A magical place between Bogotá and San Agustin
Different than its name and the hot weather suggest (sometimes it can even reach up to 50°C), the Tatacoa desert is not really a desert. It’s a semi-arid zone with dry tropical forest. Being a very unique ecosystem in Colombia, this area is definitely worth a visit. For photography lovers, this is an amazing travel destination.
Trek different parts of the desert together with a local tour guide or go for a tuk tuk ride through this Colombian desert. Its surreal landscapes exist of red and grey cliffs, being eroded by the exceptional rain and surrounded by dry canyons and mountains. Find fruit-bearing cacti, a minimum of 70 bird species as well as weasels and scorpions. The best-known areas are El Cozco, the breathtaking red desert, and Los Hoyos, the grey desert with its moon-like terrain. In the middle of the grey desert you can cool off by taking a dip in the public swimming pool, while enjoying cold beers and drinks.
The sunset in the Tatacoa desert is one of the most breathtaking experiences in Colombia. While the purple and pink sky reflects on the unique scenery of Tatacoa, you can surrender to the power of silence. Without any light pollution, the desert is being one of the best spots in South-America for stargazing. Visit the astronomic observatory to enjoy a star gazing show given by a resident professor of astronomy.
Spend the night in the desert itself or in closeby town Villavieja, which is located only 15 minutes from the desert.
Tatacoa Desert
