7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Bogota

Bogota, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, but even the most dedicated urbanite needs a break from the hustle and bustle. Digital nomads living in Bogota have the unique advantage of being able to explore a variety of weekend getaways that offer everything from colonial charm to natural wonders. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, there's something for everyone within a few hours of the city. Here are seven fun weekend getaways to recharge your batteries and satisfy your wanderlust.

Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva is a beautifully preserved colonial town that seems frozen in time, with its cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings. It's a perfect place to unwind and soak in the history and architecture. On weekends, the town square, one of the largest in South America, comes alive with markets and festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore nearby attractions such as the blue ponds of Pozos Azules and the prehistoric site of El Infiernito.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Villa de Leyva is by bus, which takes about 4 hours from Bogota. Buses depart regularly from the city's main terminal.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the local market on weekends where you can find handcrafted goods and taste traditional Colombian snacks.

Where to Stay: Casa Terra is a boutique hotel offering a tranquil retreat with a beautiful garden, while Hotel La Posada de San Antonio features colonial charm and a spa.

Where to Eat: Try Mercado Municipal for a variety of local dishes, or head to El Fósil for a meal with a view of the ancient fossil displayed inside the restaurant.

Zipaquirá

The town of Zipaquirá is home to the famous Salt Cathedral, an underground church built within the tunnels of a salt mine. This architectural marvel is not only a place of worship but also a unique art and cultural center. Above ground, Zipaquirá's charming streets and local markets offer a pleasant day trip experience.

How to Get There: Zipaquirá is about an hour's drive from Bogota. You can also take a train from the Usaquén station in Bogota on weekends, which offers scenic views along the way.

Travel Tip: Make sure to catch the light show inside the Salt Cathedral, which illuminates the underground space in vibrant colors.

Where to Stay: Hotel Cacique Real provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, and Hotel Camino de la Sal has a rustic feel with excellent service.

Where to Eat: La Carreta is a local favorite for its traditional Colombian cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Guatavita

The small town of Guatavita and the nearby Guatavita Lake offer a peaceful escape into nature. The lake is steeped in legend as the site of the El Dorado myth. Visitors can enjoy hiking around the lake, learning about the indigenous Muisca culture, and exploring the quaint town with its white buildings and red-tiled roofs.

How to Get There: Guatavita is about a 2-hour drive from Bogota. Public buses also run to the town, but renting a car will give you more flexibility to explore the area.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds and have a more serene experience by the lake.

Where to Stay: The charming Estancia San Antonio offers a cozy stay, while Glamping Guatavita provides a unique experience in luxury tents with stunning views.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Guatavita offers delicious local trout dishes with a view of the town's reservoir.

Choachí

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Choachí is a hidden gem. This small town is home to the impressive La Chorrera waterfall, Colombia's tallest at 590 meters. The hike to the waterfall takes you through lush cloud forests and offers breathtaking views. Choachí also has hot springs where you can relax after a day of hiking.

How to Get There: Choachí is about a 1.5-hour drive from Bogota. Public transportation is available, but a private car or taxi is recommended for convenience.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a rain jacket for the hike to La Chorrera, as the trail can be slippery and the weather unpredictable.

Where to Stay: Entre Niebla y Montaña is a cozy bed and breakfast with stunning mountain views, and Termales Santa Monica offers accommodation with access to the hot springs.

Where to Eat: La Fogata is a local spot known for its hearty soups and traditional Colombian dishes.

Suesca

Suesca is the go-to destination for rock climbing enthusiasts, with its towering cliffs offering routes for all skill levels. Even if you're not a climber, the area's beautiful landscapes are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and camping. The nearby Suesca Rocks are also a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the great outdoors.

How to Get There: Suesca is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Bogota. Buses also run regularly from the city's North Terminal.

Travel Tip: If you're new to rock climbing, consider hiring a guide or taking a class to safely enjoy the sport.

Where to Stay: Casona Quesada offers a comfortable stay with a historical touch, and Hostal Torre Alta is a budget-friendly option for climbers and backpackers.

Where to Eat: El Nómada is a cozy café with a variety of healthy options and great coffee.

La Vega

La Vega is a lesser-known tropical paradise just a short drive from Bogota. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a warm climate perfect for swimming in natural pools and rivers. La Vega is also a great place to experience the local culture, with friendly residents and typical Colombian cuisine.

How to Get There: La Vega is about a 2-hour drive from Bogota. Buses are available, but a car will give you more freedom to explore the surrounding countryside.

Travel Tip: Visit the local farmers' market on the weekend to sample fresh fruits and traditional sweets.

Where to Stay: Hotel La Selva Agroecológica offers a unique eco-friendly experience, and Finca Hotel Villa Cristina provides a relaxing retreat with pool facilities.

Where to Eat: Asadero El Muelle is known for its grilled meats and riverside location, offering a picturesque dining experience.

Tobia

Adventure seekers will love Tobia, a small town that's big on thrills. Known for its extreme sports, visitors can go white-water rafting on the Rio Negro, zip-lining through the forest canopy, or rappelling down waterfalls. The town itself is tranquil, providing a nice contrast to the adrenaline-pumping activities available in the surrounding area.

How to Get There: Tobia is about a 2-hour drive from Bogota. While public buses do service the town, having your own vehicle is more convenient for accessing the various adventure sites.

Travel Tip: Pack quick-dry clothing and a waterproof camera to capture the excitement without worrying about getting wet.

Where to Stay: Ecohotel El Reposo offers a peaceful stay with easy access to outdoor activities, and Finca Hotel Casa Baquero has a pool and comfortable amenities.

Where to Eat: Restaurante La Casona serves up hearty Colombian fare, perfect for refueling after a day of adventure.

These weekend getaways offer a refreshing change of pace for digital nomads living in Bogota. Whether you're looking to connect with nature, delve into history, or seek out adventure, there's a destination nearby to suit your interests.