“Ever wonder what secrets lie hidden beneath our feet?” I ask, gesturing towards the unassuming hillside before us. Today’s adventure takes us to the Cavernas del Viejo Volcán. This site is a window into Patagonia’s ancient past.
Cavernas del Viejo Volcán lies in Parque Cerro Leones. It is a small private park on the eastern side of Dina Huapi. Cerro Leones is the name of the extinct and mostly eroded volcano. The area holds three caves at different elevations. Our tour follows a trail from one cave to the next. It ends at the summit offering stunning views. After our exploration, hot chocolate awaits at the hazienda.
Imagine this volcano, Cerro Leones, thousands of years ago. It was active and molten rock flowed. Over time, the volcano became silent. The elements sculpted the landscape we see today.
The caves of Cavernas del Viejo Volcán have sheltered life for 8,000 years. Early inhabitants left behind artifacts and paintings. While time has faded these paintings they are still visible. They offer a glimpse into the lives of those who came before.
Francisco Pascasio Moreno discovered this place. He was a famous explorer. The natives called the cave Tequel-Malal. Moreno renamed it Cueva Moreno. He found mummified bodies here. They were arranged as in a cemetery. Moreno moved the findings to his museum in La Plata.
The first cave served as a workshop and kitchen for the Tehuelches. The second cave was their sleeping quarters. The guides explain that women and children slept deep inside. Men guarded the entrance against puma attacks. They kept a watchful eye out. This second cave later became a cemetery.
The third cave is an adventure. We will need helmets and headlamps. The entrance is wide but quickly narrows. We will crawl for a few meters. Beyond the crawl lies a passage. This passage leads to a small lake at the end of the 130-meter-long cave.
During our 2.5-hour tour, you will feel as though you’re traveling through time. Our guide shares the history, culture, and geology. They also share details about the local plants and animals.
After exploring the caves, we’ll ascend to the summit. Bridges and walkways guide us. A 360-degree view awaits. The vast Patagonian landscape stretches before us.
The Cavernas del Viejo Volcán offers more than just caves. It offers a connection to the past. It is a place where you can feel the echoes of ancient lives and the power of nature. Take a moment to appreciate the history and beauty around you. This is a place where stories are etched in stone.