Things To Do
in Linares
Linares is a small Andean town in Colombia, perched among green valleys and rolling hills at approximately 1.35°N, 77.5333°W. Visitors are greeted by warm, friendly locals, colorful streets, and a relaxed pace that makes wandering easy. The surrounding countryside is rich with coffee farms, fruit plantations, and scenic viewpoints that reward slow exploration.
While rooted in agriculture, Linares is increasingly welcoming travelers with farm stays, local markets, and cultural events.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Linares and settle into your accommodation with a warm cup of Colombian coffee. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the vibrant local culture and architecture. Visit Plaza de Bolívar for a glimpse of the town's history and to admire the surrounding colonial buildings.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa. Afterward, head to the Museo del Oro to explore fascinating artifacts and learn about the region's rich history. Wander through nearby artisanal shops to pick up unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
Experience Linares' nightlife by dining at a popular restaurant that showcases local culinary talent. Sample some of the famous Colombian arepas while chatting with locals and other travelers. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, appreciating the fresh mountain air and starry sky.
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Parque Natural Los Nevados for stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Participate in a guided hike that introduces you to the breathtaking vistas and allows you to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Keep your camera handy to capture the mesmerizing views along the trails.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene nature of the park, taking in the peaceful sounds around you. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby waterfalls and hot springs, allowing yourself to relax and recharge in the natural beauty. Don't forget to take a dip in the refreshing waters and enjoy the invigorating atmosphere.
Return to Linares and unwind at a local café, sipping on a refreshing juice or coffee while you reflect on the day's adventures. Consider joining a small group for a salsa dancing class, immersing yourself in the rhythm and energy of Colombian music. End your night with a comforting meal, perhaps trying a local specialty you haven't tasted yet.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi start (short ride) | $0.60-1.50 |
| ☕️Cappuccino | $1.50-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, friendly atmosphere and genuine hospitality
- Access to coffee farms and scenic rural landscapes
- Aff resort-friendly prices and authentic regional cuisine
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Smaller town feel may mean fewer big-city amenities
- Hilly terrain can require careful planning for accessibility
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "Me podría ayudar, por favor" - Could you help me, please?
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Linares
Visit one of these nice places.
Old-town square framed by a colonial-era cathedral; ideal for morning light and candid street scenes.
Narrow, painted streets that reveal local life, murals, and daily routines; best during golden hour.
Hilltop viewpoints offering sweeping views of the valley and surrounding farms; great for sunset photography.
Coffee farm photos: rows of coffee plants, processing equipment, and hands-on demonstrations for atmospheric rural shots.
Food in Linares
Linares Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa, often stuffed with cheese or served with hogao, crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
Must-Try!
Hearty stew featuring root vegetables, corn, plantains, and tender meat or chicken, reflective of Tolima’s home-style cooking.
Tamales wrapped in plantain leaves, packed with cornmeal, meat, vegetables, and spices—a comforting regional favorite.
A bountiful platter of beans, rice, avocado, meat or chorizo, plantain, arepa, and other sides—great for tasting a range of local flavors in one dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample arepas, empanadas, fresh fruit, grilled corn, and small plates from local vendors.
Along the pedestrian lanes you’ll find tamales, chontaduro, fried plantains, and other quick bites hot off the grill.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake and a friendly greeting in Spanish go a long way; use usted with elders and show politeness in conversations.
Casual but neat attire is appropriate; modest dress is appreciated in religious or traditional spaces.
Engage in small talk about family and food; conversations are often lively and expressive.
Safety
Tipping in Linares
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. For tour guides or drivers, small tips are appreciated at the end of a trip.
Cash in COP is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many restaurants and shops also take cards. ATMs are common in town; carry some pesos for street vendors and rural visits.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with longer sunny spells and clear skies; ideal for outdoor walks and hillside photography. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat; evenings can be cooler.
Frequent afternoon showers, especially in the shoulder months; carry a lightweight rain jacket and quick-dry footwear. Trails stay green and lush, but can be slippery.
Transition periods with mixed sun and sporadic rain; plan flexible activities and start early to avoid afternoon downpours.
Linares at Night
Hiking in Linares
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic canyon near Ibagué with forested trails and lookout points; offers dramatic valley views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Nearby coffee finca trails with gentle hikes through coffee plantations and opportunities for photography and learning about coffee production.
Airports
How to reach Linares by plane.
Regional airport close to Linares; serves domestic flights and connections to larger hubs.
Major hub in the region with international and domestic flights; reachable by longer road transfer.
Largest international airport in the country; serves as a main gateway for long-haul connections and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditionally involved in coffee, fruits, and crops; strong sense of regional identity.
Young professionals and families who frequent markets, cafés, and cultural events.
Keepers of tradition and local craft, often engaged in markets and community gatherings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and informal matches common in plazas and fields.
Road cycling and mountain biking are popular through the surrounding hills and valleys.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Linares.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose beans, rice, arepas, plantains, cheeses, and fresh vegetables; request egg or cheese toppings instead of meat, and ask for vegetable stews or mushroom dishes when possible.