Things To Do
in Guamal

Guamal is a charming municipality located in the Meta department of Colombia, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Nestled between the Andes and the plains, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional Colombian life. The town is characterized by its friendly locals, colorful architecture, and rich agricultural surroundings.

Guamal is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience away from the bustling tourist hotspots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh fruits.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of a nearby coffee plantation, learning about the coffee-making process and tasting local brews.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant, enjoying local dishes like bandeja paisa while soaking in the live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike through the nearby La Macarena National Park, taking in stunning views and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the scenic waterfalls, where you can relax and have a picnic surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Return to town for a casual dinner at a local eatery, followed by an evening stroll through the town square.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$2
🏨Hotel Night$30
🛍️Souvenir$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience away from typical tourist spots.
  • Rich natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Public transportation 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 Guamal

Visit one of these nice places.

La Macarena National Park

Famous for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature photography.

Guamal Town Square

Capture the vibrant colors of the town's architecture and the lively atmosphere of local life.

Coffee Plantations

Picturesque views of rolling hills covered in coffee plants, ideal for capturing the essence of Colombian culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guamal

Guamal offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Guamal Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, avocado, fried egg, chorizo, and plantains, showcasing the region's flavors.

Must-Try!

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried, often served with various fillings or toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Guamal Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and snacks, perfect for tasting local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guamal has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The dry season typically sees less rainfall, while the rainy season can bring heavy downpours, especially in the afternoons. Humidity remains high throughout the year, making it feel warmer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Warm greetings are common; a handshake or a friendly 'hola' is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal; it's considered polite.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guamal is generally considered safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Drinking bottled water and being cautious about street food can help prevent health issues.

Tipping in Guamal

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some places 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 sunny days, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Frequent rain showers can occur; however, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, great for photography.

Festive Season (December)

Experience local festivities and Christmas celebrations, with vibrant decorations and traditional music.

Harvest Season (June to August)

A great time to visit coffee plantations and learn about the coffee harvest process.

Nightlife Guide

Guamal at Night

Guamal's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafes offering live music and entertainment. The town comes alive during weekends, with locals gathering to enjoy drinks and socialize. Traditional music and dance can often be found, providing a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region.

Hiking in Guamal

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Paz Trail

A scenic trail that leads to a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for all skill levels.

Las Gachas Trail

A more challenging hike that takes you through lush vegetation and along a river, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Guamal by plane.

La Vanguardia Airport (VVC)

Located approximately 90 km from Guamal, it serves domestic flights and is the closest airport for accessing the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Guamal is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to easily explore the area on foot. The town's layout is simple, with well-defined streets and pedestrian-friendly pathways.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Farmers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, particularly coffee and other crops.

Artisans

Many locals engage in traditional crafts, contributing to the cultural heritage and economy of Guamal.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Guamal, with local teams and matches drawing community support.

Cycling

The scenic roads around Guamal offer great opportunities for cycling, both for leisure and competitive events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Guamal is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and can be used to reach nearby areas. However, road conditions may vary, and caution is advised when traveling outside the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guamal.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be customized to be vegetarian, with fresh vegetables and grains available.

Gluten-Free Choices

Arepas and many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for gluten-sensitive travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Guamal is limited to local clinics and small hospitals. For serious conditions, traveling to larger cities like Villavicencio may be necessary. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and to know the location of nearest medical facilities.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide