Fodor's Expert Review Santuario de Fauna y Flora Laguna de Iguaque

Villa de Leyva

This national wildlife sanctuary lies 15 km (9 miles) north of Villa de Leyva. There are seven glacial lakes, scattered at altitudes ranging between 7,500 feet and 12,000 feet, but the centerpiece is the Laguna de Iguaque, which the Muiscas believed was the source of all life; it's still a commonly held belief. Hiking the 8 km (5 mile) trail, which winds its way uphill through cloud forest, isn't easy. Wear practical boots, and be prepared for cold and rainy weather, as the temperature can fall to near freezing. It's worth it when you reach the páramo, a climatic zone with a unique plant system. Here you'll find unusual flora such as the ubiquitous frailejón (literally, "big friar"), a gray felt-leaf plant from the Espletia family. At the trailhead are cabins and a cafeteria.

Quick Facts

Boyacá  Colombia

www.parquesnacionales.gov.co

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: 42,000 pesos

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