Things To Do
in Apartadó
Apartadó is a dynamic port city in the Urabá region of Colombia, perched on the Gulf of Urabá near the Caribbean coast. It acts as a commercial hub for banana exports and serves as a gateway to rich mangrove ecosystems and rural communities. The city blends urban markets, waterfront scenery, and easy access to nature, making it a base for exploring the wider Urabá coastline.
Expect a warm, tropical climate with humid days and lively street life that reflects the region's resilience and hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Apartadó, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and fresh local produce from nearby vendors. Absorb the rich culture and history as you stroll through the charming streets, admiring the colorful facades of colonial buildings. Don't forget to stop by the local bakery for a traditional arepa to fuel your exploration.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, continue your historical exploration by visiting the Museo de Apartadó, where you can learn about the region's fascinating past. Engage with the exhibits that showcase the indigenous cultures and the impact of coffee production on the local economy. Spend some time interacting with local artisans who demonstrate traditional crafts in the artisan market.
As evening falls, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Antioquian cuisine, where you can try bandeja paisa. After your meal, take a walk through the buzzing streets, where live music often fills the air, leading you to local bars and cafés. Enjoy a refreshing beverage while soaking in the lively ambiance as the night unfolds.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to a nearby coffee farm, where you’ll be welcomed with a steaming cup of the finest local brew. Participate in a guided tour that explains the coffee-growing process, from seed to cup, and discover the unique flavors of Colombian coffee. Engage in hands-on activities like picking coffee cherries and learning how to roast them.
After your immersive coffee experience, enjoy a traditional lunch on the farm featuring locally sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon learning about sustainable farming practices and the importance of coffee to the region's economy. Take some time for photographs, capturing the stunning landscapes that surround the farm.
Return to Apartadó in the evening and unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s enlightening experiences. Choose a cozy local restaurant for dinner and try dishes that complement your coffee knowledge, such as grilled meats and fresh salads. End the night with a stroll around town, possibly catching a live music performance in a nearby plaza.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧃1.5L bottle of water | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi within city | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed tropical vibe
- Gateway to mangrove ecosystems and Gulf of Urabá
- Limited large-scale nightlife
- Heat and humidity can be intense year-round
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "No entiendo" - I don't understand
- "¿Puede recomendarme un restaurante cercano?" - Could you recommend a nearby restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido" - I'm lost
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Apartadó
Visit one of these nice places.
A leafy central square with life from the market nearby, great for candid street photography.
Waterfront promenade with fishing boats, palm trees, and golden hour light.
Colorful market scenes and early-morning vendors framed by city life.
Scenic river edges with mangroves and birds, ideal for wide-angle nature shots.
Food in Apartadó
Apartadó Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried river or sea fish served with patacones or rice, often with a coconut sauce and lime.
Must-Try!
Coconut rice typically served with fish or shrimp; a fragrant, essential coastal side.
Hearty fish soup with root vegetables and corn, commonly found in local eateries.
Fried green plantains served with a tomato-onion sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, seafood, meat, and prepared foods; ideal for trying daily eats and buying ingredients.
Look for empanadas, arepas, buñuelos, and fried fish along main avenues in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or brief kiss on the cheek is common among friends; greet strangers politely with a 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'.
Dress casually but modestly, especially in markets and religious sites; wear breathable clothing due to heat and humidity.
Ask before photographing people or private homes; use respectful language and show appreciation for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Apartadó
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. For taxi drivers or tour guides, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated.
Cash (Colombian pesos) and cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; some markets are cash-only. ATMs are common in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect drier, sunnier days with lower rainfall; great for outdoor exploration and coastal trips, though humidity remains high.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; carry rain gear, waterproof footwear, and be prepared for damp trails and occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
Apartadó at Night
Hiking in Apartadó
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat-to-gentle trails along mangrove channels with birdwatching opportunities.
Short hikes with viewpoints over the coast and rivers.
Airports
How to reach Apartadó by plane.
Serves the Urabá region with domestic flights to Medellín and Bogotá; accessible by taxi or bus from the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Afro-Colombian presence in the Urabá region with distinct cultural practices and music.
People working in agriculture, fishing, and small-scale crafts contribute to a diverse urban culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; you’ll see weekend games and local leagues throughout the city.
Recreational fishing in coastal waters and rivers is common among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apartadó.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most places; look for veggie stews, salads, plantain-based dishes, and fruit bowls; ask for modifications to avoid fish sauces.