Things To Do
in El Dovio
El Dovio is a small hillside town in western Colombia, set among green valleys and terraced farms. Perched above the valley, it offers sweeping views of coffee and fruit landscapes and a calm, rural pace. Its quiet streets, pastel-coloured houses, and welcoming residents make it an ideal base for exploring rural Colombia.
Visitors come to stroll the plazas, sample local wines and coffee, and hike into the surrounding hills that cradle the town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in El Dovio with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Afterward, wander through the charming streets and admire the vibrant murals that adorn many buildings. Engage with local artisans to learn about their crafts and create a lasting memory of your visit.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour to nearby waterfalls, where you can swim and relax in the refreshing waters. Delight in a picnic lunch surrounded by nature as you soak in the serene atmosphere. Capture beautiful photographs of the lush scenery as you trek through the trails.
As the sun sets, return to El Dovio and indulge in a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant. Savor local specialties while enjoying the warm ambiance and connecting with fellow travelers. After dinner, take a leisurely walk in the main plaza, where you can experience the lively spirit of the town.
Start with an early breakfast before heading out for a hike in the nearby mountains. The crisp morning air and breathtaking views will invigorate you as you navigate through diverse terrains. Look out for unique flora and fauna along the way.
After lunch, continue your adventure by tackling a challenging climbing route or attending a rock climbing workshop with local experts. This exhilarating experience will push your limits while giving you an opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes. Don't forget to stay hydrated and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Return to El Dovio and freshen up before enjoying an intimate dinner at a rooftop restaurant. As you dine, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the illuminated town beneath a starlit sky. Share stories with locals and fellow travelers, creating connections that will last long after your trip.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️One night in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic landscapes and friendly locals
- Strong coffee and regional wines, authentic rural experiences
- Limited upscale tourism infrastructure
- Varied road quality and limited English in rural areas
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you.
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in El Dovio
Visit one of these nice places.
A high overlook that captures the valley, vineyards, and distant hills especially at sunrise.
Central plaza with colonial balconies and warm tones providing classic street photography scenes.
Wine terrace with rows of vines and a colorful sunset over the hills.
Shoreline and wetlands with birds and reflections of the mountains during golden hour.
Food in El Dovio
El Dovio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled corn cakes stuffed with melted cheese and a savory onion-tomato sauce.
Must-Try!
A hearty chicken and plantain stew with yuca and corn, often served with avocado.
Grilled river trout seasoned with local herbs, often served with patacones and salad.
A ripe palm fruit dessert sweetened with miel, a regional treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where farmers bring fruit, vegetables, cheese and fresh bread daily; try empanadas and arepas from street stalls.
Arepas, patacones, and tamales served hot from small carts around the central square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello or buenos días; use señor/señora with elders; avoid loud displays in sacred spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting farms or religious sites; keep voices low in public spaces and queues.
Be on time for tours and accept invitations; bringing small gifts for hosts is unusual but appreciated in some settings.
Safety
Tipping in El Dovio
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, check if service is included. If not, leave about 5–10%. Round up taxi fares.
Cash (Colombian pesos and dollars), debit and credit cards are widely accepted in town; some small shops are cash-only; mobile wallets are increasing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days, clear skies, and comfortable hiking weather; evenings can be cool; carry sunscreen and water.
Frequent afternoon showers and misty mornings; trails can be slippery; pack rain gear and waterproof footwear.
El Dovio at Night
Hiking in El Dovio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike with scenic valley views and coffee plantations along the route.
A trail that follows streams and small waterfalls through a lush hillside landscape.
A scenic route connecting several vineyards with viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach El Dovio by plane.
Cali airport about 60–120 minutes by car; major international hub with many flight options.
Pereira airport with regional and limited international flights; good alternative to Cali.
Major national and international hub; longer travel time but many connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents are long-time families engaged in farming and small businesses.
A growing number of travelers and expats attracted by the wine and rural tourism scene.
Small presence in surrounding areas with cultural exchanges at markets and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and community leagues are common in evenings and weekends.
Rural roads and hills make great routes for road biking and cycling events.
Occasional local gatherings feature this traditional game played with metal disks and clay, a fun cultural activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Dovio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for cheese, beans, lentils, grilled vegetables and arepas as alternatives.
Choose corn arepas and grilled proteins; avoid breaded items and most pastries; confirm salsa ingredients in sauces.
Request olive oil use and dairy-free sauces or salads; many sauces use dairy in local recipes.