Colombia · August 2023
Overview
Villa de Leyva is a highland colonial town with one of the largest cobbled main squares in South America, surrounded by whitewashed buildings and a relaxed, historic atmosphere. The town is a favorite weekend escape for Bogotá residents and a hub for paleontology, crafts, and slow travel. Nearby attractions include fossil sites, wineries, and desertlike landscapes that contrast with the town’s cool mountain air.
History & Stay
Quick Facts
Location
Villa de Leyva sits in the Boyacá highlands about three hours by road from Bogotá; the town’s plaza is the focal point for markets and festivals.
Budget
Cards work in cities but street food and small towns are cash-only. Currency is the Colombian Peso (COP, ~4,000 per USD).
Things to Do
The enormous Plaza Mayor is the town’s heart and a perfect place to sit with a coffee, watch local life, and admire colonial facades and churches. Nearby museums and artisan shops reward slow exploration.
de Leyva is near important fossil beds and small museums that display marine reptiles and other finds from when the region was underwater. A guided visit explains the geology and the significance of the discoveries.
Short drives from town reveal striking blue pools and semiarid landscapes that are excellent for photography and short hikes. These sites are fragile—respect signage and local guidance.
Transit Tips
Villa de Leyva is most easily reached by private transfer or bus from Bogotá; roads are good but allow time for scenic stops. The town is compact and best explored on foot.
Uber operates in a legal grey zone here. InDriver lets you name your own fare, which is often the cheapest option.
Medellin's metro is the pride of the city and impressively clean. Load a Civica or one time card at any station.
For hops like Bogota to Cartagena, flying beats a 20 hour bus ride. Book Avianca or Latam a few weeks ahead.
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