Things To Do
in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Colombia is a small Andean town in Cauca known for its warm community and scenic green landscapes. Nestled in the highlands, it blends Indigenous and Afro-Colombian influences with a laid-back rural vibe. Visitors are drawn to its markets, river views, and authentic regional cuisine.
The area serves as a quiet gateway to nearby nature reserves and cultural experiences away from the bustle of bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Plaza de Bolívar, where the vibrant atmosphere is filled with local vendors and the scent of fresh coffee. Wander through the cobblestone streets, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the city. Stop by a local café for a traditional breakfast of arepas and fresh fruit juice.
In the afternoon, head to the Gold Museum to marvel at the intricate gold artifacts that reflect Colombia's rich cultural history. Afterward, stroll through La Candelaria, the historic district, where you'll encounter street performers and artisan shops. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes such as bandeja paisa or sancocho.
As the sun sets, make your way to a rooftop bar overlooking the city for stunning views of the skyline. Savor a cocktail made with local ingredients while listening to the sounds of live Colombian music. For dinner, indulge in a feast of grilled meats at a traditional parrilla, immersing yourself in the local culinary scene.
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Monserrate, taking the funicular up to enjoy breathtaking views of Bogotá. After soaking in the panoramic sights, explore the nearby Sanctuary of Monserrate, a beautiful church that dates back to the 17th century. Enjoy a breakfast of warm arepas and hot chocolate from a local vendor before descending.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Botero Museum, where you can admire the unique works of Fernando Botero alongside pieces from renowned international artists. Afterward, visit the Gold Museum, one of the most important in the world, showcasing the pre-Hispanic goldsmithing techniques that have shaped Colombia's history. Take a break at a nearby café for delicious Colombian coffee and pastries.
As dusk falls, stroll through the lively streets of La Candelaria, where street art and local performances come alive. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in traditional Colombian cuisine, such as ajiaco or lechona. Conclude your evening with a cultural performance at a local theater, experiencing the vibrant music and dance that define Colombia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $20-60 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entrance | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm pace of life and warm people
- Cost-effective travel with rich culture and nature nearby
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Rural infrastructure can be less reliable in remote areas
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Buenos Aires
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with the backdrop of a colonial-style church and morning light.
Peaceful scenes of the river with golden hour reflections.
Vibrant wall art and adobe textures offer rich photo opportunities.
Panoramic overlooks of the valley and surrounding greenery.
Food in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hearty meat or fish stew with yuca, plantain, corn, and herbs; typically served with rice.
Must-Try!
Corn dough filled with pork or chicken, vegetables, wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed.
Sweet corn arepa often served with cheese or hogao.
Grilled trout from local rivers, seasoned with herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and regional snacks.
Arepas, empanadas, and fresh fruit juices—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and maintain polite conversation; modest dress is appreciated in religious sites.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in close-up portraits or rural communities.
Dress neatly in public spaces and be mindful of noise levels in the evenings, particularly around religious or cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in Buenos Aires
Ensure a smooth experience
In nice restaurants, a 10-15% tip is appreciated if service is not included; in casual places, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted, credit/debit cards are common in shops and restaurants, and ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Most days are sunny with pleasant daytime warmth and cooler evenings; trails are drier and easier to navigate.
Frequent showers, lush green landscapes, and higher humidity; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Buenos Aires at Night
Hiking in Buenos Aires
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail network around Puracé volcano with alpine landscapes, forests, and hot springs; moderate to challenging hikes.
Scenic river canyon hikes offering viewpoints, birdwatching, and lush riverbank scenery.
Airports
How to reach Buenos Aires by plane.
Major regional hub; typically the easiest international gateway for travel to the Cauca region.
Regional option with connections to major Colombian cities; may require longer ground travel to Buenos Aires.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo and Afro-Colombian residents with diverse cultural expressions and traditions.
Presence of Indigenous groups such as Nasa (Paez) and Misak in the broader Cauca region, contributing unique crafts and customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and informal games are common in parks and schools.
Played in community centers and school courts; often accompanied by street-style gatherings.
Popular in schools and beach-like riverfront areas during dry season.
Rides through valleys and hills are common among locals and visiting cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buenos Aires.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many arepas, soups, and plantain-based dishes can be made vegetarian; ask for vegetable-based options or substitutions when ordering.