Top 10 Best Hikes in Colombia

Why Colombia is a Hiker’s Paradise

A Land of Diverse Ecosystems

Few countries on Earth can offer the sheer ecological variety found in Colombia, making it a destination of immense appeal for hikers. The country’s topography is a dramatic tapestry woven from snow-dusted Andean peaks, ethereal high-altitude moorlands known as páramos, dense Amazonian rainforests, and sun-drenched Caribbean coastlines. This diversity means that within a single trip, one can experience vastly different climates, flora, and fauna.

This geographical richness is largely due to the formidable Andes mountains, which split into three distinct ranges—the Cordillera Occidental, Cordillera Central, and Cordillera Oriental—as they cross the country from south to north. These mountain chains create a wealth of microclimates and isolated ecosystems, offering an almost endless array of trails for every level of hiker.

The Rise of Ecotourism

In recent decades, Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a secure and welcoming destination for adventure travel. Regions that were once inaccessible are now opening up, revealing pristine natural landscapes to respectful visitors. This shift has been driven by a focus on ecotourism, where conservation and community are intertwined.

Local communities, many of which are indigenous, are increasingly at the forefront of these efforts. They act as stewards of their ancestral lands, guiding travelers through sacred territories and sharing deep cultural insights. Choosing to hike in Colombia often means directly supporting these conservation initiatives and contributing to a sustainable model of tourism that empowers local people and helps protect the country’s incredible biodiversity for generations to come. For a deeper understanding of these communities, explore our article on the Koguis of Colombia.

What to Know Before You Hike in Colombia

Colombia’s trails offer unparalleled rewards, but they also come with unique conditions. A little preparation ensures your adventure is memorable for all the right reasons. From the thin air of the Andes to the dense humidity of the jungle, here’s what to consider before you lace up your boots.

Altitude Sickness (Soroche)

Many of Colombia’s most spectacular hikes are situated at high elevations in the Andes. Altitude sickness, known locally as soroche, is a common concern for travelers. It occurs when your body doesn’t have enough time to adapt to the lower oxygen levels above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Symptoms can range from mild headaches and nausea to more severe shortness of breath and fatigue, affecting your hiking ability and enjoyment.

For treks in high-altitude areas like El Cocuy National Park or Los Nevados National Park, proper acclimatization is not just a suggestion—it’s essential for your safety and well-being. Consider these tips:

• Arrive Early: Spend at least two to three days at a high-altitude city (like Bogotá, Manizales, or the town of El Cocuy) before undertaking a strenuous high-elevation hike.
• Hydrate and Eat Wisely: Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals and alcohol, as they can exacerbate symptoms.
• Ascend Slowly: On the trail, maintain a slow and steady pace. Listen to your body; if you feel unwell, do not push higher.
• Consider Coca Tea: Many locals recommend drinking coca tea (té de coca) to help alleviate mild symptoms. It is a traditional remedy widely available in Andean regions.

Guided vs. Independent Hiking

While many trails in Colombia are suitable for independent hikers, some of the most iconic treks either recommend or require a licensed guide. For the Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida), a guided tour is mandatory. This is to ensure the safety of hikers in the remote jungle and to respectfully manage interactions with the indigenous communities whose ancestral land you are crossing. For guidance on this trek, check out our Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Travel Guide. Similarly, regulations in El Cocuy National Park require all visitors to be accompanied by a certified local guide for safety and environmental protection.

Even where it isn’t required, hiring a local guide offers immense benefits. They provide:

• Safety and Expertise: Guides possess invaluable knowledge of the local terrain, unpredictable weather patterns, and trail conditions.
• Rich Cultural Context: A local guide can transform a beautiful walk into a profound experience, sharing insights into the area’s history, geology, unique flora and fauna, and the stories of the communities who call it home.
• Economic Support: Hiring local guides and using local tour operators ensures that tourism revenue directly benefits the communities that are the stewards of these incredible landscapes.

Safety and Trail Conditions

Colombia’s natural landscapes are as wild as they are beautiful. When hiking, particularly in more remote areas, it is important to take sensible precautions. Always let someone know your planned route and estimated return time. Carry a map or a reliable GPS device, and pack a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries.

Trail conditions can change dramatically with the weather. Colombia generally has two main rainy seasons (roughly April to May and October to November), which can transform dirt paths into slick mud and cause river levels to rise, sometimes making crossings hazardous or impossible. Before you depart, always check the most current information on trail status and weather forecasts with national park offices or trusted local tour agencies. For general advice on when to plan your trip, consult our guide on the best time to visit Colombia.

1. The Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida)

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

Often compared to Machu Picchu but centuries older, the trek to Ciudad Perdida is Colombia’s definitive jungle adventure. This is not merely a hike; it’s a multi-day pilgrimage through the dense, humid wilderness of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to the sacred ruins of a Teyuna city, built around 800 AD. The journey offers a profound physical challenge and a rare opportunity for cultural immersion, as the trail passes through the ancestral lands of the Koguis and Wiwa indigenous communities, direct descendants of the Teyuna.

For those who undertake it, the trek is a true test of endurance. The reward, however, is immense: the privilege of standing on the stone terraces of a lost city, enveloped by the sounds of the jungle, far from the modern world. It’s an experience that connects you deeply with both nature and history.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 4-5 days
• Best Time to Go: December to March (the dry season offers more manageable trail conditions)
• Starting Point: Santa Marta

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

Prepare for a physically demanding journey that is as humbling as it is beautiful. The trail requires you to navigate steep, muddy inclines, cross rivers on foot, and endure the persistent humidity of the jungle canopy. Evenings are spent at rustic camps set up by local families, where you’ll sleep in a hammock or a simple bunk, lulled to sleep by a chorus of insects and frogs. This is a trek that strips away modern comforts and focuses on the essentials.

The culmination of this effort is the final, dramatic ascent: a climb up 1,200 ancient, moss-covered stone steps that emerge from the jungle floor onto the city’s magnificent upper terraces. As the morning mist clears, the full scale of the Lost City is revealed—a series of stone rings, plazas, and pathways carved into the mountainside. The sense of accomplishment and awe at this moment is unforgettable, making every challenging step of the journey worthwhile.

2. Cocora Valley Circuit (Valle de Cocora)

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

The Cocora Valley is perhaps one of Colombia’s most defining and dreamlike landscapes. It is the principal home of the Palma de Cera del Quindío, or Quindío wax palm, a startlingly slender palm that soars up to 60 meters, making it the tallest in the world. As Colombia’s national tree, it has become a symbol of the country’s unique natural heritage. A hike here is less about conquering a peak and more about immersing yourself in a surreal panorama that seems drawn from a fantasy novel, a place that perfectly encapsulates the lush, misty beauty of the coffee region.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 5-6 hours (for the full loop)
• Best Time to Go: The valley can be visited year-round, though rain is a frequent companion. Mornings typically offer the clearest skies before the afternoon clouds roll in.
• Starting Point: The nearby town of Salento, from which shared jeeps (Willys) depart regularly.

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The classic circuit hike offers a journey of two distinct halves. You can begin by descending into the valley floor, following a path that leads into a dense and humid cloud forest. The trail here follows the Quindío river, which you’ll cross multiple times over a series of rickety but charming suspension bridges. A popular detour leads to Acaime, a small hummingbird sanctuary where you can observe dozens of these iridescent birds for a small fee that includes a traditional drink. From there, the trail begins a steady and steep ascent out of the forest, culminating in a dramatic reveal. As you emerge from the trees, the full, breathtaking expanse of the Cocora Valley opens up before you, with its iconic wax palms piercing the clouds like silent sentinels across the vibrant green hillsides.

3. El Cocuy National Park (Laguna Grande de la Sierra)

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

For a complete departure from Colombia’s tropical lowlands, El Cocuy National Park presents the Andes at their most formidable and majestic. This is a high-altitude sanctuary of snow-capped peaks, receding glaciers, and crystalline alpine lakes. The trek to Laguna Grande de la Sierra is not just a walk; it’s an expedition into a raw, breathtaking landscape that feels otherworldly, offering a profound sense of solitude and connection with the power of the mountains.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Challenging (due to altitude)
• Duration: 1 day (8-9 hours)
• Best Time to Go: December to March
• Starting Point: The towns of El Cocuy or Güicán

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The journey begins with a climb into the unique páramo ecosystem, a high-altitude moorland populated by forests of Frailejones, fuzzy, otherworldly plants that are crucial to the region’s water system. As you gain elevation, the vegetation gives way to a stark, rocky terrain. The trail rewards you with spectacular views of iconic peaks like Pan de Azúcar and the distinctively shaped El Púlpito del Diablo (The Devil’s Pulpit). The ultimate destination is the stunningly turquoise Laguna Grande de la Sierra, a glacial lake resting at the foot of a massive rock amphitheater. The thin, crisp air and the immense scale of the landscape make for an unforgettable and humbling experience.

It is crucial to understand that this is a demanding high-altitude hike, reaching over 4,500 meters (14,700 feet). Proper acclimatization is not just a recommendation; it is essential for your safety and enjoyment. Plan to spend at least two to three days in the towns of El Cocuy or Güicán (both around 2,750 meters) before attempting the trek. Furthermore, to protect the fragile glacial environment, authorities have restricted access to the ice and snowfields, meaning trekking on the glaciers themselves is no longer permitted. The views, however, remain as spectacular as ever.

4. Tayrona National Park (Cabo San Juan Trail)

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

Where the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta meet the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, you will find Tayrona National Park. This hike offers a unique combination of experiences, leading you through humid jungle trails before rewarding you with some of Colombia’s most spectacular beaches. It’s a journey that satisfies both the desire for forest immersion and coastal relaxation.

The park is a sanctuary for a remarkable array of wildlife. As you walk, the sounds of the jungle come alive. Keep an eye out for troops of howler and capuchin monkeys moving through the canopy, the flash of a blue-billed curassow, or the vibrant colors of the small land crabs that scuttle across the path. This convergence of ecosystems makes the trek to Cabo San Juan a captivating introduction to Colombia’s Caribbean biodiversity.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 2-3 hours one-way (can be an overnight trip)
• Best Time to Go: February-April and September-October to avoid the largest crowds and the heaviest rains.
• Starting Point: El Zaino entrance

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The journey from the El Zaino entrance begins on well-defined jungle paths and elevated wooden boardwalks that wind through the dense, humid forest. The trail alternates between shaded canopy and sun-drenched clearings, eventually opening up to reveal the coastline. Your first major stop is Arrecifes, a wild and beautiful beach where strong currents make swimming unsafe, but the view is magnificent.

Continuing along the coast, the path leads to La Piscina, a calm, reef-protected bay that offers the perfect spot for a refreshing swim. The final leg of the trail brings you to the park’s most famous destination: Cabo San Juan del Guía. Here, two picturesque bays are separated by a rocky outcrop topped with an iconic thatched hut. Climbing to this viewpoint provides a panoramic vista of the surrounding beaches and the vast Caribbean, a fitting conclusion to one of Colombia’s most essential coastal hikes.

5. Los Nevados National Park (Paramillo del Quindío)

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

For those who find beauty in stark, elemental landscapes, Los Nevados National Park offers an unforgettable high-altitude experience. This trek takes you across a vast volcanic moonscape, a terrain shaped by ancient eruptions and glacial forces. It is one of Colombia’s most critical high-altitude ecosystems, a source of water for the entire coffee region. On a clear day, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of glaciated peaks, including the famous, and still active, Nevado del Ruiz.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 1-3 days (depending on the route)
• Best Time to Go: December to March and July to August
• Starting Point: Valle de Cocora (for multi-day treks) or near Manizales

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The journey through Los Nevados is a lesson in high-altitude endurance. You will cross immense páramo landscapes, with their unique flora, before the terrain gives way to desolate volcanic sand plains that feel otherworldly. The goal is to be granted clear skies, which reveal a stunning panorama of volcanic giants: Nevado del Ruiz, Nevado del Tolima, and Santa Isabel. Be prepared for the full force of mountain weather; conditions can shift from brilliant sunshine to freezing fog and wind in a matter of minutes. This trek is a profound encounter with the raw power and scale of the high Andes. For more ideas on what to do in Colombia, check out our guide to the top 25 things to do in Colombia.

6. Páramo de Ocetá

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

While Colombia has many high-altitude páramos, Páramo de Ocetá is frequently cited as the most beautiful in the world. This isn’t a landscape of dramatic, jagged peaks, but rather one of subtle, profound beauty. Located near the picturesque colonial town of Monguí, Ocetá offers an otherworldly experience, a journey into a mystical ecosystem of unique flora, curious rock formations, and rolling fog that transforms the scenery from one moment to the next. It’s a hike that feels less like a physical challenge and more like stepping into a living, breathing natural sanctuary. For those seeking unique destinations, this is certainly one of the out of the beaten tracks places to visit in Colombia.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Best Time to Go: Year-round, but the dry season from December to March generally offers clearer views.
• Starting Point: Monguí, Boyacá

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The trek to Ocetá is a gradual immersion into its singular environment. The highlight for many is walking through dense gardens of Frailejones, the fuzzy, Seuss-like plants that are the cornerstone of the páramo ecosystem. Some of these plants are centuries old, standing like silent sentinels across the high plains. The trail eventually leads to the Ciudad de Piedra, or “Stone City,” a natural labyrinth of rock formations that wind and weather have sculpted into alleys and corridors, inviting exploration. A local guide is essential here, not only for navigation but to share the rich Muisca legends tied to the land, stories of sacred rituals and spirits that inhabit this ethereal place, connecting you deeply to the history beneath your feet. If you’re planning a trip, consider when is the best time to visit Colombia.

7. Jardín’s Cueva del Esplendor

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

Deep in the lush, rolling hills of Antioquia, the hike to La Cueva del Esplendor offers a conclusion as dramatic as its name suggests. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a journey to a geological marvel where a powerful waterfall has carved a hole through the roof of a cavern, creating a singular, breathtaking scene. The hike combines the charm of the Colombian coffee region’s countryside with the raw power of nature, making it a memorable adventure for those exploring the beautiful town of Jardín.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 3-4 hours (The journey can also be partially completed on horseback)
• Best Time to Go: Accessible year-round, though trails can become quite muddy and slick during the rainy seasons (April-May and October-November). For more on when to visit, check out our guide to the best time to visit Colombia.
• Starting Point: Jardín, Antioquia

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The trail to the “Cave of Splendor” winds its way through the quintessential Antioquian landscape. You’ll pass small fincas, fragrant coffee bushes, and vibrant green banana plantations, all while enjoying expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The path itself is part of the experience, offering an authentic glimpse into the region’s agricultural heartland.

As you get closer, the sound of rushing water grows, building anticipation. The final approach involves a descent towards the river and the cave entrance. Stepping inside, you are immediately greeted by the cool mist and the thunderous sound of the cascade. Looking up, you’ll see a perfect stream of water plunging through the oculus in the rock ceiling, illuminating the cavern with refracted light. For the brave, there is the option to take a refreshing—and decidedly cold—dip in the pool at the waterfall’s base, a truly invigorating way to cap off the hike.

8. Fin del Mundo Waterfalls (Mocoa)

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

For those whose sense of adventure leads them away from the well-trodden path, the Fin del Mundo waterfalls near Mocoa offer a genuine and exhilarating jungle experience. Located in Putumayo, at the very gateway to the Colombian Amazon, this trek is an authentic immersion into the rainforest. The name, which translates to “End of the World,” feels entirely appropriate as you navigate a series of cascades and natural swimming pools, culminating in a breathtaking 75-meter waterfall that plummets into the jungle canopy below. This isn’t a manicured park trail; it’s a raw, rewarding journey for the intrepid traveler looking for out of the beaten tracks places to visit in Colombia.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 3-4 hours round trip
• Best Time to Go: December to February
• Starting Point: Mocoa, Putumayo

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The hike to Fin del Mundo is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself. The trail has you scrambling over moss-covered rocks, wading through clear streams, and pulling yourself up short inclines with the help of fixed ropes, all under the dense, humid canopy of the Amazon. Along the way, you’ll encounter several idyllic swimming holes carved out of the rock. One of the most inviting is the Pozo Negro, a deep, turquoise pool perfect for a refreshing break from the jungle heat. The climax of the trek is reaching the head of the final waterfall. Here, you can carefully approach the edge and peer over, watching the river disappear into a vast expanse of green. The view and the powerful roar of the water provide a profound sense of being at the very edge of civilization.

9. La Chorrera and El Chiflón Waterfalls

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

Just a short journey from the bustling capital of Bogotá lies a serene natural escape into the heart of a cloud forest. This hike offers a remarkable two-for-one experience, leading you to both the powerful El Chiflón waterfall and the magnificent La Chorrera, which at 590 meters is Colombia’s tallest waterfall. Its accessibility and the sheer beauty of the landscape make it an ideal day trip for those looking to trade city streets for lush, green mountain trails without venturing too far. For more ideas on unique destinations in Colombia, check out our guide to out of the beaten tracks places to visit in Colombia.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Best Time to Go: The shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November typically see the most impressive water flow, though the hike is pleasant year-round. For more on when to plan your trip, see our best time to visit Colombia guide.
• Starting Point: The trail begins near the town of Choachí, easily reached from Bogotá.

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

The adventure begins on a scenic loop trail that meanders through pastoral farmland before plunging into the dense, misty cloud forest. The first major landmark is El Chiflón, a powerful, wide cascade where a path allows you to walk directly behind the curtain of water—a refreshing and exhilarating experience. Continuing on, the path winds through the verdant landscape, with the sounds of the forest and streams as your constant companions. The anticipation builds until you reach the main viewpoint, where the breathtaking scale of La Chorrera is revealed. The waterfall descends in multiple tiers down a sheer rock face, its fine mist nourishing the surrounding flora. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that provides a powerful connection to the natural world, all within a day’s reach of the city. If you’re looking for more activities around the capital, consider a trip to the Nemocon Salt Mines from Bogota.

10. Guatavita Lake Loop

Overview and Why It’s a Top Pick

More of a historical walk than a strenuous trek, the loop around Laguna de Guatavita offers a unique journey into the heart of one of South America’s most enduring legends: El Dorado. This perfectly circular, emerald-green crater lake was a sacred site for the indigenous Muisca people, who performed elaborate gold-offering rituals here. The hike provides not only remarkable natural scenery but also a tangible connection to a pre-Columbian past that captivated European explorers for centuries. For a deeper understanding of the indigenous cultures, learn about the Koguis of Colombia.

Key Stats

• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours (guided tour is mandatory)
• Best Time to Go: Year-round, but best on clear weekdays to avoid crowds.
• Starting Point: Near the town of Guatavita

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

Access to the lake is only possible through a guided tour, which serves to protect the fragile ecosystem and enrich the visitor’s experience. You’ll follow a well-maintained cobblestone path that winds its way up the crater’s rim. Along the walk, your guide will pause to explain the unique high-Andean flora and recount the history of the Muisca people and the ceremony that birthed the legend of the golden raft. The walk culminates at several viewpoints, offering breathtaking perspectives of the serene water below. It’s a reflective experience, an accessible trip from Bogotá that transports you to another time and place.

Essential Gear and Responsible Hiking Practices

Colombia’s diverse landscapes demand thoughtful preparation. A successful trek is not just about reaching the destination, but about doing so safely and with respect for the environment and local cultures. Here’s how to prepare for your Colombian hiking adventure.

What to Pack

The key to packing for Colombia is versatility. You can experience multiple climate zones in a single day, from hot, humid jungles to cold, windy páramos. Packing smart ensures you’re comfortable and safe, no matter what the trail brings.

• Layered Clothing: Think in terms of a system. A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece or mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell will allow you to adapt to sudden changes in temperature and weather, which are common at high altitudes.
• Sturdy, Broken-in Hiking Boots: Your feet are your most important asset. Choose waterproof boots with good ankle support. Crucially, make sure you’ve worn them on several hikes before your trip to avoid painful blisters on a multi-day trek like the Ciudad Perdida.
• Sun and Rain Protection: The equatorial sun is incredibly strong, even on overcast days. A wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses are non-negotiable. Likewise, a reliable rain jacket or poncho is essential, as tropical downpours can appear with little warning.
• Reusable Water Bottle & Purifier: Staying hydrated is vital, especially at altitude. Carrying a reusable bottle reduces plastic waste. Since tap water is not always safe to drink in rural areas, bring a water filter, purification tablets, or a UV sterilizer to treat water from natural sources or taps.
• Cash: While cards are widely accepted in cities, many remote trailheads, national park entrances, small village shops, and local guides operate on a cash-only basis. Carry enough Colombian Pesos in small denominations.

Leave No Trace Principles

Colombia’s natural parks are home to some of the most unique and fragile ecosystems on the planet. As visitors, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact and help preserve these pristine landscapes for future generations.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is the golden rule of responsible hiking. Whatever you bring with you must leave with you, including all food wrappers, plastic bottles, and even organic waste like fruit peels, which can take a long time to decompose in certain environments and attract animals.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a respectful distance. Never feed them, as this disrupts their natural diet and behavior, making them dependent on humans and potentially aggressive. Store your food securely at campsites to avoid attracting curious creatures.
• Stay on Designated Trails: Veering off the path can cause erosion and damage delicate flora. This is especially critical in sensitive ecosystems like the páramo, where unique plants like the Frailejones grow very slowly and can be easily destroyed by a single footstep.

Supporting the Local Community

Ecotourism, when done right, provides a sustainable livelihood for local communities and creates powerful incentives for conservation. Your choices as a traveler can make a significant positive impact.

• Hire Local Guides: For many treks, a local guide is not just a navigator but an invaluable source of knowledge about the area’s flora, fauna, history, and culture. Hiring them directly supports their families and ensures the money from tourism benefits the people who call the region home.
• Buy Snacks and Supplies Locally: Before starting your hike, purchase water, snacks, or any last-minute supplies from small, family-owned shops in the starting-point town. This is a simple way to contribute directly to the local economy.
• Ask for Permission Before Taking Photos: Always show respect when photographing people, especially in indigenous communities. A simple gesture and a smile to ask for permission can go a long way. Some people may not wish to be photographed for personal or cultural reasons, and that wish should always be respected.