Mochiliante
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Discover everything about the San Juan Hot Springs in Puracé, Cauca. Learn how to get there, where to stay, and what to do. Plan your trip with this practical guide!
The San Juan Hot Springs are located in the Puracé National Natural Park, in the department of Cauca, Colombia. It is a volcanic area known for its dreamy landscapes, diversity of flora and fauna, and of course, the hot springs that spring directly from the bowels of the earth. On the other hand, Coconuco is a neighboring municipality where you will find more accommodation options and other famous hot springs.
The San Juan hot springs are located at an altitude of 3,400 meters above sea level, in a natural environment of lush beauty.
Getting to this natural paradise is easier than you think. Here are the most common routes:
From Popayán (the capital of Cauca): Head to the Popayán transport terminal and take a bus to Coconuco for $10,000 COP. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. From there, you can take local transportation (jeep or moto-taxi) to the San Juan Hot Springs.
You can also hire the The Condor Route Tour.
By own vehicle: From Popayán, take the Pan-American highway towards Puracé. The roads are in good condition and there is adequate signage. Follow the signs to the San Juan Hot Springs.
From other cities: If you are coming from Cali or Pasto, you must first get to Popayán and follow the mentioned routes.
Once at the Hot Springs, travelers must pay during the week the value of 20,000 COP and on weekends and holidays the value of 40,000 COP.
If you plan to travel between today and September 30, 2025 , by booking through Booking with Mochiliante, you can get a 20% discount or more on your next getaway by clicking here
Leguaro hummingbird refuge is in Coconuco and offers accommodation with a balcony and free wifi. This agrotourism has a garden and free private parking. Click here to book.
Glamping Termales Aguatibia is located in Coconuco and has a garden and restaurant. The hotel has family rooms. Click here to book.
Remember to book in advance, especially if you plan to visit during high season or local festivities.
The San Juan Hot Springs, located within the Puracé National Natural Park, are deeply linked to indigenous traditions and the volcanic geography of the region. This special place is part of the "Southern Volcanic Ring" of Colombia, a chain of active volcanoes that include the imposing Puracé Volcano, which gives its name to the natural park where the hot springs are located.
The Puracé region is home to indigenous communities, especially the Yanacona community, which has inhabited this area since pre-Columbian times. For these communities, the hot springs have always had a spiritual and medicinal meaning.
Enjoy the hot springs: These mineral waters help to relax the body, relieve stress and improve circulation, it is important to know that in the San Juan hot springs you will not be able to immerse yourself, but near Coconuco there are hot springs designed for swimming.
Hiking: There are hiking routes to explore the nearby mountains and observe the local fauna, such as the majestic Andean condor.
Photo by @hernan_ariasm
Waterfalls and natural pools: Ideal places to enjoy the serenity of the landscape.
Don't forget your camera or cell phone! The landscapes are simply cinematic.
For the best experience, keep these tips in mind:
Wear appropriate clothing: Include swimsuits, sandals, towel, and comfortable clothes for walking.
Stay well hydrated: The hot springs can be a bit dehydrating, so drink plenty of water.
Sunscreen and repellent: Although it is cold, the sun can be strong and there are mosquitoes in certain areas.
Cash: Carry cash in Colombian pesos, as not all places accept cards, plus the cell phone signal is intermittent, so paying by digital means can be an inconvenience.
In one day you can
The price per person is between $20,000 and $30,000 COP, depending on the season.
Yes! It is ideal for families, but make sure to supervise the little ones in the hot spring areas as long exposure to the gases from the waters can cause dizziness and nausea.
This trip could be fun for pets, but make sure to supervise them and if possible put a locator on them, as there is a lot of nature around.
You can visit the hot springs all year round, but the dry season (December to March) has better weather conditions.
A visit to the San Juan Hot Springs in Puracé and its surroundings, like Coconuco, not only gives you a moment of disconnection, but also the opportunity to connect with nature and with yourself. Let the thermal water erase your worries, and return home renewed, with energy to face the world.
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