Expert: Juan Carlos Valencia - 12/17/2008

Question
I'm going back to Colombia after 25 years and I'm trying to get a clue! How far is Villa de Leyva from Bogota? I'm travelling with a party of 5 including a 6 year old.  I've heard mixed distances and different travel times, one was 4 hours the other was 2 1/2 hours; can you shed some light??
"Lost Colombian"

Answer
Dear Lost Colombian...!

I guess you are going to find a different country from the one you left. I  hope you have a pleasant experience.

Villa de Leyva is not too far from Bogota, the distance could be 140 Km, but you have to take into account that a good portion of the road is through the mountains and that there are at least 3 different roads to get there. That could be the reason for the differences in travel times. If you take a bus the time could be a bit longer.

The place is one of my favourites in Colombia, it's safe, pretty, with excellent weather, good restaurants and hotels, nice side trips...it could get crowded during the christmas season and on some long weekends, so book your hotel or rental house far in advance.

The nights could be cold, so bring some sweaters.

Let me know if I can help you more.

Have a nice trip !

JC