Things To Do
in Altos del Rosario

A bustling morning market where vendors sell fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs and prepared foods; try local juices, empanadas and arepas here.

Evening or weekend stalls near the plaza offering simple hot dishes, snacks and sweet treats — a great place to sample homemade flavors and chat with locals.

Greet people with a polite 'buenos días' or handshake; using formal titles (Señor/Señora) is common until you’re invited to be more informal.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or work settings—many appreciate being asked and may pose.

Show deference to elders, accept local hospitality gracefully, and remove shoes if invited into a private home when the host indicates.

Dress modestly in rural and church settings; beachwear is fine at coastal spots but not in town plazas or churches.

Tipping is modest and discretionary in small towns—around 5–10% in sit-down restaurants if service is good, and small change to taxi drivers or helpful porters is appreciated. Many local eateries won’t expect a tip; leave it for exceptional service.

Cash (Colombian pesos) is king in Altos del Rosario—smaller shops and markets often do not accept cards. ATMs may be limited, so bring enough cash from the nearest city. Debit/credit cards are accepted in few places; mobile payments are not widely used in rural settings.

Expect sunnier days, lower rainfall and dusty rural roads; best time for hiking, road travel and outdoor photography. Evenings are more comfortable and river levels are lower.

Increased showers can make dirt roads muddy and some trails slippery; vegetation is lush and vibrant for nature photography but plan extra travel time.

Temperatures remain warm with variable rainfall; popular local festivals sometimes occur in this period—check event calendars. Mosquito activity can be higher after rains.

Another wetter period with heavier showers at times; rivers rise and some rural access routes may be limited. Good for birding and green landscapes but bring waterproof gear.

A short, moderately steep hike from town up to a viewpoint that rewards visitors with panoramic shots of farmland, nearby hills and the town below—good for sunrise or sunset.

Network of dirt tracks around local farms ideal for gentle day hikes, birdwatching and seeing rural life; trails are best explored with a local guide or farmer's permission.

Trails along seasonal rivers and riparian zones that offer cooler microclimates, opportunities for birding and natural pools for a refreshing swim in drier months.

If you travel a bit further, the Montes de María area offers more extensive hiking with varied terrain, native flora, and cultural sites; check local guides and access conditions before setting out.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with larger cities; typical go-tos are rice, fried plantain, soups without meat (request without meat), eggs and vegetable stews. Ask for 'sin carne' or explain 'soy vegetariano/a' and be specific about avoiding stock made with meat.

If you have seafood allergies, be explicit—many kitchens use shared oil or stock. Spanish phrases and vigilance are important; carry an allergy card in Spanish if necessary.