Things To Do
in San Sebastián
San Sebastián, Colombia is a small town in the tropical lowlands known for its lush landscapes and friendly, welcoming residents. It sits amid river valleys and green hills that invite outdoor exploration. The town reflects Afro-Colombian and Indigenous influences in music, markets, and daily life.
Visitors come to enjoy nature, fresh seafood, and a laid-back pace with opportunities to connect with local artisans and guides.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Sebastián and settle into your accommodation. Spend the morning exploring the quaint streets filled with colorful colonial architecture. Grab a local breakfast at a nearby cafe to fuel your adventure.
Join a walking tour to learn about the rich history of the town and its significance in Colombian culture. Visit the main square and take in the charming atmosphere amid local markets. Stop for lunch at a small eatery, savoring traditional Colombian dishes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant overlooking the hills. Sample local wines or craft beers while you soak in the vibrant ambiance. Take an evening stroll to enjoy the night lights of the city.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby art gallery to appreciate works by local artists. Engage with the creators and learn about their inspirations that reflect the beauty of the region. Enjoy a breakfast burrito from a local vendor for a delightful treat.
Spend the afternoon in Parque de la Cultura, where you can relax or partake in a workshop on traditional crafts. Discover the beautiful landscapes around the park, which are perfect for casual walks. Enjoy lunch at a local food truck serving fresh arepas.
Head to a local theater for a night of music or dance showcasing Colombian talent. After the performance, indulge in a late-night snack of street food favorites. Wind down in a cozy bar, enjoying live music and mingling with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚶Public transport ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛏️Hostel or budget hotel per night | $12-35 |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed vibe
- Abundant seafood, tropical produce, and affordable eats
- Beautiful natural surroundings with easy access to rivers and trails
- Compact town center that is walkable and easy to explore
- Limited infrastructure outside the main town
- Seasonal rains can affect outdoor plans
- Smaller selection of high-end dining and nightlife compared to larger cities
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Quisiera…" - I would like…
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "No entiendo" - I don’t understand
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers (to your health)!
Places to Visit in San Sebastián
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfront promenade with sea views, colorful boats, and golden-hour lighting—great for wide-angle coastal shots.
A short hike or drive to a lookout point offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.
Vibrant stalls, textiles, and produce make for dynamic indoor photography with bold colors and textures.
A lively square where locals gather; capture daily life, musicians, and market activity.
Food in San Sebastián
San Sebastián Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coconut rice that pairs beautifully with fried fish or seafood, a staple of coastal Colombian cooking.
Must-Try!
Freshly fried fish served with twice-fried plantain slices; a classic beachside combination.
Creamy seafood stew with shrimp and shellfish, often cooked with coconut milk and herbs.
Hearty fish stew with cassava, plantains, yuca, and corn; perfect for sharing.
Egg-filled arepa, fried until crisp and enjoyed as a quick street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where fishermen and farmers sell fresh produce, seafood, and regional snacks; try empanadas and fried plantains from local vendors.
Clumps of street vendors along the waterfront offering fruit cups, patacones, and grilled corn with lime and salt.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting with a smile and a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends. Use 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' when entering shops.
Dress modestly in religious sites and markets; be polite and patient; tipping is appreciated but not forced.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets or homes; a small friendly interaction goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in San Sebastián
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is customary if service isn’t included. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest 1000 or 5000 Colombian pesos is common. In bars and small venues, leave loose change if you’re happy with the service.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and small eateries. Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in urban restaurants and hotels; carry some cash for bus fares and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dryer days with plenty of sun, making outdoor adventures comfortable. Best for hiking, street photography in daylight, and beach visits if available.
Frequent afternoon showers; lush green landscapes and dramatic skies. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof gear for photographers.
San Sebastián at Night
Hiking in San Sebastián
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular lookout with panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills; a relatively short hike suitable for most visitors.
A forested trail near the town offering opportunities to see wildlife and dense vegetation.
Airports
How to reach San Sebastián by plane.
A regional hub offering domestic and limited international flights; drives and buses connect to the town region.
Major international gateway in the region with several daily flights; longer road connections to the town.
A large international airport with frequent connections to major cities; commonly used by travelers heading to the coast via land routes.
Colombia’s largest airport with extensive international and domestic connections; can be a first stop for many travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence in the coastal lowlands, contributing music, cuisine, and cultural traditions.
A blend seen in daily life, crafts, and local celebrations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local matches and pickup games common in plazas and schools.
Rides through rural roads and scenic routes around the hills and rivers.
Casual games and small tournaments in community centers and school courts.
Swimming, beach soccer, and casual boating or kayaking when near water.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Sebastián.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include bean or lentil dishes, rice with vegetables, plantains, fruits, and salads. Ask for 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne' and confirm no fish stock or seafood broths are used.