Laguna Verde (Azufral)
Laguna Verde del Volcán Azufral
A jade-green sulphur lake inside the crater of the Azufral volcano at about 3,900 metres, the most dramatic hiking destination in Nariño.
Laguna Verde lies inside the dormant Azufral volcano crater, near Tuquerres. Minerals including sulphur give the water its vivid emerald colour. Nearby are a black lake and a cold lake, and sulphur vapours rise from the shore. The hike from the parking area to the viewpoint on the crater rim takes about 1.5 to 2 hours one way, covering about 5 km. It crosses paramo highland, where frailejón plants grow, before descending to the lake. The altitude can cause altitude sickness, and the weather changes quickly, so bring windproof and waterproof clothing. The reserve is managed by local indigenous communities, charges a small entrance fee and has set visiting hours. It is about 2 hours by car from Pasto.
Opening hours
Entry approx. 07:00–15:00 (per nature reserve)
Nearby sights
- Las Lajas Sanctuary
- Sandoná
- Galeras Volcano
- Taminango Museum
- Church of Santiago Apóstol
- Carnival Museum
- Church of La Merced
- Pasto Cathedral