Permits

Other

By Lorraine Caputo

Before entering PNN El Cocuy you must obtain your permit from the park office in El Cocuy village or Güicán. You will be asked on which day you plan to enter and on which you plan to leave. You can be flexible on the first, but not the second. If you do not return by that date and report to a park office, search and rescue operations will begin. You can, theoretically, extend the date before expiration, but communications are difficult (including cell phones). Best to ask for more time than you believe you need. You will also be asked to which areas you will be going.

If you wish to go into the northern sectors of the parque nacional, you will additionally have to apply to the U'wa nation (office in Bogotá), as this is part of its territory. Granting of this permission is not guaranteed.

Entry to PNN El Cocuy is prohibited for those under 12 years or over 60 years, pregnant women, and persons with cardiovascular or pulmonary problems.

The permit is $2.10 for national students (including university, with ID), $4.20 for Colombians and $12.10 for foreigners.