Things To Do
in Génova
Génova is a small highland town tucked in Colombia’s Andean foothills, where coffee smells mingle with lush cloud forests. Its colonial charm and welcoming locals invite slow travel, good conversations, and easy day trips to nearby valleys and rivers. The surrounding landscape offers scenic waterfalls, farms, and viewpoints that reveal a quieter side of rural Colombia.
Visitors use Génova as a base to experience authentic regional life, from markets brimming with produce to humble, flavorful meals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Café de la Plaza, where you can enjoy fresh arepas and local coffee. After your meal, take a stroll through the charming streets of Génova, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the town's story. Don’t miss the iconic Plaza de Bolívar, where you can soak in the atmosphere and watch locals go about their day.
After lunch at a local eatery, embark on a guided walking tour of the historical sites, including the beautiful Iglesia Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. Each stop provides insight into the rich cultural heritage of Génova, allowing you to connect with the town's history. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a refreshing drink at a café with a terrace overlooking the plaza.
In the evening, indulge in a traditional Colombian dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the town, enjoying the cooler temperatures and the sound of music wafting from nearby venues. For a nightcap, find a cozy bar where you can mingle with locals and other travelers.
Dedicate your morning to visiting one of the region's renowned coffee farms, starting with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation. Guided by a knowledgeable host, learn about the coffee cultivation process as you walk through lush plantations surrounded by stunning hills. Participate in a coffee tasting session, where you can savor the rich flavors of local brews.
After your morning tour, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring delicious regional ingredients prepared with love. Spend the afternoon participating in hands-on activities, such as coffee picking or roasting beans, allowing you to truly appreciate the craft behind each cup. The farm's serene setting offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and contemplation among nature.
Return to Génova, where you can refresh and prepare for an evening of local delights. Dine at a family-run restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, accompanied by a selection of local beverages. As the evening winds down, consider attending a cultural event or show if available, immersing yourself in the lively spirit of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way ride) | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic Andean landscapes and coffee culture
- Warm, welcoming locals and authentic local cuisine
- Compact town center easy to explore on foot
- Low-key, safe and relaxed atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Limited English spoken by locals; language helps for deeper interactions
- Rural roads can be challenging in rainy season
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¡La cuenta, por favor!" - The bill, please.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "¡Gracias!" - Thank you!
- "(Me puede ayudar) Estoy perdido" - Could you help me? I am lost.
Places to Visit in Génova
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook above Génova with sweeping valley and mountain views at sunrise.
Historic square with colonial architecture, perfect for street photography and portraits.
Riverside scenes and rustic bridges ideal for golden-hour shots.
Food in Génova
Génova Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional corn flatcake, often enjoyed for breakfast with cheese or hogao.
Must-Try!
Milk-based soup with eggs, cilantro, and bread; a comforting Andean breakfast classic.
Creamy potato soup with cheese and corn; a hearty option in mountain towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market with fresh produce, coffee roasters, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Stalls offering arepas, empanadas, fresh fruits, and jugos naturales.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or kiss on the cheek among friends; address adults with Señor/Señora.
Ask before photographing people; a polite, friendly approach is expected.
Modest, casual attire is standard in towns; avoid revealing outfits in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Génova
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leaving a 5-10% tip is appreciated; round up taxis; small tips for tour guides.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards, especially in towns and hotels; keep some cash for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with clearer skies, great for outdoor hikes and photography; expect cooler evenings.
In the wet season, showers are frequent; lush landscapes and waterfall flows are dramatic, but trails can be slippery.
Génova at Night
Hiking in Génova
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 2-3 hour round-trip hike to a beautiful waterfall near Génova.
Cloud forest reserve with birdlife and forest canopy views; moderate hike.
Ridge trail offering panoramic valley views and sunset vistas.
Airports
How to reach Génova by plane.
The closest major airport serving the coffee region; connections to Bogotá and other cities; about a 1.5-3 hour drive depending on roads.
A larger international hub about 3-4 hours by road; many domestic flights through Bogotá.
Regional airport with several domestic and limited international flights; approx 2-4 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of urban residents and rural farmers; communities with cultural traditions in music and crafts.
Smaller indigenous communities in surrounding areas with distinct customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local games and informal matches across town.
Colombian love for cycling; nearby hills offer routes for riders.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy trails and nature runs in the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Génova.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries can offer vegetarian options; ask for dishes with beans, grains, plantains, and local vegetables; consider requesting 'sin carne' or 'opciones vegetarianas'.