Boyacá Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Boyacá, Colombia, with this comprehensive travel guide that covers the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Boyacá

Boyacá is a department located in the Andino region of Colombia, South America. It is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Boyacá’s capital city, Tunja, is a popular destination for travelers seeking to explore the region’s colonial architecture, museums, and ancient ruins. The department is also home to stunning natural attractions, including waterfalls, hot springs, and natural reserves.

List of Places to Visit in Boyacá

If you’re planning a trip to Boyacá, here are some top attractions that you cannot miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa del Fundador Museum: This museum provides a glimpse into the history of the region through its collection of artifacts and exhibits.
  • Tunja Cathedral: The stunning cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and one of the most significant religious buildings in Colombia.
  • Puente de Boyacá: The place where the famous battle that won Colombia’s independence took place.
  • Archaeological Park of Sogamoso: This park houses ancient vestiges found in the area that belonged to the Muisca Culture.

Natural Attractions of Boyacá: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Tota: This lake is the largest natural lake in Colombia and is surrounded by breathtaking views.
  • Iguaque National Park: A beautiful reserve with a variety of hiking trails and landscapes that diffentiate it.
  • Pozos Azules: The Blue Pools are a series of natural pools with crystal clear blue water set within beautiful surroundings.
  • Sochagota Lake: Another scenic lake in Boyacá, which is great for water activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boyacá

Boyacá has plenty of outdoor activities for those who are seeking an adventure. Some of the best Hiking and biking routes in the region are:

  • Camino Real de las Papas: A spectacular trekking trail that runs through remote Andean villages, rivers, and natural sceneries.
  • La Cebada to Mongui cycling route: a popular cycling route that will take you to picturesque towns and incredible landscapes.
  • Páramo de Pisba Trek: This hike is all about exploring the traditional lifestyles of the locals while hiking in a high-altitude national park.

Best Things to Do in Boyacá: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking to experience something unique and off the beaten path, here are some of the best things to do in Boyacá:

  • Hot Springs: Boyacá has several hot springs where you can relax and enjoy natural warm water.
  • Traditional Markets: Boyacá is famous for its traditional markets, which are a great place to find local handicrafts, traditional clothes, and souvenirs to bring home.
  • Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira: This magnificent salt mine turned cathedral will blow your mind, especially for the architecture and art inside.
  • Tours of rural areas: There are tours available to learn about the farming process and coffee production in small towns, such as Gachantivá and Villa de Leyva.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boyacá

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long trip to Boyacá that will allow you to experience the best of the region:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Tunja, explore the city’s colonial architecture, and visit the Casa del Fundador Museum.
  • Day 2: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Villa de Leyva, known for its stunning colonial architecture, traditional market, and plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Day 3: Visit the Archaeological Park of Sogamoso and learn about the country’s ancient heritage.
  • Day 4: Go hiking in the Iguaque National Park and experience the breathtaking views.
  • Day 5: Take a relaxing dip in the hot springs or visit the blue pools at Pozos Azules.
  • Day 6: Explore the rural areas of Boyacá and visit traditional coffee producers in Gachantivá.
  • Day 7: Visit the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and conclude your trip with an incredible experience.

Food and Drink Scene of Boyacá

The food is one of the most significant components of the traditional culture in Boyacá. Some staple ingredients of the region are the corn, the potatoes, and the beans. While you’re traveling in Boyacá, don’t miss out on these delicious dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ajiaco Santafereño: A hearty soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, capers, and avocado.
  • Lechona: A traditional Colombian dish consisting of roasted pork stuffed with rice, peas, and spices.
  • Arepas de Boyacá: A type of Colombian bread made of corn, and it’s a staple of the region with many fillings, including cheese, meat, and eggs.
  • Frijoles Boyacenses: A bean soup served with rice, pork belly, chorizo, and avocado.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented maize drink that is a staple in Boyacá.
  • Sabajón: A liqueur made of eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
  • Avena: A refreshing drink made of oat and sweetness with sugar and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Boyacá: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Boyacá has plenty of accommodation options, including boutique hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and resorts. Some recommended options are:

  • Hotel Hunza: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Tunja with modern amenities and an outdoor swimming pool.
  • Hostal Casa del Arte: A charming guesthouse in Villa de Leyva with beautiful gardens and artwork throughout the property.
  • Hostel Uzi: A budget-friendly hostel in Sogamoso offering private rooms and dormitories with a laid-back atmosphere.

What to Buy in Boyacá: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Boyacá, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to bring home some traditional souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, pottery, woolen blankets, and coffee. Here are some of the recommended shops to visit in Tunja:

  • Centro de Artesanías de Boyacá: A street market located in the heart of Tunja with a wide range of traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Kuna Makala: A boutique shop selling artisanal clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs made by local designers and artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Boyacá

Boyacá has a rich history rooted in its native Muisca Culture. The region is famous for its traditional music, dance, handicrafts, and festivals. One of the most important festivals is the ‘Fiestas de San Juan,’ where locals wear traditional clothing and celebrate with food, music, and dance.

Best Time to Visit Boyacá

The best time to visit Boyacá is during the dry season, which runs from December to March and from June to August. During these months, the weather is cooler, and the chances of rain are lower. If you want to attend cultural festivals or holiday events, plan your trip to align with specific dates throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boyacá

Here are some important Do’s and Don’ts for travelers to Boyacá:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take the time to learn a bit of Spanish to communicate better with locals.
  • Always carry cash, as not all places accept credit cards.
  • Try local cuisine and buy traditional souvenirs.

Don’t:

  • Hike or walk alone in remote areas, especially at night.
  • Leave your belongings unattended.
  • Consider drinking tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Boyacá

Boyacá is generally safe for travelers. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have a trouble-free visit:

  • Do not walk alone in isolated areas.
  • Avoid displaying valuable items in public.
  • Make sure you take care of your belongings when taking public transportation.
  • Stay aware of scams and pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Boyacá

It is recommended that travelers to Boyacá have received routine vaccinations such as hepatitis A and B, measles, mumps, rubella, among others. If you are traveling to remote areas or have plans for outdoor activities, you should consider getting vaccinated against yellow fever or other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. It’s always advisable to carry a first-aid kit and any necessary medications with you when traveling.

Getting to Boyacá: Transportation Options and Logistics

Boyacá is easily accessible by air, land, and water. Here are the different transportation options available:

Airports Near Boyacá

The closest airports to Boyacá are El Dorado International Airport in Bogota or Perales Airport in Ibagué. From either airport, you can take a bus, rent a car, or hire a personal driver to take you to Boyacá.

Bus Stations Near Boyacá

There are several regional bus stations in nearby cities like Tunja, Sogamoso, Duitama, and Villa de Leyva. From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach your destinations in Boyacá.

Other Options

There are options to take private tours, rent a car, or ride-share services such as Uber or Cabify.

How to Get Around in Boyacá

The most common mode of transportation within Boyacá is by bus or taxi. There are also private tour companies offering guided tours to popular destinations. However, for remote areas, it’s recommended to hire a personal car with a driver.

Where to Go Next from Boyacá: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you plan on continuing your travels after visiting Boyacá, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  • Santander: A neighboring department with stunning natural scenery and landscapes that is known as the adrenaline capital of Colombia.
  • Bogotá: The capital city of Colombia with a vibrant culture and history, world-famous museums, and colorful street art.
  • Medellin: A booming and innovative city known for its creative scene, modern architecture, and dynamic nightlife.

Conclusion

Boyacá is a beautiful and diverse region of Colombia that has so much to offer, from its rich cultural heritage, outdoor activities, stunning natural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Now that you have this comprehensive travel guide, you’re all set to explore and experience the best of Boyacá.