Want to get away from the busy Colombian capital? This destination is perfect for a short stay in the countryside, without necessarily spending hours in the car.

Nature getaway at only 1 hour from Bogota. Those who already know Colombia know that Bogotá is a huge metropolis with more than 8 million inhabitants. The noise and air pollution of this city located at 2600 meters above sea level, can therefore be extremely unpleasant. However, for those who love nature and the outdoor activities, there is a quick and comfortable solution.

There is no lack of natural spaces in Colombia where National parks cover 50% of the territory. A dream come true for hiking enthusiasts. From Bogota, the capital, there is no need to take a plane or drive for hours to find the much sought-after peace and quietness. Once past the eastern hills along Bogotá, it is another world. Less than an hour’s drive from the city, you will find yourself surrounded by a green space with numerous rural activities.

NATURE ACTIVITIES IN THE ANDES

On the outskirts of Guasca, a village located east of Bogota, a wide range of activities are available to you. Horseback riding, hiking, quad trekking, camping, fishing, paragliding…various nature activities are offered to visitors. As for lodging, hotels or guest houses in small municipalities are convenient options. However, the best way to really enjoy these beautiful areas is to rent a Finca (kind of cottage). Some Fincas are specially equipped to receive tourists. You will find yourself in an authentic remote place but with all the necessary comfort for a short stay.

Finca with view of Lake Tominé

Paragliding over the lake

Guatavita: Lagoon, lake, and Muisca legends

The Muisca ethnicity, who occupied the region in pre-Columbian times, worshipped certain exceptional natural sites. These were often associated with legendary myths and held great importance in local traditions. This is the case, for example, of the Laguna de Guatavita, a crater occupied by an emerald-coloured high-altitude lake. It was here that the Muisca caciques, the Zipas, performed sacred rites during which they bathed covered in gold in the waters of the lagoon. The precious gold dust was thus diluted in the cold waters. This ritual fuelled the myth of El Dorado…

The lagoon of Guatavita is today a protected site open to the public. Visitors are offered a route through the alleys of the site and an introduction to not only the Muisca traditions and legends, but also to the endemic plants of the region and their therapeutic virtues.

If you are interested by a trip to Guatavita, a nature getaway at only 1 hour from Bogota, or any other region of Colombia :