Drawn Memories in Zapatoca, Colombia

Why I love drawing when I travel

Today, I’m sharing my little adventure drawing in the charming town of Zapatoca.

Last week we decided to do a little day trip to a very remote but beautiful town. Normally, you will see me with my camera taking hundreds of pictures. The motifs? Architecture, stones, nature, people, dogs (especially dogs), food, and anything that seems interesting to me.

But drawing it’s something different. It forces you to slow down and seriously observe what you are looking at. What are the characteristics of that rock? the green of that plant? Does it have more blue or more yellow? Those things can rarely be appreciated with a fast shutter speed.

Here are some of the “drawn memories” as I like to call them and a couple of interesting facts about this amazing town, if you ever want to visit.

When I visited Zapatoca, I was struck by how effortlessly it blends the past with the present. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle, immerse yourself in history, and truly appreciate the beauty of simpler times.

It’s a tiny town hidden in the Santander department of Colombia. Just imagine a dot on the map somewhere between Bucaramanga (try to pronounce this fast) and the middle of nowhere. The road is bumpy and a big chunk has no concrete. The zig-zag path leads you down to the Sogamoso river and up to the town. In the middle of the road there is a bridge where you can step out of the car, admire the flowing waters and imposing mountains that scream, “Please draw me!”

Once in town, the peaceful vibe welcomes you. I spent hours sketching the beautiful church in the main square, the cobblestone streets, and the lush landscapes. And let’s not forget the coffee breaks! Sitting in a café, sipping Colombian coffee, and sketching the world as it goes by—life doesn’t get much better than that.

Now some other interesting things:

1. Climate Paradise: The weather here is like that perfect day you always dream about. Not too hot, not too cold—just right! It’s like Goldilocks’ dream come true. It’s like Zapatoca is permanently stuck on “pleasant.” Temperatures here typically hover between 18°C to 24°C (that’s 64°F to 75°F for my American friends). The weather is so consistent that you’ll rarely need more than a light jacket, even in the so-called “cooler” months. This kind of weather plus the rich and fertile soil is fantastic for agriculture. There is a wide variety of crops: The coffee beans produced here are rich and aromatic, contributing to Colombia’s reputation for some of the best coffee in the world. Tomatoes, bell peppers, lettuce, and carrots for the salads. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint. Not exactly food but flowers! Roses, orchids, and many other varieties bloom beautifully in Zapatoca’s mild climate.

1. Old School Charm: This town is like a time machine. Walking through its streets, you feel like you’ve stepped back into the 19th century. The colonial buildings are so picturesque, that they practically beg you to take out your sketchbook: whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, and wooden balconies decorated with vibrant flowers create a picturesque scene that’s perfect for any artist. Each building tells a story of a time when things were simpler and life moved a bit slower. Walking on these uneven stones, you can almost hear the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages from centuries ago. Just watch your step and take your time—these streets are meant to be savored, not rushed. One of the standout landmarks is the beautiful Church of San Joaquín. Built in the 19th century, this stunning church dominates the main square with its classic colonial style and intricate details. Inside, you’ll find a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.
2. Cueva del Nitro: This cave is one of Zapatoca’s hidden gems. It’s full of history and a bit of a spooky vibe. It’s a natural limestone cave with a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times. The cave gets its name from the high levels of nitrate found inside, which has been mined in the past. The cave was used by indigenous peoples long before the Spanish arrived in Colombia. Later, during colonial times, it became a site for mining nitrate, which was an important resource for making gunpowder. Imagine exploring a place that was once a bustling hub of activity centuries ago! : Inside the cave, you’ll find stunning rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites that look like something out of a fantasy movie. The play of light and shadow creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere, perfect for getting those creative juices flowing. If you’re a fan of spelunking (that’s cave exploring for those who don’t speak adventurer), Cueva del Nitro offers a bit of a thrill. The cave isn’t overly commercialized, so you get a more raw and authentic experience. Just make sure you have a guide, because getting lost in a cave is not as fun as it sounds in the movies. Like any good cave, Cueva del Nitro has its share of legends and ghost stories. Local folklore says that the cave is haunted by the spirits of miners who once worked there. It’s the perfect backdrop for a spooky sketch or two if you’re into that kind of thing.
3. Friendly Folks and rich traditions: The people here are super friendly. They will chat with you, tell you stories, and maybe even pose for a quick portrait if you ask nicely. Forget about the chain stores and flashy tourist traps. In Zapatoca, you’ll find quaint local shops, family-owned cafes, and traditional markets. Whether you’re buying fresh produce or handmade crafts, the experience feels personal and authentic. It’s like taking a step back to a time when shopping was an opportunity to connect with your neighbors. Their cultural heritage is also prosperous and can be appreciated in many festivals and events, which often showcase local music, dance, and crafts. The annual “Festival de la Guabina y el Tiple” celebrates traditional Andean music and brings the whole town together in joyous celebration.

So, if you’re looking for a place that’s off the beaten path, where you can relax, soak in the beauty, and maybe draw a few masterpieces (or at least some decent doodles), Zapatoca is calling your name. Just be warned: you might fall in love with this place and never want to leave. And your sketchbook? It will be bursting with memories.

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My Week on Senses

What have I been up to this week? A description of what my senses have felt!

👂Have you meet Blue Turtle yet? Dorian is an artist that creates this amazing calming music paired with illustrations of a fantasy world set in a fictional Bronze Age/Antiquity with Magic and Monsters through the eyes of the character Ithyä, a young traveler and mage.

👀 Some of the animations of Blue Turtle.

👅Eating Colombian Obleas: a wafer sandwich made with dulce de leche, coconut, and blackberry syrup. The fillings are endless as they are delicious. One of the most famous ones are the Obleas de Floridablanca. If you ever visit Bucaramanga, this is a must!

👐 Pencils, pencils and more pencils! I am illustration my book!!! Finally : D

👃 A perfume recipe from the 17th century made out of honey, 100% natural.

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