Back

Visit Iguaque National Sanctuary

Iguaque National Reserve

Explore a beautiful landscape of undulating Andean peaks, mist-shrouded páramo and mystical lakes.

The mist rolling over this empty wilderness of lakes and craggy hills lends an eerie beauty to the striking landscapes of Iguaque National Sanctuary. The highlight of a visit is the ascent to San Pedro de Iguaque lake at 3,000m, revered by the Muisca Indians as the sacred source of all the world’s water.

Begin by following a trail through the subtropical cloud forest and out onto the open páramo, a high-altitude ecosystem typical of the lower reaches of the Andes. After passing an array of scenic vistas you’ll arrive at the mystical lake, which ancient mythology also held to be the birthplace of Mother Earth.

The sanctuary is just 20km from the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva, itself just a 3-4 hour drive from Bogotá, so it is pleasingly accessible.

Papagaio

Your edit for Latin American inspiration

Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.

View Extraordinary Inspiration
Bartolome, Galápagos

Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

  • Finn Clennett
    Finn Clennett - Travel Expert

  • Hannah
    Hannah Donaldson - Travel Expert

    Having spent part of her childhood in Colombia and worked in Brazil and Costa Rica, Hannah's ties to Latin America run deep. Hannah is a much valued Travel Expert in our Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tours sales team.

  • Heloise
    Heloise Buxton - Travel Expert

    Heloise started her Latin American journey as an exchange student in Santiago, Chile. With extended summer holidays this was the perfect opportunity to backpack through Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Brazil.

  • Rosie profile
    Rosie Kay - Travel Expert

    During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.

  • Chris
    Chris Rendell-Dunn - Travel Expert

    Anglo-Peruvian Chris grew up in Lima and spent much of his adult life in between London and Cusco as a tour leader, before settling permanently in our London-based Tailor-made and Group Tours sales team.

  • Maggie
    Maggie Wilson - Travel Expert

    Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.

0 1 2 3 4 5