Lake La Cocha

Laguna de la Cocha

Colombia's largest highland lake situated at 2,737 meters elevation, La Cocha is a stunning natural wonder surrounded by cloud forests and Andean peaks. Visitors can boat to secluded islands, enjoy fresh trout fishing, or hike scenic trails through pristine mountain terrain.

Things to do

• Island of Corota Visit — Take a boat tour to Isla de Corota, a small forested island in the lake's center where you can hike trails and spot endemic birds and vegetation.
• Trout Fishing — Fish for rainbow and brown trout in the lake's cold, pristine waters, either from shore or via boat with local guides who know the best spots.
• Cloud Forest Hiking — Trek through surrounding cloud forests on established trails to experience endemic flora, mossy trees, and mountain vistas at high altitude.
• Sunset Boat Cruise — Embark on an evening boat ride across the lake to witness the Andean peaks turn golden as the sun sets over the water.
• El Encano Waterfront Walk — Stroll through the village of El Encano along the lake shore, visiting artisan shops and enjoying views of the water and surrounding mountains.
• Photography of Andean Peaks — Capture stunning images of snow-capped peaks reflected in the lake, especially during early morning when mist rises from the water.

Food to try

• Fresh Lake Trout (Trucha a la Mantequilla) — Local freshly-caught trout pan-fried in butter with lemon, a specialty at lakeside restaurants that showcases the lake's bounty.
• Ajiaco Nariñense — A hearty regional potato soup made with local Nariño potatoes, corn, chicken, and cream, perfect for warming up after high-altitude activities.
• Empanadas de Queso y Papa — Deep-fried pastries filled with local cheese and potatoes, sold at El Encano's market stalls and village shops as a traditional highland snack.
• Freshwater Fish Ceviche — A regional take on ceviche using locally-caught trout or bass cured in lime juice with cilantro and local chilies, served at waterfront eateries.
• Corn Arepa with Local Cheese — Thick grilled corn cakes filled with fresh cheese from highland dairy farms, a staple breakfast and lunch item throughout the region.

Local customs & good to know

• Altitude Acclimatization — At 2,737 meters elevation, take your first day easy, drink plenty of water, and avoid heavy activity to prevent soroche (altitude sickness).
• Local Boat Guide Etiquette — Hire local boatmen through your accommodation or El Encano's cooperative rather than independent operators to support community livelihoods and ensure safety.
• Weather Preparedness — Pack layered clothing and a rain jacket year-round, as cloud forest conditions change rapidly and temperatures can drop significantly even midday.
• Spanish Language Advantage — Most locals speak Spanish rather than English; learning basic phrases helps with fishing guides, boat operators, and small village interactions.