Things To Do
in Suaza
Suaza is a small highland town in the Huila department, set among rolling hills and coffee groves. Its streets blend colonial charm with the warm hospitality of local residents. The town serves as a quiet gateway to nearby nature, farms, and traditional crafts.
Visitors can enjoy fresh coffee, relaxed plazas, and easy access to surrounding valleys that showcase rural Colombia at its most approachable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, where you can savor traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Suaza, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Don't forget to visit the central plaza, where local artisans often display their crafts.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo de Suaza, where you can learn about the area's rich history and culture through interesting exhibits. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. After lunch, explore the nearby Parque de los Fundadores, where you can relax under the shade of trees and watch the locals go about their daily routines.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local eatery to enjoy a dinner of fresh trout, a regional specialty. Afterward, take a walk around the plaza to experience the lively atmosphere, with locals gathering to socialize and enjoy street performances. End your day with a sweet treat from a local vendor, such as obleas or buñuelos.
Embark on an early morning trip to a nearby coffee farm, where you will be greeted with a warm cup of coffee and a guided tour. Learn about the coffee cultivation process, from planting the seeds to harvesting the beans, as you stroll through the lush plantations. Participate in a coffee tasting session, where you can savor the rich flavors of locally grown coffee.
Enjoy a hearty lunch provided by the farm, featuring ingredients sourced from their own garden, which enhances the authenticity of the experience. After lunch, delve deeper into the coffee-making process by trying your hand at brewing your own cup. The afternoon can be spent exploring the picturesque surroundings, taking in the stunning views of the Andes mountains.
Return to Suaza in the evening and relax at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s experience. For dinner, venture out to a local restaurant known for its traditional Colombian cuisine, where you can enjoy dishes like tamales or lechona. Cap off the night with a walk through the town, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and starry skies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel (per night) | $10-25 |
| 🧃Bottle of water or soft drink | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and welcoming locals
- Access to rural coffee culture and scenic landscapes
- Limited nightlife and developed tourist infrastructure
- Rural transport can be less predictable than big cities
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Suaza
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square with colonial-era buildings and a church backdrop; ideal for dusk photography and candid street scenes.
A hilltop viewpoint just outside the town offering sweeping views of the valley and coffee fields, perfect for sunrise shots.
Photogenic streets near the church with colorful façades and local life passing by, especially in the late afternoon light.
A vantage point where the river bends through the landscape; great for wide-angle river shots and nature photography.
Food in Suaza
Suaza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Corn-based tamales stuffed with pork, peas, and vegetables, commonly steamed in plantain leaves and enjoyed at markets or family gatherings.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa cooked on a griddle, often served with butter or cheese and enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
Hearty chicken stew with plantains, yuca, corn, and herbs, typically served with rice and lime.
A regional corn- and potato-based soup variant commonly found in the area, offering a comforting, flavorful broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods; try the daily specials and fresh fruit juices.
A cluster of informal food stalls around the plaza offering arepas, tamales, empanadas, and fried treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a friendly kiss on the cheek in informal settings. Use polite forms (usted) with elders and official figures. Allow locals to lead conversations and avoid loud behavior in quiet areas or sacred sites. Always ask before taking photos of people or inside homes.
Safety
Tipping in Suaza
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service in restaurants, cafes, and guided tours. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common. Cash tips are widely accepted; many places also accept cards, but some rural vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From December to March, days are typically sunny and dry, making outdoor activities comfortable. Nights can be cool, so bring a light jacket and sunscreen for daytime exploration.
From April to November, expect regular showers, especially in the afternoons. Bring a compact rain jacket, waterproof footwear, and plan indoor activities for wetter days.
Suaza at Night
Hiking in Suaza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short forested trail leading to a waterfall; suitable for a half-day hike and photography.
A lookout ridge offering expansive views of the coffee valleys and distant ranges; best at sunrise or late afternoon.
Airports
How to reach Suaza by plane.
Nearest regional airport serving Neiva and the surrounding area; typically reachable by road in about 1.5-2 hours from Suaza.
Regional airport serving the southern part of Huila; driving time to Suaza is longer but useful for certain routes.
Major international hub for long-haul flights; from Bogotá, you can connect to Neiva or Pitalito for onward travel to Suaza.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The population is predominantly Mestizo with presence of nearby Indigenous groups in the broader region; cultural influences appear in crafts, music, and local customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in schools, clubs, and informal pick-up games in plazas.
Scenic country roads attract recreational cyclists and local clubs.
Common in schools and community centers; local leagues occasionally organize matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suaza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many mercados and cafés offer vegetarian options like arepas, beans and rice, plantain dishes, and seasonal vegetables. If a dish includes meat, ask for a vegetarian version or substitutions; most places are accommodating with notice.