Moniquira, located in the Boyaca Department, is a natural and gastronomic paradise often hailed as “The Sweet City of Colombia.” Its claim to fame? Being home to some of the country’s top factories producing two of Colombia’s most beloved treats: “bocadillos” (guava candy) and “panelitas” (milk fudge). The town is also graced with natural pools, wells, waterfalls, and meandering rivers.
The panelitas from ‘La Dianita Factory,’ located in Moniquira, are commonly sold in stores throughout Colombia. Similarly, it’s almost certain that you’ll find sweets from “La Dianita” at virtually every candy stall throughout Bogota’s streets. Other notable factories like “La Ricaurte,” “La Moniquireña,” “La Selección,” and “El Kaizer” add to the town’s sweet reputation.
Colombian aquiatic paradises in Moniquira, Boyaca
The name ‘Moniquirá’, meaning “bathing place” in the indigenous Chibcha language, hints at the stunning natural aquatic landscapes formed by streams and rivers like Moniquira, Pomeca, and Suarez. Thousands of tourists flock here to marvel at the majestic waters of Colombia’s mountains.
One of the must-see attractions is El Cajon, a breathtaking 37-meter waterfall located just 3 kilometers from the Moniquira-Tunja road. The waters of the La Colorada stream glide over gigantic stones before cascading into a small pool where people can swim.
Another gem is ‘El Salto del Zorro’, a 20-meter waterfall located five kilometers away via the El Ajizal road. Surrounded by lush Boyacense jungle, this spot offers a refreshing plunge into its shaded, pure waters, providing a perfect respite from the heat. Additionally, Moniquira boasts many natural springs such as ‘Pozo Azul’ or ‘La Sicha,’ where people can swim in crystal-blue waters amidst the abundant flora and fauna of the department.
What to do in Moniquira, “The Sweet City of Colombia”?
Moniquira shares borders with the towns of San Jose de Pare, Togüi, Arcabuco, Gachantiva, and Santa Sofia, as well as with the Santander Department. The city’s climate is temperate, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 28°C. With frequent warm days, the town hosts recreational centers and countryside hotels with pools, outdoor courts, and BBQ areas, such as Comfaboy, El Paraiso, or Chiminigagua.
Moniquira isn’t just about nature; it’s also an adventure seeker’s playground. Visitors can indulge in extreme sports like rock climbing, bungee jumping from the “El Alto del Grandillo” viewpoint, or quad bike rides to hidden waterfalls. After all the excitement, there’s no shortage of gastronomic delights to savor, including roast chicken, typical meat platters and soups, and ‘Cocido Boyacense’ (Boyacense Stew) featuring various regional tubers.
Every year, Bolivar and Santander, Moniquira’s main parks, along with attractions like the multifunctional Coliseum and a Collection Center, draw thousands of tourists attending renowned cultural events such as the ‘Ferias y Fiestas del Dulce y el Bocadillo’ (Sweets and Bocadillo Festival and Fairs) and the Moniquira Summer Festival.
With its rich tapestry of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights, Moniquira ‘The Sweet City of Colombia’, offers visitors a truly immersive experience in the heart of Colombia.