Things To Do
in Uripa

Uripa is a small Andean town in central Colombia known for its coffee farms and colonial charm. It sits among green hills and winding rivers, offering a relaxed pace and scenic views. The town hosts lively markets, traditional music, and welcoming locals who invite visitors to taste fresh produce and coffee.

Visitors come for easy day trips into cloud forests, cultural workshops, and a warm sense of community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Uripa, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Don't forget to visit the Plaza de Bolívar, the heart of the city, where you can observe locals going about their day.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, delve deeper into Uripa's rich history by visiting the local museum, which showcases artifacts from the indigenous cultures that once thrived here. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. Afterward, take a guided walking tour to learn about the historical significance of various landmarks throughout the town.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a rooftop bar to soak in stunning views of the landscape while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local salsa club where you can dance the night away with locals. Cap off your evening with a delightful street food dinner, trying out empanadas and buñuelos from food vendors.

day 2
Adventure in the Coffee Region
morning
:

Begin your day early with a trip to a nearby coffee farm where you can witness the coffee-making process firsthand. Enjoy a guided tour of the plantation, learning about the cultivation and harvesting of Colombian coffee while sipping freshly brewed cups. Engage with the farmers and gain insight into their daily lives and traditions.

afternoon
:

After the farm visit, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery, featuring dishes that pair well with coffee, such as grilled meats and fresh salads. Post-lunch, participate in a coffee tasting session where you can sample various blends and learn how to identify unique flavors. Take a short hike around the farm to appreciate the stunning mountainous landscapes of the region.

evening
:

Return to Uripa in the late evening, taking time to relax and reflect on your day. Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Colombian dishes while mingling with fellow travelers. As night falls, take a stroll through the town square, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere under the starry sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$12-22
🏨3-star hotel per night$40-90
🚗Taxi ride (short distance)$2-6
Coffee at cafe$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to nature with easy access to coffee country
  • Friendly locals and authentic cultural experiences
  • Affordable overall costs
  • Good opportunities for day trips and hikes
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
  • Hilly terrain can be tiring for some walkers
  • Connectivity and services may be slower in outlying areas
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cómo está usted?" - How are you?
  • "¿Dónde está el centro?" - Where is the center?
  • "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ayuda" - Help

Places to Visit in Uripa

Visit one of these nice places.

Catedral de Uripa

Imposing white stone church set in a sunny plaza ideal for morning light.

Mirador de los Andes

A hillside overlook with sweeping views of coffee terraces and cloud forest.

Calle Colorida

A street of vibrantly painted houses perfect for vibrant street photography.

Ribera del Río

Sunset riverbank scenes with boats and lush riverbanks.

Culinary Guide

Food in Uripa

Uripa cuisine blends Andean staples with fresh farm produce and regional coffee. Expect hearty soups, maize based dishes, and fried snacks popular at markets, all often accompanied by excellent coffee.

Uripa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ajiaco Andino

A hearty chicken and potato soup with local herbs, a staple in Andean towns.

Must-Try!

Tamales Uripenos

Corn dough filled with meat and vegetables, wrapped and steamed in plantain leaves.

Sancocho de Gallina

Woodsy chicken stew with corn on the cob and plantains, perfect for cooler evenings.

Arepas de Maiz

Stone ground corn arepas stuffed with queso fresco or served with hogao sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Uripa

A lively market where locals shop for coffee, fresh fruit, cheese and cooked street foods.

Street Food

Empanadas, arepas, buñuelos and fresh fruit smoothies available along the market streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town enjoys a mild, cool climate year round due to its elevation. Expect average daytime temperatures in the mid teens to low twenties Celsius, with cooler nights and a distinct rainy season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Greet everyone with a friendly hello or buenos días; a handshake is common, hugs or kisses on the cheek among friends.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety includes staying aware of petty crime in crowded markets, use reputable transport, avoid traveling alone at night in unlit areas, and keep valuables secure. Travel insurance is advised.

Tipping in Uripa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants a tip of around 5-10 percent is appreciated; larger establishments may include service. Round up taxi fares.

Payment Methods

Cash in local currency is widely accepted; major cards are usable in hotels and restaurants; some markets and small vendors prefer cash or mobile wallets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season

Dry months bring clear skies and comfortable hiking conditions, but evenings can be chilly.

Rainy season

Frequent afternoon showers, lush greenery, and higher humidity; pack rain gear and waterproof footwear.

Nightlife Guide

Uripa at Night

Uripa offers a quiet, intimate nightlife with small bars featuring live vallenato and cumbia, craft cocktails and riverside venues. Expect friendly locals and family friendly evenings more than clubbing crowds.

Hiking in Uripa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero de la Ruta de las Nubes

Cloud forest trail with lookout points and birdlife; moderate difficulty.

Cascada del Sol Trail

Short hike to a sunlit waterfall with swimming holes.

Cerro Piedra Grande

Steep climb to a rocky summit offering panoramic valley views.

Airports

How to reach Uripa by plane.

Pereira Matecaña International Airport

Regional hub for central Colombia with connections to Bogota and Medellin; about a few hours drive to Uripa depending on route.

Armenia El Edén International Airport

Gateway to the coffee region with domestic flights; convenient for shorter trips to nearby towns.

Cali Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport

Larger international gateway with many domestic options and a longer drive to Uripa.

Getting Around

Walkability

The historic center is compact and walkable with well marked plazas. Hilly approaches and uneven sidewalks can slow movement, so wear sturdy shoes and bring a map.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo

Major portion of residents with mixed indigenous and European ancestry.

Indigenous communities

Small surrounding communities with cultural crafts and traditions.

Elderly and families

Many residents are families who enjoy markets and church events on weekends.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular spectator and participation sport across the region.

Tejo

Traditional Colombian target sport played outdoors with explosive fun.

Cycling

Hilly rural roads attract cyclists for scenic rides through coffee country.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in the town center with buses and taxis as main transport. Inbound and outbound travel can see bottlenecks during morning and late afternoon, use established routes and avoid night travel in unfamiliar areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Uripa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most markets offer beans, lentils and mushroom dishes. Ask for maize based soups and veggie stews and request no meat stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics in town with a larger regional hospital in the area. Private doctors and pharmacies are common, and international travelers should have travel insurance.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide