Top 5 Things to Do in Villa de Leyva

1. Explore the Plaza Mayor and the colonial old town

Villa de Leyva's Plaza Mayor is one of the largest and best-preserved in Colombia, surrounded by cobblestone streets, whitewashed colonial houses and traditional balconies. A walk through these streets connects you with the history of a town declared a National Monument of Colombia.

2. Visit Casa Terracota

Just 10 minutes from the Plaza Mayor, Casa Terracota is considered the largest habitable ceramic sculpture in the world, designed by architect Octavio Mendoza Morales. The guided tour covers both its history and the architectural solutions built entirely from clay, water, air and fire.

3. See the Pozos Azules

A few minutes from town on the road to Santa Sofía, the Pozos Azules are pools of striking turquoise water, coloured by minerals in the soil. Swimming is no longer allowed, but they remain an unmissable natural viewpoint for photos, especially at sunset.

4. Hike the Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary

Just outside Villa de Leyva, the Iguaque Sanctuary offers Andean forest and páramo trails — the Ie Sué trail, or the Bachué trail, which climbs to the sacred Muisca lagoon at 3,640 metres. Ideal for travellers after a nature and hiking day with a local guide.

5. Get your adrenaline going on an ATV or horseback ride

The countryside around Villa de Leyva is made for adventure: ATV tours along dirt trails to waterfalls like Pozo Cielo, or multi-hour horseback rides out to Pozo de la Vieja. Two very different ways to take in the desert and mountain landscapes surrounding the town.

Worth adding to your trip

• Museo El Fósil, home to the Kronosaurus boyacensis, one of the most complete plesiosaur fossils in the world.
• Local vineyards like Ain Karim, with guided tastings and food pairings.
• The Ostrich Farm, a hands-on, family-friendly experience with these exotic birds.

Tips for your visit

• The historic centre is very walkable, but you will need transport to reach the attractions outside town.
• Pack sunscreen and comfortable clothing: days are dry and sunny, nights are cold.
• Plan for at least 2 to 3 days to enjoy the town and its surroundings without rushing.