Things To Do
in Simijaca
Simijaca is a picturesque town located in the Cundinamarca Department of Colombia. It is known for its beautiful rural landscapes, including lush green mountains and fertile valleys. The town has a rich agricultural tradition, producing crops such as potatoes, corn, and beans.
Simijaca is also famous for its annual Potato Festival, attracting visitors from near and far to celebrate this important crop.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk through the lush hills surrounding Simijaca. The morning dew and chirping birds will uplift your spirit.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of Colombia. Taste some delicious street food and engage with friendly locals.
Wind down your day by enjoying a peaceful sunset at a nearby viewpoint. Reflect on your day while watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors.
Visit the local museums to discover the rich history of Simijaca. Learn about indigenous cultures and the area’s evolution over the years.
Join a guided tour of the historical landmarks in town. Don’t miss the beautiful church that stands at the center of this charming locale.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Colombian dishes. Savor the flavors and perhaps make a new friend at your table.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and biodiversity.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban centers.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped.
- Employment opportunities can be scarce.
- Potential issues with security and safety in certain areas.
- Seasonal weather patterns that may affect living conditions.
Best Activities in Simijaca
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of Chicaque Natural Park, located nearby. The park offers various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
Simijaca is located in a biodiverse region, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. Spot native species and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Visit the beautiful Guatavita Lagoon, a sacred site for the Muisca people. Enjoy scenic views, take a guided tour, and learn about the history and legends associated with this iconic location.
Take advantage of the rough terrains and picturesque scenery around Simijaca for an exciting mountain biking adventure. Various trails are available for both beginners and experienced bikers.
Set up camp or have a picnic in one of the many scenic spots in the area. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, perfect for family and friends.
Experience coffee tourism by visiting local coffee plantations. Learn about the coffee-making process, enjoy tastings, and appreciate the cultural significance of coffee in the region.
Try your hand at fishing in the nearby rivers. It's a great way to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings while possibly catching a local fish.
Places to Visit in Simijaca
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural park located near Simijaca, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lush cloud forests, ideal for nature photography.
This hill provides panoramic views of Simijaca and the nearby valleys. It's a great spot for capturing sunset photos.
An iconic rock formation that offers breathtaking vistas of the landscape below, perfect for adventurous photographers.
Though a bit further from Simijaca, this famous lagoon is known for its picturesque beauty and historical significance, ideal for landscape photography.
A beautiful waterfall that provides an excellent backdrop for photographs, with lush greenery surrounding it.
A viewpoint that showcases spectacular cloud views and sunrise moments, making it a must-visit for photographers.
Food in Simijaca
Simijaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with chicken, corn, potatoes, and a variety of local herbs and spices, typically served with avocado and capers. A must-try that can be found in traditional Colombian restaurants in Simijaca.
Must-Try!
A platter of assorted grilled meats such as chorizo, chicharrón, and beef, accompanied by potatoes, plantains, and arepas. Look for this delicious dish at local street food vendors or traditional eateries in Simijaca.
A savory roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. This iconic dish is usually available at specialty eateries or during local festivals and celebrations in Simijaca.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this bustling market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and find an array of fresh local produce, traditional snacks, and authentic Colombian street food.
This traditional market is a great place to sample an assortment of local street food including empanadas, arepas, and tropical fruits, all while immersing yourself in the lively local culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Simijaca, it's customary to greet people with a handshake or a warm hug, especially among friends and family. Use formal titles like 'Señor' or 'Señora' if you don't know the person well.
Family is highly valued in Colombian culture. Show respect for family members and avoid making negative comments about family matters. It's common to ask about someone's family as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly and neatly, especially when visiting public places or attending religious events. Colombians take pride in their appearance, so dressing well is a sign of respect for others.
Safety
Tipping in Simijaca
Ensure a smooth experience
In Simijaca, Colombia, tipping is generally seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service. It is customary to round up the bill in restaurants or leave a small tip, typically ranging from 10% to 15% of the total amount. Tipping is also common in other service industries, such as hotels and taxis, although it is not mandatory.
Payment practices in Simijaca are diverse, with cash being the most commonly accepted form of payment, particularly in smaller businesses and markets. Many establishments also accept debit and credit cards, especially in urban areas. Mobile payment options are gradually becoming more popular, but cash remains a vital medium for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Simijaca, as temperatures are moderate and rain is minimal. Expect sunny days, great visibility for outdoor activities, and vibrant local festivities during this period.
During the wet season, expect frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While the landscape is lush and green, outdoor activities may be interrupted by showers. However, this season is also less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience.
Visiting during January or August offers the opportunity to experience traditional festivals in Simijaca. Expect lively celebrations, local food, music, and cultural events that showcase the town's heritage.
Simijaca at Night
Hiking in Simijaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park located a short drive from Simijaca, offering a range of hiking trails through lush forests and amazing viewpoints.
A beautiful waterfall hike that includes a trek through varied landscapes, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.
A local hiking destination known for its scenic routes and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
A reservoir area that provides several walking and hiking paths along the water's edge, ideal for nature lovers.
This area offers trails that pass through rich biodiversity, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora.
Aiports
How to reach Simijaca by plane.
Located in Bogotá, this is the busiest airport in Colombia, serving as a major international gateway.
Located near Medellín, this airport serves as a key international hub for travelers in the region.
Located in the city of Cali, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, catering to a significant number of passengers.
Located in Cartagena, this airport is a primary point of entry for international travelers visiting the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
Located in Palmira, it serves Cali and the Valle del Cauca region, being a significant international airport in Colombia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Simijaca, comprising individuals of mixed Indigenous and European descent.
A smaller population representing the original inhabitants of the region, with their distinct languages and cultures.
A minority population in Simijaca, descendants of Africans brought to the region during the colonial period.
An increasingly smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of descendants of Spanish settlers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Simijaca, played and followed passionately by locals of all ages.
Cycling is a favored outdoor activity, with various trails available for both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Basketball enjoys a growing popularity, especially among the youth, with community courts available for casual play.
Volleyball is played both recreationally and competitively, often in schools and local tournaments.
Rugby has been gaining traction in the area, with local teams forming and participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simijaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine is meat-centric, several eateries in Simijaca offer delicious vegetarian and vegan alternatives, including plantain-based dishes, hearty soups, and fresh salads.
Those with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, rice and beans, and tropical fruit desserts, which are commonly available and not derived from wheat products.