Things To Do
in Arauquita
Arauquita is a small border town in Colombia's Arauca department, perched along the Orinoco basin near Venezuela. It blends Llanero plains with river life, vibrant markets, and a mix of cultural influences from Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities. Visitors encounter warm hospitality, colorful street life, and straightforward access to wetlands and rural scenery.
The town serves as a practical base for exploring the wider Orinoco region, offering river trips, wildlife viewing, and cultural encounters.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Arauquita's historic center, where colonial architecture meets modern life. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Colombian arepas and freshly brewed coffee. As the sun rises, take in the sights of the bustling market square, where vendors sell everything from fruits to handmade crafts.
Spend the afternoon visiting the local museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region, including indigenous artifacts and photographs. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, indulging in regional specialties like bandeja paisa or sancocho. As you wander, take time to speak with locals, learning about their traditions and lifestyle.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can witness the beautiful colors reflecting off the water. Find a cozy spot at an outdoor eatery to savor local dishes while listening to traditional music. End your evening by mingling with friendly locals in the plaza, where community events often take place, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in the nearby wetlands, where you can observe diverse bird species and unique flora. Bring your binoculars to spot the colorful birds that inhabit this rich ecosystem while enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings. After exploring, enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the stunning scenery, surrounded by lush greenery.
In the afternoon, join a local ecotourism group for a boat ride on the Arauca River, where you can learn about the region's wildlife and natural habitats. Keep an eye out for river dolphins and other aquatic creatures as you glide through the beautiful waters. Stop for lunch at a riverside restaurant, feasting on fresh fish caught from the river itself.
As dusk approaches, take a moment to reflect on the day's adventures while watching the sunset over the water, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Return to Arauquita for dinner, where you can enjoy a traditional dish accompanied by a refreshing local beverage. Cap off the night with a stroll through the town, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee in local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs or groceries | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming communities and affordable travel
- Access to riverine and Llanos landscapes
- Rich cultural influences from Indigenous and Afro-Colombian traditions
- Relatively simple to navigate a small border town
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few organized activities
- Border-zone safety considerations; services can be basic
- Internet and English-speaking assistance may be limited
- Occasional transport delays and rough road conditions
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Necesito un taxi" - I need a taxi
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Arauquita
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the wide river with palm savannas creating a dramatic horizon.
Morning scenes of vendors, fresh produce, and the social rhythm of daily commerce.
A vantage point for river traffic, boats, and distant Llanos landscape.
Open fields, low hills, and cattle rotaries offer classic frontera photography.
Food in Arauquita
Arauquita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried river fish seasoned with local herbs, commonly found at market stalls and riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Hearty platter of beef, rice, plantains, beans, and sometimes eggs; a staple of Llanos cooking.
Cornmeal flatbread stuffed or topped with local cheese; a ubiquitous companion in meals.
Flattened fried plantains with a tomato-onion sauce; a popular side dish and street-food option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful morning market where locals buy produce, fish, meat, and prepared snacks; great for people-watching and tasting fresh offerings.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering quick bites like fried fish, arepas, and tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting with a handshake or kiss on the cheek in familiar circles; address elders with señor/señora and use formal tone in initial interactions.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; show respect in sensitive cultural settings.
Casual, modest clothing is typical; shoulders and knees covered in more formal spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Arauquita
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a tip of about 5–10% is appreciated if service is good; for street stalls and casual service, rounding up is common.
Cash in COP is widely used; credit/debit cards are accepted in some shops and larger establishments. ATMs are available in town; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny with lower river levels. Great for outdoor activities and photography, but carry water and sunscreen; heed local fire restrictions in dry periods.
Afternoon downpours are common; trails can be muddy and river levels rise. Pack a lightweight rain shell and waterproof bags; plan indoor alternatives for heavy rain days.
Arauquita at Night
Hiking in Arauquita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the riverbank with opportunities for birding and river views.
Open grassland trails near the town offering classic Llanos landscapes and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Arauquita by plane.
Small, infrequent flights serving regional destinations; schedules vary. Best to confirm in advance and plan longer travel times if connecting elsewhere.
The primary international gateway of Colombia. From Bogotá, you can connect to domestic routes to Arauca region towns or nearby cities, then continue by road or smaller aircraft.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix typical of border and Llanos regions, contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Several Indigenous communities contribute to local music, weaving, and traditional practices.
A dynamic community with cross-border ties and a mix of urban and rural residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local matches and informal play common in parks and streets.
River fishing is a traditional activity along the Arauca and surrounding waterways, offering relaxed recreation and local fish cuisine.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games often happen in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arauquita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes center on corn, cassava, beans, plantains, and rice; some preparations may use meat stock. Look for 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano' options, and ask for vegetable substitutions when needed.