Things To Do
in Tenjo
Tenjo is a tranquil highland town in Cundinamarca, just north of Bogotá, surrounded by rolling green hills and coffee farms. It sits at a cool elevation, offering crisp air and scenic views across the Andean countryside. The town has a small-town charm with colorful colonial-style buildings and a welcoming community, ideal for a relaxed escape from the capital.
Visitors come for fresh coffee, local cuisine, and easy access to nearby nature trails and viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Tenjo, where you can admire the traditional colonial architecture. Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh fruits and handmade crafts. Don't miss the chance to capture photos of the colorful facades and quaint plazas.
Indulge in a traditional Colombian lunch at a local eatery, perhaps trying the famous bandeja paisa or sancocho. Afterward, head to the nearby Parque Principal to relax and enjoy the lush gardens while mingling with friendly locals. A visit to the church of San Juan Bautista will deepen your appreciation for the town's rich history.
As day turns to night, find a cozy café to sip on Colombian coffee or hot chocolate, soaking in the local culture. The evening is perfect for a stroll around the park, where often you can catch local artisans showcasing their crafts. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Get ready for adventure by starting your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby hills for a hiking expedition. The scenic trails offer breathtaking views of the countryside and are perfect for nature lovers. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the diverse array of flora along the way.
After a fulfilling hike, grab lunch at a local spot that serves traditional dishes. Post-lunch, consider visiting a nearby coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process and perhaps participate in a tasting session. This experience will deepen your appreciation for Colombia's famous coffee culture.
Return to Tenjo for an evening of relaxation, enjoying the views from a terrace or balcony. Sample some local desserts like arequipe or buñuelos while you unwind. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers or locals, making for memorable connections.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee in local cafe | $1-2 |
| 🛒Monthly groceries | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil rural charm and easy access from Bogotá
- Green landscapes and coffee culture
- Friendly locals and authentic food
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist facilities
- Occasional gaps in transportation to remote trails
- "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good morning
- "¿Dónde queda la Plaza de Tenjo?" - Where is Tenjo's Plaza?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Tenjo
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial facades and early-morning light create classic town photography with a sense of place.
A lookout point offering sweeping views across the valley toward Bogotá’s distant skyline on clear days.
Historic street with flower-adorned balconies, rustic doors, and a sense of rural-urban contrast.
Nearby coffee farms provide misty hillsides and rows of coffee plants for atmospheric farm photography.
Food in Tenjo
Tenjo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa, often served with cheese or butter; a staple snack and breakfast item.
Must-Try!
A hearty potato and chicken soup often enjoyed with capers and cream; common in the region.
Thick rural stew with plantains, yuca, corn, and chicken or pork; served with rice and avocado.
Steamed corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and seasonings; widely sold at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, dairy, arepas, cheeses, and regional snacks; try freshly prepared arepas and empanadas.
Grab quick bites like arepas, corn masa pastries, and fruit juices from small vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos días; a handshake and warm eye contact are common.
Smart casual is typical; modest attire for churches and religious sites is appreciated.
Polite address to elders; maintain calm behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Tenjo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always included; 5-10% in tidy restaurants if service is good; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; carry small bills for street vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor hikes and scenic walks with long daylight.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings may be sunny, so plan outdoor activities earlier in the day and pack a light rain shell.
Variable weather with mixed sun and showers; landscapes are lush and vibrant, perfect for photography and agriculture tours.
Tenjo at Night
Hiking in Tenjo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic lookout hike offering panoramic views of the valley and Bogotá skyline on clear days.
Waterfall hike along forested trails near agricultural settlements.
Airports
How to reach Tenjo by plane.
Bogotá’s main international and domestic hub; about 40-60 minutes by car from Tenjo under typical traffic conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families involved in agriculture and small-scale commerce, many commuting to Bogotá for work.
People who live in Tenjo but work in Bogotá or nearby towns.
Visitors seeking nature, coffee culture, and a rural escape from the capital.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and casual games are common, especially on weekends.
Popular on scenic rural roads; many visitors and locals enjoy long, quiet rides through the valley.
Community courts and local leagues provide opportunities for casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tenjo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature beans, corn, potatoes, and vegetables; request veggie options and confirm no carne bases in broths or sauces.