Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (The Three Peaks)

Route Typology: High-Altitude Glacial Access Treks. El Cocuy is home to Colombia’s most extensive remaining glacier system and is protected within a National Natural Park. Due to environmental sensitivity and agreements with the U'wa indigenous community, the former multi-day circuit is replaced by three strictly regulated day-hikes. These routes climb from the 'Páramo' (high-altitude moorland) through rocky moraines to the permitted edge of the glaciers. The most iconic feature is the 'Púlpito del Diablo,' a massive monolithic rock towering over the Pan de Azúcar ice field. With trailheads starting at 3,900m and peaking near 5,000m, this is a serious high-alpine challenge requiring deep respect for the environment and local regulations.

The Apolobamba Traverse is a remote, high-altitude backpacking route in the northern Bolivian Andes. Spanning approximately 92km between the villages of Pelechuco and Curva, the trek crosses the ancestral territory of the Kallawaya people—traditional herbalists recognized by UNESCO. The route follows ancient stone paths and animal trails, staying almost exclusively above 4,200m. It traverses several high passes, including the 5,100m Sunchuli Pass, offering direct views of the 6,000m peaks of the northern Apolobamba range. Due to its distance from major cities, it remains one of the least-trafficked and most preserved regions of the Bolivian Andes.