Nevado del Tolima is a demanding high-mountain expedition for those looking to experience the Colombian Andes at altitude. The journey follows a progressive ascent through changing mountain environments, leading towards the imposing volcanic massif of Nevado del Tolima. Along the way, long trekking days, steep terrain and changing conditions become part of the experience, while the summit journey offers a deeper sense of challenge, achievement and connection with the mountains
TOTAL DISTANCE
60 km
MINIMUM ALTITUDE
2,400 m a.s.l
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE
5.220 m a.s.l
DIFFICULTY
High
DURATION
4 days / 3 nights
ITINERARIO
4 days of ascent towards a 5,220-meter volcano, crossing some of Colombia’s most impressive high-mountain landscapes.
Cocora Valley – Ascent to a rural farm in the Páramo de Romerales
aprox. 20 km
2.400 – 3.750 m a.s.l
We begin our day in Salento with a delicious breakfast before heading to the majestic Cocora Valley, home to the iconic wax palm, Colombia’s national tree. From there, our hike starts through the San José River canyon, entering the enchanting cloud forest and crossing several hanging bridges over the crystal-clear waters that flow down from the mountains and supply water to the Quindío region.
As we ascend, the landscape transforms: the Andean forest gives way to the sub-páramo ecosystem, where vegetation becomes lower and the first frailejones appear. At the end of the day, we arrive at La Playa farm, located at 3,750 meters above sea level, where we will enjoy a well-deserved dinner and spend the night
Trekking to base camp
7 km
3.750 – 4.500 m a.s.l
After breakfast, we continue hiking 7 km toward the Arenales area, where we will set up camp and have a technical briefing on the use of mountaineering equipment.
Summit attempt – Nevado del Tolima Volcano
aprox. 15 km
3.750 – 5.220 m a.s.l
After a well-earned rest, we prepare for the most challenging stage of the expedition. Around 2:00 a.m., we begin our ascent toward the summit. During this journey, we will face three main sections: a steep sandy slope that serves as a transition between the super-páramo ecosystem and the glacial moraine, followed by rocky terrain. In the final stage, upon reaching the glacier’s edge, we will put on the necessary gear to climb the last 200 meters of elevation gain to reach the summit, where we will enjoy spectacular sunrise views before beginning our descent back to the farm for our final night.
Descent to Cocora Valley and return to Salento
20 km
2.400 – 3.750 m a.s.l
After an early breakfast at the farm, we begin our descent. The route takes us back through the páramo, descending into the cloud forest and ending in the impressive Cocora Valley. We then return to Salento, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch. With this, we conclude our tour, filled with unforgettable experiences.
INCLUDES
Professional guiding Full meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners) Hydration and snacks Transportation Luggage storage service Medical assistance insurance Entrance fees and permits for protected areas Equipment carrying service Mules Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag) Mountaineering equipment (crampons, helmet, ice axe, and harness)
RECOMMENDATIONS
Thermal clothing and a change of clothes
Hat and gloves and a change of clothes
Waterproof jacket
Sun protection
Hydration
Adequate physical fitness
Trekking boots
GALLERY
Starting from
$2.300.000 COP
per person Conscious experiences, small groups, a deeper connection with the mountains. (The price may vary depending on the number of participants.)