Ventanas de Tisquizoque

The Tisquizoque river runs through limestone and part of its course goes underground, so the water reappears partway down a cliff face - it comes out of a cave mouth in the rock, the ventana or window, and falls freely from there down several hundred metres into the valley below. That is what distinguishes it from an ordinary waterfall, which comes over an edge. The drop is variously given between about three hundred and four hundred metres depending what is being measured. Viewpoints on the road above give the standard view; trails descend towards the base and require a guide and a serious walk. Flow varies with the season and is thin in dry months. The country around is steep, wet and forested.

What you'll find

• Water emerging from a cliff cave - not over a lip.
• A free fall of several hundred metres - into the valley below.
• Roadside viewpoints - the standard view.
• Trails towards the base - a serious walk needing a guide.

When to go

April to June and October to November for flow. Half a day.

What to expect

Flow is much reduced in dry months. Cloud frequently hides the cliff. The trail down is steep and long and needs a guide. Roads in the region are winding and slow.

Nearby

Florian is the base; Chiquinquira is south.