Things To Do
in Polonuevo

Polonuevo is a charming town located in the Atlantic region of Colombia, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. The town serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the surrounding areas, including beaches and rivers. Polonuevo is distinguished by its traditional architecture and welcoming locals, making it a unique place to experience Colombian culture.

With its warm climate and diverse ecosystems, it offers a variety of activities for both relaxation and adventure seekers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Town and Surroundings
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, Mercado Municipal, where you can enjoy fresh fruits and traditional breakfast dishes.

afternoon
:

Take a guided walking tour of Polonuevo to learn about its history, visit the central plaza, and see the beautiful colonial churches.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the town to experience its vibrant evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the nearby beaches of Puerto Velero for a morning of sunbathing and swimming.

afternoon
:

Participate in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding, or explore the nearby wetlands for bird watching.

evening
:

Return to Polonuevo for a farewell dinner at a popular local eatery, enjoying live music if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1.50
🍉Fresh Fruit Juice$1
🚕Taxi Ride within Town$2
🏨Budget Hotel Room$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with friendly locals.
  • Access to beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
  • Affordability compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transportation might not be as developed.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you.
  • "Por favor" - Please.
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me gustaría..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Polonuevo

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Principal

The central square, surrounded by colonial buildings, perfect for capturing local life.

Puerto Velero Beach

Stunning sunsets and beach scenes ideal for landscape photography.

Local Markets

Colorful stalls filled with fresh produce and local crafts provide vibrant backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Polonuevo

Polonuevo offers a vibrant culinary scene that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Must-try local dishes include fresh seafood, traditional Colombian arepas, and coconut rice. The town’s food markets and street vendors provide an authentic taste of local flavors. Whether you have dietary restrictions or preferences, there are plenty of options to explore.

Polonuevo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepas de Huevo

Fried corn cakes filled with egg, a popular breakfast item.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A hearty soup made with meat and various local vegetables.

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, often served with plantain chips.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

The main market in Polonuevo where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Vendors around town sell snacks like empanadas and fresh fruit juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Polonuevo has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The dry season runs from December to March, offering sunshine and minimal rainfall, while the rainy season from April to November brings more precipitation and cooler breezes. The region benefits from a pleasant coastal breeze, especially in the evenings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Locals

A friendly handshake or a polite greeting is customary when meeting someone.

Dress Modestly

Especially in rural areas, dress modestly to show respect for local customs.

Respect for Family

Family is very important in Colombian culture; respect for family values is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Polonuevo is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables and travel in groups, especially at night. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and ask locals for advice on safe areas to explore. Emergency contacts, like local police and hospitals, should be noted.

Tipping in Polonuevo

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 widely accepted, but some places also accept credit cards; ensure to carry some cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Frequent rains, but lush landscapes; perfect for nature photography.

Carnival Season (February)

Experience vibrant local festivities and parades.

Harvest Season (August to October)

Enjoy fresh local produce and fruit festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Polonuevo at Night

Polonuevo's nightlife is vibrant and community-oriented, with local bars and cafes often featuring live music and dance. While it may not be as bustling as larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly and inviting, and locals enjoy socializing late into the night. Traditional music, such as vallenato, is commonly heard, creating a lively ambiance for an enjoyable evening out.

Hiking in Polonuevo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Virgen

A scenic hike that offers panoramic views of Polonuevo and the surrounding landscape.

Sierra Nevada Hike

A more challenging trail that leads through diverse ecosystems and showcases the region's natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Polonuevo by plane.

Córdoba Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Polonuevo, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest access point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Polonuevo is quite walkable, with most attractions, markets, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other. The town's layout encourages exploration on foot, and the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to interact with locals. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but be mindful of uneven paths in some areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Several indigenous groups inhabit the surrounding areas, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Afro-Colombian Population

Polonuevo has a significant Afro-Colombian community, enriching the local culture with unique traditions and music.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Polonuevo, with local teams attracting enthusiastic support.

Baseball

Baseball also has a following, with local games often played in community fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Polonuevo is generally light, especially compared to larger Colombian cities. The town's size allows for easy navigation on foot or by bicycle. Public transportation options like local buses are available but may have limited schedules; taxis and motorbike taxis are common and convenient for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Polonuevo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Ask for corn-based dishes which are common and gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Polonuevo is accessible, with small clinics and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious health issues, larger hospitals can be found in nearby cities. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facility in case of emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide