Cueva de los Tayos | Villa de Leyva

Information

Landmark: Cueva de los Tayos
City: Villa de Leyva
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Cueva de los Tayos, Villa de Leyva, Colombia, South America

Cueva de los Tayos is a cave system located near Villa de Leyva, Colombia.

This geological formation is characterized by its extensive underground passages and unique rock formations.

Visual Characteristics

The cave entrance is a fissure in a limestone cliff face. Inside, the rock walls are primarily composed of sedimentary limestone, exhibiting varying shades of grey and beige. Stalactites and stalagmites are present throughout the accessible sections. The cave floor consists of compacted earth and loose rock fragments. Ambient light penetration is limited to the initial 50 meters from the entrance.

Location & Access Logistics

Cueva de los Tayos is situated approximately 10 kilometers west of Villa de Leyva. Access is via the unpaved road leading towards the El Fósil museum. The final approach requires a short walk of approximately 500 meters from the designated parking area. Parking is available roadside at the trailhead. No public transport directly serves the cave entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The cave system is a result of natural karst processes, specifically the dissolution of soluble limestone by groundwater over geological time. Its formation is estimated to be several hundred thousand years old. The name "Cueva de los Tayos" refers to the nocturnal oilbirds (Steatornis caripensis), also known as tayos, which historically inhabited the deeper sections of the cave.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the cave's initial chambers is permitted. Guided tours are available, focusing on geological features and the cave's ecosystem. Observation of cave-dwelling fauna, such as bats and insects, is possible. Photography is allowed within the first 100 meters of the cave.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic signage is present at the trailhead. Restrooms are not available at the cave site. There are no food vendors directly at the cave. Cell phone signal is intermittent within 1 kilometer of the entrance and absent inside the cave.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time for visiting is during the dry season, from December to March, to minimize potential water accumulation within the cave. Mid-morning offers consistent natural light at the entrance. Avoid visiting during periods of heavy rainfall.

Facts & Legends

Local folklore suggests that the cave was once used as a refuge by indigenous groups during times of conflict. A specific geological feature within the cave, a large, smooth rock formation, is locally referred to as "El Altar" (The Altar).