Background

Museo Paleontológico: A Window to the Cretaceous Period

Explore fossils from the Cretaceous period at this paleontological museum in Villa de Leyva, Colombia.

4.4

The Museo Paleontológico in Villa de Leyva displays a remarkable collection of fossils dating back 130 million years, offering a glimpse into the region's rich paleontological history. Located in a historic building, the museum showcases marine reptiles, invertebrates, and plant fossils discovered in the area.

A brief summary to Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva

  • Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby attractions, such as El Fósil museum or the Pozos Azules.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking both inside the museum and in the surrounding area.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Villa de Leyva's main square (Plaza Mayor), head north on Carrera 9 towards Arcabuco. The museum is located approximately 1 km from the square, a 15-20 minute walk. Follow the road, and you'll find the museum on your right. There are no tolls or special access fees for walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Villa de Leyva, especially around the main square. A taxi ride from the Plaza Mayor to the Museo Paleontológico will take about 5-10 minutes. The fare is typically around 6,000-8,000 COP. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva

The Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva, belonging to the Faculty of Sciences of the National University of Colombia, is a captivating museum that transports visitors back to the Cretaceous period. Founded on June 12, 1972, by Professor Gustavo Huertas González, the museum exhibits fossils discovered in the surrounding area, which was once a vast ocean. The museum's collection includes a diverse array of fossils, such as ammonites, bivalves, gastropods, marine reptiles, fish, and plants. These specimens provide invaluable insights into the ancient marine ecosystems that thrived in this region millions of years ago. The museum's exhibits aim to reconstruct the geological and natural history of the territory, promoting the preservation and awareness of this unique heritage. The Museo Paleontológico is housed in the old Casona el Molino de Osada, a centuries-old building located about 1 km from the main square on the road to Arcabuco. The museum also features an interactive paleontology garden with 87 plant species, enhancing the educational experience. The garden aims to educate visitors about local, regional, and national species, including native and endangered plants. Visiting the Museo Paleontológico offers a fascinating journey through time, revealing the ancient secrets hidden within the rocks of Villa de Leyva. It is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in paleontology, geology, and the natural history of Colombia.

Popular Experiences near Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva

Popular Hotels near Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva

Select Currency