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Guavio Hydroelectric Dam

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Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)

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The Guavio Dam is one of Colombia's most powerful hydroelectric plants, located in the Cundinamarca Department, approximately 120 kilometers east of Bogotá. The centerpiece of the project is the 243-meter-high Alberto Lleras Dam, which impounds the Guavio River. The power station is built almost entirely underground in a massive cavern and utilizes an extraordinary elevation drop to operate its turbines. With a capacity exceeding 1,200 megawatts, it contributes massively to the energy supply of the Colombian capital and the central part of the country. Its construction was considered an enormous challenge due to difficult geological conditions and the region's isolation. Since its commissioning in the 1990s, Guavio has proven to be a pillar of national grid stability. The facility is currently operated by the company Enel and is subject to strict environmental regulations to protect the watershed in the Eastern Cordillera.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C161616161515141515161616
Rain mm4063147264293242214171145229203113

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Guavio Dam is one of Colombia's largest hydroelectric plants, harnessing the water resources of the Eastern Ranges for clean power generation. It supplies a significant portion of the Bogotá capital region with electricity.
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Visiting
The dam is usually not open to the public due to security restrictions. However, it can be clearly seen from certain viewpoints along the access road, including the dam wall and reservoir.
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Where to view it
An excellent viewpoint is the bridge over the Guavio River downstream of the dam, from where its impressive height is visible. The observation platform at the visitor center also gives a good view, if open.
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Local products
Local agricultural products like coffee, fruits, and vegetables are grown in the region and sold at local markets. The reservoir is also used for fish farming, making fresh fish a typical local product.
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Active season
The dam operates year-round, but maintenance schedules may vary seasonally. The rainy season from May to October increases water levels and thus power generation.
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Nearby
Combine the visit with a hike in the surrounding cloud forests of the Eastern Ranges. The nearby town of Guavio features basic lodging and local cuisine.

Geography

Coordinates
4.72140, -73.30500

Facts

  • The Alberto Lleras Dam is the highest in Colombia at 243 meters.
  • The power plant features five high-capacity Pelton turbines.
  • It was inaugurated in 1992 after a construction period of over a decade.
  • The underground powerhouse cavern is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
  • Guavio provides approximately 15% of Colombia's electricity consumption.
  • The tunnel directing water to the power station is several kilometers long.

Explore nearby

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PaipaPaipa40 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Guavio power plant?
It is currently Colombia's highest-capacity hydroelectric plant.
Where is it located?
In the Cundinamarca department, east of Bogotá in a mountainous region.
Are there construction specialties?
The powerhouse is located deep underground, carved into the rock.
Can you visit the reservoir?
Yes, the surrounding landscape is very attractive for nature lovers.
What purpose does the dam serve?
It regulates the Guavio River and stores energy for peak demand.
Guavio Hydroelectric Dam: where is it located?
Guavio Hydroelectric Dam is located in Colombia.
Guavio Hydroelectric Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Guavio Hydroelectric Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Guavio Dam is one of Colombia's most powerful hydroelectric plants, located in the Cundinamarca Department, approximately 120 kilometers east of Bogotá.
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Nearby cities

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Zipaquirá — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
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Historic city world-famous for its underground salt cathedral.
Chía — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
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Northern suburb of Bogotá, known as the city of the moon.
Girardot — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
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Guatavita — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
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Guatavita is a charming Colombian town known for its striking white-washed colonial architecture and its proximity to the sacred Lake Gua…

History & landmarks

Ráquira — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
Ráquira
Colombia's pottery capital, a vibrant and colorful town known for its traditional clay craftsmanship.
Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is an underground Roman Catholic church built within the tunnels of a salt mine.

Nature

Lake Guatavita — Guavio Hydroelectric Dam (Colombia)
Lake Guatavita
A nearly circular crater lake, widely considered the origin of the El Dorado legend.

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