Things To Do
in San Bernardo
San Bernardo is a small town located in the Colombian Andes, known for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant climate. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and coffee plantations, offering visitors a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. San Bernardo is also famous for its traditional colonial architecture and historic sites, such as the beautiful church in the town square.
The friendly locals and delicious Colombian cuisine make San Bernardo a charming destination for travelers seeking a relaxing retreat.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk around the town center, taking in the charming colonial architecture. Don’t forget to enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café.
Visit the local markets where you can find unique crafts and fresh produce. Try some authentic Colombian lunch at a restaurant known for its regional dishes.
Take a stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets over the mountains. Enjoy a casual dinner at a seafood restaurant with views of the water.
Set out early for a hike in the surrounding hills, where you can experience the rich biodiversity of the region. Bring along some snacks and enjoy a breakfast picnic in nature.
Explore the nearby waterfalls, taking a refreshing swim and enjoying the scenery. For lunch, pack a picnic or return to town for a meal at a local eatery.
End your day with a visit to an eco-lodge for a tranquil evening. Sample local dishes while listening to live music performed by local artists.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes including mountains and valleys.
- Pleasant climate year-round, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage with a variety of festivals and traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Colombia.
- Growing tourism sector, providing opportunities for local businesses.
- Limited access to certain modern amenities and services.
- Economic opportunities may be less compared to major urban centers.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed, leading to transportation challenges.
- Healthcare facilities may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Potential for crime and safety concerns in certain areas.
Best Activities in San Bernardo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the thrill of paragliding while enjoying stunning aerial views of San Bernardo and its surrounding natural landscapes.
Embark on a memorable hiking adventure in the iconic El Peñón de Guatapé, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the region.
Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping river rafting excursion on the mighty Magdalena River, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters.
Places to Visit in San Bernardo
Visit one of these nice places.
A viewpoint offering panoramic views of San Bernardo and the surrounding area.
A beautiful waterfall that provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
A waterfront promenade with scenic views of the Magdalena River.
Food in San Bernardo
San Bernardo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken and potato soup simmered with corn and served with avocado and capers. It can be savored at La Casona Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Fried leaf-cutter ants, seasoned and enjoyed as a crunchy snack. These can be found in the local markets or some street food stalls in the area.
Roasted kid goat served with tender yucca and aji sauce, available at El Rancho restaurant for an authentic taste.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a plethora of fresh local produce, snacks, and treats. Don't miss trying the empanadas and fresh tropical fruits here.
Known as 'Ants Street', this area features street vendors offering fried ants, a unique and memorable snack to experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Bernardo, it is important to be mindful of personal space when interacting with others. It is respectful to maintain an appropriate distance and avoid invading someone's personal space.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in San Bernardo. It is important to use polite language, greet people with respect, and show consideration towards others in social interactions.
San Bernardo has rich cultural traditions, and it is important to show respect for local customs and traditions. This includes participating in activities with openness and respect for the local way of life.
Safety
Tipping in San Bernardo
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Bernardo, Colombia, tipping is not commonly practiced, and it is not expected in most situations. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is at the discretion of the customer.
The most widely accepted form of payment in San Bernardo, Colombia, is cash (Colombian pesos). Credit and debit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and stores. It is advisable to carry some cash for transactions in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit San Bernardo, with warm and sunny weather perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural attractions.
During the shoulder seasons, expect occasional rainfall, but also thinner crowds and lower prices for accommodations. It's a good time for hiking and birdwatching.
The rainy season brings lush green landscapes and frequent rainfall. Travelers can still enjoy the region's waterfalls and rivers, but should be prepared for wetter conditions.
San Bernardo at Night
Hiking in San Bernardo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park offering various trails with stunning views of the Andes and diverse ecosystems, located about 30 km from San Bernardo.
An adventurous spot in the Cuca River valley with hiking opportunities, ideal for those looking to explore scenic landscapes and waterfalls, situated approximately 20 km away.
A serene park featuring a range of trails through lush vegetation, perfect for nature enthusiasts and families, located roughly 25 km from San Bernardo.
A popular hiking destination known for its panoramic views of the surrounding region, accessible within 15 km from San Bernardo.
One of the largest moorland reserves in the world, offering unique flora and fauna, with trails for hiking, located about 40 km from San Bernardo.
Aiports
How to reach San Bernardo by plane.
Located in Bogotá, approximately 40 km from San Bernardo, it is the largest and busiest airport in Colombia, serving international and domestic flights.
Situated in Medellín, around 70 km from San Bernardo, this airport serves both international and domestic flights.
Located approximately 120 km from San Bernardo in Cali, this is another major international airport serving the Valle del Cauca region.
Located in Santa Marta, about 130 km from San Bernardo, serving international and domestic flights, primarily catering to tourism.
Located near Medellín at about 70 km distance, this airport also handles both international and local traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in San Bernardo, consisting of mixed indigenous and European ancestry.
Groups with ancestral ties to the region and distinct cultural traditions.
People of African descent, contributing significantly to the cultural diversity of the area.
Residents of European descent, making up a smaller portion of the population.
Including recent immigrants and various smaller ethnic groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in San Bernardo, deeply ingrained in the local culture and community spirit.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, providing a platform for youth engagement and community tournaments.
Cycling is a favored sport in the region, with various biking trails and competitions promoting local talents.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and communities, known for its inclusive environment and teamwork.
Athletics, including running and field events, is encouraged in schools, fostering physical fitness and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Bernardo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine often features meat, many restaurants in San Bernardo offer vegetarian options like Arepas (corn cakes) and plantain-based dishes. For vegan options, look for vegetable-based soups and salads.
Rice-based dishes such as Arroz con Pollo (chicken with rice), along with fresh fruits and some corn-based snacks like arepas, can be good gluten-free choices. Always communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.