• HOME
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • WORK WITH ME
  • COURSE
  • Nav Social Icons

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • WORK WITH ME
  • COURSE
  • Mobile Menu Widgets

    Connect

    Search

Bucketlist Bri

Bucketlist Bri

Adventurous Slomad Travel

  • Start Here
  • Destinations
  • Bucket List
  • Digital Nomad
  • Slow Travel
  • Van Life

A Weekend Adventure in Anolaima, Colombia

Last Updated: October 20, 2021 · Colombia, South America, Travel Blog

Share
Pin
Tweet
Share
Share
70 Shares

You probably have heard of Bogotá, Colombia, but have you ever heard of the lovely little town of Anolaima? I hadn’t either, at least not until our dear Colombian friend invited us to stay in his Finca (country home).

Anolaima is a place that may be little known, but once you visit you’re sure not to forget it. With its bustling square surrounded by small Tiendas, restaurants, bars, and more, the town of Anolaima is the epitome of Colombian countryside charm–perfect for a weekend getaway.

So that’s exactly what we did!

Our group-aka the “NOHAs” (international master’s program in humanitarian action), squeezed into “taxi-buses” and rode 70km west of Bogota for the weekend.

Two hours later, after sitting in traffic, driving along curvy mountains and over bumpy roads, we finally made it to Anolaima–the fruit capital of Colombia.

Anolaima, Colombia | Bits of Bri | Travel Blog | Travel Tales of Bri

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks so much for your support!

A little about Anolaima

As the fruit capital of Colombia, Anolaima hosts the annual “Corpus Christi” festival. Here you’ll find impressive floats and structures of fruit creations designed as religious symbols, trucks, animals, etc., all in celebration of the wealth of fruit in the region.

Here’s a fun video showing off the fruit festival and the town of Anolaima!

Whenever I see a place for the first time, my natural habit is to immediately reach for my camera. As some of us gathered groceries, the others stood outside and observed the town go about its daily routine. I resisted getting my camera bag out as we all admired a local family preparing their bar’s patio for the evening. The kids, no older than 8 years old, were helping their mom rinse, sweep, and brush away all the dust and debris. The boys soon caught on that they had onlookers, and began smiling, dancing, and poking their heads around the corners before shying away, giggling.

Before whisking away our groceries into two taxis (lots of food for 11 people!) I broke my patience and had just enough time to snap a photo or two of the town.

With 5 people sitting in the back and 2 in the front seat, we had one taxi full and ready to head to our friend’s Finca just outside the town’s outskirts.

Anolaima, Colombia | Bits of Bri | Travel Blog | Travel Tales of Bri

Arriving at the finca

It is a beautiful evening; the sun is setting, palm trees sprinkle the landscape, flowers and plants of all colors line the steps down to the country home, and everyone has a little skip in their step. We are all ready to spend the weekend away from the hustle and bustle of city life back in Bogotá. With only the sounds and smells of nature, we settled in and started the fire.

An adventure, for me, is not simply traveling to unfamiliar places or getting an adrenaline rush from doing a fun activity. It can be anything from a new culinary discovery or listening to someone’s story. And sometimes it can be many things all at once! That is precisely why this was a weekend adventure in Anolaima.

Sharing stories, experiences and jokes with friends from all parts of the world, while grilling, eating yuca (a “woody shrub” that has a delicious buttery-potato-like flavor), and secretly competing at who can spot the most shooting stars (I think Cat and I won, by the way) is what I would call an adventure.

I woke up the next morning hot which made me super happy if you can believe it. Right now in Bogotá, the weather is like a crisp autumn morning, with warm days when the sun is shining. Here in Anolaima, the climate is tropical and it’s exactly what I was hoping for. No need for fluffy socks or pullovers. I got up and could immediately put on my long-awaited summer dress.

Handmaking typical dishes

ladies cooking typical dishes in Anolaima, Colombia

With the sun already peeking over the rolling green hills around us, it was time for breakfast. Our Colombian chef taught us how to make arepa and patacone by hand. Patacones are fried (twice) plantains, and is a typical type of food from Colombia. De-li-cious!

Arepa is actually quite easy to make, once you know the technique. Just add cornflour, salt and water in a bowl and mix with your hands. Then, form baseball-sized balls in your hand and squish them flat between plastic wrap with the help of a cutting board. They are so tasty and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a snack!

Exploring the countryside

That morning we explored the dirt roads, past colorful fincas, barking dogs, and banana trees. Colombia is popular for its diverse scenery and nature; from pristine beaches to snowy mountains and arid deserts, to everything exotic in between. And to think, our short hike was only a glimpse into Colombia’s beauty!

For anyone who has ever considered traveling to Colombia, I would definitely say just GO! But if you do, make sure to get out of the big cities and explore the countryside to places like Anolaima. You won’t regret it.

Eat like a local

After our two lovely nights in the finca, we headed back to Anolaima to grab lunch at a local outdoor tent area (piqueteaderos) where you can find a popular and tasty dish known as picada. 

Picada is basically a plate full of chopped-up treats such as chorizo sausage (longaniza), pork loin (lomo de cerdo), blood sausage (morcilla), plantains, yuca, potatoes (papas criolles), arepa, and more.  With some fresh lime and a glass of refajo (beer with Colombian-style soda), we had all we needed for a perfect Colombian meal!

The place was bustling full of locals taking their Sunday lunch. The ladies cooking over the big pots made me, once again, want to take out my camera.

One of my goals while in Colombia is to get over my shyness in asking to take people’s photo. So my friend helped me get started and then I asked, “Puedo tomar una foto, por favor?” To which her answer was “Si, si,” with a smile.

Again on another kind of adventure–sharing a moment with a stranger.

Before packing into the taxi bus to head back home, we walked to the edge of the town where we were greeted with breathtaking views of lush green rolling hills in the distance.

On our way back to Bogotá, we took a short break in a town called Zipacón. Only in this little town can you find fresh-out-of-the-oven pan de maíz stuffed with cottage cheese-like deliciousness in the center. It’s the best combination of salty and cheesy, and at just 700 pesos (around .25 cents at the current exchange rate!) If you are ever traveling in the area, you MUST stop to try this local treat!

After another bumpy and breezy two hours drive, we were back home to a cloudy and chilly Bogotá. Though it always feels great to get back from a weekend adventure, I sure will miss the sunny little slice of paradise that is Anolaima.

Muchas gracias for following along on my adventures!

  • Share on Twitter Share on Twitter
  • Share on Facebook Share on Facebook
  • Share on Pinterest Share on Pinterest
  • Share via Email Share via Email

By: Bri · In: Colombia, South America, Travel Blog · Tagged: traveltales

you’ll also love

Tayrona National Natural Park, Colombia | Bits of Bri48 Hours in Tayrona National Park, Colombia
3 Days in Salento, Colombia | Bits of BriExploring Coffee Country: 3 Days in Salento, Colombia
Nova Scotia Bucket List - Bucketlist Bri20 Bucket List-Worthy Things to Do in Nova Scotia

Join the List

Stay up to date with the latest adventures and travel guides.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Anonimo says

    February 9, 2021 at 2:59 pm

    Naci en Anolaima y un 100% de los que nacemos alli nos sentimos orgullosos .

    Te quiero agradecer por tomarte tu tiempo y escribir sobre esta tierra de colores , olores , paisajes , y personas maravillosas

    Es un lugar maravilloso pero necesitaras estar mas de un fin de semana para que aprecies los rios ,los senderos , variedad gastronomica unica y puedas compartir con los locales sobre sus historias, leyendas y experiencias en ese pequeño paraiso

    Nuevamente gracias por escribir sobre Anolaima Cundinamarca

    Reply
    • Bri says

      February 9, 2021 at 10:11 pm

      Igualmente muchas gracias por tu comentario y tomar el tiempo de responder a mi blog 🙂 un día espero volver y viajar de nuevo en Colombia. Me encantó descubrir Anolaima y su magia y naturaleza! Xx

      Reply
  2. Nish says

    July 18, 2017 at 2:07 am

    Bish, you are the most talented writer, it literally brings tears to my eyes when I read everything you write….it is written with such compassion and it shows how much you see these places and opportunities for what they really are, beautiful. Including the people and animals, you meet along the way.

    Reply
    • Bri says

      July 18, 2017 at 3:42 pm

      NISH! You just brought tears to my eyes! Muchas gracias mi hermana <3 <3 <3 It means so much!

      Reply
    • Cindy Walsh says

      November 28, 2021 at 6:31 am

      I am traveling to Anoliama soon with my brother. He owns a coffee and banana farm there. I have never been to Columbia. I just retired and it is on my Bucket list! I am so happy I found your article to tell me more about the town . Thank you 💙

      Reply
      • Bri says

        November 30, 2021 at 6:59 am

        Hi Cindy! Thank you so much for reading 💛 Please enjoy Anolaima for me, it’s such a cute and endearing place! x

        Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Next Post >

Moving to Bogotá, Colombia: First Impressions

Primary Sidebar

hello!

I’m Bri, an adventurous digital nomad living abroad full-time since 2015. It is my hope to inspire you to live a life of adventure, seek out meaningful experiences, and travel slowly and mindfully!

About Me

Connect

join the list

Featured Posts

Best Travel Accessories for Backpackers - Bits of Bri

Best Travel Accessories for Backpackers

Shafer Trail, Canyonlands National Park

How to Spend 2 Epic Days in Moab Exploring Canyonlands & Arches National Parks

Punta Gallinas the Northern Most Tip of South America | Bits of Bri

Guide to Punta Gallinas — The Northernmost Point of South America

QUICK LINKS

  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • WORK WITH ME
  • COURSE

Search

Follow Our Adventures

@bucketlistbri

National Park Week has got me feelin’ a serious National Park Week has got me feelin’ a serious case of nostalgia for our 2-week Southwest USA road trip! 🏜

The NP’s we visited on this trip:

📍Arches National Park
📍Canyonlands National Park
📍Zion National Park
📍Bryce Canyon National Park
📍Grand Canyon National Park (North & South Rims)
📍Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

+ Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock State Park, & Monument Valley Navajo Park!

Head to my blog bucketlistbri.com for the full 2-week itinerary plus detailed guides & itineraries to each NP!*

*except for BCotG

.
.
.

#nationalparkweek #utahrocks #zion #bryce #southwestusa #roadtripusa #desertvibes #archesnationalpark #moab #canyonlands #roadtripamerica #grandcanyonnationalpark
"From Santa Catarina Palopó" 💜 I saw her gigg "From Santa Catarina Palopó" 💜

I saw her giggling and chatting with a friend from across the street and, despite my shyness, waltzed over to ask if I could take her photo. 

She was simply radiating sitting there; an amateur portrait photographer's dream. Except I don't even own a portrait lens and this was only the second time ever in my life that I whisked up the courage to ask for something that feels so... intimate. 

But without hesitation, she gazed into my lens and pierced my heart. It was like being drawn to a joyous light that I just couldn't resist. So I dared to ask. 

As soon as she said yes, I hurriedly clicked a few shots; rushing so as to not waste her time. After showing her portraits to her, she gave me a big nod and said softly, "de Santa Catarina Palopó" with immense pride.

I think her sweet smile & kind eyes speak for themselves... ✨ 

You can read more about the indigenous Kaqchikel Maya and the colorfully painted town of Santa Catarina Palopó, Guatemala on my blog @bucketlistbri 💜
10 years together 💛😱 It’s not our annive 10 years together 💛😱 

It’s not our anniversary (it was technically last month, depending on who you ask) and we're not even celebrating Valentine's Day today, but...

I just wanted to remind the internet that I have a pretty badass partner (& not to mention the best cat dad) who puts up with both my silly madness and my need to live around the world in pursuit of adventure. 

If I have any advice for love and long-term relationships, it's this:

Keep choosing each other;
again, and again, and again,
over everything else, no matter what you go through. 

❤️❤️❤️

Can you guess which one of us first "friend-requested" the other all those years ago? 😉

#internationalcouple #ourlove #travelcouplegoals #10yearstogether #digitalnomadcouple #adventuretogether
On every adventure, I’ve thought of you. I am On every adventure, I’ve thought of you. 

I am the granddaughter of a guiding light, a woman so lovely and gentle and spiritual and strong that she attracted to her all walks of life. 

I was the butterfly enamored by her glow. The ship lost at sea that found safety at her shores. 

On every adventure, I’ll think of you. On every adventure, you’ll be with me. 

🦋 ✨
Add this hike to your Caribbean bucket list! ☀️ 

Guadeloupe is rich in breathtaking, diverse landscapes — La Pointe des Châteaux is no exception! Magnificent rocky pillars jut out of the ocean & create a magnificent view that’s best experienced at sunrise from atop Morne Pavillon, the hill marked by the large cross on its summit.

TIPS FOR VISITING:

🚗 Like everywhere in Gwada, you'll need a rental! Parking is free.
☀️ Sunrise and sunset are around 6am and 6pm
🥾 The hike itself only takes 15-20 minutes and is easy!
🦀 Watch for wildlife and other critters (this is a protected heritage site!)
🌊 Plenty of beaches are nearby, including a nude beach and a private beach with cool wave splashing action called "La Douche" (meaning shower 🚿) 

Read more about this epic spot + other must-see places in Guadeloupe on the blog @bucketlistbri 🌴

.
.
.
#guadeloupeislands #caribbeanisland #pointedeschateaux #wanderlusttravel #caribbeanlife #caribbeanvibes #gwada #hikingtheworld #islandphotography #travelaesthetic
I'M READY FOR YA, 2022 ✌️ HERE'S WHY: ✍️ I'M READY FOR YA, 2022 ✌️ HERE'S WHY:

✍️ 2022 is going to be the year I become a published author. 

💛  It's the year I celebrate 10 years of love & adventure with my best friend. 

💻  It's the year I register my LLC and level up my business. 

🌎  It's the year I hit my bucket list of "slow living in 10 countries" as a nomad and the year I travel and discover even more destinations. 

And some folks will think (do think), "overnight success." But the reality is (as my sweet friend @redwhiteadventures reminded me), it's been about putting one foot in front of the other -- just like on a hike up a mountain (or in this case, to the cliffsides overlooking the Caribbean and Atlantic!). 

2022 is going to be the view from the top!! (Sure, I may get there, and see another summit I want to climb. But I'm so ready for the challenge(s), the journey, & the adventure!) ⛰ 

What are you excited about in 2022?! 

📍Hell's Gate / Porte d'Enfer, Guadeloupe (click the link in my bio to read about this hike!)
Follow My Adventures

Footer

On the Blog

  • Start Here
  • Destinations
  • Bucket List
  • Digital Nomad
  • Slow Travel
  • Van Life

Info

  • Work With Me
  • My Course
  • Shop
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy

adventures await x

Copyright © 2022 · Bucketlist Bri | All Rights Reserved