CERRO CARIGUANA

Cerro Cariguana (914 m) takes its name from the shape of an iguana's head (cara de iguana), which, with a little imagination, you can make out up there. It's a moderately demanding hike, with a pretty trail where you can admire bromeliads and orchids, and occasionally catch a glimpse of toucans and sloths. At the summit, a fine view of the crater and surrounding mountains. To the north: Las Tres Marías, Pajita, Gaital and Caracoral, and to the west, India Dormida. From El Valle, take Calle Millonarios, not far from Pozos Termales. The road becomes a track. The trailhead can be reached by car (cabs are available for around US$3 each way). The trailhead is well signposted. On foot from the village, allow 3 hours for the complete loop (8-9 km), slightly less for the return trip (6 km). The loop can be shorter or longer: either take the La Pita path downhill (first descent), or the El Macano path downhill (second, longer descent). A guidebook is not essential, and the route can be found on the Wikiloc application. Be careful on the ridges, as they can be very windy in summer. It's advisable, especially in winter, to set off early in the morning to get down before the afternoon thunderstorms. Bring good shoes, a windbreaker or rain cape, plenty of water (there's none at all on the route), a cap and sun cream (no shade), and a headlamp, in case you come down a little late.