Things To Do
in El Zulia

A generous plate featuring rice, beans, fried plantain, meat (often grilled or stewed), salad and arepa — found in local eateries and corrientazos.

Must-Try!

Fried freshwater fish prepared simply with lime and salt — best at local family restaurants near rivers or markets.

Corn arepa served hot with hogao (tomato and onion sauce) — ubiquitous and inexpensive from street vendors and breakfast stalls.

Polite greetings are important — say buenos días/tardes and offer a handshake. Use formal 'usted' with elders or officials until invited to use first names.

Family and church play central roles in community life; dress modestly at religious events and ask permission before photographing people in private situations.

Colombians are warm and conversational; small talk and polite questions about family are common. Punctuality can be relaxed for social events, but be on time for official appointments.

Drier, sunnier weather with less rain — best for hiking, farm visits and photography; temperatures remain mild to warm during the day but cooler at night.

Frequent afternoon showers and occasional heavy rain; some rural roads can become muddy, so travel may be slower. Bring rain gear and plan flexible activities.

Local festivities and more weekend visitors — town feels livelier, some businesses may have altered hours, and prices for local transport can be slightly higher.

Accessible riverbank walks and short trails ideal for birdwatching and easy daytime hikes — check with locals for the safest access points.

High-altitude moorland and protected areas farther afield; guided day trips or multi-day excursions are possible from the region for experienced hikers — permits and local guidance may be required.

Informal paths through coffee and cacao fincas offering gentle hikes, farm-to-table visits and photo opportunities — best explored with a host or guide.

Main regional airport serving Cúcuta, about a 30–60 minute drive depending on traffic — the most convenient gateway for reaching El Zulia by road.

Larger national airport approximately 2.5–3.5 hours by car; useful for travelers coming from Medellín or Bogotá connections.

Colombia’s main international hub; travel to El Zulia from Bogotá requires a domestic flight to Cúcuta or a multi-hour bus/car trip to the region.

Most residents are mestizo (mixed European and indigenous ancestry), reflecting Colombia’s broader demographic trends.

Indigenous and Afro-Colombian populations are present in the department, contributing to local cultural traditions and cuisine.

Due to proximity to the border, there is a notable Venezuelan migrant population in the region, affecting commerce, services and cultural exchange.

The most popular sport nationwide — local pickup games and community matches are common and a core part of social life.

Both recreational and competitive cycling are popular due to scenic country roads and varied terrain.

Traditional Colombian games (like tejo in some regions) and informal community sports/athletic events occur during festivals and weekends.

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in small towns; rice, beans, arepas, fried plantain and salads are reliable choices. Ask vendors for dishes without meat or request extra plantain/arepa; in larger towns like Cúcuta you’ll find more specific vegetarian offerings.

Vegan choices are less common; carry snacks and be explicit (in Spanish) about no dairy or animal products. Fresh fruit, juices and simple starches are available but verify preparation methods.

Corn-based foods (arepas, corn empanadas) are often gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible — communicate needs clearly and favor naturally gluten-free staple foods.