Weekend in Villa de Leyva - learn Spanish in Colombia
Colombia has a lot of public holidays. In fact, it has one of the highest number of holidays in the whole world! This provides a perfect chance to explore more of this beautiful country. Last Monday was a holiday, and I went to visit Villa de Leyva in the Boyacá region.
This was my first ‘bigger’ trip in Colombia. I was meeting friends in Villa de Leyva so I had to travel there on my own. I was a little nervous, but it was a great opportunity to test out my Español I have been learning at EHE Spanish School in El Socorro! In our classes we get loads of practice speaking and listening, but it’s always fun to be able to use this in the real world. Of course it’s not easy as a new Spanish speaker but it’s a good feeling when you’re able to communicate on your own… whether that’s to introduce yourself to a local, buy a bus ticket, order a coffee or ask for directions!
Why Villa de Leyva?
Originally, I had planned on spending the weekend in Cali. But a last minute change of plans meant I was headed to Villa de Leyva instead. It turned out to be much better than I expected, and I had a great time! Villa de Leyva has been described as one of the most beautiful small towns in Colombia, and it’s easy to see why.
It is a colonial town with heritage white washed buildings, a large town plaza and cobbled streets. It’s also famous for archaeology, with several important dinosaur fossils found near the town.
Villa de Leyva is very tourist friendly. There are a wide range of activities, tours and museums for all interests. The town has a good range of shops, restaurants and accommodation.
The weekend I visited coincided with the annual kite festival. This event brings many tourists from around Colombia and the rest of the world to celebrate kites (and of course to party – Colombians love to party!). Feel free to pack your own kite as there are lots of activities for everyone to join in – you don’t have to be a professional. It’s an amazing event if you’re able to get attend I would highly recommend it.
Top Tip:
On festival weekends, the accommodation can be limited or expensive. Try and book in advance if possible!"
Getting there:
Villa de Leyva is about 3 hours by car from El Socorro (or 5 hours by bus via Tunja).
Things to do:
Some things I suggest for a weekend in Villa de Leyva include:
- Lake Iguaque – a beautiful park and lake close to town with nice view of the lakes and Villa de Leyva. You can walk, but I recommend taking a tour by horse back! There are lots of providers offering both short and long tours;
- Casa Terracota – a unique house you have to see to believe;
- One of the many dinosaur / fossil museums – I recommend El Fosil just outside out of town;
- Walking around the town and streets – It’s a very pretty town to explore, to take photos and buy souvenirs;
Enjoy good food:
There are many restaurants with food from all over the world including Colombian, Mexican, Italian, Korean, Japanese and French. Be sure to sample some Colombian chocolate, craft beer and wine. My picks are Saint Lucia for gelato, Tavolo for hamburgers and Tortello for pasta.
To Learn Spanish in Colombia is a great experience.
Jonathan Bugg
Tasmania, Australia
EHE Spanish School student