Things To Do
in Melgar
Melgar is a warm, riverside town in Tolima, Colombia, known for its thermal baths and as a popular weekend escape from Bogota and Medellin. It sits on a fertile plain with a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and growing hospitality options. Visitors come to soak in hot springs, enjoy outdoor activities, and explore nearby countryside and small-town charm.
Despite growing development, Melgar retains a laid-back vibe with affordable eateries and easy access to nearby natural sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Colombian dishes like arepas and freshly brewed coffee. Afterwards, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Melgar, exploring its unique shops and friendly locals. Don't miss the chance to capture moments at picturesque spots around town.
Visit the stunning Piscilago Water Park, located just a short drive from Melgar, where you can enjoy thrilling water slides and relaxing poolside vibes. Savor a quick lunch at the park's food stalls, sampling local specialties and refreshing drinks. Dive into the fun, or simply lounge under the sun as you soak up the tropical atmosphere.
After a day of adventure, head to a local restaurant for dinner where you can indulge in Colombian cuisine while enjoying the lively atmosphere. As night falls, experience the nightlife of Melgar by visiting local bars or dance clubs, where you can taste exotic cocktails and immerse yourself in the rhythms of salsa. Wind down the evening by taking a peaceful stroll, admiring the illuminated landscape.
Start your morning with a visit to the local market to experience Colombian culture firsthand. Browse through vibrant stalls filled with fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Engage with the locals to learn about their crafts and daily lives.
Visit the nearby San Francisco Church, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Take a guided tour to understand the significance of this landmark and appreciate its artistic details. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, savoring traditional dishes while reflecting on the morning's experiences.
As the sun sets, join a cultural show featuring traditional Colombian music and dance at a local venue. Engage with performers and learn some dance moves to join in the fun. Cap off your evening with a sweet treat from a local dessert shop, sampling delicious pastries and desserts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $1-2 |
| 🚕One-way local transport (short ride) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordability and good value for money
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere and easy pace
- Accessible hot springs and nature within a short drive
- Limited international flight connections and language barriers in smaller spots
- Nightlife is modest compared to bigger cities
- Very hot and humid climate can be tiring for some travelers
- "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
- "Me gustaría probar esto" - I would like to try this
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a good place to eat?
Places to Visit in Melgar
Visit one of these nice places.
A central green space with colonial facades, benches, and a lively atmosphere—great for early-morning or golden-hour photography.
Scenic banks and sunset viewpoints along the river, ideal for capturing silhouettes and reflective water shots.
The hot-spring resorts and surrounding gardens provide colorful backdrops and relaxing foregrounds for photography.
Food in Melgar
Melgar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A robust, comforting stew featuring chicken or beef, plantains, yuca, corn, and herbs, often enjoyed with rice and avocado.
Must-Try!
Corn-based tamales filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed.
Simple, flavorful corn-based breads and fresh corn cakes, often served with cheese, butter, or hogao (tomato-onion sauce).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can sample fresh fruit, regional snacks, and daily staples, with vendors offering ready-to-eat meals.
Arepas, empanadas, chuzos (skewered meat), and freshly grilled corn on the cob are common street options, especially in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” and use usted for strangers. A handshake is common in formal or first encounters.
Respect personal space, especially with elders and in conservative settings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Keep voices calm in public and avoid loud displays in crowded areas. When buying from street vendors, be patient and friendly.
Safety
Tipping in Melgar
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 10% tip is common if a service charge isn’t included. Small casual eateries and markets usually do not expect tips, but a small gratuity for good service is appreciated.
Cash (COP) is widely accepted in markets and street stalls. Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist-centered establishments. Mobile payments are growing, but carry cash for non-touristy vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Characterized by sunnier days and lower humidity. Great for outdoor activities, hiking, and long walks, but afternoons can still be hot. Sunscreen and hydration are essential.
Frequent brief downpours are common. Trails stay green and lush, but plan for mud and carry a light rain jacket. Afternoon showers can briefly interrupt outdoor plans.
Expect warm days with occasional rain. This period can be a good balance of outdoor access and lower crowds, with flexible plans depending on the weather.
Melgar at Night
Hiking in Melgar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short loops and gradual climbs through rural landscapes with viewpoints over farmland and distant hills.
Airports
How to reach Melgar by plane.
Regional airport serving Ibagué and the Tolima region; connections to major Colombian hubs, about 60–90 minutes by road from Melgar.
Main international hub in Bogotá with extensive domestic connections; from there, you can travel by road or domestic flight to the Tolima region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families and farmers who form the backbone of Melgar’s rural-urban mix.
Many people come from Bogota and other cities for short getaways to enjoy the thermal springs and local scenery.
A small but growing group seeking warmer climates and relaxed living in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played in parks and local clubs.
Common in community centers and schools, with local leagues and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Melgar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes revolve around meat, but you can find vegetarian options like bean-based stews, arepas, plant-based sides, and fruit-based snacks. In larger eateries, ask for vegetable or cheese-focused dishes and request sauces on the side to manage spice levels.