Things To Do
in Cumaral

Cumaral is a charming municipality located in the Meta department of Colombia, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant local culture. It is surrounded by rolling hills and is often referred to as a gateway to the Llanos, the vast plains that are home to diverse wildlife. The town's warm climate and friendly locals make it an inviting destination for travelers seeking authenticity.

Cumaral is also a hub for agricultural activities, particularly cattle ranching and farming.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Cumaral
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying arepas and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, visit the central plaza to appreciate the local architecture and greet friendly locals.

afternoon
:

Explore local artisan shops and markets, where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. Visit the nearby scenic viewpoints for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

evening
:

Dinner at a local restaurant serving regional dishes, followed by a stroll through the plaza where you might catch a community event or live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided nature walk in the nearby natural reserve, where you can observe native flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

Visit a local farm to learn about sustainable agricultural practices and participate in a traditional cooking class. Enjoy the meals you prepare together.

evening
:

Relax at a local bar or cafe, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and perhaps a game of dominoes with the locals, followed by a light dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚌Bus fare within town$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$20
🛒Groceries for a week$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic local culture and friendly people
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation options may be scarce
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me gustaría..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Cumaral

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza

The heart of Cumaral, the plaza features beautiful colonial architecture and is often alive with local events.

Llanos Viewpoints

Scenic viewpoints around the town offer stunning vistas of the expansive Llanos and breathtaking sunsets.

Local Farms

Capture the essence of rural life with picturesque landscapes and traditional farming practices.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cumaral

Cumaral offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its rich agricultural heritage and local flavors.

Cumaral Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty dish featuring rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, and plantain.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A traditional chicken or beef stew made with yuca, potatoes, and plantains, perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cumaral Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and street food vendors selling delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cumaral experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from December to March and a rainy season from April to November. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The dry season is characterized by clear skies and bright sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities. In contrast, the rainy season brings afternoon showers, creating lush green landscapes and cooler temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet people when entering shops or restaurants.

Personal Space

Colombians tend to stand closer during conversations, so be mindful of this cultural norm.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; locals appreciate a neat appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cumaral is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep valuables secured. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of nearby hospitals, and stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Tipping in Cumaral

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, although some establishments may accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect warm, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Be prepared for afternoon showers; this is also when the countryside is lush and green.

Holiday Season (December)

Experience vibrant local festivals and cultural events, with increased activity in the town.

Harvest Season (July to August)

Join in on local agricultural fairs celebrating the harvest with food, music, and dance.

Nightlife Guide

Cumaral at Night

Cumaral has a laid-back nightlife scene characterized by small bars and cafes where locals gather to socialize. Music, especially vallenato and salsa, often fills the air, and it’s common to find live performances on weekends. Although the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, it offers an authentic experience where you can mingle with locals and enjoy traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Cumaral

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Paz Trail

A moderate hike that leads to a hilltop offering panoramic views of Cumaral and the surrounding countryside.

La Quebrada Trail

This trail winds through lush vegetation and offers opportunities for birdwatching and encountering local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Cumaral by plane.

La Vanguardia Airport (VVC)

Located in Villavicencio, about 30 km from Cumaral, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities in Colombia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cumaral is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the town's layout is straightforward, making navigation easy.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Cumaral is home to several indigenous groups who contribute to the cultural richness of the area and are involved in agriculture and handicrafts.

Agricultural Families

The majority of the population consists of families engaged in farming and livestock raising, which is the backbone of the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular in Cumaral, with many locals participating in community matches and supporting local teams.

Tejo

Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport where players throw metal discs at targets, often played in social settings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cumaral is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation mainly consists of buses and motorcycles, which are inexpensive and a common way to travel. However, for more distant locations, hiring a taxi or using a ridesharing app is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cumaral.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional dishes often include meat, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian diets with prior notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cumaral includes a local clinic that provides basic medical services. For more serious health issues, residents typically travel to larger cities like Villavicencio, which is about an hour away and has more comprehensive medical facilities. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide