Things To Do
in San Juan de Betulia

Coconut rice served with freshly fried fish and patacones (fried green plantains); common where freshwater fish is available and a must-try for its balance of sweet and savory.

Must-Try!

A comforting stew made with plantain, yuca, corn and meat or fish depending on availability; frequently served at family gatherings and weekend lunches.

Staple snacks found at street stalls and cafés—arepas may be grilled or fried, and empanadas are filled with potato, meat or cheese and sold widely.

Polite greetings are valued: say 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' and shake hands or offer a light hug with acquaintances. Use formal titles (Señor/Señora) until invited to use first names.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or private settings; many people will appreciate being asked and may pose.

Respect church services and religious customs—dress modestly when attending mass and observe quiet behavior during ceremonies.

Easy trails along nearby rivers that offer gentle walking, birdwatching and opportunities to see local fishing activities—great for half-day excursions.

Guided or self-led walks through plantain and cassava fields and small coffee or cacao plots where you can learn about cultivation and local agricultural methods.

Short hikes to nearby low hills or roadside viewpoints provide panoramic views of the agricultural landscape and are suitable for sunrise or sunset photography.

The nearest departmental airport serving Sincelejo (capital of Sucre); from there, a regional bus or taxi ride can connect to smaller municipalities—expect a 1–3 hour ground transfer depending on route and road conditions.

A regional airport in Montería that offers domestic connections; often used as an alternate gateway with longer road travel to rural Sucre towns but useful for scheduled flights and services.

Major international airport serving Cartagena; farther away but with many domestic and international connections—useful if you plan to combine coastal destinations and make a longer transfer inland.

The majority of residents identify as mestizo, reflecting mixed Indigenous and European ancestry, and form the core of local social and economic life.

There are Afro-Colombian families and communities in the broader Caribbean region, contributing cultural traditions, music and cuisine.

Small indigenous presences may exist in the wider region; indigenous cultural influence can be seen in traditional practices and knowledge of local ecosystems.

Soccer is the most popular sport—pickup games and local youth teams are common in plazas and fields.

Cycling for transport and recreation is widespread in rural areas; locals often use bicycles or motorbikes for short trips.

Fishing in rivers and streams is both a pastime and a food source, practiced by locals and visitors alike.

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in rural restaurants; rice, beans, salads, fried plantain and grilled vegetables are common substitutes—ask for plates without meat or fish.

Vegan choices are more limited; be explicit about avoiding dairy and eggs, and rely on market produce, plantains, yuca and rice. Bringing snacks is wise for longer outings.

Many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, cassava, plantain), but be cautious with processed foods, sauces and breads—ask vendors about ingredients.