Los Nevados National Natural Park protects a high-altitude landscape of volcanoes, glacial lakes and paramo, the cool, misty grassland of the northern Andes. Its peaks include Nevado del Ruiz, Nevado del Tolima and Nevado Santa Isabel. The park sits above Salento and the coffee region, and offers a very different environment from the warm valleys below. This two-day tour focuses on frailejones, the furry-leaved plants that characterize the paramo. These plants grow slowly, store water and play a crucial part in regional water supply. Walking among them, with the peaks behind, is a striking experience.
The journey
Expect a guide, transport to the trailhead and walking at high altitude. The air is thin and cold, so acclimatization is important. Spending a night in the area helps your body adjust. The scenery changes from forest to open paramo, with lakes, rock formations and views of the volcanoes.
Preparation
Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sun protection and sturdy boots. Weather changes fast, and temperatures can fall below freezing. Be honest about your fitness level and any health issues. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so drink water, go slowly and tell your guide if you feel unwell. Access to specific areas can change because of volcanic activity or weather, so confirm the itinerary when you book.
Planning
This is a more demanding trip than the valley hikes, and it requires a day or two without other plans. It suits experienced hikers or active visitors who want a challenge. Less strenuous alternatives include the Cocora loop and the hot springs at Santa Rosa. Because the trip takes you into protected land, follow park rules, stay on trails and do not touch the frailejones, which are fragile. Check our best-time guide for the driest months, which give the best chance of clear views of the peaks.
Altitude and safety
At high elevations the air holds less oxygen, and symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. The best prevention is gradual ascent, hydration and rest. If symptoms worsen, descend. Experienced guides monitor their groups and adapt plans, and they carry communication equipment for emergencies. Weather in the park can shift in minutes, from sun to freezing rain, so waterproof layers are non-negotiable. Take good care of your feet, and bring a spare pair of dry socks.
Protecting the paramo
The high Andean grasslands act as sponges, capturing mist and releasing water that supplies cities downstream. Trampling and fires damage them, so stay on the path, carry out all waste and avoid touching plants. The frailejones grow only a few centimeters per year, so a large specimen may be centuries old. Photography is rewarded here, particularly at dawn, when mist lifts from the lakes. Check the status of park access with your operator, because volcanic activity and weather can change what is allowed.
For those who prefer a gentler look at the high country, a day hike near the valley or a visit to the hot springs gives a taste without the demands of an overnight stay. Start acclimatizing before the trip by spending a night or two in Salento, and avoid heavy meals and alcohol the evening before you go up.
What to expect
The experience
A two-day guided trip into Los Nevados National Natural Park to see frailejones and volcanic landscapes.
Best time
The drier months give clearer views, with early starts in any season.
How long
Two days.
Tips
Pack warm layers, sun protection and sturdy boots, and take altitude seriously.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit, adventurous travelers wanting high Andean scenery.
- Families
- Not suited to young children because of altitude and cold.
- Couples
- A shared challenge with big views.
- Pair with
- Hot springs at Santa Rosa afterward.
- Time needed
- Two days.
Good questions
Is altitude a problem?+
It can be. Go slowly, drink water and tell your guide about symptoms.
What is a frailejon?+
A paramo plant with thick, furry leaves, found in the high Andes.
How cold does it get?+
Temperatures can be near or below freezing, especially at night.
Can the itinerary change?+
Yes, weather or volcanic activity can change access. Confirm when you book.
Do I need to be very fit?+
Reasonable fitness helps because of the altitude.
