The cloud forests of this picturesque park, along with stunning lakes and volcanic activity, create an otherworldly setting in the heart of the coffee region.
Los Nevados National Natural Park consists of green mountainous terrain that runs through the clouds. Its many trails wind between the wax palm trees and hot springs of this volcanic landscape in the midst of Colombia’s iconic coffee region. Organize a guided tour for your entrance to the park and hiking through the clouds.
The national park was created to contribute to the conservation of ecosystems that are important worldwide. These include three of the glaciers left in the country, Andean wetlands, Andean forests and páramos, which are high altitude ecosystems found in the area above the tree line but below the peaks of the Andes.
Dominating the park’s landscape is the Nevado del Ruiz volcano. This volcano is considered active before your visit to the park consult authorities such as the Colombian Geological Survey to check the volcano’s activity level.
The park’s elevation varies between 8,500 feet (2,600 meters) and 17,457 feet (5,321 meters). Temperatures range from 26 F (-3 C) and 57 F (14 C). At these heights, you’ll need to take precautions to avoid altitude sickness: drink plenty of water and allow time to acclimatize. Pack additional layers of clothing to wear in the colder weather at the tops of the peaks.
There are several different trekking routes through the park. Depending on your fitness level, choose from 1-day hikes to multiday adventures. Your route may take you through river canyons and past beautiful lakes, leading to views of snow-capped mountains.
Nevados National Natural Park is in the Cordillera Central part of the Andes, in the center of Colombia’s famed coffee region. It stands between the cities of Medellín and Bogotá. While in this part of the country, make sure to visit neighboring cities such as Pereira, Armenia and Manizales.
