On the basis of morphological and molecular evidence, we describe a new species of lizard of the genus Pholidobolus, previously conflated with P. vertebralis, from a paramo ecosystem in the northern Cordillera Central of Colombia. Our results support the recognition of the new species and suggest it is not closely related to P. vertebralis. Morphologically, the new species is distinguished from its congeners by coloration pattern, scutelation and hemipenial morphology. In light of the new evidence, we discuss the validity of available names, putative synapomorphies and the biogeography of the genus Pholidobolus in its northern distribution.