Things To Do
in Cajicá
Cajicá is a tranquil colonial town just north of Bogotá, perched on the Sabana de Bogotá with green farmland surrounding it. Its whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs, and cobblestone streets evoke a preserved historic center that welcomes visitors to stroll between plazas and churches. The town is known for dairy farms and pastries, offering fresh products and convenient day trips from the capital.
With easy access to nature reserves and scenic viewpoints, Cajicá makes a relaxed base for regional exploration.
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 iconic statue of Simon Bolivar. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and fresh coffee. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and local culture.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, visit the Church of San Miguel, known for its stunning altarpiece and serene ambiance. Spend some time exploring local artisan shops, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and textiles. End the afternoon with a visit to the Museo de Cajicá, where you can learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local eatery, sampling traditional dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. After dinner, take a peaceful walk through the main square, where you might catch a local performance or live music. Conclude your evening with a sweet treat from a nearby gelato shop, enjoying the flavors of Colombian fruits.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the Andean hills for a nature walk. As you hike along the trails, take in the breathtaking views of lush landscapes and the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the area is home to various bird species and other animals.
After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature, relishing the fresh air and tranquility. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby waterfalls, where you can cool off in the refreshing water and take stunning photos. Consider visiting a local farm to learn about sustainable agriculture and to taste some fresh produce.
Return to Cajicá in the evening and unwind at a cozy café, sipping on hot chocolate made from locally sourced cacao. Engage with locals, sharing stories and learning about their daily lives in this charming town. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a family-owned restaurant, where you can enjoy homemade dishes prepared with love.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $0.5-2 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $2-4 |
| 🛒Grocery (basic weekly) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Bogotá and easy day trips
- Calm, small-town atmosphere with colonial charm
- Fresh dairy products and regional cuisine
- Safe, family-friendly environment
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Public transport options can be modest outside Bogotá
- Smaller selection of international cuisine compared to Bogotá
- Seasonal rainfall can affect outdoor plans
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está [lugar]?" - Where is [place]?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Cajicá
Visit one of these nice places.
A colonial-era plaza framed by whitewashed buildings, arches, and the central church—perfect for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
This 17th- or 18th-century church provides architectural details and a bell tower with atmospheric lighting.
Historic streets with traditional balconies, wooden doors, and market stalls that evoke small-town Andean life.
Food in Cajicá
Cajicá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick chicken, potato, and guasca soup that’s warming and satisfying in cooler highland weather; available in most traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa often enjoyed with cheese or hogao; a staple snack and breakfast treat.
Steamed corn and rice dough wrapped in plantain leaves with meat or vegetables; found in markets or casual restaurants.
Milk and egg soup typically served with bread, common in Andean towns, often enjoyed in the morning.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, dairy, meats, and prepared foods; ideal for sampling local snacks and ingredients.
Try empanadas, arepas, churros, and fresh fruit from street vendors around the main square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings in Spanish go a long way; say hola, buenos días, por favor, and gracias; address elders with señor/a.
In churches and formal settings dress modestly; avoid loud behavior on public transport; keep voices down in quiet areas.
Use right hand or both hands when handing money; avoid pointing with the index finger; wait your turn in lines.
Safety
Tipping in Cajicá
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up bills or leaving 5–10% in sit-down restaurants is common if service is not included; often not mandatory in casual places.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in urban venues; many places also accept cash (COP). Small eateries may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December–March and July–August offer clearer skies and more comfortable warmth during the day; expect cooler nights.
April–May and October–November bring frequent showers—bring a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear; trails may be slippery.
Cajicá at Night
Hiking in Cajicá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible viewpoints near Bogotá with a moderate hike or alternative funicular option; great for city skyline photography.
High-altitude páramo ecosystem with several hiking trails and dramatic landscapes; a longer day trip from Cajicá.
Scenic hills along the La Calera route offering short hikes and viewpoints toward the Bogotá Valley.
Airports
How to reach Cajicá by plane.
Bogotá’s main international airport, about 30-40 minutes by car from Cajicá on non-peak hours; easy taxi or rideshare access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents live in family units, with a mix of older generations and children.
Some residents commute to Bogotá for work or school, given the town’s proximity to the capital.
Surrounding farms and artisan workshops contribute to the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Colombia, widely played and watched; expect local matches in community fields and nearby stadiums.
Road and mountain biking are popular in the Andean highlands and Sabana de Bogotá area.
Ranch and horse riding activities are common in rural Cajicá surroundings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cajicá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose hearty vegetable stews, arepas with cheese, mushrooms, and salads; many places can adapt dishes; consider asking for no meat broth.
Request plant-based options; opt for salads, beans, grains, fruits, and dairy-free soups; avoid stock with meat.
Many Colombian dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, potatoes); confirm sauces and empanadas do not contain gluten-containing additives.