On a clear morning, the burly summit of Volcán Puracé can be seen towering over the historic center of Popayán in a postcard-perfect Latin American landscape. From a distance, the mountain appears to be idle and lethargic, especially when it's covered with a layer of fresh snow, but take a trip up into the Parque Nacional Natural Puracé to discover another side to one of the country’s most active volcanoes.
Indigenous Operated
Situated around 45km east of Popayán on the road to La Plata, the 830-sq-km park covers a large part of the Coconuco volcanic range, maxing out at the 4750m-high Puracé, and is made up of numerous distinct ecosystems including delicate plant-filled páramos and barren sand-covered peaks. The vast majority of the park is located within the ancestral territory of the Puracé Indigenous group who administer the reserve and members of which can be hired to act as guides (per group COP$60,000).
Spotting the Andean Condor
Parque Nacional Natural Puracé is the best place in Colombia to observe the enormous Andean condor up close. These birds can be spotted on an adventurous 13km circuit that also takes in beautiful lakes, waterfalls and the magical Termales de San Juan where the piping hot waters bubble up among ethereal mountain plains. These springs are just for admiration rather than immersion.
Hike the Summit
In good weather, it’s possible to hike to the summit of Volcán Puracé to check out the incredible sulfur-spewing volcanic vents. Note that in recent times the summit hike has often been restricted due to increased volcanic activity so check in Popayán before heading out; when the peak is closed it's still possible to hike around the lower reaches of the mountain with park guides.
For a hardcore adventure try the Puracé Challenge from Popayán Tours (popayantours.com) which combines the summit hike with a 54km downhill bicycle ride back to Popayán.
