TOLIMA'S SUMMIT

Witness a sunrise at 5,220 meters above sea level from the summit of Nevado del Tolima, an experience that stays with you for life.

Stand above the clouds, take in the silence of the peaks, and feel the power of the Andes all around you. This is more than a hike, it’s a moment of clarity, strength, and awe.

As you ascend, you’ll journey through a stunning range of ecosystems that showcase the raw beauty and diversity of Los Nevados National Park. It’s a challenge, a reward, and a memory waiting to be made.

What you can expect!

Welcome to an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes.
We’ll venture deep into Los Nevados National Park, ascending to the summit of Nevado del Tolima at 5,220 meters—a place where the sunrise feels like a gift from the mountains themselves.

Along the way, you’ll traverse a stunning variety of ecosystems: lush valleys, cloud forests, high-altitude páramo, and fields of perpetual snow. Every step brings new sights, new sensations, and a deeper connection with the powerful energy of these sacred landscapes.

This journey isn’t just physically demanding—it’s a chance to reconnect with nature on a profound level. The majesty of the Andes will accompany you, offering panoramic views and silent moments that leave a lasting mark on your memory.

More than a hike, this is an experience to challenge your body, awaken your spirit, and reconnect with the essence of the wild. Get ready to feel the magic, beauty, and strength of the mountains like never before.

Tour Summary & Itinerary

Day 0

The evening before your trek begins, we gather at our Salento Office to meet the team, go over everything you need to know.

We’ll review the itinerary, safety protocols, and gear, and set clear expectations for the days ahead. It’s also a great chance to get to know your guides and fellow hikers before the adventure begins.

Attendance is mandatory to ensure everyone is fully prepared.

Final itinerary overview and Q&A
Equipment check and packing guidance
Contract review and signing
Full tour payment
Acclimatization in Salento
Luggage drop-off for mule transport
Time to connect with your guides and group

Day 1

Your journey begins at 5:30 a.m., when we meet at our Salento office for a warm breakfast and final gear check. As the sun rises, we set off by vehicle toward the iconic Cocora Valley, where the real adventure begins.

By 6:40 a.m., boots hit the trail. We begin our ascent at 2,400 meters, hiking through misty Andean forests alive with birdsong and lush greenery. As the altitude increases, the landscape transforms—trees give way to high Andean vegetation and finally, to the páramo, a surreal ecosystem dotted with towering frailejones, unique to these mountains.

Along the way, we’ll pause to enjoy a fresh, hearty lunch, refueling amid breathtaking views and cool mountain air. As the day winds down, we reach La Playa, a rural farmhouse nestled at 3,750 meters. Here, you’ll rest in shared accommodation, surrounded by silence, stars, and the promise of what’s to come.

Day 2

Wake up to the quiet hum of the mountains and enjoy a traditional breakfast at the farmhouse around 7:30 a.m. With energy restored, we begin an acclimatization hike at 8:10 a.m. toward the serene Laguna Escondida from where we’ll see the magnificent Paramillo del Quindío sitting at approximately 4,400 meters above sea level. This hike not only helps your body adjust to the altitude, but also offers sweeping views of the rugged, otherworldly landscape.

We return around 1:00 p.m. for a well-earned lunch back at the farmhouse, followed by a hands-on equipment briefing at 2:00 p.m. Here, our guides walk you through the technical gear needed for glacier travel—ensuring you feel confident and ready for the next day’s challenge.

The afternoon is set aside for rest and recovery. You’ll have time to relax in the dormitories before dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. Afterward, it’s early to bed—Day 3 begins before sunrise, and the summit is calling.

Day 3

The day begins in the stillness of the night. At midnight, we rise for a quick breakfast, gear up, and step into the dark, crisp mountain air. Headlamps light the trail as we make our way steadily toward the glacier.

Around 2:00 a.m., we reach the sandbanks at base camp, where we take a short break to refuel before continuing the ascent. By 4:00 a.m., we arrive at the edge of the glacier. Here, under the stars, we put on our technical equipment, guided step by step by our experienced team.

At 5:45 a.m., we reach the summit of Nevado del Tolima—5,220 meters above sea level. The sunrise unfolds slowly across the horizon, illuminating the peaks and clouds below. It’s a moment of silence, awe, and accomplishment.

We begin our descent around 6:45 a.m., returning to the farmhouse by early afternoon. A warm lunch awaits at 1:30 p.m., followed by a well-deserved rest—your body may be tired, but your mind will be soaring.

Day 4

After a good night’s rest, we begin the final leg of our adventure with breakfast at 7:00 a.m. in the farmhouse. At 7:40 a.m., we lace up our boots one last time and begin the descent back to the Cocora Valley.

As we retrace our steps through the páramo and cloud forests, there’s time to take in the changing landscapes and reflect on the journey. Around 2:00 p.m., we arrive in Cocora Valley, where the trek officially ends.

Back in Salento by 3:00 p.m., we gather for a well-earned lunch and a relaxed tour debrief, sharing highlights, laughs, and memories from the past few days.

What should you bring?

Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunscreen
Hat or Cap / Warm hat
Rain poncho
Quick-drying T-shirts *2
Trekking/Hiking Boots
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof pants
Thermal underwear
Sweater, fleece, or polar jacket

Additional warm clothing for sleeping
Thermal socks * 2
Hiking socks *2
Trekking backpack (30-40 liters)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottle (at least 1 liter)
Thermal/waterproof gloves

(*) At the Salento Hikers office, personal equipment is available for rent (with advance reservation).

TOLIMA'S SUMMIT