Things To Do
in Castilla La Nueva

Castilla La Nueva is a vibrant municipality located in the Meta department of Colombia, known for its rich agricultural landscape and friendly local community. With its proximity to the picturesque Llanos region, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Colombian culture and the beauty of the plains. The municipality is characterized by its warm climate, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round.

Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, explore nature, and engage with the hospitable residents who are eager to share their traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Castilla La Nueva
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh fruits and typical Colombian breakfast dishes like arepas and huevos pericos.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of nearby farms to learn about the region's agriculture and participate in activities like horse riding or cattle herding.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the town square, where you can experience live music and socialize with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Ecological Park to enjoy bird watching and hiking trails that showcase the region's biodiversity.

afternoon
:

Explore the local historical museum to gain insights into the cultural heritage of Castilla La Nueva.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant featuring traditional dishes and then enjoy a lively night at a local bar or dance club.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$2
🛒Grocery shopping (basic items)$20
🎟️Entry to a local attraction$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Transportation options may be less frequent.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Castilla La Nueva

Visit one of these nice places.

Ecological Park

A stunning location with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for capturing the beauty of Colombia's natural landscape.

Town Square

The heart of the town, lively with locals and adorned with beautiful colonial architecture.

Llanos Plains

Wide open spaces offering breathtaking sunset views and the chance to photograph local wildlife.

Culinary Guide

Food in Castilla La Nueva

Castilla La Nueva's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Colombian flavors and local agricultural produce, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Castilla La Nueva Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bocachico

A traditional river fish, typically fried or grilled and served with rice and plantains.

Must-Try!

Arepa de Huevo

A corn cake stuffed with egg and often served with a spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Plaza de Mercado

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Castilla La Nueva has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs around 30°C (86°F) and lows around 20°C (68°F). The dry season, from December to March, offers sunny days, while the rainy season, from April to November, brings heavier rainfall and increased humidity. Despite the rains, temperatures remain relatively stable, making it a year-round destination.

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 are generally warm and may stand closer than what some cultures consider personal space.

Punctuality

While social events may start later than scheduled, it's best to be on time for business meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Castilla La Nueva is generally safe for tourists, with a friendly local population. However, standard safety precautions should be observed: avoid displaying valuables, stay in well-lit areas at night, and be cautious when using ATMs. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Castilla La Nueva

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants, especially if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside, with clear skies and minimal rain.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Expect frequent rains, which can make some outdoor activities challenging; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Festive Season (December)

Experience local festivals and holiday celebrations, with vibrant decorations and cultural events.

Harvest Season (July to September)

A great time to visit local farms and participate in harvest activities, enjoying the freshest produce.

Nightlife Guide

Castilla La Nueva at Night

The nightlife in Castilla La Nueva is vibrant, with a range of options from lively bars to dance clubs featuring traditional Colombian music. Locals often gather to socialize, dance, and enjoy live performances, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to join in the fun.

Hiking in Castilla La Nueva

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra de la Macarena

A stunning national park nearby, offering numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.

Parque Natural Sumapaz

Home to beautiful hiking routes through paramo landscapes, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Airports

How to reach Castilla La Nueva by plane.

La Vanguardia Airport (VVC)

Located approximately 90 km away in Villavicencio, this airport serves regional flights and is the closest major airport to Castilla La Nueva.

Getting Around

Walkability

Castilla La Nueva is quite walkable, particularly in the town center, where most amenities, restaurants, and shops are located within a short walking distance. The flat terrain and friendly atmosphere make exploring on foot enjoyable. However, for attractions outside the town center, public or private transportation may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Agricultural Workers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, contributing to the region's economy and cultural identity.

Indigenous Communities

Local indigenous groups contribute to the cultural diversity of the region, preserving traditional practices and crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A popular recreational activity, many locals enjoy cycling through the scenic countryside.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in the region, with local teams playing regularly and community events often centered around games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Castilla La Nueva is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are reasonably priced. It's advisable to check local schedules, as bus service may not run as frequently as in larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Castilla La Nueva.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent in local cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly based on rice and legumes.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited, but traditional dishes like arepas are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Castilla La Nueva is available through local clinics and hospitals offering basic services. For more severe medical needs, larger hospitals in nearby cities may be necessary. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical evacuation if needed.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide