Things To Do
in Honda
Situated along the Magdalena River in Tolima, Honda is a historic river town with a relaxed pace. Its colorful colonial houses, breezy riverfront promenades, and a simple, welcoming vibe characterize the city. The town serves as a gateway to rural Tolima, offering culture, markets, and easy day trips into nearby hills and coffee country landscapes.
Locals are friendly and prices are affordable, making Honda a welcoming stop for travelers seeking authentic small-city Colombia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Honda, check into your cozy hotel and take some time to freshen up. Stroll around the picturesque streets with their charming colonial architecture, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the local market and sample some delicious local fruits.
Take a scenic boat ride along the Magdalena River, marveling at the lush scenery and unique wildlife. Visit the historic Puente de Occidente, a beautiful hanging bridge that offers fantastic views of the river below. Capture photos of this iconic landmark while enjoying the serenity of the surroundings.
As the sun sets, dine at a riverside restaurant where you can savor traditional Colombian dishes. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and share stories about your journey. End the night with a casual walk along the riverside to relax and reflect on your day.
Start your day with a visit to the local coffee plantations, where you can learn about the coffee-making process. Engage with local farmers and discover the unique flavors of Honda's coffee. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee brewed right from the source.
Take part in a cultural workshop where you can learn about traditional crafts such as pottery or weaving. This hands-on experience will give you insight into the rich history and artistic expressions of the region. Chat with the artisans and gain a deeper appreciation for their work.
Visit the Plaza de Mercado, where locals gather for food and socializing. Experience a lively atmosphere with live music and delicious street food. Savor the flavor of the region with some local specialties and perhaps join a spontaneous dance with the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Souvenir item | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Riverfront charm and colonial architecture
- Affordable prices and friendly locals
- Accessible day trips to rural Tolima
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Transportation to and from rural areas can be irregular
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Buenos días / Buenas tardes" - Good morning / Good afternoon
Places to Visit in Honda
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on the river, boats, and palm-lined banks provide warm, reflective scenes for wide shots and silhouettes.
Cobblestone streets and pastel facades with wooden balconies offer classic street photography opportunities.
Eyeline shots of the Magdalena from viewpoints around the bridge area capture the city’s relationship with the water.
Quiet, atmospheric scenes of boats, nets, and the daily rhythm of port life before crowds gather.
Food in Honda
Honda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Corn dough stuffed with pork or chicken, vegetables, and plantain, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Must-Try!
A thick, savory stew with meat (often chicken or beef), yuca, plantain, corn, and herbs.
Crispy fried plantain slices served with hogao (savory tomato-onion sauce); a popular street-side snack.
Thick, fluffy corn arepa characteristic of Tolima, enjoyed with cheese, eggs, or as a side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market near the river offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, arepas, empanadas, and other local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and eye contact. Use usted or señor/señora with elders and in formal settings.
Conversations are friendly and warm; avoid loud, confrontational talk in public spaces and show interest in local culture and food.
Safety
Tipping in Honda
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is not included. For taxis or street food, rounding up is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted, and many establishments accept debit/credit cards. ATMs are common in town centers, but small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny days with low rainfall; excellent for outdoor exploration and riverfront photography. Nights can be pleasantly cool near the water; bring a light jacket.
Afternoon showers and higher humidity are common; pack a compact rain jacket and quick-dry clothing. River levels may rise slightly, making some riverside trails more scenic but slick.
Honda at Night
Hiking in Honda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the river with birdwatching opportunities and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Honda by plane.
Bogotá’s main international hub; a common entry point for travelers continuing to Honda, with ground travel taking several hours depending on traffic and route.
Small domestic airport serving Ibagué; closer to Honda for regional flights and quick connections when available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who live along the Magdalena and rely on fishing, boating, and river commerce.
People who work in town centers or study in nearby cities, contributing to a youthful, dynamic local culture.
National and international travelers exploring Honda’s riverfront charm and Tolima’s landscapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in Colombia, enjoyed at amateur leagues and local games around town.
Common in schools, clubs, and community centers; often played in public courts and gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Honda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes are meat-based; look for bean stews, rice and beans, plantains, yuca, and salads. When ordering, ask for no meat broth or lard and request plant-based options when available.