Things To Do
in San Carlos de Guaroa
San Carlos de Guaroa is a small river town in Meta, Colombia, located in the Llanos region with expansive savannas and abundant wildlife. The town sits along the river corridors that sustain cattle ranching and local agriculture, giving it a rugged, open-country character. Visitors are welcomed by warm Llanero hospitality, colorful markets, and a relaxed pace that invites long sunset views over grasslands.
Surrounding landscapes offer easy access to nature, birdlife, and traditional rural culture that define daily life here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Plaza Principal, where you can enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee from a local vendor. As the sun rises, admire the beautiful colonial architecture surrounding the square, including the charming church, Iglesia de San Carlos. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, appreciating the vibrant murals that tell the story of the town's rich history.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the nearby artisan workshops, where skilled craftsmen create beautiful handicrafts and jewelry. Engage with the artisans and learn about their techniques while picking up unique souvenirs to remember your trip. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho.
As evening approaches, head to a local open-air restaurant where you can savor fresh grilled meat while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Listen to live music from local musicians, who often showcase traditional Colombian rhythms and folk songs. Conclude your day by taking a peaceful walk along the riverbank, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in Los Tuneros Park, a stunning area known for its diverse flora and fauna. As you wander along the trails, keep an eye out for exotic birds and butterflies flitting among the trees. The crisp morning air and tranquil sounds of nature will energize you for the adventures ahead.
After your nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s many paths, stopping to take photographs of the lush landscapes and unique ecosystems. You may also want to try your hand at birdwatching, as the park is home to many species endemic to the region.
As the sun sets, make your way back to town for a delicious dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases local ingredients. Enjoy dishes made from fresh produce and meats, honoring the region's agricultural heritage. Spend your evening mingling with locals in a cozy café, sipping hot chocolate and sharing stories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Lunch/dinner in mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Less crowded and more authentic than major cities
- Rich Llanos culture, wildlife, and hospitable people
- Affordably priced food, lodging, and activities
- Ease of access to open savannas and river life
- Limited infrastructure and slower transport connections
- Rural roads can be rough, especially in the rainy season
- Fewer medical facilities and international-style amenities
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "No hablo español muy bien" - I don't speak Spanish very well
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "Baño" - Bathroom
Places to Visit in San Carlos de Guaroa
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide river bend where the sun sinks over open Llanos grasslands, creating glowing silhouettes and long shadows—ideal for landscape photography.
Colorful stalls, people in daily life, and colonial-influenced architecture provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Expansive flat horizons with morning haze and grazing cattle; best for panoramic shots of the savanna and wildlife silhouettes.
Small, traditional religious architecture set against the backdrop of open skies and rural life; good for architectural and portrait photography.
Food in San Carlos de Guaroa
San Carlos de Guaroa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter of shredded beef, rice, black beans, and fried plantains—an emblem of Llanos cuisine and widely available in Guaroa.
Must-Try!
River fish dusted with spices and fried, served with white rice and fried plantains, a staple along the riverfront.
Thick corn arepas, perfect as a snack or accompaniment to meals.
A comforting fish stew cooked with yuca or plantains and local greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively indoor market with fresh produce, roots, local cheeses, and ready-to-eat bites; ideal for people-watching and tasting regional snacks.
Mobile and stall-based spots offering warm arepas, patacón (fried plantain slices), and stuffed snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello with a handshake is common. Use polite forms like 'usted' in formal contexts; eye contact and smiles are appreciated.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in marketplaces or homes. Dress modestly and respect local customs when visiting religious sites.
Polite conversation about family and local life is valued. Avoid controversial topics and show appreciation for hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in San Carlos de Guaroa
Ensure a smooth experience
In formal restaurants, a service tip of 5–10% is appreciated if not included. In casual settings, rounding up or small tips to guides and drivers is common.
Cash is widely accepted in town; some larger restaurants and hotels may take cards. Carry small denominations of coins for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny and hot; roads are drier and easier to traverse, but dust can be noticeable. Excellent for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities; afternoons remain hot, with cooler evenings.
Afternoon showers and higher humidity; landscapes become lush and green; some rural roads can become muddy or impassable after heavy rains. Good for dramatic skies and water-logged wetlands but plan for slower travel.
San Carlos de Guaroa at Night
Hiking in San Carlos de Guaroa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Open grasslands and wetlands ideal for birdwatching; best with a local guide at dawn or dusk.
Flat, easy trails along the riverbanks offering wildlife viewing and relaxed river scenery.
Airports
How to reach San Carlos de Guaroa by plane.
Major international hub; from here you can catch domestic flights to regional airports or arrange overland travel to Guaroa.
Regional gateway to the Llanos with regular domestic flights; convenient for accessing Meta and Guaroa by road.
Limited service; typically used by charter flights or community-based travel and may require ground transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mestizo with strong Llanero cultural traditions; Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities exist in surrounding rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; informal games occur in plazas and community fields almost every day.
A traditional Llanero activity, offering scenic rides through savannas and along river edges.
Cattle-handling skills and rope work featured in seasonal events and community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Carlos de Guaroa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plant-based options are available but meals in rural areas are meat-forward. Look for salads, beans, plantains, and cheese-based dishes; communicate dietary needs at markets and restaurants, and consider fresh fruit and vegetables from markets.