Termales del Ruiz
El Ruiz, Caldas, Colombia, Colombia
- Location
- El Ruiz, Caldas, Colombia, Colombia
- Temperature
- 42 °C
- pH
- 6.5
Water profile
Thermicity
Sedative
LowHigh
Relaxing — deep, immediate muscle release.
Mineralisation
Bio-active
LowHigh
Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
SoufreSulfuresSulfates
At the foot of Nevado del Ruiz volcano, in Colombia's Caldas department, sulfurous, silica-rich water emerges at 42°C in an open-air pool. The site retains a wild character, with little in the way of tourist infrastructure.
Insider tip — Termales del Ruiz perch at over 3,500 m on the flanks of Nevado del Ruiz, one of Colombia's most active volcanoes, making this one of the highest-altitude thermal bathing sites in South America. The sulfurous silica-rich waters contrast dramatically with the surrounding paramo ecosystem of frailejones and glaciers. Bring a warm jacket — air temperatures near freezing make the steaming pools feel like paradise, and the altitude demands a slow acclimatization before a long soak.
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How hot is the water?
The water runs quite hot here, around 42 °C — a sedative water that brings immediate muscle release.
What type of water is found here?
This spot features sulfurous & silica water.
What is the best season to visit?
The most favourable period for this spot is: Saison sèche.