Things To Do
in Girardot

Girardot is a vibrant city located in the Cundinamarca department of Colombia, known for its warm climate and beautiful landscapes. It is a popular weekend getaway for locals from Bogotá, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure. The city is also famous for its thermal hot springs and a lively cultural scene, making it an attractive destination for tourists.

With its historical architecture and proximity to the Magdalena River, Girardot provides a unique experience for visitors seeking both leisure and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parque Principal, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café while soaking in the local atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Cathedral of Girardot, a beautiful example of colonial architecture, followed by a stroll along the Magdalena River to enjoy scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and experience traditional Colombian cuisine, followed by a walk around the town square to enjoy live music and street performances.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the Termales El Oasis for a morning of relaxation in the thermal hot springs, surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a guided canoe tour along the Magdalena River, exploring the lush landscapes and local wildlife.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant, followed by enjoying the vibrant nightlife at local bars and clubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
🍺Domestic Beer$2
Coffee$1.50
🚕Taxi Fare (within city)$3
🛒Groceries (weekly)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and vibrant local life.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited options for high-end dining and luxury accommodations.
  • Traffic congestion can occur during peak times.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Girardot

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Principal

A picturesque park with lush gardens and colonial architecture, perfect for capturing local life.

Magdalena River

Scenic views and sunsets along the river offer stunning photo opportunities.

Cathedral of Girardot

A striking architectural landmark that provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Girardot

Girardot offers a delightful array of culinary experiences that reflect the rich culture of Colombia, from traditional dishes to vibrant street food.

Girardot Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty dish consisting of beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, and plantains.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with meat, plantains, yuca, and corn, often served on special occasions.

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried, often served with cheese or meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Plaza de Mercado

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and street food stalls offering local delicacies.

Street Vendors

Various vendors selling snacks such as empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Girardot has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The wet season typically runs from April to November, with the driest months being December to March. Humidity can be high, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; use 'usted' for formal situations and 'tú' with friends.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is acceptable, but try to be on time for formal events.

Respect for Culture

Understanding and respecting local customs, especially during festivals, is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Girardot is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid displaying valuables and prefer well-lit areas. Using registered taxis or rideshare services is advisable for transportation, particularly after dark. It's also recommended to keep emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Girardot

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is common to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Rainy Season (April to June)

Frequent rain showers; be prepared with waterproof gear, but the landscape is lush and green.

Mid-Year (July to August)

Milder temperatures and occasional rain, good for exploring local attractions.

Festive Season (December)

A lively time with numerous festivals and cultural events, but it can be crowded.

Nightlife Guide

Girardot at Night

Girardot's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city comes alive after dark, especially on weekends when locals and tourists gather for socializing. Popular spots often feature traditional Colombian music, salsa dancing, and refreshing cocktails. The atmosphere is generally safe and welcoming, making it a great place to experience local culture.

Hiking in Girardot

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro del Agua

A scenic hiking trail with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Río Claro Canyon

A beautiful natural reserve with trails along the river, ideal for hiking and exploring nature.

Airports

How to reach Girardot by plane.

El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

Located in Bogotá, this is the nearest major airport, offering national and international flights. It is about 80 km (50 miles) from Girardot, making it accessible for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Girardot is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly zones exist, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have steep hills that could be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Girardot, attracted by its recreational opportunities and family-oriented environment.

Weekend Tourists

The city sees a significant influx of tourists from Bogotá, especially on weekends, who come for relaxation and entertainment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Girardot, with local teams and community matches attracting enthusiastic fans.

Cycling

The city has a growing cycling community, with many residents using bikes for commuting and leisure.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Girardot can be congested during rush hours, particularly on weekends when visitors flock to the city. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with taxis being a convenient way to navigate the city. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, especially along the river.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Girardot.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for no meat or fish.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire about ingredients in dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Girardot provide basic medical services, with some clinics and hospitals available for emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. For serious health issues, larger hospitals in Bogotá may be necessary, which is approximately a 2-hour drive away.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide