Sogamoso and it's surrounding area is a gorgeous mix of farmland, mountains, Colombia's largest and highest natural lake (Lago de Tota... known as the sea of the mountains) and magnificent little towns that are little visited by the average backpacker.
Sogamoso stands at an altitude of 2570 metres so be sure to bring a jumper for the evenings, and is located a little over 1 hour east of Tunja. The name Sogamoso means 'Land of Sun' and was originally inhabited by the Muiska tribe who named the area 'Xua Mox'. The area was deemed a 'sacred' place due to the higher luminosity and power of the sun. In order to harness this power the indigenous people built the 'Temple of the Sun', which became an important place for tribes to visit for peace and worship. This high luminosity has since been proven by scientists.
Although Sogamoso only has a few places of interest for the visitor, it's close proximity to the stunning surrounding towns and diverse landscape makes it a great base to start exploring and can keep you here for days.
Places of interest in the town include the Temple of the Sun which is an impressive structure and important archeological site for the indigenous people. Sections of the temple have recently been restored. A walk up to Cathedral Santa Barbara on top of the hill will give you impressive views over the city. Another fascinating stop is the local market, which is busiest on Tuesdays and Fridays and is a perfect place to sample some of Colombia's fantastic tropical fruits.
Km 2 via Aquitania
Tel: 8 770 4222
Kms 2 via Aquitania
Tel: 7 71 59 98
Email: caminantesyashuwa@yahoo.com
Tel: 312 521 72 90
Marques de Puntalarga Winery: This winery is South America´s highest commercial winery at an altitude of approximately 2600m. Set up in 1982 a top Puntalarga Hill, it specialises in Reislings and Pinot Noir having won awards for it´s Reisling. Sample and purchase some interesting Colombian wines only a short bus ride from Sogamoso on the way to Nobsa.
Tel: 8022664/3168983532
Email: marquesdepuntalarga1@yahoo.es
The lake also boasts a beautiful white sand beach 'Playa Blanca', located between Aquitania and Tota. There is a restaurant and BBQs here and remember to check returning bus times.
Thermal Pools- Located in Iza, these thermal pools and sauna offer an opportunity to relax and unwind. Choose between multiple pools for varying temperatures. Entry cost is $9500 for the day and less if you are staying at Finca San Pedro. You will need to take a short taxi from Iza to reach the pools.
Other Towns- An easy bus ride from Sogamoso are numerous colonial towns well worth exploring. Visit the white washed Tibasosa with it's beautiful plaza and home of the fruit 'Feijoa', which cafes serve in juice, sweets, ice cream and alcohol. Beautiful Mongui is located high amongst mountains. The catedral and adjoining monestry here is magnificent. Obviously there is Iza with its thermal pools and famous sweets, especially popular on a Sunday afternoon around the central plaza. You can also find great bread at Firavitoba, and a wide sample of ‘ruanas’ (traditional ‘poncho’) and many wool handicrafts at Nobsa.
