Curiquinca facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Curiquinca
Curiquinca as seen from the NNW.
Highest point
Elevation	5,722 m (18,773 ft)
Geography
Location	Chile
Parent range	Andes
Geology
Mountain type	Stratovolcano

Curiquinca is a tall volcano that sits right on the border between Bolivia and Chile. It is a type of volcano known as a stratovolcano. This means it has a classic cone shape, built up over time by many layers of hardened lava, ash, and volcanic rocks from past eruptions.

Curiquinca is located just east of another volcano called Cerro Colorado. It is also northeast of volcán Escalante (El Apagado). All these volcanoes are considered part of a larger group known as the Sairecabur volcanic group.

What is a Stratovolcano?

A stratovolcano is also known as a composite volcano. These volcanoes are usually very tall and have steep slopes. They are formed by many eruptions over thousands of years. Each eruption adds new layers of lava, ash, and rock, making the volcano grow bigger. The lava from stratovolcanoes is often thick and sticky. This type of lava does not flow very far, which helps build the steep sides of the volcano.

Where is Curiquinca Located?

Curiquinca is found in the Andes mountain range. This mountain range stretches along the western side of South America. The volcano's unique position means it is shared by two countries. The area around Curiquinca is very dry and high up. It is part of the Atacama Desert region, one of the driest places on Earth.

Sulfur Mines Near Curiquinca

Near Curiquinca, you can see a light-colored area. This area is a large deposit of sulfur. Sulfur is a chemical element that can be found near volcanoes. In the past, there were sulfur mines here. On the Chilean side, the mine was called "Azufrera El Apagado." On the Bolivian side, it was called "Azufrera Rosita." Both of these mines are now closed and abandoned.

Learn More

• For more information about Curiquinca for kids in Spanish, you can visit: Curiquinca para niños