Villavicencio Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and places to visit in Villavicencio, Colombia. From cultural attractions and natural wonders to must-try food and drink, this guide covers everything you need to know for your next trip.


Introduction to Villavicencio

Villavicencio is a lively city in the heart of the Orinoquía region of Colombia, making it an ideal destination for cultural and outdoor enthusiasts. Known as the “Gateway to the Plains,” Villavicencio boasts a blend of urban and rural landscapes, offering visitors the chance to experience everything from museums and historical sites to scenic drives and horseback riding. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the best things to see and do in Villavicencio, so you can make the most of your visit to this incredible part of South America.

List of Places to Visit in Villavicencio

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Villavicencio has a rich history, and the city is home to several museums and historical sites that showcase its cultural heritage. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Villavicencio include:

  • Museum of the Llanero: This museum offers an immersive experience into the life of the Llaneros, the cowboys of the plains. You’ll learn about their traditions, music, and way of life through exhibitions, music, and dance performances.
  • Bioparque Los Ocarros: This park is a great place for families with kids. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, monkeys, and crocodiles. You can also go on a boat ride or walk down the trails to see the sights.
  • Cathedral of Our Lady of Carmen: The Cathedral of Our Lady of Carmen is a beautiful church located in the center of the city. Built in 1943, the church is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture.
  • La Vorágine Cultural Center: This cultural center is one of the most important in the region for art exhibitions, music, and dance performances. Located in the heart of Villavicencio, it’s a great place to experience the local culture.

Natural Attractions of Villavicencio: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Orinoquía region is known for its expansive savannas, lush river valleys, and breathtaking natural attractions. Some of the best outdoor adventures and scenic views in Villavicencio include:

  • Caño Cristales: Known as the “River of Five Colors,” Caño Cristales is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The river features underwater plants and multicolored mosses, which create a vibrant and surreal landscape. The best time to visit is from June to November.
  • La Silla de Menor: This ecological park offers beautiful landscapes and hiking trails. Climb to the top of La Silla de Menor, a hill with a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
  • Balneario la Bendición: This natural pool is surrounded by a lush jungle and is a great place for swimming or relaxing in the sun.
  • Piedemonte: Piedemonte is an area famous for its expansive savannas and the Andes Mountain Range that provides a stunning backdrop to this landscape. It is also an area that is well known for its horseback riding experiences.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Villavicencio

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Villavicencio and its surroundings, there are several hiking and biking trails to choose from. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Quebrada La Honda Trail: This 10 km trail is perfect for intermediate hikers. The trail takes you through the mountains, past rivers, and through some rural towns.
  • La Paya Trail: This is one of the most popular hiking trails in Villavicencio. It is a relatively easy trial that provides wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Piedemonte Horseback Riding: The Piedemonte area is home to several horseback riding experiences that are a must-do for anyone looking to explore the landscape in an authentic way.

Best Things to Do in Villavicencio: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to try in Villavicencio. Some of the best include:

  • Chimichagua’s Tour: This cultural tour takes you through the town of Chimichagua, one of the oldest towns in the region. Learn about the indigenous communities and their traditions.
  • Orocue Birds Watching Tour: Colombia is a birder’s paradise, and the Orocue Bird Watching Tour is perfect for bird lovers. You’ll see a wide variety of birds and get to meet some of the local birdwatchers.
  • Villavicencio City Tour: This tour takes you through the city to see the most iconic landmarks. Visit cathedrals, museums, and historic markets that provide the perfect expereince of local Colombian culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Villavicencio

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Villavicencio to help you plan your trip:

  • Day 1: Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Carmen and explore the La Vorágine Cultural Center.
  • Day 2: Take a horseback riding tour through the Piedemonte region.
  • Day 3: Hike the Quebrada La Honda Trail.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour to Caño Cristales for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Day 5: Visit the Museum of the Llanero and Bioparque Los Ocarros.
  • Day 6: Go on the Chimichagua’s Tour and learn about the local indigenous communities.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Balneario la Bendición.

Food and Drink Scene of Villavicencio

Must-Try Dishes

Villavicencio is known for its traditional cuisine, which incorporates fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Mondongo: This is a traditional soup made from tripe, the stomach lining of a cow or pig, mixed with potatoes, onions, and spices.
  • Sancocho: Sancocho is a stew made with fish, beef, or chicken and root vegetables. This flavorful dish is popular throughout Colombia.
  • Carne a la Llanera: A typical dish with beef, pork or sausages cooked with panela, paprika, and cumin. It is served with cassava and platanitos.
  • Arepa Boyacense: Are na popular patterned foods for Colombians. It is a sweet corn arepas with cheese and hogao sauce.

Local Beverages

No trip to Villavicencio is complete without trying some of the local drinks. Here are some of the must-try beverages in Villavicencio:

  • Chicha: This is a traditional drink made from fermented corn that has a slightly sweet and sour taste. It’s served cold and is perfect for hot days.
  • Masato: A traditional alcoholic drink made of rice, corn, and sweetened with panela and cinnamon.
  • Coffee: Colombia is renowned for its coffee, which is grown in the region surrounding Villavicencio. You can’t leave without trying a cup of the local brew.

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

Villavicencio offers plenty of options for accommodation, whether you’re looking for budget-friendly hostels or luxurious resorts. Here are some the best places to stay in the city:

  • Llanero Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Villavicencio and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget.
  • Estelar Villavicencio: If you’re looking for something more upscale, the Estelar Villavicencio is a great option. This hotel is located outside the city and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hotel Don Lolo: This guesthouse is located in a quiet neighborhood close to the city center. The rooms are cozy and well-maintained, making it a good option for families and couples.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to take home, here are some of the best things to buy in Villavicencio:

  • Llanero Hat: The Llanero hat is a traditional hat worn by the cowboys of the plains. It’s a great souvenir to bring back home and can be found in most souvenir shops.
  • Handmade Hammocks: Villavicencio is known for its handmade hammocks made from soft, colorful threads. You can find them in most markets and souvenir shops.
  • Chicha: If you enjoyed the taste of chicha, you can buy some to take home. It’s often sold in small bottles and makes a great gift for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Villavicencio

The people of Villavicencio are friendly and welcoming to visitors. The city is known for its vibrant music and dance scene, and you may be lucky enough to catch a live performance during your visit. Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Villavicencio

The best time to visit Villavicencio is from June to November, as the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, the city can be visited all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Villavicencio

Do:

  • Try the traditional cuisine and drinks.
  • Learn some Spanish. The local people appreciate the effort.
  • Be respectful of the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Ignore warnings about safety concerns.

Safety and Health

Safety in Villavicencio

While Villavicencio is generally safe for visitors, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid traveling alone at night and stick to well-lit areas. Be wary of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Villavicencio

Colombia has made great strides in improving its healthcare system. Villavicencio has several hospitals and clinics should you need medical assistance. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

Getting to Villavicencio: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Villavicencio

The La Vanguardia International Airport (VVC) is located in Villavicencio. There are daily flights from Bogota and other domestic flights in Colombia.

Bus Stations Near Villavicencio

There are several bus companies that operate between Villavicencio and other major cities in Colombia. The Terminal de Transporte de Villavicencio receives buses to and from destinations such as Bogota, Medellin, Cali, and Cartagena.

Other Options

There are other options to get to Villavicencio such as taxis and shared vans. These provide flexible and personalized travel at a higher cost.

How to Get Around in Villavicencio

The best way to get around Villavicencio is by taxi or renting a car or motorcycle. Biking and walking are also great options.

Where to Go Next from Villavicencio: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several great destinations and excursions that can be reached from Villavicencio, including:

  • Tatacoa Desert: Located in the south of Huila, and only 3 hours from Villavicencio. It is one of the driest places in Colombia, with amazing night skies, and unique landscapes.
  • La Macarena National Park: Located in the department of Meta, the park is home to Caño Cristales and other natural wonders.
  • Bogota: The capital city of Colombia, Bogota is located about 2.5 hours from Villavicencio and offers a wide range of cultural and historical attractions.

Conclusion

Villavicencio is an amazing destination that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the local culture or get your blood pumping through hiking or horseback riding, Villavicencio has something for everyone. Book your trip today and discover everything this incredible city has to offer.