Best Volcanoes to Visit in Colombia: A Guide to Majestic Natural Wonders
Colombia, a country rich in natural beauty and geological wonders, is home to a fascinating array of volcanoes that attract adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and scientists from around the globe.
From the southern highlands to the northern peaks, Colombia’s volcanoes offer diverse experiences for all who venture their paths. Whether it’s the serene beauty of a dormant giant or the exhilarating challenge of an active peak, these volcanoes are destinations in their own right. They are nature’s amphitheaters, showcasing the dramatic interplay of elements that sculpt the Earth’s surface.
This guide aims not just to highlight the physical magnificence of these natural wonders but also explore the experiences they offer.
Galeras Volcano
Located in the Galeras Flora and Fauna Sanctuary in Nariño, the Galeras Volcano stands at 4,276 meters above sea level. It is renowned for its hiking trails and the “Vuelta al Volcan” tour, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The volcano’s proximity to Pasto makes it an accessible destination for those eager to explore its natural beauty.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal period to visit Galeras is between December and March, during the drier season, offering clearer skies and safer hiking conditions.
- How to Get There:
- By Yourself: You can reach the base of Galeras by taking a bus from Pasto towards the Galeras sanctuary. The journey is relatively short, around 30 minutes, and is quite economical.
- Tour Option: Guided tours from Pasto typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. Prices vary, but expect to pay around $50 to $100, depending on the package.
- Entrance Fee: Entry to the Galeras Flora and Fauna Sanctuary might require a nominal fee, usually less than $5, but this can fluctuate based on the specific areas accessed within the sanctuary.
El Totumo Mud Volcano
El Totumo Mud Volcano, located near Cartagena, Colombia, offers one of the most unique and intriguing tourist experiences in the region. Known for its alleged healing properties, the mud of El Totumo is rich in minerals like silica, magnesium, sulfur, and iron. Visitors can enjoy a dip in the mud, which is said to have therapeutic effects on the skin and body, including detoxification and treatment for rheumatic problems and joint inflammations. Wondering if mud baths are safe and sanitary – read on.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit El Totumo Mud Volcano is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This period offers the most pleasant weather conditions for enjoying the mud bath and the surrounding area.
- How to Get There: The mud volcano is located about 45 minutes north of Cartagena, near the town of Santa Catalina. Visitors can reach El Totumo through various means:
- By Yourself: It’s possible to hire a taxi from Cartagena, which can be cost-effective for groups, expecting to pay between $150,000 to $200,000 COP. However, the area’s remoteness makes organized tours a more convenient option for most travelers.
- Tour Option: Shared and private tours are readily available from Cartagena, with prices varying based on the package and provider. Shared tours are the most economical option and can be booked online in advance. Tour prices typically range from $25 to $50 USD per person, which often includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes additional activities or meals.
- Entrance Fee and Other Costs: The entrance fee to El Totumo is relatively minimal, often included in the price of a tour. If you’re going independently, you can expect to pay a small entrance fee at the site. Additionally, it’s customary to tip the local attendants who assist with massages and mud cleaning, usually around $1 USD per service.
- Experience: Upon arrival, visitors climb a staircase to the top of the volcano, where they can enter the mud bath. The dense mud allows you to float effortlessly, creating a weightless feeling that many find enjoyable. After the mud bath, visitors are cleaned off by local women in a nearby lagoon, which is part of the experience. Despite some visitors being skeptical about the mud’s healing claims, the unique sensation of floating in the dense mud and the overall novelty make it a memorable activity.
Visiting El Totumo Mud Volcano is certainly an adventure, blending natural wonders with local culture. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of medicinal mud or simply looking for an unusual experience, El Totumo offers a distinctive way to spend a day near Cartagena.
Also read: Best hostels in Cartagena to stay at if you love meeting new people/partying.
Puracé Volcano
The Puracé Volcano, towering at 4,646 meters, is situated in the Cauca Department. It is part of the Puracé National Natural Park, which is not only known for the volcano itself but also for thermal pools, the Valley of Statues, and the birthplace of significant rivers. Despite its challenging ascent due to volcanic activity, the area’s natural attractions make it a must-visit. Popayan, located 55 km away, serves as the gateway to this natural wonder.
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from June to August and December to February, is optimal for visiting Puracé, minimizing the chances of rain during your hike.
- How to Get There:
- By Yourself: From Popayan, take a bus towards the Puracé National Natural Park. The ride takes about 2 hours. Upon arrival, you can start the trek to the volcano’s crater.
- Tour Option: Tours from Popayan can cost between $50 to $150, often including guide services, transportation, and sometimes meals and entrance fees.
- Entrance Fee: Access to Puracé National Natural Park usually requires a fee of about $5 to $10, which contributes to the conservation of the area.
Nevado del Huila
As Colombia’s highest volcano, the Nevado del Huila reaches an impressive height of 5,750 meters. Although it is currently closed to tourism due to volcanic activity, its surrounding trails lead to stunning lagoons and viewpoints, captivating those who venture near. Access is possible from several cities, including Neiva, Cali, and Popayan.
- Best Time to Visit: Ideally visited during the dry seasons, from December to March and July to August, to avoid heavy rains and cloud cover.
- How to Get There: Currently closed to tourism due to volcanic activity, detailed access and tour information are not applicable for safety reasons.
Nevado de Santa Isabel
Bordering the departments of Caldas, Risaralda, and Tolima, Nevado de Santa Isabel ascends to 4,965 meters. This dormant volcano offers a more gentle ascent, making it ideal for those seeking less strenuous adventures. The nearby Otun Lagoon, just an hour’s walk from Santa Isabel, is a highlight within the Los Nevados Natural Park.
- Best Time to Visit: The best months are December to March, when the weather is clearer and drier.
- How to Get There:
- By Yourself: Access is typically through Pereira or Manizales, with public transport options to the park’s entrance. From there, hiking or hiring a local guide is necessary.
- Tour Option: Guided tours including transport, a guide, and equipment rental can range from $100 to $200.
- Entrance Fee: Entrance to Los Nevados National Natural Park is around $5 to $15, varying by nationality and age.
Nevado del Ruiz
Famous for its catastrophic eruption in 1985, Nevado del Ruiz is now a hub for winter sports enthusiasts and those interested in its rich history and the preservation of endangered species. Located in the Nevados Natural Park, it provides an opportunity to explore Colombia’s endemic flora and fauna. The city of Manizales is conveniently close, facilitating visits to this iconic volcano.
- Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons, particularly from December to March, offer the best conditions for visiting.
- How to Get There:
- By Yourself: From Manizales, buses run to the national park entrance. From there, you can either hike or take a park-approved vehicle closer to the volcano.
- Tour Option: Tours from nearby cities like Manizales or Pereira typically cost between $50 to $150, including transportation, guides, and sometimes meals.
- Entrance Fee: Entry to the national park is required, with fees around $5 to $15 depending on various factors.
Cumbal Volcano
Cumbal, the largest volcano in southern Colombia, stands out for its permanent gas emissions and ash plumes. Its summit features several volcanic domes that constantly emit sulfur fumes. On clear days, visitors can see the ocean and the grey La Bolsa Lagoon from the top, making it a unique spot for panoramic views.
- Best Time to Visit: The preferable time to visit is during the drier months, from December to March, for better visibility and safer trekking conditions.
- How to Get There:
- By Yourself: Getting to Cumbal independently involves traveling to the town of Cumbal from Pasto, which can take a few hours by bus. From the town, the ascent begins, and hiring a local guide is recommended for safety.
- Tour Option: Guided tours, though less common due to the volcano’s remote location, may range from $100 to $200, including transportation and a guide.
- Entrance Fee: There is no formal entrance fee to access Cumbal Volcano, but contributions to local community guides or conservation efforts are encouraged.
Best Volcanoes to Visit in Colombia: Adventure and Safety
The quest to discover the best volcanoes to visit in Colombia takes us on an extraordinary journey. As we have explored, each volcano has its own unique character and story. While the allure of Colombia’s volcanoes is undeniable, it’s crucial for visitors to prioritize safety by planning their visits through authorized tour operators. These experts possess the necessary knowledge and experience to navigate the varying conditions of active, dormant, and extinct volcanoes, ensuring a memorable and safe experience.
Colombia’s volcanoes offer more than just hiking and scenic views; they are gateways to understanding the planet’s geologic power and the beauty it can create. Whether you’re an avid mountaineer, a nature lover, or simply curious about the natural world, Colombia’s volcanic landscapes promise an unforgettable adventure.