The El Cocuy National Natural Park, with its rich history and strategic location in the Northeastern Andes Region of Colombia, represents a sanctuary of biodiversity and adventure. This park, spanning an extensive area of pristine nature, offers a refuge for a wide range of endemic species and is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its geographical significance, hosting some of the country’s mightiest peaks, makes it a point of interest not only for scientists and conservationists but also for travelers from around the world.
Content
- 1 Geographical Location of El Cocuy National Natural Park
- 2 Geography and Climate of El Cocuy
- 3 Recommended Excursions and Activities
- 4 What to See and Do in El Cocuy National Natural ParkActivities
- 5 Flora of El Cocuy
- 6 Flora of El Cocuy
- 7 Local Culture and Traditions in the Park
- 8 How to get to El Cocuy, Colombia
- 9 Conservation and Environmental Challenges
Geographical Location of El Cocuy National Natural Park
El Cocuy is located in Colombia, in the departments of Arauca, Boyacá, and Casanare. Its geographical coordinates are 6°26′00″N latitude and 72°17′00″W longitude. With temperatures ranging from -20 to 14 °C, this national park, managed by SINAP – Minambiente, was created on May 2, 1977. Covering an area of 3,060 km², it spans altitudes ranging from 600 meters above sea level to its highest point, Ritacuba Blanco peak, at 5,410 meters high. In 2006, it received 4,543 visitors.
Geography and Climate of El Cocuy
Terrain Description
El Cocuy stands out for its impressive geography, which includes mighty glaciers, valleys, and towering peaks. This diversity of landscapes offers spectacular and challenging scenarios for visitors, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Climate
The climate is as diverse as its landscapes. From warm to cold and páramo zones, temperatures range from -20 to 30 °C, offering a varied climatic experience throughout the park. It experiences significant seasonal variations, with weather that can change from sunny and dry to cold and snowy within hours. It is essential for visitors to prepare adequately, wearing appropriate clothing and following the recommendations of local guides for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Park Hydrography
The park feeds two important hydrographic basins: that of the Magdalena River and that of the Orinoco River, both of which flow into the Caribbean Sea. The Magdalena River basin is connected to the park through the Chicamocha River, whose main tributary descending from the park is the Nevado River. On the other hand, the Orinoco River basin divides into two branches, feeding the Casanare and Arauca rivers. Of the latter, the rivers Cobaria, Bojaba, and Rifles originate near Laguna de Los Verdes.
Main Rivers of the Arauca River Basin
Garrapato, Culebras, Orozco, Chuscal, La Unión, Rifles, Cabugón, Derrumbado, Támara, Cobaría, Royata, Bojabá.
Main Lagoons of the Park
- Laguna Grande de la Sierra
- Laguna de la Plaza
- Laguna de Los Verdes
- Laguna del Avellanal
- Laguna de los Témpanos
- Laguna de La Isla
These lagoons are just some of the natural wonders that El Cocuy National Natural Park has to offer to visitors seeking to explore its fascinating hydrography and unique landscapes.
Main Snowy Peaks
The snowy peaks are prominent features of the mighty Sierra Nevada del Cocuy. These towering summits, covered in snow and ice, offer spectacular views and challenges for adventurers. Below is a list of the most prominent snowy peaks in the region, along with their corresponding altitudes.
| Peak | Altitude (m above sea level) |
|---|---|
| Ritacuba Blanco | 5410 |
| Ritacuba Negro | 5340 |
| San Pablín Sur | 5290 |
| Pan de Azúcar | 5250 |
| El Castillo | 5170 |
| Cóncavo | 5165 |
| San Pablín Norte | 5112 |
| San Pablines Norte | 5200 |
| Pico San Antonio | 5070 |
| Picacho | 5063 |
| Pico Guicán | 5057 |
| Puntiagudo | 5050 |
| La Aguja | 5040 |
| Púlpito del Diablo | 5020 |
| Pico sin Nombre | 5010 |
| Toti | 5010 |
| Pico U’wa | 4980 |
| Campanillas Blanco | 4954 |
| Portales | 4940 |
Recommended Excursions and Activities
The snowy peaks like Ritacuba Blanco and Púlpito del Diablo, along with the glacial lagoons such as Laguna Grande de la Sierra, are just a few of the countless attractions. The hiking and climbing routes in El Cocuy offer unique experiences to explore these majestic landscapes.
What to See and Do in El Cocuy National Natural ParkActivities
Snowy Peaks
Among the most outstanding attractions of El Cocuy, the snow-capped peaks capture the essence of the park’s natural beauty. Ritacuba Blanco, being the highest, offers spectacular views that are the dream of any mountaineer, while Pulpito del Diablo, with its unique shape, attracts climbers from around the world for its challenge and beauty. Remember that you can also see more mountains in the Los Nevados National Natural Park, another of the most well-known and visited areas by Colombians although located at quite a distance, it is another interesting visit to experience the country’s nature
Glacial Lagoons
The glacial lagoons, with Laguna Grande de la Sierra at the forefront, present a landscape of tranquility and vibrant colors contrasting with the white of the snowy peaks. These lagoons are the result of centuries of glacial activity and offer a perfect setting for photography and nature contemplation.
Hiking and Climbing Routes
El Cocuy is a paradise for trekking and climbing enthusiasts. With hiking routes that traverse diverse landscapes, from paramos to glacial valleys, visitors can immerse themselves in the majesty of the park. Climbing
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most accessible and rewarding activities in El Cocuy. The trails traverse varied landscapes, from flowery valleys to rugged mountains, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the majesty of the park at their own pace.
Ice Climbing
For adrenaline lovers, ice climbing in the glaciers of El Cocuy presents a unique opportunity. Equipped with ice axes and crampons, climbers can tackle icy walls under the guidance of local experts.
Flora and Fauna Observation
Flora and fauna observation is a peaceful activity that allows visitors to connect with nature. El Cocuy is home to endemic species and rare sightings of animals, such as the Andean condor, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Flora of El Cocuy
It encompasses a wide range of thermal floors, hosting unparalleled plant richness.
From the foothills of the llanos, which extend over 700 meters above sea level, to the sub-Andean jungle between 700 and 2300 meters above sea level, the vegetation is varied and lush. Here, epiphytes and tree ferns thrive in a high-humidity environment, accompanied by trees such as yopo, chusque, cedar, and totumo.
As we ascend to the Andean forest, between 2300 and 3200 meters above sea level, we encounter forests rich in species of encenillo and canelos, dominating the tree canopy.
Finally, in the paramo strip that extends from 3200 to 4200 meters above sea level, the vegetation transforms into a landscape of frailejones, grasslands, and puyas. It is here where emblematic species such as the branched tree frailejón are found, which can reach heights of up to 5 meters. On the western slope, the drier paramos are home to species such as alders, colorados, and paramo straw, along with a wide variety of angiosperms.
In summary, the plant diversity of El Cocuy National Natural Park is impressive, providing a unique spectacle to visitors exploring its different ecosystems.
Flora of El Cocuy
Due to its geolocation in the Northeastern Andes, it hosts a surprising diversity of fauna thanks to its varied ecosystems.
Here, visitors may have the opportunity to spot majestic birds such as the Andean condor and the royal eagle. In addition, emblematic mammals such as the jaguar, the ocelot, and the white-tailed deer inhabit these lands.
Among the most curious species are the woolly monkey, the armadillo, and the spectacled bear, which contribute to the richness of wildlife in the park.
Although it is believed that the paramo tapir no longer resides within the park boundaries, the opportunity to spot these fascinating creatures remains part of the unique experience offered by El Cocuy.
Local Culture and Traditions in the Park
El Cocuy is not only rich in biodiversity but also in culture. Indigenous communities in the region share a deep relationship with the land, manifested in their traditions and festivities. Getting to know these cultural expressions offers an enriching perspective on the importance of nature and conservation.
Communities in El Cocuy National Natural Park
Within the boundaries of the protected area El Cocuy, diverse communities coexist with nature and contribute to life in the region.
On one hand, there are settlers from the highlands bordering the western part of the park. These communities use the area for activities such as grazing and cultivation, being an integral part of the economic and social life in the area.
In the lowlands of the park, there are also settler communities from the eastern llanos region. These communities bring their own cultural and economic dynamics to the area.
Additionally, within the park, there is an indigenous U’wa or Tunebo community. These indigenous groups reside in a reserve that overlaps with the park area. They engage in traditional activities such as farming, herding, hunting, and fishing, maintaining a close relationship with the land and the natural resources surrounding them.
How to get to El Cocuy, Colombia
Planning your visit to El Cocuy is essential. From how to get there to where to stay, including safety tips, this guide is designed to help visitors enjoy a safe and enriching experience in one of Colombia’s most stunning national parks.
To access El Cocuy National Natural Park, you can depart from the towns of Güicán and El Cocuy, in the department of Boyacá. It is mandatory to register at the National Parks office located in these municipalities. Access routes can be taken from three geographical points:
- Route from Bogotá to El Cocuy and Güicán:
- Bogotá – Tunja – Duitama – Soatá – Capitanejo – El Espino (Boyacá) – El Cocuy – Güicán.
- Route from Bogotá to El Cocuy and Güicán via Boavita:
- Bogotá – Tunja – Duitama – Boavita – La Uvita – Panqueba – El Cocuy – Güicán.
In the western area of the park, there are three access routes:
- Route from Güicán to Cabañas Kanwara:
- Güicán – Cabañas Kanwara (junction towards Laguna Grande de los Verdes and RitakUwa Glacier).
- Route from Güicán or El Cocuy to Hacienda la Esperanza:
- Güicán or El Cocuy – Hacienda la Esperanza (access to Laguna Grande de la Sierra and "La Cueva de la Cuchumba").
- Route from Güicán or El Cocuy to Alto de la Cueva:
- Güicán or El Cocuy – Alto de la Cueva (Lagunillas trail to reach the base of Pan de Azúcar).
It is essential to be accompanied by a guide and follow the trails indicated by the National Parks System. Summiting or stepping on snow is prohibited due to the request of the U’wa community, who argue that footsteps accelerate glacier melting.
Conservation and Environmental Challenges
El Cocuy National Natural Park faces several environmental challenges such as climate change that affect its biodiversity and conservation status.
One of the main concerns is the pressure on natural resources due to human activity. Both peasant communities and indigenous groups use the park’s resources, generating significant pressure on the fauna and flora that are sought to be preserved. In particular, the foothills of the llanos suffer deterioration due to the activity of settlers from the eastern llanos in search of wood, which also occurs in the high Andean forest zone.
Grazing and soil burning by U’wa communities and settlers in high areas of the park have caused significant environmental damage, such as landslides and soil degradation, severely affecting vegetation and native species habitat.
Additionally, tourist overexploitation of the park is a growing concern. The lack of a comprehensive ecotourism policy has led to an overload of visitors, garbage dumping on trails, and degradation of water sources due to the use of pack animals. This results in water pollution, destruction of flora, and a negative tourist experience.
Addressing these environmental issues is crucial to ensure the long-term conservation of El Cocuy National Natural Park and to maintain its natural beauty for future generations.