Things To Do
in La Argentina
La Argentina is a small highland town in the Andean foothills of Antioquia, Colombia, known for its terraced hills, coffee farms, and warm, welcoming locals. The streets are painted with vibrant colors, and the central plaza buzzes with local markets, music, and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee. Visitors experience a tranquil rural atmosphere, with colonial architecture, hillside viewpoints, and farms that invite you to slow down and savor the coffee culture.
Though off the typical tourist path, La Argentina rewards curious travelers with authentic Colombian hospitality, dramatic landscapes, and a gateway to cloud forests.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Dorado International Airport and take a taxi to your accommodation in the historic La Candelaria district. Settle in and enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, sampling dishes such as arepas and empanadas. Explore the colorful streets of La Candelaria filled with street art and historic buildings.
Visit the impressive Gold Museum, which showcases pre-Columbian artifacts and offers insights into Colombia's rich history. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll to Plaza Bolívar, the city's main square surrounded by significant buildings like the Cathedral and the Capitol. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, tasting local flavors.
As the sun sets, head to Monserrate, a mountain offering breathtaking views of Bogotá. Take the funicular to the top and watch the city light up while savoring a dinner of traditional dishes at the restaurant. Wrap up the day by experiencing Bogotá's vibrant nightlife, possibly catching a live music show.
After breakfast, take a guided walking tour of La Candelaria, learning about the history and architecture of the district. Discover hidden gems such as the Botero Museum and the inviting streets filled with colonial buildings. Don't forget to try a cup of Colombian coffee at one of the many cafes along the way.
For lunch, experience the bustling atmosphere at Usaquén Market, where you can sample street food and purchase local handicrafts. Post-lunch, visit the Museo Nacional de Colombia, which offers diverse exhibits that narrate Colombia's artistic and cultural evolution. This afternoon is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
Enjoy a cultural experience at the Teatro Colón by attending a performance, ranging from opera to ballet, depending on the schedule. After the show, dine at a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. This evening will be memorable as you indulge in fine dining and soak in the ambiance of Bogotá by night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🥗Mid-range lunch or dinner | $8-15 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Colombia experience away from crowds
- Beautiful mountains, coffee culture, and friendly locals
- Reasonable prices and easy access from Medellín
- Good day-trip options for nature lovers
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end amenities
- Occasional travel times longer due to mountain roads
- Smaller medical facilities; require trips to larger cities for some care
- Seasonal rain can affect outdoor plans
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in La Argentina
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping vantage over the valley and rolling cloud forests, especially dramatic at sunrise.
A colonial church framed by a lively plaza, colorful markets and locals going about daily life.
A scenic river trail leading to a picturesque waterfall, perfect for long exposures and reflections.
Fields of coffee plants perched on terraced slopes, ideal for golden-hour portraits among the vines.
Food in La Argentina
La Argentina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A generously stacked plate with beans, rice, plantain, chicharrón and avocado; a must-try at traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Corn cake served with a tomato-onion sauce, a common breakfast or snack in town.
Steamed corn dough with meat and vegetables wrapped in plantain leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, regional snacks, and friendly vendors; try arepas and freshly squeezed naranja.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a handshake or cheek kiss among friends.
Spanish is the main language; learning a few phrases helps in daily interactions.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas; comfortable footwear for hills.
Ask before taking photos of people; support local vendors and small businesses.
Safety
Tipping in La Argentina
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always included; leave 5-10% in restaurants and small coins or a few thousand pesos for taxi drivers or guides if satisfied.
Cash (COP) is widely used; many places also accept debit/credit cards; ATMs are common in town, and mobile payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, pleasant daytime temperatures and excellent conditions for outdoor walks and photography; occasional dust in particularly windy spells.
Afternoon rains are common; mornings are usually drier and good for hiking; carry a light rain shell and protect gear.
Fewer visitors, mild temperatures and lush landscapes; great for budget travelers and wildlife watching.
Local festivals and harvests bring lively plaza scenes, music and special dishes; plan ahead for crowds.
La Argentina at Night
Hiking in La Argentina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike to a ridge with expansive valley views.
Cloud forest trails with birdwatching opportunities and scenic cascades.
Airports
How to reach La Argentina by plane.
Located near Medellín (Rionegro), about 1.5–2.5 hours by road from La Argentina; served by international and domestic flights.
Medellín's domestic airport; closer to the city center and convenient for regional flights; connections to La Argentina require ground transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo and indigenous influences typical of rural Antioquia.
Households involved in small-scale coffee cultivation and agro-tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime, played by locals and in schools.
Hilly terrain makes for scenic routes and amateur races.
Trail running and hiking are popular in the surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Argentina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared meat-free; look for plantains, beans, rice and fresh vegetables; ask for 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano'.