Rock art trails in Colombia hold ancient treasures and incredible stories carved into stone, waiting to be discovered.
Across the country, mountains, cliffs, and stone paths have protected these ancestral expressions for centuries, inviting nature lovers and history enthusiasts to rediscover them.
Among these archaeological wonders are pictograms—prehistoric rock paintings created by indigenous artists.
These sacred visual narratives unfold on stone walls, telling ancient stories in places where silence feels sacred and the past lingers in every detail.
5 rock art trails in Colombia: a walk you won’t want to miss
Exploring rock art trails in Colombia isn’t just a cultural experience; it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and share a meaningful day as a couple.
Walking through majestic landscapes, discovering centuries-old carvings together, and contemplating history in stillness create memories to treasure.
Here are five fascinating rock art sites in Cundinamarca that are ideal for couples seeking mystery, history, and scenic beauty. Each offers easy hikes and a peaceful, reflective atmosphere.
1. The Valley of the Pictograms
Sutatausa preserves a rich legacy of rock art that draws couples into its history and breathtaking landscapes.
To date, 81 pictogram sites have been identified in five rural areas: Casco Urbano, Santa Bárbara, Novoa, Palacio, and Salitre-Pedregal.
Among the most iconic rock formations:
Piedra del Cementerio (Cemetery Rock)
Located near Sutatausa’s municipal cemetery, this rock is known for its red and ocher pictographs.
These include anthropomorphic and geometric figures reflecting the worldview of pre-Hispanic communities.
Piedra de los Tejidos (Textile Rock)
About 150 meters west of the cemetery, this stone features intricate designs that resemble textile patterns, highlighting the importance of weaving in the region’s ancient culture.
Piedra del Diablo (Devil’s Rock)
Surrounded by local legends, this rock shows abstract symbols and shapes believed to be tied to spiritual or ritual practices.
Good to Know
- Location: In the town of Sutatausa, approx. 88 km north of Bogotá
- How to Get There: From Bogotá, take Autopista Norte to Zipaquirá, then continue toward Ubaté. Before reaching Ubaté, take the turn to Sutatausa. About 2 hours by car; buses available from Bogotá’s main terminal.
- Elevation: About 2,550 meters above sea level
- Climate: Temperate, average 14°C; dress warmly and bring rain protection
2. Piedras del Tunjo Archaeological Park
In Facatativá, the Piedras del Tunjo Park blends history, nature, and culture. It hosts one of Colombia’s largest rock art concentrations, with pictograms dating back thousands of years.
According to local legend, a Franciscan priest made a deal with the devil to move massive stones for church construction.
When the pact broke, the stones fell in Facatativá, forming today’s Piedras del Tunjo.
Key formations include:
Piedra de la Rana (Frog Rock)
Named for its frog-shaped design, a symbol of fertility in native cultures. Reddish shapes inspire curiosity about their ancient meanings.
Piedra de las Trillizas (Triplet Rock)
Three aligned stone blocks featuring geometric and human-like figures, possibly used in rituals.
Piedra del Sapo (Toad Rock)
Another amphibian-themed stone, partially buried and tilted at about 40°.
Piedra de la Serpiente (Snake Rock)
This boulder contains a cave historically used for male initiation rituals, where warriors had to survive rock and arrow attacks to prove themselves.
Piedra de la Chicha (Chicha Rock)
Used for chicha rituals (a traditional fermented drink), this massive rock allegedly has a central hole once 180 meters deep.
Piedra del Caimán (Caiman Rock)
Features forms resembling a caiman, linked to indigenous creation myths.
Traveler Info
- Location: Facatativá, 40 km west of Bogotá
- How to Get There: Via Calle 13 or Autopista Medellín; about 1 hour by car or public transport from Bogotá
- Elevation: Approx. 2,586 meters
- Climate: Average 14°C; dress warmly and bring rain gear
3. The Stones of Chivo Negro
In Bojacá, Chivo Negro is among the most important rock art trails in Colombia’s Andean region, with over 50 painted formations.
A Sacred Ceremonial Site
Research identifies this area, once called Chunubá, as a Muisca ritual center. Tribes like Bobacé, Chunzaqué, and Cubiazucá performed offerings and ceremonies here.
Red pictographs feature geometric shapes, lines, and dots. The park recently reopened with trails, signage, and a focus on cultural and ecological tourism.
Helpful Details
- Location: Bojacá, 40 km west of Bogotá
- How to Get There: Drive via Calle 13 or take a bus from Portal 80 to Bojacá; 15-minute walk from the main plaza
- Elevation: Around 2,598 meters
- Climate: Cool (13–16°C); bring light rain gear and walking shoes
4. Usca Rocks
Near Mosquera, this lesser-known destination holds one of the most significant prehistoric rock art trails in Colombia’s western Savanna.
There are 24 known pictograph groups estimated to be over 7,000 years old, with symbols tied to the Preceramic, Herrera, and Muisca periods.
The rocks lie near the southern edge of Laguna de la Herrera, a 280-hectare body of water formed over 5,000 years ago.
Note: This site is restricted; visitors need authorization from Mosquera’s local government.
Traveler Info
- Location: Vereda Balsillas, Mosquera, 25 km west of Bogotá
- How to Get There: From Portal 80 or Calle 13 by car or bus to Mosquera, then continue to Vereda Balsillas
- Elevation: About 2,540 meters
- Climate: Temperate (13–17°C); wear light, waterproof clothes and hiking footwear
5. The Rocks of Tibacuy (Cerro Quininí)
In Tibacuy, Cerro Quininí (“Sacred Moon Mountain” in Muisca) was a sacred site for the Panche people. It’s now a blend of stunning nature and ancestral heritage, ideal for couples.
Cerro Quininí is home to several remarkable rock formations that tell the story of ancient traditions, spiritual rituals, and the everyday life of its early inhabitants.
Piedra del Gritadero (Shouting Rock)
Used for power rituals where warriors shouted to gather strength.
Piedra del Parto (Birthing Rock)
Sacred place where Panche women gave birth under the moon goddess’ protection.
Piedra Lavapatas (Foot-Washing Rock)
Used for warrior purification rituals before important events.
Cabeza del Indio (Indian’s Head)
A natural rock formation resembling a human profile, symbolizing guardianship.
Pico del Águila (Eagle Peak)
Spiritual vortex where souls were believed to transcend.
Need-to-Know
- Location: Cerro Quininí, Tibacuy, 87 km southwest of Bogotá
- How to Get There: Drive toward Girardot, then detour to Fusagasugá and Tibacuy. Hire a local guide for the hike.
- Elevation: Up to 2,100 meters
- Climate: Warm-temperate (18–24°C); bring sun protection, water, and comfortable hiking clothes
When visiting rock art sites, always be respectful: do not touch the paintings or disturb the natural setting. Hiring a local guide enhances the experience by providing rich historical and cultural insights.
Whether you’re history lovers or simply curious travelers, rock art trails in Colombia promise a meaningful journey through the country’s rich and mystical past