3 days of Enchantment enjoying the Wonders of San José del Guaviare

Day 1

After a long trip and a rest, we will set out to discover what treasures San Jose del Guaviare has for us: El Rincón de los Toros (a colourful canyon), Orion`s Gate, the Natural bridges, and we will walk through some of the wonderful rock formations of the Serrania de la Lindosa which is part of the Guyanese Shield, the vast geological formation comprising several of the most extraordinary territories in South America. We will go through the Valley of the Labyrinth, Ice Box Cave and Orion´s Gate and afterwards we will set off towards the PicaPiedra tavern via the route which takes us over the natural bridges, where millennia of water flow has sculpted the rock into three bridges; having crossed them, we will look back up at them from their base. We finish the day with an excursion in small boats onto the inky waters of the Black Lake in the hamlet of Playa Guio.

Day 2

Blue or Paintings Range

The excursion to the paintings is organised by a community-led project, there we will see a beautiful collection of paintings which are only accessible after a 45-minute walk. To get there we have the option of going through a cave which is 210 metres long until we arrive at a spectacular view point with panoramic views where we will have the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful lunch tasting the gastronomic delights of the region.

Day 3

La Recebera-Big Pool- Natural Ponds

This place is the confluence of waters of various colours springing up from wells and underground grottos eroded out of the rock. This natural phenomenon, according to the scientists, is a result of the influence of the surrounding vegetation and the mineral composition of the area in conjunction with the swirling passage of water over the rocks, all contributing to these amazing natural sculptures. When we have taken in this last wonderful place, we start the journey back to Bogota.

Pictograms of the Blue/ Paintings Range

An example of the Pre-Colombian past of this region in the south-east of Colombia can be found in Cerro Azul, 47km from San Jose del Guaviare, A place where its possible to see groups of red pigment pictograms which were made in this rocks by indigenous tribes of which it is estimated that some may be more than 1000 years old.

Orion´s Gate

This feature is a kind of outdoor sculpture, a stone structure measuring 15 metres along its base and which reaches 12 metres height. Located 9 km from San Jose del Guaviare, Orion´s Gate has two arches spanning various metres in diameter. The locals assure visitors that during December it’s possible to see the Belt of Orion in the night sky through the larger of the two arches.

Natural Pools

Many-coloured water flows through wells, sink holes and bubbles up from underground grottos and out over the rocks. This natural phenomenon is explained by scientists as being the result of the mineral content of the surrounding area, local vegetation and the amount of crystalline water flowing down from the mountain ranges.

Natural Bridges

With a professional guide, we will cross the high natural bridges which tower over the river below, marvelling at how Nature herself gave them such exquisite form.

😷 Bring a Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Kit (face masks, hand sanitizer gel, alcohol spray, goggles or face shield, disposable tissues, bag for personal waste disposal).

💧 It is vital to bring a water bottle and maintain constant hydration. We will be in a place where the heat can be intense, and staying hydrated will keep us in optimal conditions to carry out the travel plan.

🧢 Wear a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun. It is important to use sunscreen, especially on the face, and consider using mineral sunscreen.

👕 Pack light clothing suitable for hot weather for two days. We suggest long pants and long-sleeved shirts since the route has trees with long branches that can help avoid scratches. Bring clothes that can get wet, including swimwear and a waterproof jacket.

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes, preferably hiking shoes, and bring an extra pair in case your shoes get wet during the journey.

💉 It is recommended that your Yellow Fever vaccine be up to date. If not, you can apply it no later than 10 days before the trip.

💊 Bring your medications and personal documents (medical insurance card and ID).

🎒 Avoid using a wheeled suitcase and bring a small backpack or sling bag to carry your personal items during hikes.

🔦 We recommend bringing a blanket for the cold in the early morning when leaving Bogotá, as well as insect repellent, a flashlight, and binoculars.

Relevant Information:

Please be aware that you are responsible for your belongings. Protect your electronic devices and personal documents from rain and humidity.

Ensure your cellphone is fully charged; this will allow you to take photos and use it in case of an emergency.

Your safety is very important, so please be prudent. Always keep the group in sight and follow the guide's instructions.

Do not bring cigarettes or alcoholic beverages. Do not participate in a hike if you are sleep-deprived, under the influence of alcohol, pregnant, or have medical conditions.

Strictly adhere to your doctor's instructions regarding injuries, and if necessary, bring your personal medications.