Things To Do
in Tauramena
Tauramena is a quiet town in the eastern Colombian plains (Llanos) within Casanare. It sits amid expansive savanna landscapes, cattle ranches, and winding river valleys that define daily life here. The town functions as a practical base for exploring the Llanos countryside and its warm, hospitable communities.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, farm-to-table flavors, and open skies that stretch for miles.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the bustling Plaza de Mercado, where local vendors display vibrant fruits and handmade crafts. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, savoring arepas and fresh coffee while watching the town come alive. After breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colonial architecture that tells the story of Tauramena's rich history.
In the afternoon, explore the local churches, such as the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, where you can appreciate the intricate designs and learn about the town's religious heritage. Visit the nearby Museo de Tauramena to delve into the local culture and history through various exhibits and artifacts. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, taking in the natural beauty surrounding the town.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Colombian dinner at a well-rated local restaurant, sampling dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. After dinner, immerse yourself in the local music scene by attending a live vallenato performance at a nearby venue. Wind down your evening with a stroll through the plaza, where you can feel the vibrant energy of Tauramena at night.
Begin your adventure with an early morning hike in La Serranía, a nearby mountain range known for its breathtaking landscapes. As you trek through the lush trails, keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna that thrive in this biodiverse area. Stop for a packed breakfast at a scenic viewpoint, allowing the stunning vistas to energize you for the day ahead.
Continue your exploration of La Serranía by reaching the summit, where panoramic views of the region will leave you in awe. Take some time to relax, have lunch at a picnic spot, and capture stunning photographs of the surrounding valleys and hills. On your descent, consider visiting a local coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the region's best brews.
Return to Tauramena in the evening and unwind at a local café, enjoying a refreshing drink as you reflect on your day of adventure. For dinner, choose a restaurant that showcases local specialties, allowing you to taste the unique flavors of the region. End your night with a stroll through the town, appreciating the warm hospitality of the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee / cappuccino | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🎟️Museum / attraction ticket | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Llanos culture and wildlife, friendly locals, good value for money, easy to explore by road
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure, some road conditions can be rough, hot and humid climate year-round
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Tauramena
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-open plains at dawn with soft light and long shadows across the savanna; a classic Llanos landscape.
Historic center square with colonial-influenced architecture, shaded promenades, and locals beginning evening routines.
Shallow river edges, reed beds, and birds; great for reflections and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Tauramena
Tauramena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mix of shredded beef, black beans, white rice, fried plantains, and cheese; a staple in Llanos households and commonly found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Cornmeal arepa, sometimes stuffed or topped with cheese or hogao, perfect for a quick bite on the go.
A robust stew featuring yucca, plantain, corn, and meat, commonly served with a side of arroz and salad.
River fish prepared simply—grilled or fried—with fresh herbs and lime; often paired with mandioca or cassava.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main municipal market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, and everyday staples—great for sampling local ingredients.
Casual vendors selling arepas, empanadas, fried plantains, and refreshing fruit juices—perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting, usually 'hola' or 'buenos días,' goes a long way. A handshake or a light kiss on the cheek may be common among acquaintances.
Dress modestly in town; avoid loud or aggressive behavior in public spaces. Show respect in religious or cultural sites.
Offer money or goods with the right hand; avoid showing discomfort or impatience in queues and markets.
Safety
Tipping in Tauramena
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small eateries. In restaurants, 5-10% is common if service is not included. Taxis and drivers may appreciate a small tip after longer rides.
Cash is widely used in markets and smaller establishments. Many larger restaurants and hotels accept cards; some rural vendors may be cash-only. Mobile payment options are growing where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright, mostly sunny days with clear skies. Ideal for outdoor activities and road travel, though some days can be hot and dusty.
Afternoons bring rain showers and higher humidity. Lush landscapes, but travel times may increase due to muddy roads and occasional flooding.
Tauramena at Night
Hiking in Tauramena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trail through low-lying savanna with opportunities to observe wildlife and broad vistas.
Easy trails along the river with birdwatching and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Tauramena by plane.
Regional hub with domestic flights to Bogota and Medellín; convenient gateway for onward travel to Tauramena.
Smaller regional airport serving the Casanare area; useful for nearby trips and charter flights; access by road from Tauramena.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mestizo with Afro-Colombian presence in towns and rural areas.
Sikuani and other indigenous communities are present in the broader Casanare region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and community leagues are common in towns like Tauramena.
Cultural rodeo events featuring horsemanship and cattle handling, reflecting Llanos traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tauramena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include arepas with cheese, cassava-based dishes, fresh salads, beans, and plantains. Communicate clearly with cooks; many places can adapt dishes, but meat-based broths are common—ask to confirm vegetables and starches in meals.