In brief
Nestled in the Boyacá mountains, just a few kilometers from the charming historic town of Villa de Leyva, the Iguaque Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural treasure trove, rich in biodiversity and cultural history. This enchanting place is famous for its páramo, one of the most precious ecosystems on the planet, as well as for the Iguaque lagoon, a sacred site according to Muisca mythology, considered the cradle of humanity in their legends.
Exploring this sanctuary is much more than a simple hike along trails lined with frailejones and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature and the ancestral traditions that see this land as a spiritual space. The climb to the lagoon, situated at an altitude of over 3,600 metres, is a challenge for the adventurous, but the spectacular view at the summit is worth every effort.
Ideal for ecotourism enthusiasts, the Iguaque Sanctuary combines biodiversity, history and physical challenge, encouraging reflection and preservation of the environment.
Iguaque Sanctuary
- Department : Boyacá (Andes)
- Founded: 1977
- Surface area: 6,750 hectares
- Altitude: 2,400 to 3,800 m
- Ecosystems: Andean and sub-Andean forests, páramos
- Climate: Temperate and cold
- Access from Villa de Leyva
Our opinion: a physical challenge to find peace ★
A serious look. That’s what greeted us when we told our host in Villa de Leyva about our desire to hike in the Iguaque Sanctuary. And with good reason: reaching the Iguaque lagoon is no walk in the park. The trail, entirely uphill and then downhill, winds its way through sometimes rugged and demanding terrain. It’s not an adventure to be taken lightly, and it’s best to be physically prepared for the challenge. While the panoramas may not rival the immensity of Chingaza or the splendour of El Cocuy, Iguaque has a charm all its own: that of an unspoilt, little-visited sanctuary. At the time of our visit, only six hikers had attempted the climb that day. For lovers of physical challenges and nature, it’s an off-the-beaten-track immersion in the heart of a unique ecosystem: the Andean páramo. An experience not to be missed, especially if you have a few days to explore the wonders around Villa de Leyva.
When should you visit the Iguaque Sanctuary?
After several years of closure, the Iguaque Sanctuary reopened in September 2024. The Iguaque Sanctuary is now open without interruption all year round, unlike parks like Tayrona which sometimes close. The ideal time to visit Iguaque is from December to March, during the dry season when rainfall is scarce. Nevertheless, the sanctuary is accessible all year round, but from April to November, during the wet season, there are frequent showers and more fog.
Tourist numbers at the Iguaque Sanctuary
Tourist numbers at the Iguaque Sanctuary remain relatively low, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers in search of tranquillity. Unlike other more popular tourist sites, this sanctuary is still untouched by mass tourism. On weekdays, the number of visitors is particularly low, with sometimes only a few hikers on the trails. Even at weekends, visitor numbers remain moderate, although somewhat higher, particularly in the dry season and during the vacations. This is due to the difficulty of the hike to the Iguaque lagoon, which requires good physical condition and a certain amount of preparation.
Climate in Iguaque Sanctuary
The climate of the Iguaque Sanctuary is typical of páramo ecosystems, characterized by cool temperatures and sudden climatic variations. Located between 2,400 and 3,800 meters above sea level, average temperatures fluctuate between 5 and 15°C throughout the year. The dry season, from December to March and July to August, offers more favorable conditions for hiking, with less rain and generally sunny days. However, even during this period, the climate remains unpredictable, and sudden showers or cold winds can occur. In the wet season, from April to June and September to November, precipitation is more frequent, accompanied by dense fog that can reduce visibility. Trails also become more slippery and demanding. It’s advisable to dress in layers, with waterproof and warm clothing, and always bring protection against the rain, and the sun, whatever the season.
Getting to know the Iguaque Sanctuary better
The Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary(Santuario de Fauna y Flora Iguaque in Spanish) is one of Colombia’s most important ecological treasures. Located in the department of Boyacá, this sanctuary is part of Colombia’s System of National Natural Parks and is recognized for its historical, cultural and environmental richness. Here, we explore the history, geography, ecosystem, flora, fauna and tourism of this little-known area.
History
The Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary has profound cultural significance for the indigenous Muiscas communities, who regarded the Iguaque lagoon as a sacred place.
According to Muisca mythology, Bachué, whose name in the Chibcha language means “the bare-breasted one”, is a mother goddess venerated as theorigin of humanity. Legend has it that she emerged majestically from the waters of the sacred Lake Iguaque, carrying a baby in her arms. This child grew up to become her husband, and together they populated the Earth, giving life to the first humans.
Bachué was honored in a temple located on the lands of the present-day municipality of Chíquiza, formerly known as San Pedro de Iguaque. Her story, steeped in mystery and spirituality, relates that, after fulfilling her mission as founding mother, she and her husband, identified with the parrot god, were transformed into snakes and returned to the depths of the sacred lagoon.
Bachué is the official name of the hiking trail leading to Laguna Iguaque.
The sanctuary was declared a protected area on May 2, 1977, with the aim of preserving its unique ecosystems, which include Andean forests and páramos, and the species of flora and fauna that depend on them.
Geography
The Iguaque sanctuary lies in the heart of the eastern Andes, in the department of Boyacá, Colombia, at an altitude of between 2,400 and 3,800 metres. This diversity of altitudes creates a unique mosaic of landscapes and ecosystems, ranging from Andean forests to vast expanses of páramo, an ecosystem typical of high-altitude tropical regions and considered one of the world’s most important in terms of environmental services.
The sanctuary is centred around the Iguaque Lagoon, a glacial lake at an altitude of 3,650 metres. This sacred body of water, bordered by vegetation-covered mountains, embodies the spiritual and ecological heart of the region. The lagoon is fed by abundant rainfall and plays an essential role in the local water cycle, acting as a water reserve for downstream communities and ecosystems.
The sanctuary’s topography is marked by steep slopes, incised valleys and mountain ridges. These reliefs, sculpted by tectonic and glacial processes, offer impressive panoramic views of the Cordillera and are home to a variety of microclimates that foster exceptional biodiversity. The region’s soils, often rich in organic matter, are important carbon reservoirs, playing a role in the fight against climate change.
Ecosystems
The Iguaque sanctuary is a genuine ecological reserve, where several ecosystems coexist in harmony:
Andean forests
The Andean forests occupy the lowest altitudes in the sanctuary, between 2,400 and 3,000 metres. These dense, verdant forests are home to a wide variety of trees, including laurel, Andean oak(Quercus humboldtii) and yopo. These areas are essential for the local fauna, providing shelter and food resources for many animal species, including mammals such as the puma and the mountain tapir, as well as a wide variety of birds.
Transition ecosystem
Between 3,000 and 3,200 metres, there is a transition zone where forest gradually gives way to páramo. This mixture of scrub, shrubs and epiphytic plants illustrates the adaptability of species to changing climatic conditions.
Páramo
The páramo, which dominates altitudes above 3,200 metres, is the Iguaque sanctuary’s most emblematic ecosystem. This environment, characterized by low temperatures, high humidity and intense solar radiation, is home to plants adapted to extreme conditions.
Flore
The vegetation of the Iguaque sanctuary reflects the transition between different ecosystems. As you climb higher, the flora changes, offering a mosaic of unique landscapes.
The lower and intermediate altitudes (2,400 to 3,000 metres) are covered with dense forests, where trees reach impressive heights. These include species such as the Andean oak (Quercus humboldtii), laurel and various wild fruit trees. These forests are rich in epiphytic plants, such as mosses, lichens and bromeliads, which line the branches of the trees and help maintain ambient humidity.
In the transition zones, between 3,000 and 3,200 metres, shrubs and bushes dominate, with hardy species such as Andean bilberries and colourful flowering plants. This zone marks the boundary between forest and páramo.
The páramo, which extends over 3,200 metres, is an emblematic ecosystem of the sanctuary. The frailejones(Espeletia), true symbols of this environment, play a key role. These plants, with their long, velvety, rosette-shaped leaves, capture water from mists and precipitation, releasing it slowly to the ground, where it feeds downstream rivers. Alongside them are grasses, mosses and ferns that carpet the ground, and high-altitude orchids that add a touch of color to this wild landscape.
Around the Iguaque lagoon and in marshy areas, aquatic and semi-aquatic plants can be found, adapted to waterlogged soils. These plants, such as rushes and tall grasses, help stabilize banks and filter water, thus maintaining the quality of aquatic ecosystems.
Fauna
The sanctuary’s wildlife is just as diverse and fascinating. The varied conditions of the different habitats allow a wide variety of animal species to cohabit.
Mammals
Among the most remarkable mammals are the Virgini deer (Odocoileus goudotti), the páramo deer(Mazama rufina), which moves silently through the high meadows. The Andean fox(Lycalopex culpaeus), an opportunistic predator, is also a frequent inhabitant of the sanctuary. Mountain tapirs, although elusive, occupy forest areas, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal. Other species, such as the Andean marsupial and the opossum, add further diversity to the local fauna. Recently, the tigrillo (Leopardus tigrinus) and the grey-headed marten (Eira barbara) have been recorded in camera traps.
Birds
The Iguaque sanctuary is home to a remarkable avifauna, with some 173 species of bird recorded. Among them, the Andean guan(Penelope montagnii) stands out as the largest bird of the site’s Andean forests. Hummingbirds, with 19 species present in the sanctuary, occupy an important place. The Black Inca(Coeligena prunellei), endemic to the humid montane forests of the departments of Santander, Cundinamarca and Boyacá, is closely associated with oak forests. Other near-endemic hummingbirds, such as Coeligena bonapartei, Eriocnemis cupreoventris and Chlorostilbon poortmani, add to the sanctuary’s biological richness. In addition, several species endemic to the Cordillera Oriental de los Andes can be observed, such as the white-browed sparrow(Atlapetes albofrenatus) and the woodpecker Melanerpes cf. formicivorus. Near-endemic species also include the red wren(Cinnycerthia unirufa), the ornate warbler(Myioborus ornatus), the forest tinamou(Nothocercus julius) and the white-fronted dove(Zentrygon linearis).
Amphibians and reptiles
Amphibians, particularly sensitive to environmental change, find refuge in the sanctuary’s wetlands. They include endemic frogs adapted to the cold, some of which are in danger of extinction. Reptiles, though less numerous, include species of Andean lizards that camouflage themselves in rocks and low plants.
Insects
Insects play a key role in the balance of Iguaque’s ecosystems. Bees and other pollinators, for example, are essential for plant reproduction, while beetles and butterflies contribute to the food chain. Many of the insect species present in the sanctuary are endemic and adapted to the specific conditions of each altitude.
Tourism, threats and conservation
Tourism to the Iguaque sanctuary has grown slowly, especially in comparison with other protected areas in the region. Although located close to the historic town of Villa de Leyva, a popular tourist destination, the sanctuary remains relatively unvisited. The park offers several hiking trails, including one leading to the famous Iguaque lagoon, a place considered a spiritual pilgrimage by some. This nature tourism focuses on the observation of flora and fauna, as well as ecological hiking. It’s important to note that access to the area was banned between 2020 and 2024, officially due to the state of the aging infrastructure, but also because of tensions with certain local communities.
Iguaque plays a crucial role in the conservation of the region’s biodiversity and in the management of water resources, as the Iguaque ecosystems act as natural water reservoirs for the surrounding communities and towns.
Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the flora and fauna, as well as to raise visitor awareness of the importance of preserving this natural heritage. The park organizes educational activities and awareness programs on the need to minimize environmental impact and respect local regulations. In addition, local authorities collaborate with conservation organizations to monitor endemic species and protect sensitive habitats.
Despite conservation efforts, the Iguaque sanctuary faces a number of threats that jeopardize its long-term survival. Climate change is one of the main concerns, affecting the stability of the extremely sensitive páramo ecosystems. These changes can lead to a modification of habitats, a loss of biodiversity and an alteration of the water cycle.
In addition, agricultural practices and urban expansion in surrounding areas are putting pressure on the park’s boundaries. Deforestation, forest fires and the illegal exploitation of natural resources pose significant risks to the preservation of natural habitats.
Visit the Iguaque Sanctuary
Our experience: an intense day on the Bachué trail
Dawn has just broken and the alarm clock is already ringing, marking the start of a long day. It’s barely 07:00 when we board a small bus at the Villa de Leyva terminal, temporarily leaving this charming colonial village to plunge into the heart of raw nature: the Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary.
The bus, modest and cramped, winds along a road that gradually becomes a simple footpath. The atmosphere is calm, almost solemn. We are only four travelers on this adventure, accompanied by a nature park employee on her way to work, silent, observing as we do the imposing mountain range that rises to our right. Soon, we’ll have to face it.
After a forty-minute journey, the vehicle stops at a crossroads: the “Casa de Piedra”. We leave the bus to walk the last three kilometers to the sanctuary’s administrative center. The road is already climbing. A foretaste of the 800-meter climb ahead. After thirty minutes of effort, we finally arrive: a few isolated cabins nestled at the foot of a dense forest, far from civilization. This is followed by an administrative break with registration, payment and briefing by a park representative (note that in 2019, the date of our hike, the presence of a guide was not yet compulsory).
It’s 09h. The climb begins. We make our way together, but soon everyone finds their own pace, creating gaps, and solitude sets in. The trail begins gently: a pontoon-like wooden path through a thick, silent forest. But after a few hundred metres, the challenge begins. The planks disappear, giving way to a steep path of earth and stones. From here on, there’s no respite. We advance cautiously, saving our strength for what lies ahead. The thick forest offers no landmarks, only trunks, slippery roots and treacherous stones. The climb seems endless.
After more than an hour’s effort, the scenery changes. The dense forest gives way to lower vegetation: shrubs, bushes, and finally, a clear horizon. But what lies before us is impressive: a steep slope that never seems to stop. We hadn’t realized just how much the 800-metre ascent would weigh on our spirits and our breath. With each step, oxygen became scarcer, and pauses multiplied. Mist and clouds envelop us, adding dramatic tension to our progress. We pray that the rain will spare us, as we make slow progress in thankfully mild weather.
Then, suddenly, a wall of rocks. The path seems to disappear. But no, it continues: we have to climb, literally. We climb, using both hands and feet to overcome these natural obstacles. The effort is intense, exhausting. Our progress slows, but at last a new transition takes place: the first frailejones appear, signs that we are entering the unique ecosystem of the páramo. Ahead of us, the crest of the massif seems within reach, but recedes with every step, like an inaccessible mirage. Tiredness weighs heavily, and every fifty metres we climb requires a break.
Then, at last, deliverance: a flat section. After hours of hellish climbing, we can finally walk without struggling against the slope. The landscape unfolds in a spectral light, the mist adding a mystical aura to these Andean mountains. The trail, now made of earth, rises and falls gently. We let ourselves be carried away by this moment of respite.
All around us, the plants of the páramo emerge between wisps of mist. We guess that the Laguna Iguaque is close at hand. A few more minutes… and suddenly, we’re there. But the weather doesn’t do us any favours: such dense mist covers the lagoon that we can’t even see the other side. After so much effort, our emotions are mixed. Frustration at having climbed a mountain to see nothing, but also profound humility in the face of this sacred Muisca site, once the scene of ancestral ceremonies. The heavy silence, the solitude, the omnipresent mist… everything reminds us that we are here as guests of an indomitable nature.
Twenty minutes’ rest contemplating this veiled immensity, then it’s time to set off again. The descent begins. And who said going down was easier? After 2h30 of gruelling descent, we’re wondering. Our knees ache, the rocks are treacherous, and the wet roots of the forest are treacherous. We stumble more than once. Our bodies are in automatic mode, just trying to reach the finish. When the pontoons finally reappear, we’re overwhelmed with relief. Another few hundred metres and we’re back at the administrative center huts, at around 2.30-3pm.
Exhausted. But happy. Happy to have taken up this challenge, to have tackled one of the most demanding trails we’ve ever hiked. But the day’s not over yet: we still have three kilometers to walk to reach Casa de Piedra and catch the 4pm bus back to Villa de Leyva, where a hot shower and a comforting meal await us.
Iguaque is not a trek for the faint-hearted. It’s a real challenge, both physically and mentally. A harsh, relentless trail that leaves no room for respite. But it’s also a unique immersion in an exceptional ecosystem, a journey through time and history to a natural and cultural site of inestimable importance to Andean civilizations. An experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Hiking options
The Iguaque Sanctuary offers two hiking trails. The Bachué trail, which leads to the Laguna Iguaque, is the main one.
During the hike, your guide (obligatory) will share a wealth of information about the local flora, explaining the crucial role of each plant in this hostile ecosystem. You’ll also learn about the history of the Muiscas, a civilization that occupied the region and worshipped at several sites.
The levels of difficulty listed are for experienced hikers accustomed to varied terrain and steep gradients.
Bachué trail (Laguna Iguaque)
The Bachué trail is the star attraction of the Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, a place steeped in history and spirituality nestled in the heart of Andean nature. The 4.7 km trail links the administrative center of Carrizal to the Iguaque lagoon, a sacred site according to Muisca mythology. The route, which takes around 6 hours round trip, winds its way through an exceptional ecological wealth, including the Andean forest, the Alto-Andean forest and the páramo, a unique ecosystem in the Colombian highlands.
This hike is particularly demanding due to the steep gradient and some rock-climbing sections. The section through the forest can become tricky in bad weather, with muddy ground and slippery roots making progress more difficult.
- Difficulty: high
- Distance: 9.4 km
- Ascent: +794 m
- Maximum altitude: 3,640 m
- Duration: 6h-7h
- Type: round trip
IE – SUE “Camino de las aves” trail
The IE-SUE trail is 1.88 km long and offers an immersive experience lasting around 2 hours and 30 minutes, including natural and cultural heritage interpretation activities. The trail begins at Carrizal’s administrative headquarters, taking visitors through the unique ecosystem of the Andean forest, with stops along the Carrizal stream. Along the way, explorers discover the auditorium and the historic remains of the Mamarramos house, adding a cultural dimension to this wilderness adventure.
- Difficulty: medium
- Distance: 1.88 km
- Ascent: +100 m
- Maximum altitude: 2,900 m
- Duration: 2h30
- Type: loop
Iguaque Sanctuary prices & opening hours
As with all natural areas protected by the Colombian government, an entrance fee is required for access.
Opening hours: entrances between 08:00 and 10:00.
Entrance fee to the Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
Means of payment: Cash only
| Visitor | Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| Colombian or CAN member or foreigner residing in Colombia | 25,000 COP |
| Foreigners | 72,000 COP |
| Car | 19,000 COP |
Reservations & Guide required
Reservation required
Prior reservation is essential to visit the sanctuary. To make a reservation, simply send an e-mail to iguaque@parquesnacionales.gov.co, or fill in the official form. Be sure to make your request at least 3 working days in advance and follow the steps indicated.
Mandatory guide
When we visited the Iguaque Sanctuary in 2019, it was not mandatory to be accompanied by a guide.
However, after closing in 2020, the park reopened in September 2024 with new rules. Now, as is the case in many protected natural areas, it is imperative to be accompanied by a certified guide when hiking, and staff at the entrance scrupulously monitor this requirement. Consult the official list of agencies and independent guides approved by the Iguaque Sanctuary administration to find an available guide.
How do I get to the Iguaque Sanctuary?
Access to the Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary is via one entrance only: the Carrizal Administrative Center.
From the village of Villa de Leyva, go to the bus terminal and catch an early-morning bus to the village of Arcabuco, but get off beforehand at the Casa de Piedra, indicating this to the driver beforehand.
Then walk 3km along a footpath to reach the Carrizal center.
To return to Villa de Leyva once the hike is over, it is imperative to be at the same Casa de piedra stop at 4:00 p.m. to catch the bus. There is no other bus.
| Bus company | Coomultransvilla |
| Departure | Villa de Leyva bus terminal |
| Arrival | Destination Arcabuco, but stop at Casa de piedra (ask driver to stop there beforehand) |
| Departure times | 06h00 and 07h00 |
| Duration | 40 minutes |
| Price (one-way) | 8,000 COP / person |
It is also possible to reach the sanctuary by renting a 4×4 vehicle, as the last few kilometers are on a sloping trail. Pay parking is available at the park entrance.
Where to stay to visit the Iguaque Sanctuary?
To explore the Iguaque Sanctuary, the most convenient and obvious way for a traveler is to set off from the beautiful village of Villa de Leyva.
Villa de Leyva
Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s most emblematic villages, combines beauty and rich heritage. Although it is a popular tourist destination, its unspoilt charm deserves to be explored in greater depth. Easily accessible from Bogotá, it offers the opportunity to spend a few days here, including a day dedicated to discovering the Iguaque Sanctuary.
The village is an ideal place to spend the night, with a wide range of accommodation options: from friendly youth hostels to refined hotels, all in the authentic colonial style that gives it its character. For more information, check out our full article on Villa de Leyva and find out all there is to know!
LEARN MORE
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Rapsodia Hostel
Located in Villa de Leyva, 1.5 km from the main square, RAPSoDIA HOSTEL offers a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace.
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Hostal Villa Chie
Featuring a garden, lounge and garden views, Hostal Villa Chie is 70 meters from the main square. It offers basic accommodation.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Villa del Angel
Featuring a colonial style and 300 meters from the main square, this hotel offers traditional accommodation. Free private parking is available on site.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Cemandy by MA
Located 800 meters from the main square, Hotel Cemandy by MA offers a shared lounge, free private parking and a bar. Rooms are simple and typical.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
La Casa Del Arbol
This elegant establishment is housed in a restored 18th-century colonial building. It offers luxurious, modern rooms. The interior garden is adorned with exotic plants.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
Hotel Boutique El Carmel
Hotel Boutique El Carmel offers a charming stay with elegant rooms, a peaceful interior garden, and a central location for exploring the city’s attractions.
Notes on visiting the Iguaque Sanctuary
Reservations required
Prior reservation is mandatory. To do so, send an email to: iguaque@parquesnacionales.gov.co or fill in the official form, respecting a minimum delay of 3 working days, and follow the different steps.
Mandatory guide
Since September 2024, hiking in the Iguaque Sanctuary has required the presence of a licensed guide. This measure was introduced to preserve the ecosystem, ensure the safety of hikers and contribute to the sustainable management of the site.
Bring water
Take enough water to keep you hydrated throughout the day, especially if you tend to drink a lot. There are no refreshment points on site, and the heat combined with the humidity can quickly increase your water requirements.
Suitable clothing
Dress in layers so you can adjust easily to changing weather conditions, which can change rapidly. Depending on the conditions, you’ll be able to add or remove clothing to stay comfortable, as it can be hot or cold.
Sunscreen + Sunglasses
Although temperatures remain relatively moderate thanks to the altitude, ultraviolet rays are particularly intense on sunny days. So it’s crucial to protect your skin from these rays.
Raincoat (poncho, K-Way)
In the mountains, the weather can change suddenly, and it’s common to be surprised by rain, sometimes intense. That’s why it’s important to bring waterproof clothing, such as a poncho or K-Way.
Altitude & Physical effort
The Iguaque Sanctuary trails stretch from 2,400 to 3,800 metres above sea level. It is advisable to progress at a leisurely pace and drink water regularly to avoid acute mountain sickness. This natural area is not recommended for those who are not used to physical exertion or who suffer from health problems.
Respecting the environment
Be respectful of the flora and fauna, and avoid picking or damaging plants, especially frailejones, which play a crucial role in the páramo ecosystem. Don’t forget to take all your garbage with you – your guide will make sure you do. What’s more, it’s forbidden to bring plastic objects into the park.
