Things To Do
in La Calera
La Calera sits on the eastern slopes of the Andes above Bogotá. Its cool climate and panoramic views draw day-trippers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town blends rural charm with easy access to the capital's cultural offerings.
With coffee farms, viewpoints, and forest trails, it's a refreshing escape from the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Colombian coffee and arepas. Afterward, take a guided walking tour through La Calera's historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the Basilica Menor de La Calera, an impressive church that showcases the town's rich history.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Colombian cuisine at a nearby restaurant, where you can try bandeja paisa or sancocho. Post-lunch, explore the local artisan markets, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the culture of the region. Spend some time at the scenic Parque Principal, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps enjoying a local ice cream.
As the sun sets, head to a rooftop bar for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Enjoy a cocktail or local beer while the vibrant colors of dusk paint the sky. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the sounds of live music and the warm ambiance of the streets.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided tour to a nearby coffee farm. Learn about the entire coffee production process, from bean cultivation to brewing, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the lush green hills. Participate in a coffee tasting session to appreciate the diverse flavors of Colombian coffee.
After your coffee experience, enjoy a traditional lunch at the farm featuring local ingredients and regional dishes. Spend the afternoon hiking through the coffee plantation trails, where you can observe the stunning flora and fauna of the region. Keep your camera ready for some fantastic photo opportunities of the picturesque landscape.
Return to La Calera and unwind at a cozy café, sipping on a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Engage with locals and learn more about their daily lives and traditions. As night falls, enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, trying out more Colombian specialties.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi start (within town) | $1-2 |
| 🏠1-bedroom rent in city center | $250-500 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain views and easy access to Bogotá
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife within La Calera itself
- Variable road congestion during peak times
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in La Calera
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook of the Bogotá Valley with sunrise lighting and long-range mountain silhouettes.
High hillside vantage point ideal for golden hour and sweeping valley shots.
Shaded forest path with dappled light, ferns, and wildlife, great for nature portraits.
Historic plaza with colonial architecture and warm evening light for street photography.
Food in La Calera
La Calera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional chicken, potato, and corn soup popular in Bogotá and the highlands. Usually served with capers, cream, and avocado.
Must-Try!
A comforting milk and egg soup often enjoyed for breakfast with bread and cilantro.
Sweet corn arepa, often served with cheese, perfect for a midday snack.
Grilled trout caught in nearby streams, commonly seasoned with garlic and herbs; pairs well with potatoes or rice.
Steamed cornmeal envelopes filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, a staple at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market with fresh produce, arepas, empanadas, and juice stalls along the central street.
Stretching vendors offer frutas, snacks, and light meals suitable for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly buen dia or buenas tardes; polite to smile and make eye contact; avoid interrupting during meals.
Dress modestly in rural areas; be respectful when discussing local customs, history, and politics.
Safety
Tipping in La Calera
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, leaving around 10% is appreciated if service is not included; rounding up is common in informal spots.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places also accept mobile payments; ATMs are available in neighboring towns; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and good visibility for viewpoints; cooler nights; occasional light showers possible.
Afternoon downpours are common; carry a compact rain shell and quick-dry clothing. Trails can become slippery.
A mix of sun and showers; excellent conditions for hiking and birdwatching; crowds are moderate.
Similar to April–May; bring waterproofs and sturdy footwear for wet trails.
La Calera at Night
Hiking in La Calera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hike with panoramic city views and forest scenery.
Forest trail leading to cascades and clear streams; good for a half-day excursion.
High-altitude hikes with páramo landscapes and wildlife; require a day trip from La Calera.
Short-to-moderate loop around the historic lake: scenic with cultural significance.
Airports
How to reach La Calera by plane.
Bogotá's main international airport; reachable by car or bus from La Calera with connections worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly local Colombian families and commuters, Spanish-speaking with a mix of rural and urban influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular daytime and weekend activity at local fields; matches and informal games around the region.
Hillside roads attract road cyclists and mountain bikers; good training routes with sweeping scenery.
The nearby páramo and foothill habitats attract variety of birds to observe in early mornings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Calera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options such as bean dishes, rice plates, salads, and corn-based foods. Inform the staff about dairy or egg needs, and consider visiting farms that prepare vegetable-forward meals.