It is found in the Andes of southern Colombia (Colombian Massif) and northern Ecuador.

A yellow or light brown glandular dorsolateral line can be present.

The belly is light or dark brown with yellow or red pustules.

[3] Osornophryne bufoniformis occurs in montane forests, bush land, and páramo at elevations of 2,800–4,700 m (9,200–15,400 ft) above sea level.

It is threatened by habitat loss (deforestation) caused by agricultural development, cultivation of illegal crops, fire, logging, and human settlements.