Things To Do
in Candelaria
Candelaria is a small town located in the Valle del Cauca department of Colombia. It is known for its picturesque colonial architecture, including the historic Iglesia de San Antonio church. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Candelaria also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music and dance festivals celebrated throughout the year.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Bolívar, where you can enjoy the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Grab a breakfast arepa from a local street vendor for an authentic taste of Colombia.
Explore the Gold Museum to see impressive pre-Columbian artifacts that tell the story of the indigenous cultures. Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets and admire the colorful colonial buildings.
Visit a local restaurant for dinner, trying traditional dishes like bandeja paisa. Afterward, enjoy some live music at a nearby bar to cap off your day.
Visit the Botero Museum to admire the unique works of Fernando Botero alongside other Colombian art. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe as you contemplate the art.
Head to Monserrate for stunning views of Bogotá, accessible by funicular or hike. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the top while taking in the panoramic vistas.
Take a stroll through La Candelaria's vibrant streets, stopping at shops for souvenirs. Dine at a cozy local eatery specializing in Colombian cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops.
- Beautiful architecture and historic buildings.
- Proximity to other attractions in Bogotá.
- Community events and festivals that foster social interaction.
- Potential for high crime rates in certain areas.
- Traffic congestion and noise in busy areas.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Economic disparities that could affect local services.
- Health and sanitation concerns in some neighborhoods.
Best Activities in Candelaria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience stunning views of the Candelaria landscape while exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the reserve.
Enjoy birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and hiking along the park's scenic trails and waterfalls.
Explore the town and its surroundings on a cycling tour, taking in the natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Candelaria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Candelaria
Visit one of these nice places.
This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of Candelaria and the surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
This historic square is a picturesque location with colorful colonial buildings and a bustling atmosphere, providing ample opportunities for capturing the essence of Candelaria.
Food in Candelaria
Candelaria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with three types of potatoes, chicken, corn, and a herb called guascas. It's often served with rice, avocado, and capers. A must-try dish that can be found at La Puerta Falsa, a famous spot in the heart of Candelaria.
Must-Try!
A generous platter featuring grilled steak, chorizo, chicharrón, rice, red beans, avocado, plantain, and a fried egg. El Abasto is a popular restaurant where visitors can savor this iconic dish.
A beloved Colombian snack consisting of a pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and aromatic spices, then deep-fried until crispy. Try them at Empanadas La Soledad, known for their delicious variety of fillings.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Candelaria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and most vibrant food markets in Candelaria, showcasing an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample authentic street food like arepas, tamales, and exotic tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Candelaria, Colombia, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with formal titles and using polite language when interacting with them.
Being punctual is highly valued in Candelaria, so it is important to arrive on time for meetings, social gatherings, and other appointments.
Demonstrating politeness through greetings, saying 'please' and 'thank you', and showing consideration for others is a key part of respectful behavior in Candelaria, Colombia.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Candelaria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Candelaria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Candelaria, Colombia, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants and cafes if a service charge is not included.
Payment in Candelaria, Colombia is mostly done in cash, especially for small transactions. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments and tourist areas. It is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Candelaria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather and clear skies
Expect heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes
Candelaria at Night
Hiking in Candelaria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This national park features stunning landscapes, including moorlands and lakes. It's a great spot for hiking with various trails that offer unique ecological experiences.
Located a bit further but accessible, this park is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse flora and fauna, with numerous hiking trails.
A beautiful waterfall located a few kilometers from Candelaria, it offers a scenic hike through lush vegetation leading to the waterfall.
This trail provides a moderately challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and opportunities to see local wildlife.
A natural reserve that offers a variety of trails suitable for hiking, with views of unique ecosystems and biodiversity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Candelaria through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Candelaria by plane.
The main international airport serving Bogotá, Colombia, located approximately 134 kilometers from Candelaria.
An international airport located in Rionegro, Antioquia, around 90 kilometers from Candelaria.
An international airport located in Santa Marta, approximately 250 kilometers from Candelaria.
Also known as Rafael Núñez International Airport, located in Cartagena, approximately 310 kilometers from Candelaria.
An international airport serving Cali, Colombia, situated approximately 125 kilometers from Candelaria.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, a mix of Indigenous and European descent.
Various Indigenous groups native to the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Communities of African descent, with a unique cultural identity and history.
Individuals of European descent, often involved in different economic sectors.
Small groups including immigrants and other minorities.
The Soul of Candelaria
Discover the essence of Candelaria through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Candelaria, attracting many fans and players of all ages. Local teams participate in various leagues and tournaments, showcasing talent and passion for the game.
Basketball is a widely played sport in Candelaria, with many schools and community courts available for both recreational play and organized competitions. The sport enjoys significant popularity among youth.
Cycling has gained popularity in Candelaria, with many residents participating in community rides and competitive events. The scenic surroundings provide a great backdrop for both casual and competitive cycling.
Volleyball is commonly played in local parks and schools, with many informal games taking place. The sport fosters community involvement and is enjoyed by both men and women.
Athletics, including running and track events, is promoted through local schools and clubs. Candelaria hosts various races and athletic events, encouraging fitness and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Candelaria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Colombian cuisine predominantly features meat, many restaurants in Candelaria now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Places like Salvo Patria and Quinua y Amaranto are known for their diverse plant-based menus.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free dishes at establishments like Delirio Exquisito, which caters to those seeking gluten-free versions of Colombian classics.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Candelaria with these cultural adventures.
