Ascending the Heights of Cerro Cristo Rey

The journey to Cerro Cristo Rey began with a sense of anticipation that only a true nature lover can understand. Támesis, a town nestled in the western mountain range of Colombia, is a place where the air is thick with the scent of earth and the promise of adventure. As I embarked on this journey, I was accompanied by Alex, a local guide whose knowledge of the trail was as deep as his love for his hometown. His presence was reassuring, and his stories of the land and its people added a rich layer to the experience.

The trail itself was a tapestry of natural wonders. We started our ascent through a lush pasture, where the distant roar of La Peinada Waterfall echoed through the valley. The path, a stone-laden route that wound its way up the mountain, was a testament to the dedication of the 500 people who had built it, piece by piece, over three years. As we climbed, the fog forest enveloped us, a mystical realm where native species of trees and plants thrived in the cool, moist air. It was a reminder of the delicate balance of ecosystems, a theme that resonates deeply with my work in conservation.

A Summit Feast and Panoramic Views

Reaching the summit of Cerro Cristo Rey was a moment of triumph. The Christ statue, standing tall at 11 meters, was a beacon of serenity amidst the rugged landscape. Here, Alex unpacked a traditional Colombian lunch, wrapped in banana leaves, a delightful nod to the local culture. As we savored the flavors, the clouds parted briefly, revealing a breathtaking view of the Cartama River Valley below. The sight was a mosaic of rivers and towns, each with its own story, its own life.

The summit offered more than just a visual feast. It was a place of reflection, a vantage point from which to appreciate the interconnectedness of nature and humanity. The rivers we could see—the Cauca, Río Poblanco, Río Cartama, and Río Buey—were lifelines for the communities below, their waters nourishing both land and spirit. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations.

The Descent and a Fond Farewell

The descent was a careful journey, each step a reminder of the climb’s effort and the beauty witnessed. The trail, though familiar now, still held surprises—a sudden burst of bird song, the rustle of leaves as a small animal darted away. Alex’s guidance was invaluable, his familiarity with the terrain ensuring a safe return to the base.

As we reached the end of our hike, the town of Támesis welcomed us back with open arms. Its people, much like Alex, were warm and inviting, their smiles as bright as the sun that had finally broken through the clouds. I left Cerro Cristo Rey with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed commitment to the conservation of such precious landscapes. This journey was more than just a hike; it was a celebration of nature’s splendor and a call to protect it.

For those seeking an adventure that combines physical challenge with profound beauty, I wholeheartedly recommend the Thames Scenic Tour to experience the views from Cerro Cristo Rey. It’s a journey that will leave you inspired and invigorated, a testament to the wonders of our natural world.