Santuario de Flora y Fauna Iguaque

The Santuario de Flora y Fauna Iguaque is a high-altitude national park centred on a cluster of páramo lagoons, the most important of which — Laguna Iguaque — was sacred to the Muisca people as the birthplace of humanity. The park protects one of the finest cloud forest and páramo ecosystems in Boyacá, rising from the dry scrubland around Villa de Leyva to high treeless moorland at over 3,600 metres.

The main trail from the park entrance to Laguna Iguaque is about 7 kilometres each way, with an elevation gain of around 900 metres. It passes through cloud forest filled with orchids, bromeliads, and hummingbirds before emerging into open páramo with extraordinary views. The lake itself sits in a bowl of moorland, silent and often shrouded in mist — a genuinely wild-feeling place despite its accessibility. The hike takes 4 to 6 hours return and requires reasonable fitness. Bring warm layers — the páramo is cold even in the dry season.

things to do sight wildlife
A story
The Muisca people considered Laguna Iguaque the place of origin of all humanity — from its waters emerged Bachué, the mother of the human race, carrying a small child. After populating the earth, she returned to the lake and transformed into a serpent, diving beneath the surface forever. The lagoon is still considered sacred by communities who maintain Muisca traditions.