El Cocuy 3-Day Excursion

Description

El Cocuy is one of the places that makes Colombia such a unique place on earth. Being the biggest mass of snow and ice found within northern Latin-America, the park includes 22 snow-peak mountains, lakes tucked among the mountains, crystal-clear creeks flowing gently across huge valleys, and native vegetation. Given the diverse range of activities, this area is a perfect destination for high-mountain experts and beginners alike. This 3-day trip from Bogotá is the best way to visit this natural wonder; no experience required.

ITINERARY

Night one: After being picked up from your hotel by an English-speaking guide, you will head to the bus terminal. You will take a comfortable overnight bus to El Cocuy, where you will arrive on the next morning.

Day one: Journey to the Heights – A Day of Acclimatization in El Cocuy

After being picked up from your hotel in Bogotá, you will head to the bus terminal. You will take a comfortable overnight bus to El Cocuy, where you will arrive on the next morning.

Begin your adventure in El Cocuy with a traditional breakfast that captures the essence of the region. Afterward, engage in a virtual sensitization talk provided by the National Parks team, setting the stage for the natural wonders ahead.

Around mid-morning, you’ll embark on your journey to one of El Cocuy’s breathtaking acclimatization sites. Whether you choose the panoramic vistas of the Cerro de Mahoma lookout, the serene beauty of Laguna de las Lajas, or the culturally rich Cacique de la Montaña ecological trail, you’ll spend 2 to 5 hours hiking through some of Colombia’s most stunning landscapes. After your invigorating trek, return to your accommodations in El Cocuy for a well-deserved meal and rest, preparing you for the adventures that lie ahead.
 

Day two: Conquering the Heights – A Journey to Púlpito del Diablo

Rise before dawn to fuel up with a nutritious breakfast, setting the stage for a day of unforgettable adventure. By 4:30 am, you’ll begin your journey into the Sierra, traveling by car to the trailhead where your trek begins. The hike, lasting between 8 to 10 hours depending on your pace, will take you through the remarkable Valle de Los Frailejones in the páramo, a unique high-altitude ecosystem.

As you ascend to the big lagoon of the Sierra at 4,400 meters above sea level, the majestic landscape unfolds before you. Your journey continues to the Púlpito del Diablo, where you'll stand at the snow-capped edge of the Pan de Azúcar summit, a place where the awe-inspiring views are as endless as the sky.

A lunch break on the trail provides a moment to recharge before you begin the descent back to El Cocuy. Upon your return, a hearty dinner awaits, offering the perfect end to a day of high-altitude exploration before you retreat to your accommodations for a well-earned rest.
 

Day three: Soothing Hot Springs and the Journey Home

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the farm before setting off for a tranquil experience in the natural hot springs of Güicán. Here, you can relax and rejuvenate, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by the serene beauty of the Andean landscape. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch in the village, savoring the last moments of your time in this stunning region.

In the afternoon, you'll embark on the journey back to Bogotá. Accompanied by your guide, you'll take the bus back to the city, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past days. Upon arrival in Bogotá around 11:00 pm, you'll be driven back to your hotel, bringing your adventure to a close with memories to last a lifetime.