Trek to the house of the Andean bear, Mazafonte- Choachi From Bogota
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Mazafonte is a unique destination in the world. We will visit an endemic forest, full of giant frailejones (more than 10 meters), orchids and which we consider the home of the Andean bear. If you want a surprising place in terms of biodiversity and landscapes, this will undoubtedly be a place to be surprised.
This experience will be unique thanks to the accompaniment of the professional guide, who is not only a Biologist and will be able to tell impressive details of the ecosystems and landscapes visited. He is also a local guide and will be accompanied by another local guide, a member of the rural tourism association, who is in-depth knowledge of the territory.
This tour has a maximum capacity of 7 people, so we respect the carrying capacity of the environment, being able to enjoy the silence, tranquility and true stillness of the mountain.
If we are lucky and have good energy we will be able to spot the Andean bear in the middle of our route or see footprints and marks that will allow us to learn more about its ecology.
Available options
Mazafonte Trek - Group
Transportation from Bogota to Choachi: Pick up point will be at Cl. 6 #15-28, Bogotá at 6:50am. Public service van type vehicle<br/>Duration: 9 hours: 5- 6 hours inside the mountain
1 hour from Bogota to choachi
45 min from Choachi to the start point of the trek<br/>4x4 vehicle and vans type: Vans or bus from Bogota to Choachi
Vehicle4x4 from Choachi to the start point of the trek<br/>Accident insurance<br/>Pickup included
Private Mazafonte Trek
Duration: 6 hours: This experience lasts 6 hours inside the mountain with an additional 1 hour in a 4x4 vehicle from Choachi.<br/>Mazafonte - hard or medium: It is possible to choose the end point of the route according to your level of physical condition.
Medium - Laguna Paramillo
Hard - Alto del Rayo<br/>4x4 from Choachi: If you want to include transportation from Bogota, we can include it and send you all the pick-up information.
What's included
Accident insurance
Transportation from Bogota (van type transportation accompanied by the guide
Environmental interpretation
4x4 choachi transportation to the beginning of the trail (round trip)
Professional guide Biology or geology
Digital guide to Mazafonte birds
Entrance to the nature reserve
Local peasant guide (required for reservation)
What's not included
Each hiker must bring their mountain lunch. If you want to include lunch, you must arrange it with the guide, as an additional value of $30,000cop
It is possible to rent a trekking pole for $7,000 with the guide.
It is possible to rent the pair of boots for 6,000$cop. You must give the guide the size of your feet to see if they are available in the nature reserve.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
It is not recommended for travelers with knee surgeries that have not been fully recovered.
Meeting point
If you have private transportation and want to get around alone, we will meet at 8:00am in the central park of Choachi, in front of the Church and the Punto Caliente cafeteria.
If you have your own vehicle, you can park in the parking lots around the central park.
About Bogotá
Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes Mountains. Known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and bustling urban life, it offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern sophistication. The city's high altitude and pleasant spring-like climate make it an appealing destination year-round.
Top Attractions
La Candelaria
La Candelaria is Bogotá's historic center, known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's home to museums, churches, and colorful houses.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, museum entry fees vary
Museo del Oro
The Gold Museum is one of the most important museums in Colombia, housing an extensive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and offering insights into the region's indigenous cultures.
Museum
1-2 hours
COP 4,000 ($1 USD)
Montserrate
Montserrate is a mountain overlooking Bogotá, offering panoramic views of the city. Visitors can reach the summit by funicular, cable car, or hiking trail.
Nature
Half day
Funicular: COP 16,000 ($4 USD), Cable car: COP 18,000 ($4.50 USD)
Zona G
Zona G is Bogotá's upscale dining and shopping district, known for its high-end restaurants, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.
Cultural
Few hours
Varies by establishment
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, and arepa. A must-try for meat lovers.
Lunch
Not vegetarian or vegan
Ajiaco
A creamy chicken and potato soup with corn, capers, and guascas herb. A comforting and traditional dish.
Lunch
Can be made vegetarian with tofu
Arepa
A versatile cornmeal flatbread that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Bogotá Brewing Company Craft Beer
Bogotá has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering a variety of unique and flavorful beers.
Drink
Contains gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in Chingaza National Park
Paragliding in Zipaquirá
Spa day in Chapinero
Coffee tasting in La Candelaria
Visiting museums in La Candelaria
Attending a concert at Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo
Boat tour on Lake Guatavita
Skiing in Nevado del Ruiz (seasonal)
Best Time to Visit
December to February, June to August
These months offer the best weather with lower rainfall and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F)
54°F to 70°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Bogotá has made significant improvements in safety in recent years, but it's still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in certain areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less touristy areas
- • Use reputable transportation services, such as app-based taxis or official tour operators
- • Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- El Dorado International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transportes de Bogotá
Getting around
Public transport
TransMilenio is Bogotá's primary public transport system, consisting of a network of bus rapid transit (BRT) lines and feeder buses. It is efficient but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
La Candelaria
Chapinero
Usaquén
Day trips
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
48 km (30 miles) from Bogotá • Half day
The Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral is an underground Roman Catholic church built within the tunnels of a salt mine. It's a unique and awe-inspiring attraction that offers a glimpse into Colombia's mining history.
Villa de Leyva
150 km (93 miles) from Bogotá • Full day
Villa de Leyva is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic plazas. It's a popular day trip destination for those looking to explore Colombia's colonial past.
Lake Guatavita
50 km (31 miles) from Bogotá • Half day
Lake Guatavita is a scenic lake known for its association with the legend of El Dorado. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, learn about its history, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Festivals
Bogotá International Book Fair • April
Bogotá Festival of Theater • June
Pro tips
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Visit the Museo del Oro early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions
- Try the local street food, such as empanadas, arepas, and chorizos, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Take a day trip to the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral or Lake Guatavita for a unique and unforgettable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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