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Azufral Volcano
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Azufral Volcano is an imposing stratovolcano located in the Nariño department of southwestern Colombia. It reaches an elevation of 4,070 meters and is particularly famous for its impressive summit caldera, which measures about three kilometers in diameter. Inside this caldera lies Laguna Verde, a crater lake whose brilliant green color is caused by high concentrations of sulfur and other minerals. The volcano is part of the Andean volcanic complex and is classified as potentially active, although the last major eruptions occurred several thousand years ago. The area surrounding the volcano is dominated by the páramo ecosystem, which acts as a crucial water reservoir for the region. Hikers and scientists frequently visit Azufral for its unique geological formations and the extremophile organisms found in the lake. Protecting the volcano is a high priority due to its significance for the local drinking water supply and biological diversity.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Parroquia Santiago Apóstol · Capilla de La Inmaculada · Mercado de Mallama
- Nearby: Ipiales (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 95 | 94 | 117 | 133 | 100 | 56 | 36 | 23 | 36 | 80 | 103 | 95 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to this semi-dormant volcano is typically via local roads in southern Colombia that lead directly to the main trailheads.
Best season
The drier months of the year are generally best to ensure clear, unobstructed views of the striking green Laguna Verde within the crater.
Terrain & paths
The landscape consists of typical volcanic terrain, often featuring steep, uneven hiking paths that ascend to significant high altitudes.
What to bring
Warm layered clothing, a reliable windproof jacket, and highly sturdy hiking boots are essential for navigating the rough volcanic paths.
Parking
Visitors can usually park their vehicles at the designated ranger stations or main entrances to the nature reserve before hiking.
Safety
Due to the significant elevation, altitude sickness is a real risk; visitors must also be alert to sudden weather changes at the crater rim.
Time needed
A typical hike up to the spectacular Laguna Verde and back generally takes a full day to complete at a moderate, safe pace.
Geography
Facts
- The summit elevation of the volcano is 4,070 meters above sea level.
- The caldera has a diameter ranging from 2.5 to 3 kilometers.
- Laguna Verde is one of the most acidic crater lakes in the world.
- The volcano is located about 12 km west of the town of Túquerres.
- Fumaroles on the lakeshore indicate ongoing geothermal activity.
- The last radiometrically dated eruption occurred about 3,600 years ago.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Azufral Volcano (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Vulkan Azufral located?
In the Nariño department in southwestern Colombia.
What is Laguna Verde?
A bright green crater lake inside the volcano.
Is the volcano active?
It is considered dormant but shows hydrothermal activity.
Can you hike to the crater?
Yes, there are trails, but check for any current closures.
At what altitude is the lake located?
The lake is located at an altitude of about 3800m.
Azufral Volcano: where is it located?
Azufral Volcano is located in Colombia.
Azufral Volcano: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parroquia Santiago Apóstol, Capilla de La Inmaculada, Mercado de Mallama.
Azufral Volcano: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Azufral Volcano: why is it worth visiting?
Azufral Volcano is an imposing stratovolcano located in the Nariño department of southwestern Colombia.
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