Things To Do
in Sogamoso
Sogamoso is a highland city in Boyacá, Colombia, perched around 2,500 meters above sea level at coordinates 5.7167, -72.9208. It sits as a gateway to the era of the Muisca and offers a lively mix of markets, churches, and scenic viewpoints. The town is known for its friendly residents, vibrant plazas, and easy access to natural wonders nearby, especially Laguna de Tota.
With mild days and cool nights, Sogamoso provides a comfortable base for culture, history, and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh arepas and coffee. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Sogamoso, taking in the charming colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the Plaza de los Libertadores, where you can admire the statue of Simón Bolívar and the surrounding lush gardens.
After lunch at a traditional restaurant, head to the nearby Parish of Our Lady of the Rosary, known for its stunning façade and rich history. Spend some time exploring local artisan shops where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. As the afternoon sun sets, take a leisurely walk around the park, engaging with locals and soaking in the atmosphere.
Dine at one of Sogamoso's popular eateries, savoring regional specialties like ajiaco or bandeja paisa. After dinner, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a music or dance performance at a nearby venue. Conclude your evening by enjoying a relaxing stroll through the illuminated streets, appreciating the night sky over the Andes.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a trip to the Temple of the Sun in nearby Paipa, a site of great archaeological significance. Wander through the ancient ruins, marveling at the impressive stone structures and learning about the Muisca civilization. Capture stunning photos against the backdrop of the dramatic Andean landscape.
After exploring the temple, enjoy a picnic lunch in the surrounding park area, where you can relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Take a guided tour of the nearby Lake Sochagota, known for its thermal waters, where you can indulge in a soothing dip. As the afternoon progresses, engage in some light hiking along the lake's trails, taking in breathtaking views of the water and mountains.
Return to Sogamoso for dinner, choosing a local restaurant that offers dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, visit a nearby café for a sweet treat and a warm drink, experiencing the local flavors. Spend your evening strolling through the town square, where you might catch a glimpse of local artisans showcasing their crafts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🥗Basic lunch menu | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Muisca and highland culture with warm, welcoming people
- Excellent access to Laguna de Tota and scenic hiking nearby
- Generally affordable costs and relaxed pace
- Good base for day trips and rural explorations
- Nightlife is limited compared to bigger cities
- Altitude can cause mild altitude effects for some visitors
- Some services and infrastructure may be slower or more informal than urban centers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Sogamoso
Visit one of these nice places.
Crystalline reflections and a calm shoreline set against a dramatic Andean backdrop—an iconic highland lake scene.
Colonial church facades, plazas, and cobblestone streets offer classic town photography with local characters.
Panoramic views over the rooftops and surrounding hills, ideal for sunset silhouettes and cityscapes.
Food in Sogamoso
Sogamoso Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting milk-and-egg soup often enjoyed with bread for breakfast; look for it at local eateries.
Must-Try!
Corn dough filled with pork or chicken, vegetables, and spices wrapped and steamed, a staple at festive meals.
A thicker, savory corn cake that pairs nicely with cheese, eggs, or local stews.
A hearty stew featuring potatoes, corn, meat, and vegetables, ideal after a day outdoors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, dairy, prepared foods, and casual stalls offering arepas and empanadas.
Courtyards and sidewalks filled with quick bites, sweets, and drinks—good for a informal bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends; start conversations with greetings like 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.'
Dress modestly and speak softly near churches or religious sites; always ask before entering private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Sogamoso
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is not included. For bars or street vendors, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Carry some local currency (COP) for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect clearer skies and comfortable daytime temperatures; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Afternoon showers are common; bring a light rain layer and waterproof gear for longer excursions.
Sogamoso at Night
Hiking in Sogamoso
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An impressive high-altitude plateau with striking landscapes and wide horizons, best with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Sogamoso by plane.
Main international hub with domestic connections; from Bogotá you can fly or drive to Sogamoso.
Major hub with frequent flights to many Colombian cities; helps connect to regional routes.
Another central hub offering wide connections; useful for planning broader itineraries in Colombia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in urban areas, with strong cultural ties to Boyacá traditions.
Historical descendants in the region who contribute to local crafts, music, and rituals.
People moving between countryside towns and Sogamoso for work and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and matches drawing community attention.
Scenic routes and hilly terrain make cycling a common activity for locals and visitors.
Played in schools and community centers; often enjoyed in local gyms and outdoor courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sogamoso.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many side dishes and vegetables are readily available; ask about meat-free soups and arepas with cheese.
Corn-based dishes are common; confirm cross-contamination practices at markets and larger restaurants.
If avoiding dairy, request non-dairy versions of milk-based soups or sauces and verify with staff.