In brief
Just an hour’s drive from Bogotá, hidden in the heart of the Colombian Andes, lies a little-known natural treasure: the La Chorrera waterfall. At 590 metres high, it is the largest waterfall in Colombia and one of the most impressive in South America. And yet, despite its proximity to the capital, it remains untouched by mass tourism, offering adventure-seekers a wild and enchanting setting.
Accessible by hiking through a cloud forest, La Chorrera is well worth the effort. The trail, lined with crystal-clear rivers and lush vegetation, also leads to the nearby El Chiflón waterfall, where you can pass beneath a roaring curtain of water. An immersive experience that plunges you into the heart of Colombian nature.
Whether you’re a hiker, a photography enthusiast or simply looking for a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city, La Chorrera has something for everyone. In this article, find out everything you need to know about visiting this hidden gem: how to get there, what to pack, and why this waterfall absolutely deserves a place on your itinerary in Colombia.
La Chorrera waterfall
- County: Cundinamarca (Andes)
- Administration: Parque Aventura La Chorrera (private)
- Waterfall: 590m high
- Altitude: 2,650 m
- Ecosystems: Andean forests, fields
- Climate: temperate and humid
- Access from Bogotá
Our opinion: an easy hike for a marvel ★★
Let’s face it, we visited the waterfall at the height of the El Niño period… and were treated to an almost dried-up waterfall! But that didn’t stop us enjoying the hike. It’s hard to imagine that such a natural wonder can be found just 30 km from Bogotá: the highest waterfall in the country at 590 metres! The trail crosses private land and requires the payment of an entrance fee, but unlike the national parks, the presence of a guide is not mandatory. For a hike in the heart of the Andes, the route is relatively accessible and offers superb views of the surrounding mountains. Another plus: the site is sparsely frequented, making the experience even more enjoyable. Before reaching La Chorrera, you’ll pass by the El Chiflón waterfall, an ideal spot for a photo break and a refreshing breeze. You can get very close to it, and a light waterproof poncho is included in the entrance fee (you can guess that the place must be a lot wetter… when there’s water!).
When to visit La Chorrera waterfall: the best time to visit La Chorrera waterfall is between December and March, during the dry season. During these months, rainfall is less frequent, making the hike more pleasant and the trails more accessible. However, if you want to admire the waterfall with a more impressive flow of water, it may be worth going during the rainy season (April to November). In this case, bring waterproof clothing and footwear suitable for muddy trails.
Visitor numbers at La Chorrera waterfall: despite its proximity to the capital, it remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. On weekdays, visitor numbers are generally low, offering a peaceful experience. On weekends, crowds may increase slightly, but the site retains its tranquil atmosphere. Best avoided at weekends and on public holidays for those seeking the most tranquility.
Climate at Cascade La Chorrera: the climate at Cascade La Chorrera is temperate, with cool temperatures and rapid weather variations between sun, rain and fog. Perched at around 2,600 m, average daytime temperatures range from 18 to 24°C throughout the year. Rainfall is frequent, particularly between April and November, when showers, though brief, can be intense. From December to March, the weather is drier, offering ideal conditions for hiking (but the waterfall is less impressive). To make the most of your visit, we recommend that you wear layered clothing and waterproof gear suited to the sudden changes in climate.
Find out more about the La Chorrera waterfall
The Cascade de La Chorrera, near Bogotá, is Colombia’s highest waterfall at 590 metres. Surrounded by a unique mountain ecosystem, it nevertheless attracts relatively few visitors each year.
History
Before the arrival of Spanish settlers, the Choachí and La Chorrera waterfall region was part of the territory of the Muiscas, an indigenous civilization that inhabited the high plateaus of the Andean region, notably the department of Cundinamarca. The Muiscas were one of the most advanced peoples in pre-Columbian America, organized into political confederations and mastering sophisticated agricultural techniques. Although there is no precise historical documentation on the specific use of the La Chorrera waterfall by the Muiscas, it is likely that this area was a place of spiritual or utilitarian importance, given its proximity to water sources and natural resources.
The Muiscas venerated the elements of nature, particularly water, which they considered a sacred symbol. It is therefore possible that the waterfall played a role in their rituals or in the management of water resources. Muisca culture was also deeply connected with the management of water, which they used forirrigation and ceremonies. However, after Spanish colonization in the 16th century, indigenous communities were marginalized, and knowledge of certain ancient cultural aspects was lost or diluted by the arrival of the new settlers.
During the colonial period (16th to 19th centuries), the Choachí region, and thus La Chorrera, became part of the Spanish Empire. At the time, the region was part of the agricultural lands dedicated to the production of crops such as corn, potatoes and other products needed to supply Bogotá and neighboring towns. However, the waterfall was not a major point of interest at the time.
It was only in the following centuries, after Colombian independence (declared in 1810, but consolidated in 1819 after the Battle of Boyacá), that the region began to be seen in a different light, particularly for its tourist potential. The cascade’s geographical isolation during this period limited its exploration to local or regional explorers, and it is only very recently that La Chorrera has gained notoriety among visitors from outside the region.
Geography
The waterfall is fed by the Río Chorrera, a river that rises in the Cruz Verde paramo at an altitude of around 3,200 metres. This paramo, a unique high-altitude ecosystem, plays a crucial role in water regulation and is a catchment area for rainwater, which is slowly released into rivers and streams, feeding the hydrological systems of the surrounding regions.
he relief around La Chorrera is marked by steep slopes, deep valleys and steep ravines, typical of the Andean mountains. This rugged terrain is the result of millions of years of geological forces. The Cordillera Oriental, where La Chorrera is located, is a mountain range that crosses Colombia from north to south and forms part of the wider Andes system. This mountainous area is the product of plate tectonics, with elevation and erosion phenomena shaping the mountains over the ages.
The region’s geological formation is dominated by sedimentary rocks, formed mainly by deposits of sand, silt and clay that have consolidated over time. These rocks are often interspersed with volcanic layers, as is the case in other regions of the Andes, where volcanoes have helped shape the landscape. The waterfall itself is formed by a stream flowing down from the mountains, following fissures in the rocks and creating spectacular falls when it meets a valley below.
The topography of the region, with its steep slopes and crevasses, allows water to rush several hundred meters, creating the impressive La Chorrera waterfall. The watershed of the Río Chorrera, fed by rainfall from the mountains, also includes numerous tributaries that flow into the main stream, contributing to its power.
Ecosystem and Biodiversity
The ecosystem surrounding the Cascade de La Chorrera is of great ecological value. It is located in an area where several types of habitat converge, ranging from Andean paramo to montane forests. The paramo is one of the most fragile ecosystems on the planet, renowned for its ability to regulate the climate and filter water, and it is in this zone that many of Colombia’s water sources are born. As you descend towards the waterfall, the environment gradually changes to a cloud forest, with moss-covered trees, ferns and a wide variety of flora.
Among the most remarkable plant species are orchids, which grow on forest trees, and bromeliads, plants that capture rainwater, creating micro-habitats for small species. The fauna is equally diverse. Endemic birds such as hummingbirds and certain species of birds of prey are found in the region, as are mammals such as the Andean puma and the spectacled bear, which inhabit the higher areas of the Cordillera. The presence of these animals makes the region a crucial place for the conservation of endangered species, which has led to protection initiatives. But the likelihood of seeing them is very, very, very low.
Tourism development
Interest in the Cascade de La Chorrera began to grow, albeit modestly, in the early 20th century. Travellers and researchers, impressed by the majesty of the waterfall, began to explore the area. However, it was only at the beginning of the 21st century, and particularly after the 2000s, that tourism really took hold in the area.
In 2007, a group of local farmers initiated the project to create the La Chorrera Adventure Nature Park, with the aim of protecting this exceptional area while opening it up to the public in an environmentally-friendly way. This project has enabled La Chorrera to become a leading ecotourism site. The park has been designed to raise visitors’ awareness of the region’s natural beauty, while contributing to the local economy. Sustainable management and the protection of biodiversity were the cornerstones of this development.
The project has also enhanced local knowledge and created jobs for the surrounding community. Indeed, the creation of the park has created economic opportunities, such as jobs for tour guides, park managers, as well as jobs in the hotel and restaurant sectors. What’s more, the initiative has raised local awareness of the need to preserve their natural environment.
Visit La Chorrera waterfall
Our experience: the hike to the (dry) waterfall
We were in Bogotá to visit Caro’s family, and the idea of discovering Colombia’s famous largest waterfall sounded fantastic. After all, La Chorrera is right next to the capital. What we didn’t know was that our trip, in March 2024, would take place in the middle of a drought caused by the El Niño phenomenon, which was hitting Colombia hard. A drought so severe that the waterfall itself had dried up… (and that the mayor of Bogotá had suggested that couples should wash together to save water, but that’s another story!)
Nevertheless, enthusiastic and curious, we set off in the early hours of the morning, at around 7.30 am. Leaving Bogotá is no mean feat: traffic is dense and chaotic. But once out of this urban hell, the city gives way to grandiose landscapes. The road winds through the majestic Andes, offering breathtaking panoramas. Everything seems perfect, until we reach the “kilómetro 27 vereda La Victoria” junction, lost in the middle of nowhere. Here we leave the asphalt for a bumpy gravel track.
We make our way slowly, passing a few isolated houses and farms. Is it really possible to find the country’s largest waterfall in this remote corner? The question crosses our minds more than once. The road goes up and down, and after asking the locals for directions, we’re reassured: the entrance to the Parque Aventura La Chorrera is just around the corner. Indeed, after a gruelling climb (it’s better to have a powerful vehicle, or even a 4×4!), we finally came upon an improvised parking area, surrounded by a few huts.
The site is deserted. Once we had our tickets in hand, we were surprised to receive a small welcome kit included in the price: a canvas bag containing a drink, Colombian snacks and… a poncho. A poncho? We’ll be wondering about that after the hike. Why offer a poncho when the waterfall has dried up? The mystery remains.
We begin the hike on a paved path, punctuated by ascents and descents. Along the way, we pass a small Cuban restaurant specializing in flavored liqueurs, before arriving at a suspension bridge worthy of Indiana Jones. From here, the trail becomes a simple dirt track winding through the forest, hugging the steep relief of the mountain. Gradually, the vegetation clears, revealing pastures and fields where we take time to admire the landscape: isolated farms, crops clinging to the slopes of the Andes. The scenery is splendid, and yet… we’re still alone.
The trail continues, alternating between ascents and descents. The difficulty seems moderate, perhaps because we hiked the much more physically demanding Lagunas de Siecha in Chingaza National Park the day before.
On the way, we branch off towards another waterfall, El Chiflón, 55 metres high. After a fifteen-minute walk, we discover… a thin trickle of water. Almost nothing. That’s when we realize our mistake. But optimistic as we are, we still cling to the hope that the much larger La Chorrera might at least have some water.
We return to the main path and continue our walk in a landscape as magnificent as ever. After about 1h45 of walking, we come to a huge rock wall. Tiny trickles of water slide down the wall. This is it. The famous waterfall.
Our optimism was not rewarded. The Chorrera is also virtually dry. After a moment’s disappointment, we burst out laughing. If there’s no water, at least the anecdote is memorable! And yet, we can imagine what the place must be like in normal times: the deafening roar of water hitting the rock, the spray making a poncho indispensable… This phantasmagorical image remains suspended in our minds.
Just then, a few other hikers join us. They immortalize the moment with photos, featuring… a simple rock wall in the background. Ahah.
After this surprising discovery, we set off on our return journey. Three and a half hours of hiking in all, in glorious sunshine. No waterfalls, of course, but a nice walk. And one thing’s for sure: we’ll be back. But next time we’ll make sure there’s water!
Hiking and activities
Hiking
Parque Aventura La Chorrera has a single hiking trail, which leads to the La Chorrera waterfall. Along the way, a short detour allows you to explore the El Chiflón waterfall and the Cueva de los Monos rock formation.
| FEATURES | |
|---|---|
| Start and finish points | La Chorrera Park entrance office |
| Route type | Round trip |
| Duration | Approx. 3h30 |
| Total distance | 9 km |
| Maximum altitude | 2 650 m |
| Vertical rise | 200 m |
Activities
The Parque Aventura La Chorrera also offers a variety of activities, mostly extreme sports, to discover this region of the Andes in a different way. Note: we have not tested any of the activities below.
Possible activities (for a fee) :
- Abseiling
- Canyoning
- Tibetan bridge
- Tyrolean traverse
- Indiana Jones” bridge (swinging bridge with spaced wooden slats)
- Campsite
Prices & Schedule
Parque Aventura La Chorrera is a private organization that manages access to the site, including the entrance to the trail leading to the waterfall, as well as the activities available on site (zip-lining, abseiling, camping, etc.).
Opening hours
Entrance to the hike is from 08:00 to 15:00.
Cost
The park offers several types of facilities. The basic package costs 48,000 COP per person. In our opinion, this offer is more than sufficient.
This includes access to La Chorrera waterfall, el Chiflón waterfall and the Cueva de los Monos rock formation. For refreshments, visitors receive a bottle of water, fruit, milk, achiras (traditional cookies), a chocolate bar and a tula (cloth bag) in the park’s colors, as well as a poncho.
A guide system is in place according to the season: on weekends and public holidays, several guides are available, while on weekdays, one guide is present at the ticket office, another at the Chiflón waterfall and one at the La Chorrera waterfall. A park guide can accompany visitors throughout the hike for a fee of 60,000 COP.
Other packages range from 70,000 to 150,000 COP per person and include more or less activities, such as zip-lining, abseiling or the Tibetan bridge, as well as meals, including lunch.
Payment methods: cash and credit cards
Cost of an outing organized by an agency from Bogotá
Many travellers opt for an organized tour from Bogotá, both for greater comfort and to optimize their time on site. However, this option can be quite costly, with transportation being one of the main expenses.
For a private visit, allow around 600,000 COP for one person and 950,000 COP for two. This price includes round-trip private transport, access to both waterfalls and the services of a guide.
For a group tour with other travelers, expect to pay between 300,000 and 400,000 COP per person. This price usually includes a few extra stops, such as the Páramo de Cruz Verde, as well as lunch.
Guide & Booking
Accompaniment by a guide is not compulsory. The park offers this service as an optional extra, but it’s not really necessary. The trail is well-marked, with no major difficulties or hazards, so you can enjoy the visit on your own.
There’s no need to book in advance, as the park is rarely visited by tourists.
AGENCIES
Felipe (elcafetour): French- and English-speaking Colombian who organizes private and personalized outings in the Bogotá region (but also throughout Colombia). Includes transportation and guide.
Colombian agencies offering private or group outings:
The true Colombian experience
Gran Colombia Tours
How do I get to La Chorrera waterfall?
Getting to La Chorrera waterfall requires a minimum of preparation, as the site is located in the middle of nature, in the Bogotá region. Whether you choose to come by car, public transport or organized tour, each option has its advantages, depending on your budget and comfort level. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip and make the most of this natural wonder.
From Bogotá
1. Bus from Bogotá to Choachí / Fómeque
Company: Transoriente, Transfomeque
Departure: every 30 minutes on average from 05:00 to 19:00
Departure point: company office, near the crossroads of calle 6 and avenida Caracas , about 100m from the Transmilenio “Tercer” stop
Arrival: ask the driver to stop at the “kilómetro 27 vereda la Victoria” crossroads, or the road leading to the entrance to Parc de la Chorera (the bus continues towards Choachí / Fómeque).
Price (one way): 14,000 COP / person
2. From the “kilómetro 27 vereda la Victoria” junction to the entrance to the waterfall
For this second part of the trip, you’ll either have to be lucky and find a cab or a vehicle willing to take you the remaining 5 km to the entrance to the trail leading to the La Chorrera waterfall. However, as the area is fairly isolated and little frequented, it’s highly likely that you’ll have to make the journey on foot, which takes around 1h to 1h15. To avoid taking the wrong route, we recommend using Waze or Google Maps as a guide.
Tip: It’s possible to reach the waterfall from Bogotá by public transport, but it’s essential to leave early. The journey can be long, especially if you have to walk the last few kilometers, while allowing enough time to return to the “kilómetro 27 vereda La Victoria” junction to catch a bus back to Bogotá. All in all, you’ll need to allow for around 19 km of walking, a factor not to be overlooked.
If you’d rather avoid such a long trek, or if the organization seems too complex and uncertain, we recommend renting a suitable vehicle, such as a small 4×4 like a Duster, or hiring a specialized agency to take care of all the logistics, including transport.
Where to stay to visit the La Chorrera waterfall?
To visit the La Chorrera waterfall, we recommend staying in Bogotá. Although it is possible to sleep in Choachí, slightly closer to the site, the difference in distance is minimal and the village itself is of no particular interest.
Bogotá
Bogotá is undoubtedly the most practical option, being the main gateway for travellers, whether by plane or bus. As the capital, it offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets, as well as a vast choice of cultural and tourist activities, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the region.
Getting to La Chorrera from Bogotá without a vehicle can be a challenge. Public transport does not serve the site directly, so you either have to walk several kilometers to reach the entrance to Parque Aventura La Chorrera, opt for an organized excursion with transport included, or rent a 4×4 (Duster type) to access the parking lot, located at the end of a steep path with pronounced slopes. These constraints can make the visit more costly and require a certain amount of organization.
Usaquén district: A more chic and charming corner, with great hotel and apartment options.
La Candelaria district: Ideal if you want to visit the historic center before or after your visit to La Chorrera. Hostels, boutique hotels and budget accommodation are plentiful.
Chapinero district: A good compromise between tranquility and easy access to restaurants and cafés.
LEARN MORE
La Candelaria district
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Granada Hostel
(La Candelaria)
The breakfasts are delicious, the staff and manager welcoming, the bedding very comfortable, the premises impeccably clean, the decor carefully thought out and the general atmosphere very pleasant.
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Spotty Bogotá Centro
(La Candelaria)
This chic hostel is nestled in the heart of Bogotá and offers a memorable rooftop! The large swimming pool and heated Jacuzzis are a real treat! The breakfast is delicious, and the dormitories are very comfortable!
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Quinta Bolivar
(La Candelaria)
Ideally located for exploring the area, this establishment offers functional rooms and very comfortable beds. The breakfast is delicious and the owner is very friendly. 100% recommended.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Casa de la Vega
(La Candelaria)
Situated in a beautiful location, this establishment benefits from friendly, helpful staff. Breakfast is of the highest quality. The colonial-style architecture gives the place a special charm, accentuated by its patios.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
The Orchids
(La Candelaria)
This hotel offers a peaceful, intimate atmosphere, with just a few rooms. Decorated with care and refinement, the staff are charming and the breakfasts delicious.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
Hotel bh Bicentenario
(La Candelaria)
The hotel is ideally located at the foot of the Monserrate mountain, right next to the Gold Museum. The beds are very comfortable and the rooms offer a pleasant, unobstructed view.
Chapinero district
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Urbana Hostel
(Chapinero)
The staff are very helpful and offer an exceptional welcome. The location in the Zona T is ideal. What’s more, the value for money is excellent. We highly recommend this hotel!
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Hostal Macondo
(Chapinero)
The location is excellent, in a very pleasant area with plenty of cafés, restaurants and bars. The dormitories are spotless, with comfortable beds and ample space.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel B3 Virrey
(Chapinero)
Located in a lively, safe neighborhood, the hotel offers quiet rooms and attentive staff. The buffet breakfast service is simple and efficient. Helpful and friendly staff.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Espacio 94
(Chapinero)
The rooms are spacious and well-maintained, in an ideal location close to many restaurants and bars, including Park 93. The establishment is run by very friendly people.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
EK Hotel
(Chapinero)
The central location, surrounded by a multitude of restaurants, combined with the friendliness of the staff and the exceptional quality of the breakfast, make this place a perfect choice in the neighborhood.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
GHL Hotel Bioxury
(Chapinero)
The hotel offers breathtaking views of the city, and is nestled in a lively neighborhood brimming with restaurants and stores. The staff are friendly, the rooms comfortable and the breakfast generous.
Usaquén district
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Usaquen Station Hostel
(Usaquén)
This inn and its staff are simply remarkable. Their kindness, helpfulness and generosity are extraordinary. What’s more, the hostel is located in a very safe neighborhood.
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Hostal CasAlé Usaquén
(Usaquén)
The establishment is impeccably clean and offers outstanding customer service. The neighborhood offers amenities such as a pharmacy, restaurants, a vending machine and a market.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Zana Hotel Boutique
(Usaquén)
The location is simply ideal! The neighborhood is safe and perfect for walking, with a multitude of amenities. The bedding is comfortable and the room was clean. The welcome was incredible.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Primitivo
(Usaquén)
The staff are extremely attentive and supportive. The rooms are well maintained and quite quiet at night. Breakfast is sufficient and with 3 choices, it’s delicious and in good quantity!
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
NH Collection Bogota Hacienda Royal
(Usaquén)
The view from the room is magnificent, and the terrace adds charm. The location is perfect, with the adjacent shopping center. The staff are pleasant.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
W Bogota
(Usaquén)
The warm welcome, the comfortable room, the delicious breakfasts and the restaurants offering absolutely fabulous cuisine all contribute to a dream stay in a really pleasant area!
Notes on visiting the La Chorrera waterfall
Sunscreen + Sunglasses
Although the altitude maintains moderate temperatures, the intensity of UV rays remains very high on sunny days. Effective skin protection is therefore essential, as are sunglasses.
Raincoat (poncho, K-Way)
A basic poncho is included with your ticket at the entrance, but we recommend you bring a K-Way or more resistant poncho in case of rain. In the mountains, the weather can change abruptly!
Physical effort
The hike is of moderate level, with around 2h30 round-trip walking on a trail alternating between ascents and descents, without reaching the requirements of a high-mountain trek.
Respecting the environment
Preserve nature by respecting its balance: admire plants without touching them, leave each element in its place and avoid any degradation. And make sure you take all your garbage with you.
