Hot Springs in Colombia – Famous Retreats and Hidden Gems

Colombia is a paradise for nature lovers – and thanks to its many volcanoes and unique geology, you'll find relaxing hot springs in every corner of the country. From popular thermal resorts in the Andes to secluded natural pools in the jungle, Colombia offers a rich variety of experiences for those seeking rest and wellness. This guide takes you through the most famous and some off-the-beaten-path hot springs, organized by region.

Santa Rosa de Cabal – Majestic Waterfall Springs in the Coffee Region

In the heart of the Coffee Triangle lies Santa Rosa de Cabal – home to arguably the most impressive hot springs in Colombia. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich pools while a spectacular waterfall cascades down a lush green cliff next to you. This is the experience offered at the Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal. Two thermal complexes – a public spa and a hotel-resort – let you unwind in steaming waters (~38–40°C), surrounded by cloud forests and mountain scenery. After hiking through coffee plantations or adventuring in the area, few things feel better than these warm baths. A visit during the week promises more serenity and space to enjoy this natural wonder.

Natural Beauty at San Vicente, Risaralda

Also located in the Risaralda region, near Santa Rosa, is a true hidden gem: the San Vicente Thermal Reserve. Deep in a 472-hectare nature reserve at the edge of Los Nevados National Park, this collection of wild hot springs feels like a secret sanctuary. You’ll find eleven pools of varying temperatures and even a natural thermal stream that winds through the forest. Surrounded by birdsong, misty trees and the sounds of distant waterfalls, the experience is profoundly grounding. San Vicente offers natural, undeveloped hot spring charm with basic yet comfortable infrastructure. A perfect balance between adventure and deep relaxation.

Termales del Ruiz – Soaking Near a Snow-Capped Volcano

Further north in the Central Andes, you’ll find a unique high-altitude spa: the Termales del Ruiz, nestled at 3,500 meters above sea level near the active Nevado del Ruiz volcano. This mountain lodge and thermal complex features open-air pools with spectacular views of snow-covered peaks. Rich in sulfur and minerals, the warm waters here are ideal for soothing the body in the cold, crisp mountain air. The surroundings are also a birdwatcher's paradise, with hummingbirds and other Andean species fluttering nearby. Termales del Ruiz offers a perfect combination of hot water, cool climate and breathtaking landscape – an unforgettable experience.

Paipa, Boyacá – Wellness in the Colonial Highlands

In the eastern highlands of Boyacá, about three hours north of Bogotá, lies the small town of Paipa – Colombia’s best-known health resort. Its geothermal waters have been cherished for generations. The Paipa Thermal Institute offers public pools, mud treatments, and spa therapies. Nearby, the Sochagota Lake hosts charming hotels like the D’Acosta Hotel Sochagota, where private thermal pools and wellness packages await. Just outside town, you can visit Pozo Azul, a natural spring that bubbles at near-boiling temperatures – an impressive sight. In Paipa, culture, history, and wellness come together beautifully, especially when combined with visits to nearby colonial towns like Villa de Leyva or Iza.

Escapes Close to Bogotá – Choachí and Chocontá

Just a short trip from Bogotá, you can find peaceful hot spring getaways in the Andes. To the east lies Choachí, a tranquil mountain village home to the Santa Mónica Hot Springs. The water here bubbles out of the ground at 80°C and is cooled to a comfortable soaking temperature (~38°C). The facility, set amid green mountains, is ideal for escaping the city’s bustle – especially at night, when you can stargaze from the warm pools. North of Bogotá in Chocontá, you’ll find the Termales Los Volcanes, a cozy family-run thermal park with several pools and even a natural steam cave. These two destinations are ideal day trips from the capital.

Tropical Waters in Rivera, Huila

Hot springs aren't limited to the mountains. In the southern department of Huila, near the town of Rivera, you’ll find geothermal waters in a tropical setting. Just outside the city of Neiva, the Los Ángeles Termal complex offers a relaxing spa experience in a lush environment. The water emerges at 42°C and is channeled into a variety of warm and cool pools surrounded by dry tropical forest. The setting, complete with birds and palm trees, is perfect for a quiet soak after a day of exploring the Tatacoa Desert or on the road to the San Agustín archaeological park. Rivera’s springs are lesser-known and provide an authentic, local experience.

Jungle Adventure – Thermal Springs on the Pacific Coast

For the intrepid traveler, Colombia’s Pacific coast offers one of the most unusual hot spring experiences in the country. Near the coastal village of Nuquí in the Chocó region, a small hot spring bubbles from the jungle ground just steps from the ocean. A short hike through tropical rainforest or along the Guachalito beaches leads you to natural thermal pools where you can bathe while listening to ocean waves and jungle sounds. This is not a spa facility, but a raw, wild thermal spring maintained by the local community. Especially during whale-watching season (July–October), this region offers a chance to combine beach, rainforest and natural hot water in one incredible adventure.

Southern Treasures – Thermal Springs in Nariño and Cauca

Far off the tourist trail in Colombia’s deep south, you’ll find more hidden geothermal treasures. In Nariño, near the Ecuadorian border, hot springs like Termales de Tajumbina (near La Cruz) emerge from the Doña Juana volcano and pour down rocks into natural pools at the base. The setting is pristine – clouds drift through the highlands, and the air smells faintly of sulfur and earth. In Cauca, the rustic Termales de Coconuco offer a similarly raw, healing experience with mud baths, herbal saunas and local hospitality. These places are simple but deeply rewarding for travelers seeking authentic, off-grid wellness surrounded by rugged Andean landscapes.

From lush cloud forests to volcanic highlands, tropical valleys to Pacific jungles – Colombia’s hot springs are as diverse as its landscapes. Whether you're looking for a luxurious spa or a wild, natural pool, there’s a geothermal retreat waiting to welcome you. And beyond the relaxation, hot springs offer an intimate connection to Colombia’s living earth. As part of your journey through this beautiful country, we at Chaska Tours would be delighted to include these unique places in your itinerary. Let us help you discover Colombia’s healing waters, far from the crowds – and close to nature.

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