Things To Do
in Sasaima
Sasaima is a scenic rural town in Cundinamarca, Colombia, perched among green valleys and rolling hills near Bogotá. It is known for friendly locals, coffee and farm-to-table produce, and easy access to nature without leaving the Sabana. Visitors wander the central plaza, visit nearby farms, and enjoy tranquil mornings and golden hour views over the countryside.
This guide provides a practical 2-day plan, tasty local flavors, photography spots, and essential tips for safe, respectful travel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sasaima and check into a local guesthouse. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast featuring arepas and freshly brewed coffee. Take a leisurely walk to familiarize yourself with the town and its vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the Sasaima main square to experience the heart of the community, surrounded by colorful artisan shops. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local eatery, sampling regional specialties. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby waterfalls like La Chorrera for a refreshing dip.
Dine at one of the town's family-owned restaurants, where you can try authentic bandeja paisa. After dinner, enjoy a casual stroll through the plaza, talking with locals and soaking in the welcoming ambiance. Wind down the day with a drink at a cozy café under the stars.
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a guided hike through the lush forests surrounding Sasaima. Watch for exotic birds and unique flora as you make your way to scenic viewpoints. Capture stunning photographs of the Andes landscape bathed in the morning light.
Return to town for lunch before visiting a nearby coffee farm. Experience the coffee-making process firsthand, from bean to brew, and savor samples of rich Colombian coffee. In the afternoon, explore local art galleries that showcase the talent of Sasaima's artists.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its authentic, homemade dishes and connect with fellow travelers. Attend a cultural event or live music performance in the evening for an immersive local experience. Share stories and laughter with new friends over drinks at a local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.40-1.00 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local bus fare | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧭Small souvenirs | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Bogotá and easy weekend getaways
- Beautiful rural scenery, coffee culture, and farm experiences
- Relaxed, safe, friendly small-town atmosphere
- Accessible nature with short hikes from town
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Rural transport can be infrequent or slower on weekends
- Accommodation options are basic outside peak season
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¡Gracias!" - Thank you!
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Sasaima
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the town square with colonial-style façades and locals starting their day.
Tiered coffee plantations on rolling hills offering dramatic lines and warm light at golden hour.
Low-traffic country lanes with sweeping valley views and cloud-shrouded mornings.
A scenic spot along the river with reflections and green foothills.
Open field or hillside where the sun sinks behind the distant ridges.
Food in Sasaima
Sasaima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa often filled with cheese and enjoyed with coffee.
Must-Try!
Hearty chicken and potato soup from the Andean region, served with capers and corn on the cob.
Comforting chicken stew with plantains, yucca, and corn.
Crispy pork with yuca and hogao sauce.
Tamales filled with meat, vegetables and masa, cooked in banana leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market where locals stock produce, cheeses, bread, and prepared foods; try arepas and empanadas from street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos dias; handshakes are common, hugs or cheek kisses among close friends.
Speak politely; use usted for older people; avoid interrupting; show appreciation for hospitality.
Dress modestly in rural areas and respect religious sites; avoid loud behavior in public.
Safety
Tipping in Sasaima
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; many small eateries do not include a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, better for outdoor activities and photography; slightly cooler mornings and pleasant afternoons.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings are usually dry; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear.
Sasaima at Night
Hiking in Sasaima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes through coffee plantations with lookout points over the valley.
Shaded forest paths along streams suitable for easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Sasaima by plane.
Bogotá's main international airport; reach Sasaima by road in about 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily rural families and agricultural workers; a mix of mestizo and white communities with small nearby Afro-Colombian and Indigenous presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Colombia; local matches and casual games are common in towns like Sasaima.
Colombian countryside and hills attract cyclists; scenic rides suitable for all levels.
Birdwatching is popular in the surrounding farmland and forest patches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sasaima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Sasaima you can find vegetarian options at most eateries; ask for vegetables, beans, rice, arepas, salads, and plantain dishes. Most meat-based dishes can be prepared without meat, but confirm with staff.