Things To Do
in Cota
Cota is a tranquil highland town in Cundinamarca, just northwest of Bogotá, set among rolling hills and green farmland. It blends rural charm with easy access to the capital’s amenities, offering fresh air, scenic viewpoints, and a relaxed pace. The town’s colonial church, plazas, and farmers’ markets give a taste of traditional Colombian life in a cool, inviting climate.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat with the option to explore nearby nature and quick day trips to Bogotá.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. Afterward, stroll through the historic streets of Cota, taking in the charming colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Stop by the Plaza de Cota to admire the beautiful church and soak in the local atmosphere.
Visit the local artisan markets to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, where you can interact with friendly vendors and learn about their crafts. Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes like bandeja paisa or ajiaco. In the afternoon, consider a guided tour of the area’s historical sites, including the beautiful Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in a local bar or café to enjoy a glass of aguardiente, a popular Colombian spirit. Engage in conversation with locals or fellow travelers while listening to live music that showcases Colombia’s rich cultural heritage. End your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, taking in the twinkling lights of the town.
After breakfast, set off early for a nature walk in the nearby La Calera area, famous for its stunning views of the Andean mountains. Hike along the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of local wildlife. Capture the breathtaking landscapes with your camera, as the morning light casts a golden hue on the mountains.
Take a break and enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene environment of La Calera. Afterward, continue your exploration by visiting a local farm or eco-park, where you can learn about sustainable farming practices and perhaps even participate in some activities. The afternoon heat might invite a dip in a nearby natural pool, refreshing you for the rest of the day.
Head back to Cota and unwind at a local restaurant, trying out some fresh trout dishes sourced from nearby rivers. Engage in conversations with locals about their connection to nature and the importance of ecological conservation. As night falls, consider joining a local guided night walk to experience the area’s nocturnal wildlife and the sounds of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Bogotá with easy access to capital amenities
- Peaceful, scenic highland setting with fresh air and rural charm
- Limited nightlife and amenities within Cota itself
- Traffic to and from Bogotá can be heavy during peak hours
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido" - I'm lost
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Cota
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated viewpoint with sweeping vistas of the Bogotá savanna and the distant city skyline; ideal at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.
Historic white-washed church with a bell tower and colonial charm, perfect for architectural photography and capturing town life.
Rolling farmland and hillside terraces offering rural scenery, particularly striking during golden hour and harvest seasons.
Food in Cota
Cota Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken, potato, and corn soup seasoned with guasca; widely available in traditional eateries and perfect for cooler evenings.
Must-Try!
A corn-based flatbread typically filled or served with cheese, meat, or eggs; a staple on local menus.
A comforting potato-based broth often enriched with herbs and cream; common in casual dining spots.
Milk-based breakfast soup with eggs and scallions; a regional morning favorite in the highlands.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, dairy, meat, and street-style snacks to sample throughout the day.
Portable bites such as arepas, empanadas, tamales, and coffee for a quick tasting while you stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a light kiss on the cheek among close friends; address elders with Señor/Señora; use polite language and manners.
Be punctual for appointments; casual chats are common; avoid sensitive or confrontational topics with strangers until you know them well.
Dress modestly for religious sites and modest daywear in rural areas; keep a respectful demeanor in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Cota
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10% is customary if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff; cash tips are appreciated.
Cash (COP) and card payments are widely accepted; many places accept credit/debit cards; mobile payments and QR-based options are becoming more common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer periods of clear skies with comfortable daytime temperatures; mornings can be misty; ideal for outdoor walks and viewpoints.
Afternoon showers and higher humidity; carry a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket; lush greenery and fewer crowds make for vibrant photography.
Variable weather with intermittent rain; good for photographers who don’t mind shifting light and catching moody skies.
Cota at Night
Hiking in Cota
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hillside trails offering valley views and countryside scenery.
High-altitude hikes with open grasslands and cool winds; bring layers and sturdy footwear.
Airports
How to reach Cota by plane.
Bogotá’s primary international gateway; approximately 30–60 minutes by car from Cota, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families commuting to Bogotá for work or study.
Agricultural communities tied to hillside farms.
Some residents work in nearby towns or Bogotá, seeking a quieter hometown.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport at schools and local clubs.
Road cycling and mountain biking on rural roads and hills.
Local stables offer guided countryside rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cota.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available via plant-based dishes, legumes, fresh produce, and grains; ask for vegetable-heavy preparations and confirm broths or stocks in soups.