Things To Do
in Villa de San Diego de Ubaté
Villa de San Diego de Ubaté sits on the Bogotá savanna at a cool, high altitude. This historic town blends colonial architecture with rural charm, surrounded by dairy farms and green pastures. The town is a hub for local markets and traditional crafts, offering a gateway to nearby lagoons and páramo landscapes.
Visitors can experience a tranquil Colombian small-town vibe with easy access to nature and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the bustling central plaza market where vendors display fresh Andean fruits, artisanal cheeses, and fragrant coffee beans. Take time to chat with local farmers and learn about Ubaté’s rich dairy heritage as you sip on a warm cup of tinto. The colorful stalls and lively bargaining atmosphere offer a genuine glimpse into everyday life in Villa de San Diego de Ubaté.
Continue your culinary journey by sampling traditional snacks such as pandebono and arepas made with farm-fresh ingredients at a nearby food stall. Wander through narrow cobblestone alleys to discover hidden corners of the market where handmade crafts and woven textiles are sold. Wrap up your afternoon with a refreshing juice made from exotic local berries, enjoying the sunlit ambiance of the plaza.
As dusk falls, settle on a bench at Plaza Principal to watch families gather and musicians play live vallenato melodies. Order a plate of carantanta and enjoy the sweet-and-savory flavors under the glow of streetlamps. Feel the rhythm of the town as night markets spring to life and laughter fills the air.
Explore the town’s colonial core by visiting the ornate Immaculate Conception Church, gazing up at its baroque façade and hand-painted frescoes. Stroll past centuries-old adobe buildings draped in bougainvillea, imagining the stories they hold. A local guide will regale you with tales of Spanish settlers and indigenous communities that shaped Ubaté’s history.
Head to the municipal museum housed in a restored hacienda to examine antique furniture, religious artifacts, and archival photographs. Pause at a small courtyard café to savor a slice of traditional fruitcake and a fresh herbal infusion. Then take a leisurely walk along the stone pathways of the historic cemetery to appreciate the craftsmanship of each ornate tombstone.
Return to the plaza and join a guided lantern-lit tour of the town’s most iconic monuments as them glow under the night sky. Listen to folk legends recounted by storytellers who breathe life into Ubaté’s past. Cap off the night with a sampling of hot chocolate and cuajada cheese while seated on wooden benches, enveloped by the gentle evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚍Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🧺Grocery meal ingredients | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful small-town atmosphere
- Rich dairy and agriculture heritage
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer international dining options
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "Hable más despacio, por favor" - Speak slower, please
Places to Visit in Villa de San Diego de Ubaté
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic highland lagoon ideal for sunrise and birdlife photography.
Historic central square framed by colonial architecture and a lively market.
A charming church with simple colonial details and a reflective interior.
Food in Villa de San Diego de Ubaté
Villa de San Diego de Ubaté Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, slightly salty cheese produced locally; great with bread or arepas.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa often enjoyed with cheese or butter.
A hearty chicken and potato soup common in the region, especially in cooler evenings.
A comforting meat and plantain stew reflecting Andean influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market offering fresh dairy, produce, and traditional snacks; best in the morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly saludos; a handshake is common in formal settings; address older people as Senor/Señora.
Be punctual for appointments; in social settings, arrive a bit later as a courtesy.
Ask permission when taking portraits of people; avoid photographing private properties without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Villa de San Diego de Ubaté
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant tips are appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% is common if service is not included. Street vendors rarely expect tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and pleasant days make outdoor exploration ideal, though mornings can be chilly.
Frequent short showers; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof shoes for trails.
Villa de San Diego de Ubaté at Night
Hiking in Villa de San Diego de Ubaté
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat-to-moderate trails along the lagoon with birdwatching opportunities.
Short climbs offering panoramic views of the highland plains.
Scenic day walks through farmland and small forested patches.
Airports
How to reach Villa de San Diego de Ubaté by plane.
Bogotá's main international hub; about 2-3 hours by road from Villa de Ubaté.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly agricultural families and residents of the savanna; strong local traditions.
People who commute to and from Ubaté for work and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local matches and community leagues.
Benefiting from scenic rural roads and hilly terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Villa de San Diego de Ubaté.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable stews, arepas with plantains, fresh fruit plates; many places can adapt dishes.