This trip had been CANCELLED

The Irumide field trip will develop a composite cross section across this fold and thrust belt that defines a part of the SE margin of the Congo craton. Commencing in Mansa, the trip starts with the volcanics and granites of the Bangweulu block, one of several components of the Paleoproterozoic Congo craton. It will then examine the stratigraphy and structure of the unconformably overlying sediments of the Muva Supergroup. It will trace these sediments into the Late Mesoproterozoic deformation seen in the foreland region of the dramatic, NW vergent, Shiwa Ngandu fold belt. Turning south, it will follow along strike the upright structures and huge late-tectonic granite massifs of the Irumide belt before viewing the SE vergent stuctures of the internal zones exposed east of Mkushi.

Several controversies bubble gently around this little studied orogenic belt. Notably the tectonic setting of the Bangweulu Block basement of volcanics and granites; the nature of the Muva cratonic basin, the depositional environment of its quartz rich sediments and its subsidence driving mechanism; the role and implications of the recycled late-orogenic Irumide granite bodies; the geodynamics of the Irumide deformation and metamorphism; and the nature of post-Irumide, cobble conglomerates, and epirogenic deformation. All of which provide room for new contributions to this little studied area.

The trip will involve long drives in 4x4 vehicles over the high plateau of Africa. The large distances between key outcrops will allow time for discussion of the evolution of this unique ‘rough plateau’ and its marginal rifts. Accommodation will be in lodges of variable quality and interest. Historical highlights along the way are the memorial to Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck at the strategic Chambeshi Bridge and the “Africa House” at Shiwa Ngandu. The natural rock formations of the Mutinondo Wilderness camp will also be memorable. The timing of the trip coincides with the unique “early spring” russet colours of the Miombo woodland, characteristic of this high plateau region.

Field Trip Leaders: Mike Daly, in collaboration with the Geological Survey Department of Zambia.
Start/end: Lusaka Airport, Zambia
Departs: 03:05PM
Date: 7 days, Saturday 20th – Friday 26th August 2016                
Price: USD 6600 per person sharing with no single supplement

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