Cross the central Andes on a private, guided three-day trek from Cocora Valley to the 4,400 m summit of Cerro Chispas, sleeping in traditional farms and moving through cloud forest and páramo.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices the páramo as you step from a traditional farm into air that feels both thin and sharp. The first day walks you out of Cocora Valley across rolling Andean meadows and romerales, climbing toward moorland at roughly 3,600 m. By the second day the trail pushes higher — the ascent to Cerro Chispas reaches 4,400 m — where wind and sky trade places and the summit opens a wide, glacial-feeling panorama.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days (approx. 6–8 hours hiking per day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for hikers with strong aerobic fitness and prior multi-day trekking experience; ability to walk 15+ km and handle sustained climbs at altitude.
Wildlife
History
The park straddles former volcanic complexes of the central Cordillera and has been shaped by indigenous Andean land use and later colonist agriculture around Salento.
Conservation
Los Nevados is protected for its fragile páramo ecosystems; stick to trails, avoid disturbing frailejones and follow guide directions to minimize erosion and habitat impact.
Reserve your spot on the 3 Days Private Tour Crossing the Andes Mountains today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before the summit
Spend an extra day in Salento or keep a slow pace on day one to reduce altitude sickness risk; hydrate and eat carbohydrate-rich meals.
Layer for rapid weather shifts
Bring insulating mid-layers and a waterproof shell — temperatures swing widely between sun and wind at high elevation.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good traction are necessary for muddy páramo and rocky ascents.
Protect against strong UV
High-elevation sun is intense; use SPF 50+, lip protection and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction on wet páramo and rocky trails.
Insulating mid-layer and shell
Warmth for cold nights and protection from wind-driven rain.
Hydration system (2–3 L)
Maintain hydration at altitude and during long climbs.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+)
High-elevation UV is stronger and can burn quickly.