3-Day Crossing Potosi – Otun Lagoon – El Cedral desde Salento

“We don’t operate commercial high-altitude treks. We design authentic treks where the goal is not just to reach the summit, but to do so safely, consciously, and responsibly.”

Our approach combines:

• Real operational safety

• Applied environmental education

• Mountain pace (not mass tourism)

• Integration with local communities

The Salento-Laguna del Otún-Potosí Traverse is a high-altitude trek that crosses one of the most complete and scenic sections of Los Nevados National Natural Park, connecting different Andean ecosystems through an altitudinal gradient that ranges from cloud forest to high-altitude páramo.

The route begins in the Cocora Valley, progressing along trails that delve into the high-altitude forest, with river crossings, wetlands, and gradual ascents that allow for a gradual acclimatization to the altitude. As the trail gains altitude, the landscape transforms into páramo ecosystems, dominated by frailejones (Espeletia plants), high-mountain vegetation, and sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks of Tolima, Santa Isabel, and the Paramillo del Quindío.

The route reaches altitudes exceeding 4,200 meters above sea level, where mountain conditions become more demanding: reduced oxygen availability, low temperatures, high solar radiation, and constant exposure to wind. These factors, combined with the varied terrain (muddy sections, long slopes, and rocky areas), make this trek a physically demanding experience that requires good physical condition and adaptability.

One of the most iconic points of the route is the passage through Laguna del Otún, a glacial lake system and one of the park’s main water regulators. This setting, surrounded by páramo and mountains, offers an environment of high ecological and scenic value, making it one of the most important landmarks of the entire trek. The route traverses relatively undisturbed areas, allowing for a more authentic experience and a direct connection with the natural environment. Wildlife sightings and weather conditions are variable and depend on the ecosystem’s behavior.
This trek is not a conventional tourist route, but a true mountain experience, designed with safety, altitude progression, and low environmental impact in mind. It is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a physical challenge, unique landscapes, and complete immersion in the high-altitude ecosystems of the Colombian Andes.