Things To Do
in Mesetas
Mesetas is a municipality located in the Meta Department of Colombia. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and forests. The town itself is small and peaceful, with a friendly and welcoming community.
Agriculture is a major economic activity in Mesetas, with coffee, rice, and livestock farming being common in the area.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a fresh breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Colombian coffee. Take a walk around the picturesque town to soak in the morning sights.
Visit the local artisanal market to shop for unique souvenirs and crafts made by the local artisans. Enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant that serves authentic Colombian cuisine.
Wind down your day by taking a leisurely stroll through the town plaza, where you can enjoy the local music and vibrant atmosphere. Grab dinner at a nearby eatery that offers a variety of traditional dishes.
Pack your hiking gear and head out to the nearby nature trail to experience the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. The morning sun will be perfect for capturing beautiful photos.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch or visit a local restaurant near the trail’s end to refuel. Take some time to rest before heading out to explore more of the natural beauty.
Return to Mesetas and relax at a local café, enjoying the cool evening breeze. Share stories of your adventure with friends or other travelers you meet.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural landscapes and biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with unique traditions and festivals.
- Ecotourism opportunities, promoting sustainable travel and local economies.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities, making it easy to connect with residents.
- Affordable cost of living and travel compared to other tourist destinations.
- Limited infrastructure and access to some areas, which can hinder transportation.
- Potential safety concerns in certain regions; travelers should research beforehand.
- Language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken outside major tourist areas.
- Health risks, including tropical diseases, may require vaccinations or precautions.
- Seasonal weather challenges, including rain and humidity, could affect travel plans.
Best Activities in Mesetas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the Los Nuevos Páramos, featuring unique flora and fauna, beautiful vistas, and the opportunity to experience Colombia's high-altitude ecosystems.
Mesetas is home to a variety of bird species. Join guided tours to observe and photograph the diverse birdlife in their natural habitat, including many endemic species typical of the region.
Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions, crafts, and agriculture. Participating in community-based activities offers insight into the rich cultural heritage of Mesetas.
Enjoy a canoeing adventure on the scenic Guayuriba River, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of nature, perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
Experience the beauty of nature by camping in the Andean forests near Mesetas. Ideal for stargazing and enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mesetas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mesetas
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
This natural park features beautiful landscapes and trails, providing numerous spots for photography amidst lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
A scenic hill that offers breathtaking views of the Mesetas area and the opportunity to capture the beauty of the region's unique topography.
The town itself has charming streets and colorful houses, perfect for capturing local life and culture in photos.
A lesser-known lookout point that offers quiet and unobstructed views of the landscape, ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking solitude.
Food in Mesetas
Mesetas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken and potato soup, flavored with guasca herb and Colombian spices, often served with avocado, corn, and cream. Try it at La Casona de Leo, a popular family-owned restaurant in Mesetas.
Must-Try!
A comforting soup made with a variety of meats, root vegetables, and herbs. Sample this savory dish at Mercado Campesino, a local farmers' market.
A quintessential Colombian platter featuring grilled steak, chorizo, chicharrón, rice, red beans, avocado, plantain, and arepa. Don Pedro Restaurante is known for preparing an exquisite Bandeja Paisa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mesetas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local snacks, and authentic street food. Don't miss trying arepas, empanadas, and freshly squeezed tropical fruit juices here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mesetas, Colombians generally value personal space, so it's important to be mindful of how close you stand to others when conversing. Maintain a respectful distance, especially during initial encounters.
Greetings are important in Colombian culture. A handshake is common, and using polite phrases such as 'buenos días' (good morning) or 'buenas tardes' (good afternoon) shows respect. Always address people using their titles (Señor, Señora) unless invited to do otherwise.
Dress modestly and appropriately for different occasions. While casual attire is accepted in everyday settings, wearing neat and presentable clothing is important, especially when visiting someone’s home or attending a formal event.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mesetas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mesetas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mesetas, Colombia, tipping is generally appreciated, although it is not always expected. It is common to round up the bill at restaurants or leave a small percentage (10% to 15%) as a tip, especially in higher-end establishments. However, for local eateries, tipping might be less formal, and small change can often suffice.
Payment methods in Mesetas predominantly include cash, as many establishments may not have the capability to accept credit or debit cards. The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Markets and small vendors usually prefer cash transactions. In urban areas and larger establishments, credit cards are becoming more accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mesetas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Mesetas, as rainfall is minimal and the weather is generally dry and sunny. Expect pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes.
During this period, the weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain. It's a good time for fewer crowds, but visitors should be prepared for sudden showers. The scenery remains lush and vibrant.
Expect frequent rain and cooler temperatures during this season. While this may deter some visitors, the region's natural beauty flourishes, and it’s a quieter time for those who appreciate solitude and vibrant greenery. Some outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Mesetas at Night
Hiking in Mesetas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast natural park featuring high-altitude moorlands and unique flora, offering a variety of hiking trails and stunning views.
Known for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, this area offers diverse hiking routes that lead through lush jungles and scenic mountains.
A famous waterfall hike near La Calera, offering beautiful scenery and a refreshing experience for hikers.
A nature park with well-maintained trails and various ecosystems, perfect for nature walks and viewing flora and fauna.
Home to various snow-capped volcanoes and remarkable landscapes, this park offers challenging trails for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mesetas through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mesetas by plane.
Located in Bogotá, this is the largest and busiest airport in Colombia, approximately 100 kilometers from Mesetas.
Located in Medellín, this international airport is around 180 kilometers from Mesetas and serves as a major gateway to the region.
Situated in Cali, this airport is about 300 kilometers from Mesetas, providing international flights across various destinations.
Located near Santa Marta, this airport is approximately 600 kilometers away from Mesetas and facilitates international travel.
This airport is located in Cartagena and is around 700 kilometers from Mesetas, offering various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A demographic group resulting from the mixing of European and Indigenous ancestry, constituting the majority of the population.
Groups native to the region, with cultural practices and languages that are distinct from the mestizo majority.
Individuals of African descent who have unique cultural contributions, often residing in specific regions including parts of Mesetas.
People of European descent, typically found in smaller numbers compared to mestizos and indigenous populations.
Including various ethnicities and groups that may not fit into the larger categories above, often with smaller populations.
The Soul of Mesetas
Discover the essence of Mesetas through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Mesetas, with local teams participating in regional leagues and community tournaments.
Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport that involves throwing metal discs at a target filled with gunpowder, resulting in explosive fun.
Cycling is popular in Mesetas, with scenic routes attracting both recreational cyclists and competitive riders.
Volleyball is played recreationally on beaches and in parks, promoting community engagement and active lifestyles.
Basketball has a growing fan base, with school teams and informal games being common among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mesetas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is an integral part of Colombian cuisine, many restaurants in Mesetas offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Look for options like lentil stew, grilled vegetables, and tropical fruit salads.
Celiacs and gluten-sensitive visitors can enjoy corn-based arepas, rice dishes, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits which are naturally gluten-free. Informing the staff about gluten intolerances will ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mesetas with these cultural adventures.
