Las Hermosas National Park

Las Hermosas Overview

Las Hermosas National Natural Park, known locally as Parque Nacional Natural Las Hermosas, is a protected area located in the central Andean region of Colombia.

Established in May 1977, the park spans approximately 1,250 square kilometers (482 square miles) across the departments of Tolima and Valle del Cauca. The park’s elevation varies significantly, ranging from 1,600 to 4,400 meters (5,249 to 14,436 feet) above sea level, and encompasses diverse ecosystems such as Andean forests, subpáramo, and páramo.

The terrain of Las Hermosas is characterized by rugged mountains, deep canyons, and an impressive network of glacial lakes, totaling around 387 bodies of water. Notable geographic features include the Las Mellizas Lagoon and the canyon formed by the Magdalena and Cauca rivers.

The vegetation within the park is highly diverse, transitioning from dense Andean forests at lower elevations to high-altitude páramo flora. The frailejón, a distinctive plant found in páramo ecosystems, thrives in these misty, windswept landscapes. The park is also home to extensive cloud forests, where moss-covered trees and orchids flourish in the humid conditions.

Wildlife in Las Hermosas is both varied and remarkable, with numerous species adapted to the park’s changing altitudes and microclimates. Among the most notable mammals are the spectacled bear, mountain tapir, cougar, oncilla, pudú, and white-tailed deer.

The spectacled bear, South America’s only bear species, is particularly iconic in the region and plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Birdwatchers visiting the park may encounter a variety of avian species, including hummingbirds, Andean condors, and other high-altitude specialists. The combination of diverse habitats and remote, untouched landscapes makes the park a refuge for many rare and endangered species.

Las Hermosas National Natural Park is popular among visitors seeking adventure and immersion in pristine natural environments. Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the park’s varied landscapes, offering a chance to witness its striking geography and abundant wildlife.

The glacial lakes, scattered throughout the park, provide scenic spots for photography and quiet nature observation. Birdwatching is another major draw, with the park’s rich avian diversity attracting ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike. The challenging terrain also appeals to experienced trekkers looking for demanding yet rewarding expeditions through Colombia’s central Andes.

Conservation efforts in Las Hermosas have faced challenges over the years, particularly due to deforestation, illegal mining, and the effects of climate change. The retreat of glaciers and shifts in temperature have impacted the delicate páramo ecosystems, threatening species that rely on these habitats.

Despite these difficulties, conservation initiatives have been implemented to protect the park’s biodiversity. Local organizations and government agencies have worked together to combat habitat destruction, regulate human activity, and raise awareness about the park’s ecological significance. Efforts to maintain the integrity of its fragile ecosystems continue, ensuring that Las Hermosas remains a sanctuary for both wildlife and future generations of visitors.

Park Map

Las Hermosas National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Las Hermosas National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, featuring a mix of Andean and páramo species.

Andean Condor
One of the largest flying birds in the world, the Andean condor soars over the park’s peaks, scavenging for carrion.

Buffy Helmetcrest
An endangered hummingbird species, the buffy helmetcrest is found exclusively in páramo ecosystems, where it feeds on high-altitude flowers and serves as a key pollinator.

Black-and-chestnut Eagle
A powerful raptor, the black-and-chestnut eagle preys on small mammals and birds in the park’s forests, helping control prey populations.

Masked Trogon
With its striking red and green plumage, the masked trogon is one of the most visually stunning birds in the park. It inhabits the cloud forests, feeding on insects and small fruits.

Golden-fronted Whitestart
A brightly colored warbler species, the golden-fronted whitestart is commonly seen flitting among shrubs and trees in the park’s montane forests.

Sword-billed Hummingbird
This remarkable hummingbird has an extraordinarily long bill, which it uses to feed on nectar from deep flowers, making it an essential pollinator.

Andean Guan
A large, turkey-like bird, the Andean guan forages for fruits and leaves in the cloud forests. It is a vital seed disperser that helps maintain plant diversity.

Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer
This high-altitude bird has a uniquely curved bill that allows it to pierce flowers and extract nectar, playing a crucial role in pollination.

Purple-backed Thornbill
One of the smallest hummingbirds in the park, the purple-backed thornbill is recognized by its iridescent plumage and rapid flight.

Rufous-bellied Nighthawk
A nocturnal species, the rufous-bellied nighthawk is often seen gliding over the páramo at dusk, hunting for insects.

Las Hermosas National Park’s dramatic landscapes, from misty cloud forests to high-altitude páramo, make it one of Colombia’s most ecologically significant protected areas. Whether for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, or adventure seekers, the park offers an incredible opportunity to experience the biodiversity of the Central Andes.

Las Hermosas National Park, located in the Central Andes of Colombia, is a breathtaking protected area known for its high-altitude páramo ecosystems, glacial lakes, and cloud forests. Covering approximately 125,000 hectares, this park is a key water source, feeding major rivers and supplying fresh water to surrounding communities. Its diverse habitats support a remarkable array of Andean wildlife, making it one of Colombia’s most ecologically significant conservation areas.

Spectacled Bear
The only bear species in South America, the spectacled bear inhabits the cloud forests and páramo regions of Las Hermosas. This shy and elusive animal plays a crucial role in seed dispersal.

Puma
A top predator in the park, the puma is highly adaptable and preys on deer, rodents, and other small mammals, helping to maintain the ecological balance.

Andean Tapir
Also known as the mountain tapir, this endangered species thrives in high-altitude forests and páramo. It is an important seed disperser, contributing to forest regeneration.

Neotropical Otter
This semi-aquatic mammal inhabits the park’s rivers and lakes, where it hunts for fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. Its presence is a sign of a healthy water system.

Andean Fox
A versatile carnivore, the Andean fox is found in both the páramo and cloud forests of the park. It preys on small mammals, birds, and insects.

White-tailed Deer
This herbivore is commonly seen in Las Hermosas’ páramo and montane forests. It feeds on shrubs and grasses, shaping the vegetation of its habitat.

Mountain Coati
A relative of the raccoon, the mountain coati is an agile climber that forages for fruits, insects, and small vertebrates in the forest canopy.

Western Dwarf Red Brocket Deer
A small and elusive deer species, it is primarily nocturnal and feeds on fruits and foliage in the dense understory of the park’s forests.

Andean Frog
Several species of Andean frogs inhabit the park’s cloud forests, including many that are endemic to Colombia. These amphibians thrive in the cool, humid conditions.

Northern Pudu
One of the world’s smallest deer species, the northern pudu is a shy, forest-dwelling herbivore that feeds on leaves, fruits, and fungi in the montane forests of Las Hermosas.