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Nevado del Ruiz: A Majestic, Active Volcano

Explore the stunning landscapes of Los Nevados National Park, home to the active Nevado del Ruiz volcano, a symbol of Colombia's natural beauty and power.

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Nevado del Ruiz, a towering stratovolcano in the Andes Mountains, is a sight to behold. While the summit is currently off-limits due to volcanic activity, the surrounding Los Nevados National Park offers stunning views, unique high-altitude ecosystems, and a chance to reflect on the power of nature. The volcano's history, including the tragic 1985 eruption, adds a layer of somber reflection to its majestic presence.

A brief summary to Nevado Del Ruiz

  • Manizales, Villamaría, Caldas, CO

Local tips

  • Bring warm clothing and layers, as the weather in the high-altitude environment can change rapidly.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Acclimatize to the altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.
  • Check the current volcanic activity status and park regulations before your visit.
  • Consider booking a guided tour from Manizales or a nearby town for transportation and expert insights.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Manizales, take a bus to Villamaría. Buses labeled 'Villamaría' are available at the main terminal. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From Villamaría, you'll need to arrange transportation to Los Nevados National Park, where Nevado del Ruiz is located. This can be done via taxi or a tour operator. Bus fare to Villamaría is approximately 2,500 COP. A taxi from Villamaría to the park entrance can cost between 60,000 and 80,000 COP, depending on the distance and negotiation. Alternatively, consider booking a tour from Manizales, which includes transportation.

  • Taxi

    From your hotel in Manizales, a taxi directly to the entrance of Los Nevados National Park is the most direct option. Negotiate the fare beforehand; expect to pay between 80,000 and 120,000 COP, depending on the location of your hotel and traffic conditions. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Be sure to confirm that the taxi is willing to take you all the way to the park entrance, as some drivers may be hesitant due to the distance and road conditions.

  • Tour Operator

    Booking a tour with a local operator in Manizales is a convenient way to visit Nevado del Ruiz. Many agencies offer day trips that include transportation, a guided tour of the park, and sometimes a stop at nearby hot springs. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and inclusions, but expect to pay between 310,000 and 340,000 COP per person. Check what is included in the tour. Some tours include entrance fees to Los Nevados National Park, breakfast and lunch, medical assistance insurance, and entrance to hot springs.

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Discover more about Nevado Del Ruiz

Nevado del Ruiz, also known as Kumanday by pre-Columbian tribes, is a majestic stratovolcano that stands as the jewel of Los Nevados National Park. Located in the central Andes Mountains of Colombia, near Manizales, Villamaría, and Caldas, it is part of the northern volcanic complex. The volcano's peak reaches approximately 5,300 meters (17,400 feet), often capped with snow, although the snowline has been receding in recent years. Nevado del Ruiz is an active volcano, and its activity is closely monitored by the Colombian Geological Survey. The most devastating eruption occurred in 1985, triggering a mudflow that buried the town of Armero, resulting in over 25,000 fatalities. This event stands as one of Colombia's worst natural disasters, a stark reminder of the volcano's potential power. Today, visitors can experience the unique landscape of Los Nevados National Park, although access to the volcano's summit is restricted due to safety concerns. Guided tours take visitors to the Valle de las Tumbas sector, offering panoramic views of the interglacial valley. The park showcases diverse ecosystems, from lush green vegetation at lower elevations to the unique páramo ecosystem higher up, characterized by frailejones (giant rosette plants). The park is a haven for biodiversity, with over 1,200 species of vascular plants and a corresponding diversity of animals. Wildlife includes the spectacled bear, mountain tapir, and various bird species such as the buffy helmetcrest hummingbird. The park also offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural hot springs located on the volcano's lower slopes.

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