How to Get to Villa de Leyva (and to El Limonar) from Bogotá
Bus and driving directions to our countryside guest house in Boyacá
Villa de Leyva sits about 165–170 km from Bogotá, roughly a 3-hour journey by road. Whether you're planning a longer stay or turning a day trip into a relaxed weekend, there are two main ways to get here: the comfortable, inexpensive intercity bus, or driving yourself for the freedom to stop along the way. Below you'll find both routes step by step, plus how to cover the last stretch to El Limonar Guest House, our private two-bedroom countryside house just 5–10 minutes from the Plaza Mayor.
Bogotá to Villa de Leyva by Bus
Buses to Villa de Leyva depart from Bogotá's Terminal Norte and Terminal Salitre. If you're staying in the north of the city, Terminal Norte is usually the more convenient starting point; from the center or west, Terminal Salitre is closer.
The bus ride takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic leaving Bogotá and on whether the service is direct or stops in Tunja. The fare is approximately COP 40,000–45,000 each way.
Buses arrive at the Villa de Leyva bus terminal, a few blocks from the Plaza Mayor. From there it's an easy taxi or mototaxi ride to El Limonar — more on that below. On weekends we recommend buying your return ticket in advance, as demand runs high.
Bogotá to Villa de Leyva by Car
Driving from Bogotá takes around 3 hours. The general route is simple: leave the city on the Autopista Norte and follow the main highway toward Tunja. Before reaching Tunja you'll see the signposted turnoff for Villa de Leyva; from there a scenic mountain road takes you straight into town.
The road is paved and in good condition for most of the way, with some winding stretches on the descent into the Villa de Leyva valley. There are tolls along the route, so carry cash or an electronic payment method. Leaving Bogotá early in the morning helps you beat the heavy traffic on the Autopista Norte.
One advantage of driving is being able to stop in villages along the way, such as Ráquira or Sáchica, and to explore the countryside around Villa de Leyva at your own pace during your stay.
From the Terminal (or the Plaza) to El Limonar
El Limonar is in the countryside just outside the historic center, only 5–10 minutes from the Plaza Mayor. From the Villa de Leyva terminal you can take a taxi or a mototaxi, which are usually waiting when buses arrive; it's a short, easy ride.
Once your booking is confirmed, we'll send you detailed directions for the final stretch along with the exact map pin, so you arrive without any trouble whether by taxi or in your own car.
Practical Tips for the Trip
Book ahead for long holiday weekends. Villa de Leyva is one of the favorite getaways for people from Bogotá, and on Colombian holiday weekends (puentes) the town fills up fast — both buses and accommodation sell out early.
Pack layers. Boyacá's climate is mild during the day and cool at night, so a light jacket is always a good idea.
If you're driving, the house has free parking on the premises, so you can leave your car safely for the whole stay.
Once you've settled in, you'll enjoy a quiet house with mountain views, a garden, and solar power covering most of the electricity and hot water.
Ready for Your Trip to Villa de Leyva?
Now that you know how to get here, all that's left is to secure your stay. Book the entire El Limonar house and wake up to fresh country air and views of the Boyacá mountains.