Laguna del Carbon is one of the most beautiful lakes in Argentina. It holds the distinction of being the lowest point at the southern and western hemispheres at 105 meters (344 ft). It is the seventh lowest point on the planet.
Location
This endorheic salt lake is at the Santa Cruz Province in Argentina. This is at the Gran Bajo de San Julian (Great San Julian Depression). It is 54 km off Puerto San Julian.
What to See
The waters of the lake are very clear and pure. Standing on the shore, the waters offer a nice complement to the brown rugged mountains. During the afternoon, the resplendent blue skies will be apparent.
During different times of the day, the skies around the lake change hues. In the afternoon, the skies turn golden brown. From afar, Laguna del Carbon looks splendid with the mountains. Several dinosaur fossils have been unearthed in the area. As an endorheic lake, it means the site retains the water.
History
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Tehuelches resided in the Santa Cruz Province. In 1520, Magellan came to what is now called the San Julian Bay. Martin de Alcazaba came to the site. He ventured to the River Chico which he christened the Gallegos River. In 1578, Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa was sent by Spain to fortify the place as it was being attacked by the British privateers.
By the middle of the 18th century, there was already a Jesuit presence in the area. In 1776, the Viceroyalty of the Rio de la Plata was established.
It was eventually placed under the rulership of Buenos Aires. From 1825 and 1836, numerous explorations were conducted in the area. Among those that explored the site was the famous scientist Charles Darwin in 1834.
Cost
You can view the lake for free. There are some tours of Argentinian tourist spots that start at 500 USD. The costs will also depend on what sites you will visit.
Other Info
The maximum length of the lake is 5 km (3.1 mi). its width varies; at its widest it is 2 km (1.2 mi). The surface area is 9 km2 (3.5 sq mi), while the surface elevation is -105 m (-344.5 ft).
The Laguna del Carbon is usually not the place people think of when they visit Argentina. But it is actually a scenic spot. The beautiful views around the lake makes it a fine destination for those who love beautiful scenery.
