Active volcano ”El Machin”

LEVEL 2. MODERATE

Ideal for first time mountaineers. Accessible for all those in good health, who do some exercise regularly and who are accustomed to walking for extended periods of time. Walks from 5 to 6 hours each day (with regular, short breaks), distances between 6 and 10 kilometers per day (≈4-6 miles) along mostly flat, sometimes muddy, undulating paths. The elevation change can exceed 500 meters (≈1,600 ft), with an altitude of 2,000+ meters (≈7,000+ ft) and with little weight to carry.

At 5:30 am, our day begins by jumping on our private, typical transportation of the area, the ‘Willys’ Jeep. With first light we take the National Road, the old route linking Salento with the department of Tolima, commonly known as ‘la linea’.

Our first stop is to a very special wax palm forest, arguably more impressive than the famous Coroca Valley. Here we have the opportunity to wander through the palm forest without other tourists. Your guide will explain why this environment is so special while completing an optional 3 km walk (approx 50 minutes) to the Farm ‘La Carbonera’ where we enjoy a traditional Colombian mountain snack, Agua Panela with Cheese.

Warmed up and rested we start our journey to the base of the Machin Volcano, passing by the Laguna Seca, where we can see the family that lives literally inside the volcano. Depending on the level of activity, it is possible to see jets of steam coming from the various volcanic vents. Once completing our climb to the summit of the volcano, we descend to the hot springs, to relax our muscles in the healing waters. We normally make our return to Salento around 6:30 pm.

Minimum Altitude: 1,895 meters ( Salento)

Maximum Altitude (by car): La línea 3,000 meters

Maximum Altitude (during the hike): 2,750 meters ( Volcán el Machín)

Salento to Toche : 45 km by private transport

Trekking on the volcano : 8km

• Bring a bottle of water (minimum 1 ltr. per person)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Suitable walking shoes/boots (no trainers/sandals)
• For your safety, we recommend you listen to all instructions from your guide during the day
• It is prohibited to remove any vegetation/animal materials from the area
• It is prohibited to consume any illegal substances during the activity
• We do not recommend the consumption of alcohol the day prior to the activity
• We ask that you provide accurate and reliable information on all forms and medical questionnaires for the purpose of ensuring your personal safety.