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Short transfer from Villa de Leyva brings you to La Periquera’s trio of falls and natural pools. This guided half‑day hike mixes brisk streams, exposed rock steps, and a stop for local food in Santa Sofía.
Short transfer from Villa de Leyva brings you to La Periquera’s trio of falls and natural pools. This guided half‑day hike mixes brisk streams, exposed rock steps, and a stop for local food in Santa Sofía.
You turn off the rutted road and the valley opens: a ribbon of river threads downhill, daring you toward a cluster of falls framed by weathered sandstone and paramo scrub. The trail into La Periquera slips between willow and eucalyptus, each step bringing the rush of water forward until a 15‑meter drop announces itself in a raw, wet voice.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by No Hay Vida Mejor · Sutamarchán, Boyacá
You turn off the rutted road and the valley opens: a ribbon of river threads downhill, daring you toward a cluster of falls framed by weathered sandstone and paramo scrub. The trail into La Periquera slips between willow and eucalyptus, each step bringing the rush of water forward until a 15‑meter drop announces itself in a raw, wet voice.
The La Periquera area sits within Boyacá’s uplands, carved from volcanic and sedimentary layers that give the falls their stepped cliffs and clear plunge pools. The route follows old farm tracks and park‑maintained footpaths that local guides have used for years; the surrounding towns, including Sutamarchán and Villa de Leyva, reflect colonial era stonework and Muisca farming heritage.
Expect three main cascades with pockets of shallow pools suited for cooling off; currents can be brisk where the river funnels through narrow rock. Guides typically lead a looped hike and point out endemic plants and birds en route, finishing with a stop in nearby Santa Sofía for traditional fare.
Practical edge: the outing is short but includes road transfer, so wear sturdy shoes with good tread, bring a refillable water bottle, and pack a quick rain layer—the highlands can change fast. Midday light gives the best photos, but early departures are cooler and quieter. Leave soaps and sunscreen out of the water, follow your guide’s instructions around slippery rock, and plan for roughly half a day including transport back to Villa de Leyva.
moderate.
4–7 hours.
Moderate; able to hike uneven trails for 1–2 hours and manage short uphill sections.
Guided walking time on the trail is about 1–2 hours round trip; the full tour including transport and a lunch stop is typically 4–7 hours.
Children who can manage uneven ground and short uphill sections can join, but not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Yes — there are shallow plunge pools at the falls; always follow your guide’s safety guidance and avoid entering where currents are strong.
The tour includes a stop in Santa Sofía where you can buy local food; bring cash for purchases and any dietary needs to inform the operator in advance.
The valley lies within territory historically farmed by Muisca communities and later shaped by colonial cattle and crop routes that still influence local settlement patterns.
Trails are maintained by park authorities and guides; visitors are asked to stay on marked paths, avoid soaps in water, and carry out trash to protect fragile highland streams.
No Hay Vida Mejor operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You turn off the rutted road and the valley opens: a ribbon of river threads downhill, daring you toward a cluster of falls framed by weathered sandstone and paramo scrub. The trail into La Periquera slips between willow and eucalyptus, each step bringing the rush of water forward until a 15‑meter drop announces itself in a raw, wet voice.
You turn off the rutted road and the valley opens: a ribbon of river threads downhill, daring you toward a cluster of falls framed by weathered sandstone and paramo scrub. The trail into La Periquera slips between willow and eucalyptus, each step bringing the rush of water forward until a 15‑meter drop announces itself in a raw, wet voice.
The La Periquera area sits within Boyacá’s uplands, carved from volcanic and sedimentary layers that give the falls their stepped cliffs and clear plunge pools. The route follows old farm tracks and park‑maintained footpaths that local guides have used for years; the surrounding towns, including Sutamarchán and Villa de Leyva, reflect colonial era stonework and Muisca farming heritage.
Expect three main cascades with pockets of shallow pools suited for cooling off; currents can be brisk where the river funnels through narrow rock. Guides typically lead a looped hike and point out endemic plants and birds en route, finishing with a stop in nearby Santa Sofía for traditional fare.
Practical edge: the outing is short but includes road transfer, so wear sturdy shoes with good tread, bring a refillable water bottle, and pack a quick rain layer—the highlands can change fast. Midday light gives the best photos, but early departures are cooler and quieter. Leave soaps and sunscreen out of the water, follow your guide’s instructions around slippery rock, and plan for roughly half a day including transport back to Villa de Leyva.