Lago de Tota Guide
Lago de Tota: Colombia's Highest Lake Beckons Guide
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lago de Tota, the largest lake in Colombia and the second highest navigable lake in South America. Located near Iza, this stunning body of water offers a diverse range of activities and landscapes, from sandy beaches to picturesque villages, making it a must-see destination for any traveler to the Boyacá region. Lago de Tota holds significant historical and cultural importance. Before the arrival of the Spanish, the lake was a sacred site for the Muisca indigenous people, who believed it was the birthplace of the sun. They performed rituals and ceremonies on its shores, leaving behind archaeological evidence that continues to be studied today. The lake's name, "Tota," comes from the Muisca language. Lago de Tota offers a plethora of activities for visitors. You can relax on the sandy beaches of Playa Blanca, take a boat tour of the lake, go windsurfing or kitesurfing, or explore the charming villages that dot its shores, such as Aquitania and Iza. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, as the lake is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species. The area around Lago de Tota is known for its *arepas boyacenses*, thick corn cakes often filled with cheese or other savory ingredients. You can find them at local restaurants and street vendors around the lake. Also, try the *trucha arco iris* (rainbow trout), a local specialty.
Transportation
Several buses depart daily from Sogamoso to Aquitania, a town on the shores of Lago de Tota. From Aquitania, you can take local transportation (bus or taxi) to other points around the lake, such as Playa Blanca or Iza. You can catch a bus from Iza to Sogamoso, and then another bus to Aquitania.