"high altitude packing" El Cocuy Packing List Tip by richiecdisc

Luggage and bags: A backpack is your best choice when traveling around Colombia in general but in an area noted for trekking, you'll be especially glad you have one!

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: At nearly 2800 m, El Cocuy is a fairly high altitude mountain town which is good for acclimatizing to the even greater heights you will experience in the nearby namesake National Park. The weather can be changeable and is noted for cold and often gray weather but when we were there it was unusually sunny and warm. That said, evenings and early mornings can be quite chilly so you'll need a jacket and even a hat at times. Of course, if you are heading into the park you would have these things anyway but even those just making a cursory visit here should come ready for cooler temperatures than you find in much of Colombia. Hint: dress in layers.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Sun screen is a true essential at high altitude as the sun is even more intense.

Photo Equipment: A wide angle lens is great for photos of architecture and a polarizer a must if you shoot midday when sunny. Of course, you'll go out early morning to avoid this, right? ;)

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: You might not need your camping hear in town but hopefully you're headed into the National Park for some trekking. You WILL need it there and it's not available ANYWHERE locally.

Miscellaneous: Muchas, muchas gracias to my lovely wife D for training for and doing this incredible trek with me!