Things To Do
in Santander de Quilichao
Santander de Quilichao is a vibrant town in the Cauca Valley, blending Andean landscapes with Afro-Colombian and Indigenous influences. It serves as a gateway to rural Cauca and offers a relaxed, authentic Colombian experience away from the big-city crowds. The town center features a colorful plaza, colonial churches, and lively markets that come alive in the evenings.
Surrounded by rivers, forests, and rolling hills, Quilichao is a great base for exploring nature and local culture alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the vibrant streets of Santander de Quilichao, soaking in the colonial architecture and lively atmosphere. Visit the main square, Plaza de Santander, where local artisans display their crafts, and enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café. Don't miss the opportunity to snap pictures of the iconic church, La Iglesia de San Francisco, with its stunning facade.
After lunch at a local eatery, delve deeper into the region's culture by visiting the Museo de la Memoria, which offers insights into the historical events that shaped the area. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, stopping at local shops to purchase handmade souvenirs and artisanal goods. As the afternoon sun begins to set, enjoy a refreshing drink at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals.
As night falls, head to a popular restaurant to savor traditional Colombian dishes such as sancocho or bandeja paisa. Enjoy the lively atmosphere accompanied by live music, which often features local musicians playing traditional Colombian rhythms. After dinner, take a peaceful walk through the town square, where you can experience the local nightlife and perhaps join in a spontaneous dance.
Start your day early with a guided nature walk in the nearby Parque Natural de las Orquídeas, famous for its diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and unique plant species as you trek through lush landscapes, accompanied by an expert guide who shares fascinating insights. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the beauty of nature, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife.
Continue your adventure with a visit to the nearby river for some relaxation by the water. Enjoy a picnic lunch prepared with local ingredients while taking in the serene surroundings and perhaps spotting some playful monkeys in the trees. After lunch, engage in activities like birdwatching or photography, capturing the stunning biodiversity of the area.
Return to Santander de Quilichao and unwind at a local café, sipping on coffee made from freshly roasted beans. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the town, reflecting on the beauty of the day and the experiences you’ve had. Conclude your evening by enjoying a traditional dessert like arequipe or buñuelos at a local vendor.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥙Local dish or street food | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transit | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quilichao offers authentic small-town Colombian vibes and easy access to rural landscapes.
- Friendly locals and affordable prices.
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities.
- Rural roads can be rough and some services may be basic.
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Santander de Quilichao
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic townscape with palm trees, a colorful church, and evening lights—great for street and architectural shots.
Riverside scenery with mountains in the distance; ideal for golden hour and sunset photography.
Vibrant storefronts and daily life, perfect for candid and documentary-style photography.
Short hikes from the town lead to cascades and lush forests, offering rich nature photography opportunities.
Food in Santander de Quilichao
Santander de Quilichao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Cauca-style tamal made with masa, pork, olives, and vegetables, often enjoyed with fresh juice.
Must-Try!
Fritters made from cassava dough filled with cheese or meat; a popular street snack.
A robust stew featuring locally available meat, plantains, yuca, and corn, typically served with rice.
Sweet corn arepa, often served with cheese or hogao for added savor.
A comforting, chicken-and-rice dish widely found in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, snacks, arepas, empanadas, and daily specials offered by local vendors.
Casual bites like arepas, empanadas, and fruit cups — ideal for quick lunches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and eye contact; say 'Buenos días/tardes' based on the time of day.
Maintain calm tones in public; avoid sensitive political topics in casual conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove hats indoors and in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Santander de Quilichao
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards. Carry small bills for markets and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with clearer skies and warmer days; bring sunscreen and water. Brief, refreshing showers can occur in the afternoons.
Frequent rain and higher humidity; carry a light rain jacket and water-resistant gear. Trails can be slippery; plan flexible itineraries.
Santander de Quilichao at Night
Hiking in Santander de Quilichao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hike with scenic river views, suited for beginners.
Montane forest hike offering birds, ferns, and sweeping valley vistas.
Short trails to several cascades with picnic spots and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Santander de Quilichao by plane.
Located in Cali; main international gateway you’ll likely fly through to reach Quilichao; about 170-230 km away by road.
Regional airport serving southern Colombia; useful for reverse or additional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with diverse regional influences.
Prominent Indigenous group in Cauca, contributing to culture and traditions.
Significant Afro-Colombian presence in Cauca, influencing music, cuisine, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; watch local teams or join a pickup game in the plaza or school grounds.
Common in schools and community centers with casual games and local tournaments.
Road cycling and mountain biking in the valley and surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santander de Quilichao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries can accommodate vegetarian options; use 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne' and specify no meat.