Senda Loto Alma
Let the forest hold the silence
Silence is the main draw at Senda Loto Alma, where sixty hectares of Andean forest begin about two kilometers from the nearest road. Retreats take place in small groups of no more than eight, with simple, secular instructions in Shamatha, a foundational Buddhist meditation practice. There is room to sit in the meditation and yoga shala, walk mountain trails, visit a waterfall, or spend time in the gardens and quiet gathering spaces. Adobe-walled accommodations are designed to keep indoor temperatures naturally comfortable through the year. Meals are vegetarian, inspired by Ayurvedic principles, and made with seasonal ingredients from the garden; vegan and several other dietary options are listed. The setting feels deliberately removed from everyday noise, while Tinjacá and the wider Boyacá highlands remain within reach. The center runs by donation, making it worth asking ahead about contributions and retreat arrangements.
Highlights
- A dedicated meditation and yoga shala at the heart of the grounds
- A waterfall reached within sixty hectares of private forest
- Adobe walls designed to moderate indoor temperatures naturally
- Seasonal vegetarian meals prepared with produce from the garden
Good for
Setting
Spread across sixty hectares of private Andean forest, the property sits about two kilometers from the nearest road. Mountain trails, gardens, quiet gathering spaces, and a waterfall make it easy to spend time outdoors between practice sessions.
The practice
The retreat practice is Shamatha, a foundational form of Buddhist meditation that develops steadiness and attention. Sessions use simple, secular instructions, and newcomers do not need prior experience. Groups are limited to eight participants, creating a small setting for learning and practice.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat; ask the center about sitting times, meals, and periods of silence before booking.
Accommodation
Adobe-walled accommodations are designed to maintain a naturally comfortable indoor temperature year-round. Ask the center about room types and occupancy when arranging a retreat.
What to bring
Shamatha practice calls for comfortable clothing that lets you sit easily. The annual average temperature is 16.9°C, so bring layers and walking shoes for forest trails; April, March, and February tend to be wetter.
How to get there
From Bogotá, drive north through Tunja and Villa de Leyva, a journey of about three hours. The property is around two kilometers from Tinjacá; free parking is available on-site.
Nearest airport: El Dorado International Airport (BOG) (111 km)
El Dorado International Airport (BOG) is approximately 111 km away, about a three-hour drive. The center can arrange a private transfer from the airport; request it at least a week ahead.
Nearest city: Bogota
Public transport: Buses from Bogotá's Salitre terminal travel toward Chiquinquirá via Ubaté; get off at Tinjacá and arrange a local taxi for the final two kilometers.
The center runs by donation, with no fixed fee listed. Ask the host how contributions are handled and what they cover.
Climate
Climate Zone: Temperate
Best Months: Jul, Sep, Jan
Avoid: Apr, Mar, Feb
Tinjacá has an annual average temperature of 16.9°C, with cooler months including January, June, and August. April, March, and February are typically wetter, while July, September, and January are among the driest.
Location
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Senda Loto Alma from Bogotá?
The drive from Bogotá takes about three hours via Tunja and Villa de Leyva. A private transfer from El Dorado International Airport can be arranged in advance, or you can take a bus to Tinjacá and arrange a short local taxi ride.
Can I join a retreat if I have never meditated before?
Yes. The retreats welcome beginners and use straightforward instructions, with no previous meditation experience required.
What kind of food is served?
Meals are vegetarian, inspired by Ayurvedic principles, and prepared with seasonal garden ingredients. Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options are listed.
How do I reserve a place?
Contact the center directly to ask about retreat dates, availability, and reservation arrangements.
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