Things To Do
in Amagá

The emblematic Antioquian platter of beans, rice, chicharrón (fried pork belly), ground meat, chorizo, avocado, fried egg and arepa — widely available at local restaurants and fondas.

Must-Try!

A comforting meat-and-vegetable soup (chicken, beef or fish versions) served with plantain and corn; common in local eateries and a good option on rainy days.

Corn arepas and fried empanadas make for great street snacks available at markets and small stalls around the plaza.

Slow-cooked beans with pork and plantain, a staple of local home cooking — find it at family restaurants and markets.

Local market stalls near the town center sell fresh fruit, arepas, empanadas and small plates; ideal for trying quick street snacks and buying fruit juices or local cheeses.

On weekends the plaza and nearby streets host food vendors offering regional sweets, grilled meats and coffee — great for sampling a variety of small bites.

A friendly handshake or a single cheek kiss (between acquaintances) is common when meeting; always greet shopkeepers and neighbors when entering small establishments.

Show respect in conversation, avoid loud or aggressive behavior in public spaces and be polite when photographing people—ask permission first.

Dress modestly when entering churches and rural homes; avoid overly revealing attire in small towns and during religious events.

Social gatherings can be relaxed about time, but guided tours and transport should be treated punctually; confirm bookings in advance.

Tipping is appreciated but not always compulsory in small towns. In restaurants a 10% service charge may be added — check the bill; if not included, leaving 5–10% for good service is common. Tip tour guides, drivers and porters modestly in cash (a few thousand COP or the equivalent).

Cash (Colombian pesos) is widely used, especially at markets, small restaurants and rural businesses; ATMs are available in town but carry adequate cash for day trips. Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted at some larger restaurants and hotels, but connectivity can be inconsistent—always confirm before relying on card payment.

Short hikes through working coffee farms offer easy-to-moderate walks, opportunities to learn about cultivation and scenic views of the valley.

Trails along small rivers and canyons near Amagá lead to streamside pools and minor waterfalls—best after dry days and with local guidance.

Local paths up to viewpoints above the town are typically short but steep; they reward hikers with panoramic valley vistas at sunrise or sunset.

Unpaved rural loops connecting villages and farms make for longer walks or runs and are suitable for exploring traditional countryside life; wear sturdy shoes and carry water.

Main international airport serving Medellín, located in Rionegro—about 1–1.5 hours by car depending on traffic. From MDE you can take a taxi, shuttle or bus toward Medellín and then connect to Amagá by regional bus or private transfer.

A smaller domestic airport in Medellín (closer to the city center) handling regional flights; travel into Medellín and then take regional transport or hire a taxi to Amagá (usually 45–90 minutes depending on route).

Vegetarian options are available but more limited than in big cities; order dishes based on beans, rice, plantain, arepas, salads and egg-based plates. Ask for bandeja paisa without meat (request more beans, avocado and arepa) and seek out cafes that can prepare vegetable-based sandwiches or rice plates.

Vegan choices require more effort—markets and fruit stalls are reliable for fresh produce, and some restaurants will accommodate requests to omit dairy and eggs if you explain clearly. Carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Corn-based foods (arepas, many empanadas) are naturally gluten-free; ask about cross-contamination in fried items. Most traditional dishes are rice- or corn-based rather than wheat-based.

Explain allergies in Spanish where possible; bring translations written down. Smaller kitchens may have limited understanding of cross-contact risks.