4GEON Geoparks
Colca & Andagua Volcano Valley UNESCO Global Geopark, Peru
The Fourth Annual 4GEON Meeting in Planning
Colca & Andagua2025-02-10Thanks to Abraham Caceres Cabana and others from Colca y Volcanes de Andagua UNESCO Global Geopark, with support from the Czech 4GEON team members, we are pleased to announce the fourth annual meeting of the 4GEON project which will take place this coming September 2025. Again, we will be able to share knowledge, discuss the objectives and outcomes of the project, visit sites, assess their interpretation, meet local people, and support the involvement of schools in geopark activities. See you in the region of Colca and Andagua, Peru! Download
Explore the Breathtaking Colca & Andagua Geopark in Peru
Colca & Andagua2025-01-19Step into a land of extraordinary beauty and geological wonders at the Colca & Andagua Geopark in Peru! Nestled in the Andes, this UNESCO-recognized geopark combines stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and an incredible story of Earth’s history.
What Makes Colca & Andagua Unique? The Geopark is home to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, carved by the Colca River over millions of years. Marvel at its sheer cliffs and watch the majestic Andean condors soar overhead. Nearby, the Valley of the Volcanoes in Andagua features over 80 small volcanic cones that create a surreal and otherworldly landscape.
Shaped by Fire and Water This region is a living testament to the forces of nature. From volcanic eruptions to river erosion, the Colca & Andagua Geopark showcases the dynamic processes that have shaped the Earth over millions of years. It’s a geological paradise where you can witness volcanic craters, hot springs, and glacial valleys.
Biodiversity and Culture in Harmony The Geopark is not just about landscapes; it’s a thriving ecosystem rich with unique plants and wildlife. It’s also a cultural treasure, home to the Indigenous communities of the Collagua and Cabana peoples, who have preserved their traditions for centuries. The ancient agricultural terraces in Colca Canyon are a testament to their ingenuity and harmony with the environment.
Adventure Awaits Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the stunning views, Colca & Andagua offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to visit the charming towns of the region, where you can enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine and warm hospitality.
(Photos by: Global Geoparks Network)
The Great Story of Chuño
geocourseColca & Andagua2024-02-02Chuño is a traditional freeze-dried potato which plays a significant role in Quechua and Aymara communities of Bolivia and Peru, dating back to before the time of the Inca Empire in the 13th century. Both natural aspects, such as local geology or minerals present in the local soil, and cultural aspects such as legends, traditions or spiritual meanings are being investigated to prepare a new captivating narration.
Painting and writing challenge in Peru
geocontestColca & Andagua2023-12-22Painting challenges on abiotic, biotic and cultural geopark resources and students participated on writing essays on the topic of Colca y Volcanes de Andagua UGGp. The events were paired with workshops and educational activities.
Crop planting wisdom shared across generations in Peru
geobusgeocourseColca & Andagua2023-12-03Various school field trips in the Global Geopark Colca y Volcanes de Andagua involving meetings with elders from the local community explaining how to plant local crops took place throughout the year paired with educational excursions to various geosites.
Waste recycling workshop in Peru.
geocourseColca & Andagua2023-10-03As an expression of social responsibility within the framework of education for responsible behavior in the 4GEON project, school children in Andagua participated in waste recycling arranged by Abraham Caceres Cabana, Global Geopark Colca y Volcanes de Andagua, Peru.
School Events promoting 4GEON in Peru
geocourseColca & Andagua2023-09-11In the territory of the Colca Global Geopark and the Valley of Volcanoes, Peru, various school events took place in 2023, aimed at promoting the 4GEON project and its mission. The activity was coordinated by the team member Abraham Caceres Cabana.
Colca Geopark & Andagua Volcano progress presentation
Colca & Andagua2023-08-08Education, publicity and involvement of various actors in 4GEON project activities reported. And warm greetings from Peru! Download
Online lectures on geopark-related topics in Peru
geocourseColca & Andagua2023-07-22Online lectures took place in Colca y Volcanes de Andagua UGGp, Peru. 4GEON mission, activities as well as other geopark-related topics were presented and discussed.
New Environmental Team at Colca and Andagua Volcanoes Global Geopark
Colca & Andagua2023-05-13The environmental team of the Colca and Andagua Volcanoes Global Geopark was created, the picture shows the event with the mayor and the municipality. Reported by Abraham Caceres Cabana.
The Colca and Volcanoes of Andagua UGGp was designated in 2019 and it covers an area of 6,582.43 km 2 situated in southern Peru. The highly complex geological history of this area is reflected in its exceptional geoheritage, recognized by Peruvian geologists and foreign researchers who made it known to the world. Among the most outstanding features belong more than twenty-five volcanic cones, as well as 100 km long and 3 km deep Colca Canyon, one of deepest in the world.
The geopark has 119 geosites, five of them have been assigned as sites of international value (Colca Canyon; El Mismi - Headwaters of the Amazon River; Andagua Volcanoes Valley; Mamacocha lagoon resurgent aquifer; Neotectonic trench El Trigal fault). The work of the Polish experts contributed substantially to the geopark’s Earth heritage description. It includes the geopark’s landscape and the human modifications and adaptations for coexisting with the phenomena of this territory (glaciers, volcanoes, rivers, and mountains), a so-called cultural landscape, which interrelates humans, nature, and its landscape, giving it a cultural identity.