Santuario de Fauna y Flora Laguna de Iguaque

Santuario de Fauna y Flora Laguna de Iguaque Review

The Santuario de Fauna y Flora Laguna de Iguaque, a national wildlife sanctuary, lies 15 km (9 mi) north of Villa de Leyva. The centerpiece is the lake itself, which the Muiscas believed was the source of all life. Hiking the 8 km (5 mi) 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. Entry to the Santuario costs 20,000 pesos.