Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Manizales, Caldas, Colombia
1. Pico Real Peak
A challenging hike to Colombia's third-highest peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Altitude Challenge: Reaches an altitude of 4,650 meters above sea level.
- Stunning Scenery: Offers panoramic views of the Central Andes and the Manizales valley.
- Requires Guide: Guided tours are highly recommended due to the challenging terrain.
2. Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados
Explore a national park filled with snow-capped volcanoes and picturesque lakes.
- Volcanic Landscape: Features five active volcanoes, including the Nevado del Ruiz.
- Unique Wildlife: Home to various endemic species like the Andean condor and spectacled bear.
- High Altitude Trails: Trails can reach altitudes above 4,000 meters, making it a physically demanding hike.
3. Cerro de Los Cristales
Hike to a crystal-rich hill where crystals can be found in the riverbed.
- Crystals Treasure Hunt: Visitors can search for quartz, tourmaline, and other minerals.
- Unique Geological Formation: The hill is formed by volcanic rocks containing various minerals.
- Remote Location: Located in a secluded area, requiring a 4x4 vehicle to reach the trailhead.
4. El Cocuy National Park
Experience a pristine alpine landscape with multiple hiking trails and stunning lakes.
- Alpine Beauty: Features high-altitude landscapes, glaciers, and alpine lakes.
- Endemic Flora and Fauna: Home to unique plants and animals found only in this region of Colombia.
- Long Hiking Trails: Offers multiple trails, ranging from one-day hikes to multi-day expeditions.
5. Salamanca Natural Reserve
Discover a cloud forest with unique flora and fauna, including the resplendent quetzal.
- Cloud Forest: Located in the misty highlands, filled with ferns, mosses, and orchids.
- Resplendent Quetzal: One of the few places in Colombia where this beautiful bird can be spotted.
- Endangered Species Protection: Works to protect endangered species like the mountain tapir and Andean condor.
6. La Mesenia Waterfall
Hike through lush forests to a beautiful waterfall cascading into a pool perfect for swimming.
- Swimmable Pool: The pool at the base of the waterfall is deep and safe for swimming.
- Lush Forest Trails: Trail takes hikers through a dense, green forest filled with exotic birds.
- Off the Beaten Path: Less crowded than other popular waterfalls in the area.
7. El Ojo del Agua
Swim and slide down natural waterslides at this crystal-clear natural pool.
- Natural Waterslide: Slides are formed by the riverbed, providing a fun and unique experience.
- Clear Water: Water is crystal clear, making it easy to see fish swimming below.
- Accessible Location: Easily accessible by car, with a short hike to the pool.
8. La Cascada de Mariquita
Hike through coffee plantations to a majestic waterfall, with multiple tiers for exploring.
- Coffee Plantation Hike: Trail takes hikers through traditional coffee farms.
- Multiple Tiers: Waterfall has multiple tiers, providing different viewpoints and swimming spots.
- Accessible Location: Easily accessible by public transportation from Manizales.
9. Los Chancios Natural Reserve
Explore a unique ecosystem with giant capuchin monkeys and other wildlife.
- Giant Capuchins: Home to the world's largest population of giant capuchin monkeys.
- Unique Ecosystem: The reserve protects a unique ecosystem found only in this region of Colombia.
- Community-led Conservation: Conservation efforts are led by the local community, ensuring the preservation of the ecosystem.
10. Parque de la Veredas
Hike through a cloud forest with numerous waterfalls and stunning views.
- Cloud Forest Hike: Trail takes hikers through a dense, green cloud forest.
- Multiple Waterfalls: Features numerous waterfalls along the trail.
- Stunning Views: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
11. El Toro Mountain
Hike to the top of El Toro for breathtaking views of Manizales and the valley below.
- Panoramic Views: Provides panoramic views of Manizales, the surrounding countryside, and nearby volcanoes.
- Moderate Hike: Offers a challenging yet achievable hike for most fitness levels.
- Accessible Location: Located just outside Manizales, making it easily accessible for visitors.
12. San Cayetano Peak
Hike to the top of San Cayetano for breathtaking views of the Central Andes.
- Stunning Views: Provides panoramic views of the Central Andes and surrounding countryside.
- Long Hike: Requires a full day to complete the hike, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience.
- Remote Location: Located in a secluded area, requiring a 4x4 vehicle to reach the trailhead.
13. El Cajón del Agua
Relax and swim in a picturesque natural pool surrounded by lush greenery.
- Natural Pool: The pool is formed by the river, providing a natural swimming experience.
- Lush Greenery: Surrounded by lush greenery and exotic birds, creating a peaceful setting.
- Accessible Location: Easily accessible by car, with a short hike to the pool.
14. El Cocuy Lake
Hike to a pristine alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- Alpine Lake: A clear, blue alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- Endemic Wildlife: Home to various endemic species like the spectacled bear and Andean condor.
- Long Hike: Offers a challenging yet rewarding multi-day hiking experience.
15. La Playa del Cementerio
Relax on a unique beach located inside a cemetery with crystal-clear waters.
- Unique Beach Setting: Located inside a cemetery, providing a surreal and unusual experience.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: The water is crystal clear, making it safe for swimming and exploring.
- Accessible Location: Easily accessible by public transportation from Manizales.