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Doña Juana Volcano
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Mountain
Doña Juana Volcano is a complex stratovolcano situated at the border of the Nariño, Cauca, and Putumayo departments in the Colombian Andes. It consists of two main peaks and reaches an elevation of 4,150 meters above sea level. The volcano is part of the Doña Juana-Cascabel Volcanic National Park, which covers over 65,000 hectares and protects immense biodiversity. The historical activity of Doña Juana is well-documented, particularly the devastating eruption between 1897 and 1906, which caused numerous fatalities. Geologically, the volcano is characterized by the extrusion of andesitic and dacitic magma, leading to explosive eruptions. The surrounding slopes are covered with dense cloud forests and páramo vegetation, feeding vital water sources for the Magdalena and Caquetá rivers. Today, the volcano is closely monitored by the Colombian Geological Service as it remains active and is located near populated areas.
- Location: Colombia
- Nearby: Buenaventura (62 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 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 83 | 86 | 117 | 138 | 114 | 85 | 56 | 43 | 58 | 126 | 161 | 118 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This remote volcano deep within the Colombian Massif is most often approached via well-organized expeditions from local base towns.
Best season
Given the dense, surrounding cloud forest, visiting during the drier months is highly recommended to minimize extremely muddy paths.
Terrain & paths
The trail initially passes through thick, wet vegetation before transitioning into very steep slopes shaped by explosive volcanic activity.
What to bring
Absolute necessities include reliable waterproof clothing, precise navigation tools, and boots that can handle extreme mud conditions.
Parking
Vehicles generally remain securely parked in the nearest established rural villages prior to commencing the long overland trek.
Safety
It is very easy to lose orientation in the dense cloud forest; furthermore, the volcano's explosive history demands great respect and caution.
Time needed
Due to its significant isolation and highly challenging access route, visiting almost always requires a multi-day trekking expedition.
Geography
Facts
- The maximum elevation of the volcanic peak is 4,150 meters.
- The devastating eruption of 1899 caused an estimated 100 fatalities.
- The Doña Juana-Cascabel National Park was established in 2007.
- Important tributaries of the Amazon basin originate in this region.
- The volcano features a horseshoe-shaped caldera open to the northeast.
- Dacitic lava domes form the central part of the summit complex.
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Vulkan Doña Juana located?
In the Complejo Volcánico Doña Juana-Cascabel National Park.
Is the volcano dangerous?
It is an active volcano with historically strong eruptions.
What animals live in the national park?
Spectacled bears, pumas, and condors, among others.
How high is the volcano?
The peak altitude is around 4150m.
Can you visit the area?
Yes, for ecotourism and trekking with a permit.
Doña Juana Volcano: where is it located?
Doña Juana Volcano is located in Colombia.
Doña Juana Volcano: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Doña Juana Volcano: why is it worth visiting?
Doña Juana Volcano is a complex stratovolcano situated at the border of the Nariño, Cauca, and Putumayo departments in the Colombian Andes.
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