Things To Do
in Silvania
Silvania sits on the Andean highlands of central Colombia, about an hour from Bogotá, offering a cool climate and lush green hills. The town preserves colonial-era architecture, with a central plaza, church, and colorful balconies. Surrounded by coffee fincas and cloud forests, it's a gateway for day trips to nature reserves and viewpoints.
Visitors enjoy local markets, warm hospitality, and a slower pace compared to the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Silvania and check into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast with fresh arepas and coffee at a local café. Take a leisurely walk around the charming town square to soak in the ambiance.
Visit the nearby La Chorrera waterfalls, a hidden gem just a short hike from town. Take in the breathtaking views and listen to the soothing sounds of cascading water. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the lush surroundings.
Return to Silvania and explore the vibrant streets dotted with local shops and artisan boutiques. Dine at a local restaurant, savoring exquisite Colombian dishes made from fresh local ingredients. End the evening with a stroll under the stars, experiencing the town's peaceful nightlife.
Start your day with a visit to the Silvania Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town's rich history and traditions. Engage with local artists and artisans who showcase their crafts and skills. Enjoy a refreshing juice from the local market as you absorb the cultural atmosphere.
Take a guided walking tour of Silvania, visiting historical sites and charming colonial architecture. Stop by the local bakery to try some traditional baked goods and sample local flavors. This experience offers a deeper insight into the town's heritage.
Join a workshop to learn how to make a traditional Colombian dish with locals. Share stories and connect with residents while preparing and enjoying your meal together. Cap off the night with traditional music and dance performances in the town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥪Lunch with drink | $9-15 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚎Local transit short ride | $1-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming colonial center
- Friendly locals and safe streets
- Nearby coffee farms and nature escapes
- Lower costs than Bogotá
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas with uneven sidewalks
- Limited English widely spoken in rural areas
- Travel to Bogotá can take time in traffic
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Could you recommend a place to eat?
Places to Visit in Silvania
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful balconies, cobbled streets, and the church provide classic town photography at golden hour.
View over the hills and red-tiled roofs; a short uphill walk yields sweeping panoramas.
Waterfalls along forest trails ideal for nature close-ups and long-exposure shots.
Food in Silvania
Silvania Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled trout from local streams, often served with potatoes and a light herb sauce.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa, a staple snack or accompaniment.
A hearty potato-based soup adapted with local herbs; a comforting option in cooler evenings.
Chicken and vegetable soup common in rural households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful market stalls with fresh produce, cheese, corn, and homemade sweets; try freshly pressed juices.
Street stalls offering arepas, empanadas, and grilled corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello with a handshake or cheek kiss among friends; use usted for strangers.
Greet elders first; be patient in lines and when waiting for service.
In churches and traditional areas, dress modestly and remove hats when indoors.
Safety
Tipping in Silvania
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; many places add a service charge.
Cash is widely accepted in markets; many restaurants accept cards, but small vendors often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Drier days with mild temps; great for outdoor walks and photography, though evenings can be cool.
Afternoons and evenings see frequent showers; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Occasional dust on unpaved roads; plan hikes for early mornings to avoid rain.
Silvania at Night
Hiking in Silvania
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A shaded forest trail leading to a secluded waterfall; 2-3 hours round trip.
Ridge walk offering panoramic views of Silvania and surrounding valleys; 1.5-2 hours.
Guided hike into the páramo belt near Sumapaz region; require a local guide; 4-6 hours.
Airports
How to reach Silvania by plane.
Main international gateway for Bogotá; about 60-90 minutes drive from Silvania depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving central Colombia; larger flights require connections through Bogotá.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families with multi-generational households; safe neighborhoods around the center.
Young residents who commute to Bogotá for work or study on weekends.
Visitors drawn to nature, coffee farms, and colonial architecture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common on weekends.
Rural roads and hills attract cyclists; scenic routes around the town.
Traditional Colombian sport enjoyed in rural social clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Silvania.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetarian options like soups, salads, arepas, and rice with beans; ask for vegetables and cheese as fillings.