Things To Do
in Becerril

Becerril is a small town perched in the Cesar Department of northern Colombia, set amid rolling valleys and agricultural land. It serves as a quiet rural base with a friendly, community-focused vibe and colorful plazas. Life here blends traditional farming routines with easy access to the region’s green hills and nearby waterways.

The area offers a authentic Caribbean-influenced taste of Colombian countryside, with opportunities to explore beyond the town to nearby trails and rural communities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Bolívar, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and fresh coffee. As the sun rises, take a leisurely stroll through the streets, capturing the essence of Becerril's rich history.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the Museo Arqueológico, where you can learn about the indigenous cultures that once inhabited this region. Engage with local artisans at nearby craft shops, where you can purchase unique handmade souvenirs. Take a break at a local eatery to try the region's specialty dishes, such as sancocho or bandeja paisa.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head to one of the local parks to enjoy the sunset over the mountains. Join a community event if available, or simply relax with a book while listening to the sounds of the town coming to life. For dinner, find a cozy restaurant that offers a taste of local seafood or grilled meats.

day 2
Cultural Immersion in Local Communities
morning
:

Begin your morning by visiting nearby indigenous communities to understand their customs and traditions firsthand. Participate in a traditional cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare authentic Colombian dishes using local ingredients. Engage in storytelling sessions with community elders to gain insights into their rich heritage.

afternoon
:

After lunch with the community, join a guided tour of their farms and learn about sustainable agricultural practices. Participate in hands-on activities like coffee picking or fruit harvesting, connecting with the land and its people. Enjoy a refreshing drink made from locally sourced fruits as you bond with your hosts.

evening
:

Return to Becerril and unwind with a peaceful evening walk through the town's lively streets. Stop by a local plaza where musicians often perform, allowing you to soak in the sounds of Colombian folk music. Savor dinner at a local eatery, sampling homemade desserts like tres leches cake.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
Coffee/tea$0.75-2
🚌One-way local transport$0.25-1
🏠Apartment rent (1 month, in town)$250-500
🌐Internet monthly$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quaint, small-town charm with authentic Caribbean-Colombian feel
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
  • Low costs for food, lodging, and local experiences
  • Good base for exploring nearby nature and rural landscapes
  • Limited nightlife and fewer international-style amenities
  • Fewer direct flight options; may require travel to larger hubs
  • Infrastructure and services less developed than big cities
  • Language barriers may be challenging for first-time travelers
  • "¡Hola!" - Hello
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Estoy perdido/a." - I am lost.
  • "Una agua por favor." - One water, please.

Places to Visit in Becerril

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Principal and Iglesia Central

The central square offers colorful facades, daily life, and a sense of place, with the church as a picturesque focal point, especially during golden hour.

Hillside Overlook near Becerril

A gentle climb or viewpoint along the surrounding hills provides sweeping views of valleys and patchwork farmlands.

Riverside and Farmland Edges

Photograph rural waterfronts and lines of crops—perfect for wide-angle landscape shots and the contrast of water, sky, and green fields.

Local Markets at Dawn

Early-morning market scenes capture vendors, fresh produce, and the vibrant textures of daily life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Becerril

Becerril’s cuisine reflects the Caribbean-influenced Cesar region with hearty soups, corn-based foods, plantains, fresh fruit, and simple grilled proteins. Expect flavorful, home-style cooking that emphasizes everyday ingredients and family recipes.

Becerril Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepa de huevo

A crispy corn cake stuffed with a fried egg, a beloved street-food classic found in markets and snack stalls.

Must-Try!

Carimañolas

Yuca frita dumplings usually filled with meat and served as a staple snack.

Sancocho

Hearty meat and root-vegetable stew, commonly enjoyed as a communal meal in homes and small eateries.

Mote de queso

A creamy, cheese-and-granules soup common in Colombia’s Caribbean region, often enjoyed with bread or arepa.

Patacones con salsa

Fried plantain slices served with a tangy salsa or guacamole, a frequent accompaniment to meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Becerril

Local market area where you can sample fresh fruit, arepas, empanadas, carimañolas, and other street foods, plus interact with vendors for seasonal produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a tropical Caribbean-influenced climate: hot and humid year-round with distinct wet and dry periods. Daytime temperatures typically range in the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (80s–90s Fahrenheit); nights are cooler but remain warm. Rain is most common during the rainy season, especially in the afternoons and evenings, while the dry season brings clearer skies and more predictable sunny days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and courtesy

A friendly greeting with 'Buenos días/tardes' is appreciated; use formal 'usted' in initial interactions. Asking before taking photos of people is respectful.

Dress and demeanor

Smart casual is appropriate for most venues; modest dress is customary in religious sites and traditional areas.

Bargaining and markets

Bargaining is common in markets; do so politely and with a smile.

Safety Guide

Safety

In Becerril, practice common travel safety: keep valuables secure, use official taxis, and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night in less-populated areas. Use reputable providers for tours and hikes, and stay informed about any local advisories. Travel with basic health supplies, stay hydrated, and have local emergency numbers on hand.

Tipping in Becerril

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated for good service, especially in restaurants or guided experiences. A small 5-10% tip is common in nicer spots; rounding up taxi fares or modest round-ups are typical in casual venues.

Payment Methods

Cash (Colombian peso) is widely used in markets and small eateries. Some restaurants and larger shops accept cards; ATMs are more common in larger towns nearby. Always have small bills for market purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season

Expect sunnier days with lower humidity and less rainfall, making outdoor activities and photography more comfortable. Some trails can be dusty; carry water and sun protection.

Rainy Season

Afternoons may bring brief showers and higher humidity. Trails stay lush, but paths can be slippery; plan flexible routes and bring a light rain jacket.

Nightlife Guide

Becerril at Night

Becerril’s nightlife is low-key and community-centered. Expect small bars and plazas with local music, especially on weekends, offering a relaxed atmosphere rather than a party scene. You’ll often find social gathering around the town square after sunset, with conversations and acoustic tunes from local musicians.

Hiking in Becerril

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Montaña Outlook

A forested hill area offering panoramic views over Becerril and the surrounding valleys; suitable for a half-day hike.

Cascadas y Senderos de la Ribera

Riverine trails leading to small waterfalls and natural swimming pools, ideal for a nature-filled half- or full-day excursion.

Airports

How to reach Becerril by plane.

Valledupar Airport (VUP)

Closest airport serving Becerril, with domestic connections and short drives to town. Ground transport options are available from the terminal.

Simón Bolívar International Airport (Santa Marta) – SMR

A larger international gateway; longer drive but provides more flight options for connections beyond Colombia.

Rafael Núñez International Airport (Cartagena) – CTG

Another major gateway in the region; farther by road but useful for longer trips or connections through major hubs.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable within the town center, with compact streets and the Plaza as a natural meeting point. Sidewalks can be uneven, so shoes with grip are helpful. For broader exploration, private transport or local buses are more practical to reach surrounding rural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

General population

A mix of Mestizo and Afro-Colombian communities with strong agricultural roots; seasonal workers and families form the steady rhythm of daily life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; local teams and informal matches are common in plazas and parks.

Basketball

Often played in community courts and schools; a regular casual pastime for residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light in town, with occasional congestion near the market or central plazas. Public transport includes local buses and informal vans; longer trips to nearby towns may involve shared taxis or private rides. Rural roads can be uneven and weather-dependent, so plan extra time for excursions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Becerril.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Clearly communicate preference; most places can adapt local dishes by substituting meat with beans, eggs, cheese, or extra veggies. Look for options like fried plantains, rice with beans, salads, and soups without meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare options in Becerril include small local clinics and rural health posts. For more comprehensive services, you’ll likely travel to Valledupar or other larger towns with hospitals and specialists. Carry basic medications and travel insurance, and know the emergency contact numbers for the area.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide