If you love hiking near Bogotá, you’re in for a treat. Here there are five special eco‑friendly hikes just a couple of hours from the city. Perfect for nature lovers, couples, and even your four‑legged companion.
Picture green mountains, hidden waterfalls, dramatic lookouts, and ancestral trails—this is your chance to reconnect with the earth, with the one you love, and, of course, with your pup.
The Ubaté Valley, a lush playground for hiking near Bogotá
About 53 miles north of the capital, Bogotá, the Ubaté Valley is packed with gorgeous trails.
Imagine wandering through pine forests, discovering secret waterfalls, standing on sky-high viewpoints, and walking paths steeped in history.
Below are five unforgettable hikes—pick the one that calls to your adventurous heart, because sometimes walking is the best way to travel within.
1. Ascend Cerro de la Teta – fall in love with the forest and its breathtaking views
Start at Ubaté’s main plaza, home to the lovely Minor Basilica of the Santo Cristo. The Cerro de la Teta—also known as “el cerro de las lajas”—is famous for its rich flora and fauna.
Its name comes from the silhouette of a reclining woman seen from town.
These 2.3 miles route from the plaza leads through pine groves, rocky outcrops, and breathtaking panoramas—every step is worth it.
The trail follows an old royal road toward Volcán and Soagá villages and was recently upgraded for walkers.
Trail essentials
- Distance & elevation: From a quick 2.3 miles route to up to 10.6 miles with extensions to Carmen de Carupa; summit around 9,800–10,500 ft.
- Time: A straight route takes ~1 hr 05 min; full circuit ~6 hours.
- Terrain: Native forests, pine groves, rock slabs, climbing zones, and rolling hills.
- Difficulty: Moderate for experienced hikers; some “difficult” sections with technical parts and up to 2,600 ft elevation gain.
Why it’s so appealing
- Stunning views of the Basilica, the Santa Bárbara and Sutatausa cliffs, and the Cucunubá and Fúquene lagoons.
- Diverse landscapes from pine forests to rocky passages and highland vegetation.
- Living history: you walk on an 18th‑century royal path connecting local villages.
Tips for a great hike
- Choose your route:
- Short & sweet: 2.3 miles loop, ideal for a morning outing.
- Extended: 10.6 miles to Carmen de Carupa, ~6 hrs for the more adventurous.
- Best time to start: 7–8 am for cooler weather and better light on the summit.
- Gear up: trekking boots or sturdy sneakers, layered waterproof and warm clothing (53–68 °F), water, snacks, sunscreen.
- Bring friends (and pups!): dog-friendly trail, and local guides add history and ecological insight.
- Return trip: If you go extended, catch a taxi or local bus from Carmen de Carupa (approx. 5,000–6,000 COP).
Why you’ll fall for this trek
- Real nature connection: crunch of leaves, mountain silence, breathtaking vistas—perfect for recharging.
- Living history: centuries-old trail walked by Muysca peoples and colonial travelers.
- A summit reward: reaching the top hugs you with a sweeping valley panorama.
2. Explore the towering Farallones de Sutatausa
Calling all thrill-seekers: these rocky cliffs soar above Sutatausa, offering epic views and a deep connection with nature and history.
Just minutes from Hotel Sumangá, you’ll stand face-to-face with Muysca rock art and take on moderate‑to‑challenging climbs.
Legend tells of a tragic moment in 1514, when thousands of Tausa, Suta, and Cucunuba peoples chose to jump from these cliffs rather than fall under Spanish control—a powerful story woven into the landscape.
Trail info
- Distance: Typically 5–10 miles (roundtrip or loop).
- Elevation gain: 1,300 ft (short routes) up to 3,200 ft (extended).
- Altitude: Around 10,000 ft, peaks up to 11,000 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult—rocky paths, sharp climbs, slippery sections in rain.
Trail highlights
- Unique rock formations: traverse narrow cliff edges with panoramic views.
- Muysca rock art: stumble upon ancient pictograms etched in cliffs.
- Varied ecosystems: pine forests, rocky crevices, gullies, and endemic plants.
- Spectacular views: sweep your gaze across Ubaté, Cucunubá, Sutatausa, and rolling green mountains.
Tips for a comfortable hike
- Start early: 7–8 am to avoid wet, slippery rocks later in the day.
- Gear: sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles helpful.
- Necessities: water, energy snacks, sun protection, layered clothes.
- Safety: bring a charged phone and, ideally, hike with a qualified guide.
- Tailor it: short route: 2.5 miles in 2–3 hrs. Extended: up to 10 miles and 8+ hours.
What makes it memorable
- Epic triumph: standing on the edge is a heart-pounding reward.
- Cultural resonance: you walk among ancient Muysca history.
- For every hiker: great for both casual nature lovers and hardcore trekkers.
From Sumangá Boutique Hotel
- Book a local guide for safety on the steep rocky sections.
- Choose a half‑day or full‑day plan, based on your mood and stamina.
- Arrange transport to Novoa trailhead and a ride back from Sutatausa.
- Wind down afterward back at Sumangá: enjoy the spa, a hot meal, and mountain calm.
3. Cascada Media Luna – liquid magic in Cucunubá
Tucked deep in the valley of Ubaté, the Media Luna waterfall will steal your breath—and then give it back with its misty mountain spray.
Walk through Andean forests and light páramo to reach this near-mythic gem.
Trail details
- Start: in Cucunubá, from villages like La Ramada or Aguas Calientes.
- Distance & elevation: About 6–10 miles (loop or out-and-back), 2,000 ft of climb, ending near 10,000 ft.
- Time: Plan for 4–7 hours including stops.
- Difficulty: Moderate to technical, with rocky climbs and careful descents.
Why it shines
- Waterfall wow: a stunning cascade with a crystal-clear pool—perfect for a refreshing break.
- Scenic viewpoints: “piedras de la laguna” offer sweeping valley and lagoon views.
- Ecosystem variety: from forest canopy to páramo grasslands.
- Cultural charm: pass through friendly villages with Muysca heritage and local wool traditions.
Trail tips
- Pack smart: waterproof layers, warm clothes, sun hat, 2 L water, snacks.
- Go with a guide: essential for navigating less marked paths.
- Start early: aim for 7–8 am to reach the falls by midday.
- Logistics: hike out-and-back to Cucunubá or coordinate a drop off/pick-up if ending in Lenguazaque.
- Leave no trace: respect villagers and natural habitat.
What you'll love
This is the mid‑day hike near Bogotá: lush, calming, and recharging. The roar of the waterfall, endless green views, and a peaceful moment in the pool—it’s perfect for a half‑day escape.
4. Climb the Cerro de Chegua – devotion, altitude, and awe
From the peaceful village of Carmen de Carupa, hike up to the Cerro de Chegua and its striking Virgin of Carmen sanctuary. At 11,200 ft, faith meets mountain majesty.
Trail info
- Start: La Laja trailhead, a paved uphill walk to the sanctuary (~2,100 ft. elevation).
- Extended route: circle up to 10 miles, climbing 2,600 ft, reaching above 11,500 ft.
- Difficulty: Easy on the short route; moderate for the longer trail.
Trail upgrades: Safe path with signage, benches, railing, and trash bins, thanks to a COP 130 million investment
Why it’s worth it
- Sanctuary & view: reach a chapel with sweeping vistas over the El Hato reservoir and valley.
- Mountain panorama: take in rolling highland landscapes and rural beauty.
- Living culture: this is both a hiking trail and pilgrimage route connecting regional faith communities.
Best practices
- Gear: warm layers, wind protection, sturdy shoes, water, snacks, hat, sunscreen.
- Time it right: set out at 7–8 am to avoid clouds and mist.
- Trail choice:
- Short: family‑friendly ascent/descent.
- Long: for more experienced trekkers.
- Plan transport: for loop routes, arrange return from secondary roads.
- Respect the path: stick to the official trail and keep the sanctuary grounds clean.
Why you’ll fall for this hike
- Spiritual and scenic: the mix of devotion and stunning views is deeply moving.
- Safe and smooth: upgraded trail offers peace of mind.
- Tailored to you: choose your own adventure—short and sweet or all-day immersion.
5. Mirador Piedra Colgada – Susa’s heart-stopping lookout
Just southwest of Susa, you’ll find the dramatic Piedra Colgada—a rocky perch hovering 600 m above the valley, overlooking the Fúquene Lagoon. It’s equal parts thrilling and poetic.
Trail breakdown
- Distance: ~5 miles one way.
- Elevation gain: Around 2,600 ft; top reaches 10,900–11,200 ft.
- Time: Roughly 4–4½ hours round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate—rocky sections, uneven stone paths, high altitude; basic mountain experience required.
On the summit
- Heart‑pounding thrill: a 23 ft. rock slab dangling over a sheer drop—walking on air!
- Epic panorama: see from the lagoon to villages and fields below.
- Layered landscapes: enjoy Andean forests, grass páramo, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife.
- Cultural ties: significant Muysca territory near sacred Fúquene waters.
Hiker hints
- Pack essentials: tough boots, layered clothing, sun protection, at least 2 L water, snacks.
- Best departure: start at 6:30–7 am to beat the wind and catch the best light.
- Safety first: use caution on cliff edges; consider hiring a guide.
- Admission: about 7,000 COP in 2025.
- Getting there: travel from Bogotá via route 45A; final stretch is on a dirt road.
Why it captivates
- Visual thrill: feeling suspended over a void is unforgettable.
- Ancient roots: this land was sacred to the Muysca people by the sacred lagoon.
- Epic natural setting: sheer cliffs and wide sky—serene yet stirring.
Rest, Recharge and Return to Nature at Sumangá Boutique Hotel
After a day of reconnecting with the wild, you deserve a peaceful place to stay. Hotel Boutique Sumangá, tucked into the mountains of Sutatausa, is the perfect base for hiking near Bogotá.
Designed for couples traveling with pets, Sumangá offers cozy rooms, spa treatments, lush green space, and an atmosphere of pure tranquility you won’t find in the city.
Make your adventure complete: stay at Sumangá, breathe in the fresh mountain air, wake up to views of green peaks, and continue exploring the magic of the Ubaté Valley… one step at a time.