Things To Do
in Sibaté
Sibaté is a tranquil town in Cundinamarca, just southeast of Bogotá, set on the Andean highlands. The town blends agricultural heritage with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere and colorful plazas. Visitors come for easy day trips to farms, viewpoints, and the surrounding valleys, all within a comfortable, relaxed pace.
Located within driving distance of the capital, Sibaté serves as a convenient gateway to the Andean countryside and its rural charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Sibaté's picturesque main square, where the vibrant colors of colonial architecture greet you. Sip on a traditional Colombian coffee from a local café while taking in the morning bustle of the town. The ambiance is enriched by the sounds of street vendors and the laughter of children heading to school.
After lunch, explore the nearby Parque Principal, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and possibly spot local wildlife. Engage with friendly locals who are often seen playing chess or simply relaxing in the park. As the sun begins to set, the square comes alive with artisans showcasing their crafts, providing an excellent opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.
As night falls, find a cozy restaurant in the square where you can savor traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa or arepas. The atmosphere is lively, with music often filling the air as locals gather to unwind after a long day. End your evening with a stroll back to your accommodation, soaking in the warm Colombian night.
Begin your day by visiting the bustling local market where vendors display a colorful array of fresh produce and handmade goods. Interact with the friendly sellers, learning about their products and the importance of agriculture in the region. The market is not only a place to shop but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
After exploring the market, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the nearby eateries, sampling authentic local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Post-lunch, visit a nearby artisan workshop to see traditional crafts being made, and perhaps try your hand at creating a piece of art yourself. The afternoon is enriched with the stories shared by artisans about their craft and heritage.
In the evening, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant that specializes in fusion cuisine, merging traditional Colombian flavors with modern twists. As you dine, take in the lively atmosphere, often accompanied by live music or cultural performances. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the beautifully lit square, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🍽️Three-course mid-range meal | $15-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, non-touristy vibe with warm, welcoming locals
- Easy access to Bogotá for day trips and excursions
- Limited public transportation beyond the town; a car or taxi helps
- Smaller dining and nightlife scene compared to large cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Sibaté
Visit one of these nice places.
The central plaza with pastel-colored buildings and a colonial-style church offers classic composition opportunities and people-watching moments.
A hillside viewpoint just outside town providing sweeping views of the Bogotá savanna and surrounding farmland, ideal for sunrise shots.
Quiet rural lanes, fenced farms, and hay bale thetas create serene, sunlit scenes perfect for landscape and portrait photography.
Food in Sibaté
Sibaté Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting chicken and potato soup with guasca, corn on the cob, and a variety of potatoes; a Bogotá region staple often enjoyed with capers, cream, and avocado.
Must-Try!
A robust chicken and vegetable stew served with corn, plantains, yuca, and rice; a favorite for family gatherings and country lunches.
Sweet corn arepa, crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, commonly enjoyed with cheese or hogao sauce.
Seasoned corn dough stuffed with meat, vegetables, and spices, wrapped and steamed; a common street and market offering.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where residents buy produce, dairy, and prepared foods; great for sampling fresh fruit, arepas, and regional snacks.
Casual stalls along the plaza offer empanadas, frituras, and sweet treats; ideal for a quick bite while soaking in town life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm smile and a handshake; use usted with strangers as a sign of respect. Small talk about family and health is common before business matters.
Safety
Tipping in Sibaté
Ensure a smooth experience
In formal restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service isn’t included. In smaller eateries, rounding up the bill is appreciated. For street vendors, tips are discretionary.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries, while many restaurants and shops in or near Bogotá accept cards. ATMs are common in town centers and larger nearby towns; mobile payments are increasingly seen in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny days with clear skies, ideal for outdoor walks, photography, and village exploration. Pack light layers for cooler evenings.
Afternoons and short showers are common; bring a compact rain jacket and umbrella, and plan flexible outdoor time to avoid heavy rain.
Sibaté at Night
Hiking in Sibaté
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike with panoramic views of Sibaté and the surrounding Andean countryside; suitable for a few hours outdoors.
Airports
How to reach Sibaté by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway for the region; about a 45–75 minute drive from Sibaté depending on traffic. Taxis, rideshare apps, and private transfers are common options.
Smaller general aviation airport used for private flights and charters; useful for quick connections to regional destinations, located within the Bogotá area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of long-time residents and commuters who travel to Bogotá for work or education.
Residents active in farming and related trades surrounding the town and valley lands.
People who study in nearby towns or Bogotá and return home to Sibaté on weekends.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia, with local clubs and informal games on weekends.
Carved rural roads and scenic routes make cycling a favored activity for locals and visitors.
Common in schools and community centers; local leagues and pickup games occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sibaté.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose fresh fruit, vegetables, arepas, and bean stews; for plant-based options, ask for vegetarian versions of soups and tamales and consider esoteric dishes like lentil or bean soups when available.