Things To Do
in Simijaca
Simijaca is a small Andean town in Cundinamarca, Colombia, set among rolling farmland and gentle hills. The town center centers on a traditional plaza framed by a welcoming parish church and low-rise colonial buildings. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with farmers and local families shaping daily rhythms.
Visitors come for authentic rural charm, friendly faces, and easy access to nearby nature escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arriving in Simijaca, the crisp air and stunning mountain backdrop welcome you. After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring regional ingredients. Take a leisurely stroll around the village to soak in the charm of local architecture.
Visit the Plaza Principal to admire the vibrant atmosphere of community life and perhaps indulge in some local snacks. Interact with the locals to learn about their daily routines and culture. Explore nearby artisan shops to discover unique crafts that capture the essence of Simijaca.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet dinner at a local eatery, savoring hearty Colombian dishes. Engage with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and experiences. Retire early or take a night walk to experience the serenity of the mountains under the stars.
Embark on an early morning hike to the nearby hills, where the breathtaking views of the Andean landscape await. Pack a hearty breakfast and enjoy it amid the scenic beauty at a viewpoint. The invigorating trek will fill you with energy for the day ahead.
Return to Simijaca for lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Colombian dishes such as arepas. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby coffee farms to learn about the coffee-making process and indulge in fresh brews. Embrace the warm, inviting atmosphere of Colombian hospitality while chatting with the farmers.
Wind down with a guided night walk to witness the region's nocturnal wildlife. Experience the tranquility of nature as you reflect on a day filled with adventure. Enjoy a simple yet satisfying dinner under the stars at your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚌Local transport (short bus/taxi ride) | $0.5-2 per ride |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $25-60 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Authentic rural Colombian experience with easy access to nature
- Affordability and straightforward travel logistics
- Compact town center that's walkable and safe for daytime exploration
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Public transport may be infrequent outside the main town center
- Healthcare facilities are basic locally; more complex care requires travel to bigger cities
- Some rural roads can be rough during the rainy season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de inglés" - I speak a little English
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a good place to eat?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Simijaca
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled squares, the parish church, and daily life provide candid and architectural photo opportunities at different light throughout the day.
Historic church architecture with colorful facades and arches, ideal for portraits and detail shots.
Quiet lanes and hillside views over farmlands and crops, perfect for landscape photography at golden hour.
Vibrant market scenes, fresh produce, and friendly vendors offering character-filled scenes.
Food in Simijaca
Simijaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa filled with local cheese, commonly enjoyed for breakfast or snacks.
Must-Try!
A creamy potato and cheese stew with herbs, perfect for cool highland days.
A comforting rural stew with chicken or beef, corn on the cob, plantains, and root vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market where you can grab fresh produce, cheeses, arepas, and quick snacks from friendly stallholders.
Casual spots offering arepas, empanadas, fresh fruit, and coffee; ideal for a quick, affordable bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm “Buenos días/tardes” or a simple handshake with eye contact is customary when meeting people.
Politeness and small talk are valued; avoid raising your voice in public and show patience in queues and with service staff.
Dress modestly in churches and rural settings; remove hats indoors and in religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Simijaca
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a small tip (around 5-10%) is common if service is good or if a service charge isn’t included. It’s also common to round up change for taxi rides.
Cash is widely accepted in rural areas, while larger restaurants and shops nearby may take credit/debit cards. ATMs are available in town, but keep small bills handy for street vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically dry and sunny with cooler mornings and warm afternoons; ideal for outdoor activities and long walks, but evenings can be cool.
Frequent afternoon showers and thicker humidity; carry a light rain layer and be prepared for muddy paths in rural areas.
Simijaca at Night
Hiking in Simijaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes offering valley views, farmland scenery, and opportunities to observe local flora and birds.
Elevated vantage points along rural routes providing sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Simijaca by plane.
The region’s main international gateway; typically reached by road from Simijaca in a few hours and serves as the primary link for international travel and long-distance connections.
A smaller domestic airport serving regional flights; useful for quick domestic hops and as a backup option when traveling to and from higher-altitude towns nearby.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly farming families and long-term residents who maintain local traditions and a close-knit community feel.
People who travel to nearby towns for work or schooling, maintaining a steady, small-town regional dynamic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played casually in plazas and more formally in local leagues.
Popular among locals and visitors for scenic rides through the Andean countryside.
A traditional activity in the rural areas around Simijaca, offering scenic treks through farms and hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simijaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most traditional spots; look for salads, soups like locro de papa, beans, and cheese-filled dishes. If unsure, ask for vegetables and starches without meat and request cheese or yogurt to supplement protein.