Tatacoa Desert
Colombia · Huila · 440 m
Description
The Tatacoa Desert (Desierto de la Tatacoa) is a fascinating semi-arid landscape in Colombia’s Huila Department, known for its bizarre, erosion-sculpted canyons and rock formations in vivid shades of red, ochre, and grey. Despite its name, Tatacoa is not a true desert but a semi-arid region with a rich fossil history and extraordinary natural scenery. Particularly striking are the rust-red labyrinth of the Cuzco sector and the pale-grey formations of Los Hoyos, both of which can be explored on foot. Thanks to low levels of light pollution, Tatacoa is also one of Colombia’s best-known destinations for stargazing and an exceptional place for nature lovers, photographers, and astronomy enthusiasts.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: July – August or December – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Cuzco Red Desert & Canyon Labyrinth
- Los Hoyos Grey Desert
- Tatacoa Astronomical Observatory & Stargazing
- Sunrise & Sunset over the Tatacoa Badlands
- Valle de los Xilópalos
- Tatacoa Desert Hiking Trails
- Natural Pool in Los Hoyos
- Tatacoa Paleontological Heritage
- La Tatacoa Natural History Museum
- Villavieja & Paleontological Museum
- Cactus & Tropical Dry-Forest Landscape
- Desert Wildlife
- Tatacoa Star Party
Getting there
- Airports:
- NVA