Santuario de Flora y Fauna de Iguaque

Location:
Vía Arcabuco
Villa de Leiva , Colombia

Other Activity Types:
Wildlife refuge

By Lorraine Caputo

Amidst the chill mists swirling across this páramo, the goddess Bachue rose from the crystalline waters of Laguna de Iguaque. Thus was born mankind, according to Muisca legend. It is believed a pilgrimage to this sacred place cleanses the soul and purifies the spirit. The Laguna lies in the midst of the 6,800-hectacre Santuario de Flora y Fauna Iguaque. This park cradles wetland forests and páramo lands between 2440-3660 meters (8,000-12,000 feet) and eight lagoons. A hiking path to Laguna de Iguaque has signs describing the special environment of this sanctuary.

Getting There
Tour agents in Villa de Leyva and Tunja make daytrips to the Park. If you want to arrive yourself, take a bus heading towards Arcabuco and alight at the park entrance. This road is very rough road. To walk to Laguna de Iguaque takes 3.5 hours there and 3

Travel Tips: To enter the park, it is not necessary to ask prior permission. You pay at the ranger station at the park itself.

Accommodation within the park is available. The Furachiougua cabin (Muisca, meaning “good woman”) sleeps 6-8 ($14 per person per night). Camping is only allowed in the designated site near the administrative center; take all equipment with you (low season: one-time charge of $2.15 for site, plus $2.15 per night per person; high season: $3.70 for site plus $3.70 per person per night). There is a restaurant.

Price Description: Nationals: Adults $3.45, children and third agers $1.85. Foreigners: $12

Relative price: Mid-Range

Travel Skills: None

You Need to Bring: The climate is cold, with temperatures ranging 4-12°C (39-53°F). Hypothermia is a danger. Take warm clothing, raingear, water, high energy food. If camping, a good, waterproof tent and sleeping bag.

San Pedro de Iguaque, Mamá Ramos, archaeological area with rock paintings. Lake Iguaque (a 3-hour walk). There are oak forests and some small lakes, including Monte Empedrada, Colorada, Carrizal, Cazadero and Ojo de Agua.

Currencies accepted
Colombian Peso

Contact Information:
E-mail: norandin(at)remove-this.col1.telecom.com.co
URL: www.parquesnacionales.gov.co/areas/lasareas/iguaque/iguaintro.htm