Things To Do
in Trinidad
Trinidad, Colombia sits on the Llanos plains where grasslands meet winding rivers, offering a laid-back gateway to Colombia's eastern frontier. The town hums with cattle ranching, river life, and a welcoming, rural charm that invites slow exploration. Warm temperatures, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife define daily life here, especially during the dry season when light is golden and skies are clear.
Visitors should expect friendly locals, authentic regional cuisine, and opportunities for river safaris and nature observation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Trinidad's Plaza de Bolívar, a picturesque square surrounded by colonial architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. As the sun rises higher, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the vibrant colors of the buildings and the local art displayed along the way.
After lunch, delve into Trinidad's rich history at the Museo de Arte Moderno, where you can appreciate works from Colombian artists. Continue your exploration by visiting the iconic Iglesia de San Francisco, marveling at its stunning baroque architecture and beautiful altar. Spend the late afternoon shopping for handicrafts at the local market, where you can find unique souvenirs and interact with friendly vendors.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant for dinner, savoring local dishes like sancocho and bandeja paisa. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as local musicians perform traditional Colombian music, inviting you to join in on the dance. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk through the charming streets, soaking in the lively ambiance of Trinidad at night.
Embark on a guided tour of a nearby coffee farm, where you'll learn about the coffee cultivation process from bean to cup. Experience the breathtaking views of lush green hills as you walk through the plantations, breathing in the rich aroma of coffee. Engage with the farmers, who will share their passion for coffee and the importance of sustainable practices.
After the tour, enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch featuring local ingredients paired with freshly brewed coffee. Participate in a coffee tasting session, where you'll learn to discern different flavors and aromas in various coffee blends. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the serene surroundings, perhaps taking a short hike to explore the nearby nature trails.
Return to Trinidad in the evening and unwind at a local café with a slice of Colombian cake. Share stories with fellow travelers about your day while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. As night falls, take a moment to appreciate the starry sky, a perfect way to end a day filled with rich flavors and experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🧭Local transit ticket (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, authentic small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Warm, friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Limited tourist infrastructure and occasional travel bottlenecks
- Seasonal variability in transportation and services
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda, por favor" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Trinidad
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-open horizons, long shadows, and grazing cattle create dramatic silhouettes during the golden hour.
Calm river reflections, boats, and birdlife offer tranquil composition opportunities at dawn or dusk.
Soft light on colorful colonial-era buildings and early-morning activity provides authentic street scenes.
Food in Trinidad
Trinidad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fried corn cake stuffed with a fried egg in the center; a popular street snack found at markets and stalls.
Must-Try!
River fish grilled with minimal seasoning, often served with yucca, rice, and plantains.
Charcoal-grilled beef typical of Llanos cooking, served with sides such as cassava or plantains.
A traditional corn-based side or dessert, sometimes enjoyed with cheese or milk.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh river fish, fruits, yuca, plantains, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Street stalls selling arepas, empanadas, fried snacks, and local sweets—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; in rural areas a brief kiss on the cheek may be used among friends; show politeness when meeting new people.
Ask permission before entering homes or taking portraits; be patient and personable in conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or conservative spaces; avoid loud behavior in public and in sacred spaces.
Always ask before photographing people, especially Indigenous or rural residents; give a friendly explanation of your purpose.
Safety
Tipping in Trinidad
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips are appreciated for guides, drivers, and service staff; 5–10% in restaurants if no service charge is included.
Cash (COP) is widely used; many places accept local cards, and some accept mobile payments or transfers; carry small denominations for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mornings are typically sunny with clear skies; days are hot and humid, ideal for river activities and outdoor exploration.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; trails may be muddy—carry rain gear and quick-dry clothing.
Transition period with variable rainfall; wildlife viewing can be excellent as water levels fluctuate.
Trinidad at Night
Hiking in Trinidad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short forest or grassland trails offering wildlife viewing and river vistas.
Expansive plains walks at dawn or dusk with opportunities to observe birds and mammals.
Airports
How to reach Trinidad by plane.
A small domestic airport serving local flights and river traffic; schedules may be limited.
Major international gateway with connections to Colombia and beyond; from BOG you can reach most regional towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic with mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
Smaller communities in the region with distinct cultural traditions and languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; games are common on weekends in plazas and parks.
Traditional Llanos activities; local events feature riders and cattle-handling demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trinidad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Trinidad, you can rely on plantains, beans, rice, yuca, fresh fruit, and vegetable sides; request dishes without meat or fish when needed.
Options may be limited; focus on fruits, beans, rice, salads, and vegetables; clearly communicate no animal products to cooks.
Many grilled fish/meat dishes with rice and plantains are naturally gluten-free; verify sauces and avoid cross-contamination.