Things To Do
in La Mesa
La Mesa is a small Andean town in Cundinamarca, southwest of Bogotá, known for its pleasant mountain air, agricultural surroundings and colonial-style town center. It serves as a weekend getaway for Bogotá residents and a gateway to páramo landscapes, coffee farms and waterfalls in the region. The town blends rural life, fruit orchards and colorful markets with panoramic viewpoints over the Magdalena River valley.
Visitors find a relaxed pace, friendly locals and easy access to hiking and rural experiences within a short drive of the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh arepas and Colombian coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through La Mesa's historic center, admiring the vibrant colonial architecture and colorful facades. Don't forget to visit the main square, Plaza de La Mesa, where you can soak in the local atmosphere and watch the world go by.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby Museo del Oro, which showcases the rich history of goldsmithing and indigenous cultures of Colombia. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a family-owned restaurant, sampling local dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. As the sun begins to set, visit local artisan shops to pick up unique crafts and souvenirs.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a rooftop bar to enjoy a panoramic view of La Mesa while sipping on a refreshing cocktail. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and recommendations. Finally, dine at a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional Colombian cuisine and modern culinary techniques.
Kick off the day with a guided tour of a local coffee farm, where you can witness the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in hands-on activities like picking coffee cherries and learning about the significance of coffee in Colombian culture. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee while surrounded by the stunning landscape of lush coffee plantations.
After your coffee experience, head out for a nature hike through the nearby hills, where you can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Keep an eye out for colorful birds and other wildlife as you traverse the scenic trails. For lunch, enjoy a picnic amidst nature, savoring local snacks and a packed meal prepared by your hosts.
Return to La Mesa and unwind at a local eatery, where you can relish regional specialties for dinner. Spend the evening chatting with locals who are passionate about their coffee and culture. To end the day, enjoy a casual stroll through the town, taking in the vibrant street life and perhaps even catching a local music performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚌Bus to Bogotá (one way) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Bogotá and easy to reach for a weekend trip
- Scenic Andean landscapes and pleasant climate year-round
- Authentic small-town atmosphere with local markets and farms
- Affordable prices compared with big-city tourism
- Limited high-end accommodation and fine-dining options
- Public transport frequency can be low outside peak times
- Medical facilities in town are basic—major care requires travel
- Roads to rural attractions can be muddy or rough in the rainy season
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Muchas gracias" - Thank you very much
- "¿Me puede ayudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in La Mesa
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture colorful colonial architecture, daily life around the plaza and church details in soft morning light.
Panoramic shots of the Magdalena valley and surrounding Andean ridges—best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic skies.
Close-up photos of coffee plants, drying beans, fruit trees and farmworkers provide authentic rural scenes.
Vibrant stalls, piled fruit and interaction between vendors and customers offer lively street photography opportunities.
Long-exposure shots of cascades and flowing rivers framed by lush vegetation; bring a tripod and waterproof bag.
Food in La Mesa
La Mesa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Bogotá-area chicken and potato soup flavored with guasca—hearty and warming; commonly available in restaurants and roadside eateries.
Must-Try!
Corn dough stuffed with meat, vegetables and spices, wrapped in plantain leaf—often sold at markets and breakfasts.
Corn flatbread served plain or stuffed, a daily staple available from street vendors and cafés.
Locally grown fruits (guava, lulo, mora) turned into juices or desserts—found at markets and juice stands.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market is where locals buy produce, fresh juices, empanadas and tamales—ideal for tasting seasonal fruit and quick traditional snacks.
Afternoon and morning stalls sell coffee, arepas, pastries and regional sweets—good for sampling inexpensive local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite 'Buenos días' or handshake; Colombians value courtesy and polite conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites; casual clothing is fine around town but avoid overly revealing attire in conservative settings.
Respect for elders and family is important; a friendly, patient demeanor goes a long way in interactions.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or farms—most are happy to oblige if asked.
Safety
Tipping in La Mesa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge—if not, leaving 5–10% for good service is common. Tip guides, drivers and porters directly in cash.
Cash (Colombian peso) is widely used—smaller shops and markets often accept only cash. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and some accommodations but reception may be limited; ATMs are available in town but withdraw larger amounts in Bogotá if possible.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Most pleasant for hiking and sightseeing with clearer skies and less mud; expect more weekend visitors from Bogotá during holidays.
Frequent afternoon showers make trails slippery; mornings can be clear but pack rain gear and waterproof shoes.
Heavier rains and fog reduce visibility on viewpoints and some rural roads may become difficult—good for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
Temperatures are mild year-round but mornings and evenings can be cool; layering is recommended regardless of season.
La Mesa at Night
Hiking in La Mesa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Access points near La Mesa lead into the Sumapaz páramo area—unique high-altitude landscapes, endemic plants and sweeping views; guided hikes recommended for safety and navigation.
Short trails on private fincas offer gentle hikes through coffee, fruit trees and country lanes—combine with farm tours for context.
Local cascades and river trails provide scenic short hikes; best after dry spells to avoid slippery sections—bring sturdy footwear and insect repellent.
Airports
How to reach La Mesa by plane.
Bogotá’s main international airport, approximately 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic—most international arrivals use this airport and then travel by road to La Mesa.
Smaller regional airports operate domestic flights to hubs; depending on your route you may fly into a regional airport and continue by road. Road transfers from regional airports can be several hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority are mestizo residents working in agriculture, retail and small businesses—family-run farms and market sellers form the community backbone.
Many weekenders and second-home owners from Bogotá visit La Mesa, boosting tourism and services, particularly on holidays.
Like many small Colombian towns, family and intergenerational households are common; traditions and local festivals reflect long-standing community ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport—locals play in informal matches and follow professional Colombian leagues closely.
The hilly terrain attracts cyclists and mountain bikers; road and dirt routes offer good training and scenic rides.
A traditional rural pastime and tourist activity—available on many fincas for guided treks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Mesa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available—ask for vegetable stews, egg-based dishes and arepas. Markets are great for fresh fruit and salads; speak Spanish or use simple phrases to clarify ingredients.
Vegan choices can be limited in small eateries; rely on mercados for fruit, rice, potatoes and simple vegetable dishes, and inform cooks about your needs.
Corn-based foods like arepas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur. Ask if sauces or fillings contain wheat.