International Recommendations
What you need to know to enjoy the mountains safely.
- Conscious physical preparation: You don't need to be an athlete, but you do need to arrive prepared. Recomendamos iniciar un training plan Specifically designed for mountain training 6–8 weeks prior, focusing on endurance, stability, and pace control. If you don't know where to start, our team will guide you through the preparation process.
- Appropriate equipment (not excessive) More equipment does not mean a better experience. We tell you exactly what to bring according to the route, altitude and season.
- Your attitude and mindset are fundamental: The mountain demands patience, listening and respect. We recommend traveling with a willingness to adapt, not to impose expectations.
- Our mountain expeditions are designed according to levels of physical and technical difficulty in each country. If you are unsure which expedition is ideal for you, our team of advisors will help you choose your ideal experience.
- Documentation and immigration requirements: each country has specific entry requirements. We will inform you in advance about entry requirements to avoid any problems.
- Altitude, long journeys, and body adaptation: International travel, time zone changes, and altitude affect physical performance. That's why we design itineraries that allow for gradual adaptation, prioritizing your well-being from day one.
- Comprehensive on-site logistics: We coordinate transfers, meals, campsites, and route schedules with experienced local teams. This allows you to focus on what matters most: hiking, adapting, and enjoying the experience without distractions.
- Safety and Decision Making In the mountains, safety is dynamic. Our guides constantly assess conditions and make responsible decisions, always prioritizing the safety of the group.
- Our way of traveling: We explore mountains in small groups, on carefully selected routes with local operators, respecting the natural and cultural environment of each destination. This not only improves safety but also enhances the quality of the experience.
Nacional Travel - Colombia
Tolima Volcano & Santa Isabel Volcano - Los Nevados National Natural Park
The high mountains of Los Nevados National Natural Park demand planning, respect for the land, and well-founded technical decisions. Both Nevado del Tolima and Nevado de Santa Isabel present specific conditions that require prior preparation and professional guidance.
-It is recommended to make the reservation at least 2 to 3 months in advance since Colombia has a limited capacity and you need to plan your expedition in advance.
NEVADO DEL TOLIMA (≈ 5.215 msnm)
Due to its altitude and physical demands, El Nevado del Tolima is one of the most challenging routes in the park. Its accumulated elevation gain, long days and mixed terrain demand good cardiovascular fitness, stability and prolonged endurance.
Our itineraries take into account:
- progressive ascents,
- efficient load distribution,
- strategic rest periods,
- constant evaluation of individual pace.
Terrain and conditions
The route presents:
- moorland trails,
- volcanic ash zones,
- sections of loose rock,
- and intense cold conditions at high altitude.
The proper use of technical equipment and correct traffic management are crucial for a safe experience.
Climate and decision-making: Tolima is especially sensitive to abrupt climate changes. Strong winds, dense fog, and sub-zero temperatures can appear without warning. Our guides are constantly assessing the situation.
- visibility,
- ground stability,
- physical condition of the group,
Altitude and adaptation: The Nevado de Santa Isabel, although technically less demanding, is located at a considerable altitude.
NEVADO DE SANTA ISABEL (≈ 4.950 msnm)
Altura y adaptación: El Nevado de Santa Isabel, aunque técnicamente menos exigente, se desarrolla en altura considerable.
It is an ideal route for acclimatization processes or for mountaineers starting out in high mountain terrain.
We design itineraries that allow:
- progressive adaptation,
- controlled walks,
- constant observation of symptoms related to altitude.
Terrain and experience, The route crosses:
- high mountain moorland,
- wet and exposed areas,
- and areas with low temperatures and wind.
Thermal management, pace, and proper hydration are key to comfort and safety.
EQUIPMENT AND TECHNICAL PREPARATION (BOTH ROUTES)
We recommend starting physical preparation 6 to 8 weeks in advance, focusing on:
- aerobic endurance,
- leg and core strength,
- joint stability,
- prolonged walks with a load.
We provide a specific equipment list for each mountain, prioritizing functionality, thermal protection, and efficiency.
SMALL GROUPS AND CONTROLLED LOGISTICS
We limit the size of the groups to:
- to facilitate rhythm control,
- improve security,
- reduce environmental impact,
- and provide close support.
We work with local porters and operators, respecting their knowledge of the territory and the park's regulations.
OUR WAY OF MOUNTAINEERING
We don't seek records or forced summits. We prioritize well-supported processes, responsible decisions, and well-executed technical experiences.
