Things To Do
in La Florida
La Florida is a small town tucked into Colombia's tropical foothills, where emerald forests meet winding rivers. The town blends Andean and Amazonian influences in its cuisine, crafts, and daily rhythms. It serves as a gateway to nearby reserves, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints without the crowds of bigger cities.
Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals and a laid-back pace that invites slow exploration and day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh arepas and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the historic streets of La Florida, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the main plaza, where you can take photos of the beautiful church and interact with friendly locals.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the town's history by visiting the Museo de La Florida, where you can learn about the region's culture and traditions. For lunch, indulge in some traditional Colombian dishes at a nearby restaurant, enjoying the flavors of the region. Afterward, take a guided walking tour that highlights the stories behind the town's landmarks.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the plaza to relax and people-watch while enjoying a refreshing tropical juice. Choose a local eatery for dinner, where you can try a variety of regional specialties like sancocho or bandeja paisa. End your evening strolling through the town, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps catching a local music performance.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast packed with local fruits before setting off on a nature walk in the nearby forest reserves. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse bird species that call this area home, as La Florida is known for its rich biodiversity. Guided tours are available to help you spot some of the more elusive birds and learn about their habitats.
After a morning of birdwatching, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, indulging in fresh local produce. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush trails, discovering hidden waterfalls, and enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Don't forget to take plenty of photos to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Return to La Florida in the evening, where you can relax at a local café with a cup of hot chocolate made from locally sourced cacao. Reflect on the day's adventures while indulging in a slice of homemade cake or pastry. As night falls, consider visiting a nearby lookout point to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to pristine nature and authentic local culture
- Affordability and friendly, welcoming communities
- Compact town center that is easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Public transport can be slower; plan extra time for trips outside town
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "No entiendo" - I don't understand
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Quisiera una opción vegetariana" - I would like a vegetarian option
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in La Florida
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated overlook with sweeping views of the river valley and surrounding forests, especially dramatic at sunrise and golden hour.
Colorful storefronts, colonial-inspired architecture, and locals going about daily tasks create dynamic street photography opportunities.
Calm river scenes with fishing canoes and reflections; ideal for long exposure and portraiture against water.
Food in La Florida
La Florida Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting fish stew with river fish, yuca, plantain, and peppers, commonly found in river towns.
Must-Try!
Corn-based arepa stuffed or served with local cheese, a breakfast and snack staple.
Grilled river fish marinated with lime, garlic, and herbs, often served with rice and plantains.
A traditional Amazonian delicacy of tarantula larvae served with yuca; available at select street stalls or community gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market where you can taste fresh fruits, arepas, soups, and small plates from local cooks.
Seasonal street foods including fried plantains, empanadas, and fresh fish, best sampled during late afternoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.' Use usted with elders and when addressing strangers. Keep voice calm and maintain respectful distance in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in La Florida
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual eateries and markets, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% at nicer restaurants is common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small shops; many restaurants accept cards in town centers; ATMs are available in central areas and towns nearby.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect more sunny days with lower humidity and easier outdoor travel; great for hiking and riverside photography. Pack sun protection and light layers for cooler evenings.
Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity; trails can be slick and rivers rise. Bring a waterproof layer, quick-dry clothing, and sturdy waterproof footwear.
La Florida at Night
Hiking in La Florida
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and river trails offering birdwatching, river viewpoints, and seasonal wildflowers; guided hikes are available in season.
Airports
How to reach La Florida by plane.
Regional gateway serving Caquetá; domestic flights to Bogotá and other major cities, with ground transfer options to La Florida.
Major international hub for longer trips; most travelers transfer here for international connections.
Domestic airport providing convenient access to southern regions; combined trips to La Florida may involve road transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo residents along with nearby Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities contributing to local crafts, music, and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia, with informal games and local clubs active in the area.
Common in schools and community centers; pick-up games happen in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Florida.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, opt for bean-based stews, rice and lentils, plantains, yuca, fresh fruit, and vegetable salpicón. Request 'sin carne' or 'opción vegetariana' and ask for sauces on the side to control heat.