158 OUTSIDE OF BOGOTÁ
Parque Natural Chicaque is very close to Bogotá, more precisely twenty minutes
from South Bogotá. If you have a higher budget a taxi is recommended as the
quickest and easiest way. You need to negotiate with a taxi driver to get a good
rate. A taxi ride to the park takes an hour or so and it makes the trip a lot easier.
To get to the park by bus is a challenge, but seeing the park is worth the hassle.
From La Candelaria
- You need to get to the Terminal de Sur. You can get there from Jimenez
and 10 on the Transmilenio or you can pay 12,000 COP for a taxi. - From the Terminal de Sur take a micro-bus to Soacha. Make sure you
wait for a bus with an open seat, there are many buses that pass by
every few minutes. - Option One - In Soacha you need to ask for directions in the street
where you can find a bus that passes by Chicaque Parque Natural.
Option Two - You can call the park office and someone will pick you up
in Soacha. - Get off at the park entrance. Walk 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) to the park.
This is a beautiful hike down a country road. If you're lucky and brave
someone may stop and offer you a ride.
The whole trip may take 2 to 3 hours depending on your personal speed and
navigational ability. To return to Bogotá you need to reverse the directions and
make your way back to La Candelaria.
The main activity in the park is hiking. Chicaque Parque is recommended for
those who love to hike and just spend time in the beautiful outdoor settings.
Chicaque Parque Natural, Bogotá office - Transversal 26 B No. 41 - 51, (031- 368-
3118). The park staff is very helpful when you call them, but they only speak
Spanish. (www.chicaque.com).