Lake Otún: A Pristine Andean Jewel
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Otún in Risaralda, Colombia: a high-altitude paradise within Los Nevados National Park.
Lake Otún, or Laguna del Otún, is a captivating destination within Colombia's Los Nevados National Natural Park. Situated in the department of Risaralda, this lake lies at an impressive altitude of 3,950 meters (approximately 12,960 feet) above sea level. Its location within the protected national park ensures the preservation of its pristine environment. Formed by glacial and volcanic activity, Lake Otún is primarily fed by the meltwaters of the Nevado Santa Isabel. The lake covers an area of roughly 1.5 square kilometers and serves as the source of the Otún River, a crucial water supply for the cities of Pereira and Dosquebradas. The lake holds ecological significance as a Ramsar Convention wetland, recognized internationally for its importance. Historically, Lake Otún held a sacred place in the culture of the Quimbaya people. Today, it attracts visitors with its stunning landscapes and opportunities for hiking and experiencing the unique páramo ecosystem. This high-altitude environment is characterized by distinctive flora, including the iconic frailejones, which huddle together to withstand the cold. Lake Otún is also a haven for birdwatchers, serving as a breeding ground for threatened and endangered species such as the Colombian torrent duck, Andean teal and Andean snipe. The lake's waters are stocked with rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for recreational fishing.
Local tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before undertaking strenuous activities around Lake Otún to avoid altitude sickness.
- Bring waterproof gear and warm layers, as the weather in the high-altitude páramo can change rapidly.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for navigating the trails around the lake.
- Book transportation in advance, as public transport options to Lake Otún are limited.
- Respect the delicate páramo ecosystem by staying on marked trails and avoiding disturbing the flora and fauna.
A brief summary to Lake Otún
- Risaralda, CO
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Pereira, take a bus to Santa Rosa de Cabal (approx. $2-3 COP). From there, hire a taxi to Lake Otún. The taxi ride is about 2 hours and can cost between $40-50 COP. Alternatively, buses also run from Pereira to Quinchía (approx. 10,000 COP), where you can catch a local jeep ('chiva') to Lake Otún for about 5,000 COP per person. Be prepared for a bumpy ride.
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Car
From Pereira, head north on Autopista del Café (Route 29) towards Manizales. After about 25km, exit towards Quinchía and continue for 15km. Follow signs to Lake Otún, about 12km from Quinchía on secondary roads. Be aware of narrow, winding roads. Parking is available near the lake, but can be limited. Vehicle entrance fee to the park is around $5,500 COP.
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Tour
Several tour operators in Pereira offer day trips to Lake Otún, typically including transportation in a 4x4 vehicle, meals, a local guide, and entrance fees to the park. These tours often depart from Pereira around 4:00 AM and return around 5:00 PM. Prices vary depending on the operator and inclusions.
