Things To Do
in Monterrey
Monterrey, Colombia is a hidden highland town set in a lush river valley, where vibrant markets and warm locals create an inviting atmosphere. The streets are a blend of colonial charm and modern cafés, with colorful buildings and friendly chatter at every corner. Nature is never far away, offering easy access to waterfalls, forest trails, and panoramic viewpoints.
Expect mild days, cool nights, and a rhythm of life that feels both relaxed and adventurous.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Monterrey, settle into your hotel and take some time to acclimate to your new surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Colombian fare. Stroll around the nearby plaza to get a feel for the city's vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the Museo de Antioquia, where you can appreciate stunning artworks and learn about the rich cultural history of the region. Visit the iconic Plaza Botero to admire the oversized sculptures by Fernando Botero. Use this time to shop for local crafts and souvenirs at nearby artisan markets.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Colombian restaurant, indulging in arepas and bandeja paisa. After dinner, meander through the lively streets of Monterrey, where you might find street performers adding to the vibrant nightlife. Toast your first night in Monterrey with a local aguardiente at a cozy bar.
Begin your day with an early hike to the breathtaking Cerro Nutibara, offering panoramic views of the city. Capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the Colombian flora and fauna along the trails. Enjoy a picnic breakfast with local goodies at a scenic viewpoint.
Head to Parque Arvi for an afternoon of nature exploration; stroll through the lush trails and join a guided tour to learn about the area. Grab lunch at a quaint café nestled in the park, where you can enjoy fresh produce from local farmers. Experience the serenity of nature as you relax in this beautiful park.
After returning to the city, visit a local intercambio where travelers and locals meet to share experiences and language lessons. Enjoy a casual dinner at a popular street food spot, trying empanadas and fresh fruit juices. Wrap up your day from a rooftop bar overlooking the twinkling city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | COP 25,000-40,000 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | COP 3,000-7,000 |
| 🚌Local transport ticket | COP 2,000-4,000 |
| 🛏️Hotel/hostel per night | COP 40,000-120,000 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | COP 100,000-200,000 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Affordable costs and delicious food
- Access to lush nature and river scenery
- Relaxed, small-town vibe
- Limited high-speed connectivity in some areas
- Fewer direct international flights; rely on connections
- Rugged roads in the rainy season; occasional delays
- Less polished infrastructure compared to larger cities
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Dónde queda...?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Monterrey
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook with views of the river valley and surrounding hills, especially photogenic at golden hour.
Colorful colonial façades, plazas, and a historic church provide classic street photography moments.
Waterfalls and lush jungle scenery ideal for long-exposure landscape shots.
Riverfront promenade with locals, street art, and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Monterrey
Monterrey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa, often enjoyed with cheese or as a base for toppings to accompany coffee or a light lunch.
Must-Try!
Grilled river trout served with plantains, lime, and herbs—a signature dish near the watercourses.
Hearty broth with chicken or beef, corn on the cob, yucca, and potatoes—a comforting staple for cooler evenings.
Light fish soup flavored with lime and cilantro, a refreshing option after a day outdoors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, cheeses, arepas, and quick bites from family-run stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with eye contact is common; in closer circles, a light kiss on the cheek may be exchanged. Use polite language and a friendly tone.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches; remove hats during services.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets; avoid loud, confrontational behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Monterrey
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is customary if service isn’t included; round up taxi fares; guides appreciate small tips for good service.
Cash in Colombian pesos is widely accepted. Cards are common in larger shops and restaurants; ATMs are plentiful in the town center; mobile payments are growing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec–Mar and Jun–Aug bring clear skies and sunny days; perfect for outdoor activities and photography, though evenings can be chilly.
Apr–May and Sep–Nov bring regular rain showers; landscapes become lush and dramatic, but some trails may be muddy and roads slick.
Monterrey at Night
Hiking in Monterrey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A ridge walk offering sweeping valley views and sunset opportunities.
Cloud forest loop with birdwatching and a small waterfall.
Airports
How to reach Monterrey by plane.
Regional airport serving Casanare with domestic connections to Bogotá and Medellín.
Small airport serving the Arauca region; useful for accessing remote areas and connecting to larger hubs.
Major international gateway; from here you can catch domestic flights to Monterrey's region and other Colombian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young professionals and families living in the town center and hillside neighborhoods.
Residents whose livelihoods center on agriculture, fishing, and crafts in surrounding areas.
Diverse cultural groups contributing to regional music, crafts, and traditions in nearby regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and friendly matches are common in plazas and schools.
Popular on scenic road routes and mountain paths; organized rides and amateur races commonly held on weekends.
Played in local courts and schools; community leagues and informal games in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monterrey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can accommodate; look for vegetable stews, plantains, beets, and fresh salads; ask about stock in sauces to avoid meat-based broths.