Things To Do
in Planadas

Planadas, Colombia is a charming town located in the Tolima department, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich coffee-growing culture. The town sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters, providing a cooler climate and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With a warm and welcoming local community, Planadas offers visitors a unique glimpse into rural Colombian life.

It serves as a gateway to various outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town and Coffee Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, followed by a guided tour of a nearby coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic church in the town square and take a leisurely walk along the picturesque streets to enjoy local artisan shops.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant serving traditional Tolimense cuisine and enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Embark on an early-morning hike in the nearby mountains, taking in the stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot and then visit a local market to experience the vibrant culture and buy some local produce.

evening
:

Return to town for dinner, followed by live music at a local venue or cultural event if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚌Bus Ticket$1
🏨Hotel Night$20-50
🛒Groceries for a Week$30-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich coffee culture with unique local experiences.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Transportation may be less frequent outside of major routes.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?

Places to Visit in Planadas

Visit one of these nice places.

Coffee Plantations

Capture the beauty of lush coffee fields set against the backdrop of rolling hills.

Planadas Town Square

The vibrant square is perfect for street photography, showcasing local life and architecture.

Mirador del Alto de La Paz

A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, ideal for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Planadas

Planadas offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect its rich agricultural heritage and coffee culture.

Planadas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty dish featuring rice, beans, ground meat, fried plantain, avocado, and a fried egg.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A traditional stew made with meat, plantains, potatoes, and yucca, often enjoyed on weekends.

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried, served with various fillings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Planadas Central Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and street food snacks.

Street Vendors

Various vendors offer snacks like empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Planadas has a temperate climate with mild temperatures year-round. The dry season from December to March features daytime highs around 24°C (75°F) and cool nights. The rainy season from April to November sees more frequent rains, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly greeting with a handshake is common; use 'Hola' to say hello.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important; use formal titles when addressing them.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin; it is polite to finish all the food on your plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Planadas is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay vigilant and avoid walking alone at night. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas.

Tipping in Planadas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred in local markets and smaller establishments, while credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect sunny days and cooler nights, perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Frequent rain showers, especially in the afternoons; plan indoor activities and be prepared for muddy trails.

Festive Season (June)

Experience local festivals celebrating coffee harvests with parades, music, and traditional foods.

Harvest Season (September to November)

A vibrant time to see coffee being harvested and participate in local celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Planadas at Night

Planadas offers a laid-back nightlife scene characterized by local bars and cultural events. Most activities are centered around social gatherings, live music, and community celebrations. Local bars often feature traditional music, making it a great way to experience the culture.

Hiking in Planadas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de La Paz

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the Tolima region.

Sendero del Río

A scenic trail that follows the river, perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Planadas by plane.

El Edén International Airport (AXM)

Located about 90 km from Planadas, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, providing access to major cities in Colombia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Planadas is a small town that is highly walkable. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within a short distance, making it easy to explore on foot. The streets are generally safe, but be mindful of uneven pavements in certain areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Planadas is home to several indigenous groups that contribute to the cultural diversity of the area.

Coffee Farmers

Many residents are involved in coffee farming, which is a significant part of the local economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Planadas, with local teams and community matches frequently held.

Cycling

With its scenic roads and hilly terrain, cycling is a popular activity among both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Planadas is minimal, with most locals using bicycles or walking. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis, making it easy to get around without the need for a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Planadas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many traditional dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, and local markets offer fresh fruits and vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

While some local dishes contain gluten, naturally gluten-free options like rice and arepas are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Planadas includes a local hospital and several clinics offering basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Ibagué.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide