Things To Do
in La Calera
La Calera is a picturesque town located in the Eastern Andes of Colombia, just a short drive from Bogotá. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, La Calera offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching.
Visitors can also explore the charming streets lined with colorful colonial architecture and enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine in local restaurants.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby mountains, enjoying the lush greenery and stunning views. Don't forget to pack a snack to enjoy at the peak!
Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and try some authentic Colombian food. Engage with the friendly locals and maybe pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.
Relax in a local café while sipping on fresh Colombian coffee as you watch the sunset. Conclude your day by taking a leisurely stroll through the town's charming streets.
Visit the historical church in town, which showcases beautiful architecture and local artwork. Spend some time learning about its significance to the community.
Explore the local museum to dive deeper into La Calera's rich history and tradition. Participate in a guided tour to make the most of your visit.
Enjoy a traditional Colombian dinner in a cozy restaurant. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals to enrich your cultural experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes and mountains, ideal for outdoor activities and tourism.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas in Colombia.
- Access to fresh produce and local markets.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development.
- Basic infrastructure and services might not meet urban standards.
- Potential safety concerns in certain areas.
- Less access to advanced healthcare facilities.
Best Activities in La Calera
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of Chingaza National Park through its various hiking trails.
Enjoy rock climbing in the stunning natural surroundings of Suesca Rocks, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Discover the scenic beauty of the Guasca region while enjoying mountain biking along its trails and roads.
Tours
Uncover the best of La Calera with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in La Calera
Visit one of these nice places.
Monserrate offers one of the best views of the city of Bogotá, including La Calera. It's a popular spot for tourists to take photos and enjoy the panoramic vista.
The viewpoint in La Calera itself offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a great location for photography and sightseeing.
Food in La Calera
La Calera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, corn on the cob, capers, avocado, and guascas herb, typically served with rice and avocado on the side. A must-try dish that showcases the local flavors and culinary heritage.
Must-Try!
A savory dish consisting of a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, onions, and spices. It's a popular dish often served at festive occasions and local celebrations.
A traditional Colombian tamale made of yellow corn dough filled with pork, chicken, vegetables, and spices. It's wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, resulting in a delicious and hearty meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know La Calera better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of La Calera, this bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh local produce, including fruits, vegetables, and artisanal goods. Visitors can also savor authentic street food such as empanadas, arepas, and grilled meats as they stroll through the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In La Calera, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal language and addressing them with titles such as 'señor' or 'señora'.
Punctuality is highly valued in La Calera, so it is important to arrive on time for social gatherings and appointments.
Common greetings in La Calera include a handshake and a verbal greeting, accompanied by direct eye contact, to show respect and friendliness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of La Calera with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in La Calera
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not always expected in La Calera, Colombia, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so it is advisable to check before leaving an additional tip. In other service industries, such as taxis and hotels, a small tip for good service is customary.
In La Calera, Colombia, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments and for services such as taxis. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many medium to large businesses. It's advisable to carry enough cash, especially when venturing to more rural areas where card payment options may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into La Calera.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit La Calera with clear skies and warm temperatures. Great for outdoor activities.
Expect frequent rainfall, lush green landscapes, and potential for muddy trails and road travel.
Varied weather conditions with some rainfall, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists. Good for experiencing local culture.
La Calera at Night
Hiking in La Calera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected area featuring lush cloud forests and a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
A popular hiking destination with several trails leading to the summit. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of La Calera and the Bogotá area.
A scenic spot ideal for hiking, featuring trails along a beautiful river and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers.
An ecological park offering various hiking paths through its natural landscapes, promoting a connection with nature and outdoor activities.
This trail offers an accessible hiking experience through beautiful landscapes with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying local flora.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into La Calera through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach La Calera by plane.
Located in Bogotá, approximately 42 km from La Calera, it is the largest and busiest airport in Colombia.
Located in Medellín, approximately 215 km from La Calera, it serves as a key hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated in Cali, about 419 km from La Calera, it is an important airport serving the southwestern region of Colombia.
Located in Cartagena, approximately 1,000 km from La Calera, this airport caters to both domestic and international traffic.
In Santa Marta, around 1,001 km from La Calera, it serves as a gateway to the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in La Calera, consisting of individuals with a mixed ancestry of European and Indigenous heritage.
Various indigenous groups that have historical ties to the region, representing a smaller percentage of the population.
Individuals of European descent, making up a significant portion of the city's population.
People of African descent who are part of the diverse cultural landscape of La Calera.
Includes other smaller communities and expatriates living in La Calera.
The Soul of La Calera
Discover the essence of La Calera through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in La Calera, with a strong local culture surrounding the sport, featuring various amateur clubs and community matches.
Cycling is widely practiced in La Calera due to its mountainous terrain. The area is popular for both recreational cycling and competitive events.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in La Calera, with many local teams and community leagues fostering talent and participation.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and recreational centers, and beach volleyball events are popular during local festivals.
Athletics, including running and track events, have a growing presence in La Calera, with local competitions and training programs encouraging youth involvement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Calera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in La Calera offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes, such as veggie-filled arepas, plantain-based dishes, and fresh salads. Additionally, some establishments provide creative plant-based interpretations of classic Colombian recipes.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options at various restaurants and cafes in La Calera. These options may include dishes made with maize-based products, quinoa, and other naturally gluten-free ingredients, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of La Calera with these cultural adventures.
