Ever wondered what it feels like to touch the sky? Join me, Carry, as I take you step by step through my adventure to Nevado del Ruiz inside Colombia’s Los Nevados National Natural Park. From coca tea at high altitude to the Valley of the Tombs at 4,450 meters, this trip is pure magic.
Part 1: Coca Tea and Laguna Negra
The journey begins near Manizales, already at 11,300 ft above sea level. First stop? A hot cup of coca tea – a traditional way to ease into the altitude. From there, the road winds up into the páramo, where we reached the mystical Laguna Negra. Dark waters, foggy horizons, and that eerie silence only mountains can give.
Tip: Always check pico y placa restrictions for the park entrance roads before planning your trip. It can affect which days you’re allowed to drive up.
Part 2: Frailejones and Aguacerales
Heading deeper into Los Nevados National Park, everything changes. Glaciers peek out in the distance while the páramo unfolds around you. Here we found the incredible frailejones, giant plants that work as living sponges, capturing water and feeding entire ecosystems. At Aguacerales (4,160m / 13,650 ft), the clouds drifted between mountains and rivers literally began drop by drop in front of us.
This part of the hike is a reminder: nature here is fragile, powerful, and unlike anything else in Latin America.
Part 3: Chalet Arenales and the Red Sands
Climbing higher, we reached Chalet Arenales. Honestly? It felt like stepping onto Mars. Pink and red sands, surreal light, and plants that looked straight out of a sci-fi movie. The higher we went, the thinner the air and the more unreal the views became. And then… there it was: Nevado del Ruiz, rising like a frozen crown above the Andes.
Pack list for this section: warm clothes, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, and the right attitude – altitude can be tough, so pace yourself.
Part 4: Valley of the Tombs
The final chapter of the adventure took us to Valle de las Tumbas (Valley of the Tombs), at 4,450m. A place of silence, legend, and raw beauty, surrounded by eternal snow and rocky landscapes. On rare days, if luck is really on your side, you might even spot a condor of the Andes flying overhead – a sacred and unforgettable sight.
This spot is a must-do when visiting Colombia. Just remember: avoid taking small children (the altitude can be harmful), bundle up, and carry plenty of water. Sometimes the volcano is covered in clouds, but the experience is worth it no matter what.
Final Tips Before You Go
- Check road restrictions (pico y placa) before driving.
- Avoid traveling with small kids – the altitude can be dangerous.
- Wear layers, gloves, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Weather is unpredictable – clear skies can turn to fog in minutes.
- Keep your eyes open for wildlife – spotting a condor is the ultimate prize.
From Manizales to the Valley of the Tombs, this trip was one for the books. Nevado del Ruiz isn’t just a destination – it’s a journey into Colombia’s heart, where glaciers, páramo, and magic collide.
Your next adventure starts at nosfui.com – don’t just read about it, live it
