Los Nevados National Park features many great hiking trails.

Everything you need to know about hiking in Los Nevados National Park in Colombia. Explore the unique Paramo ecosystem, walk on the glacier, climb volcanoes, experience the real Colombia's countryside, stay at the farms with local families. Read our Los Nevados National Park hiking guide, including trail description, 4-day itinerary, what to expect, tips on what to pack, and where to stay.

Have you ever heard of Los Nevados National Park? The chances are that you haven't, but in case you plan your Colombia travel itinerary, you should make sure to include this place in it.

At least in case you love hiking and want to explore this South American country from a different perspective.

Why, after hiking extensively in several countries around the world, we still think Los Nevados National Park is one of the best trekking destinations ever?

First of all, it has something to do with a wonderful location.

Los Nevados National Park lies in the coffee region in Colombia known as Zona Cafetera alias Eje Cafetero, which is centered around snow-capped volcanic peaks.

The park also features special and unique flora and fauna, and although the northern part of the park is at the moment closed for the public, and not accessible for hiking because of the volcanic activity of Nevado del Ruiz, there is still an extensive area where travelers can go and satisfy their hiking needs.

For your information, how deadly this volcano can be was proved by an eruption in 1985 that killed 22,000 people.

No matter if you are an experienced hiker or a beginner who always wanted to enjoy stunning nature first hand, Los Nevados National Park is here to reveal the beauty of the Colombian Andes.

Do you want to know more?

Then you have to read this ultimate Los Nevados National Park travel guide, which includes tips on what track to choose, tips on where to stay, what to pack, or how to stay safe.

Then, you just need to pack your backpack and come to Los Nevados National Park, this is the only part we cannot do on your behalf, even though we would love to!

This is a 4-day challenging trek at high altitude.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL NATURAL PARK

There is a reason, why Los Nevados belongs among the most visited national parks in Colombia.

What can you find here apart from the Paramo ecosystem that grows in this particular part of the Colombian Andes?

The flora includes beautiful native plants known as frailejones (Espeletia), but the scenery would not be complete without volcanic peaks, lakes, and glaciers.

We would especially emphasize here the presence of glaciers because, in the past few years, glaciers in Colombia have been receding incredibly quickly, and this trend, unfortunately, continues.

Glaciers in Los Nevados National Park and overall in the whole of Colombia are particularly vulnerable to climate changes, and scientists predicted that Colombian glaciers would melt by 2048.

Because of those pessimistic predictions, you should consider visiting the park in the near future, before all glaciers melt. Even now, glaciers are something rare to see in Colombia.

During our time in Los Nevados National Park, we climbed the Nevado Santa Isabel, one of the last tropical glaciers in the world, and our guide informed us that this particular glacier receded about 80% in the past 30 years.

This is a really crazy number and it always makes us think what we can do better to save the nature for future generations.

If the trend continues, there will be no glacier on Nevado Santa Isabel volcano in 5 to 10 years. If you want to be a more responsible traveler, read our post on how to travel sustainably.

You can find rare animals in the park such as spectacled bears, cougar, tiger cat, or mountain tapir, but they are hiding deep in the forest or far away from people, and it would be more than exceptional to spot them with your own eyes.

In the park are also many different species of birds such as indigo-winged parrot, rufous-fronted parakeet, or chestnut wood quail.

On top of that, we were incredibly lucky to spot two Andean condors (we saw more in Colca Canyon later on in Peru), the largest flying birds in the world, and several black-and-chestnut eagles.

Fauna and flora in Los Nedavos are diverse.

PARAMO ECOSYSTEM

So you've arrived in Salento, Manizales, or to another part of Colombia, for example, to Cajas National Park in Ecuador, and you hear the word Paramo all over again.

Yet, you still don't know what exactly does it mean, what should you expect to see, what is all the fuss about and why everyone in the area is so keen to show you the Paramo?

Before we start with hollow and empty phrases, we must forego that Paramo is spectacular, and if you've never seen it before, Los Nevados National Park is for sure the place, where to fall in love with this strange but beautiful mountainous vegetation.

In the official language, Paramo is the ecosystem of the regions above the continuous forest line but below the permanent snowline.

As per this definition, it is clear that the Paramo vegetation grows high in the mountains and is composed of tall grasses, shrubs, and frailejones.

Frailejones are typical high-altitude plants (that grow from 2000 to 4500 meters) who belong to the sunflower family and form the unique appearance of the Paramo ecosystem.

Frailejones are everywhere along the trail.

HOW TO GET TO LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK

There are four official access routes to Los Nevados National Park.

The majority of all visitors reach the park via the city of Manizales, Pereira, or smaller colonial town Salento that is on the other side of the valley, a gateway to the famous Cocora Valley, that is also the official entry point.

There is probably no better or worse access point. You only need to figure out the best place that fits your itinerary.

Being said that, some of the roads involve spending several hours on the bumpy drives, and by this word, we mean that you can expect a real bone-breaking journey).

Do not forget that there is no public transportation going directly to the park.

That means you will need to either book a tour, contact a private transport, or arrive in Salento, from where it is easier to take a frequent jeep to Valle de Cocora and start the trek from there.

WHERE TO STAY IN SALENTO - BEFORE TREK

We decided to start the hike in Salento and finish the trek in Manizales, that's why we will here give you tips on where to stay.

Salento is a popular tourist destination, that's why you won't have a problem finding here a hotel according to your needs and budget.

We've handpicked the three best hotels in Salento for every type of traveler.

Budget | Hospedaje Vista Hermosa Salento - Budget, yet nice and newly renovated family-run hostel is a good choice for all travelers looking for an affordable place to stay.

Mid-range | Casa de las Dos Palmas - This hotel has an authentic feel and is well-kept. It has a jacuzzi which you will surely enjoy after a long day out.

Luxury | Hotel Terasu Salento - Amazing views, private garden, modernly furnished rooms, all of that for a very reasonable price - surely the top pick in Salento.

WEATHER IN NATIONAL PARK

Los Nevados National Park is accessible all-year-round, but it is good to know that the weather is very changeable, it actually reminded us a bit of the weather on Inca Trail.

The official dry season runs between December and February, then followed by July to September.

Yes, it probably rains less, but you are still in the mountains, where rolling clouds and fog are daily bread, so it always pays off to be prepared for all weather possibilities.

The Paramo ecosystem is unpredictable, so do not expect to enjoy several completely sunny days in raw.

On the other hand, this is what makes the park so mysterious and photogenic. Do not be worried to hike in Los Nevados in the offseason, just come well-prepared.

During our trek in mid-August, we experienced a bit of everything (except for snow), and the weather made the hike both wonderful and challenging.

Weather is constantly changing in the mountains.

HIKING IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK

Los Nevados National Park is, thanks to an extensive number of hiking and trekking trails, the hikers' paradise, and the choice of the best trail for you only depends on the time you have and on your level of fitness.

Some hikes can be accomplished in one day (if you choose a one day hike, check the elevation first because of the risk of altitude sickness).

However, it is more common to spend in Los Nevados at least one night, not only to enjoy the scenery but also to connect with locals living at the farms further in the park.

Most of the hikes (usually overnight ones) can be done only with an authorized guide and after registering in the visitor's book.

It is not officially required to have the guide, although it is highly recommended, because of travelers' safety.

ENTRANCE FEE

The price to enter the park is 53 000 COP per person (usually included in the tour rate).

There are several offices scattered around the park where you'll be required to pay the entrance fee - we did our registration in Potosi on the third day of our hike.

IS ONE DAY IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK ENOUGH?

After we finished a four-day three-night trek, we would shortly say NO.

Of course, if you don't have spare time, if you are well-trained for trekking in high elevation, or if you think that getting just a quick glimpse into the Paramo ecosystem is enough, even one day is ok - better than nothing for sure.

But to get the real connection with the unique nature inside the park and to get a more intimate experience, you'll need more than a day.

ORGANIZED TOUR VERSUS HIKING WITHOUT GUIDE

If you read our blog regularly, you've already probably noticed that we are into hiking and more importantly, into independent hiking.

We usually avoid organized trekking tours whenever possible for several reasons.

We prefer to take our time, sometimes we wait for the perfect light to take a photo, take breaks, or have snacks when we want, and we also like to walk as fast (or slow) as we need at that time.

But there are places, where an organized tour is a must or at least a big help.

Los Nevados National Park is one of them.

There are many reasons why there are places where it is not allowed to walk around on your own.

Some of the reasons can be an official park's regulation, visitors' safety, or the insufficiently signposted trails. In Los Nevados National Park, it is the combination of all three reasons mentioned above.

Also, the weather can change in a second, and a sunny day can turn into a windy and foggy one with low visibility.

In this kind of weather, it is easy to lose orientation and eventually go off course.

Shortly, it is not officially compulsory to have a guide, but it is highly recommended.

When we travel, we want to enjoy our trip instead of breaking the rules and having problems, so hiring a guide was an easy choice.

Because of the exceptional combination of the Paramo ecosystem, volcanoes, glaciers, and mountains, we decided that only one day is not enough for us.

And that's why we were looking for agencies offering multi-day hikes from Salento, a must-visit place on our travel itinerary.

After thorough research, we chose Paramo Trek, a trusted company with exceptional rating on Tripadvisor, who advertised that their staff speaks Spanish and English, and they also had a wide selection of multi-day treks.

We arrived in Salento a few days before the trek, and to be honest, started to question our decision to do a four-day three-nights trek with a climb to Nevado Santa Isabel.

Why? We would use crampons and ice axes at high altitude for the first time, and we also were not that sure about the level of our fitness anymore.

Thankfully, everyone we spoke with before the trek (in Salento or Manizales) calmed us down, especially after we mentioned that we booked the tour with the Paramo Trek.

We were told we couldn't have chosen a better agency because they are the best when it comes to experience and organization.

So it cheered our mood up a bit, and we started to believe that we are in good hands and could not wait for the trip.

GET A DISCOUNT

We had a great time with Paramo Trek, a local travel agency based in Salento.

They offer a wide selection of one day or multi-day hikes in Los Nevados National Park, one-day trips in the Cocora Valley, and around Salento.

We are happy to share a special 5% discount on all their tours with our readers. Get in touch with Paramo Trek via this contact form and do not forget to mention in the email our special promo code, 'laidbacktrip'.

Allow yourself at least three or four days to explore the national park.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TREK IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK

The rule of thumb is to choose a trek according to your previous experience, the actual level of fitness, and expectations.

No experienced guide will take you to the park if he has doubts about your physical ability, a good one will always recommend you an option which will suit you well, and you will enjoy the trek much better.

If you are still in the dark and have no idea what trek to choose, do not hesitate to contact the agency, and they will gladly recommend an option for you.

It is good to know that when you base yourself in Salento, you won't be able to get into the park only in one day.

If you see a one day trip, it usually includes hiking in Valle de Cocora (stunning though) where the national tree of Colombia - wax palms - grow, and you will climb hills around, maybe visit one or two farms nearby.

This one-day trip is possible to be done on your own, and this way, you will only scratch the surface.

A two-day trek will take you to the Paramo ecosystem while during the three or four days hike you can further explore Paramillo Quindio, Nevado del Tolima, or Nevado Santa Isabel.

It is possible to get to the park in one day from Manizales, but what we see as an obstacle is the inadequate time for acclimatization.

We did a four-day three-night trek (approximately 50 km) with a long name Conquistando La Doncella Blanca Cima de Nevado Santa Isabel Trek, and we can only recommend this one.

Not only that landscape was stunning, but we also did the glacier climb that spiced up our travels, and we saw the Paramo ecosystem for the first time.

On top of that, we could also stay at the farmer's houses and could've observed how farmers in remote corners of Colombia live.

Starting in Salento will help you will acclimatization.

ACCOMMODATION IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK

There is no hotel in the proper sense of the word in Los Nevados. You can stay at farmer's houses (in very basic dormitories) who are scattered throughout the park or in the tent on the farmer's land.

The accommodation is simple, but after all day hiking, we found there everything we needed. A bed, blankets, toilet, shower (mostly cold), and warm kitchen, there were also served meals.

During our hike, we stayed at farms La Argentina and El Berlin, beautifully set family-run farms.

Here, we could feel the real connection with incredibly friendly local people, and we were glad they let us spend an afternoon and night in their home.

The last night we stayed in a place called Potosi, and because it is connected with Manizales and Pereira by road, it was more like a hostel, but amenities were surprisingly basic as well, and the vibe was less cozy and the feeling less intimate than at the other farms.

We had the accommodation arranged by Paramo Trek, so our only focus every day was to get from point A to point B, and we did not have to stress about reservations and places to stay at all.

In case you decided to travel independently, it might be possible to call and make a reservation (if the reception is available and when you'll be able to get the number).

We believe that if you show up without a reservation, there will always be a mattress or spot on the floor available.

But having accommodation booked was where we found having an organized tour helpful in particular, especially because we do not speak Spanish fluently.

Family-owned farms offer basic accommodation.

FOOD AND DRINKS IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK

All food and drinks (coffee, tea, water) were included, and to be honest, it was of better quality and taste than we've experienced in Colombia so far.

We always had breakfast and dinner in our accommodation, and we could only admire ladies running farms, how they were able to cook for ten or more people in the limited space, and in very basic kitchens.

Breakfast in the mountains usually contains scrambled eggs, arepas, cheese, or rice, and for dinner, we had rice, a piece of meat, fried bananas, and potatoes.

Hot drinks were available as well, we could ask for a coffee, tea, Aguapanela (an extremely sweet drink made from sugar cane), or tea from coca leaves, which helps travelers to tolerate the altitude better.

Can you imagine a better way how to start a day than with a delicious slice of homemade cheese? Well, after hiking in the national park, we cannot.

On the first day, the guys from Paramo Trek gave us bags with snacks (a mix of sweet and salty treats), which came particularly helpful when we needed quickly replenish energy during the trek.

Snacks were the only food we had to carry. We always had lunch on the trail that was prepared by our guides.

It is necessary to treat water, take with you a filter or water purification drops if you go on own.

Our guides had a filter and always made sure we had enough water for the whole day.

Do not underestimate it as staying hydrated is more or less the most important rule when hiking at high elevations. We always carried at least 2 liters per person per day.

In case you hike in Los Nevados on own, you would have to either arrange food at farms - we believe it should not be a problem, or you have to be prepared to carry everything in the backpack, including the cooking set.

WHAT TO PACK BEFORE THE TREK

The weather conditions in Los Nevados can be different every day. Be prepared for the hot and dry weather as well as for rain and cold.

It is always good to realize that you will carry all the equipment in the backpack, so try to pack smartly and as light as possible.

In a nutshell, you will need long and short-sleeved t-shirts, trousers, rain trousers, leggings, head torch, hat (sun hat and warm hat), gloves, sturdy hiking shoes, sneakers, socks, underwear, rain and wind-proof jacket, fleece jacket.

On top of that, bring sunglasses, sunscreen, personal hygiene, gaiters, dry clothes to wear at the farm, sleeping bag (not essential, there are blankets on farms), or cocoon, and trekking poles.

Below you can find absolute essentials we think you should have in your backpack.

Rain jacket | A proper waterproof jacket is an absolute must for this trek.
Rain Poncho | When it rains a lot, we are still convinced that no one has ever made up anything better than good old plastic rain poncho.
Hiking Socks | It is important to have at least one pair of dry hiking socks for every day to prevent blisters. We also sleep in clean socks we will use the next day on the trail, so we don't need to carry an extra pair.
Headlamp | The last day of the hike starts early, too early we would say, and you'll be walking in the dark for some time. That's why you need a good and fully charged headlamp.
Cocoon | To feel comfortable in a rental sleeping bag or under borrowed blankets (or in a hostel where we are not totally sure about hygiene), we always use silk liner.
Trekking Poles | No, hiking poles are not only for 'old people'. No matter what you think, hiking poles can help you maintain your pace, and they also save your knees.
Sunscreen | In the high altitude, the sun is even stronger than usual. We recommend you to have a good quality sunscreen with high protection (we use SPF 50).
Water Bottle | This water bottle is our all-time favorite. You will get filtered water along the trek, so the bottle is basically all you need.

We've also written an in-depth South America packing list where you will find more useful tips and advice on what to pack.

WHAT GEAR DO I NEED?

In case you arrived in Colombia just for your holiday or you are traveling long term and don't have all the equipment needed (same as we didn't), do not fall in despair.

You can borrow clothes and gear for no additional charge in the Paramo Trek office. Also, they will provide you with equipment for glacier climb.

When we traveled in Southeast Asia and did some tours, we remember that the quality of equipment borrowed (for example, bikes or snorkeling gear) was sometimes of really lousy quality.

Not here.

We had to borrow hats, rain trousers, and warm gloves, and everything was like new, and to be honest, hiking poles we all got were of the much better quality we have back at home.

As Salento is a destination famous among active travelers, it is also possible to buy equipment here, but we would also prefer rental gear.

SAFETY IN LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL PARK

Traveler's safety is taken very seriously in Paramo Trek, and the quality of equipment was only the beginning.

It was five of us in our group, and we had two guides with us (there is a rule of at least one guide per four clients). The third guide joined us the last day for the final push.

Also, when we climbed up the Santa Isabel glacier, the weather was quite bad, and at the end of the hike, the visibility was pretty low.

When we were about 50 meters below the peak, and the climb was getting more technical, our guides decided to stop here and didn't take any risks.

It was the moment when the severe weather (the visibility was terrible), fatigue from previous days, and the high altitude started to take a toll on all of us.

I believe I speak for all of us that we did not mind at all. Firstly, for all of us, it was the first experience with a glacier climb, so we were exhausted and happy that we made it so far and secondly, there were not any better views waiting for us at the top.

We appreciated this decision, although it meant we did not conquer the volcano in the proper sense of the word.

We don't take it for granted that traveler's safety goes first as sometimes.

We had a feeling that guides on some of the other tours (most likely pushed by the agency) thought that clients paid for something, and they have to provide them with the service.

Regardless of the consequences. But here, we truly liked that common sense and safety took precedence over adventure and unnecessary risk.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Making sure that your travel insurance also covers adventure sports and the highest altitude of your trek is vital.

Travel smarter and safer!

ALTITUDE

What is the most dangerous thing about hiking in Los Nevados National Park? It is for sure, the cold and foggy weather that can completely hide the trail.

Another thing you should know about before you go is the high altitude.

You should acclimate well before the hike, or at least plan the hike the way to ensure the gradual acclimatization - you will be walking most of the time above 3000 meters and higher!

The farm stays are located between 3000 - 4000 above sea level, and the top of the volcano is roughly 5000 meters!

That's why it's better to start in Salento, hike in Cocora Valley first, and then set on the journey across the national park.

And once again, stay hydrated.

Proper acclimatization is essential before the trek.

TREKKING IN LOS NEVADOS DAY BY DAY: OUR EXPERIENCE

Get inspired by the hike we did in Los Nevados National Park.

We chose the four-days three-night trek starting in Salento and ending in Manizales.

We found the itinerary great because we wanted to visit Salento as there are many things to see and do, and later in Manizales, we could take a bus to our next destination, the Tatacoa Desert.

Before traveling to Salento, we spent a day in Manizales and left our stuff in a hostel there. We knew that we are not going to need them for the trip.

Once back in Manizales, we only picked them up a few days later.

DAY 0: SALENTO

When we arrived in Salento, we had to stop by at the Paramo Trek office one day before the trek start.

It is compulsory not only to get more detailed information about the trek, but the staff in the office will also go through the checklist.

Only this way they can make sure that you have everything you need or that they have the equipment to borrow in the size you need.

We also appreciated that we could meet our guides in advance and made sure we are on the same page.

A couple of jeeps took us to the trailhead at Cocora Valley.

DAY 1: SALENTO - LA ARGENTINA

Our Day D started again early in the morning in the Paramo Trek office, where we met the other three clients, did the last equipment check, got our snacks for the whole length of the trek, and packed lunch for the first day.

After that, we walked to a nice restaurant in Salento called Brunch, where we had a hearty breakfast and got to know our partners in crime for the next four days better.

Right after breakfast, we jumped on jeeps waiting for us in front of the restaurant, and we headed to Valle de Cocora, a unique place where the national trees of Colombia, wax palms grow.

From here, we started our trek with a climb through a forest with scattered views of the valley.

After lunch, we continued our steady ascend, and after about 10 km, we reached our destination, farmhouse La Argentina at an altitude of 3450 meters.

We accommodated ourselves, had a short break, and got used to the presence of animals (cows, dogs, cats, horses, pigs, hens), literally just behind our door.

Then we decided to take a short walk to the riverbank, now without backpacks.

There we sat for a while and just looked around and listened to the silence. When we came back, we gathered around the stove and waited for a delicious dinner, and went to bed right after.

DAY 2: LA ARGENTINA - EL BERLIN

Does anyone usually bring you a hot drink to the bed right after you wake up?

Well, here, in Los Nevados, we got just that, and it was a perfect start to the day. Thanks, guys! After a typical breakfast, we were ready to set off.

From farm La Argentina, we climbed to an abandoned farm called Buenos Aires. It is a farm where the family from La Argentina used to live before, but they moved to be closer to Salento a few years ago.

From there, we continued on the ascent, and for the first time, we could admire the frailejones and the entire Paramo ecosystem.

To be honest, these incredible plants were much bigger than we expected, and then we learned, that those fragile plants grow only 1 cm per year. And some of them were up to 5 meters tall! This area is really unique, and we were so glad that we visited this place.

When we had lunch, it began to rain, but luckily, we could hide under a quickly erected 'tarp shelter' and wait for the rain to cease.

And then, finally, we started to descend and could enjoy sporadical views of Paramillo del Quindio. Because views were limited, we couldn't see Tolima Peak at this time.

The highest point we reached this day was at 4200 meters, and we slept in farm El Berlin, situated 3700 meters above sea level.

Always sleep lower than was your highest point of the day. This is the best procedure to acclimatize properly.

The second hike was also 10 km long, we arrived in El Berlin around 3 PM and had enough time to regenerate because we had a long day ahead of us.

Later, we again gathered in the kitchen, shared our stories with fellow travelers who arrived from the opposite direction and went to bed quite early.

A local farm stays in Los Nevados National Park.

DAY 3: EL BERLIN - POTOSI

The third day was the longest one when it came to distance.

After we set off, the trail led on the flat path at first, then we climbed a bit, and then we descended to the small mountain community, from where we had to climb up again to gain elevation.

After an hour or so, we emerged on a beautiful Paramo plateau, with many frailejones plants and differently colored flowers.

But another highlight, Laguna Otun, was still ahead of us.

The biggest lake in the park, which has glacier origin, lies 3900 meters above sea level, but we were overlooking it from the path at 4100 meters, which was also the highest point of the day.

We could also see Nevado Santa Isabel's south face, the volcano we were about to climb the next day.

After lunch, the walk to Potosi was an easy one, the only difficulty was our increasing weariness.

Luckily, the Potosi farm was nearby, and from now on the path led mostly downhill, we only had to register in the park office, and then, we went to a farm, where we had a very short rest ahead of us.

We spent the rest of the day in the kitchen, where we played cards with our fellow travelers and tried not to think much about the next day.

After dinner, we had a brief talk about what to expect, and what to take with us for the next day climb, and then we went to bed to enjoy only a few hours' sleep.

The biggest lake in the park which has glacier origin lies 3900 meters above sea level, but we were overlooking it from the path in 4100 meters, which was also the highest point of the day.

We could also see Nevado Santa Isabel's south face, the volcano we were about to climb on the next day.

After lunch, the walk to Potosi was an easy one, the only problem was our increasing weariness.

Luckily, the Potosi farm was nearby and mostly downhill, we only had to register in the park office and then, we went to a farm, where we had a very short rest ahead of us.

We spent the rest of the day in the kitchen, where we played cards with our fellow travelers and tried not to think much about the next day.

After dinner, we had a brief talk about what to expect, and what to take with us for the next day climb, and then we went to bed for only a few hours.

The paramo ecosystem is found in the Andes mountains.

DAY 4: POTOSI - NEVADO SANTA ISABEL - MANIZALES

The last day of the whole hike and the most anticipated (and for someone the most feared) day has come. We were woken up at 2:30 AM, had a quick breakfast, packed the gear, and jumped on the jeep.

The drive itself should've taken about 40 minutes, but we were so tired, that we didn't track the time at all.

When we arrived at a parking lot, we left some stuff in the car, and accompanied only by the lights of our head torches, started our ascend to the glacier.

It was dark, and we regularly took quick breaks to eat some snacks and to drink water.

The path to the glacier is 4 km long with a slope of 1000 meters, and considering the early hours, we still wonder anyway, how did we get to the glacier soon after dawn.

When we came to the glacier base, everything happened very quickly and efficiently. We put on crampons, gaiters, axes, helmets, and had a quick chocolate snack.

Then guides divided us into two groups, and we could set off.

Hikers in the fog on Nevado Santa Isabel.

To be honest, the climb was eventually much easier than (at least I) expected.

Nevado Santa Isabel is a perfect glacier for beginners because it is not technical, and the hardest part would probably have been the last 50 meters, but due to bad weather (we walked in the fog and cloud all the time), we did not climb this last section.

After we shortly, but intensively celebrated our success (almost) on the top in 5050 meters, we got a bar of chocolate with a personal message (ate it right away) and set off to get back.

The ascent took us about an hour, and we were down at the glacier base within another 40 minutes. Here, we took off all the gear and returned the same way to the car, which was waiting for us in the parking lot.

On the way back, we could finally admire views which were before hidden in the dark.

Clouds lifted up for a while, the sun started to shine, and we couldn't ask for a better way how to finish our four-day hike through Los Nevados National Park.

When we came back to the car, we only quickly changed into dry clothes, and our driver took us back to Manizales.

We also had lunch somewhere in the middle between Los Nevados and Manizales, the place was called La Laguna, and the trout we had here was the best we've eaten in Colombia for sure.

When we arrived in Manizales, first we stopped at the bus station, where we picked up our stuff we did not need for the trek (Paramo Trek agency sent it on our behalf from Salento to Manizales).

Then the driver dropped us off in our hostel in Manizales where we had the rest of our stuff.

It was a long and demanding day, and overall after four-day hiking in Los Nevados, we were quite tired, but couldn't stop thinking about the perfect adventure we just finished.

And although the day after we felt absolutely exhausted, we knew for sure that this was one of the best treks we have ever done, and the number one activity we did in Colombia.

For the day after the trek, plan an easy and relaxing day in Manizales. There are plenty of things to do in Manizales, so take it easy.

Our group of hikers descending Nevado Santa Isabel.

PARAMO TREK CONCLUSION

Trekking through Paramo and mountains in Los Nevados National Natural Park was one of the hardest but the most stunning at the same time we've ever done.

The diversity of this place is incredible and the combination of the trekking in high altitude, mountains, sleeping at the farms with locals, the adrenaline climb to the volcano and the perfect organization from Paramo Trek side, made those four days simply unforgettable.

From now on visiting Los Nevados National Natural Park is unquestionably on the top of our list of the best places in Colombia, although we had never expected it.

There can be only one advice from us given to you: don't hesitate and try this trek (or another one) in Los Nevados National Park, it will be something you will remember forever.

Los Nevados National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the country.

WHERE TO STAY IN MANIZALES - AFTER TREK

Manizales is a large city, but the city center is compact and provides wonderful views over the valley.

We spent a few days downtown, where we enjoyed a couple of rest days.

Below, you can find the best hotels in Manizales for every type of traveler.

Budget | Casabella Hotel - Close to the cable car station and cathedral, this hotel is a perfect choice for travelers looking for a decent, clean room for a reasonable rate.

Mid-range | Hotel Pop Art Las Colinas - Amazing stylish rooms, large beds, tasty breakfast, but also renowned coffee are the reasons why to check out this property.

Luxury | Hotel Carretero - Excellent location, professional service, spacious rooms, and delicious breakfast. We would say that this type of hotel is still pretty cheap by international standards, so if you are looking for a touch of luxury and do not want to break the bank, make sure to make your reservation asap.

PARAMO TREK INFORMATION

This post was written in collaboration with Paramo Trek. As always, all opinions are our own.

For information about the park or trails, check Paramo Trek website.

To make a reservation or ask any question you have, fill out this contact form or send them an email directly.

We are happy to share a special 5% discount on all their tours with our readers. Get in touch with Paramo Trek, and do not forget to mention in the email our special promo code, 'laidbacktrip'.