Hello fellow travelers! I’m Nicholas, an American living in the vibrant country of Colombia. Today, I’m excited to share with you some fantastic activities and sights in and around Bogotá, especially in the beautiful department of Cundinamarca.
Adventures Around Bogotá
Whether you’re a tourist seeking a break from Bogotá’s bustling city life or a local looking for weekend getaway ideas, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some amazing recommendations and destinations near Bogotá, within Cundinamarca.
Don’t miss out on extended information about places like Suesca, Villeta, and Mesitas del Colegio!
Tabio: The Green Municipality of Colombia
Tabio, just 45 km from Bogotá, is a picturesque agricultural town known for its flower and ornamental plant cultivation.
Attractions in Tabio
The highlight of Tabio is the famed Zipa thermal baths, popular for their therapeutic properties. These baths offer a large pool, a smaller one, slides, and a jacuzzi. The surrounding volcanic water belt ensures a pleasant bathing temperature, despite Tabio’s cooler climate.
Explore the ecological walks, hills, and small natural parks in the region, notably the mysterious Peña Juaica, known for alleged UFO sightings and its magical Muisca origins.
✔ Note: To visit Peña Juaica, it’s mandatory to be accompanied by a police officer.
Tabio’s Culinary Delights
Don’t miss local dishes like mazamorra chiquita, mute, pumpkin tamales, and chucula.
Local Festivals
Experience the Youth Festival in September and the National Meeting of Torbellino and Traditional Dances in November.
Exploring Sasaima
Sasaima, a quaint town near Villeta, 72 km from Bogotá, is known for its agriculture and livestock.
Sasaima’s Must-See Attractions
Discover Sasaima’s history with the indigenous Panches and the resistance led by the chief Cacaima. Visit the Central Park of Sasaima’s Identity, featuring a statue of Cacaima, the San Nicolás temple, and the charming Santa Bárbara chapel.
Tour the national monument-status railway stations of La Victoria and Sasaima for a slice of history.
For nature enthusiasts, Sasaima offers beautiful landscapes like the Highs of the Hieroglyphics and the Mirador, the Mesón lagoon, and the Pilaca lakes.
Sasaima’s Gastronomy
Try the hearty chanfaina, the refreshing guarapo de caña, and relish the renowned oranges and mandarins.
The Mystical Laguna de Guatavita
The Laguna de Guatavita is a spiritual natural wonder, famous for its Muisca heritage and the legend of El Dorado.
To reach Guatavita, take a bus from Bogotá’s North Portal or from Calle 72 with Carrera 13 via La Calera. Minibuses to the reserve are available from the town.
The Majestic Cascada La Chorrera
Just 45 minutes from Bogotá, discover La Chorrera, Colombia’s tallest waterfall, offering breathtaking views and a perfect setting for a nature walk and picnic.
Birthplace of the Río Bogotá
Visit the source of the Río Bogotá in the Guacheneque reserve,
a special journey that requires planning and a full day to appreciate its spectacular scenery.
Chingaza National Park: A Natural Wonder
About an hour from Bogotá lies the Chingaza National Park, a mystical and ecologically vital area that supplies water to over 20 million people.
Trek through the park to discover its unique flora and fauna, including the eye-catching frailejones.
Gachalá: The Emerald Paradise
In the Guavio province, Gachalá is renowned for its emerald mines and offers a range of outdoor activities.
For water sports enthusiasts, the Guavio dam is a perfect spot for kayaking and boat trips.
Melgar: A Tropical Getaway
Looking for a poolside retreat? Melgar, southwest of Bogotá, offers a warmer, tropical climate with abundant hotel options featuring pools.
Reach Melgar via the South Transport Terminal in Bogotá. Explore the town’s vibrant nightlife and indulge in local culinary delights.
▶️ For more fantastic travel ideas in Colombia, check out Villeta, Suesca, and Mesitas del Colegio. Happy travels!