You don't have to venture into a very remote corner of this region to experience all the magic of llanera culture. A short distance from Bogotá, the dynamic city of Villavicencio awaits to show you the most interesting aspects of these plains.
Villavo, as it is affectionately called locally, is located where the eastern Andes fade and become the endless plains of the department of Meta. This landscape is far from the mountainous image normally associated with Colombia.
Here culture is closely tied to rural life on the extensive haciendas that stretch eastward between this municipality and the mighty Orinoco River. Typical cultural expressions, whether a llanera music band made up of harp, cuatro, tiple and maracas, or dancers neatly dressed for the joropo, are common in Villavicencio and will convey the region's essence.
Gastronomy deserves a chapter of its own. Villavo has some of the best restaurants in the llanos, where you can discover regional flavors famed throughout the country for their characteristic smoked preparations.
Attractions and experiences
International Joropo Tournament
The joropo,the traditional dance of the plains,is performed in both Colombia and Venezuela,and at this fantastic multi-day event the best dancers from all across the Orinoquía gather. In the main event,thousands of couples perform in the joropódromo to spin and stamp to the rhythm of llanera melodies.
Event, Dance, Music
World Coleo Meeting
At this prestigious rodeo you will come into contact with the world of rural plains sports. Coleo consists of surrounding bulls and grabbing them by the tail to topple them,an activity carried out by skilled riders. The event also includes demonstrations of other equestrian arts and concerts of traditional music.
Event
La Piedra del Amor Viewpoint
If you head to this western panoramic point of the city you will enjoy one of the best views of it and the surrounding region,stroll among an eclectic selection of sculptures and try regional dishes at the restaurants there. This viewpoint is an interesting challenge for cyclists.The climb is tough,but after resting a bit at the top,the return journey is very pleasant.
Alto de Menegua
Literally located at the geographic heart of the country,this hill (also called Ombligo or Medio de Colombia) offers privileged views of the savannas spreading in all directions. A tall obelisk marks the exact point where the territory has its center and it is the mandatory photo stop for any geography enthusiast.
Practical details
Accommodation
In downtown Villavicencio there are excellent hotels for all budgets. On the outskirts,especially along the routes to Puerto López and Acacias,you will find rural lodgings on large properties.
Getting there
Villavicencio has direct flights to Bogotá and independent air services connecting multiple destinations across the Amazonía-Orinoquía colombiana.
Near Villavicencio
It's no wonder this municipality is called "La puerta del llano":roads lead from here to all parts of the Orinoquía. Among the most notable attractions you can visit from Villavicencio are the Río Güejar canyon and the northern sector of Serranía de la Macarena National Park.
