Things To Do
in Socorro
Socorro is a small colonial town in the department of Santander, Colombia, known for its well-preserved plaza, whitewashed churches and historical role in the independence movement. The town combines a relaxed provincial atmosphere with lively street life around the central parque and weekly markets. Surrounding hills, rivers and coffee farms offer easy access to outdoor activities and scenic viewpoints.
Visitors will find a mix of traditional Santander cuisine, friendly locals and cultural events tied to religious and historical commemorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Colombian arepas and fresh fruit juices. Afterward, take a guided walking tour through the historic center of Socorro, where you can admire colonial architecture and learn about the town's rich history. Don't forget to visit the iconic Parque Principal, a perfect spot for some morning relaxation.
In the afternoon, grab a bite at a nearby restaurant that serves authentic Colombian cuisine, perhaps trying the bandeja paisa. After lunch, explore the Museo de Arte Religioso, which houses fascinating artifacts and art pieces that reflect the region’s spiritual heritage. As you stroll through the center, take time to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
As evening descends, make your way to a local plaza where you can mingle with residents and enjoy live music performances. Treat yourself to dinner at a cozy eatery, sampling dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk under the stars, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Socorro.
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the breathtaking Chicamocha Canyon, known for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities. Upon arrival, take a cable car ride that offers panoramic views of the canyon and the Chicamocha River below, a perfect way to kick off your day. Don't forget your camera, as the views are nothing short of spectacular.
Once you've taken in the views, spend the afternoon engaging in thrilling activities like paragliding or hiking along the canyon trails, experiencing the natural beauty up close. Enjoy a packed lunch with a view, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the rushing river. As the sun begins to set, make your way to a viewpoint to witness the canyon's colors transform in the fading light.
Head back to Socorro in the evening, where you can unwind at a local tavern with a cold drink. Share stories from your day and interact with friendly locals, learning about their own adventures in the canyon. Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local specialties, reflecting on the day's adrenaline-fueled experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee (local café) | $0.80-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus / colectivo fare | $0.30-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-preserved colonial center with strong historical character
- Close access to hills, viewpoints and countryside activities
- Authentic regional cuisine and friendly local culture
- Lower costs compared with larger Colombian cities
- Limited nightlife and upscale accommodation options
- Fewer direct transport links — travel times to major airports can be long
- Some services (specialty shops, international cuisine) are limited
- Rainy-season showers can disrupt outdoor plans
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Muchas gracias" - Thank you very much
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
- "Sin carne / sin manteca, por favor" - Without meat / without lard, please
Places to Visit in Socorro
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic colonial square with church facades, street vendors and colorful daily life — excellent for architectural and street photography at golden hour.
Narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and wooden balconies provide strong compositions, textures and candid shots of local life.
Panoramic views over the valley and town at sunrise or sunset; ideal for wide landscapes and atmospheric light.
Vibrant colors, fresh produce and candid vendor portraits — best in the morning when activity is highest.
Photos of water, rural scenes and local recreation — good for nature and lifestyle imagery.
Food in Socorro
Socorro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, hearty soup made with corn, pork, beef, vegetables and spices — commonly found at local restaurants and markets, especially on colder or rainy days.
Must-Try!
Roasted or grilled young goat prepared with regional seasonings — a traditional celebratory dish served in many regional eateries and during festivals.
A famous edible insect specialty from Santander — crunchy, salty and often sold as a novelty snack or souvenir in regional markets.
A warm sweet drink (panela dissolved in water) often served with fresh local cheese; a comforting beverage available at breakfast and snack stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market is where locals buy fresh produce, corn products and prepared foods — great for trying local soups, empanadas and street coffee. Look for stalls selling arepas, grilled meats and regional sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or a single cheek kiss (among acquaintances) is common. Use polite formalities when first meeting people and address older people with respect.
Dress modestly in religious buildings and during processions; towns are generally conservative compared with big cities. Public displays of strong political criticism or aggressive behavior are frowned upon.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially during religious events or in private spaces. Be respectful around religious processions and monuments tied to local history.
Socorro has a strong historical and religious identity — show respect for local commemorations, and avoid dismissive remarks about traditions or historical events.
Safety
Tipping in Socorro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip modestly: a 10% service charge may appear on restaurant bills (if not, 5–10% is appreciated for good service). Small tips for porters, drivers and guides are common but not mandatory; rounding up taxi fares and leaving small change for restaurant staff is normal.
Cash (Colombian pesos) is widely used, especially in markets, taxis and small restaurants. Many larger establishments accept cards, but connectivity can be unreliable; carry enough cash for rural excursions and small purchases. ATMs are available in town but may have limits — use the main bank branches or withdraw in Bucaramanga if possible.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Days are sunnier and drier, making it the best time for outdoor activities, hiking and photography. Expect warm daytime temperatures and cooler mornings/evenings in higher spots.
Afternoons often bring showers or heavier rain — plan outdoor activities for the morning, bring a waterproof jacket and be cautious on slippery trails and rural roads.
Religious and civic festivities can occur at different times of year; during festivals the town becomes lively with processions, food stalls and extended hours for bars and restaurants — bookings and transport may be busier.
Socorro at Night
Hiking in Socorro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A relatively short climb from town to a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Socorro and the valley — suitable for most fitness levels and best at sunrise or late afternoon.
Gentle walks following waterways that connect farmland and small natural pools; good for birdwatching and picnics. Conditions vary with rainfall.
A cultural-historical walk that traces pathways used during the region’s independence-era events — combines light hiking with interpretive stops and monuments.
Network of rural tracks passing small farms, coffee plots and secondary forest — ideal for longer day hikes, photography and meeting rural communities; local guidance recommended.
Airports
How to reach Socorro by plane.
The closest major airport serving Bucaramanga; ground transport to Socorro typically takes about 2–3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Regular buses and private transfers connect the airport with Socorro.
Colombia’s largest international airport. Overland travel to Socorro can take 5–7+ hours by road; many travelers fly into Bogotá and transfer to Bucaramanga or take a longer bus ride. Domestic flights from Bogotá to Bucaramanga are frequent.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of local residents identify as mestizo, blending Indigenous, European and African ancestry; they form the social and cultural backbone of town life.
Smaller communities of Indigenous and Afro-Colombian people contribute to the cultural diversity of the region, especially in nearby rural areas.
Like many provincial towns, Socorro has a mix of older residents rooted in local traditions and younger people who may travel for education or work but maintain ties to the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia and widely played and followed in Socorro, with local matches and street football common.
Cycling and mountain biking are popular recreational activities due to the hilly terrain and scenic rural roads.
Equestrian activities remain a cultural pastime and a practical way to explore nearby countryside; many locals keep horses and guided rides are available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Socorro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited in traditional fondas where meat and pork fat are common; seek out cafés, vegetarian-friendly restaurants in town or ask for vegetable-based versions of soups and arepas. Specify no lard (sin manteca) and ask about broths made with meat.
Vegan choices are more limited — focus on fruit, salads, rice, corn-based foods and plantain. Ask clearly for no dairy or animal products and consider bringing snacks if you have strict needs.
Corn-based dishes (arepas, mute with corn) are often wheat-free but cross-contamination can occur; communicate your needs and prefer simple roasted meats, rice and grilled vegetables.