Discovering Tranquility in Villa de Leyva

So you have been wandering the beautiful streets of La Candelaria in Bogota for a couple of days. And while you have been loving every moment of Colombia’s capital city, you are feeling the need to get away from the hustle and bustle of a large city.

But where can you go to have some peace and quiet? A place that seems to have stopped in time and where you can wander the streets and sit peacefully.

That place is Villa de Leyva.

How far is Villa de Leyva from Bogota?

Villa de Leyva is located about 160km to 185km from Bogota depending on the route you take to get there. However, because of the mountainous terrain and twisty roads it will take 3.5 – 4.5 hours to get there.

So you will probably want to book a night or two in a hostel or at an Air BnB.

Villa de Leyva boasts the largest square in Colombia, the Plaza Mayor, spanning over 150,000 square feet and ranking among the most awe-inspiring in South America.

Beyond its colonial architecture, Villa de Leyva is distinguished by its myriad rural landscapes, stretching from the moor to the desert.

With a plethora of activities catering to history enthusiasts, science aficionados, art lovers, culture connoisseurs, and nature admirers, Villa de Leyva emerges as the ideal destination for a multifaceted exploration.

Things to do in Villa de Leyva

Exploring Villa de Leyva independently and on foot is a breeze. The town’s compact size ensures you won’t lose your way, offering the convenience of unhurried strolls.

Related: How to Embrace Slow Travel and Experience Authenticity

Embracing the freedom to wander without a predefined plan, there is joy in following your instincts. The charming streets consistently lead you to delightful discoveries. Rest assured, there’s no need to fret about missing any top attractions or must-visit spots in this quaint town.

Wondering what to explore in Villa de Leyva? Strap on your comfortable shoes as you embark on a historical journey through the municipality. This is the time to embrace to concept of “slow travel.“

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Begin with the remarkable Plaza Mayor, characterized by its colonial charm—stone flooring, a central fountain, and buildings retaining their original architecture. The square houses City Hall offices, museums, hotels, and shopping passages.

Nearby, the magnificent Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, constructed in 1604, showcases colonial baroque architecture, complete with wood-carved altarpieces adorned in gold.

Venture beyond the historic center to discover additional attractions. The Museo Prehistórico displays sculptures of dinosaurs and fossils discovered in the region. The Museo Paleontológico, featuring fossils from the Cretaceous period, houses 2,425 pieces, with 441 on exhibit, all within a colonial-era gem dating back to 1570.

Villa de Leyva boasts a fossil museum, the Museo El Fósil, established in 1977 after local farmers discovered the most complete pliosaur fossil, Kronosaurus boyacensis hampe. This museum showcases this remarkable specimen, a testament to the region’s prehistoric legacy.

Related: Colombia’s Most Popular National Parks

Conclude your journey with a tour of the desert area, culminating in the breathtaking Pozos Azules (blue pools), just over a mile from Villa de Leyva. While these man-made pools are on private property, an entry fee allows visitors to witness the mesmerizing interplay of greenish-blue hues, a captivating contrast against the desert and surrounding nature. Without a doubt, Pozos Azules is a must-visit location during your time in Villa de Leyva.

Villa de Leyva beckons as an ideal destination year-round, offering a myriad of attractions. While the town’s charm is ever-present, marking specific festivals on your calendar enhances your experience.

The Festival del Árbol (Tree Festival) champions environmental protection, showcasing diverse plants.

If the timing of your trip is right, film enthusiasts will relish the Villa Film Festival and the International Independent Film Festival, featuring screenings, workshops, and cultural experiences.

August brings the National Wind and Kite Festival, a vibrant celebration of the region’s winds with colorful kite displays.

In December, the town transforms with Christmas lights and a festive program including exhibitions and choirs.

Villa de Leyva’s night sky, conducive to stargazing, hosts the Astronomy Festival, where telescopes in Plaza Mayor offer a celestial spectacle.

Beyond festivals, the town offers myriad activities, from leisurely strolls to indulging in local cuisines like famed meat preparations.

Thrill-seekers can partake in hiking, rappelling, and zip-lining, while the Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary unveils Lake Iguaque, considered the Muisca cradle of humanity.

Accommodations vary from hotels to camping, with tourism companies catering to diverse preferences.

I would check out Hostel Once Once. Very affordable and very nice.

The average temperature is around 64 °F, with a jacket recommended for cooler nights and sunscreen essential for daytime ventures.

Embrace these recommendations to unlock the charm of Villa de Leyva, a town steeped in colonial heritage. You may find that it is hard to leave.

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