Things To Do
in El Zulia

El Zulia is a charming municipality located in the Norte de Santander department of Colombia, known for its rich culture and beautiful landscapes. This small town is surrounded by lush mountains and offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle of larger cities. The community is warm and welcoming, showcasing a blend of traditional Colombian heritage and modern influences.

With its picturesque surroundings and vibrant local life, El Zulia provides an authentic Colombian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring El Zulia
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza Principal, where you can enjoy breakfast at a local café and soak in the morning ambiance.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops and artisan markets, and visit the nearby La Iglesia San José to admire its architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant featuring traditional Colombian cuisine and enjoy a stroll through the town, possibly catching a local event or live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a guided hike to the nearby Sierra de los Motilones, enjoying the breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a local farm to learn about coffee production and enjoy a tasting session.

evening
:

Relax at a local bar where you can enjoy traditional drinks and share stories with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee$1.50
🚕Taxi ride$3
🛒Groceries for a week$20
🍺Local beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Colombian cultural experience
  • Stunning natural landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
  • Transportation can be challenging in rural areas
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in El Zulia

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Principal

The town's main square, surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for capturing local life.

Sierra de los Motilones

A breathtaking mountain range offering stunning vistas and natural beauty.

Iglesia San José

A beautiful church with unique architecture, ideal for capturing both exterior and interior shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in El Zulia

El Zulia offers a delightful culinary experience influenced by its rich agricultural surroundings. Visitors can savor local flavors in various traditional dishes and fresh produce.

El Zulia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter consisting of beans, rice, avocado, fried plantains, ground meat, and chorizo.

Must-Try!

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes which can be grilled, baked, or fried, often served with cheese or meat.

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with fish, chicken or beef, plantains, and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de El Zulia

A vibrant local market where fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks can be found.

Street food stalls

Stalls offering delicious local snacks like empanadas and buñuelos.

Climate Guide

Weather

El Zulia has a tropical climate, characterized by a wet and dry season. The dry season lasts from December to March, offering sunny weather and comfortable temperatures. The wet season runs from April to November, with increased rainfall, particularly in October. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly hug is common among acquaintances.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Colombian culture.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

El Zulia is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious when exploring less populated areas. It's advisable to travel in groups, especially at night, and to stay informed about local safety advisories.

Tipping in El Zulia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments may accept credit cards; always check beforehand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts more tourists, so expect crowded attractions.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures bring vibrant colors to the landscape, ideal for photography.

Winter

Rainy season may lead to muddy trails; plan hikes accordingly.

Nightlife Guide

El Zulia at Night

El Zulia offers a cozy nightlife scene with local bars and small clubs featuring live music and dance. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. Many locals gather to enjoy traditional drinks like aguardiente and local beers, creating a vibrant social experience.

Hiking in El Zulia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Paz

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the region, suitable for all skill levels.

Sendero de la Montaña

A challenging trail that takes you through thick forests and leads to a breathtaking viewpoint.

Airports

How to reach El Zulia by plane.

Cúcuta International Airport

Located approximately 40 km from El Zulia, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, providing access to major Colombian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

El Zulia is relatively walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance in the town center. The roads are generally safe for pedestrians, and the town's small size makes it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions outside of the main area may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizos

The majority of the population is of mixed Indigenous and European descent, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Indigenous Groups

Small communities of Indigenous peoples are also present, preserving their traditional customs and practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in El Zulia, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity among locals, with many enjoying rides through the picturesque countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in El Zulia is generally light, with most transportation being by foot or local taxis. Public transportation options include shared taxis and buses, which are affordable and connect to nearby towns. However, during peak hours, congestion may occur on main roads leading to Cúcuta.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting El Zulia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many traditional dishes can be adapted to vegetarian preferences; ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free

Arepas are a great option for gluten-free diets, as they are made from corn.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in El Zulia are basic, with a few clinics and hospitals available for minor medical issues. For more serious health concerns, traveling to larger cities like Cúcuta may be necessary. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide