Things To Do
in Subachoque
Subachoque is a highland town in Cundinamarca, perched on the Andean plateau north of Bogotá. It blends agricultural life with a small-town charm, anchored by a historic church and a quiet main plaza. The area is known for cool temperatures, expansive green hills, and working farms that produce dairy, corn, and potatoes.
Visitors come seeking outdoor escapes, local cuisine, and a glimpse of rural Colombia away from the city bustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a delicious Colombian breakfast at a local café, enjoying arepas and fresh coffee. Then, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of Subachoque, admiring the colorful houses and the charming architecture. Visit the main square and soak in the lively atmosphere, interacting with friendly locals.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided hike to the nearby hills where you can witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Pack a traditional Colombian lunch to enjoy amidst nature, giving you a taste of local flavors surrounded by stunning vistas. Afterward, visit a nearby coffee plantation to learn about the intricate coffee-making process and sample some freshly brewed coffee.
As the sun sets, experience the warm Colombian hospitality by dining at a local restaurant that serves traditional dishes. Enjoy live music or dance performances that capture the essence of the region's culture. Finally, take a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences under the starry night sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh fruits and handmade crafts from local vendors. Engage with the artisans and learn about their techniques while enjoying the vibrant colors and sounds around you. Complete your morning with a visit to the local church, a beautiful example of colonial architecture.
Spend the afternoon visiting cultural sites such as the Subachoque Museum where you can delve into the history of the area. Participate in a traditional cooking class, learning how to make popular dishes from the region using locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy your culinary creations with fellow participants for a memorable lunch.
In the evening, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by visiting a bar known for live music and local brews. Engage in conversations with other visitors and locals, sharing stories and laughter over traditional drinks. End your night with a nightcap while enjoying the rhythmic sounds of vallenato music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚗Local transportation (one-way) | $1-2 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.60-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm pace of life and scenic Andean countryside
- Friendly locals and strong agricultural heritage
- Accessible day trips from Bogotá and nearby towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist-focused services
- Rural transport can be less predictable; plan for longer travel times
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Subachoque
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square framed by traditional buildings and the church; ideal for morning light and street photography.
Historic church with a simple façade and bell tower—great for architectural shots.
Open fields, dairy farms, and hillside lanes offering wide-angle shots of Andean landscapes.
Pull-off spots along rural roads with expansive valley and distant mountain views, especially at sunset.
Food in Subachoque
Subachoque Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa baked with melted cheese, a comforting staple often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.
Must-Try!
A hearty potato soup enriched with local herbs and potatoes, perfect for cool evenings.
Corn-dough tamales filled with meat and vegetables, commonly found at markets and family tables.
A morning milk-based soup with egg and herbs, a traditional Bogotá–highlands breakfast option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small town market offering fresh dairy, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks like arepas and tamales.
Casual stalls and small vendors offering quick bites such as empanadas, sweet breads, and fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a friendly demeanor goes a long way.
Be polite, ask before taking photos of people, and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; show respect in sacred spaces.
Be courteous when negotiating; a smile and light conversation are common and appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Subachoque
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% at restaurants; in casual places rounding up is common.
Cash is widely used in small towns; cards are increasingly accepted in larger eateries and hotels; some vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunnier days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor activities and photography, but evenings can be chilly.
Afternoon showers are common; trails can be slippery, so bring waterproof gear and sturdy footwear.
Subachoque at Night
Hiking in Subachoque
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail routes through the surrounding hills offering panoramic valley views and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
High-elevation hikes with unique páramo ecosystems and striking, windswept landscapes; require proper gear and planning.
Airports
How to reach Subachoque by plane.
Bogotá’s main international gateway; typically a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Subachoque depending on traffic.
A smaller general aviation airport serving the Bogotá area; limited commercial service and primarily used for private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A rural community with families and farming households; demographics reflect traditional Andean village life, with mestizo and local indigenous influences in surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia; widely played in plazas and on community fields.
Popular on hilly rural roads; local groups often organize weekend rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Subachoque.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy arepa de choclo, soups, beans, salads, and fresh fruit; ask for vegetables or legumes in place of meat broths.