Things To Do
in Santo Tomás
Santo Tomás is a municipality located in the Atlántico department of Colombia. It is known for its agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation of crops such as rice, corn, and yucca. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music and dance playing a significant role in its local festivities.
Santo Tomás is also home to picturesque landscapes and natural attractions, offering visitors opportunities for outdoor exploration and eco-tourism.
- "¿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): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the nearby nature reserve early in the morning to catch a glimpse of birds and wildlife. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching as you wander through the lush trails.
Have lunch at a nearby café that offers views of the mountains. Spend the afternoon photographing the unique flora and fauna.
Return to town for a relaxing dinner. Try some local dishes like sancocho and indulge in the ambiance of the town square.
Gear up for a thrilling day of adventure by signing up for an outdoor activity like kayaking. Start the morning with a safety briefing and a quick lesson on paddling techniques.
Enjoy the pleasures of nature as you navigate through calm waters and spot local wildlife. Break for lunch on the shore, enjoying packed sandwiches and the fresh breeze.
Wrap up an exciting day with a sunset at the waterfront. Savor dinner and unwind at a local tavern filled with friendly locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions and festivals.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban centers.
- Growing local economy with opportunities in agriculture and tourism.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructural challenges such as roads and public transport.
- Potential safety concerns due to crime in certain areas.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Access to education and resources may be less than in larger cities.
Best Activities in Santo Tomás
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and spectacular views in the mountains near Santo Tomás.
Discover a variety of bird species in the natural reserve, including toucans, hummingbirds, and parrots.
Enjoy a thrilling experience by tubing down the gentle rapids of the Rio Sogamoso, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santo Tomás with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santo Tomás
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes and is a great spot for capturing photos of the area.
Known for its beautiful views and opportunities to photograph hummingbirds in their natural habitat.
Provides spectacular views of the valley and lush greenery, making it a great location for photography.
Food in Santo Tomás
Santo Tomás Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter featuring a generous serving of grilled meats, beans, rice, plantain, arepa, avocado, and a fried egg. Best enjoyed at local eateries like La Fonda Antioqueña.
Must-Try!
A comforting stew made with a variety of meats, potatoes, yuca, corn, and other vegetables, seasoned with local herbs and spices. Don't miss trying Sancocho at Restaurante El Fogón de la Abuela.
A popular street food made from cornmeal dough, filled with egg, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Look for vendors in the town center for this delectable snack.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santo Tomás better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, and homemade snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in freshly prepared empanadas, chorizos, and tropical fruit juices.
This lively street is lined with food stalls and vendors grilling up an array of meats, sausages, and arepas. It's a must-visit for experiencing the authentic flavors of street food in Santo Tomás.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santo Tomás, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close when interacting with others.
When meeting someone for the first time or in formal settings, it is customary to use formal greetings such as 'Señor' or 'Señora' followed by the person's last name.
Punctuality is valued in Santo Tomás, so it's important to be on time for appointments and meetings as a sign of respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santo Tomás with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Tomás
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santo Tomás, Colombia, it is customary to leave a 10% tip for good service at restaurants. Tipping is also appreciated for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
Payment in Santo Tomás, Colombia is mainly done in cash, and credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major cities. It's important to have local currency on hand for most transactions, especially in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santo Tomás.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Santo Tomás is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and the rainfall is minimal. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
During the rainy season, Santo Tomás experiences heavy rainfall, which can lead to muddy trails and difficult traveling conditions. However, the lush greenery and vibrant landscapes make it a unique time to visit for nature enthusiasts.
Santo Tomás at Night
Hiking in Santo Tomás
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring diverse ecosystems with hiking trails that offer stunning views and unique wildlife.
Known for its iconic rock formation, this area provides hiking opportunities with breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and landscape.
A nature reserve with well-maintained trails that allow hikers to explore the lush rainforest and spot various bird species.
Home to several hiking routes that showcase cloud forests and endemic plant species, ideal for adventurous hikers.
A scenic area with waterfalls and rivers where visitors can hike and enjoy nature, providing a refreshing experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santo Tomás through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santo Tomás by plane.
The main international airport serving Bogotá, Colombia, located approximately 140 km from Santo Tomás.
An international airport located in the city of Countryside, approximately 80 km from Santo Tomás.
The main airport serving Santa Marta, Colombia, about 120 km from Santo Tomás.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Santo Tomás, primarily a mixture of Indigenous and European heritage.
A significant demographic group, characterized by diverse cultural influences and historical roots in African ancestry.
A smaller population that includes various Indigenous communities native to the region.
Descendants of European immigrants, typically concentrated in urban areas with higher economic status.
A small group that adds to the cultural diversity, although they represent a minority in the area.
The Soul of Santo Tomás
Discover the essence of Santo Tomás through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Santo Tomás, with a strong local following and numerous youth teams participating in regional tournaments.
Baseball holds a significant place in the hearts of many residents, with local leagues and community games being common.
Bicycling is popular for both recreation and transportation, with many residents engaging in biking on weekends and during local events.
Volleyball is frequently played in schools and community centers, particularly on the coast, promoting both competition and teamwork.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with many courts available for play in urban areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Tomás.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine is meat-centric, many local eateries are increasingly offering vegetarian and even vegan adaptations of classic dishes. Look for options like lentil stew, stuffed arepas, and plantain-based specialties.
Those with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled fish with fresh salads, rice and beans, and fruit-based desserts, which are commonly found in Santo Tomás. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Santo Tomás with these cultural adventures.
