Did you know that over 45% of our hikers are first-time mountain trekkers? Sometimes it is hard to know what to really expect, so here are 5 things to look out for when visiting the Los Nevados National Park with Paramo Trek:
- Hard work! No point beating around the bush- hiking in the Colombian Andes is not easy. Thankfully anyone in general good health and with a little experience walking in challenging terrain can attempt the vast majority of the routes we offer. For some tours, such as the demanding and more technical route to the summit of Nevado Tolima(5,220m) we recommend a basic understanding and use of ice-climbing gear and prior experience of physically demanding challenges.
- Diverse weather– and that’s putting it mildly! Most days spent hiking here involve ascending or descending many hundreds of meters/feet of altitude. That’s why we make sure that everybody is properly equipped for rain, wind, and sun. As all mountain lovers know, the unpredictability of the mountains is part of the charm. Check out this post about whether you can hike in the Colombian wet season.
- Interaction with local communities. Local families have occupied the now National Park for centuries- from indigenous groups specialising in gold-working to the current dairy farmers dotted around the area. Our guides explain how the hardship from the recent wars and peace process has changed the way these groups live. We support these communities by encouraging responsible tourism. Multiple local families now offer accommodation and food for hiking agencies bringing tourists to the area.
- Twitchers paradise. The paramo’s of the Cordillera Central are home to many vulnerable and endemic species of birds. With condors (the world’s largest flying bird), toucans, hummingbirds and much more, the forests are often described as being ‘alive’. The big three mammals of the area (puma, tapir and spectacled bear) have a population too small, are nocturnal or naturally evasive to expect sightings, however it isn’t uncommon to find prints along the trails.
- Seeing a different side to Colombia. When you think of Colombia, you might think of the white sands of Caribbean beaches, the cultural wonder of Medellin or the roaming coffee fields… but you don’t think of glaciers, snow and high Andean plains. However, the Los Nevados National Park (literally, the snow peaks National Park) boasts all three. People are always surprised by the lack of other travelers in the park, the peace, and tranquillity, as well as the diverse, natural beauty.
Each specific hiking, trekking and climbing itinerary has its own secrets and unexpected sights, so contact our expert staff to see what is the perfect trek for you.
