Things To Do
in Los Patios
Los Patios is a small town just outside Cúcuta, Colombia, offering a warm blend of colonial charm and modern Colombian life. Set in the Andean foothills, it features lively markets, colorful plazas, and friendly residents. It serves as a gateway to Norte de Santander’s river valleys, hills, and cultural communities.
Visitors can expect approachable, budget-friendly experiences and easy day trips to the regional hub of Cúcuta.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious Colombian breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and fresh fruit. After breakfast, embark on a walking tour of the historic center, where you’ll admire the colorful colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t forget to stop by the Plaza de los Deseos, a hub of cultural activity and local life.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo de Antioquia, home to an impressive collection of contemporary art, including works by the renowned Fernando Botero. After exploring the museum, take a leisurely stroll through Parque Berrio and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can try traditional bandeja paisa, a hearty local dish.
As the sun sets, head to a rooftop bar for stunning views of the city and a taste of local craft beers. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Los Patios. End your evening with a traditional Colombian dish at a cozy restaurant, immersing yourself in the rich flavors of the region.
Begin your day early with a scenic drive to a nearby coffee farm, where you’ll learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup. Participate in a hands-on coffee picking experience, and discover the intricacies of growing and harvesting coffee. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee made from the farm’s beans while soaking in the beautiful landscape.
After your coffee tour, indulge in a traditional lunch at the farm, featuring local ingredients and flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush surroundings on a guided nature walk, where you can spot local wildlife and learn about the ecosystem. Capture breathtaking photos of the stunning vistas and vibrant flora along the way.
Return to Los Patios in the evening and grab dinner at a local restaurant, where you can share stories of your coffee adventure with fellow travelers. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar for a taste of Colombia's famous aguardiente, a traditional anise-flavored liquor. Relax and unwind as you reflect on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Cúcuta and border regions for day trips
- Affordable dining and easy to navigate
- Friendly local hospitality and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Many services concentrated in Cúcuta; long trips for certain amenities
- Seasonal rain can affect outdoor plans
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Puede recomendar un plato típico?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in Los Patios
Visit one of these nice places.
The town square with colorful colonial facades, fountains, and local life providing dynamic daytime and golden-hour shots.
Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic views of the valley and the town; ideal for sunset photography.
Scenic riverside paths and pedestrian bridges with reflections and local wildlife.
Food in Los Patios
Los Patios Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa often served warm with cheese; a staple snack and breakfast item.
Must-Try!
Fried corn pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and spices; a popular street food.
Hearty chicken or pork stew with plantains, yuca, and corn; commonly served with rice.
Fried river fish paired with crunchy fried plantain slices (patacones).
Sweet dairy caramel spread and a variety of fresh fruit drinks to cool down on warm days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling local market offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and prepared snacks; great for affordable bites and to observe daily life.
Rotating stalls selling arepas, empanadas, fried yuca, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a cheek kiss among friends; address strangers with formal usted until a closer relationship forms.
Dress modestly in religious or traditional spaces; avoid loud behavior in quiet neighborhoods and markets; show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Los Patios
Ensure a smooth experience
In larger restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is not already included. In casual cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving small coins is acceptable. Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries. Many restaurants and hotels accept cards; ATMs are available in Cúcuta. Card payments are common in tourist-facing spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with abundant sunshine; pleasant evenings. Good for outdoor activities, but bring water and sun protection.
Afternoon showers are common; plan for quick rain gear, flexible schedules, and potential muddy trails.
Los Patios at Night
Hiking in Los Patios
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-clad hill just outside the town with a manageable 1–2 hour round trip offering city views.
Riverside trail with viewpoints and picnic spots along the Pamplonita river.
Airports
How to reach Los Patios by plane.
Primary gateway to the region; about a 20–40 minute drive from Los Patios depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, and local workers; many commute daily to Cúcuta for work and services.
Cross-border workers and people from nearby towns seeking trade and employment opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and casual play in parks and plazas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Patios.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most vegetarian options are plant-based or dairy-heavy; look for bean dishes, rice with vegetables, cheese-based arepas, and salads; ask for meat-free broths and request egg or cheese as protein when needed.