Things To Do
in Solano

Solano is a small municipality in Caquetá, southeastern Colombia, perched along forested riverbanks and rolling hills. The town blends tropical rainforest surroundings with a growing agricultural economy and a warm, welcoming pace of life. Visitors can explore riverfront markets, nearby reserves, and cultural communities that color the region.

Solano serves as a gateway to the Amazonian foothills and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Solano
morning
:

Fly into the scenic town of Solano, nestled in the lush landscapes of Colombia. After checking into your charming accommodation, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets to soak in the local culture. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional Colombian arepas.

afternoon
:

Explore the local artisan market, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the rich heritage of the region. As you wander, interact with friendly vendors and learn about their crafts. Stop for lunch at a local eatery, enjoying fresh ingredients and traditional dishes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a rooftop bar for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Indulge in tropical cocktails while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. End the evening with a traditional Colombian dance performance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

day 2
Exploration of the Amazon Jungle
morning
:

Embark on an early morning guided jungle expedition into the Amazon rainforest. The sounds of wildlife will greet you as you explore lush trails and discover unique flora and fauna. Listen to your guide share stories about the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch in the midst of nature, giving you the chance to experience the tranquility of the jungle. Afterward, participate in a bold adventure such as zip-lining or canoeing through the pristine waters of the Amazon. Capture stunning photographs of the diverse wildlife that surrounds you.

evening
:

Return to Solano for a relaxing evening at your accommodation. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local ingredients and recipes that showcase the flavors of the Amazon. As the day winds down, reflect on your adventures and prepare for another exciting day ahead.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🍽️Three-course meal for two$25-40
🏨Budget hotel per night$25-60
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$3-6
Coffee at cafe$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Abundant natural beauty and wildlife.
  • Warm, welcoming locals and authentic cultural experiences.
  • Affordability and value for money.
  • Compact town center that's walkable and easy to navigate.
  • Limited healthcare facilities in Solano; major care requires travel to Florencia or beyond.
  • Infrastructure can be uneven; some roads are affected by rain.
  • Smaller nightlife scene and fewer big-city amenities.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
  • "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
  • "¿Puede recomendarme un guía?" - Can you recommend a guide?

Places to Visit in Solano

Visit one of these nice places.

Río Caquetá al atardecer

Golden-hour reflections on the river with silhouettes of trees and local boats.

Plaza Central de Solano

Civic heart of town with colorful facades, colonial touches, and morning activity.

Mirador del Cerro Solano

Panoramic view over the valley and surrounding rainforest from a gentle overlook.

Culinary Guide

Food in Solano

Solano’s cuisine draws on river fish, yuca, plantains, tropical fruits, and coffee. Dishes emphasize hearty, comforting flavors with fresh ingredients from river and forest ecosystems.

Solano Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pescado del Caquetá a la parrilla

Grilled river fish with garlic, lime, and herbs, served with rice and fried plantains.

Must-Try!

Sancocho caqueteño

A robust stew with yuca, plantains, corn on the cob, and chicken or beef.

Arepa de maíz o yuca

Corn or cassava arepa enjoyed with hogao, cheese, or refried beans.

Casabe con queso

Cassava flatbread paired with fresh cheese, a simple staple in rural areas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Solano

Central market offering fresh produce, herbs, coffee, and regional snacks; a great place to sample local bites.

Street food corners

Empanadas, arepas, yuca frita, and fresh fruit juices near the market lanes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Solano experiences a tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures year-round, high humidity, and regular rainfall. Average daily highs are in the mid-20s to low-30s Celsius, with cooler evenings near the river. Expect microclimates depending on elevation and proximity to forests and rivers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and manners

Handshake with eye contact; greet with warmth. Use polite forms: Señor/Señora and gracias is appreciated.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly in towns; respectful attire when visiting religious sites or Indigenous communities. Ask permission before photographing people.

Community and punctuality

Small talk and patience are valued; arriving a bit late is common in social settings—keep a relaxed attitude.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travel with a local guide for rainforest excursions and avoid isolated areas after dark. Keep valuables secure in markets, be aware of petty theft, and stay informed about regional travel advisories. Health precautions include staying up to date on routine vaccines and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.

Tipping in Solano

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service isn’t included. Small tips to guides or drivers are common for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in towns, but cash (COP) is still important in markets and rural spots. Keep smaller bills on hand for local purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (roughly June–August)

Expect sunny days with lower rainfall, ideal for outdoor walks and river excursions. Humidity remains high, so stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.

Rainy season (roughly March–May and September–November)

Frequent showers and muddy trails; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a compact rain layer and waterproof shoes.

Nightlife Guide

Solano at Night

Nightlife in Solano is low-key and friendly, centered around riverside bars and small venues. Expect casual live music, local dancing, and gatherings that emphasize community and conversation rather than club culture. Safety is generally good in central areas, but standard streetwise precautions apply after dark.

Hiking in Solano

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascadas del Caquetá Trail

Riverside hike leading to scenic waterfalls and natural pools; moderate difficulty and rewarding views.

Cerro Solano Summit Trail

Short but steep climb offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding rainforest.

Reserva Natural Trails

Guided forest trails in nearby reserves with abundant wildlife and plant diversity.

Airports

How to reach Solano by plane.

Florencia Alvaro Lleras Camargo Airport (Florencia)

Primary gateway to Caquetá; frequent regional flights and connections to major cities; transfer to Solano by road.

San Vicente del Caguán Regional Airport

Regional airport serving southeastern Caquetá with limited flights; access to Solano via road.

Getting Around

Walkability

Solano’s core is compact and walkable, with the main plaza and markets within easy reach on foot. Some outlying sights require short taxi or guided transport, and riverside paths can be uneven. The area is best enjoyed on foot during the day when visibility and safety are higher.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo/White

Majority urban and rural residents contributing to the town’s daily life and economy.

Indigenous communities

Nearby Indigenous groups contribute rich traditions and languages; Spanish is dominant, with residual indigenous languages in some communities.

Afro-Colombian communities

Small but vibrant communities along rivers and rural zones, adding cultural diversity to the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (soccer)

The most popular sport; local games and informal pickup matches are common in parks and schools.

Basketball

Played in community centers and school courts; a common pastime in the rainy season when outdoor activities are limited.

Fishing and river sports

River-based activities and fishing are popular along the Caquetá and adjacent waterways.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in the town center and river lanes are primary transport routes for longer trips. Road conditions vary, with some rural routes becoming muddy during the rainy season. Public transport is available but limited; many travelers hire local guides or taxis for longer hops.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Solano.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available through bean dishes, yuca, plantains, vegetables, and fruit. When dining out, ask for plant-based preparations or salads, and communicate clearly that you don’t want fish or meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics exist in Solano, with more comprehensive care available in Florencia or larger cities. For specialized treatment or emergencies, plan transfers to larger facilities and carry health insurance information and important medications.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide