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

day 1
Arrival and Explore Local Culture
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature Hike and Waterfall Adventure
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔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.

Main Plaza and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario

Colorful storefronts, tiled facades, and the church tower provide classic street photography opportunities with locals going about daily routines.

Río Sinú riverside at sunset

Soft light over calm water and mangrove edges; ideal for golden-hour portraits and landscape shots.

Rural roadways with tall ceiba and cacao trees

Dusty rural scenes, farm life, and long shadows—great for environmental portraiture and documentary-style imagery.

Local market stalls at dawn

Vivid colors, fresh produce, and busy vendors capturing the energy of early-morning commerce.

Culinary Guide

Food in La Apartada

La Apartada’s cuisine reflects a Caribbean-Colombian influence: hearty staples, fresh river fish, plantains, yuca, coconuts, and garden herbs cooked in simple, flavorful ways. Dishes are often prepared with ingredients sourced from nearby farms, producing satisfying meals that highlight seasonality and locality.

La Apartada Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepa de maíz

Griddled corn cake served plain or with cheese; a staple snack or breakfast across the region.

Must-Try!

Sancocho costeño

A robust broth-style soup with yucca, plantains, corn, and a choice of meat or fish; comforting and filling.

Pescado frito con patacones

Freshly fried river fish served with crunchy plantain slices; popular near rivers and markets.

Mandoca

A sweet, fried dough made with banana and cassava; commonly enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Arroz con coco

Coconut-infused rice often served as a side with fish or stews, adding a tropical note to meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de La Apartada

A modest market where locals buy fresh produce, fish, herbs, and ready-to-eat street foods like empanadas and yuca frita.

Street stalls near the plaza

Casual vendors offering fried plantains, arepa con queso, patacones, and refreshing tropical fruits; great for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is tropical and humid year-round, with warm daytime temperatures and cooler evenings. Expect higher humidity during thewet season, with frequent rain showers, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. Overall, temperatures typically range from the low 70s to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 22-30°C), varying with elevation and cloud cover.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet everyone politely

A warm 'Buenos días/tardes' goes a long way. Use 'usted' with elders and locals who expect respectful address.

Dress modestly in public spaces

Light, breathable clothing is fine; avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in religious or formal settings.

Respect personal space and crowds

Peaceful conversations and patience in markets are valued; speak in a calm tone and avoid raising voices.

Ask before taking photos of people

Many locals enjoy photography, but always ask for consent first, especially in intimate or family settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist hotspots. Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing options, keep valuables secure, and avoid isolated areas after dark. If venturing into rural or forested areas, go with a local guide and inform someone of your plans. Have emergency contacts and a basic first-aid kit handy.

Tipping in La Apartada

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

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.

Payment Methods

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...

Dry Season

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.

Wet Season

From May through November, with higher humidity and frequent rain showers. Trails can be muddy; plan for rain gear and flexible itineraries.

Nightlife Guide

La Apartada at Night

La Apartada offers a modest nightlife scene centered on family-friendly bars and social gatherings. Expect live local music or vallenato-inspired tunes in some venues, with casual evenings that emphasize conversation and dancing in community spaces rather than high-energy clubs. Small-town hospitality shines after dark, and late dinners at local eateries are common in neighborhoods near the plaza.

Hiking in La Apartada

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riverside Nature Walk

A gentle trail along the riverbank with opportunities to observe birds, plants, and local wildlife.

Cerro Lookout Trail

A short ascent to a lookout point offering expansive views of fields and forested hills.

Airports

How to reach La Apartada by plane.

Montería - Los Garzones International Airport (MTR)

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.

Cartagena de Indias - Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG)

A larger international gateway farther from La Apartada, offering more international flight options; typically used for longer trips or onward connections after regional travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is fairly walkable, with most sights and markets within a short distance of the plaza. Sidewalks can be uneven and some streets may be busy with traffic, so watch your step. For broader exploration beyond the town core, local taxis or short rides are common, as some rural routes are not easily navigable on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Primarily families and farmers from Cordobese communities, with Afro-Colombian cultural influences and a coastal Caribbean heritage reflected in language and cuisine.

Indigenous and migrant communities

Smaller communities in surrounding areas contributing to cultural diversity and regional crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local games and informal matches common in town streets and schoolyards.

Ciclismo recreativo

Rural roads and scenic routes make cycling a favored pastime for both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center can be lively during market days, with pedestrians mixing with local vehicles. Outside town, road conditions vary; some rural routes may be unpaved or narrow. Public transport options are limited, so taxis or car hires are common for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting La Apartada.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

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.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access centers around regional clinics and small hospitals in Córdoba department towns. Basic medical services, essential medicines, and emergency care are available in larger towns nearby; for serious or specialized care, residents typically travel to Montería or major cities with larger hospitals. It’s wise to carry basic medications and travel insurance that includes medical evacuation if traveling in remote areas.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide