2-Day Private Tour to the Tatacoa Desert From Bogotá

Nestled in the heart of Colombia’s arid landscape, the Tatacoa Desert beckons adventurous travelers seeking an extraordinary escape from the bustling city of Bogotá. This private 2-day tour promises a captivating exploration of the desert’s striking red and gray rock formations, where visitors can enjoy the region’s unique wildlife and starry night sky. As they embark on this journey, they’ll discover the perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences, from indulging in local cuisine to embarking on a refreshing boat tour along the Magdalena River. With the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers a truly unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Colombia’s mesmerizing Tatacoa Desert.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 2 Day Tours In Bogota.

Key Points

• This 2-day private tour takes you from Bogotá to explore the Tatacoa Desert, known for its unique rock formations and diverse wildlife.
• The tour includes a stop in Neiva to experience the local cuisine, such as suckling pig, Tolimese tamales, and tropical fruit juices.
• Highlights of the tour include a visit to an astronomical observatory, a boat tour on the Magdalena River, and a swim in a natural pool within the desert.
• With a 4.0 out of 5-star rating based on 8 reviews, the tour provides a mix of positive and negative feedback, mainly regarding the knowledgeable guide and the long travel time.
• The tour is priced at $496.00, varying by group size, and includes a professional guide, private air-conditioned vehicle, and admission to attractions, but excludes food and beverages.

Tour Overview

The 2-Day Private Tour to Tatacoa Desert from Bogotá offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the second largest arid zone in Colombia, with a duration of 19 hours and pickup/drop-off at Bogotá accommodations.

With a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars based on 8 reviews, the tour is priced starting from $496.00, with the final cost varying by group size.

Guests can expect a personalized experience led by a professional guide, transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, and admission to all attractions.

While food and beverages aren’t included, the itinerary promises a memorable journey through the unique geological formations and diverse wildlife of the Tatacoa Desert.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day itinerary provides a comprehensive exploration of the Tatacoa Desert, with a mix of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and astronomical observations.

On the first day, travelers will depart Bogotá at 6 AM and journey to the desert, stopping in Neiva to sample local cuisine. Upon reaching Villavieja, the gateway to the Tatacoa Desert, they’ll explore the arid landscape, home to unique red and gray rock formations and diverse wildlife. After exploring the desert, they’ll visit an astronomical observatory to learn about the night sky.

The second day includes a boat tour on the Magdalena River and more time to swim in the desert’s natural pools and discover its captivating features.

• Explore the second-largest arid zone in Colombia

• Discover the distinct red and gray rock formations

• Spot native wildlife like wildcats, eagles, and snakes

• Visit an astronomical observatory to learn about the night sky

• Swim in a natural pool surrounded by the desert landscape

Day 1: Exploring Tatacoa

After an early morning pickup from their Bogotá accommodations, travelers embark on the 7-hour journey to the Tatacoa Desert, traversing the scenic Tolima region along the way.

The first stop is in the city of Neiva, where they’ll have the chance to experience the local cuisine, including the popular suckling pig and Tolimese tamales.

Continuing on, they’ll arrive at the entrance to the Tatacoa Desert, a vast and striking arid zone known for its distinctive red and gray rocks.

As they explore this unique landscape, they’ll keep an eye out for the native wildlife, like birds, snakes, and even the elusive ocelot.

The day culminates with a visit to the local astronomical observatory to learn about the wonders of the night sky.

Neiva: Local Cuisine

On their way to the Tatacoa Desert, travelers make a stop in Neiva, where they get to savor the local culinary delights. In this vibrant city, the tour includes a sampling of regional specialties, such as:

• Succulent suckling pig, a local favorite known for its crispy skin and juicy meat

• Tolimese tamales, a traditional corn-based dish stuffed with pork, rice, and vegetables

• Refreshing fruit juices, made from the abundance of tropical fruits grown in the region

• Hearty stews, featuring locally-sourced ingredients like plantains, potatoes, and cured meats

• Freshly baked breads, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauces of the main dishes

This culinary exploration provides a delightful introduction to the rich gastronomic heritage of the Tolima region before the journey continues into the captivating Tatacoa Desert.

Villavieja: Gateway to Tatacoa

From Neiva, the tour continues its journey into the heart of the Tatacoa Desert, entering through the quaint town of Villavieja. This charming gateway serves as the primary access point to the arid landscape. As the group approaches, they’ll be greeted by the stunning contrast of the rusty-red hues of the desert against the lush greenery of the surrounding hills.

Villavieja Highlights
Historic Architecture
Local Artisan Shops
Magdalena River Views

Villavieja’s rich cultural heritage and strategic location make it an integral part of the Tatacoa Desert experience. From here, the tour delves deeper into the unique geological wonders that define this captivating region of Colombia.

Day 2: Magdalena River and Tatacoa

The second day starts with an 8:00 am breakfast at the hotel, followed by a boat tour on the Magdalena River that lasts approximately one hour.

After the river tour, the group returns to the Tatacoa Desert for further exploration, spending around 3 hours discovering its unique landscape.

To cap off the day, they’ll have the chance to swim in a natural pool surrounded by the desert’s captivating scenery for 45 minutes.

The highlights of this second day include:

• Enjoying a relaxing boat ride on the Magdalena River

• Delving deeper into the enigmatic Tatacoa Desert

• Cooling off in a serene natural pool within the desert

• Witnessing the stunning contrasts of the desert environment

• Completing the immersive 2-day exploration of this captivating region.

Natural Pool in the Desert

One of the highlights of the second day is the opportunity to swim in a natural pool nestled within the captivating desert landscape of the Tatacoa. This 45-minute swimming experience allows visitors to cool off and fully enjoy the striking juxtaposition of the arid desert and the tranquil oasis.

Feature	Description
Location	Situated within the Tatacoa Desert
Surroundings	Surrounded by the distinct red and gray rocks that characterize the desert
Water Source	Fed by a natural spring, providing a refreshing respite from the heat

The natural pool not only offers a chance to relax and rejuvenate, but also provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of the Tatacoa Desert.

Reviews and Feedback

Reviewers offer a mixed assessment of the 2-day private tour to the Tatacoa Desert, with some highlighting the knowledgeable guides, while others expressing disappointment with the guide’s attitude on occasion. Despite these mixed experiences, the overall feedback suggests that the tour delivers on its promise of showcasing the desert’s unique natural beauty and providing guests with a memorable experience.

The desert’s striking red and gray rocks, along with the diverse wildlife, are consistently praised by reviewers. The boat tour on the Magdalena River and the opportunity to swim in the natural pool are also noted as highlights of the tour.

Some reviewers appreciate the personalized attention from the guides, while others feel the guides could be more engaging and attentive. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is appreciated, though the long travel time to reach the desert is mentioned by some.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Tatacoa Desert?

The best time to visit the Tatacoa Desert is during the dry season from December to March. Temperatures are mild, and visitors can enjoy the unique desert landscapes and wildlife without the challenges of wet weather.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to fit one’s preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in adjusting the schedule and activities to cater to the specific interests and needs of the travelers.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond 2 Days?

Yes, the tour operator offers the flexibility to extend the tour beyond the standard 2 days. Travelers can customize the itinerary and duration to suit their preferences, though additional costs may apply for extended stays or additional activities.

What Should I Pack for the Desert Climate and Activities?

The desert climate requires lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for hiking. Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and fueled during the day’s activities in the Tatacoa Desert.

Are There Any Additional Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Visitors should be aware of the extreme desert temperatures, uneven terrain, and presence of venomous wildlife. Staying hydrated, wearing protective clothing, and exercising caution when exploring are essential safety precautions for this arid environment.

Recap

The 2-day private tour to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogotá offers a captivating adventure exploring stunning desert landscapes and unique wildlife.

Guests can enjoy the region’s natural beauty, indulge in local cuisine, stargaze at an observatory, and enjoy a refreshing boat tour and swim in a natural pool.

This immersive experience provides an unforgettable insight into the enchanting Tatacoa Desert.