Pozos Azules: Azure Pools of Villa de Leyva
Discover the stunningly colorful artificial lagoons of Pozos Azules near Villa de Leyva, a surreal desert oasis in Colombia.
Pozos Azules, a captivating set of artificial lagoons, lies a short distance from the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva, Colombia. Set against the backdrop of an arid desert landscape, these pools offer a striking contrast with their vibrant and unusual colors. The distinct hues of the Pozos Azules, ranging from greenish-blue to intense reddish-orange, are attributed to the presence of various minerals such as selenium and sulfur in the soil. Rainwater runoff interacts with these minerals, creating the unique coloration that has developed over approximately five years in each pool. There are currently three sectors of blue wells. Swimming is not allowed in the pools. Located on a 60-hectare private property, visitors can explore the area on foot or horseback. The best time to visit is on a clear, sunny day, as the colors are most vibrant under these conditions. Many visitors bring refreshments to enjoy while taking in the views.
Local tips
- Visit on a clear, sunny day to witness the most vibrant colors in the pools.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the desert terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, as there may not be many vendors nearby.
A brief summary to Pozos Azules
- Villa de Leyva, Boyaca, CO
- +573125493486
Getting There
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Taxi
From Villa de Leyva's main square, take a taxi towards the Villa de Leyva - Santa Sofía highway. The ride is approximately 7 minutes to the entrance of the Pozos Azules. Taxis are readily available around the main square. Expect to pay around 8,000-12,000 COP for the trip.
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Walking
From Villa de Leyva's main square, walk along the Villa de Leyva - Santa Sofía highway. After approximately 2.5 kilometers (about 30-40 minutes), look for a detour at kilometer 2 onto the Sopotá path. The walk to the entrance of the artificial wells is relatively straightforward. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
