Things To Do
in Planadas
Planadas is a small agricultural town in Tolima, Colombia, nestled in the Andean foothills with open valleys and lush farmlands. The area is known for coffee and other regional crops, creating a scenic rural backdrop for visitors. Friendly locals, colorful streets, and a relaxed pace set the tone for a genuine Colombian countryside experience.
In all seasons, Planadas offers outdoor activities, local markets, and opportunities to connect with traditional Tolima culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Planadas and settle into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Prepare for an exciting adventure by gathering information on nearby attractions.
Explore the charming town, visiting small artisan shops and sampling traditional Colombian street food. Meet local residents who showcase their crafts and stories, immersing yourself in the local culture. Consider an optional guided tour of the surrounding coffee plantations.
Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant known for its hearty Colombian cuisine. Take a stroll through the town square, mingling with locals and perhaps catching a live music performance. As night falls, relax back at your lodging, reminiscing about the day's adventures.
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of a nearby coffee farm to learn about the coffee production process. Participate in a coffee tasting session, experiencing the flavors of local brews. Engage with the farmers to understand their lives and traditions.
Enjoy a scenic hike through the lush landscapes surrounding the coffee farms, witnessing the stunning views of rolling hills. Stop for a picnic lunch featuring local ingredients, connecting with nature and your surroundings. Capture memorable photos of the breathtaking scenery.
Return to Planadas and unwind with some freshly brewed coffee in a cozy café. Reflect on your experiences during the day while sharing stories with fellow travelers. Prepare for the next day’s adventure by planning a visit to the nearby natural parks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Hotel/hostel per night | $15-40 |
| 🧆Casual dish (snack) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic rural experience
- Friendly locals
- Cost-effective travel
- Access to nearby nature and hikes
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer direct international flight options
- Language barrier for travelers not speaking Spanish
- Limited healthcare facilities in remote areas
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Planadas
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with a church and colorful storefronts; ideal for street photography and morning light.
Wide views of coffee farms, banana groves, and hills—great for panoramic shots at golden hour.
Riverbank scenes, small boats, and sunset reflections for serene waterside photography.
Food in Planadas
Planadas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken, corn, yucca, and plantain stew, often served with a side arepa and avocado.
Must-Try!
A regional platter featuring grilled meat, beans, rice, plantains, and a fried egg, reflecting Tolima comfort food.
Corn-based flatbread or cake, commonly enjoyed as a snack or side, sometimes with cheese or hogao.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, fruits, and everyday snacks; a great place to sample regional ingredients.
Small stalls around the plaza offering arepas, empanadas, and tamales—perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm hola or buenos días; show politeness toward elders and community members.
Casual and neat attire in town; modest dress for churches and formal occasions.
Safety
Tipping in Planadas
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips for waitstaff (around 5–10%), guides (10%), and housekeeping; rounding up the bill is common in casual spots.
Cash in Colombian pesos is widely used; some larger venues may accept debit/credit cards; carry some local currency for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Less rain makes outdoor exploration easier and more predictable; however, humidity remains high so stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Afternoon showers are common; bring a light rain jacket and protective gear for photography and outdoor activities.
Planadas at Night
Hiking in Planadas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hike offering viewpoints over the valley and surrounding farmland.
Airports
How to reach Planadas by plane.
Closest regional airport offering connections to major cities; road transfer to Planadas takes a few hours.
Major international hub; from Bogotá, connect to domestic flights to Ibagué or Neiva and then travel by road to Planadas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Town residents with a mix of rural-urban lifestyles.
Wider community around Planadas involved in agriculture, coffee and crops.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played informally in towns and organized leagues across Colombia.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games in evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Planadas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted with vegetables, rice, beans, and plantains; request stock-free broths and avoid meat-based sauces when possible.