Things To Do
in Guasca
Guasca is a small Andean town on the Bogotá Plateau in Cundinamarca, Colombia, known for lush green valleys and nearby páramo landscapes. It serves as a peaceful base for nature escapes and rural farm experiences just a short drive from Bogotá. Visitors come for hiking, horseback riding, and authentic countryside hospitality.
The town preserves colonial architecture and a cool, misty climate that invites relaxed days and scenic drives.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Guasca and settle into your accommodation. Spend some time exploring the quaint streets, filled with colorful houses and friendly locals. Enjoy a warm cup of Colombian coffee at a local café to acclimate yourself to the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the local mercado to experience the rich culture and sample traditional Colombian delicacies. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, including woven textiles and handmade jewelry. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town, soaking in the beautiful landscapes surrounding you.
Dine at a charming restaurant offering regional dishes, such as ajiaco and bandeja paisa. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or enjoying the fresh mountain air at a nearby park. As the sun sets, witness the sky transform into a canvas of colors, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
Start your day with an invigorating hike through the stunning Guasca countryside. Encounter breathtaking vistas, lush green hills, and sparkling rivers as you explore the area around the village. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora to enhance your experience.
After your hike, visit the famous Guasca reservoir for a peaceful afternoon by the water. Engage in water activities such as fishing or kayaking, or simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Pack a picnic to savor while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Return to town and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria or grill. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers and locals, embracing the warm community spirit. Conclude your night by taking a stroll under the stars, enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $15-25 |
| 🛍️Local crafts souvenir | $4-20 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short intra-town) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Bogotá with easy access to nature
- Authentic Andean culture and warm, hospitality-focused locals
- Dramatic scenery: valleys, páramo landscapes, and coffee farming
- Peaceful, slower pace ideal for relaxation and reflection
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities within the town
- Rural infrastructure can be basic in places
- Public transport options are fewer; best to rent a car or hire guides
- Services and healthcare facilities are more limited than in bigger cities
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿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.
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The bill, please.
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Guasca
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic overlook just outside town offering sweeping views of valley floors, cloud forests, and distant páramo silhouettes—ideal at sunrise or golden hour.
Access points toward Chingaza National Park for mossy forests, dramatic skies, and highland lakes framed by rolling hills.
Scenic views of the Neusa reservoir with reflections of the surrounding green hills and dramatic skies above.
Food in Guasca
Guasca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken, potato, and guasca soup typical of the Bogotá highlands; usually served with capers, cream, avocado, and arepa.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa filled with cheese; a popular snack and perfect accompanyment to coffee.
Corn dough filled with meat and vegetables, wrapped and steamed; commonly enjoyed as a comforting countryside dish.
A milk-based morning soup with scallions and an egg, commonly enjoyed for breakfast in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals buy fresh produce, cheeses, herbs (guascas), and prepared foods.
Try arepas, empanadas, roasted corn, and fresh coffee beans from street stalls along the town lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a warm greeting like Buenos días or buenas tardes; a handshake is common in formal encounters.
Dress modestly in village settings; avoid loud behavior in religious sites; ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural homes.
Small talk about family and local life is common; avoid heated political debates in casual settings.
Safety
Tipping in Guasca
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a tip of around 5-10% is customary in restaurants. In informal eateries, rounding up the bill is appreciated; small tips for drivers or guides are common.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in rural areas; many places in Guasca also accept credit/debit cards, especially in restaurants and larger shops. ATMs are available in nearby towns. Carry some local currency for small vendors and market stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny mornings with cooler evenings; clearer skies for long valley and páramo photos. Pack sun protection and light layers.
Frequent afternoon showers; mornings can be misty and gray but trees and fields look lush. Carry a compact rain jacket and fast-drying gear.
Guasca at Night
Hiking in Guasca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
High-altitude trails with glacial lagoons, cloud forests, and abundant wildlife; appropriate for guided hikes with proper elevation preparedness.
Lush páramo and montane trails offering unique flora and panoramic views of the highlands.
Scenic lakefront trails and foothill routes around the Neusa reservoir, suitable for easy to moderate day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Guasca by plane.
Bogotá’s main international hub; about a 1–2 hour drive (traffic dependent) from Guasca, and a convenient gateway for international travel.
A small aviation facility north of Bogotá; used for private flights and charters, accessible for quick regional arrivals to the area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Farm families and long-standing residents who maintain rural traditions and crafts.
Tourists seeking nature, coffee experiences, and rural Colombian culture.
Local guides, artisans, and workers who support tourism and agriculture.
Older community members who preserve local customs and family-centered life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread and popular across towns including Guasca; local matches and informal games are common in the evenings.
Road cycling is popular along scenic mountain routes and farmlands; many visitors bring a bike for day trips.
A traditional activity in the Andean countryside, with guided rides through farms and foothill trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guasca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can prepare vegetarian options; ask for plant-based dishes and fresh produce. Local staples like legumes, roots, and corn-based dishes work well.
Corn-based dishes are typically gluten-free; avoid sauces or processed foods unless staff confirms ingredients.