The 7 Best Hiking Tours in Colombia

Head off on a wildlife-packed hike through the Tropical Dry Forest, just 1 hour away from Cartagena. You’ll be guided through a discovery of the amazing ecosystem with incredible species that were able to adapt to life with no rain. Within the fauna, there is a charismatic monkey, the Cotton Top Tamarin, a small squirrel–size primate that takes the first place as one of Colombia’s most appealing endemic mammals. Through this unique off-the-beaten-path trip you will be immersed in the flora and fauna of this forest while you’re learning, having fun and exercising yourself. With a maximum of 8 people in the group expect a warm, friendly and personal atmosphere.

Journey through the Andes in unique style as you ride along mountain trails in the hills near Bogotá, Colombia during this half-day horseback riding tour. Whilst this isn’t your usual hiking trail, this tour is designed for horse lovers of all levels of experience who want an animal friend to hike with through the Andean nature. If you are wanting to try something new and memorable, this is the tour for you! On this tour, you will pass through Andean terrain and small farms at your own pace, immersing you in the local culture and landscapes of Colombia. You will be provided with a traditional beverage and all necessary equipment, including helmets.

Looking for a longer hiking adventure? This four-day trek departing from Santa Marta on Colombia’s Caribbean coast is an excellent option – particularly if you’re interested in ancient history. You’ll venture deep into the jungle-covered mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park with an experienced guide from the region, eventually arriving at Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City), which was founded by the Tayrona civilization around 800CE. Comfortable camping accommodation, three breakfasts, four lunches and three dinners are included. Both adventurers and nature lovers will enjoy this moderate four-day jungle trek, be prepared to be blown away by the Sierra Nevada mountain range’s natural beauty as you climb to the archaeological site of this ancient mountain city with a professional guide supporting you along the way.

If you’re in Bogotá and want to experience a total contrast to the busy city streets, you can do so on this one-day tour to a nearby nature reserve in the East Hills, part of the Andes mountains. Hike through cloud forests to La Chorrera – the tallest waterfall in Colombia at 590m (1,935ft) – and another smaller waterfall, El Chiflón. You’ll also have the chance to cool off in the rock pools and tuck into a hearty Colombian meal at the end of your hike. Your guide will also provide snacks along the way.

Escape the city and get a taste for Colombia’s rugged side on this day-long excursion to Sumapaz National Park, around two hours south of Bogotá. Here, you’ll hike through the páramo – a high, treeless plateau dotted with hundreds of freshwater lagoons, typical of South American uplands. Learn about the region’s biodiversity, which includes spectacled bears, white deer, pumas and tapirs, among many other species of flora and fauna. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch and visit a local market before returning to Bogotá.

Just half an hour’s drive outside of Bogotá, you’ll arrive at Chicaque Natural Park – a private cloud forest reserve at around 2,700m (8,858ft) above sea level, home to an abundance of species including sloths, oncillas, monkeys and agoutis. Start off at a viewing point with magnificent views overlooking the valley below, hiking 2km (1.2mi) downhill to a lodge where you’ll be able to catch your breath. Continue on to a waterfall before meandering your way through the forest back to the high point of the park. The maximum group size is four, and private transport is included.

To the west of Cali in southwestern Colombia lies Farallones de Cali National Park, characterized by lowland jungle, mountain cloud forest, páramo and over 30 rivers. It’s a great destination to go hiking, and this tour takes you from the Pance River up to Pico de Loro (Parrot’s Beak) at 2,860m (9,383ft) above sea level. It’s a fairly strenuous trek, but you’ll be rewarded with superb views across the national park at the top. Lunch is included, and you’ll also be able to take a dip in the river and nearby creeks at the end.