Things To Do
in Puebloviejo
Puebloviejo sits along the banks of the Magdalena River in the Magdalena Department, a quiet coastal town with a friendly, rural charm. The town offers a relaxed pace, pastel-washed houses, and a sense of daily life shaped by fishing, farming, and markets. Its location near the Caribbean coast provides easy access to mangroves, river channels, and nearby towns.
Expect welcoming locals, simple plazas, and opportunities to observe authentic coastal Colombian culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza Principal, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture that defines Puebloviejo. Grab a traditional breakfast of arepas and fresh fruit juice from a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, take time to explore the various artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Museo del Oro to learn about the rich history and culture of the region, highlighted by its impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. Following your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can take in the beautiful natural scenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Feel free to stop by a nearby park to relax under the shade of a tree.
As the sun sets, dine at one of the charming restaurants that offer traditional Colombian dishes, such as bandeja paisa or sancocho. Savor the flavors while listening to live music that often fills the air in the evenings. For a perfect end to your day, stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the lively ambiance of the town.
Kick off your morning with a short drive to the nearby beaches of Santa Marta, where the golden sands and turquoise waters await. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, indulging in fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Once energized, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastal waters and enjoy the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance.
After a morning of activity, settle on the beach for a relaxing afternoon soaking up the sun or swimming in the refreshing sea. Consider joining a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life that thrives just off the coast. As the afternoon progresses, enjoy a beach barbecue featuring local delicacies and refreshing cocktails.
As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, enjoying the breathtaking sunset that paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. Afterward, head to a beachfront bar to unwind with a cold drink while listening to the soothing rhythm of the waves. Cap off the night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-8 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Affordable compared with bigger cities
- Close proximity to nature and beaches
- Rich birdlife and river scenery
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Fewer healthcare facilities within town
- Rural roads can be slow and less comfortable for long trips
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda, por favor" - Help, please
- "Me gustaría una bebida sin alcohol" - I would like a non-alcoholic drink
Places to Visit in Puebloviejo
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming parish with white walls and a red-tiled roof; best photographed at golden hour.
Wide river views, boats, and palm-lined banks—ideal for sunset shots.
Vivid stalls, baskets, and daily life provide colorful street photography opportunities.
Traditional bridges with reflections and canal activity at dawn.
Food in Puebloviejo
Puebloviejo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried fish served with coconut rice, lime, and a simple salad.
Must-Try!
Fried arepa with a whole egg in the center, a popular coastal snack.
Yuca croquettes typically filled with cheese or meat.
Fried plantains served with a garlicky tomato-onion sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market scene with fresh seafood, produce, and regional snacks ripe for tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buen día; handshake is common, and eye contact is valued.
Use ustedes or the formal usted with elders; avoid raising your voice in public.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; ask before photographing private homes or people.
Safety
Tipping in Puebloviejo
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5–10%) at restaurants and for tour guides is appreciated but not always required.
Cash in COP is widely used; many places accept cards in town, and mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with little rain. Great for outdoor exploring and beach trips nearby; carry sunscreen and water.
Humid with periodic showers. Plan morning activities and keep a light rain jacket handy.
Afternoon showers are common; flexible plans help you maximize good weather windows.
Puebloviejo at Night
Hiking in Puebloviejo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes along boardwalks and canoe routes that highlight mangroves, birds, and coastal scenery.
Gentle trails through cacao and coconut plantations connecting nearby villages.
Airports
How to reach Puebloviejo by plane.
Santa Marta airport with domestic flights and some international connections; about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Puebloviejo.
Barranquilla's airport; larger network of flights, about 2.5–3.5 hours by road to Puebloviejo.
Cartagena airport; longer drive but frequent connections to major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix reflecting the coastal region's history, with strong cultural traditions and family networks.
Many residents are involved in farming and fishing, keeping the rural economy vibrant.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal matches are common in plazas and schoolyards.
Played in school courts and community centers, with local pickup games often in the evenings.
Given the river and coastal access, fishing is a common activity for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puebloviejo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, but most coastal dishes feature seafood. Ask for plant-based sides or dishes like beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables.