Things To Do
in Chimá
Chimá is a small rural municipality in Colombia's Córdoba Department, set among lush river plains and agricultural landscapes. The town centers around a compact plaza, a parish church, and a warm, close-knit community. Life here blends farming, fishing, and market-running with easy access to nearby rivers and nature trails.
While modest in size, Chimá serves as a tranquil base for exploring northern Colombia’s rural charm and coastal-adjacent ecosystems.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Chimá and settle into your charming guesthouse surrounded by palm trees. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee on the veranda while taking in the warm morning light. Meet your local guide for an orientation stroll around the central plaza to learn about the town’s history.
Explore the colorful streets of Chimá at a leisurely pace and visit the small municipal museum to admire regional artifacts. Stop at a roadside stall to sample arepas de huevo and chat with friendly vendors about life in the municipality. Return to your lodging for a short rest and prepare for evening activities.
Head back to the plaza to watch locals gather for sunset as the sky turns golden. Savor a dinner of sancocho de pescado at a family-run restaurant, accompanied by fresh tropical fruit juice. Unwind on the hotel terrace under twinkling lights and plan the adventures ahead.
Board a traditional wooden boat for a sunrise cruise along the Cereté River, listening to parrots and kingfishers in the treetops. Feel the cool mist on your face as you glide past mangroves and fishing villages. Learn about artisanal net casting from local fishermen at the water’s edge.
Anchor at a sandy riverbank and enjoy a picnic of pan de bono, bananas, and champús made by a riverside family. Wade into the calm currents for a refreshing swim and watch children fishing with homemade rods. Share stories and laughter with your hosts before continuing downstream.
Return to Chimá as fireflies begin to sparkle along the riverbanks. Dine alfresco at a riverside marisquería, feasting on grilled tilapia with coconut rice. End the night with a peaceful walk under a canopy of stars reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transport (bus/taxi) | $0.5-2 per ride |
| 🛍️Groceries and essentials | $5-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small-town Colombian experience
- Close access to rivers, nature, and regional cuisine
- Warm, welcoming local communities
- Limited nightlife and English-speaking services in rural areas
- Some roads can be challenging during the rainy season
- Fewer major tourist attractions compared to larger cities
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde queda el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chimá
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming plaza framed by a colonial church, palm trees, and colorful storefronts—ideal for daytime portraiture and candid street scenes.
Long, tranquil riverbank views with boats and marshes; golden hour lighting provides atmospheric landscape photography.
Evening lights, vendors, and activity create dynamic street photography opportunities.
Food in Chimá
Chimá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A simple, warm corn cake often enjoyed at breakfast, typically served with cheese or butter.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew with plantains, yuca, and corn on the cob, popular in river towns.
Coconut-infused rice often served with fried fish or shrimp; a coastal staple.
Fried river fish served with crisp plantain slices for a satisfying meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local hub for fresh produce, fish, and handmade snacks, ideal for sampling regional flavors.
Casual stalls offering arepas, empanadas, patacones, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting such as 'hola' or 'buenos días' is appreciated; use formal 'usted' with strangers and elders.
Ask before photographing people, especially in intimate settings or with children; a polite explanation helps.
Casual, modest attire is typical; dress respectfully when visiting churches or sacred spaces.
Local discussions are friendly and expressive; avoid sensitive politics topics in first encounters.
Safety
Tipping in Chimá
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5–10% is common if service is good. Rounding up taxi fares is a typical courtesy.
Cash remains widely used in small towns; many places in larger establishments accept cards. Mobile payments (e.g., Nequi, Daviplata) are increasingly common for small transactions and transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with clear skies; excellent for outdoor explorations and long walks.
Afternoons frequently bring showers; pack light rain gear and plan flexible outdoor plans.
Weather is variable; mornings are often drier with heat building by midday.
Heavier rainfall in many areas; some roads can be muddy or impassable after storms; adjust plans accordingly.
Chimá at Night
Hiking in Chimá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes through agricultural edges and riverine corridors; great for day trips and wildlife viewing.
Waterfront paths with scenic views, particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Biodiverse wetland trails in nearby areas offering birdlife and unique swamp landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Chimá by plane.
Regional gateway to the area; frequent flights to major Colombian cities. Access to Chimá typically via ground transport from Montería.
Major coastal international gateway; longer drive from Chimá but convenient when combining a coastal itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in the region, reflecting a mix of Indigenous, European, and African ancestry.
Presence in riverine and coastal-adjacent areas, contributing to cultural diversity and music traditions.
Smallholder farmers and fishers form a significant portion of the population, sustaining local markets and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in schools and communities; local matches and informal play are common.
Played in community centers and schools; occasional local tournaments.
Seen in some rural areas and youth programs; popular among families.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chimá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist primarily as vegetable sides, salads, and bean-based dishes. Communicate your needs clearly to avoid meat stock or broth. Many dishes can be adapted by requesting substitutions like more vegetables, rice, beans, and plantains.