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Cumbal Volcano
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Cumbal Volcano is the southernmost active volcano in Colombia, located in the Nariño department near the border with Ecuador. It reaches an impressive elevation of 4,764 meters and is a prominent feature of the Andean landscape. The volcano has an elongated summit structure with two main craters, Mundo Nuevo and La Plazuela, both showing signs of geothermal activity through fumaroles. Historically, Cumbal is known for its sulfur mines, which were operated at high altitudes. The area surrounding the volcano is inhabited by the Pastos indigenous communities, for whom the mountain holds sacred significance. Ecologically, the region is characterized by the páramo, which plays a vital role in the local water system. Due to its location and potential activity, Cumbal is constantly monitored by the Colombian Geological Service to ensure the safety of nearby settlements such as Cumbal and Guachucal.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Iglesia · Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol
- Nearby: Ipiales (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 95 | 94 | 117 | 133 | 100 | 56 | 36 | 23 | 36 | 80 | 103 | 95 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The starting point for this highest peak in southern Colombia is typically found in the nearby municipality of the same name, Cumbal.
Best season
Early morning hours during the dry season offer the best chances of reaching the summit before heavy clouds and bad weather roll in.
Terrain & paths
The terrain on this active stratovolcano is characterized by extremely steep, rugged volcanic rock and deep, challenging ash fields.
What to bring
Heavy mountaineering boots, specialized cold-weather clothing, and ample drinking water are strictly required for this demanding climb.
Parking
Parking spaces are generally available in the town of Cumbal or in limited capacity directly at the lower starting points of the trails.
Safety
Visitors must always be prepared for active volcanic degassing; extreme high altitudes and freezing temperatures require utmost caution.
Time needed
The arduous ascent and subsequent descent typically consume a full, physically demanding day for fit mountain hikers.
Geography
Facts
- At 4,764 meters, Cumbal is the highest mountain in the Nariño department.
- The volcano features two active craters located about 600 meters apart.
- The last confirmed eruption occurred in the year 1926.
- Historically, sulfur was mined at altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters.
- The Laguna de Cumbal, a significant lake, is located on its slopes.
- Air temperatures at the summit can drop to -10 degrees Celsius at night.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Cumbal Volcano (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which volcano is the highest in southern Colombia?
Vulkan Cumbal, with an altitude of 4764m.
Is sulfur mined there?
Yes, locals traditionally mine sulfur on its slopes.
Are there glaciers there?
There are no permanent glaciers left, only snowfields.
What is the climb like?
Challenging due to altitude and often poor weather.
Which city is closest?
The town of the same name, Cumbal, lies at the foot of the volcano.
Cumbal Volcano: where is it located?
Cumbal Volcano is located in Colombia.
Cumbal Volcano: what is there to see?
Highlights include Iglesia, Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol.
Cumbal Volcano: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Cumbal Volcano: why is it worth visiting?
Cumbal Volcano is the southernmost active volcano in Colombia, located in the Nariño department near the border with Ecuador.
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Nearby cities
Pasto
High-altitude city in the south, famous for its carnival.
Ipiales
Border city with Ecuador, famous for the Las Lajas Sanctuary.
San Gabriel
A historic city in the Carchi province, forming part of Ecuador's National Cultural Heritage.
Tulcán
The northernmost city in Ecuador on the border with Colombia, known for its unique cemetery.
Ibarra
The white city is appreciated for its colonial white facades and pleasant climate.
Atuntaqui
The textile capital of Ecuador, where craftsmanship and industry meet.
Archidona
Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.
Tena
The heart of Amazon tourism, known for world-class whitewater rafting and jungle tours.
Cotacachi
A peaceful Andean town globally famous for its fine leather goods and stunning crater lake.
Otavalo
The indigenous capital of Ecuador, known worldwide for its colorful craft market.
Misahuallí
Misahuallí is a popular Amazonian river port, famous for the wild monkeys living in its central plaza.
Puyo
The dynamic commercial center on the threshold of the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest.
History & landmarks
Nature
La Cocha Lagoon
A large volcanic lake in southern Colombia, surrounded by páramo landscape.
Yahuarcocha
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Lake San Pablo
Lake San Pablo is Ecuador's largest lake, situated at the foot of the majestic Imbabura Volcano near Otavalo.
Cuicocha Lake
Cuicocha is a stunning crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano, featuring two small islands in its center.
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Pastaza River
The Pastaza River flows from the Ecuadorian Andes to the Amazon basin and is known for its deep gorges and waterfalls.
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Galeras Volcano
One of Colombia's most active volcanoes, located very close to the city of Pasto.
Doña Juana Volcano
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Port of Tumaco
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Cayambe
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Reventador Volcano
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