Pisba National Natural Park hosts diverse wildlife adapted to high-altitude environments. Notable species include the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque), and various species of high-Andean eagles. The park is also home to several endemic amphibians, including the Pisba harlequin frog. Bird species of particular interest include the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), black-chested buzzard-eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus), and various hummingbird species.
The park's vegetation is dominated by páramo ecosystem species adapted to high altitude conditions. Frailejones (Espeletia), the iconic páramo plant, are abundant throughout the higher elevations. The park also features extensive areas of high-Andean forest with species like encenillo trees (Weinmannia), Colombian oak (Quercus humboldtii), and various orchids. Lower elevations contain cloud forest vegetation, while the páramo areas showcase cushion plants, bunch grasses, and numerous endemic species adapted to the harsh alpine conditions.
The park's geology is characterized by ancient metamorphic and sedimentary rocks formed during the uplift of the Eastern Cordillera of the Colombian Andes. The landscape features dramatic glacial valleys, moraines, and cirques shaped during the last ice age. The terrain includes significant deposits of sandstone and limestone, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,100 meters above sea level. Notable geological formations include the Pisba Pass at 3,900 meters and numerous high-altitude lakes of glacial origin.
Pisba National Natural Park holds significant historical importance as it contains part of the famous Pisba Pass, a crucial route used by Simón Bolívar's army during the Independence Campaign of 1819. The park was officially established in 1977 to protect this historical heritage along with its unique páramo ecosystem. Indigenous Muisca people traditionally inhabited this region, considering these high-altitude areas sacred. The park's creation also aimed to preserve the watershed systems that supply water to numerous communities in the Boyacá department.
The park's most distinctive feature is the historic Pisba Pass, which offers spectacular views and historical significance. The park contains numerous high-altitude lakes (lagunas) including Laguna de los Patos and Laguna Negra, which are important water sources for the region. The extensive páramo ecosystem, covering approximately 45,000 hectares, represents one of Colombia's best-preserved high-altitude environments. The park also features dramatic waterfalls, including the Salto de Candelas, and serves as a crucial water source for numerous rivers that supply the Orinoco Basin.
Pisba National Natural Park experiences a typical páramo climate characterized by cold temperatures ranging from -4°C to 14°C (25°F to 57°F). The park sees frequent rainfall throughout the year, with annual precipitation averaging 2,500mm. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with morning mists giving way to afternoon sunshine, followed by evening frost. The area experiences two slightly drier seasons from December to March and July to August, though precipitation remains possible year-round. High-altitude conditions mean UV exposure is intense, even on cloudy days.
Colombia
5.9830°, -72.7000°
1977
450
A high-altitude park featuring páramo ecosystems and glacial lakes. Historically significant as part of Simón Bolívar's route during the independence campaign. Contains important water sources and unique high-altitude vegetation.