Things To Do
in Alvarado
Alvarado is a small Andean town tucked between rolling hills and coffee-colored valleys just outside Bogotá. Its brick-and-wood churches, color-washed houses, and friendly locals create a relaxed, country-town vibe. The surrounding landscapes offer easy access to nature, viewpoints, and farm visits without straying far from the capital.
Visitors come for fresh air, photogenic streets, and a taste of traditional Colombian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Alvarado, take some time to settle into your accommodation and soak in the first glimpses of this charming town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Colombian dishes like arepas and tamales. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque streets to get acquainted with Alvarado's serene atmosphere.
Visit the town's central park, where you can relax under the shade of mango trees and watch the locals go about their day. Explore artisanal shops selling handcrafted goods and local artwork. Grab a light lunch from a street vendor offering fresh empanadas and fruit juices that showcase the region's culinary delights.
As evening arrives, experience the vibrant nightlife in Alvarado. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in a variety of Colombian dishes. Finally, stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the cool breezes and the sounds of nature, perhaps catching a glimpse of local musicians performing.
Start your day with a trip to a nearby coffee plantation, where you'll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in a tasting session to experience the rich flavors of locally grown coffee. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding green hills as you savor your morning brew.
After your coffee experience, head to the scenic town of Manizales, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic vistas. Visit the iconic Cathedral of Manizales, then explore the local market for souvenirs and snacks. Have lunch at a restaurant that offers farm-to-table dishes sourced from the nearby region.
Return to Alvarado and make your way to a cozy café for a light dinner or dessert. Engage with locals and share stories about your day’s adventures over a hot cup of chocolate. As you wind down, consider sharing your experiences with fellow travelers or journal your thoughts from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus ride (short distance) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, safe small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and strong regional hospitality
- Reasonable costs and proximity to Bogotá for day trips
- Good base for coffee country and hill country exploration
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Fewer direct international flight options; longer travel times from abroad
- Some areas have limited Wi-Fi or cell service in rural routes
- Seasonal rain can affect certain outdoor activities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayúdeme, por favor" - Help me, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a good place to eat?
Places to Visit in Alvarado
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial façade buildings, flower stalls, and early-morning light make for classic street photography.
Colorful walls and architectural details framed by palm trees and benches.
A hilltop overlook just outside town with sweeping views of valley and distant mountains.
Shadows along the riverbank and reflections near the footbridges provide serene nature shots.
Food in Alvarado
Alvarado Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty potato and chicken soup with cassava and corn on the cob; best eaten with capers, cream, and avocado at traditional eateries near the plaza.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa with melting cheese; common at street stalls and markets, great with a hot drink.
Hearty stew made with locally raised meats and corn; found in family-run restaurants and at markets.
Steamed cornmeal dumplings filled with meat and vegetables; often sold by street vendors or at market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where farmers sell fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional snacks; look for tamales and arepas.
Rows of street stalls around the main square offering arepas, empanadas, and chicha beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A cordial handshake is common; address people with Señor/Señora or use usted in formal settings.
Arrive on time for appointments; being late is generally tolerated in social settings but better to communicate.
Casual but neat dress in town; avoid loud behavior in sacred or communal spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Alvarado
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service is commonly included or optional; if not, 5-10% is appreciated. For taxis and guides, rounding up is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny days with pleasant temperatures; keep hydrated, but occasional afternoon showers can occur.
Alvarado at Night
Hiking in Alvarado
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 2–4 hour hike to forest waterfalls with shaded paths and viewpoints.
Easy hillside trails with panoramic valley views suitable for sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Alvarado by plane.
Bogotá's main international gateway; about a 60–90 minute drive to Alvarado depending on traffic.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and some domestic flights; useful for private or charter travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo with some Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities in surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; informal games are common in plazas and community fields.
Hilly terrain makes for enjoyable road cycling and local cycling clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alvarado.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetable stews, arepas, and corn-based dishes. Ask for meatless options like lentil soup or veggie arepas; many places can adapt.