Hiking Chicaque Natural Park: High Andean Forests Near Bogotá

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

Morning light slices through cloud and cedar as a small group leaves Bogotá behind, descending toward the misted slopes of Chicaque. The air cools with each turn; moss thickens on trunks and the path threads through a high-Andean forest where the canopy breathes and the trail opens to sweeping valley views at the Rock Pick viewpoint.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8–9 hours.

Fitness level

Moderate fitness; able to handle sustained uphill hiking with frequent short rests

Frequently asked questions

How long is the hike and how strenuous?

The full outing is a full-day trip (about 8–9 hours door-to-door); on-trail hiking includes a 2 km initial descent, time at viewpoints and waterfall, then a sustained, steeper ascent—classified as moderate.

Is lunch included?

A small break and coffee are included; a typical hot lunch at the lodge is optional and paid locally.

Are there transportation and pick-up options from Bogotá?

Yes—private transportation from central Bogotá (meeting at El Dorado Plaza) is included in the tour price as described in the booking details.

Can I avoid the uphill return?

Yes—the lodge offers a jeep transfer for an extra local fee to return to the park entrance for those who prefer not to hike the final ascent.

Local insights

Wildlife

Hummingbirds
Tanager species
Agouti (rodent)
Spectacled bear (rare, occasional evidence)

History

The park occupies high-Andean woodland once used by the Muisca and later conserved privately to protect cloud-forest species near Bogotá.

Conservation

Visitors are asked to stick to trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and carry out waste—the cloud forest’s thin soils and endemic species are sensitive to disturbance.

About CARLO LEANDRO GODOY PAZOS

CARLO LEANDRO GODOY PAZOS operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationSan Antonio (Soacha), Cundinamarca

Tours offered4+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Hydrate and pace the climbCarry at least 1.5–2 L of water and set an even pace for the final steep ascent to avoid fatigue and breathlessness.

Wear grippy footwearTrails include wet roots and slick rock—sturdy hiking boots with good tread reduce slip risk.

Bring cash for lunch and jeepThe lodge accepts cash for an optional typical lunch and the return jeep if you choose to skip the uphill hike.

Watch for fragile habitatsStay on marked trails and avoid disturbing understory vegetation and nesting birds to minimize impact.

Recommended gear

Water bottle or hydration bladder (1.5–2 L): Keeps you hydrated across a long day and during the steep return climb.
Waterproof rain jacket: Protects against sudden cloud-forest showers and wind at higher viewpoints.
Sturdy hiking boots: Essential for traction on muddy, root-strewn sections and rocky viewpoints.
Binoculars and camera: Helps spot hummingbirds, tanagers and capture the waterfall and valley views.