Boyacá (department) Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and things to do in Boyacá, Colombia. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything from cultural attractions to natural wonders and logistics information.
- Introduction to Boyacá (department)
- List of Places to Visit in Boyacá (department)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Boyacá (department)
- Best Things to Do in Boyacá (department): Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Boyacá (department)
- Food and Drink Scene of Boyacá (department)
- Where to Stay in Boyacá (department): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Boyacá (department): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Boyacá (department)
- Best Time to Visit Boyacá (department)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Boyacá (department)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Boyacá (department): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Boyacá (department)
- Where to Go Next from Boyacá (department): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Boyacá (department)
Located in the Andino region of Colombia in South America, Boyacá (department) is a traveler’s paradise. Nicknamed “The land of freedom,” this scenic destination is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Boyacá boasts snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, picturesque colonial towns, and charming locals, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers.
List of Places to Visit in Boyacá (department)
There are countless things to see and do in Boyacá. Here’s a comprehensive list of places you should not miss:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Villa de Leyva: Walk among the cobblestone streets of the best-preserved colonial town in South America.
- Tunja: Explore the capital city and learn about the country’s liberation history from Spanish colonization.
- Paipa: Relax in the hot springs and enjoy the thermal healing waters.
- Iza: Visit the picturesque town that still maintains its indigenous heritage.
- Monguí: Explore the medieval town famous for its exquisite handmade soccer balls.
Natural Attractions of Boyacá (department): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Páramo de Ocetá: Take a hike in the high-altitude grassland and soak in the breathtaking view of the mountains.
- El Cocuy: Hike one of the several trails of Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, one of Colombia’s most spectacular and sought-after mountain ranges.
- Laguna de Tota: Go kayaking, hiking, or fishing in the largest natural lake in Colombia.
- Sochagota Lake: Take a dip in the crystal-clear water of the glacial lake and enjoy the view of the nearby farmland.
- Rio Chicamocha Canyon: Take a cable car ride over the deep canyon and get the bird’s eye view of the breathtaking landscape.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Boyacá (department)
Boyacá is a hiker and biker’s paradise. Here are some of the best routes to explore this beautiful countryside:
- Villa de Leyva to Iguaque: Hike a strenuous uphill trail to the top of the Iguaque National Park for a rewarding view of the valley.
- Sochagota to Monguí: Bike or hike through the farmland and witness the breathtaking vistas along the way.
- El Cocuy to La Lagunilla: Hike one of the most popular trails of Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, taking in the waterfalls, alpine meadows, and panoramic views of the glaciers.
Best Things to Do in Boyacá (department): Activities and Tours
- Festival of Lights: Join the Gran Parada de Luces, now recognized as cultural heritage by UNESCO, in December.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar over the scenic landscape of Villa de Leyva and experience the beauty of the town and the surrounding countryside.
- Horseback Riding: Rent a horse and explore the beautiful countryside of Monguí or Paipa.
- Coffee Tours: Learn about the coffee-making process and get a taste of fresh Colombian coffee in one of the many coffee plantation tours.
- Paragliding: Fly over the hills and experience the adrenaline rush of paragliding over the Andes mountains.
Week-Long Itinerary for Boyacá (department)
Here’s a sample itinerary for spending a week in Boyacá:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Tunja and explore the city center |
| 2 | Hike to Villa de Leyva’s Iguaque National Park |
| 3 | Horseback Riding and hot springs at Paipa |
| 4 | Take a Coffee Tour & visit Catedral de Sal in Zipaquirá |
| 5 | Explore Monguí’s medieval beauty |
| 6 | Paragliding and hot air balloon ride in Villa de Leyva |
| 7 | Hike in Sierra Nevada del Cocuy |
Food and Drink Scene of Boyacá (department)
Boyacá’s cuisine is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Here are some must-try local dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Ajiaco: A hearty chicken and potato soup.
- Frijoles: Slow-cooked beans with pork or Colombian chorizo.
- Trucha: Trout fish often served with potatoes and rice.
- Sancocho: A stew with chicken, beef, or fish with yuca, plantains, or potatoes.
Local Beverages
- Chicha: A fermented maize drink with a sweet-sour tang.
- Aguardiente: An anise-flavored liquor popular across Colombia.
- Canelazo: A warm, sweet drink with cinnamon, panela, and aguardiente.
Where to Stay in Boyacá (department): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Boyacá has accommodation options that cater to different budgets and tastes.
- Villa de Leyva: A colonial-styled town with boutique hotels and family-owned guesthouses.
- Tunja: A commercialized city with chain hotels and budget-friendly hostels.
- Paipa: A small town known for its thermal baths and spa resorts.
- Sogamoso: A college town with several budget and midrange options.
What to Buy in Boyacá (department): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Boyacá is known for its handmade crafts, leather goods, and textiles. Here are some popular items to bring back:
- Cerámica de Ráquira: Hand-painted ceramic dishes, vases, and figurines.
- Sabaneta Leathers: Handcrafted leather belts, wallets, and bags.
- Mochilas Boyacenses: Colorful woven backpacks and purses.
Local Culture and Customs of Boyacá (department)
Boyacá has a rich and diverse culture shaped by its indigenous roots, colonial history, and modern influences. The people of Boyacá take great pride in their heritage, food, music, and local festivals. Visitors are advised to respect local customs, dress modestly, and be mindful of their surroundings.
Best Time to Visit Boyacá (department)
The best time to visit Boyacá is between December and February and from June to August when the weather is dry and pleasant. The region experiences a rainy season between April and May and from September to November.
Do’s and Don’ts of Boyacá (department)
Do:
- Learn a few Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.
- Try the local cuisine and attend cultural events such as the Festival of Lights.
- Respect nature and wildlife while hiking or exploring the outdoors.
- Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.
Don’t:
- Exchange money on the street and use only licensed exchange services.
- Carry large amounts of money or wear expensive jewelry while walking in tourist areas.
- Disrespect the local culture and customs.
Safety and Health
Safety in Boyacá (department)
Boyacá is generally safe for travelers, but there are some precautions to take:
- Avoid walking alone at night and in remote areas.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Use certified taxis and avoid using unregistered cabs.
Health in Boyacá (department)
There are no health concerns specific to Boyacá, but visitors are advised to take general health precautions such as:
- Drink bottled water and avoid tap water.
- Pack insect repellent and sunscreen.
Getting to Boyacá (department): Transportation Options and Logistics
Boyacá is accessible by road and air:
- Bus: There are several bus companies that travel to Boyacá from Bogotá and other major cities.
- Car Rental: Renting a car is an option but beware of high traffic density and driving hazards due to winding roads and steep slopes.
- Air: The nearest airports are Palonegro International Airport in Bucaramanga and El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá.
Airports Near Boyacá (department)
- Palonegro International Airport in Bucaramanga is about 3 hours away from Boyacá.
- El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá is about 3.5 hours away from Boyacá.
Bus Stations Near Boyacá (department)
- Terminal del Norte in Bogotá is the largest bus terminal with buses to Boyacá.
- Puente Nacional is a smaller, more quaint terminal that services Boyacá.
Other Options
- Private transfer services are available for door-to-door service.
How to Get Around in Boyacá (department)
The best way to get around Boyacá is by car or bus. Several companies provide car rental services, while there are several bus services with varying levels of comfort.
Where to Go Next from Boyacá (department): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Bogotá: The vibrant capital city of Colombia, known for its museums, art, and nightlife.
- San Gil: An adventure-filled town with activities like white water rafting and paragliding.
- Barichara: A colonial town known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Conclusion
Boyacá is a spectacular destination that offers a mix of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. This comprehensive travel guide has provided you with everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Boyacá. Whether you are interested in hiking, exploring cultural attractions, or sampling delicious local cuisine, Boyacá has something to offer for everyone.
