Things To Do
in Soacha
Soacha is a rapidly growing municipality just south of Bogotá, perched in the Andean foothills with a mix of urban and rural vibes. The city serves as a gateway to the capital and offers lively markets, street food, and affordable culture. Its residents are diverse, with strong community life around parks and plazas.
Visitors should expect a vibrant, approachable atmosphere with easy access to both city amenities and nearby natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Museo Comunitario de Soacha, where local history and traditions are vividly showcased. Wander through exhibits highlighting indigenous heritage and the town’s evolution over centuries. Sip a fresh Colombian coffee at a nearby café while soaking in the morning atmosphere of this vibrant community.
Head to the Plaza Principal to admire the colonial architecture and watch local artisans crafting traditional items. Enjoy a lunch of typical Soachuno dishes such as tamales or arepas at a bustling neighborhood eatery. Spend some time chatting with vendors and learning about the cultural significance of their crafts.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Soacha River promenade as the sun sets, with the city lighting up in the background. Visit a local plaza where folk music performances often take place, immersing yourself in the rhythms of Cundinamarca. Conclude your day by savoring a warm chocolate con leche at a traditional bakery.
Start your morning with a refreshing walk through Parque Principal de Soacha, enjoying the lush greenery and the sounds of native birds. Participate in a local morning exercise group or yoga session often held in the open spaces. Capture photographs of the park’s vibrant flowers and sculptures as the town awakens.
After a picnic lunch in the park, rent a bicycle and explore the nearby trails leading to scenic views of the surrounding Andean foothills. Stop by small roadside stalls to try fresh tropical fruits unique to the region. Visit the nearby Botanical Garden section to learn about Colombia’s diverse plant species.
As dusk falls, join local families who gather in the park to play games and socialize, offering a glimpse into community life. Enjoy street food delicacies from vendors, such as empanadas and obleas, while listening to informal musical gatherings. End your evening with a peaceful sit by the park fountains, reflecting on the day’s natural beauty.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee and snack | $2-4 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center, 1 month) | $350-700 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🚆Public transportation monthly pass | $30-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable access to both urban amenities and nearby natural scenery
- Close to Bogotá for day trips and cultural experiences
- Vibrant markets and street food scene with affordable options
- Friendly, community-focused atmosphere
- Safety varies by neighborhood; some areas require caution
- Public transport can be crowded and less predictable during peak hours
- Nightlife centers in a few areas; broader entertainment may require travel to Bogotá
- Infrastructure development can mean uneven sidewalks in older parts
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el Mercado Municipal?" - Where is the Municipal Market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Necesito un taxi, por favor" - I need a taxi, please
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Perdón, ¿puedo tomar una foto?" - Excuse me, may I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Soacha
Visit one of these nice places.
A bustling city park with daily life, fountains, and colorful street scenes.
Elevated spots offering city skylines with the Andean backdrop.
Food in Soacha
Soacha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken, potato, and corn soup, classic comfort food found in Bogotá and Soacha.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn bread fried or grilled, often enjoyed as a snack or with cheese.
A breakfast soup of milk, eggs, and scallions, commonly eaten with bread.
A large platter featuring beef, beans, rice, plantains, and hogao sauce; a robust sample of regional flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main municipal market with fresh produce, meat, and prepared foods; great for sampling snacks.
Arepas, empanadas, buñuelos, yuca frita, and fresh fruit sold by local vendors throughout the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with eye contact is common; in friendly settings, a cheek kiss may be used among close acquaintances.
Be punctual for meetings; in social settings, late arrivals are common but appreciate advance notice.
Dress comfortably for the climate and settings; in religious sites, modest attire is respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Soacha
Ensure a smooth experience
In informal eateries tips are appreciated but not always expected; in larger restaurants aim for 5-10% if service is not included.
Cash is widely accepted; debit and credit cards are common in restaurants and shops; mobile payment apps are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny days with cool mornings and mild afternoons; evenings cooler; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Frequent afternoon showers; humidity rises; carry a light rain jacket and water-resistant gear.
Rainy days are common; trails can be slick; plan indoor activities for afternoons.
Temperature is mild year-round due to altitude; mornings can be chilly at higher elevations; pack layers.
Soacha at Night
Hiking in Soacha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban hill with views of Bogotá; accessible by hike or cable car; a short excursion from the city.
High-altitude, expansive landscapes with scenic hiking routes ideal for day trips.
Paramo ecosystems with lakes and abundant wildlife, reachable with a longer day trip.
Airports
How to reach Soacha by plane.
Bogotá's main international airport, about a short ride from Soacha depending on traffic; major hub for international travel and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of working families, students, and commuters; a strong sense of community in local neighborhoods.
People traveling to Bogotá for work or education, adding to the town's dynamic population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport with local leagues and informal games across neighborhoods.
Popular given the Andean terrain and scenic routes around the city and hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soacha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; look for beans, rice, corn-based dishes, vegetables, and cheese. Ask for hogao-free options and request dairy-free when needed.