Things To Do
in Los Santos
Los Santos is a highland town set in the Andean valleys of Colombia, surrounded by coffee plantations and cloud-kissed peaks. Its colonial-era streets wind between colorful houses, market corners, and friendly faces that reflect the warm Santanderese hospitality. The town serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, from waterfall hikes to scenic viewpoints overlooking steep valleys.
Expect cool mornings, vibrant plazas, and a rhythm of life rooted in tradition and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the beautiful Plaza de Los Santos, surrounded by charming colonial architecture and vibrant flowers. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Los Santos, where you can admire the intricate stained glass and take in the peaceful atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab a local breakfast of arepas and fresh coffee from a nearby café.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the Museo de Arte Moderno, where you can explore Colombian contemporary art and learn about local artists. Afterward, make your way to the nearby Parque del Libertador, enjoying the lush greenery and local street performers. Stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant and savor the flavors of bandeja paisa, a local specialty.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the riverside, where the glow of street lamps creates a romantic ambiance. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city, savoring local dishes and cocktails. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby bar featuring live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Los Santos.
Embark on a guided tour of a local coffee farm, where you'll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in a hands-on coffee picking experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Colombian coffee. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee brewed right on the farm as you soak in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
After lunch at the farm, continue your coffee exploration with a tasting session, where you'll learn to identify different flavors and aromas. Take a scenic hike through the coffee plantation, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning landscapes. Capture photos of the breathtaking views of the Andes as you stroll through the plantation.
Return to Los Santos and unwind at a cozy café, where you can reflect on your day while sipping on a local brew. Explore the local artisan shops nearby, where you can find unique souvenirs to take home. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby eatery, sampling traditional Colombian dishes and chatting with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee at a local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local bus ride | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Hostel/guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic highland setting with cloud forests and coffee culture
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Limited international flight access compared to bigger cities
- Smaller nightlife and fewer luxury options
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Los Santos
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph the colonial façade and the lively morning market; great morning light.
Panoramic viewpoint over the valley with coffee plantations stretching to the horizon.
Waterfalls just outside town with emerald pools and forest backdrop.
Food in Los Santos
Los Santos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty corn-based soup with beef, vegetables, and sometimes chickpeas, typically enjoyed with arepas.
Must-Try!
Grilled trout from local rivers, often served with potatoes and a light herb sauce.
Cornmeal arepa filled with cheese or served as a side to stews; common at breakfast.
Steamed corn dough parcels with meat, vegetables, and spices wrapped in plantain leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A focal market where locals buy produce, cheeses, and prepared snacks; try fresh arepas, arequipes, and tamales from stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “Buenos días/tardes.” A handshake or cheek kiss among friends.
Dress modestly in religious sites; speak in a calm tone; avoid loud arguing in public.
Be punctual for booked tours but relaxed in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Los Santos
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good. In markets or street stalls, tipping is optional.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take cards, but some markets are cash-only; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days with cool mornings and pleasant temperatures; ideal for outdoor walks and terrace meals.
Afternoons bring brief showers; carry a rain jacket and waterproof footwear; trails can be muddier but lush.
Los Santos at Night
Hiking in Los Santos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Waterfall hike through cloud forest with a mid-length trail and strong viewpoints.
Scenic viewpoints over the valley and coffee terraces; good sunrise photography.
Airports
How to reach Los Santos by plane.
Major gateway to the region, located near Bucaramanga; from the airport, you can drive or take a bus to Los Santos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Mestizo with Afro-Colombian communities in some rural areas; many families have lived in the mountains for generations.
Visitors seeking nature, coffee culture, and colonial heritage. Seasonal peaks align with holidays and festival periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in plazas and schools.
A traditional Colombian throw-and-smash sport often played in rural areas and festivals.
Popular activities in surrounding hills and forests.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Santos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetables, beans, and cheese dishes; many places offer veggie soups or fried plantains as substitutes for meat.