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Your Guide to Colombia's Hiking Trails: Photos, Filters, and FAQs

3 Hiking Trails

View Trails on map
Guicán Salento Santa Marta
Colombia Static Map Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1

What to expect

Colombia has 3 trails including medium and extra difficult trails. The trail with the highest elevation climb is the Lost City Hike and the one with the least climb is the Guican - El Cocuy Trail. The longest trail is Guican - El Cocuy Trail at 63.4 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 5 days. For a shorter adventure, you can try the Cocora Valley Trek a t 8.44 km. This could be done in as little as 1 days. Trails with the best offering of hostels include Guican - El Cocuy Trail, Cocora Valley Trek, and Lost City Hike.

Guide to hiking in Colombia

Be prepared for hiking in Colombia with the HiiKER app

Hiking app for Colombia
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FAQs about hiking in Colombia

What is the climate like for hiking in Colombia?

Colombia's climate varies by altitude rather than season, with coastal areas being hot and humid, the Andean region cooler, and the Amazon rainforest hot and wet. Despite this, Colombia has two main seasons - dry (December to March, July and August) and wet.
For hikers, the dry season offers the best conditions, especially for high-altitude treks like the popular Ciudad Perdida or Cocuy National Park, with less rainfall making the trails more accessible and views clearer.
However, even during the dry season, rainfall can occur, especially in the Amazon region. Hikers should always be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack accordingly. For detailed weather information, consult the Colombia Travel website. [Link: www.colombia.travel]

Do I need a permit to hike in Colombia?

For hiking in Colombia's national parks or protected areas like Cocuy or Los Nevados, permits are usually required and can be obtained at the park entrances or in advance online. For specific information and to arrange permits, contact Colombia's National Natural Parks office. [Link: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co]

Is wild camping allowed in Colombia?

In Colombia, wild camping isn't generally permitted, especially within national parks or protected areas. For hikers planning multi-day trips, designated camping sites or refuges are provided along major trails. Always check with the National Natural Parks office or local authorities for regulations. [Link: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co]

Are there mountain rescue services in Colombia?

In case of a hiking emergency in Colombia, the Red Cross (Cruz Roja) or local fire department can offer assistance. It's important to inform park officials of your hiking plans and always carry a charged cell phone with local emergency numbers saved. [Link: www.cruzrojacolombiana.org]

Are there dangerous plants in Colombia?

Hiking in Colombia offers diverse flora, from cloud forest mosses and ferns in the Andean region to vast array of trees in the Amazon. Awareness of flora is important as some plants may cause skin irritation. For a detailed guide, refer to Colombia's National Natural Parks website. [Link: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co]

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Colombia?

Colombia's trails teem with wildlife, from howler monkeys in Tayrona National Park to the elusive jaguars in the Amazon. Hikers should be aware of potential insect-borne diseases like malaria or Zika, especially in jungle areas. For more information on wildlife safety, consult Colombia's National Natural Parks site. [Link: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co]