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La Loma Coal Mine

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La Loma Coal Mine (Colombia)

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The La Loma coal mine, primarily operated by Drummond Ltd., is one of the most productive mining sites in the Cesar Department of northern Colombia. Part of the larger Cesar coal basin, this mine has been instrumental in positioning Colombia as a top global exporter of thermal coal. Since operations commenced in the mid-1990s, La Loma has evolved into a sophisticated mining complex utilizing advanced extraction machinery and logistical frameworks. The coal is transported via a high-capacity railway to Puerto Drummond, a specialized terminal located near Santa Marta, for distribution to international markets. The mine is a vital engine for the economic development of the Cesar Department, providing thousands of direct and indirect jobs for the local population. Drummond has implemented various social responsibility and environmental mitigation programs at La Loma to address the ecological challenges of open-pit mining. The site is noted for producing low-sulfur, high-calorific coal that is highly sought after by power plants worldwide. Its ongoing expansion remains a cornerstone of Colombia's national mining and export strategy.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C303132312930303029272728
Rain mm9102756115746981931369936

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
La Loma Coal Mine is one of the largest open-pit hard coal mines in Colombia located in the Cesar Department. It is operated by the multinational company Drummond and is of enormous importance for Colombia's coal industry and exports.
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Visiting
The mine site is not open to the public for safety reasons, but there are viewpoints along the access roads from which the scale of the open pit is visible. Pre-approvals for tours are rare and only possible for special occasions.
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Where to view it
A marked viewpoint on the hill along highway 45 gives an impressive view of the terraced pit benches and the huge haul trucks. Another good spot is the bridge over the Cesar River south of the plant.
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Local products
In surrounding villages like La Loma, local markets sell agricultural products such as yucca, plantains, and coffee. The region is also known for traditional handcrafts and hammocks made from iraca palm.
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Active season
Mining operates year-round, but peak production occurs in the drier months from December to March, when extraction is less affected by rain. The loading facilities at the nearby Chiriguaná railway station are then at their busiest.
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Nearby
A visit to the mine can be combined with exploring the „Serranía del Perijá“ natural park or a trip to the „Embalse de Betania“ reservoir. The city of Valledupar with its Vallenato music festival features cultural variety.

Geography

Coordinates
9.61060, -73.57960

Facts

  • Operated by Drummond Ltd. within the Cesar coal basin.
  • Large-scale extraction began at the site in the mid-1990s.
  • Exports are handled through the private Puerto Drummond terminal.
  • Produces high-quality coal known for its low sulfur content.
  • A primary driver of the economy in the Cesar Department.
  • Utilizes heavy haul trucks with capacities up to 240 tons.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sierra Nevada de Santa MartaSierra Nevada de Santa Marta40 km · EExplore →
Pico Simón BolívarPico Simón Bolívar40 km · EExplore →
AguachicaAguachica41 km · WExplore →
ValleduparValledupar45 km · NEExplore →
OcañaOcaña50 km · NWExplore →
PalominoPalomino51 km · EExplore →
Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)59 km · SEExplore →
Serranía del PerijáSerranía del Perijá66 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town La Loma Coal Mine (1)

Parroquia Santo Cristo📍 landmark

This church serves the mining community near the large Drummond coal mine.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the La Loma mine located?
In the Cesar department, one of Colombia's most important coal mining regions.
Who operates the mine?
The mine is operated by Drummond Ltd., a U.S. company.
What is mined at La Loma?
High-quality thermal coal is extracted here for the global market.
Is the mine open to visitors?
Only with special permission for professional groups or educational purposes.
What is its significance for the local economy?
It creates thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to export revenues.
La Loma Coal Mine: where is it located?
La Loma Coal Mine is located in Colombia.
La Loma Coal Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
La Loma Coal Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The La Loma coal mine, primarily operated by Drummond Ltd., is one of the most productive mining sites in the Cesar Department of northern Colombia.
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Nearby cities

Valledupar — La Loma Coal Mine (Colombia)
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The musical heart of Vallenato music.
Aguachica — La Loma Coal Mine (Colombia)
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Second largest city in Cesar, an important logistical hub.
Ocaña — La Loma Coal Mine (Colombia)
Ocaña
City of historical importance near the Venezuelan border.
Palomino — La Loma Coal Mine (Colombia)
Palomino
Palomino is a laid-back coastal town where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the Caribbean Sea.
Minca — La Loma Coal Mine (Colombia)
Minca
A lush mountain village in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, famous for coffee farms and waterfalls.

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