Things To Do
in Chiquinquirá
Chiquinquirá is a historic town in Boyacá, perched on the eastern slopes of the Andes at about 2,550 meters above sea level. It is renowned for the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Chiquinquirá, a major pilgrimage site and architectural icon. The town preserves cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, and a calm, friendly pace that invites strolls through its plazas.
Surrounding farmland and easy access to central Boyacá landscapes make it a relaxing base for a deeper exploration of the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá and take a connecting bus to Chiquinquirá, enjoying the scenic landscapes of Colombia during the journey. After checking into your accommodations, take some time to unwind and acclimate to the local atmosphere. Stroll through the nearby streets to get your first glimpse of the town's vibrant culture.
Visit the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá, a site of pilgrimage for many, and marvel at its intricate architecture and historical significance. Spend some time in the nearby parks, soaking in the local ambiance and perhaps chatting with friendly locals. Conclude your afternoon with a traditional Colombian lunch at a local eatery, savoring flavors unique to the region.
As the sun sets, join the locals in the plaza for an evening of music and dance, perhaps catching a spontaneous folkloric performance. Sample some traditional street food while mingling with residents, who are eager to share stories about the town. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk back to your hotel, reflecting on your first day in Chiquinquirá.
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, indulging in arepas and fresh Colombian coffee. Visit the Museo de Arte e Historia, where you can appreciate local art and learn about the rich history of Chiquinquirá. This cultural engagement will provide insight into the life and traditions of the townspeople.
After lunch, journey to the nearby town of Cucutilla to explore its beautiful natural surroundings, including hiking opportunities and stunning views. Spend your afternoon connecting with nature and taking photographs of the breathtaking landscapes. Return to Chiquinquirá in time to rest before the evening activities.
Dine at a local restaurant that offers traditional music, allowing you to enjoy the cuisine alongside a lively atmosphere. Participate in a Salsa dance class offered nearby, where you’ll learn some steps while making new friends. Wind down with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the vibrant energy of Chiquinquirá nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $0.5-1 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Hostel or budget hotel (night) | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, walkable historic town with strong religious and cultural heritage
- Gateway to central Boyacá with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller scale compared with larger Colombian cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Chiquinquirá
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive neoclassical facade and interior; early morning light along the plaza is ideal for street photography.
Historic central square framed by colonial balconies and churches; good for candid shots of daily life.
Historic cobbled street with colorful buildings, arches, and shaded corners perfect for architectural photography.
Panoramic viewpoint above the town offering sweeping views at sunset.
Food in Chiquinquirá
Chiquinquirá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa with a soft, fluffy interior and crisp edges; widely available at markets and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Steamed corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served with hogao sauce.
Hearty stew with meat (usually chicken or beef), yucca, plantain, and corn—comfort food in the countryside.
Grilled river trout, commonly found in restaurants near streams and farms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market offering produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods.
Arepas, empanadas, buñuelos, and fresh fruit sold by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly handshake; use formal 'usted' with strangers or elders. Address people by last name or title when possible.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in churches and during services.
Safety
Tipping in Chiquinquirá
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are common.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted, particularly in markets. Credit/debit cards are increasingly common in hotels and larger restaurants; some small shops prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Usually sunny days with cool evenings; ideal for outdoor exploration and hillside walks. Bring sunscreen and a light jacket for evenings.
Afternoon showers are common; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof shoes. Trails can be muddy but landscapes stay lush.
Chiquinquirá at Night
Hiking in Chiquinquirá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short-to-moderate hike to a hilltop viewpoint overlooking the town; great for photos at sunrise or sunset.
Trail leading to a series of small waterfalls in the surrounding countryside; a peaceful day hike.
Airports
How to reach Chiquinquirá by plane.
Major international hub about a 3–4 hour drive from Chiquinquirá; frequent flights to the rest of Colombia and beyond.
Small regional airport offering domestic flights; convenient if arriving via Colombian internal routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Chiquinquirá attracts students and educators from local colleges and nearby towns; the culture is warm and family-centered.
A safe, relaxed environment makes the town popular for families and older visitors.
Inhabitants come from surrounding farms and villages who visit the market and plaza for social and commercial activity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region; expect local games and pickup matches among residents.
Nearby routes and town routes attract cyclists; scenic rides through Boyacá’s valleys.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chiquinquirá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options such as tamales without meat, corn soups, enchiladas, and fresh fruit. It helps to ask for 'sin carne' or request the chef to prepare a plant-based option.