Things To Do
in Florencia
Florencia is the capital of Caquetá, nestled in Colombia's Amazonian foothills along the Caquetá River. The city blends colonial charm with a lively, contemporary pulse and serves as a gateway to the surrounding rainforest. Its diverse mix of Afro-Colombian, Indigenous, and migrant communities gives Florencia a welcoming, multicultural vibe.
Visitors will find lush landscapes, warm hospitality, and a pace that invites exploration and Slow Travel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional arepas and fresh Colombian coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the Plaza de la Paz, where local vendors showcase their crafts and products.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing the works of Colombian artists. After the museum, wander through the nearby artisan market, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local delicacies like bandeja paisa.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can relish traditional dishes accompanied by live music. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the twinkling city lights. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar for a taste of aguardiente, a popular Colombian spirit.
Begin your morning with a guided tour to the nearby Amazon rainforest, where you can spot exotic wildlife and learn about the diverse ecosystem. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a lodge, surrounded by the sounds of nature, before setting out on your adventure. Prepare for a hike through the lush trails, where you'll encounter vibrant flora and fauna.
After your morning hike, take a canoe ride along the river, giving you a chance to see wildlife up close, including monkeys and colorful birds. Enjoy a packed lunch by the riverbank, soaking in the serene surroundings and natural beauty. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or participating in a guided bird-watching session.
Return to Florencia in the evening and unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, treating yourself to grilled fish or chicken with traditional sides. Cap off the night by sharing stories with fellow travelers or enjoying a quiet evening walk.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Water or soft drink | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Groceries or market snacks | $4-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Amazonian landscapes and diverse wildlife
- Warm, welcoming communities with rich cultural traditions
- Affordable costs and a relaxed pace compared to bigger cities
- Delicious, straightforward local dishes and fresh market produce
- Limited international flight options from Florencia itself
- Smaller nightlife and fewer high-end dining choices
- Occasional connectivity and infrastructure gaps in remote areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cómo llego a…?" - How do I get to…?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Estoy perdido. ¿Puede ayudarme?" - I’m lost. Can you help me?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Florencia
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square with historic buildings and a photogenic clock tower, especially atmospheric in early morning light.
Wide river vistas, evening golden hour reflections, and activity along the promenade for candid street photography.
A hillside viewpoint offering panoramic city views at sunset, ideal for wide urban landscape shots.
Food in Florencia
Florencia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fish stew with yuca, plantains, and corn; a comforting staple found in riverside towns and market stalls.
Must-Try!
Grilled corn cake stuffed or topped with local cheese; a common street or market snack.
Crispy fried fish served with fried plantain slices; popular near the riverfront and family eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market where you can sample fresh fruit, arepas, tamales, and regional fish dishes.
Evening market with stalls offering quick bites, snacks, and local beverages in a lively square setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting with a smile goes a long way. Use usted with strangers and elders; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces and respect local sensibilities, especially in religious or rural areas.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in Indigenous or rural communities; engage with local hosts with warmth and curiosity.
Safety
Tipping in Florencia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if service isn’t included. Small tips to guides or taxi drivers are common but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Many hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, but carry local currency for street stalls and smaller businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunnier with less rain, making outdoor activities and city tours more comfortable. Still bring a light rain layer for occasional showers.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity. Muddy trails and river levels rise—perfect for lush greenery and waterfall photography, but plan indoor alternatives if you’re sensitive to rain.
Florencia at Night
Hiking in Florencia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic hikes through tropical forest edges with chances to encounter birds and butterflies.
Day trips along riverbanks offering tranquil scenery, wildlife viewing, and easy walking terrain.
Airports
How to reach Florencia by plane.
Small facility serving Caquetá; flights primarily connect to Bogotá and Medellín, with limited schedules.
Major national and international hub; from Bogotá you can catch connections to most Colombian cities and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People living in the city center and newer neighborhoods, often with mixed occupations.
Small communities in and around Caquetá with distinct cultural traditions and languages.
Residents from rural Caquetá and migrants from other parts of Colombia and neighboring countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia; local matches and informal games are common in neighborhoods and schools.
Widely played in community centers and schools; pickups and local leagues happen on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Florencia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for beans, lentils, and plant-based dishes in markets and cafés. Request vegetable-forward options, and confirm that broths or stocks are meat-free. In street stalls, ask about ingredients and cross-contamination, and consider ordering simple salads and rice dishes.