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Los Nevados National Natural Park wilderness guide
National Natural Park · Colombia

Los Nevados National Natural Park

Los Nevados National Natural Park offers a breathtaking array of volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and outdoor recreation opportunities, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

National Natural Park144,0644+ Trails

Designation

National Natural Park

Total Wilderness Area

144,064

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Los Nevados National Natural Park

Los Nevados National Natural Park offers a breathtaking array of volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and outdoor recreation opportunities, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Los Nevados National Natural Park is a vast protected area situated in the heart of the Colombian Andes, primarily in the departments of Caldas, Quindío, Risaralda, and Tolima. Covering an area characterized by high-altitude ecosystems, it is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, including the towering Nevado del Ruiz volcano. The park has distinct páramo ecosystems, which are home to unique species such as the Andean condor and spectacled bear. Historically, the region has been significant for indigenous communities and has played a pivotal role in Colombia's coffee and agriculture development. Visitors to Los Nevados can indulge in a variety of activities such as hiking its challenging trails, exploring the volcanic terrains, and soaking in hot springs. Key landmarks include the Ruiz, Tolima, and Quindío peaks, which offer awe-inspiring vistas. The park’s appeal lies in its rugged beauty, rich biodiversity, and the adventure of exploration.

Field Guide · National Natural Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Los Nevados National Natural Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

A Journey Through Los Nevados★ 8.8⌖ 9 miHiking
Los Nevados National Park

A Journey Through Los Nevados

Explore Los Nevados National Park featuring Nevado del Ruiz. Experience hiking through cloud forests to volcanic peaks. Suitable for well-prepared adventurers due to challenging conditions. Best visited in dry months.

Towering Palms & Majestic Trails: Cocora Valley★ 8.8⌖ 22 miHiking
Cocora Valley Anticlockwise Trail Head

Towering Palms & Majestic Trails: Cocora Valley

Explore the Cocora Valley Anticlockwise Trail Head, known for soaring wax palms and diverse wildlife. Accessible via a 25-minute drive from Salento, this area in Los Nevados National Park offers hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Get ready for scenic adventures in a lush environment.

Magical Palms of Valle de Cocora★ 9.2⌖ 22 miHiking
Valle de Cocora

Magical Palms of Valle de Cocora

Explore the Valle de Cocora, located near Salento, Quindío. This moderately challenging area features towering wax palms and diverse wildlife. It's perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and birding. Best visited from December to March.

Waterfall Adventures in Las Campanas Stream★ 7.8⌖ 87 miSwimming
Las Campanas Stream

Waterfall Adventures in Las Campanas Stream

Explore Las Campanas Stream in Envigado, Antioquia. Enjoy swimming and hiking with scenic views of the waterfall. Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers, this serene location offers a tranquil escape. Visit during the dry season for clearer waters and a refreshing dip.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Aburrá Valley★ 7.8⌖ 95 miHiking
Aburrá Valley

Discover the Natural Beauty of Aburrá Valley

Explore the stunning Aburrá Valley in Antioquia, Colombia. This hiking destination offers breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and activities like bird watching and zip-lining. Accessible from Medellín, it's popular year-round with adventure seekers.

Waterfall Wonders: Cascada La Chorrera★ 8.6⌖ 95 miHiking
Cascada La Chorrera

Waterfall Wonders: Cascada La Chorrera

Explore Colombia's tallest waterfall, Cascada La Chorrera, a 6 km round-trip hike near Choachí. Enjoy the lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and stunning views. Moderate in difficulty with additional stops at El Chiflon, ideal for adventure seekers and birdwatchers.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Nevado del Ruiz, an active stratovolcano offering magnificent views✦ Unique páramo ecosystems teeming with rare flora and fauna✦ Hot springs providing relaxation in the midst of volcanic landscapes✦ The crater lakes on Nevado del Tolima, a stunning natural feature
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Los Nevados National Natural Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Los Nevados National Natural Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Los Nevados National Natural Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Los Nevados National Natural Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Los Nevados National Natural Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Los Nevados National Natural Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Los Nevados National Natural Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits are required for certain activities, with entry fees applicable.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Los Nevados National Natural Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Los Nevados National Natural Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Manizales, Caldas
⌖ 18.9 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Manizales, Caldas

Manizales is a dynamic city in Colombia's Coffee Cultural Landscape, ideal for hiking the Andes, birdwatching and exploring coffee traditions. With dramatic landscapes and welcoming locals, it's a hidden gem for adventurers.

December to MarchExplore Town
Armenia, Quindío
⌖ 35.9 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Armenia, Quindío

Armenia, Quindío is the vibrant heart of Colombia’s coffee region, offering amazing hiking, biking, and wildlife watching opportunities amid stunning mountains and iconic wax palm forests.

December to March (dry season)Explore Town
⌖ 27.7 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Pereira, Risaralda

Pereira is a lively Andean city surrounded by cloud forests, coffee farms, and protected parks. Ideal for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, it offers rich culture and easy access to some of Colombia’s most stunning natural landscapes.

December to MarchExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Los Nevados National Natural Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.