Field Guide for a Complete Cross-Section of the Central Andes Along Main Roads

This guide presents seven itineraries to investigate the geology of the Central Andes, which can be done in seven days of field work along main roads in northern Argentina and Chile. A total of 32 field stops are organized in a complete cross-section that cuts over 600 km of the mountain range, from the Subandean Zone and Eastern Cordillera, between latitudes 24°–23° 20ʹ (Purmamarca–Quebrada de Humahuaca), to the Coastal Cordillera, between latitudes 22° 10ʹ–20° 17ʹ (Tocopilla–Iquique), passing through the domains of North Puna, Western Cordillera, Modern Volcanic Arc, Cordillera de la Sal and Cordillera Domeyko. The proposed transect exhibits diverse structural, morphotectonic, stratigraphic, volcanic and sedimentary features of the magnificent Andean mountain range, which is the main example of a non-collisional orogen in the world. The geological features mentioned in this guide are widely documented and contextualized here according to recent bibliography. The stops were selected from a broader field trip guide, part of the Geology of the Central Andes course, held during four years by the Geosciences Institute of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (BR), with groups with up to 50 people, so that the feasibility of the route with large bus was properly tested and is assured. Additionally, travel logistics tips, based on our experience, are provided along this guide.