Things To Do
in Astrea

Astrea is a small but vibrant town in the Cesar Department of Colombia, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush hills and agriculture, primarily known for its cattle ranching and crop production. Astrea's local community is warm and welcoming, offering visitors an authentic Colombian experience.

Visitors can enjoy local festivals, traditional music, and the breathtaking scenery that characterizes this charming town.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Astrea
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can sample fresh fruits and traditional pastries. Then, take a walking tour of the town to appreciate its colorful colonial architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby ranches to learn about cattle farming. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant featuring authentic Colombian cuisine.

evening
:

Relax in the town square, enjoying live music and mingling with locals. Sample street food like arepas and empanadas while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape and wildlife. Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan workshop to see traditional crafts being made, and perhaps purchase a souvenir. Have a leisurely lunch at a café with local delicacies.

evening
:

Join a cultural event or performance if available, or head to a local bar for a taste of Colombian aguardiente and to enjoy the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$4
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi Ride$2
🍕Street Food Snack$1
🛒Groceries for a Week$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Colombian cultural experience
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Less access to international cuisine
  • Public transportation options may be limited
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Astrea

Visit one of these nice places.

Astrea Town Square

Captivating colonial architecture and vibrant local life make this a perfect spot for photos.

Hills Surrounding Astrea

Breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Local Ranches

Capture the essence of rural Colombian life with beautiful landscapes and traditional farming scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Astrea

Astrea offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich culture of Colombia, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Astrea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty dish including rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, and plantains.

Must-Try!

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be filled or topped with a variety of ingredients.

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with meat, vegetables, and plantains.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Astrea Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors offer delicious treats like empanadas, arepas, and freshly squeezed juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Astrea experiences a warm climate throughout the year with a tropical feel. The dry season from December to March is characterized by warm temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) during the day. The rainy season from April to November brings more humidity and temperatures averaging 26°C (79°F). Nights generally cool down to around 18°C (64°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Personal Space

Colombians may stand closer when conversing than in some other cultures; this is normal.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and neatly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending formal events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Astrea is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure. Be cautious in less crowded areas and always be aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Astrea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants, though it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred in many local businesses, though larger establishments may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - March)

Expect warm weather; perfect for outdoor activities and exploring.

Rainy Season (April - November)

Frequent afternoon rains; good for enjoying indoor cultural experiences.

Festive Season (December)

Experience local festivities and vibrant celebrations, especially around Christmas.

Harvest Season (June - October)

Witness the agricultural activities; a great time to see local farming practices.

Nightlife Guide

Astrea at Night

Astrea has a lively nightlife scene centered around its local bars and community events. While not as bustling as larger cities, locals enjoy gathering in the town square, where live music and dancing often take place. You can find bars offering traditional drinks like aguardiente, and some venues host music performances, making for a fun and authentic night out.

Hiking in Astrea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de los Santos

A popular hiking destination offering trails with varying difficulty levels and rewarding views.

Parque Natural de los Samanes

A beautiful nature park with well-marked trails and opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Astrea by plane.

Alfonso López Michelsen Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Astrea, this airport serves regional flights and connects to major cities in Colombia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Astrea is a small town that is quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. The streets are generally safe for pedestrians, and the local community is friendly towards visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant portion of Astrea’s population engages in agriculture, particularly cattle ranching.

Artisans

There is a vibrant community of artisans who produce traditional crafts and artworks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a favorite pastime in Astrea, with local teams playing in community fields.

Cycling

The surrounding countryside offers great opportunities for cycling enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Astrea is generally light, with few vehicles on the roads. Public transportation consists mainly of buses and taxis; however, many locals prefer to walk. It’s advisable to avoid traveling during peak hours if using public transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Astrea.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is popular, you can find vegetarian dishes like soups and salads.

Gluten-Free Options

Arepas and many local dishes are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Astrea is adequate, with a local clinic available for basic medical needs. For more serious medical issues, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide