Things To Do
in Guadalupe
Guadalupe is a small town in southwestern Colombia set in the foothills of the coffee region. It blends colonial charm with lush landscapes and a warm, farming-rooted atmosphere. Visitors can wander local markets, sample regional brews, and use nearby trails to access cloud forests and coffee farms.
The climate remains mild year-round, with a distinct dry and wet season shaping daily plans.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small and charming town of Guadalupe, nestled in the stunning mountains of Santander. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the views of the lush landscape. Spend some time exploring the town's quaint streets, dotted with local shops and friendly residents.
After lunch, visit the picturesque Parque de la Libertad, where you can relax under the shade of trees or try local snacks from nearby vendors. Take a guided tour of the town's historic sites, including the beautiful Church of San Juan Bautista. This is a great time to immerse yourself in the local culture and perhaps learn some of the town's history.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Colombian dishes. Afterward, take a stroll around the town square, where you might catch a glimpse of local music or dance performances. Emmanuel joyfully reflects on the day's experiences while meeting locals and other travelers.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before embarking on an adventure to La Chorrera, one of the tallest waterfalls in Colombia. The hike, which takes about two hours, offers breathtaking scenery, with lush vegetation and the sounds of nature surrounding you as you trek. Capture stunning photographs and appreciate the tranquility of the area.
Arriving at La Chorrera, take some time to marvel at the stunning views and enjoy a picnic lunch near the waterfall. You may take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or relax on the rocks while listening to the cascading water. Afterward, explore the nearby trails and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Return to Guadalupe in the late afternoon, where you can wash up and rest after your hike. Dinner will be a delightful experience at a local eatery, where you can share stories with fellow travelers. End your evening with a calming cup of coffee, perhaps sampling a local variety, while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $20-60 |
| 🛍️Local handicraft | $3-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Approachable locals and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
- Accessible coffee culture with farm-to-cup experiences
- Limited nightlife and fewer luxury options compared to bigger cities
- Rural roads can be bumpy and weather-dependent for some trails
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hable más despacio, por favor." - Please speak more slowly.
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos." - I would like a table for two.
Places to Visit in Guadalupe
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the valley and surrounding hills, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
White facade and classic Caribbean-Colombian church architecture; great for architectural photography in the plaza setting.
Terraced coffee fields on the outskirts of town provide iconic green-and-brown lines and farming life imagery.
Lush river scenery with rock formations and forest backdrop; ideal for nature and long-exposure shots.
Food in Guadalupe
Guadalupe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa often enjoyed warm with cheese or butter, a breakfast or snack staple in the region.
Must-Try!
A hearty, protein-rich plate featuring beans, rice, ground meat or chicharrón, plantain, egg, avocado, and sometimes chorizo.
A comforting, rustic soup with meat, tubers, yuca, and corn, perfect for cooler evenings.
Rice and meat wrapped in plantain leaves, often eaten for lunch or on market days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub to sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and street snacks such as empanadas, arepas, and seasonal fruits.
Casual stands offering quick bites like pasabocas, pastelitos, and fruit cups; great for a casual stroll and bite between activities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake and brief eye contact are standard; use polite forms (usted) with strangers and elders; a warm, friendly tone goes far.
Dress modestly in churches and respectful settings; avoid overly casual attire in sacred spaces and formal venues.
Safety
Tipping in Guadalupe
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, leaving 5–10% if service isn't included is common; for guides or drivers, small tips are appreciated and depend on service quality.
Cash (Colombian peso) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to August typically brings clearer skies and easier hiking conditions, with longer days and more outdoor activity opportunities.
March–May and September–November can bring frequent afternoon showers; pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear, and plan for flexible outdoor times.
Guadalupe at Night
Hiking in Guadalupe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering valley views, forest edges, and opportunities to observe birds and farm life along the path.
A scenic waterfall hike with a refreshing pool area; moderate effort required and best during dry season.
Airports
How to reach Guadalupe by plane.
Primary gateway for the Coffee Triangle; multiple daily flights to major cities; taxis or buses connect to Guadalupe.
Regional airport with connections to Bogotá and other Colombian cities; a common alternative to reach central coffee towns.
Larger international hub a few hours away; useful for long-haul connections or more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo and Afro-Colombian influences with a strong farming and coffee heritage; many residents work in agriculture or family-run businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region shares Colombia’s passion for soccer, with local matches and community leagues common in town spaces and sports clubes.
Hilly terrain and scenic routes make cycling popular among locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guadalupe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted to be vegetarian. Look for beans, rice, plantains, potatoes, and fresh salads; ask for cooking oil and stock to be free of meat and fish.