Tequendama Falls: A Majestic Cascade with a Haunted Past

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Experience the breathtaking Tequendama Falls near Bogotá, a site of natural beauty, indigenous legend, and a haunting past.

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Tequendama Falls

Tequendama Falls, a stunning 433-foot waterfall near Bogotá, Colombia, has captivated visitors for centuries. Steeped in indigenous legend and haunted tales, the falls offer breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's rich history, though the surrounding river faces severe pollution challenges.

A brief summary to Tequendama Falls

Soacha, Cundinamarca, CO
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Bring a light jacket, as the area can be misty and cool.
Check the local weather forecast before your visit to ensure a clear view of the falls.
The museum is only open on weekends and holidays.

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Tequendama Falls from Bogotá, begin by taking the Transmilenio bus to San Mateo station. From La Candelaria, the best station to start from is Las Nieves. The journey to San Mateo takes approximately 1 hour. From San Mateo, take a local bus towards 'Charquito - Salto de Tequendama'. The bus ride takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately 7,000-8,000 COP. Alternatively, take a bus from Terminal Salitre to Estación El Salto. This direct bus departs four times a day and costs about $3 USD.
Taxi

A taxi from Bogotá to Tequendama Falls takes approximately 36 minutes and costs between $11 and $14 USD. Taxis are readily available throughout Bogotá. You can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Didi. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Driving

To drive to Tequendama Falls from Bogotá, take the Autopista Sur and follow the road towards Soacha. Then, turn towards the village of El Charquito. The drive is approximately 30 kilometers and takes about 50 minutes. Note that there is a toll on this route, costing 11,100 COP. Parking is available near the entrance.

Discover more about Tequendama Falls

Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Bogotá in Soacha, Cundinamarca, Tequendama Falls (Salto del Tequendama) is a prominent natural landmark with a height of 132 meters (433 feet). The falls have been a significant point of reference in Colombian geography since pre-Columbian times. According to Muisca legend, the falls were created by Bochica, a god who broke the rocks with his staff to drain the waters flooding the Bogotá savanna. The name 'Tequendama' translates to 'he who precipitated downward' in the Chibcha language. Another legend tells of Muisca people leaping from the falls to escape Spanish conquistadors, transforming into eagles mid-air to fly to freedom. In the 20th century, the Tequendama Falls became a popular tourist destination. The Hotel del Salto, built in 1928, offered luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the falls. However, increasing pollution of the Bogotá River led to the hotel's abandonment in the early 1990s. Today, the former hotel has been transformed into the Salto de Tequendama House Museum, dedicated to raising awareness about the river's pollution and promoting environmental recovery. Visitors can explore exhibits about the history, culture, and natural environment of the Tequendama Falls. Despite the pollution, the falls remain a captivating sight, surrounded by lush vegetation typical of the Andean region.