Summit of the Nevado del Tolima Volcano

Summit of the Nevado del Tolima Volcano

We are a local tourism operator with more than 10 years of experience in the coffee region.

Embark on an epic expedition to the summit of Nevado del Tolima (5,221 m above sea level), one of the most challenging and spectacular peaks in the Colombian Andes. Along the way, you'll cross moorlands, cloud forests, and majestic glaciers in an experience that will test your endurance and reward you with unparalleled views. Guided by experts and with an itinerary designed to maximize your safety and success, this climb is every mountaineer's dream.
You'll visit the summit of Tolima Volcano, 5,221 meters above sea level.

You'll explore the páramo, one of the most important ecosystems in the world.

You'll enjoy one of the most privileged views of the Nevados National Natural Park, the Paramillo del Quindío, the Nevado Santa Isabel, and the Nevado del Tolima.

You'll hike up and down through native forests.
❌ Transfers from other cities to the starting point of the tour
❌ Tips for our staff
❌ Additional drinks and meals
❌ Expenses not specified above
❌ Trekking clothing and equipment
✅ Introductory trip briefing one day before the expedition begins.
✅ Local mountain guide in English or Spanish.
✅ Entrance fee to the private El Portón trail.
✅ 3 nights' accommodation on farms.
✅ Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners.
✅ Mule transport on days 1, 2, and 4 (10 kg and 30 liters of volume per person).
✅ Daily snacks.
✅ Certified high-mountain technical equipment, helmet, crampons, harness, ice axe, and carabiner.
✅ Filtered water daily.
✅ Private round-trip transportation from Salento.
✅ First aid kit.
✅ Medical insurance.
✅ Tour photos.
⚠️ If you need transportation from another city at the start of the tour, please contact us so we can assist you.
Day 0 Acclimatization and Virtual Meeting
You must arrive the day before your reservation to the municipality of Salento located in the department of Quindío to acclimatize and have a mandatory virtual meeting with our team.

This meeting will consist of an informative session in which we will verify that you have the appropriate equipment to carry out the activity and in which we will give you a series of recommendations to finish the Tolima Summit in the Nevados without problems.

Day 1 - Acclimatization walk to La Argentina
Our adventure begins at 6:00 a.m. in Salento, at the El Brunch restaurant, where we will have a delicious breakfast and then board a vehicle that will take us to the Cocora Valley in a journey of approximately 25 minutes.

Once in the Cocora Valley, we will begin our ascent to an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level. During this first hike, we will cross pastures, grasslands, and suspension bridges until we reach the rainforest, where the guide will select the best spot for lunch.

After an 11-km uphill hike, taking approximately 5 hours, we'll arrive at La Argentina, a farm located at an altitude of 3,400 meters above sea level, where we'll rest and have dinner.

Day 2 - Acclimatization hike to La Playa
We'll start the day with a nutritious breakfast before loading our gear onto the mules. From La Argentina Farm, we'll travel 8 km to La Playa Farm (3,700 m above sea level), a route designed to better acclimatize before the summit climb.

Along the way, we'll walk along Páramo trails with spectacular views, allowing for a leisurely and gradual hike to adapt to the altitude. Upon arriving at La Playa, we'll enjoy a hearty lunch and have the afternoon free to rest, hydrate, and prepare the necessary equipment for the summit.

At night, we'll share a hot dinner before an early night and recharge for the great challenge ahead.

Day 3 - Summit Attempt on Nevado del Tolima Volcano
This is the most physically challenging day of the expedition, so it's essential to be in top condition. Remember to carry your backpack, which will include the necessary items for the day, while the rest of your gear will remain at the farm.

Equipment to bring:

Personal clothing for the day.

Rain poncho

Glacier gear: helmet, crampons, ice axe, and harness with carabiner

Hydration (2 liters)

Snacks

Sun protection glasses + sunscreen

Headlamp with spare batteries

We wake up at 11 pm on day 2 to have tea and a light snack before beginning the ascent. We will begin the hike to the glacier, passing key points such as El Calvito, Arenales, the heliport, the rock pass, and finally the ascent to the glacier, with the goal of reaching the summit at 5,221 meters.

Sections of the ascent:

Arenales (4,400 m): This first part of the route consists of a steep climb through sandy transition areas between the superpáramo and the glacial moraines. Here we begin to feel the physical challenge as we enter a landscape of incredible beauty.

Crack Pass (4,800 m): We continue ascending through rocky terrain, previously covered by the glacier. This section presents some passes that we will navigate with caution and safety.

Glacier (5,000 m): As we reach the edge of the glacier, we will equip ourselves with crampons, ice axes, a helmet, and a harness for the ascent. From this point, the terrain has a steep 2-kilometer ascent that will take us to the summit. The journey over the glacier will take approximately 1.5 hours.

Summit of Nevado del Tolima (5,221 m):
Once at the summit, we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding the National Park. The sensation of reaching the summit will be indescribable, and we will take advantage of the time to admire the landscape, weather permitting.

Descent:
The descent will follow the same route. Once we leave the glacier, we will remove our glacier equipment and continue to La Playa farm (approximately 2:00 p.m.), where the day will end. The total estimated ascent and descent time is approximately 14 hours.

This day requires physical effort, but the reward is one of the most gratifying and spectacular experiences the mountains have to offer.
How fit do I need to be?:
To do this trek, you need to be in very good physical condition. If you want to get the most out of your trip, you should be able to walk distances of 19 km over several consecutive days. Much of the trek will be at high altitudes, so it is recommended to spend a few nights before the trek at altitudes above 2,500 m above sea level, especially if you live at sea level.

Briefing:
All briefings take place the day before the trip at your hotel. The meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. We'll check that you have everything you need, answer any questions you may have about the trek, and you can also pay the remaining 50%.

Where can I store my main luggage?:
During the trip, you can store your main luggage for free in our hold. You can also safely store any equipment that you will not need for the tour at your hotel. Almost all hotels offer this service.

Pick-up:
All pickups are made at El Brunch restaurant, which will be our meeting point on day 1. If you are staying in an area far from the center of Salento, you will be charged an additional fee for pickup. Our staff will confirm the meeting time at El Brunch restaurant the day before the tour.

Return to Salento:
The return to Salento from the Cocora Valley is included in a private transfer from the Los Orillos restaurant; however, on holidays, these transfers may be limited, and it will be necessary to return by public transportation (Jeep Willys).

Bookings and Pre - payment:
To book this adventure, you only have to choose the desired date. If there are places available you can reserve your place with a 50% of the total, the other 50% is normally paid one day before the start of the trek in the briefing meeting., if you want to do the private tour you can choose the date you want. For the first payment and the final payment, we accept cash, credit and debit cards.

Accepted Payment Methods:
For the first and last payment, we accept cash, credit, and debit cards.

Important!

Days before the trek, please pay attention to your diet, avoid alcohol or drugs, and avoid smoking.

Do not consume alcoholic beverages or hallucinogenic drugs before or during the trek.

Do not extract any plant or animal species from the ecosystem.

Please return all trash to the city.
Backpack (minimum 25L)

Quick-dry base layer

Hiking pants

Warm jacket or fleece

Waterproof jacket

Raincoat or rain poncho (available for rent)

Sun hat

Wool hat for the cold

Buff

Light gloves

Waterproof gloves

Hiking socks

Spare clothes

Hiking or hiking boots

Gaiters (available for rent)

Sunglasses with minimum category 3 UV protection

Headlamp (available for rent)

Trekking poles (available for rent)

2L water bottle or Camelback

Personal medications

Sunscreen

Personal care products

Towel

ID or valid passport

Extra money (recommended in COP)

Price per person:

Not applicable

*The Price in Dollars is approximate

Choose the number of participants to know the price.

Write to WhatsApp

Embark on an epic expedition to the summit of Nevado del Tolima (5,221 m above sea level), one of the most challenging and spectacular peaks in the Colombian Andes. Along the way, you'll cross moorlands, cloud forests, and majestic glaciers in an experience that will test your endurance and reward you with unparalleled views. Guided by experts and with an itinerary designed to maximize your safety and success, this climb is every mountaineer's dream.
You'll visit the summit of Tolima Volcano, 5,221 meters above sea level.

You'll explore the páramo, one of the most important ecosystems in the world.

You'll enjoy one of the most privileged views of the Nevados National Natural Park, the Paramillo del Quindío, the Nevado Santa Isabel, and the Nevado del Tolima.

You'll hike up and down through native forests.
❌ Transfers from other cities to the starting point of the tour
❌ Tips for our staff
❌ Additional drinks and meals
❌ Expenses not specified above
❌ Trekking clothing and equipment
✅ Introductory trip briefing one day before the expedition begins.
✅ Local mountain guide in English or Spanish.
✅ Entrance fee to the private El Portón trail.
✅ 3 nights' accommodation on farms.
✅ Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners.
✅ Mule transport on days 1, 2, and 4 (10 kg and 30 liters of volume per person).
✅ Daily snacks.
✅ Certified high-mountain technical equipment, helmet, crampons, harness, ice axe, and carabiner.
✅ Filtered water daily.
✅ Private round-trip transportation from Salento.
✅ First aid kit.
✅ Medical insurance.
✅ Tour photos.
⚠️ If you need transportation from another city at the start of the tour, please contact us so we can assist you.
Day 0 Acclimatization and Virtual Meeting
You must arrive the day before your reservation to the municipality of Salento located in the department of Quindío to acclimatize and have a mandatory virtual meeting with our team.

This meeting will consist of an informative session in which we will verify that you have the appropriate equipment to carry out the activity and in which we will give you a series of recommendations to finish the Tolima Summit in the Nevados without problems.

Day 1 - Acclimatization walk to La Argentina
Our adventure begins at 6:00 a.m. in Salento, at the El Brunch restaurant, where we will have a delicious breakfast and then board a vehicle that will take us to the Cocora Valley in a journey of approximately 25 minutes.

Once in the Cocora Valley, we will begin our ascent to an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level. During this first hike, we will cross pastures, grasslands, and suspension bridges until we reach the rainforest, where the guide will select the best spot for lunch.

After an 11-km uphill hike, taking approximately 5 hours, we'll arrive at La Argentina, a farm located at an altitude of 3,400 meters above sea level, where we'll rest and have dinner.

Day 2 - Acclimatization hike to La Playa
We'll start the day with a nutritious breakfast before loading our gear onto the mules. From La Argentina Farm, we'll travel 8 km to La Playa Farm (3,700 m above sea level), a route designed to better acclimatize before the summit climb.

Along the way, we'll walk along Páramo trails with spectacular views, allowing for a leisurely and gradual hike to adapt to the altitude. Upon arriving at La Playa, we'll enjoy a hearty lunch and have the afternoon free to rest, hydrate, and prepare the necessary equipment for the summit.

At night, we'll share a hot dinner before an early night and recharge for the great challenge ahead.

Day 3 - Summit Attempt on Nevado del Tolima Volcano
This is the most physically challenging day of the expedition, so it's essential to be in top condition. Remember to carry your backpack, which will include the necessary items for the day, while the rest of your gear will remain at the farm.

Equipment to bring:

Personal clothing for the day.

Rain poncho

Glacier gear: helmet, crampons, ice axe, and harness with carabiner

Hydration (2 liters)

Snacks

Sun protection glasses + sunscreen

Headlamp with spare batteries

We wake up at 11 pm on day 2 to have tea and a light snack before beginning the ascent. We will begin the hike to the glacier, passing key points such as El Calvito, Arenales, the heliport, the rock pass, and finally the ascent to the glacier, with the goal of reaching the summit at 5,221 meters.

Sections of the ascent:

Arenales (4,400 m): This first part of the route consists of a steep climb through sandy transition areas between the superpáramo and the glacial moraines. Here we begin to feel the physical challenge as we enter a landscape of incredible beauty.

Crack Pass (4,800 m): We continue ascending through rocky terrain, previously covered by the glacier. This section presents some passes that we will navigate with caution and safety.

Glacier (5,000 m): As we reach the edge of the glacier, we will equip ourselves with crampons, ice axes, a helmet, and a harness for the ascent. From this point, the terrain has a steep 2-kilometer ascent that will take us to the summit. The journey over the glacier will take approximately 1.5 hours.

Summit of Nevado del Tolima (5,221 m):
Once at the summit, we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding the National Park. The sensation of reaching the summit will be indescribable, and we will take advantage of the time to admire the landscape, weather permitting.

Descent:
The descent will follow the same route. Once we leave the glacier, we will remove our glacier equipment and continue to La Playa farm (approximately 2:00 p.m.), where the day will end. The total estimated ascent and descent time is approximately 14 hours.

This day requires physical effort, but the reward is one of the most gratifying and spectacular experiences the mountains have to offer.
How fit do I need to be?:
To do this trek, you need to be in very good physical condition. If you want to get the most out of your trip, you should be able to walk distances of 19 km over several consecutive days. Much of the trek will be at high altitudes, so it is recommended to spend a few nights before the trek at altitudes above 2,500 m above sea level, especially if you live at sea level.

Briefing:
All briefings take place the day before the trip at your hotel. The meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. We'll check that you have everything you need, answer any questions you may have about the trek, and you can also pay the remaining 50%.

Where can I store my main luggage?:
During the trip, you can store your main luggage for free in our hold. You can also safely store any equipment that you will not need for the tour at your hotel. Almost all hotels offer this service.

Pick-up:
All pickups are made at El Brunch restaurant, which will be our meeting point on day 1. If you are staying in an area far from the center of Salento, you will be charged an additional fee for pickup. Our staff will confirm the meeting time at El Brunch restaurant the day before the tour.

Return to Salento:
The return to Salento from the Cocora Valley is included in a private transfer from the Los Orillos restaurant; however, on holidays, these transfers may be limited, and it will be necessary to return by public transportation (Jeep Willys).

Bookings and Pre - payment:
To book this adventure, you only have to choose the desired date. If there are places available you can reserve your place with a 50% of the total, the other 50% is normally paid one day before the start of the trek in the briefing meeting., if you want to do the private tour you can choose the date you want. For the first payment and the final payment, we accept cash, credit and debit cards.

Accepted Payment Methods:
For the first and last payment, we accept cash, credit, and debit cards.

Important!

Days before the trek, please pay attention to your diet, avoid alcohol or drugs, and avoid smoking.

Do not consume alcoholic beverages or hallucinogenic drugs before or during the trek.

Do not extract any plant or animal species from the ecosystem.

Please return all trash to the city.
Backpack (minimum 25L)

Quick-dry base layer

Hiking pants

Warm jacket or fleece

Waterproof jacket

Raincoat or rain poncho (available for rent)

Sun hat

Wool hat for the cold

Buff

Light gloves

Waterproof gloves

Hiking socks

Spare clothes

Hiking or hiking boots

Gaiters (available for rent)

Sunglasses with minimum category 3 UV protection

Headlamp (available for rent)

Trekking poles (available for rent)

2L water bottle or Camelback

Personal medications

Sunscreen

Personal care products

Towel

ID or valid passport

Extra money (recommended in COP)