Things To Do
in Puerto Salgar

Puerto Salgar is a vibrant town located in the Cundinamarca department of Colombia, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Nestled along the banks of the Magdalena River, it serves as a gateway to various outdoor adventures and historical sites. The town is also famous for its traditional music and dance, making it a lively spot for cultural immersion.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty, local cuisine, and warm hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh fruits and regional delicacies. Afterward, explore the historical center of Puerto Salgar, visiting local churches and cultural landmarks.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic hike along the Magdalena River, enjoying the lush greenery and wildlife. Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can experience live music and traditional Colombian dances. End the night with a leisurely walk along the riverbank.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a breakfast of arepas and coffee at a nearby café. Then, head out for a kayak trip on the river for a different perspective of the town's natural beauty.

afternoon
:

After kayaking, visit the local artisan shops to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a food stall offering street food specialties.

evening
:

Wrap up your adventure with a visit to a local bar or dance hall where you can engage with residents and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1.50
🚖Taxi ride within the town$3
🍺Local beer$2
🛒Groceries for a week$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Abundance of outdoor activities and natural beauty.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Limited healthcare facilities for more serious conditions.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?

Places to Visit in Puerto Salgar

Visit one of these nice places.

Magdalena River

Capture stunning sunset views along the river, where the water reflects the vibrant colors of the sky.

Local Market

Photograph the lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and the unique faces of local vendors.

Historical Churches

The architecture of the town's churches provides a beautiful backdrop for photography, showcasing intricate details.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Salgar

Puerto Salgar offers a delightful culinary experience rooted in Colombian tradition, with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's flavors.

Puerto Salgar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, and plantain.

Must-Try!

Arepas

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Puerto Salgar

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks, perfect for tasting local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Puerto Salgar has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from December to March and a rainy season from April to November. Temperatures generally range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) year-round, with high humidity levels. Expect more rainfall during the afternoons in the rainy season, while the dry season offers sunny and warm days, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly greeting is common when meeting locals; use 'Hola' to say hello.

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; comfortable but respectful attire is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto Salgar is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid displaying valuables openly, and be cautious when walking alone at night. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas and use trusted transportation options.

Tipping in Puerto Salgar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is recommended for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect warm and sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Be prepared for frequent rain showers, particularly in the afternoons; carry an umbrella or raincoat.

Festive Season (December)

A lively time with local celebrations, music, and dance events, showcasing Puerto Salgar's rich culture.

Cool Season (June to August)

Cooler temperatures make this a pleasant time for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Salgar at Night

Puerto Salgar's nightlife is lively and community-oriented, with a mix of local bars, dance halls, and occasional live music events. Visitors can enjoy traditional Colombian music, such as Vallenato and Cumbia, while mingling with locals. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, making it a great place to experience the social culture of the region.

Hiking in Puerto Salgar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Paz Trail

A popular hiking trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

La Quebrada Trail

This trail takes hikers through lush vegetation and along a picturesque stream, providing a refreshing escape into nature.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Salgar by plane.

El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

Located approximately 100 km from Puerto Salgar, this is the main international airport in Colombia, offering connections to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Salgar is a walkable town, particularly in the central area where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are located. Sidewalks are generally present, and the town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo

The majority of the population is Mestizo, a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the town.

Indigenous Communities

Some Indigenous communities still reside in the area, maintaining traditional customs and practices that enrich the cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Puerto Salgar, with many local teams and passionate fans supporting their clubs.

Cycling

Cycling is enjoyed by many residents, with scenic routes along the river and surrounding hills providing great opportunities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto Salgar is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable but may have limited schedules. It's advisable to plan ahead for longer journeys or peak travel times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Salgar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about preparation to avoid meat-based broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Puerto Salgar are basic, with a few clinics and pharmacies available for minor ailments. For more serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities such as Bogotá, which has more comprehensive healthcare facilities. Travelers are encouraged to have health insurance that covers international care.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide