Things To Do
in La Apartada
La Apartada is a small municipality in northern Colombia's Córdoba Department, set amid tropical lowlands and rolling hills. The town centers around a tight-knit community with rural traditions and a friendly, hospitable spirit. Its lush surroundings—forests, rivers, and farmland—offer a tranquil backdrop for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.
Visitors come for authentic local life, colorful markets, and the sense of slow-paced countryside that defines this corner of the Caribbean region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in La Apartada and enjoy a warm welcome from the locals. Settle into your cozy accommodations while admiring the beautiful surrounding landscape. Then, take a leisurely walk through the town, visiting local shops and markets to get a taste of the vibrant culture.
Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of La Apartada. Visit local artisans and witness traditional crafts being made, providing insight into the community's heritage. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling authentic Colombian cuisine.
Experience the lively atmosphere of the town as the sun sets. Find a charming café or local spot to relax with a cup of coffee or a refreshing drink. Engage with locals and share stories under the starlit sky.
Start your day early with a guided hike through the breathtaking hills surrounding La Apartada. Enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of nature as you trek toward one of the area's stunning waterfalls. Take breaks to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna you encounter along the way.
Upon reaching the waterfall, take a moment to soak in the beauty of the cascading water. Cool off with a refreshing swim or relax by the pool while enjoying a packed lunch amidst nature. Capture beautiful photographs as you revel in this serene environment.
Return to town and unwind after an adventurous day. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery where you can indulge in traditional dishes that reflect the region's flavors. Share tales of your adventure with fellow travelers or locals to connect over shared experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $25-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (city center) | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Autentic cultural experiences away from heavy tourism
- Warm, welcoming communities and affordable prices
- Droud of natural scenery and relaxed pace
- Limited infrastructure in some rural areas
- Fewer English speakers; some signs may be only in Spanish
- Seasonal variability can affect road conditions and activities
- "Hola, buenos días." - Hello, good morning.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias / Muchas gracias." - Thank you / Thank you very much.
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos, por favor." - I’d like a table for two, please.
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Puede recomendar un plato local?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in La Apartada
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, tiled facades, and the church tower provide classic street photography opportunities with locals going about daily routines.
Soft light over calm water and mangrove edges; ideal for golden-hour portraits and landscape shots.
Dusty rural scenes, farm life, and long shadows—great for environmental portraiture and documentary-style imagery.
Vivid colors, fresh produce, and busy vendors capturing the energy of early-morning commerce.
Food in La Apartada
La Apartada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Griddled corn cake served plain or with cheese; a staple snack or breakfast across the region.
Must-Try!
A robust broth-style soup with yucca, plantains, corn, and a choice of meat or fish; comforting and filling.
Freshly fried river fish served with crunchy plantain slices; popular near rivers and markets.
A sweet, fried dough made with banana and cassava; commonly enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Coconut-infused rice often served as a side with fish or stews, adding a tropical note to meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A modest market where locals buy fresh produce, fish, herbs, and ready-to-eat street foods like empanadas and yuca frita.
Casual vendors offering fried plantains, arepa con queso, patacones, and refreshing tropical fruits; great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm 'Buenos días/tardes' goes a long way. Use 'usted' with elders and locals who expect respectful address.
Light, breathable clothing is fine; avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in religious or formal settings.
Peaceful conversations and patience in markets are valued; speak in a calm tone and avoid raising voices.
Many locals enjoy photography, but always ask for consent first, especially in intimate or family settings.
Safety
Tipping in La Apartada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Consider 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small tips to guides, porters, and housekeeping are common in hotels and guesthouses.
In town centers, cash is widely accepted and ATMs are available in larger towns nearby. Card payments may be possible at hotels, some restaurants, and established shops, but rural vendors often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically from December to March with hot, sunny days and minimal rain. Great for outdoor activities and photography, but bring sun protection and plenty of water.
From May through November, with higher humidity and frequent rain showers. Trails can be muddy; plan for rain gear and flexible itineraries.
La Apartada at Night
Hiking in La Apartada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail along the riverbank with opportunities to observe birds, plants, and local wildlife.
A short ascent to a lookout point offering expansive views of fields and forested hills.
Airports
How to reach La Apartada by plane.
The closest sizable airport serving Córdoba and surrounding regions; connects to major Colombian hubs and some international routes. Ground transfer by road to La Apartada takes a few hours, depending on road conditions.
A larger international gateway farther from La Apartada, offering more international flight options; typically used for longer trips or onward connections after regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily families and farmers from Cordobese communities, with Afro-Colombian cultural influences and a coastal Caribbean heritage reflected in language and cuisine.
Smaller communities in surrounding areas contributing to cultural diversity and regional crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local games and informal matches common in town streets and schoolyards.
Rural roads and scenic routes make cycling a favored pastime for both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Apartada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes revolve around plantains, yuca, beans, and rice. Request veggie versions of soups and ask for oil- or ghee-based preparations if you avoid animal fats. In markets, choose fresh vegetables and avoid broths with meat stock.