PAIPA – DUITAMA

We suggest spending two days here, or at least a day and a half. Depending on your schedule, you could start or end your day in Paipa, a town famous for its hot springs which you absolutely can’t miss. Not only are they delightfully warm, but they also have medicinal properties! In addition to enjoying the spa and delicious local cuisine, you can visit the Méndez family and Wilmer Pulido, renowned weavers, where you’ll find some of the finest ruanas in the region. Then, head towards Duitama, just 13 kilometers away. You could easily spend a day here meeting local artisans and visiting their workshops, where you can learn about wool weaving, crochet, leatherwork, and wood carving. Don’t miss the colorful Pueblito Boyacense, the Miniature Village that’s a symbol of the department, where you’ll see replicas of the famous Villa de Leyva square, sculptures from Ráquira, church facades, and the iconic monument to Los Lanceros del Pantano de Vargas by Rodrigo Arenas Betancur. The entry fee is modest, and parking is convenient, plus you can savor all the Boyacá delicacies while you’re there. It’s a picturesque spot that embodies the region’s rich artisan culture.

DUITAMA – PUNTA LARGA

Only 8 km from Duitama, Punta Larga is another must-see destination on any Boyacá tour because of its stunning landscape. Here, you’ll meet the master wood carvers who craft the colonial-style furniture you’ll find in hotels, restaurants, and traditional homes throughout the region. While in Punta Larga, make sure to visit the Marqués de Punta Larga vineyard, a regional icon known for its excellent wines. This charming vineyard guarantees a delightful time with great food and a selection of smooth wines. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the area’s artisan culture and admire the Spanish heritage present in the region’s architecture.

PUNTA LARGA - TIBASOSA – IZA - TOTA

At Punta Larga, you’ll need to make a choice: either continue on to Monguí or head towards Iza. If you choose the latter, let yourself be tempted by the sweet scent of feijoa fruits, a regional delicacy that is popular in Tibasosa (8 km away) and Iza (25 km away). End your trip with a visit to the breathtaking Laguna de Tota (36 km away), an enormous lake with a stunning blue hue. Iza, known as the Green Nest of Boyacá, is a town with a long tradition of weaving and is recognized as a cultural heritage site due to its rich historical, natural, and culinary wealth, including the Pozo Verde hot springs. The town’s compact size makes it one of the seven Nativity towns of Colombia. Visit the Divino Salvador de la Piedra de Iza Temple, built in adobe in 1678. While you’re walking around, you’ll encounter a cypress pine tree with the effigy of Francisco Cristancho, the composer of the famous “Torbellino de mi tierra”. This pine tree is itself a local treasure, planted by the Chorographic Commission in 1850. Iza also boasts murals and monuments throughout the town, along with excellent dining options (don’t miss the local trout), cozy accommodations, and glamping. If you’re into ecotourism, get ready for cycling and hiking.