Things To Do
in Lenguazaque
Lenguazaque is a small Andean town on the northern edge of the Sabana de Bogotá, surrounded by rolling green hills and farmland. The town exudes rural charm with a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere perfect for Slow Travel. Visitors can sample hearty highland cuisine, explore modest markets, and enjoy short hikes that reveal striking Andean vistas.
Its tranquil pace and scenic landscapes make it a great base for day trips into the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling Colombian coffee and arepas. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of the town, taking in the charming colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the culture and interact with friendly vendors.
Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a family-owned restaurant, sampling regional specialties like bandeja paisa. Spend your afternoon hiking through the verdant landscapes surrounding Lenguazaque, where you can explore lush trails and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside. Capture the beauty of the area with photos of its remarkable flora and fauna.
As the sun sets, gather with locals at a central plaza and experience the community's vibrant atmosphere. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nearby bistro that features fresh, local ingredients. End your day by attending a cultural event or live music performance that showcases Colombia's rich traditions.
After breakfast, head out for a scenic drive to the nearby Laguna de Guatavita, a sacred lake with a rich history linked to the indigenous Muisca culture. Explore the surrounding nature reserve and take part in guided tours that share the legends and myths of the lake. Bring your camera to capture the serene beauty of the shimmering waters and lush greenery.
Have a picnic lunch in the nature reserve, enjoying the stunning views as you relax in the tranquility of the landscape. In the afternoon, visit a local artisan village nearby, where you can witness traditional crafts being made and purchase unique souvenirs. Engage with the artisans and learn about their time-honored techniques and stories.
Return to Lenguazaque and indulge in a gourmet dinner at an acclaimed restaurant that emphasizes local flavors. Spend the evening strolling through the charming streets, enjoying the playful atmosphere under the starlit sky. Consider sampling local desserts from street vendors and soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil highland town with authentic local experiences
- Affordable food and lodging
- Access to scenic rural landscapes and short hikes
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Public transport can be infrequent; plan ahead
- Altitude can cause mild fatigue for some visitors
- Seasonal rains can affect road conditions and accessibility
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Lenguazaque
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on church façades and the central square, ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Elevated spots that overlook the savanna, farmland, and distant hills for wide, sweeping shots.
Classic colonial church architecture with ornate doors and quiet exterior details.
Reflections in calm water and long shadows along rural river paths offer tranquil compositions.
Golden hour over corn and potato terraces creates dramatic landscape imagery.
Food in Lenguazaque
Lenguazaque Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Corn dough filled with meat and vegetables, wrapped in leaves and steamed; common at markets and family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa often served with cheese; a popular breakfast or snack option.
Hearty rib and potato soup, a comfort dish especially in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market with fresh produce, cheeses, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit sold by vendors in the evenings; great for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or cheek kissing on one or two cheeks; use formal titles like señor/señora in first meetings.
Small talk about family and farming life is common; avoid sensitive topics such as politics.
Modest attire is appreciated in public spaces and places of worship; a light jacket helps at night.
Safety
Tipping in Lenguazaque
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is typical if service is not included. Rounding up fare to the next peso is common for taxis.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in town; many shops take cards in larger establishments; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and pleasant days make outdoor exploring and photography easiest; evenings can be cool.
Afternoon showers are common; trails may become muddy, so pack rain gear and sturdy waterproof boots.
Lenguazaque at Night
Hiking in Lenguazaque
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate ridge hike with panoramic views over the savanna and village scenery.
A scenic loop through hillside farms with occasional shaded forest and viewpoints.
Longer day trek into high-altitude páramo landscapes with unique flora and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Lenguazaque by plane.
Bogotá’s major international gateway; typically 2-3 hours by road to Lenguazaque depending on traffic.
A smaller airport near Bogotá used for private flights and flight training; closer to the capital.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Town residents who work in local markets and services, often family-centered.
Smallholder farmers in the surrounding countryside rely on dairy and crops.
Domestic and international travelers seeking a quiet highland aesthetic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and schools.
Cycling is popular due to the Andean terrain and scenic rural routes.
Horse riding and rural rodeo events are part of local culture in some communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lenguazaque.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most establishments can offer vegetarian options; look for soups, arepas, salads, and bean dishes. If strict, ask for no carne and confirm cheese is made with vegetarian rennet.