Things To Do
in Puente Nacional
Puente Nacional is a small Colombian town set in the Andean highlands known for its lush valleys and river scenery. The town blends colonial charm with rural hospitality, featuring colorful houses and a lively central plaza. Visitors come to explore nearby nature trails, sample hearty regional dishes, and experience a relaxed pace of life.
Accessible by road from larger cities, Puente Nacional serves as a convenient stop for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the picturesque town of Puente Nacional, nestled in the lush green landscape of Colombia. Take some time to settle into your accommodation, enjoying the fresh mountain air and scenic views. Have a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Colombian dishes.
Explore the charming central plaza where you can visit the beautiful church and interact with friendly locals. Stroll through the artisanal markets, where you can find unique crafts and delicious local food. As you take in the surroundings, make sure to capture the vibrant colors and architecture with your camera.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring local flavors. Reflect on your first day in Puente Nacional and soak in the ambiance of the town as it comes alive at night. Perhaps enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar or café, listening to live music and mingling with residents.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the iconic Puente Nacional bridge. Marvel at the impressive architecture and the surrounding landscapes that offer excellent photo opportunities. Take a guided tour to learn about the bridge's history and significance.
After your visit to the bridge, have a picnic lunch at one of the nearby parks, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Spend some time hiking along the trails that lead you through the lush greenery, where you can spot various flora and fauna unique to the region. Engage in conversation with fellow hikers as you share stories and admire the breathtaking views.
Return to town for dinner, where you can try a plate of bandeja paisa, a traditional Colombian dish. After eating, explore the vibrant nightlife, perhaps attending a local dance event or cultural show to immerse yourself in Colombian traditions. Wind down the evening by taking a peaceful stroll along the riverbank.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🧃Soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic items) | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes and a relaxed pace
- Good base for nature and culture explorations
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Rural amenities may be sparse compared to larger cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank 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
- "No entiendo" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Puente Nacional
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful facades, soft morning light, and light activity make for vibrant street photography.
A scenic bridge with reflections on the water, especially magical at dawn or dusk.
Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the town and surrounding valleys.
Narrow streets with murals and hanging balconies ideal for candid street photography.
Food in Puente Nacional
Puente Nacional Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich corn-based soup with meat, vegetables, and herbs; a regional staple best tasted at traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Thick corn arepa often served with cheese or hogao; a common street and restaurant staple.
Steamed corn dough stuffed with meat and vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves for vibrant flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A modest market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Arepas, empanadas, buñuelos, and fresh fruit juices sold by neighborhood vendors around the main square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends; maintain friendly, polite conversation.
Dress modestly in churches and traditional settings; light, comfortable clothing suits the climate.
Safety
Tipping in Puente Nacional
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip around 5-10% if a service charge is not included. Small tips to guides or drivers are appreciated.
Cash (Colombian pesos) is widely accepted in town; some places accept cards. ATMs are available in the market area.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
More sun and clearer trails; ideal for outdoor activities and photography, though mornings can be cool.
Afternoon showers are common; trails can be muddy; plan indoor activities for late mornings and carry a light rain jacket.
Puente Nacional at Night
Hiking in Puente Nacional
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.
Waterfall hikes with forest scenery; some trails are uneven and require sturdy footwear.
Airports
How to reach Puente Nacional by plane.
Major gateway to the region; about a 2-3 hour drive depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving Casanare; longer drive but useful for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families and town workers who live in the urban center.
Agrarian families from surrounding valleys who rely on farming and local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; matches and pickup games are common in parks and schools.
Rural roads and scenic routes attract cyclists and gravel riders.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puente Nacional.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for platos sin carne using beans, rice, plantains, cheese, and vegetables. Request that queso o carne be omitted and ask about veggie soups or salads.