The Largest Tropical Glaciers in Colombia

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Colombia’s largest tropical glaciers. These majestic ice formations offer a unique contrast against the lush Andean scenery, creating a stunning backdrop for your adventure.

Heritage Towns of Cocuy and Guicán

El Cocuy, Boyacá
Elevation: 2750 m.a.s.l.

As the provincial capital, El Cocuy is a town steeped in history, being the fourth settlement established in the New Kingdom of Granada in 1541. It proudly preserves its traditional architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into its colonial past. The locals, known for their traditional attire of ruanas and wide-brimmed hats, engage in ancestral crafts, agriculture, and cattle farming, making El Cocuy a vibrant tapestry of culture and heritage.

Guicán, Boyacá
Elevation: 2950 m.a.s.l. Nestled in a rugged, high-altitude setting, Guicán is an ancient town historically inhabited by the indigenous Uwa community. This resilient society continues to fight for its cultural preservation, respect, and autonomy, offering visitors an authentic insight into their enduring traditions and way of life.

Acclimatization Journey & Cultural Immersion

Beyond the physical preparation for high-altitude trekking, your journey includes immersive experiences in local architecture, gastronomy, and cultural traditions. Savor traditional Boyacense dishes, admire colonial-era buildings, and connect with the rich history that defines this region.

Get ready to explore the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Boyacá, where every step reveals a new story.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

• Meeting Point: El Cocuy at 8:00 am. Welcome session and guide introduction.
• Park Registration: Virtual meeting with the National Park authorities (mandatory).
• Local Exploration: Short trip to explore El Cocuy’s history, architecture, crafts, and local coffee.
• Ascent to Rural Lodge: Drive to a rural lodge at 3350 m.a.s.l.
• Acclimatization Walk: Gentle hike around 3800 m.a.s.l. to explore local flora, fauna, and farming activities.
• Accommodation: Overnight at a rural cabin managed by a local family. Beds and blankets provided.
• Meals: Dinner included.

Day 2: South Trek - Lagunillas & Púplito del Diablo

• Start Time: 6:00 am from 3900 m.a.s.l.
• Route: Cross the Lagunillas glacier valley and Laguna Pintada (páramo lake), ascend old moraines, and view towering peaks over 5000 m.a.s.l.
• Highlight: Reach the glacier at 4850 m.a.s.l. with direct views of “Púplito del Diablo” and Pan de Azúcar glacier (5150 m.a.s.l.).
• Distance: 17 km round trip.
• Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
• Temperature Range: -2°C to 18°C.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 3: Center Trek - Laguna Grande de la Sierra

• Start Time: 6:00 am from 3600 m.a.s.l.
• Route: Hike through high Andean forest for the first 3 km, followed by a trek through the frailejón valley and páramo ecosystems.
• Highlight: Reach the glacier lake at 4700 m.a.s.l., the second largest in the park, surrounded by peaks over 5000 m.
• Distance: 21 km round trip.
• Duration: Approximately 10 hours.
• Temperature Range: -2°C to 18°C.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 4: North Trek - Ritacuba

• Start Time: 6:00 am from the Playitas River Valley at 3900 m.a.s.l.
• Route: Hike through frailejón valleys and super páramo ecosystems.
• Highlight: Reach the glacier border at 4950 m.a.s.l., the highest accessible point.
• Distance: 15 km round trip.
• Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
• Temperature Range: -2°C to 18°C.
• Meals: Breakfast and lunch included.

Inclusions

• Accommodation: 3 nights at a rural refuge at 3400 m.a.s.l. managed by a local farmer family, offering simple guest rooms with shared WC/shower.
• Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners featuring local cuisine.
• Transportation: 4WD Montero Mitsubishi for all expedition days:
  • Day 1: Transfer from El Cocuy to the lodge.
  • Day 2-4: Transfers to trek starting points and returns.
• Park Entrance & Travel Insurance: Mandatory registration and insurance provided.
• Local Guide: Professional, English-speaking local guide with 12 years of experience, trained in high-mountain search and rescue.

Exclusions

• Snacks for hikes (suggest high-calorie items like nuts, cookies, chocolate, dried fruits).
• Transportation from Bogotá to El Cocuy (110,000 COP one-way).

Pricing

• 2 Pax: 2,960,000 COP

Reservation Process

• Reserve with a 50% deposit. Full payment required at least 2 days before the expedition.
• Send a photo of your passport for National Park registration.

Additional Notes

• Physical Requirements: Suitable for individuals in good physical condition due to high-altitude, strenuous hiking.
• Altitude Acclimatization: Spend at least two nights above 2500 m.a.s.l. prior to the trek.
• Health Restrictions: Not recommended for people with heart or lung conditions, epilepsy, pregnant women, children under 12, or adults over 65.
• Hydration: Essential to drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.
• Safety: Follow guide instructions, stay with the group, and respect local ecosystems and wildlife.

El Cocuy National Natural Park

Located in the eastern range of the Colombian Andes in the department of Boyacá, El Cocuy National Natural Park is home to Colombia’s largest glacier. The park features approximately 30 km² of glacier area and over 20 snow-capped peaks exceeding 5000 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). The park offers three official hiking trails, covering more than 50 km of mountainous terrain between 3600 and 5330 m.a.s.l. The area is rich in diverse flora and fauna, including eagles, hummingbirds, lizards, deer, pumas, and bears.
For more general information on El Cocuy National Natural Park, refer to the Official Website.

How to Get There from Bogotá

Public Transport:

• Buses depart from Terminal Salitre or Terminal del Norte at 6:00 am, 2:00 pm, 6:00 pm, and 9:00 pm.
• Ticket cost: 100,000 COP.
• Average travel time: 10 hours.
• Bus companies: Libertadores and Paz de Rio.

Private Transport:

• Drive via the highway north from Bogotá to the city of Tunja, passing through Duitama, Soatá, Boavita, Guacamayas, and finally El Cocuy.
• The route covers approximately 400 km with 4 tolls, each costing around 10,000 COP.
• Private transportation can be arranged from Bogotá, Tunja, San Gil, Barichara, and Villa de Leyva.

What to Bring

To be well-prepared for the geographical features and variable climatic conditions, it is important to have appropriate gear. The extreme ecosystems present low temperatures, spontaneous rain, icy winds, low pressure, and reduced oxygen levels. Recommended clothing and gear include:

• First thermal layer
• Second layer (fleece)
• Thermal jacket
• Rain jacket
• Thermal pants
• Comfortable hiking pants (no jeans)
• Hiking boots
• Extra socks
• Pajamas
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Thermal gloves
• Trekking poles
• UV-protected sunglasses
• Water bottle (potable water is available)
• Personal documents (passport)
• Personal hygiene items
• Warm hat for cold weather

Recommendations

• Acclimatization: Essential for preventing altitude sickness. Spend at least 2 nights above 2500 meters before the tour.
• Physical Condition: Suitable for hikers in good physical shape, as treks occur between 3900 and 4950 m.a.s.l. where oxygen is limited.
• Health Conditions: Not recommended for individuals with heart or lung conditions, epilepsy, pregnant women, children under 12, or adults over 65.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness. Water during hikes is safe to drink.
• Safety Tips: Avoid alcohol and psychotropic substances, do not wear jeans, stay with the group, and follow the guide’s instructions. Be mindful of your trash and avoid contaminating water sources.

Bank Information for Reservations:

• Account Holder: Sergio Ruiz Millán
• Bank: Bancolombia
• Account Number: 14119699887
• Account Type: Savings
• Swift Code: COLOCOBMXXX
• Residence Address: Villa Daniela Casa 22, El Cocuy Boyacá, Postal Code 151280