Things To Do
in Caldono

Caldono is a small town located in the Cauca Department of Colombia, nestled within the Andean mountains. Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, Caldono serves as a gateway to various outdoor adventures. The town is predominantly inhabited by indigenous communities, preserving their traditions and way of life.

Visitors can experience the warmth of local hospitality, as well as the vibrant colors and sounds of its markets and festivals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh fruits and traditional foods.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to nearby indigenous communities to learn about their customs and crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then attend a cultural dance performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike the beautiful trails of the nearby national park, observing the diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a coffee plantation to learn about coffee production in the region.

evening
:

Relax at a local café, enjoying the sunset and reflecting on your day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚌Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel per Night$20
🥑Street Food Snack$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and traditions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Safe and friendly local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Caldono

Visit one of these nice places.

Caldono Main Square

Capture the vibrant life of the town with its colorful buildings and local gatherings.

Surrounding Mountains

Stunning panoramic views of the Andean mountains, perfect for landscape photography.

Local Festivals

Photograph the colorful traditional costumes and celebrations during local festivals.

Culinary Guide

Food in Caldono

Caldono offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage and agricultural bounty.

Caldono Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ajiaco

A traditional Colombian soup made with chicken, potatoes, and corn, served with avocado.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A hearty stew made with meat, plantains, yuca, and vegetables, perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Caldono Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food snacks.

Street Arepas

Try the crispy arepas filled with cheese or meat from local street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Caldono experiences a temperate climate with mild temperatures year-round. The rainy season occurs from April to November, while the dry season is from December to March. Daytime temperatures typically range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), while nights can be cooler, dropping to around 10°C (50°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A warm handshake or a friendly hug is common; always greet locals with a smile.

Respect for Traditions

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially in indigenous communities.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is acceptable, but it’s good to inform if you’ll be significantly delayed.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Caldono is generally safe, visitors should remain vigilant and take common safety precautions. Avoid displaying valuables openly and be cautious in less populated areas at night. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions and follow the guidance of locals.

Tipping in Caldono

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if service is not included on the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is predominantly used, but some places accept credit cards; ensure to have Colombian pesos.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather; ideal for hiking and exploring local attractions.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying the lush green landscapes.

Winter

Colder nights with clear days; a good time to enjoy warm local dishes and cozy cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Caldono at Night

Caldono's nightlife is relatively low-key, with local bars and cafés offering a relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy traditional music performances, dance, and social gatherings at community events. While there aren't large clubs, the friendly ambiance allows for a delightful evening with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Caldono

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Chorrera Trail

A scenic trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for a day hike and enjoying nature.

Páramo de las Hermosas

A challenging hike through unique Andean ecosystems, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Caldono by plane.

Guillermo León Valencia Airport

Located in Popayán, this airport is the closest major airport, offering domestic flights and connections to other regions.

Getting Around

Walkability

Caldono is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town's layout encourages strolling through its streets, where you'll encounter local shops, markets, and parks. Sidewalks are generally available, but be cautious of uneven surfaces in some areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Caldono is home to several indigenous groups, who preserve their cultural traditions and languages.

Afro-Colombian Population

A significant Afro-Colombian community contributes to the town's cultural diversity and richness.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Caldono, with many locals passionately following their favorite teams.

Tejo

Tejo is a traditional game where players throw metal discs at a target filled with gunpowder; it's a fun local pastime.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Caldono is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and commonly used for longer distances. Be mindful of road conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Caldono.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian upon request; just ask the chef.

Gluten-Free Foods

Most traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free; confirm with the vendor for safety.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Caldono is limited to small clinics and local pharmacies. For more serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Popayán, which is about an hour away. Always carry travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facilities.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide