This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Sopo.
Sopo is a town in the central Cundinamarca department of Colombia. It is about one hour from Bogota and eight hours from Medellin by bus, or one hour by air (and then you need to take a bus). Sopo is a farming and dairy community in Colombia, and it is a stop on the way from central Colombia to Venezuela.
There are very few hostels in Sopo. Those that are there cater to the backpacker that is only transiting through rather than staying long term. In general, expect hostels in Sopo to be small and cozy, in older buildings, and with friendly staff. You might want to brush up on your Spanish before going, as most hostel staff here won’t speak fluent English.
Sopo was first inhabited by Colombia indigenous groups and later the Muisca tribs before the arrival of the Spanish in the mid-16th century. The Spanish built colonial style buildings, some of which survive today. Don’t miss the centre of town. Because Sopo was founded by Spanish colonials, there are a few historic buildings worth visiting. The church - Iglesia del Divino Salvador- is one such building. It is a great example of Spanish Colonial architecture and has a few icons and religious images inside. The Sopo Archangels are a collection of famous oil paintings that date to the mid-17th century. The depict the twelve archangels, along with a description (in Spanish) of who they are. There is no definitive conclusion as to who they are painted by, but they are still a highlight in Sopo.
Finally, be sure to visit the Parque Ecologico Pionono, which is just west of town and very accessible. There’s plenty of hiking in the hills here with panoramic views back across the valley. The Aves Internacionales Colombia is a private nature reserve with a number of indigenous bird species. The guides are local scientists, and most speak only Spanish. Your hostel can help you arrange a tour at the nature reserve or give you directions to the local hiking trails.
Written by local enthusiast for Sopo hostels
Jakob Lombardi
