Things To Do
in Acandí
Acandí is a small coastal town in Colombia's Chocó Department, perched at the northern tip of the Gulf of Urabá. Its shoreline is a mosaic of palm-fringed beaches and bright waterfront houses with lively fishing boats. The town sits beside mangroves and nearby islands, making boat trips a daily rhythm for locals and visitors alike.
Visitors come for sea, nature, and Afro-Colombian culture, though infrastructure can be basic and travel here often requires patience and flexibility.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small coastal town of Acandí and settle into a quaint hotel near the beach. After checking in, take a leisurely stroll along the calm shores, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Enjoy a refreshing coconut water from a local vendor to kickstart your adventure.
Explore the nearby Parque Natural Tayrona, known for its breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity. Spend the afternoon hiking through lush trails, mingling with locals, and getting acquainted with the natural beauty of the region. Don't forget to sample some local cuisine at a nearby eatery.
As the sun sets on the horizon, head back to the town and dine at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood delicacies. Engage with local fishermen and learn about their daily lives while enjoying the sounds of the ocean waves. Conclude your night with a relaxing walk along the beach, stargazing and reflecting on the day's adventures.
After breakfast, take a boat trip to the pristine beaches of Playona, renowned for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning unwinding on the beach or swimming in the warm Caribbean Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, try out some snorkeling to witness the vibrant marine life.
Indulge in a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery. After lunch, join a guided tour to visit nearby mangroves, where you can observe diverse bird species and learn about the rich ecosystem. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
Return to Acandí and refresh yourself before heading out for dinner at a lively local restaurant. Experience the vibrant Caribbean nightlife, dancing to live music or enjoying a cultural performance. The night will wrap up with conversations with fellow travelers about the day's discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🛏️Lodging per night (budget hotel) | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Local coffee | $0.80-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Afro-Colombian culture and warm hospitality
- Untouched beaches and abundant marine life
- Low-key, friendly nightlife and scenic sunsets
- Reasonably affordable costs compared with larger coastal cities
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare options
- Some travel logistics can be slow and weather dependent
- Card payments are not universally accepted in small spots
- Seasonal sea conditions can affect boat trips
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos, por favor." - I would like a table for two, please.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Acandí
Visit one of these nice places.
Climb the short stairs to a cliffside lookout for sweeping views over the Gulf of Urabá at dawn or sunset.
Colorful fishing boats, palm trees, and market life provide vibrant, everyday coastal scenes.
Serene water channels, drifting reflections and birdlife ideal for nature photography.
Wide sandy shores with delicate patterns in the sand, perfect for minimalist seascapes.
Food in Acandí
Acandí Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coconut rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with fish or seafood.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught snapper fried and served with patacones and lime.
Rich seafood stew with coconut milk, peppers and herbs.
Fried plantains served with shredded fish or seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fish stalls, fresh fruit, arepas, and casual eateries by the water.
Street stalls along the bay offering grilled seafood and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting like Buenos días or buenas tardes goes a long way; a handshake is common.
Dress modestly in town; avoid loud display of wealth; ask permission before taking photos of people or homes.
Ask before photographing people, ceremonies, or private spaces.
Respect fishing days, family spaces, and local rituals; support local businesses and avoid littering.
Safety
Tipping in Acandí
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, check if a service charge is included; if not, 5–10% is common. For guides and hotel staff, tip small amounts in cash.
Cash in Colombian pesos is widely accepted; many places in Acandí do not take cards, especially small eateries and markets. Some larger restaurants may accept cards; ATMs are limited in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days, calm seas, great for beach days and boat trips; expect higher tourist presence and more reliable schedules.
Frequent showers and high humidity; sea conditions can be rougher and some trips may be delayed; dramatic skies and lush green landscapes offer different photo opportunities.
Acandí at Night
Hiking in Acandí
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes through coastal forest with opportunities to spot birds and small wildlife.
Moderate climb offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Urabá and surrounding coastline.
Airports
How to reach Acandí by plane.
Regional airport with flights to Medellín and Bogotá; access to Acandí typically requires a road and boat transfer.
Small coastal airstrip offering limited flights from major cities; from Capurganá you can reach Acandí by boat.
Largest nearby hub in the Chocó region with longer flight options; downstream travel to Acandí may require road and boat connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core cultural influence in Acandí, shaping music, cuisine, and everyday life.
Nearby areas include Indigenous communities; the region is culturally diverse with a blend of traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in neighborhoods, beaches, and informal leagues.
A traditional livelihood and leisure activity along the coast.
Casual games on sandy shores during the dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Acandí.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but most dishes center on seafood; look for rice, beans, plantains and vegetable stews; ask for sin carne or sin pescado; request preparation without fish sauce.