In 1938 the construction of the La Regadera reservoir in Usme was completed. La Regadera is a water reserve that receives the rivers Chisacá, Lechoso and Curubital. The surroundings of the reservoir are full of beautiful wooded areas, decorated with different species of vegetation, this area is classified as high Andean forest, however, pine trees introduced to Colombia predominate. The reservoir has a capacity of 4 million cubic meters and a total area of 167 square kilometers. It is the ideal place for ecotourism in Bogotá.
HOW TO GET TO LA REGADERA, USME?
La Regadera Reservoir is located in the town of Usme in Bogotá, approximately 22 kilometers from downtown Usme on the road to Sumapaz. A journey of about an hour in which you can see the local farms and their beautiful and colorful crops of potatoes and peas. To get to La Regadera Reservoir you must get to the central square of Usme Pueblo, there you will find the buses to El Hato – La Regadera. You must get off right at the entrance to the reservoir, and from there it is a 30 minute walk to the reservoir.
GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE IN LA REGADERA
This wonderful place is located at about 2900 meters above sea level, in a subparamo zone at approximately 11°C of temperature. If you are going to visit La Regadera reservoir, it is recommended that you bring warm and comfortable clothes and shoes for hikking. In spite of the temperature of the area, it is advisable to take sunscreen.
ATTRACTIONS IN LA REGADERA
La Regadera is a destination that is not only beautiful but also economical. It is a permanent encounter with nature. As it is a seldom visited destination, the reservoir is full of a tranquility that can be breathed by the 167 square kilometers it has to travel. It is the ideal place to take a break from the noise and pollution of the city.
The forest is full of native plants, pines and mushrooms that paint the surroundings of the reservoir with colors. You will be able to walk around the immense forest and marvel at the charming landscape it offers. It is important to clarify that the reservoir is a private property of the Acueducto de Bogota, therefore, you must ask permission from the security guards to enter. Sometimes, the Institute of recreación y deporte (IDRD) organizes ecological walks to La Regadera Reservoir. You can visit the website of the institute idrd.gov.co to find out dates and necessary documentation to make the visit.
Amanita muscaria, a fungus associated with the roots of pines
La Regadera Reservoir is located near Usme Pueblo, a few minutes away you can also visit the Tunjuelo River and see the extensive mountains of the area. In addition, the rivers Lechoso and Curubital are located nearby, a good option would be to visit them as part of the tour.
Tunjuelo River
GASTRONOMY IN LA REGADERA RESERVOIR
About 20 minutes walk from the La Regadera reservoir, you will find a restaurant with a country flavor, where you will be served a delicious dish with chicken and meat, with an exquisite chicken “consomé”, all made with charcoal at a very good price because the food is good and really tasty. Near la Regadera you can also ask for trout, a dish that has become popular in the area.
WHERE TO STAY AT LA REGADERA RESERVOIR?
It is necessary to say that the Reservoir, being a private property, does not allow the visitors to spend the night there, that is to say that there is no zone for camping. It is recommended that you plan your visit for one day only, since there are no lodgings near La Regadera reservoir.
COSTS
The entrance to La Regadera Reservoir is free of charge.
