Mochiliante
Mochiliante
Villa de Leyva is a must-see tourist destination in Colombia. Located in the department of Boyacá, this charming colonial town is known for its rich history, well-preserved colonial architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes.
In this article, we will take you on a tour of the main tourist attractions of Villa de Leyva, give you some travel tips, and show you why this place should be on your list of destinations to visit.
Villa de Leyva is a charming Colombian town located in the department of Boyacá, in the Andean region of Colombia. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,144 meters above sea level, it enjoys a temperate climate.
This picturesque place is about three hours by car from Bogotá and is known for its Plaza Mayor, which is one of the largest squares in Latin America.
To get to Villa de Leyva from Bogotá, you can take a bus from the Salitre Transport Terminal or the North terminal. The price of the journey is approximately $35,000 COP and it will take you to the Villa de Leyva Terminal, which is a few minutes walk from the historic center.
Tip: You can also opt to rent a car and enjoy a road trip through the beautiful landscapes of Boyacá. We have sometimes rented a vehicle through Localiza, we recommend it as it has never given us problems, but you can also search on your own.
If you plan to travel between today and September 30, 2025 , by booking through Booking with Mochiliante, you can get a 20% discount or more on your next getaway by clicking here
In Villa de Leyva, you have accommodations for all tastes and budgets, from boutique hotels in the historic center to cozy cabins in the surroundings of the town. Some recommended places are:
Sie Casa Hotel: It is only 300 meters from the Main Square, offers parking, restaurant and bar. In addition, nearby you will find attractions such as the Carmen Museum and the Iguaque national park. An ideal place for your stay! Click here to book.
Hotel Jardines De La Villa: 100 meters from the Main Square. They offer free parking, a charming garden and are close to the Carmen Museum. In addition, they have a 24-hour reception and free WiFi. Click here to book.
La Casa de Chavela 400 meters from the Main Square, offers non-smoking rooms, free Wi-Fi and a charming garden. In addition, they have family rooms for a comfortable stay. Click here to book.
Founded in 1572 by Captain Hernán Suárez de Villalobos, Villa de Leyva was conceived as a place of rest for the Spanish aristocracy and a trading center in the region. This picturesque town preserves its colonial architecture intact, with cobblestone streets, white houses, and wooden balconies that transport its visitors to the past.
Over the centuries, its cultural and historical wealth has been complemented by paleontological discoveries of great importance, including fossils of prehistoric marine reptiles, which make this place a real treasure for lovers of history and science.
Villa de Leyva: a destination that promises to amaze you at every step.
Walk around the Plaza Mayor: Walk around the cobblestone square and visit the restaurants and shops around it. It's a perfect activity to enjoy as a couple or with friends, while admiring the landscape.
Kite Festival (in August): A colorful spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the country. Participants show their skill in making and flying kites, creating a unique visual spectacle. In addition, during the festival, you can enjoy music, dances, and activities for the whole family.
ATV rental: Live an exciting adventure traveling rural roads and discovering unique landscapes around the town. ATVs are an excellent option for those looking for something different and fun.
Visit the Paleontological Museum: Discover the prehistoric secrets of the region, we tell you more in our Museum Blog The Fossil in Villa de Leyva
Pozos Azules: This set of small crystal clear water lagoons is ideal for relaxing and enjoying a unique landscape. The colors of the wells and their natural environment offer an unforgettable experience for visitors. Bring your camera to capture the magic of the place.
Photo by: Juan David Moreno
Villa de Leyva Book Fair. If you are a lover of literature, you cannot miss the Villa de Leyva Book Fair. This annual event brings together writers, publishers, and book lovers from all over the country. During the fair, you can enjoy book presentations, talks with recognized authors, and cultural activities related to literature.
Photo by: The Book Fair
Villa de Leyva not only offers attractions within the town, but also in its surroundings. You can make a tourist route that includes visits to nearby places such as the Santo Ecce Homo Monastery, the Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, and the Monquirá Archaeological Park.
Photo by: Sergio Colmenares
During your visit to Villa de Leyva, you cannot miss trying the delicious cuisine of the region. Boyacá is known for its traditional dishes such as fritanga, wheat cuchuco, and mazamorra.
Photo by La Feria Piqueteadero
Before packing your bags for your trip to Villa de Leyva, here are some useful tips to make sure you have the best experience in this charming Colombian destination.
Bring appropriate clothing for the weather, as Villa de Leyva can be cold, especially at night.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Explore the town on foot to fully enjoy its colonial charm and discover its most picturesque corners.
The inhabitants of Villa de Leyva are friendly and welcoming. Take the opportunity to interact with them and learn more about the local culture.
Keep cash with you, as some places do not accept cards.
If you are traveling in high season, book your accommodation in advance.
Is it a good destination to travel with children? Yes! There are educational activities such as the Paleontological Museum and plenty of space to run and play in the Plaza Mayor.
Can you travel with pets? Many hotels are pet-friendly, but check before booking. In addition, most outdoor sites allow pets.
What is the climate like in Villa de Leyva? The climate is temperate and dry, with temperatures ranging between 14°C and 22°C. Bring a light jacket for the evenings.
And with that, we say goodbye for now. We hope you enjoy your visit to Villa de Leyva to the fullest and that you take precious memories with you. Until the next adventure, backpacker (Mochiliante)! 😁😉
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