Things To Do
in Chimá
Chimá is a picturesque town located in the department of Boyacá, Colombia. It is known for its charming colonial architecture and tranquil atmosphere. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Visitors can also explore cultural sites like historic churches and museums showcasing the region's rich history.
- "¿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 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through the lush hills surrounding Chimá. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the fresh morning air.
Head back into town for lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional Colombian dishes. Afterward, visit the small artisan shops to look for unique handmade souvenirs.
Wind down your day by enjoying the sunset over the hills. Consider dining at a popular local restaurant to savor the flavors of Chimá.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and interact with friendly vendors. Sample fresh fruits and regional snacks for breakfast.
Participate in a cooking class where you can learn to make traditional Colombian meals. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch.
Attend a cultural event or festival if available, featuring local music and dance. This is a perfect opportunity to mingle with locals and immerse yourself in their traditions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions that attract tourists.
- Beautiful natural landscapes including mountains and coffee plantations.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Growing tourism industry providing economic opportunities.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in certain areas.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as landslides.
- Higher crime rates in some neighborhoods.
- Limited educational opportunities and resources.
Best Activities in Chimá
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and breathtaking views in the Sierra Nevada mountains, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Chimá is home to diverse bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching enthusiasts to observe and photograph exotic birds.
Experience adventure by rafting in the Sinú River, which offers thrilling rapids and stunning natural surroundings.
Engage with local communities to learn about their culture, traditions, and crafts through guided tours and workshops.
Set up camp in designated camping areas to enjoy stargazing and the serenity of nature in the Colombian outdoors.
Take advantage of the rugged terrain and picturesque landscapes for an exhilarating mountain biking experience.
Enjoy fishing in the local rivers, where you can catch a variety of freshwater fish in a serene environment.
Places to Visit in Chimá
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the town of Chimá. It's especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
This natural park provides breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and rich flora and fauna, perfect for nature photography.
The banks of the Río Sinú are ideal for capturing scenic river views and the lush greenery surrounding the area. Sunrise or sunset shots are particularly captivating.
A lookout point featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary, offering spectacular views of Chimá and the surrounding countryside.
The nearby coffee region provides picturesque landscapes with rolling hills and coffee plantations, perfect for capturing the essence of Colombia.
Food in Chimá
Chimá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken soup with three varieties of potatoes, corn on the cob, capers, cream, and avocado. Best enjoyed at local eateries like La Casona de la 13.
Must-Try!
A signature dish featuring red beans, rice, ground meat, plantain, chorizo, arepa, avocado, and a fried egg. La Casa de La Pasta is renowned for its authentic Bandeja Paisa.
These savory turnovers are typically filled with meat, potatoes, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. Try the best empanadas at Empanadas El Macho.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies. Try street food like arepas, tamales, and grilled meats from various vendors.
A vibrant street food scene awaits on Calle 10, where you can sample Colombian favorites like chuzos (grilled meat skewers), patacones (fried plantains), and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chimá, a warm greeting is essential. A handshake is common, but people may also greet each other with a hug or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the familiarity. Use 'Buenos días' for good morning, 'Buenas tardes' for good afternoon, and 'Buenas noches' for good evening.
Showing respect for elders is crucial in Chimá culture. Always address older individuals with titles like 'Don' or 'Doña' followed by their first name. Listening attentively and allowing them to speak first in conversations reflects respect.
Dressing neatly and modestly is culturally significant in Chimá. Locals take pride in their appearance, especially during public gatherings and festivals. It's advisable to avoid overly casual or revealing clothing to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Chimá
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chimá, Colombia, tipping is generally appreciated but not compulsory. It is common to leave a small tip (around 10% of the bill) at restaurants if the service is satisfactory. In casual dining, rounding up the bill or leaving change is also a common practice. Tipping for taxi drivers is not expected, but many passengers round up the fare as a sign of appreciation.
Payments in Chimá can be made in cash (Colombian Pesos) or through mobile payment methods, which are becoming increasingly popular. Credit and debit cards are accepted in many larger establishments, but smaller vendors might only accept cash. It is advisable to carry cash for local markets and smaller shops, where cash transactions are preferred.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Chimá, as the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes.
During this period, you can expect frequent rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. The lush greenery is vibrant, and the rivers are full, making it a good time for eco-tourism and enjoying nature. However, plan for wet weather.
Chimá hosts various cultural festivals, including the Celebration of the Holy Cross in May and other regional events. Visiting during these times offers a unique opportunity to experience local traditions and festivities.
Chimá at Night
Hiking in Chimá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna, offering numerous hiking trails with breathtaking vistas.
A beautiful waterfall hike that leads you through lush greenery, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the sound of cascading water.
This scenic trail takes you through coffee plantations and cloud forests, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region and providing a unique hiking experience.
A challenging hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
This route offers a cultural journey alongside natural beauty, with opportunities to explore archaeological sites and enjoy the lush landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Chimá by plane.
The main international airport serving Santa Marta, located approximately 57 km from Chimá.
An international airport located in Cartagena, about 107 km from Chimá.
Located in Bucaramanga, this airport is approximately 128 km from Chimá.
Serves Barranquilla and is around 147 km from Chimá.
Located in Medellín, this international airport is about 248 km from Chimá.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Chimá, mainly composed of people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
Local Indigenous communities that contribute to the cultural heritage of Chimá.
Descendants of African slaves who have influenced the region's culture and traditions.
Residents of European descent who make up a smaller segment of the population in Chimá.
Includes immigrants or small communities from various backgrounds, contributing to the town's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Chimá, Colombia. It brings communities together and is played in streets and fields throughout the town.
Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport that involves throwing a metal disk at a target with explosives. It is popular in local bars and social gatherings.
Bicycling is a common recreational activity in Chimá, with many locals enjoying rides through the picturesque landscapes surrounding the area.
Basketball is played in various neighborhoods and schools. It is especially popular among the youth and is a regular part of after-school activities.
Volleyball is played both recreationally and competitively, often enjoyed on the beaches and parks during local festivities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chimá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine leans heavily towards meat, many restaurants and cafes in Chimá now offer veg-friendly dishes like plantain-based meals, vegetable soups, and fresh salads.
Those with gluten sensitivities can relish grilled meats, rice-based dishes, and fresh seafood options available at various dining establishments in Chimá.