Laguna Azul Provincial Reserve (Law 2828 of 2005, about 60 ha) protects a lagoon inside the crater of a dormant volcano in the Pali Aike volcanic field, near the Strait of Magellan. According to SiFAP, the last eruptions took place a little under 10,000 years ago.
Facts
- The lagoon is about 560 m across, according to SiFAP.
- Its color comes from the absence of suspended sediment.
- The crater rim is about 200 m above sea level and the water lies below 140 m: there are steep walls and basalt cliffs.
- To the east there is a smaller, dry secondary crater.
Getting there
It's 62 km southwest of Río Gallegos, heading south on RN 3. The province has an official audio guide starting at the Tourism Office, about 65 km and 2 hours long, with optional stops on the roads to Punta Loyola and Cabo Vírgenes. Access and opening hours: check before you travel at Turismo Santa Cruz – Audioguía Río Gallegos a Laguna Azul.
Tips
- It's very windy on the crater rim: take care near the cliffs.
- Bring warm clothing and water; we can't confirm any services in the reserve.
