Convención
,Convención is a small town located in the Norte de Santander department of Colombia. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including lush green landscapes and mountains. The town has a predominantly rural economy, with agriculture being a primary source of livelihood for the local community.
Convención is also a destination for eco-tourism, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the region's biodiversity.
- "¿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 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploration Day
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience authentic Colombian culture. Enjoy fresh fruits and local snacks as you stroll through the vibrant stalls.
afternoon
:Take a guided tour through the historic center of Convención. Discover charming colonial architecture and learn about the town's rich history from your guide.
evening
:Dine at a popular local restaurant known for its traditional dishes. Enjoy live music while trying the local specialties.
Nature Immersion Day
morning
:Head to the nearby natural reserve for a guided hike. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the stunning flora and fauna.
afternoon
:Relax by a serene river and enjoy a picnic lunch in the midst of nature. Take some time to reflect while soaking in the tranquility.
evening
:Return to town and enjoy a quiet evening at a café. Savor a cup of Colombian coffee paired with delicious pastries.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage, including Afro-Colombian and Indigenous influences.
- Lush natural landscapes, including access to the Pacific Ocean and nearby national parks.
- Potential for eco-tourism and adventure sports.
- Warm climate year-round, appealing for both locals and tourists.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to larger cities.
- Economic challenges, including unemployment and poverty in certain areas.
- Potential safety concerns related to crime in some regions.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Chicamocha Canyon
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Chicamocha Canyon, enjoying panoramic views and vibrant vegetation while hiking various trails suitable for different skill levels.
Paragliding
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the picturesque landscapes of Convención, taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys from above.
Cycling Tours
Join guided cycling tours through the scenic countryside of Convención, where you can enjoy the fresh air and local flora and fauna while also getting some exercise.
Bird Watching
Discover the rich biodiversity of the region by participating in bird watching tours, where you can observe various species of birds native to the area.
Cultural Visits to Indigenous Communities
Engage with local indigenous communities to learn about their traditions, crafts, and the natural environment they inhabit, while supporting sustainable tourism.
Fishing in Local Rivers
Enjoy a peaceful day fishing in the rivers around Convención, where you can experience the tranquility of nature and possibly catch local fish species.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Convención with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Cerro La Cruz
Cerro La Cruz offers stunning panoramic views of Convención and its surrounding natural landscapes, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Rio Guamal
The Rio Guamal provides picturesque views and opportunities for capturing the beauty of Convención's waterways and lush vegetation.
Mirador de la Virgen
Mirador de la Virgen is a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of Convención, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the best photo opportunities in the area.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring red beans, rice, ground meat, chorizo, chicharrón, fried egg, plantain, and avocado. Best enjoyed at Restaurante El Paisa.
Must-Try!
Ajiaco Santafereño
A comforting chicken and potato soup with corn on the cob, capers, and avocado. Savor the authentic flavor at La Casona Restaurant.
Arepa de Huevo
A crispy corn patty filled with a whole egg and deep-fried. Look for this savory snack at street vendors in the town center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Convención better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Campesino
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheese, and artisanal crafts. Sample empanadas, tropical fruits, and freshly squeezed juices from the numerous vendors.
Plaza de Mercado de Convención
Explore this vibrant market offering a wide array of street food such as arepas, tamales, and grilled meats. Don't miss the fragrant coffee served by the local vendors.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Convención, a common form of greeting is a handshake accompanied by a friendly smile. It is also customary to greet acquaintances with a hug or a kiss on the cheek, particularly among friends and family.
Punctuality
While punctuality is appreciated, it is not always strictly observed in social settings. It's important to be understanding if events start later than scheduled, but arriving within a reasonable timeframe is still considered respectful.
Polite Conversation Topics
When engaging in conversation, avoid sensitive topics such as politics or personal finances. Instead, focus on neutral subjects like family, local culture, and shared interests to foster a respectful dialogue.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Convención with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Convención, Colombia, tipping is generally a common practice in the service industry. While it is not mandatory, it is appreciated by service workers. Customers typically leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill in restaurants, cafes, and bars. In more informal settings, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also common. Tipping taxi drivers is less common, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Payment
Payment methods in Convención can vary. While cash is still widely used, electronic payments through credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in many establishments. Mobile payment apps are also becoming more popular among younger populations. It is advisable for visitors to have some cash on hand for small purchases or in places that do not accept card payments.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Convención.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (December to February)
This is a great time to visit Convención, as the weather is typically dry and sunny. You can expect warm temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Rainy Season (March to November)
During the rainy season, Convención experiences frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet conditions. However, this is a good time for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Parque Natural Serranía de los Churumbelos
A stunning natural park featuring lush forests, diverse wildlife, and various hiking trails with breathtaking views.
Cerro La Virgen
A popular hike that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, combining spirituality with natural beauty.
Reserva Natural Cañón del Combeima
This reserve provides hiking opportunities along the Combeima River, with beautiful landscapes and an array of flora and fauna.
Parque Nacional Natural Farallones de Cali
Located a bit further away, this national park boasts challenging trails with rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and stunning vistas.
Sendero La Gaitana
A lesser-known trail that takes hikers through serene environments filled with unique vegetation and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Convención through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Convención by plane.
El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
Located in Bogotá, this is the primary international airport in Colombia and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)
Located in Medellín, this airport serves as another key international gateway in Colombia and offers a range of international and domestic flights.
Cali International Airport (CLO)
Located in Cali, this airport provides international services and serves as an important connection for travelers in the southwestern region of Colombia.
Cartagena Airport (CTG)
Officially known as Rafael Núñez International Airport, it is located in Cartagena and is key for international flights, especially in the Caribbean region.
Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR)
Located in Santa Marta, this international airport offers connections primarily to domestic and some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Afro-Colombian
A significant portion of the population in Convención, these individuals are descendants of Africans brought to Colombia during the transatlantic slave trade.
Indigenous Peoples
Represent various indigenous groups with distinct cultures and languages, contributing to the diversity of the region.
Mestizos
The result of the mixing of European settlers and Indigenous peoples, this group constitutes a large demographic in Convención.
White Colombians
Individuals of European descent, often involved in agriculture and business within the region.
Others
Includes immigrants from various regions and countries, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Convención.
The Soul of Convención
Discover the essence of Convención through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Convención, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored activity in Convención, taking advantage of the region's diverse terrain and scenic routes.
Baseball
Baseball has a significant presence in the region, with local leagues and passionate fans supporting the game.
Tejo
Tejo, a traditional Colombian sport involving throwing metal discs at a target with explosives, is widely played in Convención.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth in the area, with local clubs and teams participating in various competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Colombian cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Convención offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes like arepas and empanadas. For vegan options, fresh fruits and vegetable-based soups are widely available.
Gluten-Free Choices
Those with gluten restrictions can opt for corn-based dishes such as arepas and tamales, which are staples in the local diet. Additionally, grilled meats and fresh salads are excellent gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Convención with these cultural adventures.
