Things To Do
in Convención
Convención is a small, friendly town in northeastern Colombia set among rolling hills and river valleys. It blends a rural pace of life with a tight-knit community and colorful local markets where produce and handmade crafts spill onto the streets. The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural landscapes, coffee farms, and river excursions that showcase the region's lush biodiversity.
Visitors are drawn by warm hospitality, simple lodgings, and a chance to experience authentic Norte de Santander culture away from the more touristy routes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Convención's historic center, where you can admire the colonial architecture and colorful facades. Visit the local market to enjoy a delicious breakfast of arepas and fresh fruit, mingling with locals as they start their day. Take a moment to snap photos of the quaint plazas and charming churches that showcase the town's rich history.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the local culture by visiting the Museo de Convención, where you'll learn about the region's indigenous heritage and historical significance. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, savoring traditional Colombian dishes while soaking up the lively atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, wander through the artisanal shops for unique handcrafted souvenirs to bring back home.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot in a local eatery to enjoy a dinner featuring fresh fish from the nearby rivers. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences from your day in this hidden gem of a town. Conclude your evening with a stroll under the stars, taking in the tranquil ambiance of Convención.
Embark on an early morning adventure to the breathtaking Chicamocha Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world, located just a short drive from Convención. After arriving, take a moment to appreciate the stunning landscapes before gearing up for a thrilling day of outdoor activities. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local eatery near the canyon, fueling up for your exciting day ahead.
Spend your afternoon engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities such as paragliding or zip-lining over the canyon for an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, hike the trails that wind along the canyon's edge, where you'll encounter awe-inspiring views and unique flora and fauna. After your adventures, relax with a picnic lunch, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the area.
As the sun begins to set, head back to Convención and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day's adventures. Share your experiences with fellow travelers and locals, discussing the breathtaking sights and thrilling activities you enjoyed. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the cool evening air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 💧One liter of water (bottled) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚎One-way local transport fare | $0.20-0.80 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Autentic cultural experiences with warm, welcoming locals
- Affordable prices and simple, satisfying cuisine
- Access to scenic countryside, rivers, and nearby farms
- Relaxed pace of life away from major tourist hubs
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Rural transport can be less reliable and longer to reach
- Healthcare facilities are basic locally; major care may require travel to a larger city
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Convención
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square framed by colorful storefronts and the local church; ideal for daytime and golden-hour photography with lively street scenes.
Old church and surrounding colonial-adjacent streets with shuttered balconies and flower-filled courtyards.
Riverside vantage with lush valley views and sunset backdrops; perfect for wide landscape shots.
Terraced farmland and hillside homes offer intimate portraits of everyday life and vibrant colors.
Food in Convención
Convención Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa stuffed with melty cheese, a popular breakfast or snack served fresh from markets.
Must-Try!
Savory chicken stew with plantains, yuca, and corn, often enjoyed as a comforting family dish.
Roasted goat meat marinated with local herbs, commonly found at country-side eateries and farm-to-table spots.
Beef steak topped with fried egg and served with rice, plantains, and salad—simple, satisfying, and widely available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can sample arepas, empanadas, fruit juices, and fresh produce from regional farmers.
Casual vendors offering arepas, patacones, grilled sausage skewers, and freshly pressed juice beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and use polite forms like 'usted' with adults you don’t know well.
Ask for consent when photographing people, especially children. A simple, friendly request is appreciated.
Be respectful in churches and communal spaces; remove hats indoors and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Convención
Ensure a smooth experience
In full-service restaurants a tip of 5–10% is appreciated; small tips for hotel staff and guides are common. Taxis typically do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare is nice.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Debit and credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; some rural places may be cash-only. Mobile payments are increasingly common in towns with card facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to March typically brings clearer skies and lower humidity, making outdoor activities more comfortable and hiking easier.
April–May and October–November can bring sudden showers; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a lightweight rain layer.
June–August and late August–September offer moderate crowds and pleasant temperatures, with occasional showers; good balance for exploring both town and countryside.
Convención at Night
Hiking in Convención
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hillside trail with panoramic valley views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Riverside path along the Catatumbo fringe offering lush scenery and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Convención by plane.
Primary regional gateway serving Norte de Santander; provides domestic and some international connections. From Convención, travel by road or bus to reach the airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of the town center who work in markets, services, and small businesses.
Families and villages in surrounding hills who cultivate crops and manage family-run farms.
People connected to cross-region trade and seasonal labor in agriculture and goods moving through the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region; local games and informal matches are common in plazas and schools.
Widely played in schools and community centers; occasional local tournaments occur in town facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Convención.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most eateries; look for arroz con frijoles, plátano, yuca, fresh salads, and veggie soups. When ordering, ask for ‘vegetariano’ o ‘sin carne’ and confirm no meat broths.