Things To Do
in La Plata
La Plata is a small Andean town in southwestern Colombia, set amid rolling hills and lush valleys. It serves as a convenient base for exploring rural huilense culture, coffee farms, and colonial plazas. The town exudes a relaxed pace, vibrant colors, and friendly locals who welcome visitors to wander its streets.
Nearby landscapes offer rewarding day trips for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Historic Center of La Plata, admiring the stunning colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Cathedral of La Plata, known for its intricate designs and impressive stained glass. Enjoy a cup of Colombian coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch, head to the Museo de La Plata, renowned for its fascinating displays of natural history and cultural artifacts. Spend time exploring the lush surroundings of the Parque Saavedra, a perfect spot for relaxation or a casual walk. This area is alive with local vendors and performers, adding to the cultural experience.
For dinner, immerse yourself in the local gastronomy by tasting traditional dishes at a restaurant in the heart of the city. As night falls, consider attending a cultural event or concert at the Teatro Argentino, where you can indulge in the local arts scene. Conclude the evening with a walk around the illuminated city center, enjoying the lively ambiance.
Drive to Parque Nacional Quebrada del Cóndor early in the morning to experience the breathtaking natural scenery. Go hiking along the trails to discover diverse flora and fauna, and keep an eye out for the majestic condors gliding above. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and reconnect with nature as you explore this beautiful park.
Enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic spot within the park, taking in the peaceful surroundings. Continue your trek to witness stunning waterfalls and panoramic views of the Andes. Engage with local guides to learn about the area's ecological significance and indigenous history.
Return to La Plata in the evening, reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty and adventure. Dine at a local restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine, where you can savor the flavors of the region. End the day with an optional nightcap at a nearby bar, enjoying the local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚎Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming vibe
- Gateway to lush rural landscapes and coffee culture
- Affordable food and lodging
- Compact town layout for easy exploration
- Limited nightlife and fewer English speakers
- Occasional road quality issues in rural areas
- Smaller infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- Fewer direct international flight options to La Plata
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Se acepta tarjeta?" - Is card payment accepted?
- "Ayúdeme" - Help me
Places to Visit in La Plata
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial facades, a lively plaza, and the grand church make for classic photography backdrops, especially at dawn or dusk.
A hilltop viewpoint offering expansive views over the town and surrounding valleys, ideal for sunset shots.
Golden-hour reflections and river activity provide mood-filled riverbank photography opportunities.
Narrow streets, flower-filled balconies, and vibrant walls offer charming street photography moments.
Food in La Plata
La Plata Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty corn-based soup with pork, plantain, cassava, and herbs; a regional specialty commonly found in markets and homestyle eateries.
Must-Try!
A generous platter featuring beans, rice, avocado, ground meat or pork, fried plantain, chicharrón, and a fried egg.
A comforting chicken soup with corn on the cob, yuca, plantain, and herbs.
Sweet corn arepa often served with cheese; great as a snack or side dish.
Tamales filled with pork, vegetables, and corn dough, traditionally enjoyed on market days or special occasions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, meats, prepared foods, and regional snacks; a great place to taste everyday huilense fare.
Casual spots serving arepas, empanadas, and fresh fruit juices—perfect for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; use formal 'usted' with strangers. People often greet with a warm 'buenos días/tardes.'
Dress modestly in religious or traditional settings; avoid loud behavior in public spaces and show courtesy in conversations.
Ask permission when photographing people or private spaces; some locals appreciate a quick verbal ask before taking pictures.
Safety
Tipping in La Plata
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included; small cafés and street vendors generally do not expect tips.
Cash (Colombian pesos) and cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; carry some cash for markets and street vendors. ATMs are available in town, and mobile payment apps are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically drier and warmer days with clearer skies; good for outdoor exploring and photography, but evenings can be pleasantly cool due to elevation.
Expect heavier tropical showers, usually in the afternoons or evenings; plan indoor activities or light rain gear for outdoor walks.
La Plata at Night
Hiking in La Plata
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike to a hilltop cross with views over the town and valley.
Short waterfall hikes in nearby veredas with forested trails and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach La Plata by plane.
Main gateway to Huila; domestic flights connect to Bogotá and Medellín; typically a 2–3 hour drive to La Plata depending on road conditions.
Regional airport serving southern Huila; useful for shorter trips and reaching areas further from Neiva; drive time to La Plata varies around 1.5–2.5 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young professionals and students who live in the town center.
Families and communities working in surrounding farmlands, especially coffee and fruit crops.
People moving to the area for education or work opportunities in nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Colombia’s most popular sport; local matches and impromptu games are common in parks and schools.
Open-road cycling and scenic rides through farmland and hills are popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Plata.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; ask for vegetable-based stews, beans, rice, arepas, and salads. Restaurants can sometimes adapt meat dishes into vegetarian versions with notice.