How to Plan Your Villa de Leyva City Tour

If you are planning a visit to Colombia, you cannot miss Villa de Leyva, a picturesque colonial town located about 150 km north of Bogotá. This charming city has a lot to offer, and a Villa de Leyva City Tour is the perfect way to explore its highlights. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your 5-hour city tour with Gran Colombia Tours, so you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful town.

Overview of the Villa de Leyva City Tour

The Villa de Leyva City Tour is a guided tour that covers the main attractions of the town. You will start with a visit to the central square, known as Plaza Mayor, where you’ll admire the stunning colonial architecture and take some memorable photos. Then, you’ll continue to the Paleontological Museum, where you’ll learn about the fossils found in the area, including the giant Kronosaurus. Another highlight of the tour is the visit to Pozos Azules, an area with crystal clear blue water ponds that is sure to amaze you. Aside from the main attractions, the tour also includes gastronomic experiences with a typical Colombian lunch, and you’ll have the chance to buy souvenirs at one of the local craft markets.

What’s Included in the Villa de Leyva City Tour

The Villa de Leyva City Tour includes everything you need to have a great time. Here’s what’s included:

• A bilingual guide from Gran Colombia Tours who will share interesting facts and stories about Villa de Leyva
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation
• Gastronomic experiences, including a typical Colombian lunch, so you can taste the local cuisine
• Entrance fees to the Paleontological Museum and Pozos Azules, so you can enjoy the attractions without any additional costs
• Free time to explore the local craft markets and buy souvenirs

Meeting and Pickup for the Villa de Leyva City Tour

Gran Colombia Tours pick-up their clients anywhere within Villa de Leyva town, including hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and points of interest. When you book the tour, you’ll be asked to select a pickup point that is most convenient for you. The tour guide will contact you before the tour to confirm the pickup details and coordinate with you.

What to Expect on the Villa de Leyva City Tour

Here are some of the main stops you can expect on the Villa de Leyva City Tour:

1. Villa de Leyva

The tour starts with a visit to Villa de Leyva, a picturesque colonial town that has preserved its architecture and traditions over the years. You’ll walk around the narrow streets and admire the white-washed houses with red-tiled roofs.

2. Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is the main square of Villa de Leyva, and it’s the perfect place to start your tour. The square is surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, City Hall, and the House of Antonio Nariño, a hero of the independence movement.

3. Paleontological Museum

The Paleontological Museum of Villa de Leyva has an impressive collection of fossils from the region, including the remains of the Kronosaurus, a prehistoric marine reptile. You’ll learn about the geological history of the area and see how fossils are extracted and preserved.

4. Pozos Azules

Pozos Azules is a unique and impressive natural attraction located a few kilometers from Villa de Leyva. The site consists of several ponds with crystal-clear blue water, surrounded by rocks and trees. You can take a refreshing swim in the ponds, or simply enjoy the views.

Additional Info for the Villa de Leyva City Tour

Here are some additional details you may want to know:

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible
• The meeting point is near public transportation
• You should keep hydrated constantly and use sunscreen during the tour, especially if you’re visiting during the warm months (December to February)
• Pozos Azules is closed on Mondays, but the guide will give you options for another interest point according to your interests
• The Paleontological Museum is closed on Mondays, but the guide will give you options for another museum according to your interests

Cancellation Policy for the Villa de Leyva City Tour

Gran Colombia Tours have a flexible cancellation policy that allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. If you need to cancel your reservation, simply contact the company at least one day before the tour.

Book the Villa de Leyva City Tour Now

If you’re ready to explore Villa de Leyva and its main attractions, book the Villa de Leyva City Tour with Gran Colombia Tours. This 5-hour guided tour is the best way to discover the beauty and history of this colonial town, while enjoying gastronomic experiences and meeting friendly locals. Book here and have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Villa De Leyva, Colombia

Villa De Leyva is a beautiful colonial town located in the Boyacá Department of Colombia. It is a popular tourist destination due to its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to Villa De Leyva.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Villa De Leyva?

The best time to visit Villa De Leyva is between December and February or July and August, which are the driest and the warmest months of the year. This means that you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, bike riding, horseback riding, and exploring the town’s historical sites without worrying about rain or cold weather. However, keep in mind that these are also the busiest months, so accommodation rates may be higher, and the town may be more crowded.

2. How Do I Get to Villa De Leyva?

Villa De Leyva is located approximately 160 kilometers from Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia. The easiest way to get there is by car, either by renting one or by taking a taxi. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Bogotá’s bus terminal to Tunja, and from there another bus to Villa De Leyva. The journey takes around three hours in total.

3. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Villa De Leyva?

Villa De Leyva has several must-see attractions, including:

• The Plaza Mayor: This is one of the largest cobblestone squares in South America and is surrounded by beautifully preserved colonial buildings, restaurants, and cafes.
• The Iglesia Parroquial: This is the town’s main church, which was built in the 17th century and is known for its Baroque architecture.
• The Paleontological Museum: This museum houses one of the largest collections of fossils in Colombia and the world.
• The Pozos Azules: These natural blue-water ponds are located outside the town and are a popular attraction for swimming and relaxation.
• The Antonio Nariño Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Antonio Nariño, a national hero who played a pivotal role in Colombia’s independence from Spain.

4. What Are Some Outdoor Activities That I Can Do in Villa De Leyva?

Villa De Leyva has several outdoor activities that you can enjoy, including:

• Hiking: There are several hiking trails around the town that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and mountains.
• Bike Riding: You can rent a bike and explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Horseback Riding: You can take a guided horseback riding tour and explore the countryside and mountains around Villa De Leyva.
• Paragliding: You can take a tandem paragliding tour and enjoy breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding countryside from above.

5. What Are Some Local Products That I Should Try in Villa De Leyva?

Villa De Leyva is known for several local products that you should try, including:

• Empanadas: These are deep-fried pastries filled with beef or chicken, onions, potatoes, and spices.
• Arequipe: This is a type of caramel spread that is made from condensed milk and is used as a topping for bread, crackers, and desserts.
• Chicha: This is a traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented corn and is usually served with a piece of cheese or a slice of bread.
• Handicrafts: Villa De Leyva has several handicraft stores that sell locally made products such as pottery, textiles, jewelry, and leather goods.

6. What Are Some Accommodation Options in Villa De Leyva?

Villa De Leyva has several accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including:

• Hotels: There are several hotels in and around the town that offer comfortable rooms, amenities, and services.
• Hostels: There are several hostels in the town that offer affordable shared or private rooms and communal areas for socializing.
• Airbnbs: You can find several Airbnb listings in and around the town that offer unique and authentic accommodation options.

7. What Are Some Safety Tips for Traveling to Villa De Leyva?

Villa De Leyva is a safe town to visit, but here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid walking alone at night in the outskirts of the town.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use common sense when exploring the countryside and mountains around Villa De Leyva.
• Follow the advice and recommendations of your hotel or hostel staff, especially when it comes to transportation and excursion arrangements.

Book Your Tour Now

Villa De Leyva is a charming town that offers plenty of cultural, natural, and historical attractions and activities. By following these frequently asked questions and tips, you can plan your trip to Villa De Leyva easily and safely and make the most out of your experience in this beautiful and unique Colombian destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Villa De Leyva

Villa De Leyva is a charming and historic town located in the Boyaca Department of Colombia. The town is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and scenic countryside. There are plenty of things to see and do in Villa De Leyva, from exploring ancient fossils to sampling traditional Colombian cuisine. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your time as a tourist in Villa De Leyva.

1. Explore the Main Square

The heart of Villa De Leyva is its stunning main square, known as Plaza Mayor. The square is the largest in South America and is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, including the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Town Hall. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the square and admire the views or find a café to relax and watch the world go by.

2. Visit the Casa Terracota

One of the most unusual attractions in Villa De Leyva is the Casa Terracota, a house made entirely out of clay. The house is designed to be an eco-friendly home, with features such as a living roof and a natural ventilation system. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its construction and design.

3. Explore the Museum of Antonio Nariño

Antonio Nariño was an important figure in the history of Colombia, known for his work as a revolutionary and politician. The Museum of Antonio Nariño is dedicated to his life and legacy and contains artifacts such as personal belongings, letters, and documents. Visitors can learn about the history of the region and its important figures, as well as the life of Antonio Nariño himself.

4. Visit the Pozos Azules

The Pozos Azules, or Blue Pools, are a series of natural blue pools located just outside of Villa De Leyva. The pools are formed from groundwater that has been filtered through rocks and minerals, creating a brilliant blue color. Visitors can take a dip in the pools or simply admire the stunning views.

5. Take a Hike in the Countryside

The surrounding countryside of Villa De Leyva is beautiful and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a hike through the mountains and valleys, stopping to admire waterfalls and wildlife along the way. There are also plenty of opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking, and bird watching in the area.

6. Learn About Ancient Fossils

The region around Villa De Leyva is known for its ancient fossils, including many from the Cretaceous period. Visitors can learn about these fossils at the Paleontological Museum, which contains a wide range of artifacts and displays. The museum also offers guided tours of the surrounding countryside, where visitors can see fossils in their natural environment.

7. Sample Traditional Colombian Cuisine

No visit to Villa De Leyva would be complete without sampling some of the delicious traditional Colombian cuisine on offer. Visitors can try local dishes such as ajiaco, a hearty soup made with chicken and potatoes, or bandeja paisa, a dish featuring beans, rice, sausage, and avocado. There are also plenty of opportunities to sample fresh fruits and vegetables at the local markets. In conclusion, Villa De Leyva is a fascinating town with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or cuisine, there is something for everyone. By following the tips in this guide, you can make the most of your time in Villa De Leyva and create memories that will last a lifetime.