Weekend at Lake Tota: Third Green Destination in Latin America

We will depart early Saturday from Bogotá. We will travel to Iza, where we will explore the town and have the opportunity to take a hike in the nature reserve. Later that day, we will continue our journey to explore the less crowded area of the lake, reaching the municipality of Aquitania to admire the beautiful rural landscape where 90% of the spring onion in Colombia is produced. We will conclude the day by resting by the shores of Lake Tota and enjoying a bonfire.

The next day, we will have the option to go hiking in the Arcos del Lago de Tota. We will also have a lake tour experience. In the afternoon, we will pack up to begin our journey back to Bogotá.

Municipality of Iza

Iza, which in the Chibcha language means "place of healing," served as a refuge for Bochica, the god of the Muisca people. Although it was only during his final days, the deity's stay granted the municipality historical recognition in terms of culture and preservation of indigenous traditions. Founded on January 2, 1556, it preserves houses with designs of indigenous origin and a blend of Spanish construction techniques. The conservation of its architectural landscape, represented in the layout of streets and typical constructions of the colonial period, earned it recognition as a national cultural interest site in 2002. Iza's central square is also known for its delicious dessert vendors.

Pueblito Antiguo Natural Reserve

This place offers a tranquil encounter along waterways to enjoy nature and learn about the history of this emblematic space, which is memorable for recalling Boyacá's past during our grandparents' time.

Municipality of Aquitania

The "city of waters," as it is called, is characterized by being one of the four towns bordering Lake Tota. Around the town, mountains and páramo ecosystems combine to offer a generous panorama of natural resources and biodiversity. The geographical and hydrological characteristics of the municipality have favored agricultural and livestock activities, which can be observed through the forests, valleys, and trails that make up the local landscape. The municipality offers various attractions: sports activities in its water scenarios; contemplation of native plants such as arrayán and curaba; wildlife, including fish and nocturnal species; and typical gastronomic expressions of the region, such as rainbow trout.

Lake Tota

It is the second most important lake in South America. This reserve located at 3,015 meters above sea level, with 60 meters depth, considered the largest in Colombia, is an ideal setting for water sports such as skiing, canoeing, sailing, and diving. The cultivation of rainbow trout has also made it the venue for fishing championships, with the participation of experts and enthusiasts from across the country. The mountainous and forested areas surrounding this place attract tourists and residents who love outdoor activities such as hiking.

San Pedro Island

Located in the middle of the imposing Lake Tota, this beautiful island, declared a municipal protected area, stands out for its biodiversity potential, where environmental restoration processes take place, an ideal space to learn about ecosystem services and the importance of conserving these ecosystems.

😷 Please bring a Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kit (face masks, hand sanitizer gel, alcohol spray, goggles or face shield, disposable tissues, waste disposal bag).

💧 It's important to carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, as we'll be embarking on long hikes. Keeping hydrated is essential for your health.

🧢 Wear a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun. Sunscreen is crucial, especially mineral sunscreen for the face.

👕 Pack enough clothing for two days. Choose comfortable, waterproof, and breathable clothes. The weather is mild but quite variable, with the possibility of rain. Opt for quick-drying clothes and avoid cotton. Remember the 3-layer theory: 1. A dry layer, your second skin; 2. A warm layer for insulation; 3. A protective layer, an "impermeable shell". Don't forget your change of clothes in case you get wet or muddy.

🥾 Wear comfortable shoes, preferably hiking boots. Avoid canvas shoes or sneakers. It's essential to bring spare shoes in case your primary ones get wet during the hike.

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

🎒 Avoid using a wheeled suitcase. Bring a hands-free backpack to store all your luggage, which should be well-distributed in plastic bags. Also, carry a small backpack for your personal items during the hikes.

🔦 We suggest bringing a blanket for cold weather and a flashlight.

🦯 Walking stick (optional).

🍎 Pack some snacks like cereal bars, sandwiches, fruits, and nuts

Please remember 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 paramount. Please be prudent, keep the group in sight at all times, and follow the guide's instructions.

Do not join the trip if you are sleep-deprived, intoxicated, pregnant, or have medical disabilities.

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