Things To Do
in Nunchía
Nunchía is a small Llanos town in Casanare, Colombia, surrounded by expansive grasslands and winding rivers. The pace is slow and welcoming, with a strong cattle ranching tradition and a warm local hospitality. Visitors can experience wide-open skies, colorful sunsets, and authentic rural life away from the big cities.
The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural areas and cultural experiences that highlight the Llano frontier spirit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh arepas and coffee while soaking in the early morning ambiance of Nunchía. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, where colonial architecture and vibrant street art tell the story of the town's rich heritage. Visit the local market to interact with artisans and sample traditional snacks, immersing yourself in the local culture.
In the afternoon, visit the Nunchía Museum to learn about the region’s history and its significance in Colombian heritage. Spend some time at the Parque Principal, where you can relax under the shade of trees and watch locals go about their day. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can try a typical dish like bandeja paisa, complete with all its traditional flavors.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant with a view for dinner, enjoying the twilight over the town. Engage with locals or fellow travelers over a plate of fresh trout, a specialty of the region, while sipping on a refreshing aguapanela. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the riverbank, listening to the sounds of nature and reflecting on your first day in Nunchía.
Start your day early with a guided hike to La Chorrera Waterfall, one of the region's stunning natural attractions. The trek through lush forests offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including colorful birds and vibrant butterflies. After reaching the waterfall, take a moment to admire the breathtaking views and capture some stunning photographs.
After enjoying the beauty of the waterfall, have a picnic lunch by the water, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Spend the afternoon swimming in the natural pools, allowing the cool water to refresh you after the hike. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at cliff jumping from a safe height into the crystal-clear waters below.
Return to Nunchía in the evening, where you can unwind at a local café with a cup of hot chocolate made from locally sourced cacao. Share stories of your day with fellow travelers or locals, learning more about their experiences and recommendations. Enjoy a simple dinner at a nearby eatery, sampling more regional dishes, and relax as the day comes to a close.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚗Taxi within town | $3-6 |
| 🏨Basic hotel room per night | $25-50 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Llanos experience
- Friendly local people
- Beautiful starry skies and expansive landscapes
- Limited tourism infrastructure in small towns
- Fewer large-scale dining and nightlife options
- Rural road conditions can be challenging in the rainy season
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
Places to Visit in Nunchía
Visit one of these nice places.
An expansive horizon with soft morning light, ideal for wide landscape shots and silhouettes of grazing cattle.
A quiet focal point with colonial or traditional architecture; great for street photography and candid portraits.
Palm-lined waterways offer reflective water scenes and opportunities to capture wildlife at golden hour.
Cattle pens, fences, and open pastures framed by dramatic skies provide classic Llanos imagery.
Food in Nunchía
Nunchía Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Llanos grilled beef, often enjoyed with yuca, plantains, and a simple chimichurri-like sauce; best found at haciendas and roadside grills.
Must-Try!
Corn-based arepa common in the region, served hot as a snack or with meals.
Hearty chicken soup with root vegetables and herbs, a comforting staple in rural meals.
Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, widely available from street vendors and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, dairy, and everyday staples; great for tasting informal street foods and observing daily life.
Arepas, empanadas, fresh fruit juices, and simple grilled meats commonly available around the town square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A sincere “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” with a handshake is typical; show warmth and politeness in conversations.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in close-up portraits or private settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; be respectful around animals and ranching activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nunchía
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a tip of 5-10% in restaurants is common. Guides and drivers often appreciate a small extra if service was good.
Cash is widely used in rural areas; credit/debit cards are more commonly accepted in larger establishments or towns. ATMs are more plentiful in bigger towns like Yopal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with bright skies and long days; high temperatures, sun protection is essential. Trails are easier to navigate, but be mindful of dust on unpaved roads.
Frequent afternoon downpours and localized flooding can occur; roads may become muddy and slower to traverse. Wildlife becomes more active, and vegetation is lush.
Nunchía at Night
Hiking in Nunchía
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Open savanna trails ideal for sunrise photography and wildlife viewing.
Flat, easy trail along a tranquil riverside with palm groves and birds.
Short guided hike on a working ranch with viewpoints over the plains.
Airports
How to reach Nunchía by plane.
Nearest regional airport with connections to major Colombian cities; taxis or transfers available to Nunchía.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Rural families tied to cattle ranching and traditional Llanero culture.
Majority population with rural and urban roots.
Contributes to cultural diversity and regional traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across Colombia, including in small towns like Nunchía.
An important part of regional culture, often showcased at rural festivals and celebrations.
Popular in local rivers and waterways during suitable seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nunchía.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but meat dishes predominate. Look for dishes with plantains, beans, rice, yucca, and vegetable stews; when in doubt, ask for plant-based preparations or request the chef to omit meat.