Lake Tota, Natural lake in Boyacá, Colombia

Lake Tota is a body of water in the Andes of Boyacá at over 3,000 meters altitude. The water is cold and clear, and the shoreline runs for several kilometers with coves, shallow areas, and rocky sections.

Before Spanish arrival, Muisca communities lived along the shores and used the water body for ceremonies and star observation. Later, the area was developed for farming, changing the structure of the shoreline regions.

The name Tota comes from the Chibcha language of the Muisca; linguist Mariana Escribano links it to "Astronomic Observatory", reflecting the lake's sacred use for star observation. The lake was an important religious centre for the Muisca, and legends tell how their ancestors formed it. On Isla San Pedro, the Peña de la Virgen and the Mirador are the main sites, and rainbow trout fishing remains an important income for the islanders.

The area is best visited during dry weather, as paths can turn muddy. The altitude makes itself felt quickly, so it is wise to walk slowly and bring enough water.

The fields around the water body supply most of the country's spring onions, giving the shores an unusual economic importance. In some places you can see small wooden boats used by farmers to transport the harvest.