Background

Water Well of Hunzahua (Donato): A Muisca Legacy

Discover the Water Well of Hunzahua in Tunja: a monument to Muisca heritage, legends, and the stories of ancient Colombia.

4.5

The Water Well of Hunzahua, also known as Pozo de Donato, is an archeological site in Tunja, Colombia, significant to the Muisca people. It's linked to the legend of Hunzahúa, the first leader of Hunza, and is a serene spot for reflection on indigenous history.

A brief summary to Water well Hunzahua (Donato)

  • Av. Central del norte, UPTC, 15002,, Tunja, Boyaca, CO
  • Monday 7 am-10:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-10:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-10:30 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-10:30 pm
  • Friday 7 am-10:30 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-10:30 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Engage with local guides to uncover the fascinating stories behind the well.
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the well to enjoy the surrounding lush landscapes.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the central square of Tunja (Plaza de Bolívar), walk north on Calle 19 until you reach Avenida Central del Norte. Turn left onto Avenida Central del Norte. Continue walking straight for about 1.5 km. You will pass by the UPTC (Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia) on your left. The Water Well of Hunzahua (Donato) is located near the university, on your right. Look for the monument signs that indicate its presence.

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in Tunja, take a local bus (minibus) that goes along Avenida Central del Norte. Ask the driver to drop you off near the UPTC (Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia). From there, walk towards the university campus, and you'll find the Water Well of Hunzahua (Donato). Public transport cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately 2,100 COP.

  • Taxi

    From any point in Tunja, you can take a taxi to the Water Well of Hunzahua (Donato), located on Avenida Central del Norte, near the UPTC. Most taxi drivers will know the location. Taxi fare: The starting price is about 4,200 COP, and the fare for a short trip within the city should not cost more than 4,000 COP.

Unlock the Best of Water well Hunzahua (Donato)

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Water well Hunzahua (Donato)

The Water Well of Hunzahua, or Pozo de Donato, is more than just a well; it's a window into the rich history and cultural legacy of Tunja and the Muisca people who once thrived here. Located on the campus of the Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia (UPTC), this site was once called Hunza, the capital of the northern Muisca territories. The well is named after Hunzahúa, the first zaque (ruler) of Hunza. Legend has it that Hunzahúa had a forbidden love affair with his sister, Noncetá. When their mother discovered their incestuous relationship, she was enraged and accidentally broke a pot of chicha (corn beer), which then formed the well. Centuries later, Quemuenchatocha, another Muisca leader, is said to have hidden his treasures in the well to protect them from the Spanish conquistadors. The Spanish conquistador Jerónimo Donato de Rojas later attempted to drain the well in search of these treasures, but found only mud. Today, there is a saying in Tunja that when someone loses something, especially money, “It fell into Donato’s well”. Visitors can explore the well and the surrounding park, which features walking paths, Muisca-themed art, and explanations of Muisca life, laws, and legends. The site offers a tranquil atmosphere for appreciating the blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Popular Experiences near Water well Hunzahua (Donato)

Popular Hotels near Water well Hunzahua (Donato)

Select Currency