Things To Do
in Facatativá
Facatativá is a small city on the Bogotá Savannah, northwest of Bogotá, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland that give it a relaxed pace. It blends colonial-era architecture with modern Colombian life, inviting visitors to wander colorful streets and plazas. The town serves as a convenient base for day trips to nearby natural areas and archaeological sites while still feeling authentic and local.
With easy access from the capital, Facatativá balances history, nature, and warm hospitality in a manageable, scenic setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de los Libertadores, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and the serene atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring arepas and fresh coffee. As you stroll through the streets, take in the vibrant murals and local art that adorn the buildings.
After lunch, head to the Museo de Facatativá to learn about the rich history and culture of the region, including the pre-Columbian artifacts on display. Wander through the historic streets, visiting the 19th-century Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, where you can appreciate its stunning architecture. Don't forget to stop by local artisan shops to pick up unique handmade crafts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to indulge in traditional Colombian dishes, such as bandeja paisa or sancocho. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather to share stories and laughter over dinner. End your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the charm of the illuminated historic center.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike through the Parque Arqueológico de Facatativá, where you can explore ancient rock formations and stunning landscapes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including colorful birds and playful monkeys, as you traverse the scenic trails. Stop at viewpoints along the way to capture breathtaking photos of the surrounding hills and valleys.
After a picnic lunch in the park, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Laguna de Facatativá, a peaceful lake surrounded by lush greenery. Take a canoe out onto the water for a serene experience, or simply relax on the shore with a good book. As you enjoy the tranquility, look for the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.
Return to the town and treat yourself to a light dinner at a local eatery, sampling fresh fish or a vegetable stir-fry. Spend your evening at a local café, chatting with residents or fellow travelers, and perhaps trying your hand at some Colombian coffee. As night falls, stroll through the quiet streets, enjoying the calm ambiance of Facatativá.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transit ticket | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $25-50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Bogota and easy day trips
- Quiet, authentic town feel with friendly locals
- Pleasant climate suitable for outdoor activities
- Good value for money and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller selection of international cuisine and big-brand options
- Occasional language barrier outside tourist spots
- Travel times to larger attractions can be longer in peak traffic
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in Facatativá
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial facades, cobblestone streets, and vibrant life around the main plaza offer classic photography opportunities.
Small lookout points on the hills surrounding the town provide sweeping views of the Bogotá savanna.
Archaeological sites and related markers offer opportunities to capture history and landscape together.
Narrow lanes decorated with murals and stairs create dynamic compositions for street photography.
Food in Facatativá
Facatativá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa stuffed with melted local cheese, a popular breakfast or snack.
Must-Try!
Hearty rural soup with corn, plantain, yuca, and meat or chicken, served with rice and avocado.
Crispy fried pork served with boiled yuca and lime, common in taverns and casual eateries.
Steamed corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, wrapped in plantain leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central market offering fresh produce, coffee, arepas, and regional snacks.
Casual bites like arepas, empanadas, sliced fruit, and freshly squeezed juices prepared on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and use polite forms such as usted when addressing strangers or elders.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in public spaces and respect quiet neighborhoods.
Tipping is customary but modest; manage cash tips directly at the table if appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Facatativá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5–10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for cafes and bars are appreciated but not obligatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in established places; carry some cash (COP) for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer stretches of sun and clearer skies; ideal for outdoor activities, photography at viewpoints, and city walks.
Frequent rain, lush greenery, and soft light; good for moody landscape photos and fewer crowds, but plan for rain gear.
Facatativá at Night
Hiking in Facatativá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular nearby hiking area with waterfall views and limestone scenery, suitable for a half-day trip.
Scenic rural trails along the edge of the savanna offering panoramic vistas of the valley.
High-altitude landscapes offering longer hikes and dramatic landscapes; more time and planning required.
Airports
How to reach Facatativá by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region; accessible by car or bus from Facatativá; plan for traffic during peak hours.
Smaller airfields may exist in the broader Cundinamarca region for private flights or charter services; most travelers fly into Bogotá first.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who commute to Bogotá for work or study, contributing to a modern, service-oriented local economy.
Several schools and colleges serve the area, giving Facatativá a youthful, community-focused vibe.
Many residents work in farming and local markets, maintaining traditional cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport, with local games and informal street play common in plazas and parks.
Road and mountain biking are popular, with scenic routes around the savanna and hills.
Common in parks and schools; community clubs and local tournaments sometimes available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Facatativá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable-based soups, arepas reheated with cheese, salads, and legumes; many places can adapt dishes if you request without meat.