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Nevado del Ruiz is a majestic stratovolcano located in the Andes Mountains of Colombia, straddling the departments of Caldas and Tolima. Rising to an elevation of 5,321 meters (17,457 feet), it is one of the highest peaks in the country and is renowned for its snow-capped summit and glacial landscapes. The volcano is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park, a protected area that encompasses several other volcanoes and diverse ecosystems. Nevado del Ruiz is not only a natural wonder but also a site of historical significance due to its volcanic activity.
The most common access point to Nevado del Ruiz is through the city of Manizales, which is well-connected by road and air to major Colombian cities. From Manizales, travelers can take the route towards the Termales del Ruiz, a popular hot springs resort located at approximately 3,500 meters above sea level. Continuing past the resort, visitors reach the Brisas sector, the main entrance to Los Nevados National Natural Park. The park's entrance is situated at an altitude of around 4,000 meters. From there, guided tours can take visitors further up the volcano, depending on weather conditions and volcanic activity. It is essential to check the current status of the volcano and park access before planning a visit.
Due to its high elevation, Nevado del Ruiz experiences cold temperatures year-round, with averages ranging between -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F). The weather can change rapidly, with sudden snowstorms and fog common at higher altitudes. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from December to March and July to August. During these periods, the weather is more stable, offering clearer views and safer hiking conditions. Visitors should always be prepared for cold and unpredictable weather, regardless of the season.
Los Nevados National Natural Park is open to visitors from Monday to Sunday, with entry permitted between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Visitors must exit the park by 5:00 p.m. It is mandatory to enter the park with a certified guide, especially when venturing beyond certain altitudes. The park authorities may restrict access to specific areas based on volcanic activity levels, weather conditions, and conservation efforts. It is advisable to check the official website or contact park officials for the latest information before planning a visit.
Nevado del Ruiz is internationally known for its tragic eruption on November 13, 1985, which led to the Armero tragedy. A small eruption melted part of the mountain's ice cap, triggering massive lahars (volcanic mudflows) that buried the town of Armero, resulting in the deaths of over 23,000 people. This disaster highlighted the dangers of volcanic activity and the importance of disaster preparedness. Today, the volcano is closely monitored, and it serves as a case study in volcanic risk management. Beyond its history, Nevado del Ruiz attracts visitors for its stunning glacial landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for mountaineering and ecological tourism.
Nevado del Ruiz has been active for over two million years, with its current volcanic cone forming approximately 150,000 years ago. It is a stratovolcano composed of alternating layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic materials. The volcano's summit features the Arenas crater, which is about 1 kilometer wide and 240 meters deep. Eruptions have been documented since 1570, with varying degrees of intensity. The volcano's activity has shaped the surrounding landscape, creating valleys, moraines, and other geological features. The presence of glaciers and snowfields adds to the mountain's dramatic appearance and contributes to its hydrological significance.
Visitors to Nevado del Ruiz can engage in various activities that showcase the area's natural beauty and geological significance:
