Things To Do
in Támesis
Támesis is a scenic town in the Antioquia region of Colombia, perched in the foothills of the Andes and a gateway to lush coffee country. It lies roughly an hour from Medellín by road, surrounded by green valleys, farms, and winding rivers. The town offers a relaxed pace, colorful plazas, and a strong coffee culture that welcomes visitors with warm hospitality.
Visitors can explore nearby waterfalls, markets, and viewpoints while enjoying the region's fresh air and mountain scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Plaza de Bolívar, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture surrounding the square. Grab a traditional breakfast of arepas and fresh fruit juice from a local vendor to energize yourself for the day ahead. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Church of San Juan Bautista, an impressive structure filled with beautiful artworks and historical significance. Afterward, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional dishes like bandeja paisa. As the sun begins to set, take a scenic walk along the riverbanks, immersing yourself in the lush landscapes.
In the evening, unwind at a cozy café where you can savor a cup of Colombian coffee while reflecting on your day's adventures. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps join in a traditional music session if one is happening. End your day with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, appreciating the starry skies overhead.
Set off early for a guided tour of a nearby coffee plantation, where you'll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in hands-on activities like picking coffee cherries and grinding beans, gaining a deeper appreciation for this beloved Colombian export. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee at the plantation, surrounded by the breathtaking lush hills of the region.
After your farm tour, indulge in a farm-to-table lunch featuring local ingredients at the plantation's restaurant. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful coffee-growing region, taking in the stunning views and perhaps even hiking a nearby trail. Capture the essence of the region's beauty through photography or sketching.
Return to Támesis and treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try specialty dishes paired with local wines. Spend the evening mingling with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and experiences. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a vibrant local festival or event to enjoy.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.75-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain scenery and peaceful tempo
- Warm hospitality and accessible coffee culture
- Good value for money and diverse day trips
- Proximity to Medellín for day trips and airport access
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Rural roads can be seasonal and uneven
- Smaller healthcare facilities requiring travel for advanced care
- Some areas are hilly and require comfortable footwear
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Támesis
Visit one of these nice places.
The colorful central plaza with the church and vibrant storefronts makes for bright, lively street photography.
A hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views over Támesis and surrounding valleys, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Photograph the river's gentle curves and ferries passing by; early morning light adds a soft glow.
Nearby waterfalls and forest trails provide dramatic shots of cascades, mist, and green scenery.
Food in Támesis
Támesis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter of rice, beans, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, sausage, and egg—popular in Antioquia and a great way to sample regional flavors.
Must-Try!
A comforting chicken stew with corn on the cob, plantains, yuca, and herbs.
Stuffed corn cake with cheese and hogao (tomato-onion sauce) for a tasty, portable bite.
Crispy fried pork served with yuca and salsa; a favorite in countryside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market stalls offering fresh fruit like lulo, guanábana, mango, and coffee beans; try freshly pressed juice and arepas.
Empanadas, arepas, and corn-based snacks sold along the main streets; pair with agua fría or coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hola' and a handshake or kiss on the cheek in informal settings; use 'usted' with elders and strangers.
Small talk about family, coffee, and local life is appreciated; avoid discussing sensitive political issues in casual settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; in rural areas, avoid loud behavior and keep voices at a moderate level.
Safety
Tipping in Támesis
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip is appreciated in restaurants if service is not included; for street food and markets, rounding up is common; for taxi rides, a small tip is optional.
Cash (COP) and cards are widely accepted in towns; many places also accept mobile payments; carry local currency for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry-season conditions with warm days and cooler nights; expect clear skies in the mornings and possible showers in the late afternoon.
In late spring and autumn, expect frequent rain showers; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear; trails may be slippery.
Támesis at Night
Hiking in Támesis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop trail from town leading through coffee farms with panoramic valley views.
Shaded forest track with streams and birdwatching opportunities, suitable for a half-day hike.
Trail to nearby waterfalls with lush vegetation and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Támesis by plane.
Located near Rionegro, about 40-70 minutes from Támesis by road; major international gateway for the region with frequent connections to Bogotá, Medellín, and abroad.
Medellín's domestic airport offering regional flights; useful for quick connections to nearby cities and towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Colombian families, farmers, and service workers; a growing number of visitors and day-trippers from Medellín.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime, with local matches and informal play across town fields.
Popular among locals who ride the winding hills and scenic routes around Támesis.
Common in schools and community courts, especially during evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Támesis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options such as bean dishes, arepas, tortillas, salads, and plantains; ask for no chorizo or meat, and request 'sin carne'.