Things To Do
in Toca

A warming, potato-forward soup or stew made with local tubers, corn and sometimes chicken or pork; hearty and common in rural Boyacá, available at small family restaurants and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Fresh, slightly salty cheese produced by local dairy farms—great with bread or as part of breakfasts and sold at markets or directly from producers.

Simple grilled or fried corn patties often served with cheese or butter; a ubiquitous snack sold by street vendors and cafés.

A friendly handshake and eye contact are common; use formal address (usted) with elders or people you meet for the first time. A brief greeting is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Religious festivals and public rituals are taken seriously—behave respectfully, dress modestly and ask before photographing people during ceremonies.

Life in Toca moves at a relaxed pace—be patient, avoid loud behavior, and show courtesy to hosts and neighbors.

Clearer skies, cooler nights and good conditions for hiking and photography; popular time for travel in the region. Roads and rural tracks are easier to navigate but still bring layers for chilly mornings.

Frequent afternoon showers and muddy trails make outdoor plans more unpredictable—carry waterproof gear and expect occasional road slowdowns. Vegetation is lush and waterfalls and streams are fuller for dramatic photos.

At Toca’s elevation temperatures can drop suddenly, especially at night; bring warm layers year-round and be prepared for sun, wind and rain within a single day.

High-altitude páramo ecosystems accessible within driving distance—expect unique flora, moorland landscapes and birdlife; weather can be unpredictable so prepare accordingly.

National and regional protected areas in Boyacá offer longer treks, sacred lagoons and rich biodiversity—suitable for full-day excursions from Toca.

If you travel to Lake Tota, trails around the lake and nearby hills provide accessible hikes, birdwatching and scenic viewpoints.

The largest international airport serving Bogotá—most travelers fly into Bogotá then take a bus or drive to Boyacá; travel time by road varies but is typically several hours depending on traffic and route.

Regional airport with domestic connections; may be an alternative entry point for some travelers, with a similar multi-hour drive to reach Toca depending on the route taken.

Smaller airfields serve regional traffic intermittently; reliable scheduled services are limited, so confirm current operations and ground transport options before planning.

The majority of residents are involved in agriculture, dairy and small-scale farming, often living in multi-generational households.

Cultural roots include a mixture of indigenous Muisca heritage and Spanish colonial influences, visible in local traditions and festivals.

Like many rural towns, there is a significant elderly population, while younger people may travel to larger cities for education or work; community life centers around family and local institutions.

The most popular sport—locals follow and play football enthusiastically, and informal matches are common in town fields.

Boyacá is nationally renowned for producing top cyclists and cycling is a popular pastime and competitive sport; many visitors enjoy road cycling and scenic rides.

Equestrian activities are common in rural life and also offered for recreation, reflecting agricultural traditions.

Vegetarian options are available but limited—expect egg-, cheese- and vegetable-based dishes. Ask for vegetable stews, arepas with cheese, or plate-based meals without meat; specifying 'soy vegetariano' or 'no como carne' helps.

Vegan choices are more limited in rural areas; bring snacks and be prepared to explain restrictions. Markets provide fruits and grains; in restaurants ask for beans, rice and vegetable sides without dairy or butter.

Corn-based foods like arepas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur. Explain needs in Spanish ('sin gluten') and rely on simple preparations.