Things To Do
in Cachipay
Cachipay is a small Andean town in Cundinamarca, northwest of Bogotá, perched on the hillside with sweeping valley views. The area is known for coffee farms, green terraces, and a friendly rural atmosphere that invites slow travel. Visitors can explore a colonial church, local markets, and trails that wind through farms and forested hills.
With a mild highland climate and warm hospitality, Cachipay offers an authentic slice of rural Colombia just a short ride from the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the historic center of Cachipay, savoring traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. Afterward, wander through the charming streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and rich culture. Don't forget to visit the main square, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Church of San Juan Bautista.
After a morning of exploration, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious lunch featuring local specialties such as bandeja paisa. Post-lunch, take a guided walking tour to discover the history behind Cachipay's landmarks, including its fascinating murals and sculptures. Engage with the friendly locals, who are often eager to share stories about their town's heritage and traditions.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local bar to enjoy a refreshing drink while soaking in the lively atmosphere. You might catch a glimpse of street performers showcasing their talents, adding to the vibrant nightlife. Finally, indulge in a traditional dinner at a family-run restaurant, sampling authentic Colombian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a trip to one of the nearby coffee farms, where you can see the coffee-making process firsthand. Participate in a guided tour that takes you through the lush plantations, learning about the cultivation and harvesting of coffee beans. Enjoy a tasting session to appreciate the different flavors and aromas of Colombian coffee.
After the coffee experience, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring fresh ingredients sourced directly from the farm. Spend your afternoon learning about sustainable farming practices and the importance of coffee in Colombian culture. You might also have the chance to pick coffee beans yourself, adding a hands-on experience to your visit.
Return to Cachipay and relax at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s adventures. For dinner, try a local eatery known for its coffee-infused dishes, blending unique flavors with traditional recipes. Cap off the evening by enjoying a leisurely stroll through the town, illuminated by soft lights and the sounds of nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee in a local café | $1-2 |
| 🚎One-way local transport | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍺Beer at a local bar | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Basic lodging per night | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil, scenic setting just outside Bogotá
- Rich coffee culture and rural charm
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Occasional road conditions and limited public transport
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
Places to Visit in Cachipay
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop lookout offering sweeping views of the Andean foothills and the valley below, ideal at sunrise or sunset.
Terraced coffee farms on rolling slopes provide classic lines for landscape photography and harvest-time color.
Historic church and bustling plaza with colonial architecture, perfect for candid street photography.
Riverside scenes with wooden bridges and reflections in the late afternoon light.
Food in Cachipay
Cachipay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa filled with soft cheese, a popular street-side snack in town markets.
Must-Try!
Hearty soup with meat (often chicken or pork), yucca, plantain, and potatoes, typically served with rice and avocado.
Tamales made with masa, meat, and vegetables wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed.
Beans stew served with white rice and fresh herbs for a comforting rural meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small-town market where locals buy produce, cheeses, arepas, and seasonal snacks.
Arepas, empanadas, yuca frita, and fruit smoothies near the plaza during the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días/tardes' and use 'usted' with strangers; modest tone in conversation.
Ask before taking photos of people, avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces, and dress modestly in churches and rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cachipay
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, check if service is included; if not, leaving 5-10% is appreciated. Small tips for guides or café staff are common but not mandatory.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in small towns, while many establishments in Cachipay also accept cards; ATMs are available in town; mobile payments are growing but not universal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and pleasant temperatures; great for hiking and viewpoints, but nights can be chilly and temperatures drop after sunset.
Afternoon showers are common; landscapes become lush and dramatic, so pack a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
Cachipay at Night
Hiking in Cachipay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle hike to a panoramic overlook with views across the valley.
Short trails to nearby waterfalls and streams ideal for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Cachipay by plane.
Bogotá's main international gateway; about a 60-90 minute drive to Cachipay depending on traffic.
Small general aviation airport north of Bogotá; useful for private flights and quick transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly farming households with multi-generational families; strong sense of community.
Small-scale workers involved in coffee, cheese, and crafts; a younger generation increasingly connected through mobile networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common in plazas and schoolyards.
Cycling is popular for commuting and scenic rides through the countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cachipay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based dishes like corn arepas, bean stews, salads, and fresh fruit; ask for no meat stock or broth; many places can adapt.