Things To Do
in Piedecuesta
Piedecuesta, Colombia is a welcoming town just east of Bucaramanga in the Santander region. It sits among rolling hills and river valleys, offering a mix of colonial charm and modern conveniences. The town serves as a gateway to nature reserves, scenic viewpoints, and easy day trips in the wider Santander area.
Visitors enjoy a friendly pace, vibrant plazas, and local markets that reflect the warmth of the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Piedecuesta, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Plaza de Piedecuesta, where you can soak in the local atmosphere and maybe chat with friendly residents.
For lunch, indulge in a hearty meal at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional dishes like bandeja paisa. Post-lunch, explore the local shops and artisan markets, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs to take home. As the afternoon sun shines, consider visiting the nearby Santuario de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, a beautiful church with stunning views.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery to try some delicious empanadas paired with a refreshing drink. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the town square, enjoying the evening ambiance and perhaps catching a local music performance. Wrap up your night at a cozy café, sipping on hot chocolate while reflecting on your day.
Set off early for a day trip to Parque Nacional del Chicamocha, where breathtaking views await. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then make your way to the park, stopping along the way for scenic photos. Once at the park, take the cable car ride to the top, marveling at the majestic Chicamocha Canyon below.
After soaking in the views, embark on one of the park's hiking trails, where you can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, with panoramic views of the canyon as your backdrop. Post-lunch, consider trying out some adventurous activities like paragliding or zip-lining for an adrenaline rush.
As the day winds down, return to Piedecuesta and choose a restaurant for a well-deserved dinner. Reflect on your adventurous day while enjoying local dishes, perhaps trying sancocho for a comforting meal. End your evening with a stroll under the stars, appreciating the tranquil ambiance of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-7 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and safe, walkable center
- Good base for day trips to nature and nearby towns
- Pleasant weather due to altitude
- Cost of living is affordable
- Limited nightlife in Piedecuesta itself
- Smaller tourism infrastructure than Bucaramanga
- Can experience heavy traffic during peak hours
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Piedecuesta
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square with colonial buildings and a lively crowd; ideal for street photography and sunset shots.
Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills.
Tree-lined riverfront with locals strolling, benches, and soft evening light—great for candid photography.
Food in Piedecuesta
Piedecuesta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick cornmeal arepa often served with cheese or hogao, a staple in the region.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup featuring corn, beans, pork, and plantains—perfect for a comforting meal.
A regional platter with beans, rice, chicharrón, avocado, plantain, and a fried egg; portions run generous.
Fried edible ants, a traditional snack often found at festivals and in markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls near the city center offering arepas, empanadas, tamales, fresh fruit, and juices.
Chuzos, buñuelos, and other quick bites along pedestrian streets—great for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm hello and a handshake; use formal 'usted' with elders and acquaintances you don’t know well.
Polite conversation, modest dress in religious places, and a patient, friendly demeanor are valued in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Piedecuesta
Ensure a smooth experience
In many restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. Taxi drivers rarely expect tips, but rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted, and credit/debit cards are common in urban eateries and shops. Mobile payments and bank transfers are increasingly available in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with long, sunny days. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy outdoor activities from mid-morning to late afternoon.
Afternoons are prone to showers. Pack a light rain jacket and choose morning hours for outdoor plans when possible.
Piedecuesta at Night
Hiking in Piedecuesta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic hikes with viewpoints over the valley, suitable for a half-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Piedecuesta by plane.
Main airport serving Bucaramanga and the metropolitan area, about 25-40 minutes from Piedecuesta by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of university-affiliated students from Bucaramanga and local residents; culturally diverse and welcoming.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; watch local matches or join a friendly game in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Piedecuesta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places can prepare vegetarian options; look for beans, queso, vegetables, and plantains. Avoid meat broths in soups and ask for vegetable-based dishes when needed.