Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park Park

Volcán Nevado de Colima National Park is a protected area in Jalisco that conserves high-altitude volcanic terrain on the border between Jalisco and Colima. The park contains two notable volcanic peaks that dominate the local landscape.

Alpine meadows, subalpine conifer forests and volcanic rockfields form the park’s main natural attractions, with hiking routes and lookout points providing views of the summits. Mountain landscapes at elevations above 3,800 meters offer scenery, wildlife observation and routes for experienced hikers.

Many visitors come specifically to observe the active Volcán de Colima from safe viewing points and to hike on the slopes of the higher Nevado peak; local guides operate routes during safe periods. Because one cone is actively erupting at times, organized excursions and up-to-date guidance from authorities are common.

The area has been protected to conserve the volcanic landscape and surrounding ecosystems; the two volcanoes have a long record of volcanic activity and have shaped regional settlement and land use patterns. Volcán de Colima has been one of Mexico’s most active volcanoes in recent decades.

The park straddles the boundary area between the states of Jalisco and Colima in west-central Mexico. It lies inland from the Pacific coast and is accessed via local roads from towns in both states.

• High elevation terrain: Peaks within the park exceed 3,800 meters and include both the snow-capped Nevado and the more frequently active Colima cone.
• Safety and access: Access can be restricted on safety grounds during periods of volcanic unrest; check local authorities for current conditions and safety advice before visiting.

What to See#

• Nevado de Colima: The higher summit known as Nevado de Colima forms part of the park’s protected high-altitude landscape and carries seasonal snow outside the warmest months.
• Volcán de Colima: The active cone commonly called Volcán de Colima is the park’s most prominent active volcano and is one of Mexico’s most active volcanic centers, with frequent minor eruptive activity in recent decades.

The park is reached from the city of Colima or the town of Villa de Álvarez. From Colima, drive on Hwy 110 toward the national park entrances; local tour operators run guided treks and volcano-watching excursions. Check CONANP or local authorities for current access and safety advisories.

• If hiking the trail toward the summit, check for volcanic activity advisories and secure a local guide for high-elevation treks.
• Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms that form quickly in the mountains.
• Bring layered clothing - temperatures can drop sharply above 3,000m even in summer.