Things To Do
in Mocoa
Mocoa is the capital city of Colombia's Putumayo Department, nestled in the Amazonian foothills along the Putumayo River. It serves as a gateway to jungle adventures, waterfalls, and culturally rich communities. The city has a warm, welcoming vibe with markets, street food, and a mix of Indigenous, Afro-Colombian, and mestizo influences.
Visitors come to explore nature, learn about resilience after natural disasters, and experience vibrant river life and local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the central plaza, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Mocoa. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the streets, admiring the colorful colonial architecture.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo del Oro to learn about the rich indigenous history of the region. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste local delicacies such as sancocho and patacones. Afterward, head to the scenic viewpoint at Puente del Río Mocoa for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the plaza to experience the local culture as street performers entertain the crowds. Choose a quaint restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh river fish and a variety of tropical fruits. Take a peaceful evening stroll, enjoying the cool breeze and the sounds of the night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an adventure to the stunning Fin del Mundo waterfall. The hike to the waterfall takes you through lush tropical forests, filled with vibrant flora and fauna. Upon arrival, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty and the sound of the cascading water.
Spend your afternoon swimming in the refreshing natural pools formed by the waterfall, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the lush surroundings, providing a perfect opportunity to relax and recharge. Afterward, explore the nearby trails to uncover hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
Return to Mocoa as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a traditional Colombian dinner at a local eatery, sampling dishes like bandeja paisa. Cap off the night by mingling with locals in a nearby bar, sipping on aguardiente while listening to live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within city | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible jungle experiences and river-based activities
- Warm, welcoming locals and affordable travel
- Rich cultural influences from Indigenous, Afro-Colombian, and mestizo communities
- Relatively low-cost food and lodging options
- Good base for exploring southern Colombia’s Amazonian landscapes
- Safety concerns in some areas; travel with guides and current local advice
- Limited infrastructure outside the city center
- Seasonal flooding and heavy rains can disrupt travel plans
- Healthcare facilities are basic in rural areas; plan accordingly
- Language barriers may exist for non-Spanish speakers in remote spots
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Sí / No" - Yes / No
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
- "¿Qué recomiendas?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Mocoa
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide, glassy river with golden light during golden hour, perfect for silhouettes of fishermen and palm-lined banks.
Vibrant markets, colonial-inspired buildings, and street-life chaos and charm provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Ridge viewpoints above the city offering panoramic shots of the river bend and surrounding green valleys.
Candid portraits of vendors, families, and daily routines with abundant fruit stalls and textiles.
Food in Mocoa
Mocoa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried river fish served with plantain chips and lime; a common, simple fisherman’s staple.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish soup with yuca, plantains, and corn, often enjoyed with lime and cilantro.
Rice cooked with coconut milk paired with fish, a flavorful Amazonian-meets-coastal fusion dish.
Arepas (corn cakes) and yuca frita are frequent accompaniments across many meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market stalls with tropical fruits (pitahaya, maracuyá, mamey), fresh herbs, yuca, plantains, and street-side snacks.
Casual spots along promenades offering empanadas, chontaduro with miel, fresh fruit juices, and light bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm 'buenos días/tardes' and a handshake or cheek kiss among friends. Use polite language and show patience in service interactions.
Ask before photographing people, especially in traditional or indigenous contexts, and always thank participants for their time.
Dress modestly in public spaces; avoid loud or disruptive behavior, particularly in markets or religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Mocoa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; consider 5-10% in restaurants if service is good and not already included in the bill. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; many mid-range places accept cards. ATMs are available in the city center; keep some local currency for street vendors and rural trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically drier and easier for outdoor and city exploration; days are hot and sunny, but occasional showers can occur. Pack lightweight clothing, sun protection, and sturdy footwear for urban walks.
Frequent rain and high humidity; rivers rise, ground can be slippery, and travel may be slower. Bring a rain jacket, waterproof bag, and quick-drying clothing; expect lush, vibrant scenery.
Mocoa at Night
Hiking in Mocoa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes through river valleys and forest edges offering wildlife and plant diversity.
Elevated trails with panoramic views of the Putumayo basin and surrounding green hills.
Airports
How to reach Mocoa by plane.
Small regional airport serving the city with domestic flights to Bogotá and other Colombian cities; schedules vary by season.
Major international hub in Colombia; most travelers connect here for onward domestic connections to Mocoa and other cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The city reflects a blend of mestizo and Afro-Colombian influences, with diverse languages, foods, and cultural practices.
Indigenous communities contribute traditional crafts, songs, and languages to the cultural landscape; respectful engagement is encouraged.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia, with local games and informal play in parks and schools.
Common in urban schools and community centers; casual leagues and pickup games are frequent.
Popular on beaches and riverside areas; often played in parks and camps.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mocoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes center on tubers, beans, and vegetables; look for arepas, salads, soups, and yuca-based plates; ask for no fish or meat and request 'sin carne' or 'sin pollo' when ordering.