Girardot to Los Nevados National Park

Updated: March 14, 2024 08:48 AM

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Getting from Girardot to Los Nevados National Park

Los Nevados National Park is a stunning natural area located in the Colombian Andes, known for its towering peaks, lush valleys, and abundant wildlife. Getting to the park from Girardot, a popular tourist town on the Magdalena River, involves a combination of transportation options. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey:

Language

The official language of Colombia is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including Los Nevados National Park.

Currency

The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). US dollars are also accepted in some places, but it's best to exchange your currency before you arrive.

Distance

The distance from Girardot to Los Nevados National Park is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Girardot to Los Nevados National Park:

• By bus: The most economical option is to take a bus from Girardot to Manizales, the capital of Caldas department. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and costs around 20,000 COP. From Manizales, you can take a taxi or bus to the park entrance, which is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away.
• By car: If you have a rental car, you can drive from Girardot to Los Nevados National Park in about 2 hours. The route is well-maintained and offers scenic views of the Andes mountains.
• By tour: Several tour operators offer day trips to Los Nevados National Park from Girardot. These tours typically include transportation, a guided hike, and lunch. The cost of a tour varies depending on the operator and the itinerary.

Expenses

The cost of getting to Los Nevados National Park from Girardot will vary depending on the transportation option you choose. Here's a rough estimate of the expenses you can expect:

• Bus: 20,000 COP
• Taxi or bus from Manizales to the park entrance: 10,000 COP
• Entrance fee to the park: 25,000 COP
• Tour: 100,000 COP (including transportation, guided hike, and lunch)

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Los Nevados National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During this time, the weather is generally clear and sunny, making it ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and cafes located near the park entrance. You can find a variety of Colombian dishes, including bandeja paisa, sancocho, and arepas. There are also several trout farms in the area, where you can enjoy fresh trout.

Where to Go

Los Nevados National Park is a vast and diverse area, with something to offer everyone. Here are some of the most popular places to visit:

• Nevado del Ruiz: The highest peak in the park, Nevado del Ruiz is a snow-capped volcano that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Laguna del Otún: A beautiful lake located at the foot of Nevado del Ruiz, Laguna del Otún is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
• Valle de Cocora: A lush valley known for its towering wax palms, Valle de Cocora is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
• Termales de Santa Rosa: A natural hot springs located near the park entrance, Termales de Santa Rosa is a great place to relax and soak in the mineral-rich waters.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about getting from Girardot to Los Nevados National Park:

• How long does it take to get to the park? The journey from Girardot to Los Nevados National Park takes approximately 2-3 hours by bus or car.
• Is it possible to hike to the summit of Nevado del Ruiz? Yes, it is possible to hike to the summit of Nevado del Ruiz, but it is a challenging trek that requires technical skills and equipment. It is recommended to hire a guide if you are planning to attempt this hike.
• What are the park hours? Los Nevados National Park is open from 8am to 5pm daily.
• Is there a fee to enter the park? Yes, there is a fee of 25,000 COP to enter Los Nevados National Park.

I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Los Nevados National Park. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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