Lake Tota, located in the department of Boyacá, stands as a dream destination for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. With an area of 55 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 60 meters, this body of water is the largest in the country.
Surrounded by farmland and located approximately four hours from the Colombian capital (Bogotá) Lago de Tota is a refuge for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the jurisdiction of the municipalities of Cuítiva, Tota and Aquitania, and near towns such as Sogamoso, Duitama and Tunjathis oasis also has a range of activities for all visitors.
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Located 24 kilometers from the city of Sogamoso and at an altitude of 3,015 meters above sea level, the lagoon offers an environment of tranquility and serenity. Its crystal-clear waters are home to a wide variety of species, among which the rainbow trout stands out, known for its pink meat.
One of the most pleasant surprises for those who explore the shores of Lake Tota is the presence of a white sand beach and turquoise waters, which evoke the paradisiacal landscapes of the Caribbean. Despite the low temperatures, some intrepid travelers do not hesitate to immerse themselves in the icy waters.
This body of water is recognized as an enchanted enclave, framed by mountains and dense forests, home to clear waters and an extraordinary diversity of animal and plant life. Likewise, the lagoon represents a perfect place for fishing, camping and a variety of additional sports.
Tota is presented as an ideal destination for practicing outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, kayaking, sailing and diving. In the vicinity of the lake, you can find various accommodations that offer a wide range of servicesincluding organizing bird watching excursions, guided walks and more.
For those who wish to visit Lake Tota from Bogotá, the most practical option is to go to the northern terminal of the city, from where buses leave for Sogamoso.
The cost of the ticket each way is around 40,000 Colombian pesos, and once in Sogamoso, travelers can take another bus that takes them to Cuitiva, the closest town to the lake. Along the way, they also have the opportunity to stop at Playa Blanca, where they can enjoy the views.
In ancient times, when aridity dominated the region, Lake Tota was nothing more than a vast desolate hollow. But the intervention of Bochica, a prophet and wise man revered by the Muiscas, changed the destiny of this arid place forever.
Guided by Bochica, the inhabitants of the town learned the art of ceramics and weaving, along with respect and communication with the gods. Thus a priest arose, designated as a mediator between the gods and the people, who received a green stone of supreme purity as a symbol of his authority.
However, The desolation persisted, as an evil god and a black snake devastated the region, bringing drought, famine and disease. Faced with this calamity, the priest Monetá devoted himself to penance and prayer, seeking divine favor for his people.
Calling the population to a pilgrimage to the top of a nearby rock, Monetá led a tribute to Bachué, goddess of waters and fertility. Amid dances and offerings, the black snake was defeated by a brave dancer, whose final gesture released a golden disc that killed the beast and triggered the providential revelation.
With the stone torn from his chest, Monetá threw it on the corpse of the snake, from where the blue-green waters gushed out and filled the Tota Lagoon, putting an end to hunger and thirst in the region.
Today, the islands that emerge in the lagoon are petrified reminders of that legendary event.
