Things To Do
in Tenerife
Tenerife, Colombia is a tranquil highland town set among rolling coffee hills and fertile valleys. It blends colonial charm with vibrant markets and welcoming locals. Outdoor scenery dominates the landscape, with viewpoints, waterfalls, and coffee plantations just a short drive away.
The climate remains mild year round, making it an inviting base for exploring the region's nature and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Colombian arepas paired with fresh coffee. Afterward, meander through the cobblestone streets of Tenerife's historic center, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't miss visiting the local market to experience the lively atmosphere and sample some local fruits.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Church of San Francisco, where you can admire its stunning baroque architecture and peaceful surroundings. Following this, enjoy a guided tour of the Casa de la Cultura, where you can learn about the region's rich cultural heritage and its role in Colombian history. Stop at a nearby restaurant for a lunch of fresh seafood, enjoying the local flavors.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the main plaza, where locals gather to enjoy music and dance. Find a cozy spot at an outdoor café to sip on some aguardiente while trying out traditional Colombian snacks. Cap off the evening by watching a local cultural performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of exploration in Parque Natural de Tenerife. Head out early to hike one of the park's scenic trails, surrounded by lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Be on the lookout for native bird species and other wildlife that inhabit this stunning natural area.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas within the park, taking in the majestic landscape around you. Spend the afternoon visiting the park's visitor center to learn more about its ecosystems and conservation efforts. If time permits, take a short guided nature walk to discover more about the flora and fauna of the region.
As evening approaches, make your way back to town and stop at a local eatery for dinner featuring authentic Colombian dishes. Enjoy the warm ambiance and perhaps share stories with fellow travelers about your adventures in the park. End the day with a quiet evening stroll, reflecting on the beauty of nature you've experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket (one-way) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to coffee region scenery and friendly locals
- Safe and walkable town center with good food options
- Limited big-city nightlife
- Smaller tourism infrastructure than Cartagena or Bogota
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in Tenerife
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook with sweeping views of valleys and distant mountains.
Historic plaza with colonial architecture and colorful storefronts.
Waterfall trail with multiple cascades set in forested scenery.
Fields and terraces ideal for sunrise and golden hour photos among coffee plants.
Food in Tenerife
Tenerife Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa with cheese, a popular breakfast or snack option.
Must-Try!
A generous platter featuring rice, beans, plantain, chicharron, sausage, avocado, and egg.
Traditional soups that show up on many menus, perfect for cooler evenings.
A creamy seafood stew common in coastal influence areas but available in regional restaurants.
Fried arepa stuffed with egg, a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Municipal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and regional snacks.
Stalls selling the ripe date palm fruit chontaduro with honey and crunchy wafers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is standard; locals may greet with a cheek kiss among friends; address elders with señor or señora.
Ask permission before entering religious or indigenous sites and avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Keep voices moderate on the streets and avoid blocking sidewalks in groups.
Safety
Tipping in Tenerife
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and hotels; 5-10 percent is typical for good service; round up for small services.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take cards; ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with low humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Afternoons bring rain showers; mornings are often clear; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Tenerife at Night
Hiking in Tenerife
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep climb with panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Waterfall route with multiple cascades and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Tenerife by plane.
Cali international airport, typically 2-3 hours by road from Tenerife depending on traffic.
Pereira regional airport serving the coffee area, convenient for weekend trips.
Cartagena's airport offering international connections, farther but useful for combined itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Tenerife town and surrounding rural communities; mix of ages.
Visitors drawn to coffee culture, nature, and rural scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and casual play in parks are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tenerife.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based soups, grains, salads, and fruit; ask for no meat stock and vegetable broth when available.