Things To Do
in El Paso
El Paso, Colombia is a highland town set amid rolling green valleys and coffee country. It blends colonial charm with a relaxed mountain-town pace and friendly locals. Visitors come for scenic viewpoints, outdoor trails, and a taste of rural Colombian life away from the largest cities.
The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural reserves and cultural experiences rooted in the region's traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the main square, Plaza de Bolivar, where the vibrant energy of El Paso comes alive. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, sampling arepas and fresh coffee. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colonial architecture and historical monuments that tell the story of the city.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo de Arte Moderno, which showcases contemporary Colombian art and offers insightful exhibits. Take a leisurely walk to the nearby Mercado de Artesanías, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try a refreshing jugo de maracuyá (passion fruit juice) from a street vendor as you explore.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a taste of El Paso's famous bandeja paisa, a hearty dish that embodies Colombian cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a gentle walk along the riverbank, where you can soak in the tranquil atmosphere and watch the city lights reflect on the water. Conclude your evening with live music at a nearby bar, immersing yourself in the local cultural scene.
Embark on an early morning trip to La Sierra Nevada, a stunning mountain range filled with breathtaking views. Begin with a guided hike through lush trails, where you can spot unique flora and fauna native to the region. Stop at a picturesque viewpoint to capture the beauty of the landscape and appreciate the serenity of nature.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the towering peaks, listening to the sounds of nature. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to a local indigenous community, where you can learn about their culture and traditions. Participate in a workshop to create traditional crafts, gaining a deeper appreciation for their heritage.
Return to El Paso in the evening, where you can unwind at a cozy café with a view of the mountains. Savor a warm cup of hot chocolate made with local cocoa, a comforting way to end the day. Share stories of your adventures with fellow travelers and reflect on your experiences in the mountains.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (start price) | $0.80-1.80 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel per night | $25-40 |
| 🧺Markets produce or snacks | $0.50-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
- Access to scenic hikes, coffee country, and traditional cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared with big cities
- Some services and infrastructure can be basic outside the town center
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in El Paso
Visit one of these nice places.
A hillside overlook offering sweeping views of the valley and surrounding hills—best at sunrise or sunset.
A historic church with a sturdy façade and simple interior, ideal for capturing architectural details and doorway frames.
Bustling civic heart with fountains, travelers, and vendors; great for candid street photography and colorfully dressed locals.
Bridge or riverside spots that frame the river with the mountains in the distance; ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in El Paso
El Paso Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa with cheese, a breakfast favorite found at street stalls and markets.
Must-Try!
A hearty chicken sancocho with corn, plantains, and root vegetables, often served with arepas.
A substantial platter of beans, rice, meat or eggs, plantains, avocado, and accompaniments.
A simple, sweet dessert of figs with a ribbons of arequipe (dulce de leche).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks like arepas and empanadas.
Casual vendors selling fried snacks, sweet treats, and coffee beverages; ideal for a quick bite while people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings in Spanish (hola, buenos días) are appreciated. A handshake or a cheek kiss may occur with friends and family, depending on local customs.
Ask before photographing people, especially children or families, and be respectful of private spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas; comfortable but neat attire is standard for daily life.
Safety
Tipping in El Paso
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good and not already included. For street vendors, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels; have local currency ready for street purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry periods bring clear skies and pleasant daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities and long walks. Nights can be cool, so bring a light layer.
Afternoon showers are common; plan for flexible schedules and carry a compact rain jacket. Trails may be muddy but scenery is lush and vibrant.
El Paso at Night
Hiking in El Paso
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short-to-moderate hike with panoramic valley views; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Longer trail through forested ridges with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Airports
How to reach El Paso by plane.
A small airstrip serving domestic flights; connections to larger hubs require onward travel by road or bus.
Typically reached via a regional flight; from there, international or domestic connections are available to major destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing communities with strong ties to agriculture and crafts.
People who work on nearby plantations, coffee farms, and markets.
Visitors seeking nature, culture, and gastronomy in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in plazas and parks.
Popular on rural roads and mountain routes; scenic rides draw local enthusiasts and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Paso.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for bean-based stews, corn-based dishes, rice with vegetables, and fresh fruit. When ordering, ask for sauces on the side and verify that broths or meats aren’t used in soups.