Things To Do
in El Retorno
El Retorno is a small riverside town in Colombia located along the Guaviare River at coordinates 2.3306, -72.6278. It merges riverine culture with lush Amazonian landscapes, offering a relaxed pace and friendly local welcome. Access is typically via regional air travel followed by road and boat transfers, which adds to its remote and adventurous appeal.
The surrounding forests, wetlands, and palm groves teem with wildlife, making it a solid base for nature and cultural exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the vibrant local market in El Retorno, where you can immerse yourself in the colors and aromas of fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors and sample local delicacies while soaking in the lively atmosphere. This is a great opportunity to take photos and interact with the locals to learn more about their culture.
After lunch, take a scenic walk along the Guaviare River, enjoying the stunning views of the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. You can rent a kayak and paddle along the calm waters, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Keep an eye out for unique bird species and other wildlife native to this beautiful region.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local restaurant to savor traditional Colombian dishes such as bandeja paisa or sancocho. Enjoy a warm atmosphere filled with music and laughter as you share stories with fellow travelers and locals. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll back to your accommodations, taking in the peaceful sounds of the night.
Wake up early and prepare for an adventure into the Amazonian jungle surrounding El Retorno. Join a guided tour that takes you deep into the rainforest, where you'll learn about the rich biodiversity and importance of this unique ecosystem. Keep your camera handy for photos of exotic plants and creatures that inhabit this lush environment.
During the afternoon, participate in a traditional survival workshop that teaches you essential skills for living in the jungle, including building shelters and identifying edible plants. This hands-on experience will enhance your appreciation for the indigenous cultures that thrive in this region. Refresh with a lunch of local fruits and snacks provided by your guide.
After a day of exploration, return to El Retorno and unwind at a local café. Share your experiences with fellow adventurers while enjoying a delicious cup of Colombian coffee. Listen to the soothing sounds of the night as you reflect on the incredible sights and sounds of the jungle.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🏨Lodging per night (budget) | $20-40 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛶Guided river excursion | $25-60 |
| 🧴Mosquito repellent | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and wildlife in a relatively uncrowded setting
- Affordable travel with authentic riverine culture and cuisine
- Unique river-based adventures and indigenous community experiences
- Remote location with limited infrastructure and healthcare options
- Language barriers can be a challenge for non-Spanish speakers
- Seasonal variations in travel can affect river access and visibility
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in El Retorno
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the wide river with silhouettes of mangroves and palm trees; a peaceful spot for wide-angle river photography.
Colorful boats, market activity, and reflections on the water create vibrant street photography opportunities.
Natural clay banks along the river offer interesting textures and hues, especially during early or late light.
Colorful riverside homes provide intimate portrait and street photography possibilities.
Food in El Retorno
El Retorno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled pirarucu river fish served with cassava or plantains; a signature river dish found at many riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Freshly fried river fish with yuca, patacones, or rice; common at markets and casual riverfront spots.
A hearty yucca and plantain soup with regional herbs, often enjoyed as a comforting staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful local market offering fresh fish, fruits, yuca, cassava bread, roots, and handmade crafts; a great place to sample everyday flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a smile and a handshake. Show respect to elders and community leaders; ask permission before entering homes or taking photos of people, especially in indigenous or rural communities.
Dress modestly in public areas; avoid loud or confrontational behavior; preserve quiet, relaxed rhythms in social spaces.
Always ask before photographing people, crafts, or ceremonies; some communities reserve photography for guides or hosts.
Safety
Tipping in El Retorno
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good; in tourist-focused spots 10% is common. For guides and boat crews, small tips at the end of a trip are customary.
Cash (Colombian pesos or USD) is widely accepted in town; credit cards may be limited to larger establishments or tourist services. Carry small denominations for markets and vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hotter days with less rainfall, making boat travel and outdoor activities more comfortable. Humidity remains high but rivers are navigable and trails are drier.
Frequent showers and heavier humidity; waterways swell, which can enhance river wildlife viewing but may raise travel times. Mosquitoes are more active; bring repellent and light rain gear.
Shoulder months can offer a mix of sun and rain; good for versatile outdoor plans, but be prepared for sudden showers and ground dampness.
El Retorno at Night
Hiking in El Retorno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails offering birdwatching, canopy views, and opportunities to observe local flora.
Short hikes to overlooks with panoramic river and forest vistas, ideal for photography at dawn or dusk.
Airports
How to reach El Retorno by plane.
Regional airport connecting to major Colombian cities; from the airport, road and river transfers connect you to El Retorno.
Major gateway to southern Amazonia; typically used for longer journeys to reach El Retorno by combination of air and river travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A blend of mestizo residents with riverine communities and some indigenous groups; languages include Spanish and various indigenous tongues in nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, played in streets and local clubs.
Common activities on the river, incorporating traditional skills and local guides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Retorno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many plantain, yucca, bean, and vegetable dishes are available; ask for no fish or meat and request oil or broth to be prepared separately if needed.