Hello fellow travelers! I’m Nicholas, an American who’s made Colombia my home. Today, I’m excited to share with you the wonders of Villeta, a delightful town in Cundinamarca, beloved by locals for its serene atmosphere.
Welcome to Villeta
Just about 80 kilometers from Bogotá, Villeta is renowned for its vast panela production, a natural sweetener made from sugarcane juice, and its pleasant weather.
Originally inhabited by the Chapaimas indigenous people, Villeta is also known as the “land of the condor”.
Journey to Villeta
The bus ride to Villeta offers stunning views of the Andes. As you descend, you’re greeted by an altitude of about 800 meters above sea level and a lovely average temperature of 25°C.
In Villeta, life revolves around the central square, a bustling hub of bars and restaurants. The town center has seen significant growth in recent years, making it a must-visit for a true taste of local life.
Exploring Villeta’s Attractions
Visit a Panela Mill
Panela, a staple in Colombian cuisine, is the foundation of the agricultural industry, even more so than coffee. Fun fact: the first iron mill in the country was set up in Villeta in 1840.
Don’t miss exploring the market street of panela, buzzing with activity and transactions. Villeta is also known for its iraca palm crafts, offering a variety of handmade items like hats, bags, and decorative trays.
The Salto de los Micos Nature Trail
Near the Cune stream, this eco-tourism spot boasts seven waterfalls ranging from 5 to 40 meters in height. It’s a popular weekend getaway, named after the monkeys (“micos”) that once inhabited this river area.
Finca Montes de Chitavindá
This peaceful retreat, just a few kilometers from the city center, is accessible by a winding, cobblestone road. Chitavindá, meaning “union” in the indigenous language, perfectly describes this family-run agro-tourism project.
Spread over 25 hectares, the farm offers hiking, swimming, football, table games, and tejo courts. ✔ We took a medium-level hike through forests of arazá and iraca palms, topping it off with a visit to an organic panela mill.
Accommodations in Villeta
Whether you’re looking for cozy hostels or luxurious resorts, Villeta has it all. ✔ Finding a budget-friendly hostel is easy, except during special events or busy weekends.
For a charming stay, I recommend the Villeta Resort, complete with pools and outdoor activities.
Villeta Resort
Nestled on a hillside, the resort offers various types of accommodations. The rooms are spacious with rustic, homey decor. The largest pool boasts stunning views, and the on-site restaurant serves delicious meals.
Villeta Boutique Hotel
For those seeking tranquility, the Villeta Boutique, surrounded by mountains, is an ideal choice. It offers luxurious rooms, a spa, a pool, and a restaurant.
Festivals and Events
Don’t miss the National and International Panela Festival in January, the Band Festival in August, and the town’s birthday celebrations in September.
Where is Villeta?
Located in Cundinamarca, Villeta is just 90 kilometers from Bogotá and 325 kilometers from Medellín. Nearby towns like Sasaima and La Vega are also worth visiting.
Getting to Villeta
▶️ Discover more tourist plans around Bogotá