Things To Do
in Nueva Granada
Nueva Granada was a historical region in northern South America that later became part of Colombia. It was named after the old Viceroyalty of New Granada during the Spanish colonial period. Nueva Granada played a significant role in the independence movements of the early 19th century.
Today, it is known as Colombia and is a diverse and vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage.
- "¿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): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Gold Museum to marvel at the extensive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. Afterward, take a stroll in the historic La Candelaria district, enjoying its colorful streets and colonial architecture.
Visit Monserrate for a breathtaking view of the city from above. Enjoy lunch in the area and explore the local artisan shops.
Dine at a traditional Colombian restaurant to experience local flavors. End your evening with a relaxing walk through Parque Simón Bolívar.
Set off early to Chingaza National Park, a stunning ecosystem rich in biodiversity. Spend the morning hiking and admiring the breathtaking landscapes.
Have a packed lunch amidst nature and continue exploring the trails. Look out for unique wildlife native to the region.
Head back to Bogotá for a cozy dinner in a spot with local cuisine. Reflect on the day’s adventures over a warm drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including colonial architecture and indigenous influences.
- Diverse ecosystems and stunning natural landscapes, such as the Andes mountains and Amazon rainforest.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and coffee production.
- Mild climate and warm temperatures throughout the year.
- Access to vibrant cities with modern amenities, vibrancy, and nightlife.
- Safety concerns related to crime and drug trafficking in certain areas.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as poor road conditions and limited public transportation options in rural areas.
- Social inequality and poverty in some regions, affecting quality of life for residents.
- Environmental issues, including deforestation and pollution in urban areas.
- Political instability and occasional civil unrest impacting daily life and economic conditions.
Best Activities in Nueva Granada
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and unique flora and fauna.
Spot a variety of bird species among the diverse ecosystems, including Andean condors and hummingbirds.
Experience thrilling rapids and scenic views while navigating this iconic river.
Ride through charming coffee plantations and picturesque villages while enjoying the region's rich cultural heritage.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nueva Granada with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nueva Granada
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the top of the El Peñol Rock for stunning panoramic views of the lakes and islands below.
Take a cable car or hike to the top of Cerro Monserrate for breathtaking views of Bogotá.
Explore the lush cloud forest and capture the iconic wax palms, the tallest palm trees in the world.
Food in Nueva Granada
Nueva Granada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, corn, and a herb called guascas. It's traditionally served with avocado, capers, and cream. For an authentic experience, head to La Puerta Falsa in Bogotá.
Must-Try!
A hearty platter featuring red beans, pork belly, ground meat, chorizo, arepa, avocado, rice, and a fried egg. Try this iconic dish at Mora Castilla in Medellín.
A roasted pig stuffed with peas, rice, and spices. It's a festive dish often enjoyed during special occasions. La Maria in Tolima is renowned for its delicious lechona.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nueva Granada better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in Bogotá is a treasure trove of fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to sample empanadas, arepas, and exotic fruits here.
Located in Medellín, this street is famous for its vibrant street food scene. Enjoy delicacies like arepas, patacones, and grilled meats from the numerous food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nueva Granada, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close or making physical contact when interacting with others.
Using formal greetings such as 'Buenos días' (good morning), 'Buenas tardes' (good afternoon), and 'Buenas noches' (good evening) is a sign of respect in Colombian culture.
Respecting elders is a key cultural norm in Nueva Granada, and it is important to address older individuals with honorific titles such as 'señor' (sir) and 'señora' (madam).
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nueva Granada with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nueva Granada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not generally expected in Nueva Granada, Colombia. However, in upscale restaurants or for exceptional service, a tip of 10% of the bill may be appreciated.
Payment in Nueva Granada, Colombia is commonly done in cash, particularly for smaller transactions. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in urban areas and tourist destinations. It's advisable to carry some cash for purchases in more rural or remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nueva Granada.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is a great time to visit Nueva Granada as the weather is sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The popular Carnaval de Barranquilla also takes place during this time.
The rainy season in Nueva Granada is characterized by frequent downpours, so outdoor activities may be limited. However, this is a good time to experience the lush greenery and enjoy lower tourist crowds. The Medellin Flower Festival is a major attraction during this season.
Nueva Granada at Night
Hiking in Nueva Granada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national park located northeast of Bogotá, Chingaza is known for its diverse ecosystems, beautiful lagoons, and stunning landscapes. It offers several hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
Located within the municipality of La Calera, this hiking spot features scenic routes that lead through beautiful natural areas, providing views of the Andean mountains and the surrounding landscape.
This protected area is the largest páramo ecosystem in the world, offering unique biodiversity and stunning vistas. Hikers can explore the various trails that wind through the high-altitude wetlands.
A popular hiking spot known for its lush vegetation and rich wildlife. The trail leads to beautiful waterfalls and is accessible from nearby towns in the Nueva Granada region.
A famous hill in Bogotá offering breathtaking views of the city. There are hiking trails that lead to the top, and the area is also home to a historic church and beautiful gardens.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nueva Granada through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nueva Granada by plane.
Located in Bogotá, approximately 12 km from Nueva Granada, it is Colombia's largest and busiest airport, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Situated in Rionegro, near Medellín, this airport is about 200 km from Nueva Granada and is a major hub for international flights to and from Colombia.
Located in Palmira, about 300 km from Nueva Granada, this airport serves the city of Cali and its surroundings, offering international connections.
Approximately 650 km from Nueva Granada, this airport serves Cartagena and is one of the principal international gateways to the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
Located in Santa Marta, about 700 km from Nueva Granada, this airport provides international flights to various destinations in the region and is one of Colombia's oldest airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Nueva Granada, composed of individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
Various groups including the Muisca, Embera, and others who have inhabited the region long before colonial times.
People of African descent, which includes descendants of enslaved Africans brought during the colonial period.
Individuals of European descent, primarily Spanish ancestry, who settled in the region during and after the colonial era.
Includes various smaller communities such as Romani, Middle Eastern descendants, and other immigrant populations.
The Soul of Nueva Granada
Discover the essence of Nueva Granada through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Nueva Granada, Colombia, with a strong following across the country. The Colombian Professional Football League attracts millions of fans, and the national team has achieved international recognition.
Cycling is highly popular in Colombia, particularly in Nueva Granada. The country has produced many world-class cyclists, and events like the Tour de France have seen Colombian participants excel.
Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport that involves throwing metal discs at a target filled with gunpowder. It's a popular recreational activity, especially in rural areas.
Baseball has a notable following in some regions of Colombia, particularly on the Caribbean coast. However, its popularity in Nueva Granada is growing with increasing participation at youth and amateur levels.
Basketball is gaining traction in Colombia, with urban areas in Nueva Granada seeing a rise in participation and interest in the sport among youth.
Volleyball is popular among women in Nueva Granada, with many schools and community teams participating in local leagues and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nueva Granada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Colombian cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Look for options like plantain-based dishes, heart of palm ceviche, and hearty vegetable soups.
In major cities like Bogotá and Medellín, it's increasingly common to find gluten-free menus and dedicated establishments offering dishes made from corn, yuca, and other gluten-free ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nueva Granada with these cultural adventures.
