Mountain hike
Cueva del Esplendor, Jardín: routes, entry fee, timing and what to pack
A creek pours through a hole in a cave roof and falls into a pool inside. To see it you climb to about 2,300 meters. It is the trip that shapes a visit to Jardín the most, so plan it first.
- 2,300 mapproximate altitude
- 5 kmfrom Alto de las Flores
- COP 20,000entry (2025)
- 5 to 6 hjeep and horse tour
First, the reserve office
The cave sits inside the Cueva del Esplendor Nature Reserve, on the ridge between Jardín and Támesis. The town tourism portal says entry, insurance and the ranger fee are paid at the office in town, Carrera 2A #14-118 (phone 316 515 2000). Horses and transport are also hired there: according to the same source, only the reserve provides those services to the cave.
The two routes
| Route | What it is like | Walking time |
|---|---|---|
| Alto de las Flores | Drive to the pass, then walk about 5 km through pasture and forest | 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way |
| La Selva | Steeper, through the La Selva area | 2 to 3 hours each way |
Times published by Senderismo Colombia and the Jardín tourism portal.
The option most sold in town combines all three: a jeep as far as the road goes, a horse for the muddy stretch and a final walk to the cave mouth. It lasts five to six hours and includes guide, boots, horses and a packed lunch, according to the offer listed on the town portal.
Do you need a guide?
It is recommended. The trail forks between farms, fog rolls in fast and the last part crosses wet rocks. If you go on your own, you still pay the entry at the office before setting out.
What to bring
- Rubber boots; many tours include them.
- A rain jacket, since it is cold up there and rains without warning.
- Clothes you can get wet if you want to get close to the fall.
- Water, snacks and cash for the entry fee.
Leave early. In the rainy months (April, May, September and October, according to the IDEAM station) afternoons often bring downpours. More in Jardín weather.
Sleeping near the trailhead
Tours leave from town, so any hotel in the town center works. For an early start without arranging transport, a hotel near the square is the practical pick; another well-rated option is Hotel La Selva. Also see all reviewed hotels. After the cave your legs will want a hot tub: there are options in hotels with a pool.
If you have energy left the next day, the short outing is La Garrucha and Cristo Rey.
Frequently asked questions
How much is entry to Cueva del Esplendor?
How much walking is it?
Can children go?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.