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Simacota to El Cocuy

Updated: March 25, 2024 11:45 AM
El Cocuy

Simacota to El Cocuy - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Language

The official language of Colombia is Spanish. However, in the region of Santander where Simacota and El Cocuy are located, you will also find people who speak Quechua.

Currency

The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels.

Distance

The distance between Simacota and El Cocuy is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles). The journey typically takes around 6 hours by car.

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Simacota to El Cocuy:

  • By car: This is the most convenient way to travel between the two towns. You can rent a car or hire a driver.
  • By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Simacota and El Cocuy. The journey takes around 6 hours.
  • By plane: The nearest airport to El Cocuy is the Gustavo Vargas Guerrero Airport (EOH) in Ocana. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to El Cocuy.

Expenses

The cost of traveling between Simacota and El Cocuy will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Here are some approximate costs:

  • By car: The cost of renting a car will vary depending on the type of car you choose. You can expect to pay around $30-$50 per day.
  • By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Simacota to El Cocuy is around $10-$15.
  • By plane: The cost of a plane ticket from Ocana to El Cocuy is around $50-$100.

Best time to go

The best time to visit El Cocuy is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During this time, the weather is generally clear and dry, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the region.

What to Eat

Simacota and El Cocuy are known for their delicious cuisine. Here are some of the local dishes you should try:

  • Mute: A traditional Colombian soup made with corn, potatoes, and meat.
  • Arepas: Cornmeal patties that are grilled or fried.
  • Chicharrón: Fried pork skin.
  • Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Buñuelos: Fried dough balls that are often served with cheese or honey.

Where to Go

In addition to the stunning scenery, Simacota and El Cocuy offer a variety of attractions, including:

  • El Cocuy National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
  • The Cocuy Glacier: The largest glacier in Colombia.
  • The Guican Caves: A series of caves that are home to a variety of bats and other animals.
  • The Chicamocha Canyon: The second largest canyon in the world.
  • The Santander Aqueduct: An impressive engineering feat that supplies water to the region.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Simacota to El Cocuy:

  • Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia? Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Colombia for up to 90 days. However, you should check with your local embassy or consulate to be sure.
  • What are the road conditions like between Simacota and El Cocuy? The road conditions between Simacota and El Cocuy are generally good. However, there may be some sections of road that are unpaved or in poor condition.
  • Is it safe to travel between Simacota and El Cocuy? Yes, it is generally safe to travel between Simacota and El Cocuy. However, as with any travel, you should take precautions to protect yourself from crime.
  • What is the best way to get around El Cocuy? The best way to get around El Cocuy is by foot or by horse. You can also rent a car or hire a driver.
  • What are the prices like in El Cocuy? The prices in El Cocuy are generally reasonable. You can expect to pay around $10-$15 per night for a hotel room and $5-$10 for a meal.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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