The Crater of Maragua is one of Bolivia's most extraordinary landscapes — a near-perfectly circular depression eight kilometres across, ringed by steep mountains and floored with green fields, scattered villages, and a snaking river. Geologists have argued for decades over whether it is a true impact crater or the result of a collapsed anticline; either way, the view from the rim is unforgettable.
The classic two-day hike begins at the Chapel of Chataquila on the mountain rim, descends the old Inca trail to Chaunaca (about two hours), then continues into the crater itself (another three and a half hours), where a small hostel takes in hikers. The next day continues to Potolo village (five hours), passing the dinosaur tracks at Niñumayu on the way. Several agencies in Sucre — Condor Trekkers being the best — run guided three-day trips combining the hike with visits to Jalq'a weaving communities. Single-day visits by 4×4 are also possible and take in the most spectacular viewpoints.