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Villa de Leyva, Colombia - Things to Do in Villa de Leyva

Things to Do in Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva, Colombia - Complete Travel Guide

Villa de Leyva is a perfectly preserved colonial town in Colombia's Boyacá department, renowned for having one of the largest cobblestone main squares in South America. Founded in 1572, this UNESCO World Heritage candidate has maintained its original Spanish colonial architecture with white-washed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and wooden balconies that transport visitors back in time. The town sits at 2,149 meters above sea level in the Eastern Cordillera of the Colombian Andes, offering a cool climate and stunning mountain vistas. Beyond its architectural beauty, Villa de Leyva serves as a gateway to fascinating paleontological sites, ancient observatories, and mystical landscapes. The surrounding area is rich in fossils, including marine creatures that once inhabited this region when it was covered by sea millions of years ago. The town has become a favorite weekend retreat for Bogotanos and international travelers seeking a peaceful escape filled with history, culture, and natural wonders.

Top Things to Do in Villa de Leyva

Explore the Historic Main Square

The Plaza Mayor is the heart of Villa de Leyva, covering 14,000 square meters of perfectly preserved cobblestones surrounded by colonial buildings. This massive square hosts markets, festivals, and provides the perfect spot to admire the town's architecture while enjoying a coffee at one of the surrounding cafes. The plaza is particularly magical during early morning and late afternoon when the light enhances the colonial facades.

Booking Tip: No booking required for the plaza itself, but consider joining a walking tour for 15,000-25,000 COP to learn about the history. Best visited early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for photos and cooler temperatures.

Visit Casa Terracota

This extraordinary house is the world's largest piece of pottery, built entirely from clay by architect Octavio Mendoza. The organic, cave-like structure blends seamlessly with the landscape and represents a unique form of sustainable architecture. Visitors can explore the interior rooms, terraces, and learn about the innovative construction techniques used.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 15,000 COP for adults. Open daily 9 AM-5 PM, but call ahead as hours can vary. Located 20 minutes from town center, so arrange transportation or join a tour that includes multiple sites.

Discover El Infiernito Archaeological Park

This pre-Columbian astronomical observatory features ancient stone columns aligned with celestial bodies, used by the Muisca people over 2,000 years ago. The site includes phallic-shaped monoliths and burial mounds that demonstrate the sophisticated astronomical knowledge of indigenous peoples. The park also offers hiking trails through beautiful Andean landscapes.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is approximately 8,000 COP. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9 AM-4 PM. Located 10km from Villa de Leyva, best visited with a guide who can explain the astronomical significance. Tours cost 50,000-80,000 COP including transportation.

Explore Fossil Museums and Sites

Villa de Leyva sits in one of Colombia's richest paleontological zones, with several museums showcasing marine fossils from when the area was underwater. The most famous find is a complete kronosaurus fossil, a marine reptile that lived 110 million years ago. Visitors can see actual excavation sites and learn about the region's prehistoric past.

Booking Tip: Museum entry ranges from 5,000-12,000 COP. El Fosil Museum is the most popular, open daily 9 AM-5 PM. Some sites offer fossil hunting experiences for 30,000-50,000 COP. Book through local tour operators for the best experience.

Visit Pozos Azules

These stunning turquoise pools are a hidden gem located about 45 minutes from Villa de Leyva, created by natural mineral springs that produce brilliant blue-green water. The pools are set in a desert-like landscape that contrasts dramatically with the surrounding green mountains. It's perfect for photography and a peaceful nature experience.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 10,000 COP. Best visited during dry season (December-March) when colors are most vibrant. Arrange transportation through your hotel or join a day tour for 60,000-100,000 COP including other nearby attractions. Bring sun protection as there's little shade.

Getting There

Villa de Leyva is located 165 kilometers northeast of Bogotá, approximately a 3-4 hour drive through scenic mountain roads. The most convenient option is to take a bus from Bogotá's Terminal del Norte to Tunja (2.5 hours, 15,000-20,000 COP), then transfer to a local bus to Villa de Leyva (45 minutes, 5,000 COP). Direct buses from Bogotá to Villa de Leyva are available on weekends and holidays with companies like Libertadores. Many visitors opt for rental cars for flexibility, though mountain driving requires caution. Private transfers can be arranged for 150,000-250,000 COP from Bogotá.

Getting Around

Villa de Leyva's historic center is compact and best explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the main plaza. The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. For sites outside town like Casa Terracota, El Infiernito, or Pozos Azules, you can hire taxis (negotiate rates beforehand), rent bicycles from local shops for 20,000-30,000 COP per day, or book tours that include transportation. Many hotels can arrange day trips or recommend reliable drivers for exploring the surrounding area.

Where to Stay

Historic Center
Plaza Mayor Area
Calle Real
Near Casa Museo Luis Alberto Acuña
Outskirts with Mountain Views
Boutique Hotels on Colonial Streets

Food & Dining

Villa de Leyva's culinary scene celebrates traditional Boyacense cuisine alongside international options. The town is famous for longaniza (spiced sausage), arepas boyacenses, and hearty soups perfect for the cool climate. Around the Plaza Mayor, you'll find charming restaurants in colonial buildings serving everything from typical Colombian dishes to Italian and French cuisine. Don't miss trying the local cheese, particularly the queso campesino, and pair meals with chicha, a traditional fermented corn beverage. Prices are reasonable, with typical meals ranging from 15,000-35,000 COP. Many restaurants feature cozy fireplaces and terraces with mountain views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Colombia

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When to Visit

Villa de Leyva enjoys a pleasant climate year-round due to its high altitude, with temperatures averaging 18-22°C (64-72°F) during the day and cooler evenings. The dry season from December to March offers the best weather for outdoor activities and clearest skies for photography. April to November brings more rain, usually in afternoon showers, but the landscape becomes lush and green. Weekends can be crowded with visitors from Bogotá, so weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of Lights in December and the Kite Festival in August, which are spectacular but require advance bookings.

Insider Tips

Bring layers and a light jacket as temperatures drop significantly in the evening, especially during the dry season
Visit the main plaza at different times of day - early morning offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds
Negotiate taxi fares to outside attractions beforehand, or ask your hotel to arrange transportation to avoid overcharging

Explore Activities in Villa de Leyva