Hiking in Colombia: Explore Trails and Destinations

Colombia, with its unique geography and rich natural beauty, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves hiking in Colombia. From towering mountains to lush forests, the country offers trails for all levels, where every step reveals breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife, and fascinating cultural landmarks. In this article, you’ll discover some of the best hiking routes in this beautiful country—perfect for those who enjoy nature, outdoor adventure, and a chance to connect deeply with Colombia’s incredible natural and cultural diversity.

Ciudad Perdida, Magdalena / Greater Colombian Caribbean

If you’re looking for one of the most emblematic hiking trips in Colombia, the trek to Ciudad Perdida in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta trekking region is truly unforgettable. Over 3, 4, or 5 days, this adventure takes you through diverse landscapes, including dense rainforest, crystal-clear rivers, and mist-covered mountains. The final destination is Teyuna, known as the Lost City, an ancient archaeological site hidden within lush nature and shrouded in mystery, reached after climbing more than 1,200 stone steps built by the Tayrona culture. The route covers approximately 64 kilometers round trip (32 km ascending and 32 km descending) and is considered moderately to highly challenging due to its demanding terrain, humidity, and constant altitude changes.

Tips: Bring proper hiking equipment, including waterproof shoes, quick-drying clothes, insect repellent, and a headlamp. Access is strictly regulated, and it’s mandatory to hire an authorized tour operator. One of the official operators is Magic Tour, which works in partnership with local indigenous and peasant communities. As with all hiking trails in Colombia, it’s recommended to have medical insurance, keep vaccinations up to date, and follow environmental guidelines to help preserve this extraordinary natural and cultural sanctuary.

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Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza, Cundinamarca / Colombian Eastern Andes

An excellent option near Bogotá is Chingaza National Natural Park, offering a unique hiking and trekking experience through diverse páramo ecosystems. Just two hours from the capital, this park protects pristine lagoons, vast frailejón fields, and foggy forests that provide water to over 10 million people. Along the trails, hikers cross rural paths and landscapes of lagoons, hills, and high mountains, with opportunities to spot a wide variety of wildlife. Some of the most popular routes include Lagunas de Siecha (13 km, high difficulty), Cuchillas de Siecha (7 km, high), Rincón del Oso (6 km), and Suasie (5.5 km, medium difficulty), offering options for both short hiking trips in Colombia and more demanding adventures.

Tips: To make the most of your hiking vacation Bogotá, bring proper gear: waterproof shoes, layered thermal clothing, a windbreaker, hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Entry to the park requires prior reservation, and hiring an authorized guide is strongly recommended to help preserve this delicate ecosystem. Always respect local wildlife and follow environmental guidelines to protect this incredible part of Colombia’s natural heritage.

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Chorro de las Campanas, Envigado, Antioquia / Western Colombian Andes

Near Medellín, a great option for hiking in Colombia is Chorro de las Campanas, a trail located in the Arenales de Envigado, just 40 minutes from the city center. This route winds through Andean forest and follows the La Miel gorge until reaching a stunning 60-meter waterfall, set in a peaceful natural environment away from urban noise. The trail combines rural roads and rainforest paths, with several river crossings and stone steps, offering an active and refreshing experience. The route is moderately difficult, with distances ranging from 4 to 9 km depending on the starting point, and can take 3 to 6 hours to complete.

Tips: For this hiking trip in Colombia, wear sturdy shoes that can get wet, as you’ll cross rivers multiple times. Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a light raincoat, plenty of water, and snacks. Several local agencies offer guided tours, which include insurance and professional support. Always take care of the environment, respect the local flora and fauna, and stick to marked paths to help preserve this beautiful ecosystem near the Aburrá Valley.

Pico de Loro Farallones, Valle del Cauca/ Colombian Pacific

For those seeking a challenging hiking trip in Colombia, the trek to Pico de Loro in Cali’s Farallones National Park is unmissable. This route blends high-intensity hiking with a journey through foggy forests, deep canyons, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Cordillera Occidental. The hike starts at the El Topacio Environmental Education Center (approximately 1,718 m asl) and ascends along a tropical rainforest trail, passing ferns, orchids, and oaks, until reaching the summit of Pico de Loro. Covering around 9 km round trip, the route is considered medium to high difficulty, making it perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure travel combined with physical training in nature.

Tips: Wear traction shoes, quick-drying clothing, waterproof layers, gloves, and a cap. Bring sunscreen, water, and energy snacks. Hiring an authorized local guide is mandatory due to park regulations. Additionally, it’s recommended to carry insect repellent, a first aid kit, and always respect environmental guidelines by staying on marked paths.

Cerro Azul, Guaviare / Amazonía – Orinoquía Colombiana

The Cerro Azul Route offers a unique hiking experience in Colombia that blends nature, culture, and ancestral heritage. This approximately 3.4 km circular trail is guided by local experts from San José del Guaviare to the Serranía de la Lindosa. The path winds through restored jungle, pastures, and forest, culminating in panels of ancient cave paintings dating back 12,000 years, and a viewpoint overlooking the Amazon rainforest. Along the way, hikers pass through a natural cave, encounter impressive rock formations, and connect directly with the region’s ancestral history and cultural heritage.

Tips: Wear non-slip shoes, lightweight quick-drying clothing, a hat, sunscreen, eco-friendly insect repellent, and carry water. Access must be with an authorized local guide, who provides insights into the rock paintings and surrounding environment. Always follow signage, do not touch the petroglyphs, stay on the trail, and respect cultural and environmental guidelines to help preserve this archaeological and natural treasure.

Colombia is an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Colombia nature travel experience. The country offers a vast network of hiking trails that allow you to explore breathtaking landscapes and incredible biodiversity. Whether you hike for sport, adventure, or simply as a hobby, each trail tells its own story. Dare to explore and discover why Colombia is an unmissable destination for those who love hiking in Colombia and want to experience it in its purest, most exciting form.