tatacoa desert day trip

Tatacoa Desert: Colombia’s Best Kept Secret

The Tatacoa Desert is a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination in Colombia with otherworldly sand formations in many shades of red and grey. This desert is actually a dry tropical forest where wind and rain created odd shapes in the soil. That soil is filled with minerals that give the many different colors (like the Rainbow Mountain in Peru ). Hike along stunning trails and through labyrinths where you will f ind many kinds of cactus trees, goats, and birds. 

5 Things to do in Tatacoa Desert

The Tatacoa Desert consists of two parts, the red and grey desert, which can both be explored within a day. It is also one of the warmest places in Colombia, with a 35-degree average temperature. However, there is heavy rainfall in the area throughout April and May, resulting in a greener desert. For this reason, it is technically not a desert. 

Also see: The Ultimate 3-week Colombia Itinerary (Travel Guide)

1. Red Desert in Tatacoa

The Red Desert of Tatacoa is the most famous part (also known as Cuzco), with several viewpoints along the road overlooking the unreal scenery. The red colors come from iron giving the soil its ocher, rust, and copper colors. Some great viewpoints are Mirador El Cuzco and Mirador Laberinto .

Here are all your hotel options in Tatacoa.

After enjoying the viewpoints, walk down into the valley and follow the trail through the spectacular labyrinth of wavey soil formations. It’s like pure art created by mother nature. The trail is a well-marked loop ( starting here ) where you will see many cactus plants (with fruits!), colorful birds, scorpions, curious goats, and sometimes even snakes. After all, ‘Tatacoa’ is Spanish for ‘rattlesnake’. The trail takes about 1.5 hours to complete and is mostly flat.

Tip: Bring a lot of drinking water and some snacks because there’s almost no option to buy this in Tatacoa Desert.

We recommend visiting the trail before noon or sunset when temperatures are more pleasant. Also, most animals are only active in the mornings, so if you like to spot some interesting birds, mornings are best.

At the entrance and exit of the trail, there is a restaurant selling fresh sugarcane juice. This is a perfect refreshment for cooling off after walking through the heat of the Tatacoa Desert. Here, you’ll also find the perfect viewpoint to see the entire Red Desert.

Tip: Please note that climbing the formations is forbidden because it’s extremely easy for the formations to break or be damaged. Remember, it’s not rock but soft soil.

2. Grey Desert

The Grey Desert of Tatacoa is about a 30-minute drive from the Red Desert. The landscape in this part of the desert feels even more surreal; it is nicknamed ‘The Valley of Ghosts’ because of its unique shapes. You can also follow a short trail with amazing, moon-like scenery. To us, this place felt like stunning Cappadocia in Turkey .

Both the grey and red desert of Tatacoa are a must-visit. We recommend visiting the Grey Desert at sunset as the colors are absolutely spectacular at this time.

3. The Xilópalos Trail (Valle De Los Xilópalos)

Less picturesque but just as impressive is the Xilópalos Trail. Here you can see some unique views of the desert before passing through three narrow canyons named El Tiempo, La Señorita, and La Culebra. Worm your way among the canyons that were carved out by rain drainage over millions of years. The canyons are no deeper than three meters.

Below is a pink chili-shaped fruit that comes from the cactus and is very tasty!

Also visit the incredible Tayrona National Park in Colombia .

Halfway through the trail, we visited a local goat farm where we had a refreshment (much needed during the heat of the day!).

The ​​Xilópalos Trail is still very unknown, so you might hike the entire way without seeing any other tourists. The trail is also the furthest away from the Red Desert (40 minutes). 

4. Piscina Mineral (Tatacoa Swimming pool)

Piscina Mineral is an artificial swimming pool in the middle of the desert where locals and travelers come to cool down. The pool takes water from one of the only water reserves of the Tatacoa Desert, which is seen as a bad thing by many local people.

In our opinion, the pool didn’t look inviting; it was dirty, so we don’t recommend visiting the pool, particularly as it’s not good for the desert itself.

5. Stargazing in Tatacoa Desert

Because of its remote location and undiscovered nature, there is barely any light pollution in the Tatacoa Desert. This makes it one of the best places in South America to go stargazing. Visit the observation tower ( here ) for an explanation and a look through one of six enormous telescopes. When the conditions are perfect, you should be able to see the galaxy with the naked eye. Full moon and clouds can all make it extremely difficult to see the stars. 

The entrance fee to the observation tower + tour is 10.000 COP.

Where to Stay in the Tatacoa Desert

There are two areas where you can spend the night: the Tatacoa Desert or Villavieja (a small town close to the desert). We recommend spending at least one night, ideally two, in Tatacoa because it’s a time-consuming destination to reach. 

Hotels in Tatacoa 😴

Accommodation in Tatacoa

In the Tatacoa Desert, there are lodge-style hotels as well as fancy glamping experiences. We’ve also seen travelers wild camp in a tent in the desert, but we can’t provide any information about this.

Villavieja has more accommodation options. These are generally cheaper, and some have a small pool for you to cool down ( we stayed at Star Eco Hotel ). It is a sleepy but lovely town with a few restaurants and supermarkets where you can get water for an affordable price. The only downside is that it is about 10 minutes driving with a tuk-tuk or a 1h+ walk to the Red Desert. ( Click here to see all accommodations in Villavieja )

Hotels in Tatacoa Desert 😴

How to Get Around the Tatacoa Desert

Explore the Tatacoa Desert by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or walking. If you spend a night inside the Tatacoa Desert, you can opt to walk. However, we recommend renting a bike or tuk-tuk + guide to move around much faster. You can rent bikes in Villavieja or book a biking tour online .

Guided tuk-tuk trips can be booked from the main square in Villavieja, where drivers will be waiting. We booked our trip with Joe; he’s a fantastic English-speaking guide, and you can WhatsApp him to make a reservation in advance (recommended). Expect to pay about 85 – 110 USD for a two-day tuk-tuk guided tour, which can be split among three people.

Click here to open Whatsapp and send Joe a message or call +57 310 403 0102.

If you plan on walking or cycling, download Google Maps or Maps.me offline to not get lost in the desert. Also bring a lot of water , a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses because it can get extremely hot and bright.

How many days do you need?

We recommend spending at least one night in the Tatacoa Desert. You need one full day from morning to evening to enjoy all the things to do in Tatacoa. Two nights would be ideal since you can split your journey over two days and also relax a little bit. 

Can you do a day trip to the Tatacoa Desert? 

Yes, it is possible to visit the Tatacoa Desert from the city of Neiva on a day trip. You can fly from Bogota to Neiva Airport and directly hop in a car to visit the desert, which is about 1 hour away from Neiva. ( Book your hotel in Neiva )

Getting to the Tatacoa Desert in Colombia

The Tatacoa Desert is an off-the-beaten-path destination and is quite time-consuming to reach. To get to the desert, you first have to travel to Neiva, a larger city with a bus station and domestic airport. Travel by bus in about 6-9 hours ( book bus tickets here ) or 1 hour by plane from Bogota ( book a flight here ).

Once you’ve arrived in Neiva, you will need to take a taxi or bus (Colectivo) for about 1/1.5 hour to get to your hotel in Villavieja or the Tatacoa Desert. We felt very safe and welcomed during our entire journey by the Colombian people.

Best Cafes and Restaurants

There are a few good places to eat in Villavieja and within the Tatacoa Desert. However, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, we recommend staying in Villavieja as it will be easier there. One place that surprised us was the artistic brewpub named La Planta.

• La Planta Brew pub – International food (Villavieja)
• Salsipuedes – Local and international food (Villavieja)
• Sol del Desierto – Local food in a lovely garden (Villavieja)
• Café Mael – Coffees & Wi Fi (Villavieja)
• Estadero y Restaurante Los Hoyos (Tatacoa)
• El Rincon del Cabrito (Tatacoa)

Best time to visit

The Tatacoa Desert is one of the hottest places in Colombia: temperatures can reach 40 degrees during the day. April – May, and October – November are the months when it rains quite a lot in the ‘desert’. You can still visit during these months, but if there’s too much rain, there won’t be any tours, and the valleys are closed.

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Visit The Tatacoa Desert: A Complete Guide (2024)

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Tatacoa Desert, located in the heart of Colombia, can be considered one of the country’s hidden gems. It is famos for its surreal, moon-like landscape, with worn canyons and colorful rock formations. If you’re seeking a truly unique adventure, this desert should be at the top of your list. Its crystal clear night skies, make the Tatacoa Desert a prime location for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the stars seem to shine brighter here, offering an spectacular display that is not to be missed.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential tips and information you need to plan your visit to the Tatacoa Desert.

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What you need to know about the Tatacoa Desert

Tatacoa Desert is renowned for its colorful rock formations and deep canyons that have been sculpted over millions of years. With no direct buses or airports nearby, reaching Tatacoa Desert is not the easiest endeavor. This might explain why it’s still not overly touristy. However, trust us, the effort of getting to Tatacoa Desert is absolutely worth it. Tatacoa treats you to some breathtaking landscapes that will have your camera working overtime. And those who don’t mind the burning sun can embark on  short hikes that promise unforgettable experiences. It is quite baffling how the landscapes can be so different within the Tatacoa Desert with contrasting Red and Grey Desert both being part of it. So, if you’re up for an off-the-beaten-track adventure and have enough time, Tatacoa Desert is your destination.

“Tatacoa” is believed to come from the Huila word “tataco,” which is said to refer to a type of rattlesnake found in the area. Rattlesnakes were and still are a part of the desert’s ecosystem, so watch your steps.

Interestingly, although the Tatacoa Desert is often referred to as a desert due to its dry landscape, it is technically not one. While it resembles a desert, it doesn’t fit the strict scientific definition of a true desert and is classified as a “dry tropical forest.” The reason for this distinction is that the area still receives some rainfall over time, which has contributed to the formation of these incredible landscapes. Additionally, you will notice a significant amount of greenery in the area.

Depending on your itinerary and pace, it will take you 2-5 hours to explore the Tatacoa desert.  As it gets very hot in the Tatacoa Desert, we recommend to plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon. In case you would like to enjoy the sunset in the Red Desert, you should be there around 4 pm to allow enough time to explore the labyrinths without feeling rushed.

We’d like to highlight that you should not climb on the delicate walls in the Tatacoa Desert. The soil and rock formations are often very fragile, and climbing can accelerate the natural erosion process.

While visiting the Tatacoa Desert, keep in mind that the terrain can be rugged, so comfortable footwear is a must. Additionally, be sure to bring enough water with you. While there are vendors at the viewpoints, you can expect higher prices there. It’s important to note that you won’t find any places to purchase water directly on the hiking trail.

The hiking trails in the Tatacoa Desert aren’t very well marked, so in case you are visiting the place without a tour guide, we recommend downloading the Maps.me application and an offline map of the area to avoid getting lost.

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Best things to do in the Tatacoa Desert

We’ve visited the Tatacoa Desert after our trip to Salento . Going to the desert was one of our bucket list items when we crafted our Colombia itinerary and it didn’t disappoint. So, we’ve collected the best things you can do while being in Tatacoa.

1. El Cuzco - the Red Desert

El Cuzco, also known as the Red Desert, is like stepping onto another planet right here on Earth. The striking contrast between the vivid red and gray rock formations, that have been shaped over centuries, creates an otherworldly atmosphere. 

The Red Desert’s breathtaking landscape is the result of millions of years of geological processes. The striking red coloration comes from the high iron concentration in the soil and rocks. Erosion has sculpted the formations into a maze-like labyrinth of canyons, ridges, and spires. Exploring this geological wonderland is like taking a journey through time, as each layer of rock tells a different story of Earth’s history.  The interplay of light and shadow on the red rocks, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates a magical atmosphere.

To fully immerse yourself in the wonder of the Red Desert, you’ll start your journey at one of the viewpoints: “Mirador El Cuzco” or “Mirador Laberinto El Cuzco.” These points offer panoramic views of the surreal landscape, making them ideal spots for photographs. The hike into the labyrinth of these unique formations begins here.

The hike is a one-way journey, and can be completed in either direction. Your driver will be waiting for you at the opposite end or viewpoint. Depending on your pace and the stops you make for photos and exploration, the hike typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour. It’s an opportunity to get up close to the dramatic geology that defines El Cuzco.

If you have not tried Guarapo yet, the Tatacoa Desert might be the place. In both viewpoints there are vendors selling this refreshing cold beverage. Guarapo is a drink made from raw, pressed sugarcane juice mixed with water, ice, and lots of fresh limes. Although it is very sweet, we still like it.

2. Los Hoyos - The Grey Desert

Los Hoyos, known as the Grey Desert, is named for its distinctive gray and silver formations.  Although many people seem to like the Red Desert more, we think the two places are totally different and cannot really be compared. Therefore, we recommend visiting both.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Los Hoyos is its geological history. The distinct gray tones of the landscape are due to the presence of volcanic ash, offering a striking contrast to its brother the Red Desert. 

The best way to explore Los Hoyos is on foot, taking a leisurely hike through its winding trails. The trek is about 40 min to 1 hour long and you will end at the parking lot again.  As you hike through this mesmerizing terrain, you’ll encounter a surreal blend of lunar-like landscapes and viewpoints that reveal panoramic views of the Grey Desert’s unique beauty.

At the end of the hiking trail, there’s a pool with a view over the Grey Desert. While it did appear nice when we arrived (many blogs claim the water often appears to be dirty), and it would certainly have been a refreshing experience, we made the choice not to support activities that appear unsustainable to us. The idea of having large pools in the midst of the desert doesn’t seem environmentally responsible. Also, it does ruin the beautiful views on the landscape.

3. Valle de los Xilopalos

Third hike you can do in the Tatacoa Desert is in the Valle de los Xilopalos. This is the furthest away from Villavieja. Also here, the trail starts at a viewpoint. While the rock formations here are not as spectacular as in the Red and Grey Desert, the track offers some fascinating narrow gorges which make the place special. Also, less tourists seem to go there, giving you the opportunity to explore the area alone, if you are lucky. Hiking the Xilopalos Trail takes one to two hours.

4. Stargazing

• Observatorio Astronomico Astrosur lies in the Tatacoa Desert. While the light pollution there is minimal, it only offers tours in Spanish.
• Observatories Astronomico Vyctoriastars is near Villavieja town, which may mean a bit more light pollution. From the positive side, it also has a short 15 min explanation in English at the end of the stargazing experience.

You can and should negotiate the tuk-tuk price when heading to the observatory near Villavieja. The ride is only 7 minutes, but they often quote a higher price, stating that the driver will wait throughout your tour. However, in reality, they don’t remain there for the entire duration but return to Villavieja until your tour concludes.

How to get to the Tatacoa Desert?

From salento to the tatacoa desert.

There is no direct bus from Salento to the Tatacoa Desert. To reach Villavieja, a small village near the Tatacoa Desert you have two options. For both options you need to travel from Salento to Armenia first.  Buses from Salento to Armenia depart every 20 minutes and the ticket costs 6,000 COP (approx. 1.5 USD). The ride takes a good hour to arrive at the Armenia Terminal. The buses may cross through Circasia, if there are passengers that wish to exit there.

Once you have arrived in Armenia you can either buy a bus ticket to Neiva and from there take a mini-van to Villavieja or you can choose to drop off already at Aipe. The journey to Aipe takes around 5 to 7 hours, while the ride to Neiva takes around 6 to 8 hours. The tickets to get to Aipe and Neiva can be booked at the counters of Cootranshuila and Coomotor and cost 60,000 COP to 80,000 COP (approx. 15-22 USD). We would recommend to take one of the buses leaving at 11:00 or 11:15 a.m. in the morning, to be sure you will catch the last bus from Neiva. Here you can check the current timetables   for Cootranshuila and for Coomotor  online.

If you choose to travel to Aipe, a small village located next to Villavieja on the opposite side of the Magdalena river, you can take a moto-taxi to drive you to the ferry. From there hop on a canoe taxi to bring you directly to Villavieja. While doing so will save you a good 1 – 1.5 hours of travel time, it’s a little less convenient, especially if you have heavy luggage. Make sure to arrive at Aipe latest at 5:15 – 5:30 p.m. as the last river-crossing will be at around 6:00 p.m.

If you choose to travel to Neiva, you can buy a ticket for a local mini-van to Villavieja at the local transfer counters. The ride to Villavieja costs 10,000 COP (approx. 2.5 USD) and takes around 1 hour. Tatacoa Desert is about 15 min away from Villavieja and can be easily visited with a tuk-tuk, costing 30,000-90,000 COP  (8-23 USD)   per person for a round trip, depending on which places you wish to visit.

While the journey to the Tatacoa Desert can be quite an adventure, it’s really worth it. We managed to get from Salento to the Tatacoa Desert within one day without problems. We decided to take the easier route to Neiva, which added up a little time. We also talked to another traveler taking the river-crossing at Aipe and can confirm that both options work well.

From Neiva to the Tatacoa Desert

In case you decide to stay in Neiva, you can visit the Tatacoa Desert as a day tour. There are two options for that. You can take  a local mini-van to Villavieja from the Neiva Bus Terminal. The ride to Villavieja costs 10.000 COP (approx. 2.5 USD) and takes around 1 hour. From there you can take a tuk-tuk to explore the Tatacoa Desert,  costing 30,000-90,000 COP  (8-23 USD)   per person for a round trip depending on you route .  Another option is to get a private taxi or a tour from Neiva to bring you directly to the Tatacoa Desert and back.

From Bogota to the Tatacoa Desert

There is no direct bus from Bogota to the Tatacoa Desert – also being a reason why it still not so touristy gem of Colombia. To reach Villavieja, a small village near the Tatacoa Desert, you first have to take a bus to Neiva. For this you will have to go to the Bus Terminal Salitre. There are two bus terminals in Bogota so make sure to go to the right one. 

Once in the terminal, look for ticket offices of  Cootranshuila and Coomotor.  It is important to note that  Terminal Salitre in Bogota is enormous, so plan enough time to find the right ticket booth and your bus.  The buses are leaving from Bogota frequently almost around the clock.  Here you can check the current timetables   for Cootranshuila  and  for Coomotor  online.  The bus ride from Bogota to Neiva takes 6-8 hours and the ticket costs 60,000-80,000 COP (approx. 15-21 USD). We want to highlight though, that the connecting bus from Neiva only operates from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., so it is important to plan your trip accordingly.

From Neiva you can buy a ticket for a local mini-van to Villavieja at the local transfer counters. The ride to Villavieja costs 10,000 COP (approx. 2.5 USD) and takes around 1 hour. atacoa Desert is conveniently located just 15 minutes away from Villavieja and can be readily explored using a tuk-tuk. A round trip on a tuk-tuk to Tatacoa Desert generally ranges from 30,000 to 90,000 COP  (8-23 USD)    per person, depending on your itinerary.

From Cali to the Tatacoa Desert

To reach the Tatacoa Desert from Cali you will first have to take a bus to Neiva. The bus ride takes about 8-10 hours and costs you 77,000-90,000 COP (20-23 USD). When in the Bus Terminal, look for counters of Coomotor or Bolivariano. As the connecting buses from Neiva will only operate until 7 p.m., it is probably best to take a night bus from Cali to not spend a night in Neiva. You can check the current timetables for Bolivariano and  for Coomotor online.

Once in Neiva, you can purchase a ticket for a local mini-van to Villavieja at the transfer counters. The journey to Villavieja is priced at 10,000 COP (approx. 2.5 USD), and typically lasts around 1 hour. Tatacoa Desert, conveniently situated just 15 minutes from Villavieja, is easily accessible by tuk-tuk. The cost of a round trip on a tuk-tuk to Tatacoa Desert varies, ranging from 30,000 to 90,000 COP (8-23 USD) per person, depending on your specific travel plans.

Where to stay in the Tatacoa Desert?

There are three options to stay in and around the Tatacoa Desert. You can choose the best place to stay depending on your preferences and available budget. 

Tatacoa Desert: In case you would like to enjoy the peace and starry nights in the desert itself, there are options for you from basic tents to lodges for your stay. As said, this also means that you are more dependent on you accommodation

Villavieja: If you are on budget, staying in Villavieja could be the best option for you. There are several affordable hostels in there but also some more luxurious accommodations.

Neiva: Some people also stay at the nearby city Neiva which is about a 1,5-hour-ride away from Tatacoa. While there may be a wider offer of accommodations and restaurants in Neiva, we have also heard that it is not the safest town to stay.

Where to eat in the Tatacoa Desert?

In case you are staying in Villavieja, there are several restaurants and cafes in the town to get some food. We really enjoyed the Restaurante Salsipuedes. Also we recommend to try out some local beer at La Planta Brew Pub Tatacoa. The beer with cocoa was really special. For some coffee and snacks you can go to Cafe Mael. As Villavieja is a really small town, the prices are fair (except for the water in the shops).

In case you have booked your accommodation in the Tatacoa Desert you are rather dependent on your hostel/hotel as depending on where you are staying there may not be many restaurants around. This can also mean that the accommodation is taking a use of the situation and charges higher prices for meals.

Consider trying a refreshing michelada, a drink made by mixing beer with lime juice. It’s a great choice after a hot day, as it contains valuable minerals. It tastes a bit like Corona beer.

How to get around in the Tatacoa Desert?

Villavieja is a very small town, so you can easily walk to any destination within it. However, if you’re planning to visit the Tatacoa Desert, you’ll need to take a short 15-minute ride. There are several options available for visiting the Tatacoa Desert from Villavieja.

Take a Tuk-Tuk

You’ll find several tuk-tuk drivers waiting at the main plaza in Villavieja. You can arrange your trip to the Tatacoa Desert with them. The price will depend on your preferred route, whereas they have fixed prices based on destination. It’s important to note that you will book the tuk-tuk for a round trip, meaning the driver will wait for you while you explore the desert. This is also why the prices are slightly higher than regular city tuk-tuk rides would be. 

Traveling to both the Red and Grey Deserts costs 60,000 COP per person (approx. 15 USD). This fee covers a 2-4 hour tour, during which the driver will take you to the viewpoints and wait for your return from the hike. If you’d like to include a visit to the Xilopalos trail, there is an additional charge of 30,000 COP (approx. 8 USD) per person.

We’ve also heard that there are tuk-tuk drivers in Villavieja who speak English and can provide you with a private guided tour. If you’re interested in learning more about the area and its attractions, you can inquire about this option.

Take a Guided Tour

There are, of course, guided group and private tours available for visiting the Tatacoa Desert. You can book these tours either from Neiva or directly from Villavieja, depending on where you stay. The approximate cost of these tours is around 80-100 USD. These guided tours offer a convenient and organized way to experience the desert’s wonders while also providing valuable insights into the area.

When is the best time to visit the Tatacoa Desert?

The best time to visit the Tatacoa Desert is during the dry season between December and March and during the wet season between June and August, when rainfalls are rare and skies are clear. As common for deserts, temperatures during the day can be extremely hot, while at nights it drops significantly. Expect temperatures around 33°C – 35°C (91°F – 95°F) during the day and 5°C – 15°C (41°F – 59°F) at night.

We visited the Tatacoa Desert in September and we were melting in the sun. Having that said, we’ve had a really good time while at the Tatacoa Desert. So, if you can cope with high temperatures it’s definitely no issue traveling to Tatacoa all year round.

What does it cost to visit the Tatacoa Desert?

Accommodation in Tatacoa Desert is very budget friendly and affordable. You can find cheap private rooms for as low as 15 USD and decent food for 5 USD a meal. However, there is not too much luxury in the desert. Most accommodations in Villavieja and the Tatacoa desert are tented camps or small huts with shared bathrooms. So, don’t expect to lodge like a king.

Expect to pay around 200 USD a week if you travel budget up to a maximum of 1000 USD a week, if you are after every activity and the most luxury stays.

How many days to stay in the Tatacoa Desert?

We’ve been to the Tatacoa Desert for 3 nights and had 2 full-days to explore the area, which we would also recommend. Spend the first day to relax from your travel day to Tatacoa, explore Villavieja, have some good meals and go for some stargazing at night. On the second day, get up early to visit the Tatacoa Desert and spend your second night inside the desert.

While there are not a ton of things to do around the area of Tatacoa and Villavieja, we think it’s a perfect adventure trip to some of the remote, yet safe areas of Colombia.

Is visiting the Tatacoa Desert worth it?

Yes, it is! Even though it’s a little adventure to get there, we think that you will have a great time. There is no other desert in the country that is a beautiful as Tatacoa and it is still one of the best kept secrets of Colombia. It seems like the Tatacoa Desert has not yet been discovered too much by tourism.

During our stay in September we only saw a hand-full of foreign tourists. The locals are super friendly and not used too much to tourism yet, which makes the trip to the Tatacoa Desert an authentic experience. Moreover, Tatacoa Desert is not the typical desert you would expect, which makes it a unique landmark. We’ve had so much fun exploring El Cuzsco (Red Desert) and Los Hoyos (Grey Desert) and get lost in the maze of sand formations. And if you’re lucky, you’ll see crystal clear skies. So if a little adventure is something that you look for when traveling through Colombia, then the Tatacoa Desert won’t disappoint.

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Discuss With Us

Do you have any contacts (locals) for visiting Tatacoa Desert? We are planning to go on April 1st, but I want to make sure that visiting is possible due to the weather. Would by nice to contact someone and discuss first.

I look forward to hear from you 🙂

Kind Regards, Luka & Paul

Hey Luka & Paul,

super cool that you plan to visit the Tatacoa Desert!

You’re right, April falls in the wet season, so occasional rainfalls can happen. And when it rains, it’s most likely gonna be heavy. There are no official closure dates for Tatacoa, but if you’re unlucky the desert may be closed on the few days you will be there due to inaccessible roads. We would probably still take the risk and plan on going there as this place is just amazing!

We visited Tatacoa in August and hired a driver right from the Plaza, so, unfortunately, we don’t have a phone number for you. But what you could do is write to some tour operators and agencies in Neiva (the nearby larger city) via WhatsApp or reach out to the Backpacker Colombia groups on Facebook. We’ve had good experiences with both.

Wish you a great trip to Colombia, it’s a great country to explore, and let us know if there’s anything else you’d like to know!

Cheers, Jens & Laura

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Practical Guide to the Tatacoa Desert – How to Visit the Desierto de la Tatacoa

Located south of Bogotá in the department of Huila, the Desierto de la Tatacoa, or Tatacoa Desert is one of Colombia’s most unique landscapes and natural attractions.

A visit is well worth a stop when traveling Colombia.

That is doubly true if you will already be traveling through this lesser visited side of northwestern Colombia or you just have a few extra days to spend outside of Bogotá.

Susana and I had long had this on our list of places we wanted to see in Colombia, and we really enjoyed it when we went.

Read on to learn all about the Tatacoa Desert, including how to get there, where to stay, and what to see based on our experience. I’ll also be including some information on possible Tatacoa Desert tours, although this is also doable largely on your own.

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Tatacoa Desert of Colombia Travel Guide – Contents

• Why Visit the Tatacoa Desert in Colombia
• What to See and Do in the Desierto de la Tatacoa
• How Many Days for the Desierto Tatacoa?
• Doing a Tatacoa Desert Tour vs Going on Your Own

Where to Stay in the Tatacoa Desert

• Packing List for Colombia’s Tatacoa Desert

How to Get to the Tatacoa Desert

• Practical Tips

Why Visit the Desierto de la Tatacoa of Colombia

To be honest I hadn’t really heard a whole lot about the Tatacoa Desert until a few years ago when I started seeing more and more photos of it pop up on Instagram and other social media.

Luckily, the Desierto de la Tatacoa is well worth visiting for more than just an Insta photo.

There are some nature and adventure places I would recommend over it like Guaviare, Casanare , Caño Cristales , or Colombia’s other desert of La Guajira and Punta Gallinas , all of which also have stunning landscapes themselves.

However those are all a bit tougher to reach too.

The Tatacoa Desert really is a neat landscape, is fun to explore, and, in an added bonus, it has some of the best star gazing you’ll find anywhere. It also makes for a great stop to split up your travel time if you are traveling or backpacking through this part of western Colombia

So, if you plan to go to San Agustín (which is definitely well worth it), Popayán, Pasto, the lovely Las Lajas Sanctuary , and/or travel to or from Ecuador, you ought to include a stop over in Colombia’s Tatacoa Desert too.

Also, if you just have a couple extra days to travel outside Bogotá, including a a couple nights to see the Desierto de la Tatacoa is totally worth it.

Is the Desierto de la Tatacoa Actually a Desert?

Although called the Desierto de la Tatacoa, it’s technically not a desert but a dry tropical forest .

Tens of millions of years ago, it was a thriving and wet forest. However, it has basically been drying up for millions of years, gradually turning into a desert overtime.

There is actually a lot more plant life and green than I expected.

Meanwhile, the wind and rain the area gets has caused erosion over time, carving out tiny canyons like labyrinths and creating unique shapes in the dried out soil. It’s that process of dry erosion that gives the area its fascinating, almost otherworldly looking landscape.

The Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada called it the Valle de las Tristezas , or “valley of sadness.” The name of Tatacoa was also used by the Spanish to refer to the area in reference to the rattlesnakes they found in the area (don’t worry we didn’t run into any snakes during our time in teh desert!).

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What to See at the Tatacoa Desert

Well, the desert, of course.

Actually, there are two main areas of the desert , both of which you’ll want to make sure you see during your visit to the Tatacoa Desert.

There is also an additional, longer and lesser known trail that isn’t always included on Tatacoa Desert tours that we did that I thought was absolutely worth it.

Finally, you can’t come here and not go stargazing at the observatory, and the nearby town of Villavieja is worth spending a bit of time exploring too.

Here, I’ll run down everything to see and do in and around the Desierto de la Tatacoa.

Visit the Gray Desert

As I mentioned before, there are two main areas of the desert, each with its own distinctive color.

The first one we visited was the “gray” part of the desert , usually just called the “desierto gris.”

This is the larger of the two areas and has the additional trail (which I’ll talk about below). It tends to get less attention than the “red” desert. I think that may be because photos of the red desert look better as the gray just is hard to see much contrast in photos.

However, the gray part of the Tatacoa Desert is definitely worth visiting and is arguably neater looking in person. In fact, I think overall I found it more interesting walking through this part of the desert and thought the rock formations are much more unique, even if yes, the red is really neat and makes for some great photos.

Here some of the things you can see in the Gray Desert:

This is the most visited part of the gray desert of Tataco.

There are a few swimming pools that were built at some point. These look kind of cool in photos, but we thought they didn’t look very enticing in person.

I mean that in the sense both that they didn’t look that nice to swim in and they looked kind of like an eyesore. Honestly, it’s kind of a shame they built them in a natural area like this.

What is definitely worth seeing in this part of the gray Tatacoa Desert is the short trail that goes through the Valle de las Fantasmas , or Valley of Ghosts (I’ve also seen this referred to as the Valle de los Deseos ).

The rock formations here are incredibly unique, and get their name because some say they appear to be ghosts or representations of both humans and animals. It’s all very surreal looking.

You might half expect Jabba the Hutt to slither around a corner as it does look a bit like Tatooine (sorry, Star Wars nerd here).

So, while I don’t think the $8,000 fee to swim is worth it, definitely make sure you do the half hour or so walk through the trail to see the rock formations. Do see what you can make out in the shapes, and watch out for the Sarlacc Pit.

As you can see in these photos, the gray part of the desert of Tatacoa is absolutely fascinating looking.

The rock formations are so unique, and it feels a bit like being on the moon. Plus, while I would skip the pools, they are there if you want them.

There is another lesser visited part of the gray part of the Tatacoa Desert that offers a nice hike that we did, which I’m going to tell you about now.

The Xilópalos Trail

Xilópalos are petrified tree trunks.

They are evidence of the thriving tropical forest ecosystem of millions of years ago. In fact, this area is considered one of the most important in Colombia for the finding of fossils.

There is a trail our guide took us on here that was really cool. The Xilópalos at the end of the trail themselves we didn’t find all that impressive (see the photo above), but the trail itself was nice and absolutely worth including on your tour to the Tatacoa Desert.

It goes over lots of interesting terrain in the gray desert, giving you some more views of the surrounding landcapes.

It also passes through 3 narrow canyons named La Señorita, La Culebra, and El Tiempo. This was the highlight of this trail and why I think it’s worth doing.

It’s really interesting passing through these narrow little tunnels that were carved out by rain drainage over millions of years. As you pass through them you can see how the walls still look more like densely packed sand than rock.

This trail is also not very commonly visited, in fact we didn’t see anyone else on it during our hike.

We did this first as it is the farthest away from where we were staying, so it was also a nice, active way to start the day and our tour of the Tatacoa Desert.

The hike isn’t particularly tough, with just a few short inclined sections, and allows you to see a lot more of the desert and chances to look out for birds, lizards, and other animals.

We were still able to see all of the desert in a day, even with a long lunch and nap break. Therefore, I highly recommend doing this trail, even if it means getting up a little earlier to fit it in to your day.

The Red Desert

This area, known as the Red Desert or “Desierto Rojo” tends to be the more well known part of the desert. If you’ve seen photos of the Tatacoa Desert, probably this is the area you have seen.

Iron in the soil here gives it the rusty, reddish orange, copper look.

If the gray part of the desert looks like the moon or Tatooine, this part feels like Mars. Honestly, it does almost feel like you are walking through a movie set or something. Again, it’s almost hard to believe that these neat rock formations are not man made.

It is really neat looking!

The main area here is known as Cuzco .

You can get some neat views from the top before climbing down and walking along the a short trail that goes through this area. The red, wavy walls look like someone molded them out of clay.

This is probably where I should stop and note that you should not climb on any of the formations. They are, in fact, not actually hard rock but extremely tightly packed sand. Climbing on them can damage them.

Maybe a couple more million years they’ll be hard enough to climb on, but for now stay off so others can enjoy the neat landscape of the Tatacoa Desert for themselves.

We went here in the afternoon a little bit before sunset.

The sunset was really pretty, but I actually wished we had gotten here a bit earlier as we were a little rushed walking through the trail itself so we wouldn’t get caught by the dark.

Just outside the entrance and exit to the trail there is a little restaurant that has great jugo de caña , or fresh sugarcane juice. It’s the perfect refreshment for cooling off after walking through the heat of the Tatacoa Desert.

That about sums up seeing the Tatacoa Desert itself.

We did all of this in a day, however, there is a great night time activity in the Tatacoa Desert that makes spending a night all but a must that I’m going to tell you about as well.

Stargaze at the AstroSur Observatory

Besides the neat landscape, the Tatacoa Desert is also well known as an excellent place for stargazing and astrophotography .

That makes sense since it’s a large open space with very little development and light pollution that also happens to be extremely close to the Equator.

There are several observatories in the Tatacoa Desert.

We went to the AstroSur Observatory , which had been recommended to us as the best one. It is run by a university professor, who does a great presentation.

We laid back on astroturf (a nice touch!) while he pointed out with a laser pointer the constellations and planets you can see with the naked eye as well as giving a crash course on basic astronomy and its history.

I thought it was a great presentation. He does talk a bit fast, and it is all in Spanish, so those with little or no Spanish might not get quite as much out of this, but I think it’s still worth including on your visit to the Desierto Tatacoa.

Admission was only $10,000 COP (Colombian Pesos), and there were also 6 telescopes set up looking at different constellations, the moon, and Jupiter that you can look through at the end of the presentation. We didn’t see any Star Destroyers or escape pods though.

It was quite crowded and the lines for the telescopes were a bit long, but for the price and great presentation it seemed like a really great value to me.

We didn’t go to the other observatory, so I can’t say for sure this one is better but I thought it was quite good so I’m willing to take the word of the people who recommended it over the other one.

There is a cool little spot just across the street where you can get a light dinner and/or drinks. They have burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and salchipapas as well as beers, juices, and other stuff like that. Susana loved their mango biche.

They actually have a neat mirador that overlooks the desert too, and this would be an excellent place to see the sunrise.

We watched the sunset here before walking over to the observatory, and that was nice, albeit on the opposite side of the mirador.

Check out the Town of Villavieja

Villavieja is the nearby town just outside the Tatacoa Desert.

Some people stay at hotels in town and do day tours to the Tatacoa Desert, which may be a good choice if you want nicer accommodations or options for restaurants at night.

However, if you stay in the Desierto de la Tatacoa itself like we did, I still recommend heading into town for a half day if you have the time.

Here, I’ll recount a few of the things we saw in Villavieja as well as a few that were recommended to us but we didn’t have time to do.

There is a Museum of Paleontology ( Museo Paleontológico ) here. It is ok and has a few neat examples of petrified wood and animal fossils found nearby in the Tatacoa Desert.

However, it was a little disappointing, especially since we waited through the lunch break to see it. It’s pretty weak compared to all the paleontology exhibits in Villa de Leyva , the other place in Colombia known as a major fossil site.

So, I wouldn’t categorize this a must see, but it was cheap and kind of neat if you are in town anyways and don’t show up at lunch time like we did.

We also checked out a neat brewery and ba called La Planta de Cerveza . It was actually still under construction when we went and only part of it was open.

It’s going to be a really neat space once it’s open though!

There is neat street art and murals in the entrance, a cool bar area, and there will even be a pool area when complete. There will also be a brewery tour, although the beer for the time being is still being made elsewhere.

I was a bit disappointed they didn’t have much of a selection and no beers actually on tap.

The two beers they did have that we tried were pretty good though.

However, assuming they finish, I would think by mid-2022 and after this will be a great place to spend a couple hours and enjoy some craft beers made locally.

Finally, you can go to the malecón on the Magdelena River.

We heard they offer sunset boat rides and were planning on doing it. We ended up not heading down there before it was too late in the day.

There is also a Casa Museo del Totumo that displays artisan crafts made with Totumo. That sounds like it might also be interesting, especially if you have not seen many things made with Totumo before.

Soak in the PisciLodo

This is another thing we did not do, but it was recommended to us by the family that runs the place we stayed. Not to be confused with the very non natural pools at Los Hoyos, this is supposedly a true natural pool and mud bath.

From photos online it looks like there is a pool where you can swim as well as a mud bath where you can cover yourself with mud in an experience similar to the Mud Volcano near Cartagena . Supposedly this is very good for your skin.

We decided we weren’t all that interested in doing this, but it did come recommended and has good comments online.

So, if it interests you, check it out! Doing town in the morning and this in the afternoon would work well.

How Many Days to Visit?

We stayed 3 nights, and this was perfect for us, especially since we were coming from Bogotá and going to San Agustín next, both more or less full day trips.

That gave us 2 complete days to explore, 1 for the desert and 1 for town.

So, I recommend 3 nights .

If you’re coming from closer or heading somewhere closer after, 2 is probably ok.

2 is probably ok as well if you’re not all that interested in seeing Villavieja as you’ll have a full day to see the desert of Tatacoa itself and if you really jam pack that day you can probably fit in one of town or the Piscilodo too.

I think 1 night would just be too whistle stop unless you are coming from and going to Neiva nearby. That way you can get two near full days.

Otherwise, I would find a way to do at least 2 nights. The other reason I’d say 2 nights is so if it’s cloudy your first night, you have the second night as a backup to do the observatory.

On the other hand, I think staying beyond 3 nights might get a bit boring.

If you want an extra day to relax, that’s cool, especially since there are some hotels with pools that aren’t too crazily priced.

However, I wouldn’t do more than 4 nights at the very most.

Going with a Tatacoa Desert Tour vs Going on Your Own

I think if you are comfortable navigating Colombian public transportation, have decent Spanish, and have those 3 nights, going on your own is fine. Don’t worry I’m going to go over how to get there below!

Now, I will say, I do think getting a guide for the walks through the desert itself is definitely best. Our guide said several years back a person got lost for several days and nearly died from dehydration before they found him. Beyond the roads, the trails aren’t particularly well marked.

The guide we went with on our Tatacoa Desert tour with works with our hotel. We paid him $240,000 COP. I think that was pretty reasonable since it was all day, just the two of us on a private tour, and it included Tuk-Tuk transportation to and from the Xilópalos trail and Los Hoyos.

I’m sure you can join group tours in the Tatacoa Desert as well for cheaper.

If you only have 1 or 2 nights, a tour package for the entire trip might be a good option. For those with less Spanish or those not wanting to travel by public transportation, I would advise going with doing a Tatacoa tour package.

If you are coming from Bogotá and would like a guided experience (not a bad idea to avoid the delays of buses), you might be interested in this 3 day tour or this 2 day tour from Bogotá.

BnB Colombia, who we have a partnership with, also offers 2 multi-day tours that include visits to the Tatacoa Desert. This 5 day tour goes to Tatacoa, San Agustín, Popayán, and Cali. Meanwhile, this 12 day tour adds a day in Bogotá and goes to Guaviare instead of Cali.

If you’d like a more custom tailored experience that includes a Tatacoa Desert Tour along with other places in Colombia, fill out this form and they will get back to you to help you design a perfect Colombia trip.

Can You Do a Day Trip to the Tatacoa Desert?

If you are really pressed for time, I would say it is possible to do a day trip, but only from Neiva .

However, if you can only spare a day, I would advise booking a Tatacoa Desert tour because public transportation can run on unreliable schedules (we lost more than 3 hours waiting for the bus from Neiva to Villavieja).

Plus, you would miss out on the observatory.

If you would prefer to do a day trip, this day tour is a good option as it includes the observatory and takes you back to Neiva the same evening. Now, if you have your own transportation, I do think you can make a day trip work on your own and still get the observatory in.

Given the fact that there isn’t that much to see in Neiva itself, rather than book end your trip to the desert staying there, I personally would just opt to stay the couple nights in the desert or in Villavieja.

There are quite a few options for where to stay to visit the Desierto de la Tatacoa. There are cheaper lodge style hotels as well as nicer hotels that offer cabins and even fancy Tatacoa Desert glamping experiences. There are a few limited options for Desierto de la Tatacoa camping too.

You also have the option of staying in the Tatacoa Desert itself or staying in Villavieja, which is only a half hour or so away from the main sites in the desert by tuk tuk. I’m going to give suggestions for both where to stay in the Tatacoa Desert and where to stay in Villavieja below.

We were really pleased with where we stayed, which was sort of a mix between a Tatacoa Desert hostel, hotel, and guesthouse, and I’d definitely recommend it. I do, however have a few more options for Tatacoa Desert hotels and hostels below.

Casa del Campo Los Cactus – Where We Stayed – Highly Recommended

We stayed our 3 nights at Casa del Campo los Cactus and thought it was great.

It’s almost directly in the middle of the desert, half way between the gray desert and the red desert. It’s just a 5 minute walk to the AstroSur Observatory too, which made it very convenient.

We stayed in a small cabin made from recycled soda bottles like the one in the photo. There are several of these cabins as well as some rooms in the main house itself. Some have multiple beds, making this a good option for groups and families too.

It is a family run establishment and the family was super friendly, plus they have an in house guide who we did our tour with. We thought the price was very reasonable as well. It’s certainly not luxury but its comfortable and a good value.

I definitely recommend it for where to stay in the Tatacoa Desert .

Infinito Tatacoa – Luxury Glamping in the Desierto de Tatacoa

If you’re looking for a luxury Desierto de la Tatacoa hotel, or glamping in the Tatacoa Desert, check out Infinito Tatacoa .

A newer place, they offer lovely, luxury glamping style bungalows. Designed based on traditional indigenous homes, it’s a unique look for a vacation cabin.

It is on the very pricey side, but the place looks incredible. There is a spa and a pool on site as well. If you want a luxury experience in the Tatacoa Desert, this is definitely the place for it.

Qji Glamping – More Modestly Priced Desierto de la Tatacoa Glamping

Qji Glamping Biohotel offers bungalows in the desert at prices about half the price of Infinito.

It’s not nearly as luxury looking but still offers nice looking, bamboo style bungalows. There is a pool on site and this Tatacoa Desert glamping is only a short walk from Los Hoyos and the Xilópalos trail.

It makes for a good option for those who want slightly nicer accommodations in the desert itself but don’t have the budget for the snazzier Infinito.

Tubo Hotel – Most Unique Hotel in the Tatacoa Desert

This is a neat looking place and an interesting concept.

In fact, we almost booked here!

Tubo Hotel has small, pod style rooms in giant tubes. It is really colorful with each of the tubes painted different colors and lots of multi-colored common areas. There is also a pool here.

the only downside though is it’s located just outside of Villlavieja and not deep in the desert. It has sort of a hostel atmosphere too, so if you’re looking to meet other travelers and want a pool or looking for place that feel like a hostel in the Tatacoa Desert at more affordable prices than the places above, it’s a good choice.

Pachingo – Best Place for Camping in the Tatacoa Desert

If you want to camp in the Tatacoa Desert, Pachingo is the best option.

Their tents are up on their own little platforms in the desert and there are decent looking bathroom facilities available. There is also a cabin available although it is a good deal pricier than the tents and comparable in price to Qji above.

If it were me, I’d probably rather just pay the little bit more it costs to stay in a room at Casa del Campo los Cactus but if you really want to say you’ve gone camping in the Tatacoa Desert, this is the place to do it.

Places to Stay in Villavieja

If you choose to stay at one of the hotels or hostels in the Tatacoa Desert, you will have limited options for food or things to do at night. Given the close proximity to the observatory and bar/restaurant, this is another big plus for Los Cactus in my opinion.

However, if you want more options while also staying hotel near the Tatacoa Desert, you are better off booking a place to stay in Villavieja.

Here are some good options for where to stay in Villavieja.

Sueño Real Tatacoa – Best Hotel in Villavieja

Located on the edge of town, Sueño Real Tatacoa is a good choice if you want to have a bit more amenities than you’ll find in the hotels in the Tatacoa Desert itself.

The rooms are nice here, there is a great looking pool, and the price is a pretty decent value.

So, if you would prefer to be in a more standard style hotel with the added benefits of a pool and being located in town, this is the best option.

Hotel Colonial Villavieja – Highly Rated Villavieja Hotel

The Hotel Colonial Villavieja is very highly rated online (and has lots of reviews, always a good sign in my opinion).

It’s not particularly fancy, but there is a nice looking pool, and the price is a pretty good value here too (in fact most of these hotels in Villavieja are similarly priced). It is also located in the heart of town.

It’s a good option for where to stay in Villavieja without a doubt.

Hotel Villa Paraiso – Another Solid Option in Town

The Hotel Villa Paraiso makes for another good option for a hotel in Villavieja.

There is a small pool here, and there is also a playground, making this a good choice for families. All their rooms have A/C and they look cozy and comfortable.

Overall, this looks like a decent value for those looking for modest accommodations in town.

Hotel Oasis de Tatacoa – New, Modest Hotel in Villavieja

The Oasis de Tatacoa is a fairly newer hotel in Villavieja.

There is a restaurant here, and it’s a pretty large hotel for a small town like Villavieja.

Unfortunately, there’s no pool, so I’d probably recommend the other places above over this one since they are only a tad more expensive. Still, this looks like a good option if you don’t care about the pool.

Sol del Desierto – Villavieja Hostel Option

This is the only place with dorms that I know of, or at least the only one listed online.

For some reason, the Booking.com page only shows the dorm as a 10 person room that you have to book all together, but you can book the individual beds at HostelWorld.com .

With privates comparable to prices at the other places above and a small pool on site, it’s not a bad value for a private either, and makes the best choice for those looking for a cheap dorm bed or Villavieja hostel near the Tatacoa Desert.

Packing List for the Desierto de la Tatacoa

Generally speaking, you want comfortable stuff for the heat you don’t mind sweating in .

Something like hiking boots is also helpful, especially if you want to do the longer Xilópalos hike but solid and comfortable tennis shoes or walking shoes would also fine.

Sandals will probably be ok for the shorter two main trails.

If you want to do the PisciLodo or stay at a place with a pool, you’ll also want to bring along a bathing suit.

General Travel Gear to Pack

• Susana and I both have the Osprey Porter 46 and love them. It holds a ton and can be used as a carry on for most flights. For something slightly smaller but more comfortable to wear as a backpack, check out the Farpoint 40 or, for the ladies, the Farview 40 .
• I love my Roam packable backpack too. It’s perfect to pack and use as a daypack.
• A good hat is useful for Tatacoa and the hot sun. These straw hats are all the rage now. You can get a girl’s version too. Or you could just opt for a standard ball cap or bucket hat for even more sun protection.
• A good water bottle is useful. It will save you some pesos and be better for the environment as big jugs and bags of water are cheap all over Colombia. Lots of people love LifeStraw bottles that include filters so you can drink tap water at places like the Tatacoa Desert too. A SteriPen can also be useful to have.
• It is also a good idea to take along a little mini-flashlight for walking back to your hotel or hostel after the observatory.

Clothes to Pack for Her

• These tank tops are perfect for the hot weather in Tatacoa.
• These safari shirts that provide UV protection would be great as well.
• Something like these long sleeve tees to prevent sunburn isn’t a bad idea either.
• Susana loves wearing athletic leggings outdoors too. A comfy pair of capris works well.
• Finally, these Merrell hiking shoes would be perfect for the Tatacoa Desert.

Clothes to Pack for Him

• Columbia’s mens tees are also comfy for outdoor activities. As are their button ups , which have UV protection for the hot sun in the Tatacoa Desert.
• These long sleeve athletic tees are also good for preventing getting sunburn.
• These quick dry cargo hiking shorts would be perfect for the Desierto de la Tatacoa.
• And for long pants, these Columbia Silver Ridge pants would be good. I’m also a big fan of these Wrangler pants .
• Merrell hiking shoes are a good option for the guys to wear in the Tatacoa Desert too.

To get to the Tatacoa Desert, you will need to get to the town of Villavieja first .

From Villavieja, you can take Tuk-Tuk motorcycles out to the desert itself. It cost us $25,000 pesos to go to Casa del Campo Los Cactus. You can get them from the central plaza in Villavieja . It may cost a little more or less if you are staying farther away or closer to town.

If you are staying in Villavieja itself, booking a tour like this one to the desert may be cost and time effective, especially if it includes transportation between the two sides of the desert.

Most hotels I would imagine offer tours. We did a day tour like that and having the transportation to and from the Gray part of the desert was nice and saved us lots of time walking. A unique and fun way to see the desert would also be this bike tour from Villavieja too.

Getting from Bogotá to the Tatacoa Desert

To get to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogotá you will normally have to go first to Neiva , unless you are doing a tour like this one .

Bogotá to Neiva

Buses from Bogotá to Neiva leave regularly throughout the day, although I would suggest getting an early start. We paid $50,000 pesos and it took about 7 hours.

You can see some schedules and at least get an idea of current prices at Busbud , although usually there are more options at the terminal itself. You should be able to get buses from both the main Salitre Terminal as well as the Terminal del Sur.

Getting to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogotá via Aipe

I have also heard it’s possible to get to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogotá by taking a bus to Aipe and then taking a boat across the Magdalena to Villavieja.

We didn’t go this route and there isn’t a ton of information on it that I can find online, but it does sound like it’s another viable route from Bogotá to the Tatacoa Desert, and some people have told me the bus to Aite is quicker since you don’t have to wait around in Neiva like we did.

Neiva to Tatacoa Desert

You’ll first need to get to Villavieja. There are buses that leave the terminal in Neiva. However, they do not run on a set schedule but go only once they have at least 8 passengers.

We had to wait over 3 hours for that!

It’s hard to say if we just had bad luck and/or bad timing or if there’s normally a long wait between buses.

On the bright side, it only cost $10,000 pesos.

The trip from Neiva to the Tatacoa Desert takes between an hour and 90 minutes.

The potential need to wait here is why I strongly recommend getting an early start if you are coming from Bogotá and are coming on your own. It’s possible you have better luck, and it’s quick but it’s also possible you could wait even longer.

I would imagine it is possible to pay a taxi to take you from Neiva to Villavieja, but I would expect it to cost at least $100,000 COP. Again, doing a day tour from Neiva is an option if you are pressed for time.

Once in Villavieja, take the Tuk-Tuk out to the desert. We were able to get one even after arriving in the evening shortly after sundown.

How to Get to Tatacoa from Elsewhere

Generally, you’ll need to get to Neiva first.

For example, we went to San Agustín next, and although Villavieja is actually on the way to San Agustín from Neiva, we had to go back to Neiva to get a bus to San Agustín.

If routing through Aite is a quicker option for going or coming from this direction I really can’t comment because we didn’t do it that way, but it might be possible.

It may possible to get some smaller buses or forms of transportation to Villavieja from elsewhere, but you should probably count on needing to get to Neiva.

Again, you can get an idea of price, travel times, and schedules at Busbud .

One note of advice, take travel times with a grain of salt .

If you’re looking on Google Maps for an idea of travel times in this area of Colombia, add a good bit to it. Buses tend to stop for more passengers a lot, and winding mountain roads can be slow going. I recommend giving yourself plenty of cushion on times and getting early starts.

Some Final Practical Tips for the Desierto de la Tatacoa

• There was only 1 ATM that worked in Villavieja (and it didn’t the first time I tried it) and none out in the desert, so it’s a good idea to get cash out in Neiva, Bogotá, or elsewhere before arriving.
• It’s a hot and dry climate, so come prepared for that.
• Cell phone service was pretty spotty, at least out in the Tatacoa Desert itself, so use it as a chance to disconnect.
• There aren’t tons of food options out in the desert, so make sure to ask if your hotel offers food and if you need to order it ahead of time.

Ready to plan your trip to Colombia ‘s Tatacoa Desert?

There you have it, a complete and detailed guide to visiting the Tatacoa Desert. It’s a really neat landscape and is definitely worth a stop when traveling this part of Colombia.

If you do go, I hope you found this guide useful, and even more importantly, that you have a great time!

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

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• Ultimate Guide Exploring Tatacoa Desert...

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Tatacoa Desert, Colombia

The Tatacoa Desert in the central Colombian department of Huila is a popular draw for travellers in Colombia who come for the surreal desert landscapes, incredible stargazing, and sense of isolation. Here’s a complete guide to exploring Colombia’s Tatacoa Desert, including information on where to stay, what to do, and when to go.

How to get to the tatacoa desert.

Getting to the Tatacoa Desert isn’t too complicated, but it does require several different stops along the way: to start with, you’ll need to get to Neiva, the capital of Huila department (buses to here are easy to get from Bogota and many other major cities, as are flights). From Neiva bus station you then catch a colectivo car to the small town of Villavieja which is known as the Gateway to the Tatacoa Desert; this trip should take around 45 minutes. Then from Villavieja you can grab a tuk-tuk or taxi into the desert, which lies only 15 minutes away from the edge of the town. It’s just that simple!

Where to stay in the Tatacoa Desert

The best option for more budget travellers is the Hostal Noches de Saturno, a more basic backpacker hostel a stone’s throw away from the astronomical observatory. With simple, rustic accommodation but, crucially, a swimming pool, the location and cost of Noches de Saturno make it easily the best accommodation choice if you are travelling to Tatacoa with a lower budget.

What to see and do in the Tatacoa Desert

There’s easily enough to see and do in the Tatacoa Desert to fill two or three days, especially if you opt – as you should – to spend one day lounging by the pool, enjoying some beers and the desert heat! Most people spend a day touring around the desert, either by tuk-tuk (most drivers will offer to escort you around on a day-trip, or you can arrange this from your hotel), or by bike (but be aware, the desert is very hot and sunny, so take plenty of sunblock and water). You can visit the stunning landscapes of the red desert, as well as the surreal, moon-like terrain of the grey desert (where there’s also a lovely little swimming pool where you can cool off).

The other key attraction of the desert is the incredible stargazing you can enjoy there: the best in Colombia and some of the best in South America . The stars are amazing from anywhere in the desert, but the best place to experience a true Tatacoa stargazing experience is from the astronomical observatory in the heart of the red desert – for a small fee you can enjoy the incredible telescopes as well as a talk on the stars and information from the observatory’s resident astronomer. Make sure to try and schedule your visit in time for a new moon in order to minimize light pollution and maximize your stargazing experience.

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A Guide to Visiting the Tatacoa Desert in Colombia

Although the Tatacoa Desert (Desierto de la Tatacoa) in Colombia isn’t as unknown as it used to be, it’s still a destination that isn’t on many people’s itineraries. This is because it’s a bit out of the way compared with the most popular stops in Colombia, and most visitors just can’t afford to spend long enough in the country to fit in such a detour. However, if you’re in Colombia for a little longer, or just want to get off the well-trodden ‘gringo path’, then this Tatacoa Desert guide is for you.

In this post you can read about how to get to the Tatacoa Desert, the things to do there, where to stay, how to get around, how many days you need and, of course, where to eat.

If you’d like to see the highlights of our time in the Tatacoa Desert, then make sure to watch our short Tatacoa video  on our  YouTube channel . For more Colombia videos check out our  Colombia Series .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

Table of Contents

About the Tatacoa Desert

The Tatacoa Desert, or Desierto de la Tatacoa is located in the Huila Department of Colombia, about 300km to the south of Bogota, and 38 km from the city of Neiva. Covering over 330 sq km, it is the second largest arid zone in Colombia.

Although its name has the word ‘desert’ in it, it’s actually not a desert. It’s a tropical dry forest, so don’t expect to see huge sand dunes here. Instead, what you’ll see is an incredible landscape of tiny canyons and unique shapes created by erosion. You’ll also notice that the Tatacoa Desert has two distinct regions: the ocher (or red) coloured Cuzco landscape, and the grey Los Hoyos landscape.

Best Things to Do in the Tatacoa Desert in Colombia

Note. You’re going to be in a very hot area, therefore make sure to have adequate sun protection such as SPF, a hat, sunglasses and enough water. We recommend wearing supportive shoes, ideally hiking boots. Please do not climb on top of the formations because its a very sensitive environment. Plus, it’s also prohibited.

1. Hike in the Red Desert of Tatacoa (Cuzco)

The most popular thing to do in Tatacoa is to go on a hike in the Red Desert. Known as Cuzco, this part of the ‘desert’ will make you feel like you’ve just set foot on Mars. Iron gives the soil here its mix of rusty, ocher and copper colours.

You can follow a roughly 3.5km (2.15 mi) long trail starting from Cuzco en el desierto de La Tatacoa, not far from the Astronomical Observatory. The trail is generally flat once you’re down at the bottom. It’s also well-marked and easy to follow. There are a few points of interest along the way, such as the Cementerio de Los Fosiles. You can also enjoy the stunning views from Mirador Laberinto El Cusco and Mirador El Cuzco.

2. Hike in the Grey Desert of Tatacoa (Los Hoyos)

A day trip to Tatacoa wouldn’t be complete without going on a hike through the Grey Desert too. If you felt like you were on Mars in the Red Desert, then in the Grey Desert you’ll feel like you could be walking on the Moon. (Or in Cappadocia, Turkey for a slightly more realistic comparison!)

The Grey Desert, or Los Hoyos , is located about 8km (5 mi) from the Red Desert (Cuzco) . They often call it the ‘Valley of Ghosts’ because some of the formations do look like ghosts from a certain angle.

You can reach the trailhead by getting a tuk-tuk ride from Villavieja. Once there, you can follow a short 1.3 km (0.8 mi) circular trail starting from the parking lot next to the main road.

Located at the end of the Grey Desert hike is Piscina Mineral, which consists of three artificial swimming pools. Both locals and tourists come here to cool down when it gets too hot to be out and about. We personally didn’t find the spot too inviting (plus it was raining), so decided to skip visiting it.

3. Hike the Xilópalos Trail

A much less popular hike you can do in Tatacoa is the Xilópalos Trail in Valle De Los Xilópalos. The trailhead is located a further 2 km (1.3 mi) to the east of the Grey Desert. This trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape as well as a high chance to see more fossils. It also passes through 3 narrow canyons (La Señorita, La Culebra, and El Tiempo) and a goat farm.

You can complete the 4.5km (2.8 mi) long circular trail in the Valley of Xilópalos in about 1.5 hours.

4. Go Stargazing

Thanks to its remote location, there’s hardly any light pollution in the Tatacoa Desert. This means that it’s the perfect place to go stargazing.

If you’re staying in one of the hotels located within Tatacoa, then you can just go for a quick stroll in the vicinity and enjoy the starlit sky. You’d ideally want to do this on a clear night of course. It’s also best to avoid stargazing during a full moon.

However, if you want to learn a bit more about our universe then definitely visit the Observatorio Astronómico Astrosur. You can join a presentation about astronomy before getting the chance to look through a few different telescopes.

5. Walk Around Villavieja

If you have some time to kill, then definitely go for a wander around Villavieja. Of course, the small town won’t be bursting with activities, but we enjoyed walking around regardless.

You can start at the main square (Parque Principal Villavieja) where the colectivo buses drop you off. You can also arrange a tuk-tuk ride to the Tatacoa Desert from here if you wish. As with most main plazas across South America you’ll find a small blue and white church here called Iglesia Villavieja. There’s also a much older looking church on the other side called Capilla de Santa Barbara. At the plaza, you can visit the Paleontology Museum which has a cool display of fossils found in the desert.

Then you can make your way to this cool location called La Planta Brew Pub where you can get some food and a few beers. It has a small entry fee, but then you can stay as long as you want and enjoy some of the street art, handicraft shops or just relax by the pool or in the comfy seating area.

How to Get to the Tatacoa Desert

To get to the Tatacoa Desert, you’ll need to travel to Neiva first before heading on to Villavieja. The cheapest, most environmentally friendly, but longest way to get to these locations is by bus and colectivos. Alternatively, you can also fly from Bogota or Medellin to Neiva, and take a local bus from there. Below we’ll detail how to get to the Tatacoa Desert from a few major cities in Colombia.

Read Next: A Guide to Bus Travel in Colombia

From Bogota to the Tatacoa Desert

As mentioned above, from Bogota you can either take a short flight or a longer bus ride to Neiva. Neiva is the capital of the Huila Department.

There are frequent buses from Terminal del Sur in Bogota to Neiva’s bus terminal. The journey takes between 5 to 6 hours. You can book your bus ride online with Busbud or at the bus station in person.

Once you’re in Neiva, you can take a colectivo bus leaving from the bus terminal to Villavieja. You might need to wait around for a bit until the colectivo gets enough passengers. The journey takes about an hour.

From Cali to the Tatacoa Desert

If you’ve just explored Cali, the Salsa Capital of the World , then you can also get to Neiva and Villavieja from there. There are a few buses leaving either in the morning or in the evening to Neiva from Cali’s main bus terminal.

The journey takes about 9 hours, so we recommend taking an overnight bus if you want to save on a night’s accommodation. You can book your bus ride online with Busbud or at the bus station in person.

In Neiva just get on a colectivo bus towards Villavieja, which should take about an hour.

From Salento to the Tatacoa Desert

If you’ve just finished touring the coffee region of Colombia, you can also reach Neiva from Salento . First you’d need to take a local bus to Armenia. From there, there are a handful of buses travelling to Neiva.

The journey time is around 6 hours from Armenia. You can book your bus ticket online with Busbud or at the bus station in person. Again, you would need to take a colectivo bus from Neiva to Villavieja.

Where to Stay in the Tatacoa Desert

There are a few places you can stay if you’re planning a visit to the Tatacoa Desert in Colombia. There are pros and cons to all of them, so make sure to pick the right base for your needs.

Some travellers stay in Neiva and then take a day trip from there to the Tatacoa Desert. The pros of staying in Neiva is that there are lots of accommodation options and other amenities. You also don’t need to worry about getting back from Villavieja on a colectivo to catch a bus to your next destination. However, it’s still pretty far from the Tatacoa Desert, so you would be spending more getting there and back.

Now, if you’d like to enjoy some comfort and a better variety of amenities, then we recommend staying in Villavieja . The small town has a decent amount of accommodation options, although you might want to book one in advance. There are also a good amount of food options. Plus, it’s only a short tuk-tuk ride away from the Tatacoa Desert, which means that you can spend longer there if you only have one day.

Lastly, if you want to be super close to the Tatacoa Desert, then there are a handful of accommodations that you can book within the desert itself. This would give you the chance to enjoy hiking without having to organise your transport there and back. The downside is that you’ll be further away from amenities and will have a limited amount of food options.

How Long to Stay in the Tatacoa Desert

It depends on where you’re coming from, but you’ll most likely be spending a long time reaching the Tatacoa Desert. This means that you would need to allocate about two days just for travelling.

Luckily, if you’re short on time, you can see the highlights of the Tatacoa Desert in just one day. You can take a trip to the red and gray deserts, enjoy the pools and then head back for a stargazing event in the evening.

That being said, if you want to enjoy the landscape a bit longer and would like to do some independent hiking, then definitely consider adding another night or two to your stay. That would give you plenty of time to hike the Xilópalos Trail and lounge around the pool, or walk around Villavieja for a bit.

Best Time to Visit the Tatacoa Desert

You can basically visit the Tatacoa Desert all year round. Desierto de la Tatacoa is one of the hottest places in Colombia, where temperatures can reach 40°C during the day. Bear in mind that in April, May, October and November it can rain a lot, and the path might be closed if it has rained too much.

Possibly the best time to visit is between June and August. Now, that being said, we visited at the end of July and it rained on-and-off all day. It wasn’t horrible and thankfully we could still visit, but hiking in rainy conditions made the trail very slippery and resulted in our shoes collecting a massive amount of mud which made walking more difficult.

How to Get Around the Tatacoa Desert

Depending on where you’re staying, you can get around Desierto de la Tatacoa with a tuk-tuk driver, by bike or on foot.

If you’re staying inside Tatacoa, then you’ll be able to just go on a hike from your accommodation and explore the area at your own pace.

In case you’re staying in Villavieja but would still want to explore Tatacoa on your own, then you can consider renting a bike in town. Alternatively, you can also join a bike tour around the ‘desert’.

Another great and easy way to visit the Tatacoa Desert if you’re coming from Villavieja is with a tuk-tuk. You can arrange to hire a tuk-tuk driver with your hotel or hostel and they’ll then pick you up from there. They’ll drive you to the ‘desert’ and take you on a short hike through the red and grey deserts, stopping at a few lookout points along the way. You can try to arrange a ride with a driver who speaks English, but of course you can also use Google Translate if one isn’t available.

If you’re basing yourself in Neiva, then it’s probably easiest to book a day trip . You can visit Tatacoa on your own too, but you would need to get a bus to Villavieja and then hire a tuk-tuk driver, which might be more time consuming.

Where to Eat in the Tatacoa Desert

If you’re staying in Villavieja, then there are quite a few places you can eat.

• La Planta Brew Pub is a really cool place to visit and eat in Villavieja. They have an entry fee of 5,000 COP that allows you full access to all their facilities. You can check out their artwork scene or relax at the pool.
• Sol del Desierto has a spacious outdoor seating area and serves some delicious local food. They also offer a daily menu.
• Café Mael also has a nice leafy seating area and serves some lovely desserts and drinks.
• Restaurante Salsipuedes is located at the main square and serves some delicious local meals. Their servings are also pretty generous.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Tatacoa Desert in Colombia

Visiting the Tatacoa Desert was one of the highlights of our Colombia trip. Even though we didn’t have the best weather conditions, we still enjoyed this unique landscape that Mother Nature had created. Whilst the Tatacoa Desert is getting slightly more popular, it was nowhere near as crowded as other places in the country.

Have you ever been to the Tatacoa Desert before? If so, what was your experience and how long did you spend in the area? If not, would you add a trip to Desierto de la Tatacoa to your Colombia itinerary? Let us know in the comments below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

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Tatacoa Desert Colombia | Travel guide to El Desierto de la Tatacoa

Tatacoa Desert , or  Desierto de la Tatacoa , is named after the Spanish word for the rattlesnakes that once called it home. It is also sometimes called the Valley of Sadnesses.

This spectacular landscape is a dried-up tropical rainforest rather than a desert. Thousands of years ago, scientists believe it was a lush environment full of colourful flowers, dense greenery, and rich biodiversity.

Tatacoa Desert and its importance should be considered by travellers to Columbia. In this quirkily beautiful place, you can experience stillness, solitude, and terrain unlike anywhere else in the world.

This magnificent desert is also one of the best places in the world for watching the night sky; there are several renowned observatories. In addition, many pristine fossils of ancient vertebrates have been discovered here.

If you are ready for an off-the-beaten-track destination in Colombia,  visit the Tatacoa Desert  on a voyage of discovery. Hope this guide helps you plan your trip and explore  what to do in the Tatacoa Desert .

Tatacoa Desert Travel Guide

Where is tatacoa desert.

Tatacoa Desert is in southwest Columbia, in the remote Huila region. At 330 km², it is the second largest arid area in the country after  La Guajira  and is located between the Magdalena River and the Eastern Cordillera. 

The Tatacoa desert elevation is between 386 and 900 meters above sea level.

This unique location is off the main Columbian tourist trail as it takes time and dedication to get to. However, the otherworldly feel and stunning scenery make it worthwhile. 

How To Get To Tatacoa Desert

Bogota to tatacoa desert.

If you’re travelling to Tatacoa from the capital  Bogota , take a 30-minute flight or a five-hour bus to Nieva, the capital city of the Huila region.

Salento To Tatacoa Desert

Travellers who have been exploring the Andean mountains around Salento will need to take a bus to Armenia and another bus to Nieva. 

Nieva To Villavieja

Once in Nieva, take a Colectivo Bus to the small town of Villavieja on the edge of the desert. It will take around an hour. 

Villavieja To Tatacoa Desert

The moto-taxis and tuk-tuks in Villavieja will happily take you on the 15-minute journey into the desert.  

My Journey From Bogota To Tatacoa Desert

I was travelling to the Tatacoa Desert from  Bogota . Originally, I had planned to get the bus and cross the River Magdelena on the ferry from Aipe to Villavieja. However, the bus took forever, and the ferry doesn’t operate at night. The safest way was to continue the bus journey to Nieva, and get a taxi. It takes about 45 minutes from Nieve to Villavieja, then a further 15 minutes to Tatacoa Desert

Many travellers decide to book at night in Nieva and get a moto-taxi to the Tatacoa Desert in daylight. I felt like I woke up the accommodation owners by arriving in the dark.

Take A Tatacoa Desert Tour

If the thought of navigating the bus journey to Tatacoa Desert independently sends your head in a spin, there are tours to make it stress-free and come with knowledgeable  local guides .

• Full day tour from Nieva to Tatacoa Desert
• 2-Day Private Tour of Tatacoa Desert from Bogotá
• List of tours with local guides on Tripadvisor

Where To Stay In Tatacoa Desert

The option for accommodation is Villavieja or Tatacoa Desert. I recommend the latter to avoid having to make journeys into the desert and for the stargazing experience.

If you prefer more hotel-style accommodation, it’s best to stay in the town of Villavieja. Thankfully, most are  sustainable accommodations  as most facilities are solar-powered.

Accommodation is limited in Tatacoa Desert so it is best to book in advance, and there is not a huge difference in the price brackets.

Tatacoa Desert Accommodation 

Alojamiento Casa de Campo los Cactus  (where I stayed) is managed by a lovely couple and is a great price. The accommodation has a garden, communal spaces and hammocks. Fab traditional breakfast is included and dinner is available on request. >>  LATEST DEALS at Alojamiento Casa de campo los Cactus

Qji Glamping Biohotel  has bungalows and rooms with an outdoor swimming pool to cool down, or a terrace and garden to relax. Accommodation includes à la carte, American or vegetarian breakfast. >>  LATEST DEALS at Qji Glamping Biohotel

Villavieja Accommodation

Cosmos Tatacoa Hotel  has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, and restaurant. Rooms have private bathrooms, and balconies with a garden view >>  LATEST DEALS at Cosmos Tatacoa Hotel

Solaris Hotel  features a shared lounge, terrace, a restaurant and bar, a hot tub, and karaoke. >>  LATEST DEALS at Solaris Hotel

What To Do In Tatacoa Desert Colombia

Red desert: the cuzco trail.

The Red Desert is the most famous part of this unusual place. It is situated in the centre of the desert, has a distinctive red colour and can be explored via several waymarked trails.

Mirador Laberinto and El Cuzco’s spectacular viewpoints can be reached from the nearby road. However, you need to hike to immerse yourself in the landscape fully. The loop will take around 90 minutes, and the path weaves through ochre and copper towers. The soft soil formations are etched with curves and waves and could be mistaken for modern art.

I recommend any early morning wander if you don’t enjoy walking in the heat. It’s relatively flat, so people of all fitness levels should be ok. Watch your step though, snakes can lurk beneath the spiky cacti.

When your feet begin to ache and the sun rises in the sky, head to the restaurant for a refreshing drink and restorative lunch.

So why is the Tatacoa Desert red?  In this  Colombian desert , the copper hues that glow in the sunlight come from soil rich with mineral iron.

Grey Desert: The Los Hoyos Trail

Wandering in the grey part of the Tatacoa desert is like being on the moon. In the Valle de las Fantasmas (Valley of Ghost), the silver, charcoal and taupe earth has been crafted by nature into surreal figures of animals and people.

There’s a short way-marked trail to follow through the ‘statues’ and, while the grey desert may be less impactful than the red desert and the waves here aren’t as neat, look closely, and you’ll see intricate shapes and patterns that will spark your imagination.

The trail passes through three narrow and twisting canyons carved out by rain over millions of years. These fascinating pathways are called La Senorita, La Culebra and El Tiempo.

Take A Dip In Piscina Mineral

You’ll also see several artificial bright blue swimming pools ( Piscina Mineral ) at the end of the Grey Desert trails in Tatacoa. They look a little incongruous in this supernatural landscape, but the mineral-rich waters can be soothing, and a dip is hard to resist. There is a cafe by Piscina Mineral if you fancy rehydrating after a hike on a hot day.

Go Biking In The Desert

If you’ve not brought your hiking boots or have a limited time in Desierto de la Tatacoa, there are a few places to hire a bike in Villavieja. Unfortunately, the heat was sweltering when I visited, and I decided it was too hot. 

While I was happy to explore under my own steam, I did see a   bike tour   whizz by, and it looked like they were having fun with a local guide. Tours take around three hours, and drinks, snacks and insurance are included. 

Star-Gazing At The Observatory

Stargazing is one of the  best things to do in the Tatacoa Desert . It has a privileged geographical location not far from the equator, at latitude 3º13′ north and longitude 75º10′ west. As a result, the Tatacoa Desert at night will often boast cloud-free skies, minimal light pollution, and dry air, all perfect conditions for star gazing.

The  Tatacoa Astronomia  is the most famous of the observatories in the Tatacoa Desert, and it has a loyal following of amateur and professional astronomers. It was opened in 2015 by Javier Fernando Rua Restrepo, a Columbian man who fell in love with the stars.

The observatory is small and sits behind a dilapidated tarpaulin fence. Yet inside, there are dozens of high-tech telescopes being used by enthusiasts who have been enticed by the fact that it is sometimes possible to see all 88 constellations from this magical place.

If stars are your reason for making the journey to Tatacoa Desert Columbia, plan your trip to coincide with the Tatacoa Astronomia’s legendary star party, a weekend of camping, music and food.

Also, it’s a good idea to arrive in the desert when the moon is waning; a full moon will make the stars less bright.

Explore Villavieja

Villavieja is known as ‘The Gateway to the Tatacoa Desert,’ It is considered one of the oldest settlements in Columbia. The town is an excellent base for day trips into the desert, and if you’re camping, it is the only source of supplies in the area.

The Chapel of Santa Barbara is worth a visit when you’re in Villavieja; the ivory building is an impressive example of Spanish colonialism.

A trip to the  Paleontology Museum  (Museo Paleontológico) is also a good way to while away an hour. It’s basic and only has three rooms, but it houses some interesting examples of ancient vertebrate fossils found in the area.

Wandering the flower-bedecked streets is an excellent way to relax after a long journey to the Tatacoa Desert. The people are very friendly, and it feels tranquil.

FAQs: Visiting Tatacoa Desert 

Best time of year to visit the tatacoa desert.

The  average temperature in the Tatacoa Desert  is a balmy 28 degrees, though, on sunny days, it can hit over 40 degrees in the middle of the day. It is of the hottest parts of Columbia. So be prepared with sun cream, long, loose layers, a hat, and plenty of water. 

Even though the area is a desert, it can rain heavily, especially between  April and May and October to November . This makes it slightly cooler, but if it gets too wet, guided tours won’t run, and the valleys will close due to flooding. 

How Many Days Do You Need In The Tatacoa Desert?

Arriving at the Tatacoa Desert Colombia requires a long, multi-stage journey. Therefore, I recommend staying for two nights. That’s just enough time to chill out after travelling and explore all the sights thoroughly. 

How To Get Around The Tatacoa Desert?

ON FOOT:  The simplest and cheapest way, although you may wish for an alternative when the temperature rises.

TUK-TUK:  I got the number of a tuk-tuk driver when I was in Villavieja. This was an invaluable lifeline, especially when I finished the trail in the grey desert and felt hot and tired. I just sent the driver a WhatsApp, and he came and picked me up. The fares are all standard. 

BY BIKE:  If you want to cover lots of the desert quickly but independently, hire a bike from Villavieja. 

Is It Safe In The Tatacoa Desert?

Yes, I felt very safe in the Tatacoa Desert. The trails are waymarked; I had the number of a local tuk-tuk driver and felt well prepared for the hot, dry weather and uneven terrain. 

The main dangers would be getting lost after going off-path and running out of water and daylight. Just in case, take more water than you think you’ll need and a torch and spare batteries. 

What is the best travel insurance for Colombia?

Travel insurance is still a must to cover all eventualities. Here are my recommended options;

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SafetyWing for Digital Nomads . Benefit from 24/7 assistance, comprehensive and medical cover including Covid-19. Buy insurance whilst you are travelling, with the option of global health insurance.

Is Tatacoa Desert Worth It?

Tatacoa Desert is remote, which is part of its charm; there are no crowds. I loved getting off the standard Colombian tourist trail and seeing the otherworldly landscapes. 

That said, if you have limited time in Colombia, you may think twice, as it takes a lot of time and effort to get to the Tatacoa Desert. This is a place that is best for slow travellers . 

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Tatacoa Desert, Colombia: Essential Visitor’s Guide

The Tatacoa Desert is home to some of Colombia’s most incredible landscapes that will leave you feeling like you’ve been transported into space.

You’ll experience the Mars-like, barren Red Desert and the moon-like Grey Desert. As well as having one of the clearest views of the Milky Way as the Desierto de Tatacoa is one of the best places to go stargazing.

And despite its magnificence, the desert is very much a little-known gem in Colombia. Sure, there’s tourism infrastructure, but you’ll be a long way from the crowds of the most popular spots in the country.

So if you’re planning on visiting, this guide is for you. There’s everything you could need to know to plan your visit and have the best time.

Find out how to get to the Tatacoa Desert, where to stay, what to do and more recommendations and top travel tips…

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a qualifying purchase.

Where is the Tatacoa Desert?

Located in the Huila department, the Tatacoa Desert Colombia is about 6 hours south of Bogota by road. Though that’s not necessarily 6 hours by bus…

The nearest city is Neiva and the nearest town is Villavieja – both sit on the Magdalena River.

What is the Tatacoa Desert Famous For?

There’s 3 things the Tatacoa Desert is famous for:

• Its striking and beautiful Mars-like landscapes in the Red Desert and Grey Desert.
• Stargazing thanks to its remote location and no light pollution.
• Not actually being a desert .

The landscapes are other-worldly, they’re incredible. I couldn’t stop taking photos and didn’t want to leave.

Stargazing is a little trickier because you need clear skies. And unfortunately, when I went, it was cloudy the entire time. But maybe you’ll have better luck…

And lastly, it’s not actually a desert – as everyone will be quick to tell you online. It is, in fact, a dry tropical forest and what you see in the pictures is soil and not sand.

I speak from experience when I say I know it rains, as when I was there the weather was very, very wet ! In fact, I’ve never seen rain like it – all accompanied by lightning and thunder that echoed endlessly across the vast landscape.

And you can see pictures at the bottom of this post if you want to see what it was like to walk around after that rain… Spoiler: very muddy.

Is the Tatacoa Desert Worth it?

Absolutely . Even across the varied landscapes of Latin America, the Tatacoa Desert is unique and well worth visiting.

But not only is it unique, it’s totally breathtaking . It feels like an alien planet, and no photo can do it justice. You just have to experience it.

In the Tatacoa Desert, there’s lots to see but not lots of different things to do. And this makes visiting quite easy.

In fact, I’d say that there’s only 3 main things to do :

• See the desert landscapes
• Stargaze at the skies above

And how you mix those 3 is totally up to you. But, here’s some ideas for your trip to the Tatacoa Desert…

Hike in Red Desert

Also known as the Cusco Labyrinth, the Red Desert really is the highlight of the Tatacoa Desert . This is where you’ll see the brightly coloured mud formations climbing high off the ground.

At both the start and the end of the trail there’s viewpoints where you can look over the Red Desert from above. These are both great spots for photos if you don’t want to walk the circular trail.

But for those who do embark on the 2.1-km trail , they’ll be rewarded with stunning landscapes up close and personal. In fact, it’s one of the best hikes in Colombia . Plus you’ll have a few encounters with goats.

Mostly the trail is easy to follow but in places, it can get a little confusing. It’s a good idea to have Maps.me downloaded – as the walking route is shown on this app.

One thing to know, it’s important not to walk on the mud formations as these will get damaged and crumble easily. And leaving the landscape exactly as you found it for people to enjoy after is an essential of enjoying the outdoors.

Walk through the Grey Desert

If the Red Desert is like Mars, then the Grey Desert is like being on the moon .

And honestly, it’s a little creepy. To me, the mud formations here look a little too much like ghosts!

The trail is 2-km long starting from the roadside entrance all the way around to the swimming pool and parking area. It’s free to do and takes about 90 minutes for the full loop.

If I had to choose only one, I’d pick the Red Desert as it’s much more striking – in my opinion. But if you have time for both hikes, definitely do.

Strike a pose at Tatacoa Selfies

If anything stands out more than bright orange soil formations in the desert, then it’s the large works of art at Tatacoa Selfies. Snakes, alien spaceships, love hearts, mirrors – all perfectly designed for selfies and perspective photos.

Entrance costs 10,000 COP (children under 5 go free) and staff are on hand to take photos. No need to purchase photos, you can use your own phone or camera.

Kids and big kids alike will have fun here for an hour or so…

Valley of the Xilópalos Trail

The third and perhaps least well-known of the hiking trails. The Valle de los Xilópalos trail offers stunning desert views and the chance to see fossils .

A full loop of the circular trail is 4.5 km and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours . Maybe more if it’s hot and you take regular breaks.

There’s a small fee of 3000 COP to access private land on the trail. But, it’s well worth it for the beautiful and varied landscapes.

I recommend following the trail on Maps.me or AllTrails to avoid getting off track. And that means you won’t have to walk any further than needed in the hot desert sun!

Visit the Tatacoa Observatory

Open every day, the Astronomical Observatory is a great place to view the stars, moon and planets through a telescope.

The cost is 10,000 COP per person and the experience lasts 1.5 hours from 7 pm . You’ll get a presentation on astronomy (Spanish only) and time to look through the different telescopes.

But even if you don’t speak Spanish, you’ll still have a fun time looking at the night sky. Just make sure to visit on a clear night otherwise you’ll just see clouds!

Stargaze at your hotel

You don’t need to go to the observatory to see the stars. All you need is a clear night and somewhere to sit .

Many hotels in the desert have nets set up that you can lay on and look directly up at the sky. Simply wait for it to get dark, then lay back and look out at the universe.

One thing to know though, is that you will be bitten alive laying here ! Make sure to wear long trousers and sleeves and wear repellent. I found cocooning myself in my sleeping bag liner worked a treat – although I did look like a worm!

No, you don’t need one but it’s easy enough to get one if you do. The walks in the Red Desert and Grey Desert are simple enough to follow by yourself with the map on a sign nearby (plus GPS for back-up) and it can be fun to enjoy it without time constraints or someone waiting. If you’re not staying in the desert, I’d recommend hiring a tuk-tuk driver. They do double up as guides and will be able to show you the best spots and give you information. But you don’t have to ask them to accompany you on walks and to viewpoints.

Where to Stay in the Tatacoa Desert

Welcome to the desert. There’s camping, glamping, ecolodges, good hotels, average hotels and pretty poor hotels.

So to help you navigate your accommodation options, I’ve broken it down in the sections below. So whether you want to stay in the desert or outside of it, you’ll find something for you.

One thing to know though is that luxury doesn’t really exist in the desert. So, if anywhere’s claiming to be luxury, definitely check out the reviews and what’s included in the price before booking.

Otherwise, I recommend…

BEST TATACOA DESERT HOTEL: QJI GLAMPING BIOHOTEL

BEST VILLAVIEJA HOTEL: HOTEL COLONIAL VILLAVIEJA

TOP CHOICE FOR BUDGET: MERKEZI SARAY

In the Desert

BEST MID-TIER NEAR GREY DESERT: Qji Glamping Biohotel

Within walking distance of the Grey Desert , this eco-lodge is a popular choice with visitors . Breakfast is included and there’s also a pool and nets for stargazing.

This is the perfect option for those looking to be deep in the desert with a few modern comforts .

BEST MID-TIER NEAR RED DESERT: El Peñon De Constantino

This Tatacoa Desert hotel has a selection of cute huts and one-room cottages . Breakfast is included as standard with the option for dinner on-site too.

Make the most of the pool and stunning views over the varied landscape. Perfect for those who want to be within walking distance of the main sights.

Plus, as this hotel is near the Red Desert (and the observatory), it’s also near Villavieja. Meaning it’s cheaper to get a tuk-tuk to here than other hotels deeper in the desert.

BUDGET OPTION: Posada la Tranquilidad

With a bed on offer for just over 35,000 COP , this really is a budget-friendly option . It also couldn’t be better located since it’s pretty much next to both the observatory and Red Desert .

Sure, there’s no pool and it’s a shared room and shared bathroom. But, it’s a great way to keep costs low if you’re travelling on a budget.

Another plus point is the shared kitchen here, which also allows you to keep costs low. As eating out in the desert a lot can add up quickly.

In Villavieja

BEST VILLAVIEJA MID-TIER: Hotel Colonial Villavieja

Boasting a pool, air conditioning, TVs and bikes for hire, this hotel is your one-stop shop in Villavieja. Rooms sleep up to 4 people, making it perfect for couples, friends and families .

And conveniently located near the central Plaza in Villavieja . You’ll have restaurants, shops and the bus stop to/from Neiva all on your doorstep.

TOP HOSTEL EXPERIENCE: Tubo Hotel La Tatacoa

Although not technically a hostel, this place is as close as you’re going to get. With its funky-coloured tube rooms, swimming pool and communal lounge areas , it’s a great place to meet other travellers .

If you’re looking for fun and don’t mind sacrificing some space in your room to be around like-minded people, this is the place for you…

GREAT FOR BUDGET: Merkezi Saray

Whether you’re just staying one night before heading into the desert. Or whether you’re basing yourself in Villavieja and taking day trips to the desert. You can’t go wrong with Merkezi Saray.

The staff are friendly, the beds are comfy and the prices are low . And double and family rooms are available – with and without air con at a slight price premium.

If no-frills, does-the-job accommodation is what you’re looking for, this is where you’ll want to be…

Travelling to Tatacoa takes pretty much a full day from everywhere. So I’d recommend spending the first night in Villavieja and then 2 nights in the desert . But given the distance travelled and the hours of daylight, at a minimum I would say you’ll need one full day. This could be a 2-night stay in Villavieja. Arrive on Day 1, see the desert on Day 2 and then onward travel on Day 3.

Eating and Drinking

In all honesty, the choice of where and what to eat and drink in the Tatacoa Desert Colombia is very limited .

It’s a remote location that hasn’t – yet – attracted mass tourism. There’s a couple of restaurants near the Grey Desert and a couple near the Red Desert , all serving typical Colombian food.

Because of this, it’s common to have all your meals at the hotel you’re staying in . Many include breakfast and a lot have the option to pay extra for dinner – typically a set menu – and also sell a basic range of drinks.

TOP TIP: Bring lots of snacks and drinks. You’ll have the best choice in Neiva but you can also pick them up in Villavieja.

The small town of Villavieja does have a few more options for restaurants and bars. But not exactly like you’re spoilt for choice – this is rural Colombia, after all…

Transport in the Desert

The hot weather combined with the large distances between landmarks within the Tatacoa Desert means you probably need transport to get around.

The Red Desert to the Grey Desert, for example, is almost 8 km . That’d be about 90 minutes of walking in the blazing sun.

Tuk-tuks are a popular way to get around the desert. And they’re the easiest way to get from Villavieja into the desert.

And the prices are fixed so you should always know upfront what you’re going to pay. Although they are more expensive than what you might be used to paying in Colombia.

How do I get from Villavieja to Tatacoa Desert?

The easiest way to get to the desert from Villavieja is using a tuk-tuk. Although a taxi might be better for families or larger groups.

Prices from Villavieja to and between every hotel and the landmark in the Tatacoa Desert Colombia are fixed . Every tuk-tuk driver will charge you the same and they have a document listing the prices.

Tuk-tuks are great not just for getting into the desert. But also as transport for a day trip from Villavieja if you’re not staying in the desert.

RECOMMENDATION: Looking for a tuk-tuk driver for transport or a day trip? I can recommend Claudia – our lovely driver – contact her on +57 322 7415 454 or on Instagram @tatacoa.maklauss .

Guide-led Tatacoa Desert tours are available from both Villavieja and Neiva .

These typically visit the Red Desert and Grey Desert – although sometimes just to the viewpoints and not with enough time to hike the loops here. Other common stops include the Villavieja Paleontology Museum and the Los Hoyos Swimming Pool.

Shorter tours to one or two specific destinations are available from Villavieja. These can be booked through agencies in the town.

How do you get to the Tatacoa Desert Colombia?

Getting to the Tatacoa Desert isn’t the easiest. But it’s worth it, I promise. And its remote location is all part of the magic.

You can fly from Bogota to Neiva . Or from much of the south of Colombia, you can use a combination of local and long-distance buses to end up in the desert.

But this does mean you’ll need pretty much a full day to travel there and a full day to travel somewhere else afterwards.

How do I get from Bogota to Tatacoa Desert?

From Bogota, you have 3 options to get to the desert.

• Bus to Neiva (10 USD), a truck or minivan to Villavieja (10,000 COP) and then a tuk-tuk
• Bus to Aipe (13 USD), moto taxi to the river (6000 COP), boat to Villavieja (last service 6 pm; 4000 COP) and then a tuk-tuk
• Fly to Neiva (40+ USD), taxi to the bus station (20,000 COP), truck or minivan to Villavieja (10,000 COP) and then a tuk-tuk

I recommend using Coomotor services to go from Bogota to Aipe or Neiva . They often have double-decker buses and if you can grab the seats upstairs at the front, you get a great view.

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend doing this journey from Bogota to Tatacoa Desert overnight as it’s only 5 hours to Aipe and 6 hours to Neiva . However, I would book a fairly early bus (10 am or before) to ensure you make the last services to Villavieja.

On the other hand, direct flights from Bogota to Neiva take 1 hour and prices start at 40 USD one way without check-in bags. However, given the time you’ll need to get to the airport, wait for your flight and then get to Neiva Bus Station, you probably won’t save too much time.

If you’re travelling via Aipe, read the section below on how to get from Aipe to Villavieja and the desert.

Likewise, if you’re travelling via Neiva either by bus or plane, read the section below on getting from Neiva to Tatacoa Desert and Villavieja.

How do I get from Salento to Tatacoa Desert?

With no direct buses from Salento to the Tatacoa Desert Colombia – or to Neiva, in fact. You’ll have to travel first to Armenia, then take a bus to Aipe or Neiva , followed by transport to Villavieja and the desert.

Buses are your only option as there’s no flights between Armenia and Neiva . So, when you’re ready to leave the charming town of Salento , the overland journey awaits.

Your two options are:

• Local bus to Armenia (6000 COP), bus from Armenia to Aipe (17 USD) , moto taxi to the river (6000 COP), ferry to Villavieja (4000 COP) and tuk-tuk to the desert – or,
• Local bus to Armenia (6000 COP), bus from Armenia to Neiva (18 USD) , truck or minivan to Villavieja (10,000 COP) and tuk-tuk to the desert

If you’re travelling via Aipe, remember, the last river crossing happens around 6 pm. So I recommend making sure you arrive in Aipe by 5.15 pm to allow for any queues at the crossing.

The bus from Armenia takes around 5.5 hours to reach Aipe and 6.5 hours to reach Neiva . Because of this, I don’t recommend travelling overnight (when journey times are even quicker) but rather get on the road early in the morning.

However, there’s only one daytime bus from Armenia so you may end up travelling overnight and arriving early. If you do this, I recommend travelling to Neiva as you’ll be able to stay in the bus station as the stop at Aipe is at the side of the road.

For more information on getting from Aipe and Neiva to Tatacoa Desert and Villavieja, read the sections below.

Aipe to Villavieja

Travelling via Aipe saves you heading an hour further south only to come back on yourself – taking another hour. However, it does require you to navigate a river crossing.

• Once you’re off the bus, grab a moto taxi to the river for 6000 COP. Moto taxis are often waiting but you can also ask in nearby cafes etc
• At the river, take the motorbike and passenger ‘ferry’ across to Villavieja for 4000 COP.

The ferry crossing between Aipe and Villavieja runs from 6 am to 6 pm . So, you need to make sure you’re arriving in Aipe by bus no later than 5.15 pm.

Neiva to Villavieja

The truck or minivan services from Neiva to Villavieja leave from inside the Terminal de Transport on the southern side of Neiva .

It’s a bit like a maze inside the terminal, but it’s not that big. So you’ll find the company going to Villavieja soon enough – just look at the signs above the ticket office windows – they’re near a door out to where the trucks and minivans park.

Tickets for the journey cost 10,000 COP per person – buy them at the bus station. And you’ll either have a seat in a minivan or enjoy a bumpy ride on benches in the back of a truck.

There didn’t seem to be set times and we set off when the truck/minivan was almost full. The journey from Neiva to Villavieja takes about 1.5 hours .

You can either get out at the end when it stops in the plaza or shout to get out sooner if you’re going past your hotel.

Villavieja to the Tatacoa Desert

If you’re continuing straight from Villavieja to the Tatacoa Desert, find a tuk-tuk and give them the name of your hotel.

The drivers have a list of all hotels and landmarks with set prices for each from Villavieja. Unfortunately, you can’t haggle here.

You’ll probably have the easiest time finding a driver by looking in the plaza or asking at a hotel reception desk for them to order you one.

Other Important Things to Know

• Don’t expect high-speed internet – this isn’t a place to work remotely. It’s the middle of nowhere, and I’m pretty sure it’s satellite internet so mostly good enough to check emails, read the news, etc.
• There’s no ATMs in the desert and only 1 in Villavieja . Bring plenty of cash – more than you think you need in case of an emergency or a change of plans.
• Rain in the Tatacoa Desert isn’t that unlikely and it makes life difficult – I speak from experience. When it rains, it pours. And as it’s soil, not sand, the ground soaks it all up and turns to thick, wet mud, making it hard to walk anywhere as you’re literally sinking!
• Unsurprising, there are so many bugs . If you have the light on in your room after dark, expect many to join you. And if you sit outside, expect to get bitten. In the evenings, cover up fully (I’m talking tuck your trousers into socks) and double up with insect repellent otherwise you’ll look like a polka dot human…

If you have any questions or want any more information, drop a comment below and I’ll get back to you!

Information is correct as of August 2023 but is subject to change in future.

Find your Colombia Travel Inspiration…

SANTANDER: San Gil Santander: Your Guide to Colombia’s Adventure Capital

MEDELLIN: Comuna 13 Medellín (Full Guide & Tour Recommendations)

LA GUAJIRA: Palomino, Colombia (Discover Santa Marta’s Trendier Neighbour)

SANTANDER: Chicamocha Canyon Complete Guide | Truly Spectacular!

BOGOTA: Cascada La Chorrera, Choachi: Colombia’s Tallest Waterfall

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01 Jan Travel Guide to Colombia’s Tatacoa Desert

Tatacoa Desert or Desierto de Tatacoa is one of the most unique destinations in Colombia. With a red-painted landscape and eroding canyons, it reminded me a lot of Bryce Canyon meets Badlands (for those familiar with U.S. national parks). It definitely wasn’t a place  I expected from Colombia which is known for its greenery and coffee farms.

But in this majestic dry land, you can wander through the canyons, gaze into the stars, practice landscape or astrophotography, and relax in a pool to escape the desert heat.

For the explorers and nature lovers, Tatacoa Desert is the perfect weekend getaway whether you’re living in Bogota or are a backpacker looking for an off-the-beaten path destination.

Learn about things to do in Tatacoa, how to get there, where to stay,  and my extra tips for visiting below:

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Things to do in Tatacoa Desert

How to get to there, where to stay, ways to get around, tour options, tips for visiting, solo travel in tatacoa desert, more resources for colombia travel.

*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.

Additionally, World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

THINGS TO DO IN IN TATACOA Desert

1. explore the red and gray desert.

There are two main areas to see, the red desert and the gray desert. In both, you can either explore on your own or hire a guide to learn about the history and geology of the landscape. I personally opted out of the tour because when it comes to nature I prefer to explore on my own.

But if you’d like, hiring a guide is about 30,000 COP  ≈  $7.50 USD per person.

If you choose to explore freely, know there isn’t really a main trail to follow, just get lost out there with a curious mind. But don’t actually get lost…it can be pretty vast especially in the gray desert so keep track of where you are with an offline map.

To get to the deserts, you’ll most likely need to hire a tuk tuk driver to take you around. You can read more on this below in How to Get Around , but my friend and I paid 50,000 COP  ≈  $12 USD each for our driver to drive us around the desert. Drivers know all the locations so you won’t need to worry about where to go. However, the entrances are also on Google Maps if needed.

2. Escape the heat and swim in a pool

Most hotels in the area will have a pool because of the heat. And trust me, after exploring the desert you’ll be extremely grateful for that! There’s also the pool open to the public at the entrance of the gray desert. The entrance fee is 8,000 COP  ≈  $2 USD.

3. Stargaze

Tatacoa is blessed with clear skies and little light pollution which makes it the perfect place to stargaze. I highly recommend heading to the Observatory and participating in guided stargazing. You’ll lay on a mat, stare at the stars and your guide will point out all the various constellations. Our guide spoke both English and Spanish and was hilarious, making it a really fun experience. This is only 10,000 COP per person  ≈  $2.50 USD.

4. Practice landscape and astrophotography

Because the landscape is so unique, this is a really fun place to take photos and get the creative juices flowing. It’s great for landscape photography, astrophotography, and portraits. When you visit, definitely don’t forget your camera and tripod, and if you have a drone – bring it! The texture from above will blow your mind.

HOW TO GET TO TATACOA DESERT

Tatacoa Desert is 45 km north of a city called Nieva. To visit the desert, you’ll first need to get to Nieva and then take a shuttle bus from there.

STEP 1A: Getting to Neiva from Cali

From Cali to Neiva you can either fly or a take a bus.

Like Medellin, most flights are not direct and involve a layover in Bogota. However, on some days there is a direct flight from Cali to Nieva with EasyFly. You can search for flights here.

Otherwise the bus is your next option. The bus from Cali to Neiva is about 11 hours or more so an overnight bus may be the best option. There are a number of companies to book through, you can easily  compare options on BusBud .

STEP 1B: Getting to Neiva from Bogota

It’s easiest to get to Tatacoa Desert from Bogota, so this is where I suggest coming from. You can either take a direct flight to Neiva or take a bus. 

The bus to Neiva is about 8 hours from the Bogota Bus Terminal. You can  reserve your bus ticket ahead of time on BusBud  or purchase at the terminal with Coomoter (the most frequent) or Rápido Tolima. Tickets should be around $15 USD.

STEP 1C: Getting to Neiva From Medellin:

There is no direct flight to Neiva from Medellin, so it’s a longer journey with 3 different options:

1. Take a flight to Bogota, have a layover and then fly to Neiva. Check flight prices here .

2. Take a bus all the way from Medellin to Neiva. It’s a long one, estimated to be about 17 hours and around $35 USD. You can check bus options here .

3. Fly to Bogota from Medellin and then take a bus to Neiva. I suggest finding  a cheap ticket with Skyscanner  which will be a short flight.  After landing at the Bogota airport take a taxi to the Bogota Bus Terminal.  You can  reserve your bus ticket ahead of time on BusBud  or purchase at the terminal with Coomoter (the most frequent) or Rápido Tolima. Tickets should be around $15 USD.

Personally, after doing it myself I don’t recommend coming from Medellin because it was a long trip. But if you’re based in Medellin (like I was) I recommend just flying the whole way.

STEP 2: Getting from Nieva to Villavieja/Tatacoa Desert:

If you’re arriving in Nieva by bus you’ll be in the right place; if arriving by air you’ll need to get a taxi to the Nieva Bus Terminal . At the terminal go to a Coomotor desk or any other (they’ll direct you to the right place) and purchase a ticket to Villavieja. It will be a collectivo/shuttle bus and take between 45 minutes – 2 hours depending on stops along the way. Ideally ask for a direct route if it’s available. One ticket should be 10,000 COP  ≈  $2.50 USD.

Want an easier trip?

If all this coordination seems to confusing and you’d rather not bother then there are other options to visit Tatacoa Desert

→ Book private transportation from Bogota to Tatacoa Desert

→ rent your own car in bogota and make a road trip of tatacoa, → take an all-inclusive tour for 2 days or 3 days  .

WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING TATACOA

Most stays for Tatacoa Desert will be in Villavieja and are for the most part pretty basic.

When I visited following COVID there were even fewer options so I stayed at Tubo Hotel , which was interesting…wouldn’t condemn it but also didn’t absolutely love it. It feels similar to a hostel with common areas outside, there are some shared bathrooms and a pool. However, no dorms, the rooms are all private and literally tubes. 

This tube theme is cool in theory, but because of the small size the “rooms” it can be crowded with two people.  My friend and I stayed in one together which was fine because we’re both small, but otherwise it would be a lot. For couples, I suggest the larger tube option with a private toilet. Thankfully though, all rooms have air con, a major bonus in the intense heat. 

Other good options for accommodation in Tatacoa Desert are Hotel Colonial Villavieja and Alojamiento Casa de Campo Los Cactus for the budget travelers.

WAYS TO GET AROUND tatacoa Desert

Walking: Being able to walk places will greatly depend on where you’re staying. You may be close enough to walk to either the observatory, one part of the desert (the entrance to the red and gray are not close to each other) or Villavieja depending on your hotel’s location.

Tuk tuk: Most likely this is how you’ll get around. From Tubo hostel, my friend and I hired a tuk tuk to take us around the desert by day and then later at night to pick us up again for stargazing at the observatory. To hire the tuk tuk for the day to the desert, we paid our driver 50,000 COP each (~ $12 USD). To get to the observatory at night, we paid our driver 20,000 COP each (~ $5 USD). If you’d like a tuk tuk, just ask your hotel front desk and they can call someone.

TIPS FOR VISITING

1. wear a lot of bug spray.

Truth be told, Tatacoa Desert was a mixed experience for my friend and I because we forgot our bug spray and within 1 hour in the desert our legs were covered in mosquito or fly bites that left a blood mark and then swelled up later. To avoid getting 100 bites per leg like me (literally, because I counted), please for the love of God remember to pack and wear  bug spray .

2. Explore in the morning or afternoon

To avoid the strength of the midday sun, either start your day early or in the afternoon. We started in the morning, finished exploring the desert by noon/1 PM and then soaked near the pool and napped before heading to the observatory at night.

For photographers, this is also good to avoid the harsh light of midday and have some shadows for depth.

3. Make sure to choose accomodation with air conditioned rooms

Don’t assume all rooms will have it, many don’t. So if that’s a necessity for you make sure to double check when booking accommodation .

4. Bring plenty of cash

Villavieja is a small town, and you may not even be staying there (if you chose a hotel in the desert). To avoid searching for an ATM just make sure to bring enough cash for the whole stay. Many hotels may accept credit cards, but you’ll definitely need to pay the collectivo bus, tuk tuk, and tours with cash.

5. Wear sunscreen or bring layers and hats to protect from sun

Like I said, the sun is really strong here so avoid getting burnt and protect your skin as much as possible.

→ Some of my picks:

6. Don’t forget your bathing suit

When packing, your mind may be on the desert instead of thinking of swimming, so don’t forget your bathing suit if you plan to swim.

7. Grab water and food in Villavieja

If you’re staying at a hotel in the desert, you may want to grab some water and snacks in Villavieja before getting a tuk tuk to your hotel. Because many of those hotels are secluded, water can be overpriced there.

At Tubo hotel, everything was normally priced and Villavieja is walking distance so no worries there.

SOLO TRAVEL IN TATACOA DESERT

Full disclaimer, although I’m usually a solo traveler myself, I did not go to Tatacoa Desert alone. Sara, my good friend and roommate living with me in Medellin came with me.

However, since I travel solo often, I feel I can offer some perspective here.

Solo travel to Tatacoa Desert is possible for sure. It can see it being a lot to navigate getting there for a new solo traveler, but it’s doable and as far as I could tell it’s a safe area. Like always though, I suggest practicing basic safety precautions when traveling alone.

That being said, I’m not sure it’s an ideal place for solo travel. I say this because it may be more difficult to meet people here just because it’s a small town, it’s off the beaten path, and there’s not a big hostel. 

Which doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t go alone. Only that unlike other destinations where you can meet other travelers to explore with, at Tatacoa that’s unlikely and you may feel very secluded there. If you’re okay with that though, then go for it!

For questions or if you found this blog helpful, leave a comment below. And enjoy your trip to Desierto de Tatacoa!

More Resources for Your Trip to Colombia

Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Colombia along with some recommendations:

If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others,  Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability ! 

• Medellin: Hostel Rango Boutique OR Los Patios
• Cartagena: Life is Good Hostel  
• Santa Marta: Viajero
• Minca: Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge OR Masaya Casas Viejas
• Salento: Coffee Tree Boutique
• Bogota: Cranky Croc Hostel
• Cali: Viajero Hostel & Salsa School
• Palomino: Casa Chapolin

Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Colombia because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays.

Flights to Colombia  from the U.S. are typically the most affordable in South America to Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, or Cali.  Domestic flights within Colombia also tend to be pretty affordable especially if traveling light. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner . 

The easiest way to search for and book buses in Colombia is with BusBud where you can easily compare options and use a platform in English. Check it out here . 

Travel insurance is a must for every trip, especially when coming to a destination like Colombia where you may be doing adventurous activities, taking a lot of buses, and theft is a higher risk. Make sure you’re covered!

My go to travel insurance is always WorldNomads which is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here . 

If you’re a digital nomad looking for travel medical emergency insurance, I also suggest Safety Wing . 

Tours & Experiences

There’s a lot of free thing to do in Colombia or experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours though like a boat tour of Rosario Islands , a day trip to Guatape from Medellin, or a trek to the Lost City  then I suggest checking on GetYourGuide & Viator . 

Know Before You Go

Check out my Colombia Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.

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Tatacoa Desert : Travel guide

The Tatacoa Desert is located in the North of the Huila department. It is the second most arid area in Colombia.

The Tatacoa Desert is an ideal place to visit for astronomy and paleontology enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers and anyone looking to stargaze in Colombia.

If you recognize yourself in one of these categories, you are in the right place. Here you will learn everything there is to know about the Tatacoa Desert.

In this article, our team of experts will cover a range of topics such as: when to go, how long to stay and what to bring; so that you have all the information you need to plan the best trip possible!

The Tatacoa desert in a few words

Located in the north of the department of Huila – about 50 km from the department’s capital, Neiva – the Tatacoa desert is the second driest area in Colombia (just after the La Guajira desert, located at the northern end of the country). Although technically speaking, it is important to note that Tatacoa is actually a tropical dry forest, not a desert. Its weather conditions and lack of air pollution and human intervention allow for some of the best stargazing in the country, and some of the best in the world. The Tatacoa Desert is located between two mountain ranges (including the peaks of the Nevado de Huila (5750 km)) which absorb all the moisture in the region and result in such a dry and vegetation-free area. Due to its geological conditions, it has also become a place of great paleontological interest.

When the Spanish conquistador Juan Alonso followed the Magdalena River in his quest for El Dorado, he came to the Tatacoa Desert and called it the Valle de Tristezas (“Valley of Sorrows”). The desert was later named Tatacoa in honor of a rattlesnake that is said to survive all conditions.

When to visit the Tatacoa Desert?

The climate  in the Tatacoa region is fairly constant, so it is possible to visit at any time. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you can expect a lot of heat.

Tip: The driest months are June, July and August . This can ensure clearer skies for stargazing .

How to get to the Tatacoa desert?

Transportation to the Tatacoa Desert is readily available. In general, to get there, you have to go through the capital of the department of Huila, Neiva. Here are some options you can take:

BY AIR: 30 minute flight from Bogota to Neiva BY LAND: 5 hours travel time from Bogota to Neiva, or 45 minutes from Neiva to Villavieja. From Villavieja to the desert : 15 minutes.

Note : Motorcycle taxis will take you from Villavieja to the desert.

How long to stay in the Tatacoa desert?

We generally recommend staying one night and two days in the Tatacoa Desert, although some people choose to stay up to four days.

Equipment needed to visit the Tatacoa Desert

Although the desert is very hot during the day (temperatures can reach 40°C), at night the weather tends to drop to 13°C. That said, make sure you have good walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat for the day, and several layers of clothing and a torch for the night. And don’t forget to bring and drink plenty of water!

Don’t bring your computer as wifi and electricity are limited. But that’s why you’re going to a desert, right?

What are the cultural events and festivals in the Tatacoa desert?

Two remarkable events take place in the Tatacoa Desert:

El Festival Astronómico de La Tatacoa (the “Astronomical Festival of La Tatacoa”), which takes place from 17 to 20 August, is an excellent opportunity to learn about astronomy and to meet in an academic setting among the stars. Astronomers, lecturers, students and interested travellers gather from around the world to celebrate and discuss the stars. It is also a great event for families.

Over the past two years, the electronic music festival called   Festival Tatacoa has grown in popularity and takes place in mid-October. This oasis of techno and house music is sponsored by Bogotá-based BAUM.

Accommodation in the Tatacoa desert

Hotels, hostels and designated camping areas are all options in the desert. Although you can stay in the nearby town of Villavieja, just 10km from the desert, we recommend staying in the desert itself.

Here is what you can choose:

• Camping: You can camp in the desert, near the observatory or in another designated camping area.
• Simple hotel : For the budget-conscious, there are many modest hotels with hammocks and pools.

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Tatacoa Desert: A Remarkable Hidden Gem in Colombia

The Tatacoa Desert, or Desierto de la Tatacoa, is a hidden gem in Colombia’s Huila department that promises an adventure for those willing to stray from conventional tourist paths. This remarkable destination is more than just a desert; it’s a unique experience, and, for now,  still away from the well-known Gringo Trail. This post will guide you through everything you need to know to plan your visit: how to reach the Tatacoa Desert, where to stay, and the top activities to participate in! 

The Tatacoa Desert

Tatacoa Desert near the small town of Villavieja in Colombia , South America

The Tatacoa Desert is a stunning and lesser-known natural sight in Colombia that offers an exceptional experience for those seeking unique adventures.

Contrary to a typical desert, Tatacoa astonishes with its beautiful red and grey landscapes which is a result of its geological history as a dry tropical forest. At Tatacoa, you can witness extraordinary soil formations, diverse in color and shape, that remind a bit of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain.

As a traveler to Tatacoa, you are treated to a surreal environment, where winding trails lead through natural labyrinths and expose an array of cacti and local wildlife, including goats and birds.

The desert’s raw beauty can also be admired at night, as it becomes a great place for stargazing. Because of its clear, pollution-free skies, it offers a chance to explore out galaxy by visiting one of the astronomical observatories you can find in the desert.

Best Things to do in the Tatacoa desert

The red Cuzco Tatacoa desert

The Tatacoa Desert is a mesmerizing landscape and there are various things you can do here! Here are the main highlights of what you can do in the Tatacoa Desert.

The red tatacoa desert (Cuzco desert)

The Red Desert area of Tatacoa is known for its deep red soil and feels a bit like setting foot on Mars. A walk through this part of the desert is really like being on another planet for a moment! The iron oxide in the soil gives it its unique coloration and creates a rare and dramatic landscape.

Hiking through this area, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations and canyons that offer perfect opportunities for photography and exploration.

The Red Desert, also called the Cuzco Desert is free to visit. That said, it isn’t entirely clear when you arrive without a tour where “the entrance” to the desert actually is. 

The best starting point for exploring the Red Desert is this location on Google Maps . The panaroma view over the desert from this point is lovely and there is a walking trail down to explore the trails. 

According to the locals, there are actually four different trails to explore at the Red Desert but we found it very difficult to know what trail we were actually on. There seems to be some signage (we saw poles with a yellow color) but it’s not consistent. 

you have to make sure you don’t get lost while wandering the trails and note that cell phone signal is wanky here. The best way to orientate yourself is to download Maps.me. That way, you can always find your way back to the main road.

The grey desert (Los Hoyos)

The grey Tatacoa desert (Los Hoyos)

Contrasting with the Red Desert, the Grey Desert area is another integral part of Tatacoa’s diverse landscape. This area is characterized by greyish, moon-like terrain, formed by sedimentary rocks and clay.

It’s a quieter part of the desert, where you can wander through the labyrinth of cacti and enjoy the serene beauty of this less-visited area. The Grey Desert’s unique topography makes it an excellent spot for those looking for a tranquil escape into nature.

There is only one walking trail in de grey desert. You first have to make your way down to Los Hoyos Piscina Natural and you will see a trail that start on the right of the swimming pool.

Don’t worry about wondering into the swimming area without paying the entrance fee. They won’t charge you if you don’t use the swimming pool.

The route you can walk in the grey desert is a small loop. It takes about half an hour to walk the loop and the end point is back on the top of the way to the swimming pool.

I assume it used to be possible to walk further into the desert but, at the time of my visit, the pathway was closed down with wired fencing. 

→ Did you know? There’s another park in Colombia that resembles the grey Tatacoa Desert? It is called Los Estoraques Unique Natural Area !

Los Hoyos piscina mineral

Los Hoyos, the grey part of the Tatacoa desert has, aside from it moon-like landscape, another unique feature: an outdoor swimming pool, known as “Piscina Mineral.”

This pool is filled with natural groundwater, adding a refreshing element to the desert’s rugged environment. It is owned and managed by the shepherd families that have been living and roaming in this area for centuries tending to their goats and cattle. 

Los Hoyos mineral pool is a great spot to visit for anyone exploring the Tatacoa Desert and a welcome place to cool down after a hike. When visiting, you can expect to pay a small entry fee upon arrival. We paid 10.000 COP per person (December 2023).

The venue also offers facilities like showers and the option to purchase drinks and snacks. Do note that, while the pool may look impressive in photos, it is very much a local affair. Don’t expect a luxury pool.

Visit an observatory

There are several astronomical observatories in the desert that you can visit during the evening. There is not much light pollution in the Tatacoa desert which makes it an ideal place for stargazing.

According to information online, there should be one that also gives a lecture about the desert and the stars in English but it didn’t seem to be running at the time of our visit. 

Lectures start at 7 PM. and you will first be taken to an open ground space where you will be asked to lie down. The lecturer will start with a short introduction about the galaxy and several things you can see before directing you to four telescopes through which you can watch Saturn, the Pleiads, Jupiter, and Andromeda.

Even though it’s hard to understand the lecture when you don’t speak much Spanish, it’s a very special experience to be lying in a desert watching the stars. The entrance fee is 10.000 COP per person.

Do note that, if you already know a lot about the galaxy, this activity might not be for you. While you can see something through the telescopes, like the ring around Saturn, they are not incredibly strong and you cannot compare this to professional observatories in the world like the La Silla Observatory in Chile or the Maunakea Observatory in Hawaii. 

We watched the stars at the Astronomical Observatory Astrosur .

How many days should you spend in the Tatacoa desert

The ideal length of stay in the Tatacoa Desert largely depends on your interests and the range of activities you plan to engage in. For most travelers who have a bucket list to work through, a stay of 2 to 3 days is usually recommended to fully experience what the desert has to offer.

Remember to take into account the travel time you need to get to and from the desert when planning your itinerary. The remote location requires a significant portion of a day to reach, depending on your starting point. We spent the whole day on the bus to reach Villavieja from Bogota.

While most travelers only hang around for one or two days, as a slow traveler , it is worth it to stay a bit longer and explore other sights in the area like the cute town of Villavieja and Piscilodo, a natural mud bath and mineral pool.

THE BEST TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR COLOMBIA SOUTH AMERICA

Here are the websites I use when I travel to Colombia:

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com : For the best guesthouses, homestays, or small hotels

Hostelworld : To find the best hostels located in the cities

Homestay : For a unique immersive homestay experience in the big cities or the countryside

Busbud and Redbus : The best transport websites for long-distance buses in Colombia. Note that 12Go also works in Colombia but the tickets they will buy for you are open-seat tickets and don’t guarantee a seat on the bus you book online.

Uber : Uber is a convenient and cheap ride-hailing app that can be used in the bigger cities of Colombia. Other apps are Cabify or Didi .

Skyscanner : For affordable flights to Bogota and intercity flights in the country.

Viator and Get Your Guide : book all kinds of activities from the Ciudad Perdida trek to a guided private tour of Comuna 13 in Medellin.

Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, do not require a visa for short tourist stays (typically up to 90 days). However, this can vary, so it’s always best to check iVisa for the specific requirements for your nationality.

If you’re looking for travel insurance, the one with the best benefits online is undoubtedly Heymondo ! It’s very easy to ask for a quote on the website and, if you book with this link you’ll get 5% off!

Access mobile data immediately when entering the country with a Colombian E-sim or a Latamlink E-sim when traveling through multiple countries. If you are already in Colombia, the best local prepaid sim card is Claro.

Tatacoa desert weather

The Tatacoa Desert has a hot, arid climate similar to that of an official desert. The temperatures in the Tatacoa Desert are consistently high throughout the year and daytime temperatures range between 28°C to 40°C (82°F to 104°F).

When planning a trip to the Tatacoa Desert, it’s important to prepare for the heat. It was my first destination in Colombia after landing in Bogota and, even though I knew I was going to a desert-like area, I was not prepared to spend my days in temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Celcius.

Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen for protection against the sun. Staying hydrated is crucial in this environment, so carry plenty of water. sunglasses are also an absolute must. It felt like the sun was brighter here than in other places and my eyes started to tear up easily.

How to get to the Tatacoa Desert

The Tatacoa Desert lies far away from most popular places in Colombia so it will take a while to get there no matter where you are coming from, except when you decide to take a plane.

Here is how to reach the Tatacoa Desert from Bogota, Medellin and Salento.

How to get to the tatacoa desert from Bogota

There are direct bus services from Bogota to Neiva , the capital of the Huila department and the closest major city to the Tatacoa Desert. The bus journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours and once in Neiva, you can take a local bus or taxi to the desert, which is about one hour to an hour and a half away.

Another option is to fly from Bogota to Neiva. The flight takes about an hour, and from Neiva’s airport, you can hire a taxi or take a small van to the desert.

Ask around at the transport terminal in Neiva where the ticket booth for Villavieja and Tatacoa is located. It is managed by Coomotor but is not that easy to find.

How to Get to the Tatacoa desert from Medellin

You can take a bus from Medellin to Neiva. The bus journey is around 10 to 12 hours. After reaching Neiva, you can continue to the Tatacoa Desert by local bus which costs 10.000 COP or by taxi.

Flying is the quickest but not the most sustainable option. Flights from Medellín to Neiva take about an hour. After landing, take a taxi to the desert or make your way to the transport terminal in the city to grab a minivan.

Busbud is a good choice to book bus tickets from Medellin to Neiva online. Both daytime buses as well as night buses are on offer. 

How to get to the tatacoa desert from Salento

There is no direct bus service from Salento to Neiva. You first need to travel to Armenia or Pereira, and from there, take a bus to Neiva. The total journey can take around 8 to 10 hours. Once in Neiva, you can take a local bus or taxi to the Tatacoa Desert.

Depending on your hour of departure, it is possible you will miss the last minivan to the desert and you will have to stay overnight in Neiva.

where to stay in the Tatacoa desert

There is no shortage of great places to stay in the Tatacoa Desert or the nearby town of Villavieja .

Knowing what I know now after visiting this wonderful place, I think the perfect way to make the most out of your days in the area is to stay for a few nights in Villavieja itself to get to know the town and the local culture with an additional two nights at an eco-accommodation in the desert. 

Here are my recommendations for Villavieja and the Tatacoa desert:

• Biohotel Tatacoa Qji : This Biohotel and campground is the perfect place in the desert from which to start your expeditions into the wonderland that is Tatacoa.
• El Penon de Constantino : for a little bit more comfort and luxury, consider staying at this accommodation that is located right by the red Tatacoa desert. 
• Hostal Arambulo : This budget guesthouse is owned by a local woman, Matilda, who takes care of you like a loving Colombian mother. The rooms are small but clean and it is one of the few budget places in town where you have an outside area where you can spend time in between sightseeing.
• Tatacoa Star Eco Hotel : This mid-range hotel offers bamboo-style rooms with a tree in the middle of an indoor patio. The breakfast they serve on the terrace is perfect for a slow morning.

How to get around the Tatacoa desert

If you want to organize your travels into the Tatacoa desert independently, there are various transport options to choose from. 

The best way to explore the desert is by hiring a tuk-tuk for the day or a motorbike. There are also bicycles on offer but, considering the hot climate of the Tatacoa desert, this is not the best option to go for during the middle of the day. 

Tuk-tuks can drive you around the Tatacoa Desert

We rented bicycles for a half-day tour to the Red Desert and Piscilodo from Villavieja. During the morning, between 6 A.M. and 9 A.M. the weather is still manageable to ride a bicycle on the hilly roads but after that, the sun is simply too strong.

Moreover, while the road from Villavieja to the Red Tatacoa Desert is paved, the road from the Red Desert to the Grey Desert and Los Hoyos swimming pool is not, and neither is the road to Piscilodo. Shortly, while cycling is a great option in terms of sustainability, in my opinion, it’s not the best choice in the Tatacoa Desert.

If you are staying in an accommodation between the red and grey desert, however, the distance to explore the sights is manageable on foot.

Are there tours going to the tatacoa desert?

Yes, tours are going to the Tatacoa Desert. Every accommodation in Villavieja offers the same tours and they are all equally priced. A full-day tour of all the main sights costs 120.000 COP and it is what most travelers go for.

Of course, this means that you will need to make your way to the Tatacoa Desert independently. If you want to save yourself some hassle and go on a tour starting from another place in Colombia, tour options are available from Bogota and Neiva.

Red Tatacoa desert, Colombia

Tocayá Natura is a group of young people that offer day trips into the Tatacoa Desert starting from Neiva. It includes all the sights mentioned above including a visit to an observatory in the evening. you can book a day tour to Tatacoa from Neiva here !

From Bogota, several organized trips are going to the Tatacoa Desert. They are mostly private tours that include transportation and a two-night stay near the Tatacoa Desert. Here are a few tour options to have a look at:

• Private tour of the Tatacoa Desert from Bogota
• 2-Day Private Tour to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogota

where to eat in the Tatacoa desert

If you are a vegetarian or vegan in Colombia, you won’t have any trouble finding decent vegan food in Villavieja. There are a few tourist restaurants (Salsipuedes and Costa Azul) at the main square where you can get vegan pasta, rice, and burgers and you can also ask for a vegan burger at Planta Brew Pub. 

If you are a conscious traveler who is rather looking for authentic Colombian cuisine, consider going to La Llanerita . They can cater easily to vegans for lunch and you will get a delicious plate with rice, salad, beans, and vegetables for only 9000 COP.

When traveling through the desert, most accommodation options on the road will serve you lunch or dinner but do note that vegan options might be scarce and limited to rice and beans.

More tips for visiting the tatacoa desert

Here are a few more tips to help you plan your trip to the Tatacoa desert!

• Wear lightweight and breathable Clothing : Fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials are ideal and long sleeves and pants can protect you from the sun. don’t just wear a sports bra because it’s hot. The sun will grill you, even when you put on SPF 50 (trust me).
• Sun Protection : A cap or hat is essential to shield your face and neck from the sun. Sunglasses with UV protection are also important to protect your eyes. I like the sustainable sunglasses from Sunski .
• Comfortable Footwear : Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking or hiking on uneven terrain. Closed-toe shoes are preferable to protect your feet from the rough ground and any sharp plants (and snakes and scorpions!).
• Sunscreen : High-SPF sunscreen is a must to protect your skin from the strong desert sun. Reapply it regularly, especially if you are sweating or after swimming in the Piscina Natural of Los Hoyos. My favorite reef-safe brand is Sun Bum . 
• Swimwear : If you plan to visit Los Hoyos Piscina, don’t forget your swimwear .
• Backpack : A small backpack is handy for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, and other essentials during your explorations. My companion is the sustainable day pack mini from Wayks .
• Water Bottle : Staying hydrated is crucial in the desert. Carry a refillable water bottle to ensure you have enough water throughout the day and preferably one that keeps the water cool. I’m a big fan of Klean Kanteen . 

Tatacoa desert: FAQ

Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to the Tatacoa Desert!

Is it worth going to Tatacoa desert?

Visiting the Tatacoa Desert can be a highly rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy unique natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and a sense of adventure. The desert offers a unique landscape with its red and grey terrains, making it a photographer’s paradise.

What do you wear to the Tatacoa desert?

Dressing appropriately for the Tatacoa Desert is crucial for comfort and safety due to its hot, arid climate. Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothes that allow your skin to breathe.

Is the Tatacoa desert safe?

The Tatacoa Desert, like many tourist destinations, is considered safe for travelers, but it’s important to take certain precautions like protecting yourself from the heat and being aware of the environment and wildlife. Be mindful of where you put your hands and feet as snakes, spiders, and scorpions can hide in trees or behind rocks.

Tatacoa desert: Final thoughts

There you go! I hope you enjoyed this Tatacoa Desert travel guide. For now, the Tatacoa Desert remains a hidden gem and let’s hope it stays that way!

A great next stop on your Colombia itinerary after the Tatacoa Desert is the enchanting town of San Agustin . Here you can marvel at the sculptures of an ancient culture that inhabited this part of the country between the 1st and 8th century at the San Agustin Archaeological Park . 

Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or drop me a message through my contact page . 

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Colombia travel advice?

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• December 17, 2023

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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and  yourself!

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Tatacoa Desert and Natural Sanctuary Tour from Neiva

• Private transportation
• Traditional lunch from Huila. a protein, Meat, chicken or beef, A Flour: rice or potato, Salad and Drink
• Travel insurance
• Entry/Admission - Neiva
• Entry/Admission - Villavieja
• Entry/Admission - Desierto de la Tatacoa
• Entry and Use of the Hoyos or Natural Pool. Value 10 thousand pesos
• Entrance to the Observatory. Value 10 thousand pesos
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 backpackers & travelers hostal neiva - desierto de la tatacoa Stop: 10 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Villavieja Stop: 70 minutes See details
• 3 Puerto Fluvial Malecon Ferri motos Stop: 20 minutes - Admission included See details
• 4 Desierto de la Tatacoa Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 5 Valle De Los Xilópalos Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• 6 Valle De Los Xilópalos Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 7 Piscina Mineral Stop: 2 hours - Admission excluded See details
• 8 Desierto Rojo Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• 9 Las Ventanas Mirador Stop: 45 minutes - Admission included See details
• 10 Astronomical Observatory Astrosur Stop: 3 hours - Admission excluded See details

More to explore in Neiva

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Tatacoa Desert and Natural Sanctuary Tour from Neiva provided by Backpackers Neiva

Neiva: Guided Day Trip to the Tatacoa Desert

Set out on a captivating journey to the enchanting Tatacoa Desert with a guided day trip from Neiva. Nestled in the heart of Colombia, this desert destination offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness.

The trip promises not only a scenic adventure but also a chance to take in the local traditions and history. As travelers traverse the arid landscape, they encounter a tapestry of colors and shapes that paint a vibrant picture of the desert’s allure.

Stay tuned to discover what awaits in this mesmerizing desert oasis.

• Immerse in Huilense culture & explore Colombia’s largest desert with a knowledgeable guide
• Enjoy a relaxing day trip visiting Villavieja, the Paleontological Museum , and key desert landmarks
• Experience optional activities like swimming & stargazing in Tatacoa Desert
• Benefit from convenient hotel pick-up, transportation , and a well-rounded tour itinerary

Trip Overview

Set out on a captivating journey through the Tatacoa Desert with a full-day guided tour that promises an immersive experience into Colombia’s largest desert landscape and Huilense culture. Desert exploration enthusiasts will explore the secrets of this vast expanse while seeing the rich Huilense culture.

The tour offers a unique opportunity for culture, allowing visitors to learn about local traditions and history. As participants traverse through the desert’s key points, they’ll uncover the beauty and mysteries hidden within its arid terrain.

This experience isn’t just a mere exploration of the desert but a deep dive into the soul of the region, providing a comprehensive understanding of both the landscape and the people who call it home.

Activity Details

Visitors on the guided day trip to the Tatacoa Desert can expect a comprehensive 12-hour experience that includes exploring key desert landmarks, learning about Huilense culture, and enjoying optional activities like swimming and stargazing. The day’s activities are designed to offer cultural insights and opportunities for landscape exploration.

• Engage in guided tours of desert landmarks
• Learn about the rich Huilense culture
• Enjoy swimming in designated areas
• Experience stargazing sessions under the desert sky

Experience Highlights

During this guided day trip to the Tatacoa Desert, travelers can anticipate seeing the secrets of Colombia’s largest desert while relaxing in a popular destination in the country.

Cultural exploration awaits as visitors learn about the Huilense culture and uncover the desert’s hidden treasures. The shared tour includes a visit to Villavieja and the Paleontological Museum , offering insights into the region’s history.

For those seeking relaxation activities , the full-day itinerary features various desert landmarks and optional experiences like swimming and stargazing.

This excursion provides a perfect blend of adventure and leisure, allowing guests to explore the desert’s mysteries while enjoying the serene surroundings of this renowned destination in Colombia.

The guided day trip to the Tatacoa Desert includes pick up and return to the hotel, transportation to the desert, a guided visit to Villavieja and the Paleontological Museum, and a tour through key points of the Tatacoa Desert.

Transportation Details : The trip provides comfortable transportation to and from the desert, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

Expert Tour Guide: Visitors benefit from the knowledge and expertise of a seasoned tour guide throughout the excursion.

Villavieja and Museum Visit: Explore the cultural and historical aspects of Villavieja and explore the fascinating exhibits at the Paleontological Museum.

Desert Exploration: Enjoy a comprehensive tour of the Tatacoa Desert, visiting significant landmarks and learning about its unique ecosystem.

Customer Reviews

What do customers appreciate most about their experience on the guided day trip to the Tatacoa Desert?

Visitors highly value the guide’s language skills , especially for English speakers, ensuring a smooth and informative journey.

The stunning landscape beauty of the desert leaves a lasting impression on travelers, with many mentioning the breathtaking views as a highlight of the tour.

Plus, reviews often praise the quality of the provided lunch, adding to the overall positive experience.

It’s noted that for activities like the astronomical observatory, Spanish proficiency might be necessary, a detail that some reviewers found important to highlight.

Review Summary

In the review summary, customers consistently praise the transportation service with a top rating of 5/5 for its efficiency and comfort. The guide’s language proficiency is highlighted, ensuring an enjoyable and informative experience for English speakers.

Plus, the quality of lunch provided during the tour receives positive feedback, enhancing the overall trip experience. The review from a customer from Germany emphasizes the guide’s expertise and the tour’s highlights, contributing to the positive ratings received.

On top of that, the breathtaking desert landscape is mentioned as a standout feature, captivating visitors with its beauty.

• Efficient and comfortable transportation service
• Guide’s excellent language skills
• High-quality lunch experience
• Positive feedback on tour highlights and desert beauty

Navigating to the Tatacoa Desert is straightforward, with clear signage directing travelers from the main road to the entrance of this expansive natural wonder.

Once inside, visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna unique to this arid region. The desert offers a surreal landscape of red and gray hues, providing an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

As the sun sets, the Tatacoa Desert transforms into an ideal location for a mesmerizing stargazing experience. The absence of light pollution allows for a clear view of the night sky, making it a perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and adventure.

Booking Information

When considering booking for the guided day trip to the Tatacoa Desert, travelers can reserve their spot up to 24 hours in advance to secure their place on this immersive experience.

Travel Tips

Reserve now & pay later for flexibility

Check availability for different starting times

Ensure to have Spanish proficiency for certain activities

Pack sunscreen, water , and comfortable clothing

Cultural Insights

Gain knowledge about the Huilense culture

Explore Colombia’s largest desert secrets

Engage in local activities like swimming and stargazing

Visit Villavieja and the Paleontological Museum for historical context

Common questions

Are there any specific clothing or gear recommendations for visiting the tatacoa desert.

When visiting the Tatacoa Desert, it’s advisable to wear light, breathable clothing , comfortable footwear , a hat , and sunglasses for sun protection. Essential gear includes sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a camera for capturing the stunning landscapes.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participating in the Guided Tour to the Tatacoa Desert?

There is no minimum age requirement for participating in the guided tour to the Tatacoa Desert. Safety measures are in place to ensure a family-friendly experience. The tour duration is 12 hours, offering a comprehensive exploration.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Drone Usage in the Desert Area?

Sunset photography in Tatacoa Desert is allowed, but visitors must comply with drone regulations. The stunning landscape views offer ample opportunities for capturing the scenery with camera equipment . Respect for the environment is key.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Snacks or Drinks for the Day Trip?

Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks for the day trip to Tatacoa Desert, catering to personal preferences . This enhances the tour experience , ensuring comfort and enjoyment during the 12-hour adventure.

Is There a Restroom Facility Available During the Tour of the Tatacoa Desert?

Restroom facilities are available during the Tatacoa Desert tour. Participants can also find hydration options to stay refreshed throughout the day. These amenities ensure comfort and convenience for visitors exploring the desert’s wonders.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Discover the Tatacoa Desert With a Local
• Tatacoa and Doche Desert Adventure Tour
• Neiva to or From Villavieja Private Transfer
• The Best City Tour Neiva
• Neiva: Benito Salas Airport One Way Transfer
• Adventure to El Fraile, Canyon of Idols, and Chicalá: Trail and Rappelling
• Tatacoa Desert and Villavieja 3-Day Tour

Set out on an unforgettable journey to the Tatacoa Desert with a guided day trip from Neiva. Enjoy the vibrant Huilense culture, explore desert landmarks , and indulge in optional activities like swimming and stargazing.

With convenient amenities and a seamless itinerary, this excursion promises a day filled with adventure and discovery. Book now and uncover the hidden gems of Colombia’s largest desert on this captivating guided tour.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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