Things To Do
in San Antonio del Tequendama
San Antonio del Tequendama is a highland town in Cundinamarca, Colombia, perched along lush valleys near the Tequendama River. The village sits close to Bogotá, offering cool mornings and green, cloud-kissed landscapes. Its proximity to the Salto del Tequendama waterfall makes it a popular base for nature lovers and photographers.
Visitors come for authentic rural life, easy access to the capital, and scenic trails that showcase Andean biodiversity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá and take a scenic drive to San Antonio del Tequendama. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains along the way. Once you arrive, check into your charming hotel, nestled amidst lush greenery.
Begin your exploration with a leisurely stroll through the town to appreciate the local architecture and vibrant street art. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Colombian coffee and a slice of freshly baked arequipe cake. Visit the nearby Tequendama Falls, a majestic waterfall that offers stunning views and perfect photo opportunities.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring delicious Colombian cuisine. Savor dishes like bandeja paisa or ajiaco, complemented by a refreshing local beer. End the evening with a relaxing walk, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming town.
Start your day with a guided hike in the nearby Chicaque Natural Park, known for its foggy forests and diverse wildlife. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you wander along the trails, observing unique flora and fauna. Take time to appreciate the breathtaking views from various lookout points.
Return to San Antonio for a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, sampling fresh trout caught from the nearby rivers. Afterward, visit the local artisan market to browse handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with local artists and learn about traditional Colombian craftsmanship.
Dine at a quaint restaurant while listening to live traditional music that encapsulates the heart of Colombian culture. Try regional specialties paired with a crisp glass of aguapanela. Cap off the night with stargazing in a quiet spot, enjoying the tranquility of the Colombian countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and authentic local culture
- Close proximity to Bogotá and notable nature sites
- Scenic landscapes and easy day trips
- Limited tourist infrastructure and fewer big-name attractions
- Roads can be rural or uneven outside the town center
- Altitude can cause mild discomfort for some travelers
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in San Antonio del Tequendama
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook of the Tequendama Falls with mist, lush valley backgrounds, and dramatic skies.
Colorful facades, daily life, and classic colonial-era architecture ideal for street photography.
Quiet riverbanks and patchwork fields offering serene compositions and seasonal light.
Food in San Antonio del Tequendama
San Antonio del Tequendama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa often grilled or fried and served with cheese; a staple you’ll find in markets and streets.
Must-Try!
A hearty chicken, potato, and guasca soup common in the region; look for it in local eateries.
Thick, comforting stew with meat, plantains, yuca and corn; a weekend favorite.
Corn-dough bundles filled with meat and vegetables, steamed in plantain leaves; commonly found at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh produce, fruits, juices, arepas, empanadas, and other regional snacks.
Grab empanadas, patacones, fresh fruit juice, and other quick bites from informal vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and use 'usted' when addressing strangers or elders.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Speak calmly and politely; personal space is respected and conversations are generally warm but not overly aggressive.
Safety
Tipping in San Antonio del Tequendama
Ensure a smooth experience
In full-service restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if not included in the bill; for taxi drivers, rounding up is common.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in markets and smaller shops; many places in town accept debit/credit cards, though some smaller vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny with cooler mornings and pleasant daytime highs; great for outdoor photography and village strolling. Some days may be breezy; pack a light jacket.
Afternoon showers are common, bringing lush greenery and dramatic skies. Carry a compact rain jacket and a protective cover for gear; mornings are often clearer.
San Antonio del Tequendama at Night
Hiking in San Antonio del Tequendama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hike to a panoramic overlook of the waterfall and valley.
Gentle forest and farmland trails offering wildlife viewing and rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach San Antonio del Tequendama by plane.
Bogotá's main international gateway; typically 40–90 minutes by car from San Antonio del Tequendama, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding farming communities maintaining traditional ways of life.
Residents and travelers who use the area as a gateway to Bogotá or day-trip destinations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; casual games and local matches are common in communal spaces and schools.
Rural roads and rolling hills attract cyclists seeking scenic, scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio del Tequendama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find dairy- and egg-based dishes easily; request veggie soups, salads, and arepas; many kitchens can accommodate with advance notice.