Things To Do
in La Mesa
La Mesa is a charming town located in the Cundinamarca region of Colombia. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and pleasant weather. The town is surrounded by coffee plantations and offers various outdoor activities such as hiking and bird-watching.
La Mesa is also famous for its traditional Colombian cuisine and warm hospitality.
- "¿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 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Parque Principal, where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Grab a local breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your adventures.
Visit a local artisan market to browse handmade crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Colombian restaurant featuring regional dishes.
Stroll along the streets to admire the charming colonial architecture. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of the region.
Head out early for a hiking trip to the nearby hills. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you trek through stunning landscapes.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking breathtaking views. Spend your afternoon visiting a local coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process.
Return to town and relax at a local café while sampling some Colombian coffee. Share stories of your day with friends and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and forests.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Colombian cities.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and ecotourism.
- Limited access to healthcare and specialized services.
- Fewer job opportunities compared to urban areas.
- Potential issues with transportation infrastructure.
- Challenges in accessing educational resources.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters due to geographical location.
Best Activities in La Mesa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and unique flora and fauna of this national park, which offers various hiking trails for all levels of experience.
Take a day trip to the charming town of Salento and hike through the stunning Cocora Valley, known for its towering wax palm trees and picturesque surroundings.
Experience the thrill of rafting on the Rio Verde, which provides a fun and adventurous outdoor activity amidst the lush surroundings of La Mesa.
Tours
Uncover the best of La Mesa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in La Mesa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers spectacular panoramic views of La Mesa and the surrounding natural beauty.
Provides a stunning vantage point overlooking the town of La Mesa and its picturesque surroundings.
Scenic spot with a beautiful view of the bridge and the landscape around La Mesa.
Food in La Mesa
La Mesa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken and potato soup flavored with guasca herb, corn, and served with avocado and sour cream. A must-try at La Abuela's, a popular family-owned restaurant in the town center.
Must-Try!
A lavish platter featuring red beans, rice, ground meat, chorizo, chicharrón, avocado, fried egg, and plantain. El Rancho de Juan is renowned for serving an authentic and indulgent version of this dish.
A traditional dish consisting of a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. La Casa de Doña Carmen serves delectable Lechona, a local favorite among the residents and visitors alike.
Unique Experiences
Get to know La Mesa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. Visitors can savor authentic Colombian street food like arepas, empanadas, and jugo de lulo (lulo juice) from the various vendors scattered around the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In La Mesa, Colombia, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close when having conversations or interactions.
It is customary to greet people with courtesy in La Mesa, Colombia, such as saying 'buenos días' (good morning), 'buenas tardes' (good afternoon), or 'buenas noches' (good evening) depending on the time of day.
Respect for cultural traditions, such as celebrating festivals and religious events, is important in La Mesa, Colombia. It is polite to participate in or observe these traditions with respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of La Mesa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in La Mesa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in La Mesa, Colombia, is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and taxis. A common practice is to leave a 10% tip if the service was satisfactory.
In La Mesa, Colombia, cash is widely used for daily transactions. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to have cash on hand for smaller businesses and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into La Mesa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm, sunny weather and enjoy outdoor activities. Expect vibrant natural landscapes and lively festivals.
Expect lush greenery, fewer tourists, and opportunities for birdwatching. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Ideal for moderate weather, diverse flora, and a mix of outdoor adventures. Recommended for those who prefer mild climate conditions.
La Mesa at Night
Hiking in La Mesa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park located near La Mesa, offering various trails through lush forests and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
A popular hiking trail that features scenic landscapes and is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A bit further away, this park offers a diverse ecosystem and numerous hiking routes, including those leading to snow-capped peaks.
This is a local landmark with trails that provide great views and a chance to explore the unique flora and fauna of the Colombian highlands.
Though primarily known for its waterfall, the area also offers hiking opportunities along its trails with beautiful vistas.
A private nature reserve near La Mesa that features hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, perfect for birdwatching and nature walks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into La Mesa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach La Mesa by plane.
Located in Bogotá, approximately 30 km from La Mesa, this is Colombia's main international airport, serving as a hub for numerous airlines.
Located in Cali, around 100 km from La Mesa, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the busiest in Colombia.
Situated in Rionegro, near Medellín, about 180 km from La Mesa, this airport is a key international gateway to the region.
Located in Santa Marta, approximately 340 km from La Mesa, it serves international flights and is known for its proximity to tourist destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, composed of individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
Includes various Indigenous communities native to the region, maintaining their cultural practices and traditions.
A group of descendants from African slaves, contributing significantly to the cultural diversity of La Mesa.
Typically of European descent, this group includes individuals who have settled in the area, primarily from Spain and other European countries.
This category includes smaller groups such as immigrants from various countries and other ethnic minorities.
The Soul of La Mesa
Discover the essence of La Mesa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in La Mesa, with many local teams and a strong community following. Matches are frequently held and local talent often emerges.
Due to its varied terrain, La Mesa is known for cycling, attracting both recreational riders and competitive cyclists. The area hosts events and competitions.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in La Mesa, with many local courts available and youth programs helping to grow the sport in the community.
Baseball has a historical presence in La Mesa, with local leagues and a passionate following that contributes to the sport's popularity.
Track and field events are popular in La Mesa, with schools often organizing competitions that encourage youth to participate in various athletic disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Mesa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine leans heavily on meat and dairy, many restaurants in La Mesa now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. El Vegano Feliz is a popular choice, providing an array of plant-based options, including vegan arepas and hearty salads.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find solace in Cafe del Sol, a cafe known for its gluten-free baked goods and pastries. The cafe is committed to using locally sourced, gluten-free ingredients for its diverse menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of La Mesa with these cultural adventures.
