Things To Do
in Rivera
Rivera is a quiet river town in the Huila region, tucked along the Magdalena River. Its streets are lined with colonial buildings, colorful markets, and friendly locals who greet visitors with warmth. The area is agriculturally rich, producing coffee, plantains, and fresh tropical fruit that color the markets.
Visitors come for relaxed riverfront strolls, easy access to nature, and a glimpse into everyday Colombian rural life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Simon Bolivar International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Santa Marta. Spend the morning settling in and exploring the nearby beaches, such as Playa Blanca, where you can relax or take a quick swim. Try some local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling arepas or fresh fruit.
After lunch, visit the historical center of Santa Marta, where you can walk along the scenic waterfront promenade. Explore local shops, art galleries, and the iconic Cathedral of Santa Marta, one of the oldest churches in South America. End your afternoon with a visit to the Tairona Gold Museum to learn about the indigenous cultures of the region.
As the sun sets, dine at a local seafood restaurant offering fresh catch of the day, accompanied by the sound of the ocean waves. Afterward, stroll along the beach or visit a beach bar for cocktails as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Wrap up your day with some live music at a nearby venue or relax at your hotel.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to Tayrona National Park. Upon arrival, take a scenic hike through lush jungle trails where you may encounter a variety of wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the breathtaking views along the way, which will lead you to some of the park’s stunning beaches.
Once you reach the pristine shores of Cabo San Juan, take some time to swim and soak up the sun. For lunch, pack a picnic or enjoy local offerings from beach vendors. Spend the afternoon swimming or trying out snorkeling to explore the vibrant underwater life.
As the day winds down, relax on the beach and watch the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Pack up and start your return hike, taking in the evening sounds of nature. Once back in Santa Marta, enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, discussing your day’s adventures with your travel companions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-9 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚎One-way local transportation | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Beautiful river scenery and green landscapes
- Good value for money and affordability
- Easy access to nearby coffee country and nature
- Limited nightlife and English speakers
- Rural infrastructure can be uneven in some areas
- Smaller selection of Western amenities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "I don't speak Spanish" - I don’t speak Spanish
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Rivera
Visit one of these nice places.
A long riverside promenade offering golden hour sunsets, boats on the river, and reflections on the water.
A hilltop viewpoint with sweeping views of the town, river, and surrounding farmland—great for sunrise shots.
A charming colonial church set against vibrant storefronts and a lively plaza backdrop.
Food in Rivera
Rivera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stock-based stew made with corn, plantains, yucca, and tender meat, often served with white rice and avocado.
Must-Try!
Tamales wrapped in banana leaves, filled with masa, pork or chicken, and vegetables; a comforting staple for family meals.
Fresh river mojarra fried crisp and served with lime, fried plantains, and a fresh salsa.
Traditional corn arepa enjoyed with cheese or hogao (savory tomato-onion sauce).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market at the heart of town offering fresh fruit, river fish, arepas, tamales, and everyday staples.
Casual stalls around the plaza serving arepas, empanadas, chuzos, and refreshing fresh juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola and a handshake; address adults with usted unless invited to use tu; eye contact and a warm smile are appreciated.
Dress modestly in churches and modest public spaces; avoid loud behavior in sacred or formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Rivera
Ensure a smooth experience
In cafes and restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary if service is good; many larger establishments include a service charge—tip additionally if not included.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; credit/debit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels; some places add a small card surcharge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days and minimal rain, ideal for outdoor exploration, river walks, and countryside photography. Evenings can be cool; pack a light layer.
Lush landscapes and vibrant greenery; frequent afternoon showers. Carry a compact rain jacket and quick-dry gear.
Rivera at Night
Hiking in Rivera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike to a rocky outcrop with views over the river and farmland, suitable for a half-day trip.
A series of small waterfalls and lush forest paths ideal for a nature stroll.
Airports
How to reach Rivera by plane.
Nearest regional airport serving Neiva and the surrounding region; connects to Bogotá and Medellín and other major cities.
A smaller regional airport closer to the southern part of Huila; flights connect to major hubs for onward travel.
A larger international airport about a few hours away by road; useful for longer international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of residents work in agriculture, with families maintaining regional customs.
Town dwellers in services, commerce, and education sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and pick-up matches are common in plazas and schools.
A traditional Colombian pastime often played in social venues; a fun activity for visitors to try.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rivera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most cafes and markets; look for arepas with cheese, plantains, beans, and fresh salads; ask for vegetables or mushroom dishes without meat.