Quick FactsOverview
About Termales La Cabana
CURRENTLY CLOSED: Cortolima (Corporacion Autonoma Regional del Tolima) imposed an indefinite suspension of activities at Termales La Cabana in late June 2024 due to environmental violations including untreated wastewater discharge, illegal water extraction, and occupation of natural drainage channels. As of August 2025, the closure remains in effect with no confirmed reopening date. Verify current status before planning any visit and do not attempt illegal access.
Termales La Cabana is a natural volcanic hot spring at approximately 3,950 metres above sea level in the buffer zone of Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados, in the vereda La Cabana, Murillo, Tolima Department. The springs are heated by geothermal activity from Nevado del Ruiz and are notable for mineral-rich waters that shift from blue to deep green. The surrounding Paramo La Leonera Alta contains frailejones, wetlands, and high-altitude flora. The 9-kilometre circuit trail visits Laguna Corazon at 4,100 metres, Valle de Esponjas, the Quebrada de los 7 Colores waterfall, and the pools. A small on-site restaurant served traditional food. Entry was paid, required a wristband, and was limited to authorised guided groups only.
Location & Access
Getting to Termales La Cabana
Termales La Cabana is at vereda La Cabana, Murillo, Tolima Department, Colombia, in the buffer zone of Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados. The base town is Murillo, approximately 144 kilometres from Ibague and 45 minutes by car from Libano, Tolima. From Bogota, the overland journey to Murillo takes approximately 8 hours, passing through Libano. From Manizales, the route follows the road toward Nevado del Ruiz before descending to Murillo. Bus services from Bogota to Libano depart Terminal del Sur with onward connections to Murillo.
From Murillo, the trailhead parking at Finca La Cabana entrance is approximately 16 kilometres along a fully paved road, about 30 minutes by vehicle. Parking costs 8,000 COP for cars and 6,000 COP for motorcycles. The authorised hike from the trailhead is 2.8 kilometres one-way, ascending from 3,786 to 3,950 metres, taking approximately 2 hours. The full 9-kilometre circuit takes approximately 8 hours. Due to the current indefinite closure, confirm reopening with local operators in Murillo or with Cortolima directly before making any travel plans. All visits require an authorised guide and prior reservation; independent access has never been permitted at this site.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Termales La Cabana Suits
When operational, Termales La Cabana suits physically fit hikers comfortable with high-altitude paramo conditions and strenuous multi-hour ascents. The spring sits at 3,950 metres in a protected ecosystem that requires guided entry, prior reservation, and appropriate equipment. It is not suitable for casual visitors, families with young children, or people with altitude sensitivity. The distinctive mineral-coloured pools, frailejón landscapes, and panoramic views of Nevado del Ruiz make it one of the most visually striking hot spring destinations in Colombia when open.
The experience is closer to a high-altitude trekking day than a spa visit. The water is not especially hot due to the altitude, but the pools offer a warm soak after a demanding hike through paramo ecosystems found nowhere else in the world. The trail also passes Laguna Corazon at 4,100 metres, the Valle de Esponjas, and the Quebrada de los 7 Colores. The full circuit takes approximately 8 hours and requires solid physical fitness.
Given the current indefinite closure, prospective visitors should monitor official Cortolima communications and consult registered local operators in Murillo for reopening news. During the closure, alternative routes in the Murillo area such as Termales Canaan remain available through local operators.
Safety & Etiquette
Termales La Cabana Safety Tips
Termales La Cabana is currently closed by Cortolima order. Attempting to enter the property without authorisation is illegal, environmentally harmful, and physically dangerous. The paramo ecosystem at these altitudes is fragile; off-trail movement can permanently damage frailejones that take decades to regrow. Respect all closures and do not attempt access until a confirmed official reopening is announced.
When the site reopens, the primary safety considerations are high altitude, strenuous terrain, cold and variable weather, and the requirement for an authorised guide. The trailhead starts at 3,786 metres and ascends to over 4,100 metres; altitude sickness is a real risk for visitors from low elevations. Spend at least one night in Murillo to acclimatise before the hike. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, and dizziness; descend immediately if they appear. Do not apply sunscreen or skin cream before entering the pools, as these disrupt the mineral chemistry and ecosystem of the water.
Weather in the paramo changes rapidly; bring windproof and waterproof layers regardless of morning conditions, and waterproof or rubber boots. Trekking poles are provided by operators and should be used on the muddy terrain. Carry sufficient water and food for the full 8-hour circuit. Do not light fires anywhere in the paramo zone. The circuit passes Laguna Corazon at 4,100 metres where sudden cold and wind exposure is possible; maintain a moderate pace to avoid overheating followed by rapid chilling. Book well in advance for holiday periods as daily visitor capacity is strictly limited.
