Climb into high paramo and stand above a green-hued mountain lake, then warm up with a chef-prepared lunch at Refugio El Cisne. This full-day outing mixes raw Andean scenery, fragile wetlands and practical high-altitude logistics.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The air thins as the road climbs toward the green mirror at 4,400 meters. Wind scours the paramo, tussock grasses bow and a wooden viewpoint gives a sudden, wide look at Laguna Verde — an algae-tinted lake rimmed by peat and volcanic scree. Guides shepherd small groups along ridgelines where the horizon is a cut edge between cloud and volcanic peaks, and the day finishes at Refugio El Cisne with a chef-prepared high-altitude lunch that feels earned.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and basic hiking endurance; prior moderate-altitude experience helpful.
Wildlife
History
The paramo has long been used by indigenous groups and campesinos for water collection and grazing; volcanic activity sculpted the basin that holds Laguna Verde.
Conservation
Páramo is a fragile water-capturing ecosystem—stay on trails, avoid disturbing vegetation, and pack out all trash to protect local water sources.
Reserve your spot on the Laguna Verde Pass today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize first
Spend a day or two in Pereira (1,400 m) or a mid-elevation town to reduce altitude sickness risk before ascending to 4,400 m.
Layer for wind and sun
Temperatures swing quickly—use a breathable base, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof shell; include sun protection for high-UV exposure.
Watch footing on peat and scree
Trail sections can be wet and unstable; choose boots with good traction and test each step on boggy ground.
Hydrate and pace
Drink water regularly and move deliberately — steep sections at altitude fatigue faster than expected.
Waterproof hiking boots
Stable, waterproof boots help on peat, scree and wet trail sections.
Insulating mid-layer
Warm fleece or light down to counter cold winds at high elevation.
Water and electrolytes
Bring at least 1.5–2 liters to stay hydrated in thin air and dry conditions.
Rain shell and pack cover
Quick storms are common—keep clothing and kit dry with a waterproof shell and cover.