Meet Otún Lagoon and El Paramillo del Quindío

Meet Otún Lagoon and El Paramillo del Quindío

The Paramillo del Quindío is one of the highest peaks of the Los Nevados National Natural Park, with an altitude of 4,750 m.a.s.l and is located in the southern part of the park. This mountain was known as El Nevado del Quindío, but due to climate change, in the last two decades it has lost snow considerably. However, it remains a demanding, enigmatic and charming mountain. In a three-day walk through this unique area you will live a great experience knowing different types of vegetation and enjoying spectacular views.

Itinerary

Day 1: Familiarization route with El Páramo

Stop At: Valle del Cocora, Salento Colombia
The adventure begins with a breakfast (6:00 am) in the office. Starting to walk in the Cócora Valley. The tropical humid forest will be crossed by ascending the Cardenas river basin until it reaches the Estrella de Agua nature reserve at an altitude of 3,170 m.s.n.m instead of the first rest. After recovering energy (because it is needed), we will continue our ascent until we reach our destination at Finca La Primavera with a height of 3,800 m.a.s.l. on a strong road due to its large amount of mud (mud) and its steep slope.
Duration: 8 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Finca La Primavera, shared accommodation with shared bathroom.

Day 2: Top Paramillo del Quindío

Stop At: Valle del Cocora, Salento Colombia
This day the tour begins through the Páramo, with the spectacular panoramic views of the Nevado del Tolima and its surrounding landscape. An ascent is made to the Swamps of the Paramillo del Quindío to 4,200m where the Cárdenas River is born. From this point the ascent to the volcano begins, the first part of the ascent can take approximately two hours since it reaches a strong inclination of 45 degrees to reach the summit of 4,750 m.a.s.l. Depending on the climatic conditions, the top offers a panoramic view of the Santa Isabel and Ruiz Nevados, as well as the Otún Lagoon. After a while we return to the La Primavera farm, to arrive in the afternoon (5:30 pm).
Duration: 10 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Finca La Primavera, shared accommodation with shared bathroom.

Day 3: Return to Salento

Stop At: Salento, Salento, Quindio Department
Typical peasant breakfast, walk uphill (2h) to reach 4,000 m.a.s.l. and from the moor, say goodbye to the Paramillo del Quindio. From this point we walk down the valley, then make several ascents and descents accompanied by a diversity of climate and vegetation. Snack on the La Argentina farm with the Los Bustos family. Descent towards Valle del Cocora through muddy and smooth terrain, but offering a different view to the first day. Return to Salento and lunch at a restaurant.
Duration: 6 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
No accommodation included on this day.