Things To Do
in Sabana de Torres

Colorful everyday life, colonial-style architecture and evening gatherings provide candid street and portrait opportunities.

Sunrise and sunset along the riverbanks capture reflections, fishing boats and waterbirds—great for landscapes and wildlife.

Wide savannah landscapes with grazing cattle, palm groves and rural tracks—classic Magdalena Medio scenes, especially at golden hour.

Vibrant produce, cheeses and vendors offer colorful close-ups and street-life photography opportunities.

A thicker, grilled arepa often eaten with cheese or hogao; widely available at markets and small breakfast shops.

Must-Try!

A light fish and root-vegetable soup using local river fish, served in modest riverside eateries and seasonal stalls.

Simple grilled steak from local cattle, seasoned and cooked over open flame at fincas and parillas (grills).

Fresh dairy products made locally—great with arepas or as a snack from market vendors.

Daily market in town selling fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, cheese and ready-made snacks like empanadas and arepas; mornings are busiest and best for sampling.

Stalls near river access offering fried fish, patacones (fried plantain) and cold local juices—popular afternoon and weekend spots.

Polite greetings are important—shake hands or offer a single cheek kiss in social settings; use buenos días/buenas tardes to open conversations.

Show deference to older community members and farm hosts; modest dress and respectful behavior in churches and family homes is expected.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially inside markets, homes or during religious events.

Informal events and gatherings may run relaxed schedules; for official appointments arrive on time but be prepared to wait for informal social meetings.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in small towns; rounding up taxi fares, leaving small change for market helpers and 5–10% at sit-down restaurants (if service is good) is common.

Cash (Colombian pesos) is king—many small businesses and markets accept cash only. Some restaurants and shops may accept cards in town center, but network connections can be unreliable; carry sufficient cash and use ATMs in larger nearby towns.

Hotter, sunnier days with lower humidity and fewer afternoon storms—best for river outings, hiking and photography but bring sun protection and water.

Increased showers and rising river levels can make some rural roads muddy; rivers and wetlands are rich for birdwatching but plan flexible travel times.

Mixed weather: some dry periods but occasional heavy rains. Temperatures remain warm; outdoor plans should include rain contingencies.

One of the rainier stretches—expect frequent afternoon storms and possible local flooding on low roads; river activities may be limited but the landscape is lush.

The main regional airport serving Santander—approximately 2–3 hours by road depending on route and traffic; most convenient for national connections and onward travel to major Colombian cities.

A smaller regional airport closer to the Magdalena Medio area with limited commercial or charter services; useful for regional connections when available.