Embalse El Hato, reservoir in Colombia
Embalse El Hato is a large water basin surrounded by green vegetation and open spaces in a quiet area of Cundinamarca. The water comes from the Hato River and the site includes walking trails, camping areas, and cabins for overnight stays, plus recreational facilities for fishing and boating.
The estate around Embalse El Hato dates back over 400 years and features a colonial-style house built from wood and stone. Water management of the site began in 1985 when land was purchased to regulate the Hato River and supply drinking water to nearby communities of Ubaté and Carmen de Carupa.
The reservoir is valued by local communities as a space that protects water and land resources for the region. Visitors can observe how people maintain a slow-paced way of life connected to farming and nature, which reflects generations of living in harmony with the environment.
The site is about 130 kilometers from Bogotá and best reached via roads from Ubaté or Carmen de Carupa, followed by a dirt road that is passable but can be rough. It is advisable to bring warm clothing, rain boots, water, and snacks, as the weather is cool and can change quickly.
The colonial house on the property, called La Casona, is more than 200 years old and offers glimpses into the area's long history while accommodating multiple guests. Early morning visitors often report catching fish in these waters that are difficult to find in other locations.
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