Things To Do
in El Águila

El Águila is a small town nestled in the lush mountains of Colombia, known for its stunning natural beauty and welcoming community. The town is characterized by its charming colonial architecture and vibrant local culture, making it a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Surrounded by coffee plantations and breathtaking landscapes, El Águila offers visitors a unique glimpse into rural Colombian life.

The area is particularly famous for its coffee production, contributing to Colombia's reputation as a top coffee producer worldwide.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring El Águila
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the central plaza, where you can enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby coffee farms, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the best brews.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the town to appreciate its lively atmosphere and perhaps catch a local music performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and the vibrant flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, and interact with the local artisans.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a cultural event or a dance at a local community center, experiencing the rich traditions of El Águila.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
☕️Coffee (local)$1
🍲Meal at a local restaurant$5
🍺Local beer$2
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget accommodation per night$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and coffee plantations.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Limited healthcare facilities.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in El Águila

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza

A picturesque square surrounded by colonial buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of El Águila.

Coffee Plantations

The lush green fields of coffee plants offer stunning landscapes that are ideal for nature photography.

Mirador del Alto de la Cruz

A viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, a must-see for photographers.

Culinary Guide

Food in El Águila

El Águila offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Colombian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

El Águila Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty dish consisting of beans, rice, ground meat, plantains, avocado, and a fried egg.

Must-Try!

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be grilled or fried and filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meats, or vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de El Águila

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors offering snacks like empanadas and arepas.

Climate Guide

Weather

El Águila enjoys a temperate climate, characterized by mild temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with cooler nights. The region experiences a wet and dry season, with the wet season seeing more rainfall, particularly from April to November, while December to March is drier and sunnier.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly greeting is common; it's polite to greet shopkeepers when entering a store.

Personal Space

Colombians are generally warm and friendly, but maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas; casual attire is acceptable in most settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

El Águila is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas at night. Petty crime can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs. Following local advice and being respectful of customs can enhance your safety.

Tipping in El Águila

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants, although some places may include a service charge.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas; ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Be prepared for frequent rains; however, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, making it a beautiful time for photography.

Festive Season (December)

The town celebrates various local festivals with parades and cultural events, offering a unique experience.

Coffee Harvest Season (October to December)

During this time, you can participate in coffee picking and learn more about the coffee production process.

Nightlife Guide

El Águila at Night

El Águila has a modest nightlife scene primarily centered around local bars and community events. Most nightlife activities occur on weekends, featuring live music, traditional dance, and local gatherings. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with a focus on socializing rather than loud parties.

Hiking in El Águila

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero El Mirador

A popular trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the valley, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Cerro de las Tres Cruces

A challenging hike that rewards trekkers with stunning views of the Andes and surrounding landscapes.

Airports

How to reach El Águila by plane.

Matecaña International Airport (PEI)

Located approximately 45 kilometers from El Águila, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, making it the closest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

El Águila is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the town at a leisurely pace. The cobbled streets are pedestrian-friendly, although some areas may be hilly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Coffee Farmers

A significant demographic involved in coffee cultivation, contributing to the local economy and culture.

Artisans

Local artisans produce handmade crafts and goods, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in El Águila, with local teams playing regularly and community support for matches.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity, both as a sport and a mode of transportation, with beautiful routes available around the town.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in El Águila is minimal due to its small size, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Public transportation is available in the form of local buses and taxis, which are economical and convenient for reaching nearby areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting El Águila.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple in Colombian cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in urban areas.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited, but many dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as arepas and various soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in El Águila is basic, with a few small clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious medical care, travelers may need to visit larger towns or cities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide