Volcano, noun: ‘A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust through which molten rock, ash, and gases are released, often forming a mountain or hill built up by repeated eruptions over time.’
Since the dawn of humanity, we have looked upon volcanoes with awe. More than just an opening in the Earth’s crust – but gateways to the underworld or home to the Gods themselves. Eruptions more than release of molten rock, ash and gas – but an act of divine will. Ancient cultures wove these sacred mountains into myths, rituals and oral traditions, driven by both fear and inspiration. Across continents, these forces of nature shaped landscapes and civilisations, leaving lasting impressions on both geography and belief systems.
Yet volcanoes are not solely agents of destruction. Their eruptions enrich the land with fertile minerals, enabling life to flourish in their wake. Lifetimes later, they continue to exert a magnetic pull, fascinating those who seek a deeper connection with the Earth in its most raw and elemental state.
When a journey has a purpose it leaves a bigger imprint. A purpose of discovery and understanding brings a trip to life. And a volcanology workshop brings you closer to the home of the Gods, through a scientific lens. We go beyond admiration, and into education and practice.
The Argentine Puna is a vast highland region found in Northwest Argentina, bordering Chile and Bolivia. Often described as ‘otherworldly’ – its landscapes are so expansive and so striking that it is easy to question whether you are still on Earth at all. Yet despite the extremes you find out here with high altitudes and low temperatures, the Puna is home to a rich biodiversity adapted to these conditions. It becomes the perfect location to listen to the stories of ancient geological processes told by volcanoes. Journey to this captivating landscape for your workshop; it becomes the world’s most inspiring classroom.
Guided by volcanologists with more than fifteen years’ experience studying this remarkable terrain, you will travel by expedition style 4×4 vehicles deep into the landscape itself. From close up views of ancient lava flows to summiting Antofagasta, each day offers a deeper understanding of the land. Evenings are spent in thoughtful discussion, with lectures that reveal the science and stories behind these powerful environments.
For those who prefer to simply admire these living and breathing mountains though, our planet offers a remarkable array. From iconic pieces of artwork such as ‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa’, now so famous it appears on greeting cards in your local post office. Japanese artist Katsushi Hokusai created a whole collection of artwork titled ‘Thirty Six Views of Mount Fuji’ in the early nineteenth century to honour the spiritual significance this volcano held. To the infamous Vesuvius, known for the destruction of Pompeii in 79AD over in Italy, a stark reminder of the enduring power of the natural world.
Returning to South America, as you travel beyond the Andes, through the Amazon and into Central America, volcanoes come to define the landscape in certain regions. Nicaragua is home to over 40 volcanoes. Our Product and Impact Director Jarrod recently returned from a trip there, with a line from his postcard home ‘Forged by fire’ perfectly describing the intrinsic relationship between the people and their volcanic landscape: “Volcanoes are our past, our present and our future”.
Whether it’s science or culture that draws you into this eternal fascination, get in touch with our team to discover the beauty of volcanoes.
