Villa de Leyva: 2-Day Private Tour from Bogota, Museums, Fossils

Exploring Colombia’s Hidden Gems: A 2-Day Private Tour from Bogota to Villa de Leyva

Imagine stepping into a world where history, nature, and local culture blend seamlessly. This 2-day private tour from Bogota promises just that, taking you through Villa de Leyva, a town famed for its well-preserved colonial architecture and scenic surroundings. For just $94 per person, you’ll enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation, a private guide, and all entry tickets included. The tour excludes accommodations and meals, giving you the freedom to choose your preferred hotel in Villa de Leyva.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on personalized attention and flexibility. Your private guide ensures you get the highlights at your pace, and the comprehensive itinerary covers everything from historical monuments to fossils, and even a wine tasting. Two standout features are the historic Puente de Boyacá, a symbol of Colombian independence, and the fascinating fossil museums that bring the prehistoric past to life.

However, travelers should consider that transportation is in a premium vehicle, which is comfortable but may mean that early mornings or long drives are involved. Also, since hotel accommodations are not included, it’s best suited for those who already have their lodging sorted or prefer to book independently. This tour is ideal for history lovers, fossil enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Colombia’s colonial and natural heritage.

Key Points

• Comfortable Private Transport: Enjoy a smooth, air-conditioned ride from Bogota, ensuring a relaxed start to your adventure.
• Comprehensive Cultural Experience: Visit colonial landmarks, museums, and historic sites with a knowledgeable private guide.
• Rich in History and Nature: From Colombia’s independence at Puente de Boyacá to fossils dating over 100 million years, there’s plenty to see.
• Flexible and Personalized: The private guide allows you to tailor the visit to your interests and pace.
• All Entry Fees Covered: No surprise costs — all tickets are included in the price.
• Wine Tasting Opportunity: Conclude your trip with a visit to a high-altitude vineyard, sampling some excellent Colombian wine.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Day 1: From Bogota to Villa de Leyva via Puente de Boyacá and Colonial Streets

Your journey begins early in the morning with round-trip transport from your hotel or Airbnb in Bogota. The drive to Villa de Leyva, about three hours, is in a luxurious vehicle designed for comfort, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside.

The first stop is the Puente de Boyacá, a site of monumental importance for Colombia. This National Monument commemorates the pivotal battle that led to independence from Spain. It’s a quick 30-minute visit, but the significance is palpable as you walk across the stone bridge and imagine the footsteps of those who fought for freedom.

Next, the tour takes you into Villa de Leyva’s main square, a vast cobbled plaza surrounded by whitewashed colonial buildings. Here, the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Church dominates the scene—its elegant architecture and history dating back to 1604. We loved how the entire town feels like a living museum, with craft shops and cafes lining the streets. A full hour lets you soak in the atmosphere, snap photos of the fountain, and perhaps grab a coffee or a snack.

The Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Rosario on the square’s east side is another highlight. Built in the early 17th century, it’s a fine example of colonial Baroque and offers interior views of ornate altars and paintings. It’s a quick stop, but an essential one for understanding the town’s spiritual past.

Before concluding the day, you’ll visit the Casa Museo Antonio Nariño, dedicated to one of Colombia’s founding fathers. This 17th-century colonial house offers insights into the life and times of Nariño, and the guide will share stories that bring the colonial era to life. It’s a peaceful spot that combines history with beautiful architecture.

Day 2: Fossils, Monastery, and Wine in Villa de Leyva

The following morning, the focus shifts to prehistoric Colombia. The Centro de Investigaciones Paleontológicas (CIP) houses fossils over 100 million years old, including Ichthyosaurs and Sea Turtles. The fossils are displayed with clear explanations, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with paleontology. This stop deepens your appreciation for the region’s natural history.

Adjacent is the Fossil Community Museum, which emphasizes community involvement in preserving and showcasing fossils. Visitors often mention how engaging and educational the exhibits are, offering a broader understanding of Colombia’s geological past.

After an immersion in ancient life, you’ll visit the Santo Ecce Homo Convent, built in 1620 and linked to Colombia’s colonial religious history. The monastery also played a role during Colombia’s liberation, adding layers of historical significance. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere and religious art are worth noting.

The day culminates at the Umaña Dajud Vineyard, situated at 2,000 meters altitude. Here, you’ll see how Colombian wine is made, and enjoy a tasting of high-quality local wines. The factory tour gives insight into how grapes are cultivated and transformed, and the views from the vineyard are stunning. It’s a delightful way to end your trip, especially if you enjoy a good glass of wine and want to experience Colombia’s emerging wine scene.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The entire tour is designed for convenience: private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entry tickets are included. This means no fuss over navigating unfamiliar roads or figuring out ticket lines. The only things you need to handle are meals and your hotel stay in Villa de Leyva.

The tour’s flexibility allows you to spend more time at sites that interest you most. Whether you want to linger in the town’s charming streets or skip a museum to relax, your private guide can accommodate.

Authentic, Informed, and Enjoyable

Based on reviews, one thing that stood out was how knowledgeable guides made a huge difference. Travelers appreciated guides who brought history alive and tailored conversations to their interests. The fossil museums, in particular, seemed to impress visitors with their collections and engaging explanations.

Another highlight—many reviewers praised the spectacular views at the vineyard and the quality of the wines sampled. The high-altitude location adds a unique flavor to the experience, and the tour’s timing fits well with the local harvest season if you visit at the right time.

Practical Considerations

This tour is suited for those with moderate physical fitness. While most attractions are accessible and involve walking short distances, some sites like cobbled streets might require comfortable shoes. The total duration is just over two days, making it a manageable escape from Bogotá for a weekend or a short break.

Since accommodations aren’t included, travelers can choose their hotel in Villa de Leyva based on their preferences and budget, perhaps opting for charming colonial guesthouses or boutique hotels.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you are a history buff eager to connect with Colombia’s independence story while enjoying beautiful colonial architecture, you’ll love the stops at Puente de Boyacá and the main square. Fossil enthusiasts or natural history lovers will find the paleontology museums fascinating, especially since fossils date back over 100 million years.

Wine lovers and those curious about Colombia’s emerging wine industry will appreciate the vineyard visit with its scenic setting and excellent tasting options. The private, flexible nature of the tour makes it perfect for travelers who want a customized experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

This tour suits those looking for a balanced mix of history, natural science, and authentic local experiences in a comfortable, private setting. It’s especially good for travelers who value personalized service, educational content, and scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a premium vehicle from your Bogota hotel or Airbnb is included for both days.

Are tickets to the attractions included?
All entry fees for museums, archaeological sites, and the vineyard are covered in the tour price.

Do I need to arrange my hotel in Villa de Leyva?
Yes, accommodations are not included, so you will need to book your own hotel in Villa de Leyva.

How long is the drive from Bogota to Villa de Leyva?
The drive takes approximately three hours each way, allowing for a comfortable journey in a private vehicle.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the tour involves some walking and moderate activity, it’s generally suitable for travelers in moderate physical condition. Always check with your guide about specific needs.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the schedule slightly based on your interests and pace, within the offered stops.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler mornings or evenings.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour from Bogota offers a rare chance to experience Colombia’s colonial charm, ancient fossils, and scenic vineyards—all in a relaxed, personalized setting. It balances culture and natural wonders while giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Travelers who seek a well-rounded glimpse of Colombia’s heritage and enjoy engaging stories from knowledgeable guides will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s perfect for those who want to combine history, geology, and local flavors without the stress of independent planning.

If you’re interested in Colombia’s past—both human and prehistoric—along with the chance to sample local wines and stroll through one of Latin America’s best-preserved colonial towns, this tour could be your ideal escape. It’s a well-priced, thoughtfully curated experience that offers genuine insights and memorable moments in a beautiful setting.