Things To Do
in San Bernardo

San Bernardo is a small, rural municipality in the Andean region of Colombia known for its calm plazas, friendly communities and mountain scenery. The town serves as a gateway to nearby páramo and highland farmland, with a slow pace of life centered on agriculture and local markets. Visitors come for nature walks, birding and experiencing traditional Colombian small-town culture.

Basic services are available in town, while Bogotá (the main national hub) is the closest place for international connections and major hospital care.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your journey in San Bernardo by wandering through the historic center, where colonial architecture greets you at every turn. Visit the Plaza de la Independencia, taking in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the area. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local cafe, savoring the rich flavors of Colombian coffee and arepas.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, dive deeper into the history by visiting Museo de San Bernardo, showcasing the local culture and heritage. After immersing yourself in the exhibits, make your way to a nearby artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with local artisans and learn about their craft while supporting the community.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a local restaurant where you can indulge in the flavors of BBQ and fresh seafood. Share stories with fellow travelers over a delicious dinner accompanied by live music that adds to the lively ambiance. Conclude your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the beautiful night sky.

day 2
Nature Hike in Cerro de Oro
morning
:

Begin your morning early with a hearty breakfast before setting off to Cerro de Oro for a day immersed in nature. As you hike up the lush trails, admire the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this picturesque landscape. Capture stunning views of the surrounding valleys and take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness of the mountains.

afternoon
:

After reaching the summit, enjoy a packed lunch with breathtaking vistas rewarding your ascent. Take time to explore nearby viewpoints and snap some memorable photos, soaking in the tranquility. As the sun warms the afternoon, engage with fellow hikers and share your experiences over stories of adventure.

evening
:

Return to San Bernardo just in time to freshen up before dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant for an intimate meal, trying local specialties like sancocho. Finish your day by visiting a local bar for refreshing drinks and blending with locals as they share tales of the region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-7
Coffee (café local)$0.80-2
🚌Local bus ride$0.50-2
🏨Budget room (per night)$15-40
🎟️Guided day hike / activity$15-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic small-town Colombian culture and hospitality
  • Close access to Andean landscapes, birding and páramo ecosystems
  • Low prices and relaxed pace ideal for slow travel
  • Limited services and nightlife compared with larger cities
  • Spotty transportation and fewer card/ATM options—cash needed
  • Weather can be unpredictable, with muddy rural roads in rainy seasons
  • "Buenos días / Buenas tardes" - Good morning / Good afternoon
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor / Gracias" - Please / Thank you
  • "¿Me puede ayudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in San Bernardo

Visit one of these nice places.

Main Plaza and Parish Church

Classic town square scenes with colonial-style architecture, daily life, colorful façades and people—excellent for candid street photography and golden-hour shots.

Mountain Viewpoints

Lookouts above the town offer panoramic views of valleys, farmland and distant ridgelines—best at sunrise or late afternoon for dramatic light.

Rivers and Waterfalls

Nearby waterways provide opportunities for long-exposure shots of cascades, reflective pools and riverside portraiture—bring waterproof protection for gear.

Coffee Farms and Rural Roads

Agricultural landscapes, pickers, drying coffee beans and rustic farm buildings make evocative rural images—ask permission before photographing people closely.

Páramo/Highland Moorlands

If you visit nearby páramo and high-altitude moorlands, expect wide-open scenes, unique flora (frailejones) and misty atmospheres that photograph beautifully in soft light.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Bernardo

Cuisine around San Bernardo reflects traditional Andean Colombian home cooking: hearty stews, fresh corn- and potato-based dishes, local coffee, and seasonal fruit. Meals are simple, filling and made from locally grown ingredients; expect generous portions and an emphasis on comfort food.

San Bernardo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ajiaco (regional variation)

A thick chicken and potato soup flavored with local herbs; a warming dish in higher elevations and commonly found in family-run restaurants and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Arepas and chicharrón

Grilled or fried corn cakes often served with cheese or eggs and crispy pork rind; ubiquitous for breakfast and easy to find from street vendors.

Tamales and empanadas

Steamed corn dough parcels with meat or vegetables (tamales) and fried filled pastries (empanadas) — great as snacks from markets and street sellers.

Fresh tropical fruit and jugos

Seasonal fruits such as lulo, guanábana, mango and local berries served as fresh juices (jugos) or fruit salads at markets and cafés.

Sancocho

A hearty meat and root-vegetable soup popular for communal lunches; often available at family eateries on weekends.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Municipal Market

The town market is where locals buy produce, cheese and prepared foods; try fresh juices, empanadas, tamales and local dairy. Mornings are best for market activity.

Weekend Food Stalls

On weekends and festival days vendors set up near the plaza selling grilled meats, snacks and sweet treats—perfect for tasting local specialties and engaging with residents.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Bernardo's climate is typical of the mid- to high-Andean zone—mild daytime temperatures, cool nights and a strong risk of rain during the two wet seasons. Temperature variation is moderate rather than extreme, but altitude influences can make evenings notably chilly; sunscreen and rain protection are both useful year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake and direct eye contact are common when meeting; use formal greetings like 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and titles (Señor/Señora) with elders.

Respect for Community

Small towns value polite behavior and discretion—ask before photographing people or private property, and be mindful of local religious and cultural events.

Punctuality

Casual scheduling is normal for social occasions; tours and formal appointments may adhere more strictly to times—communicate clearly with local hosts.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Bernardo is generally safe for visitors who use normal precautions: avoid poorly lit and isolated areas at night, keep valuables out of sight, and be cautious on mountain roads after heavy rain. Petty theft and opportunistic crime are the most common issues—use hotel safes, travel with companions on remote trails, and check local advisories for any security updates before travel.

Tipping in San Bernardo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small-town eateries—rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for table service is generous. Tip tour guides and drivers directly in cash.

Payment Methods

Cash (Colombian pesos) is king in smaller towns; some restaurants and larger businesses may accept cards but connectivity can be unreliable. Bring enough cash and use ATMs in larger towns before arriving.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (roughly December–February, June–August)

Days are sunnier and trails are easier to access; this is a good time for hiking and outdoor photography. Evenings can be cool at high elevation, so layer clothing.

Wet Season (roughly March–May, September–November)

Expect frequent rain showers, muddy trails and occasional landslides on rural roads—pack a waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothing and flexible plans. Rivers swell, so avoid risky river crossings.

Festival Times

Local fiestas (patron saint days, harvest celebrations) vary year to year—these are lively times to see traditional music, dance and food but book accommodation early.

Nightlife Guide

San Bernardo at Night

Nightlife in San Bernardo is low-key and community-centered: expect small bars, patios with live or recorded music, informal gatherings and occasional festas. For a livelier club scene, travelers usually head to larger nearby towns or Bogotá; weekends are the best time to find music and social events in town.

Hiking in San Bernardo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sumapaz páramo (access points)

One of the largest páramo ecosystems in the world; offers unique high-altitude landscapes, frailejones and wide views. Require warm clothing and preferably a guide for safe access.

Ridge and valley trails

Local trails that traverse farmland and forest edges, suitable for half-day hikes and birdwatching; routes vary in difficulty and are often best explored with a local guide.

River valley walks

Gentler paths along river corridors ideal for relaxed hikes, picnics and photography—good in dry months when trails are stable.

Airports

How to reach San Bernardo by plane.

El Dorado International Airport (BOG)

Bogotá's main international airport is the primary gateway for international travelers; from San Bernardo expect a road transfer of one to several hours depending on exact location and traffic.

Regional airfields / charter flights

Smaller regional airstrips and charter services operate out of nearby towns (used mainly for private or charter flights); most travelers will fly to Bogotá and complete the trip by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and easily walkable on foot, with short distances between plaza, shops and eateries. However, many natural attractions and farms are spread out and require transport; sidewalks can be uneven and streets may be hilly, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local campesinos

Rural farming families who cultivate coffee, potatoes, corn and other crops and form the backbone of the local economy.

Mestizo population

A mixed-heritage majority combining Indigenous, European and African ancestry typical of many Andean communities.

Younger commuters and students

Younger residents may commute to larger towns for work or education; some live in San Bernardo while studying or working regionally.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Soccer is the dominant sport—locals gather to watch national matches and enjoy community games on informal pitches.

Cycling

Road cycling is popular in Andean areas with challenging climbs; visitors often rent bikes or join local cyclists for scenic rides.

Horseback Riding

Equestrian activities are common in rural communities for both work and leisure, and horse riding is an accessible tourist activity.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic within San Bernardo is light and dominated by pedestrian, motorcycle and small vehicle movement; rural roads can be narrow and winding. To reach regional attractions or Bogotá, minibuses (colectivos) and intermunicipal buses run regularly but schedules can be infrequent—private transport or arranged transfers offer more flexibility. Road conditions worsen during heavy rains.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Bernardo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available but limited in small towns—look for vegetable stews, rice-and-bean plates, arepas with cheese and fresh fruit. Communicate dietary needs clearly (in Spanish if possible) and consider bringing snacks if you have strict requirements.

Vegan / Gluten-free

Vegan and strict gluten-free options can be challenging; fruits, salads and some stews can be safe choices but cross-contamination is possible. If you require medical diets, stock up in Bogotá before arriving.

Food Allergies

Carry allergy information in Spanish and be cautious with street food and sauces; healthcare access is limited for severe reactions, so bring emergency medication if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is provided by local health posts or a small clinic for minor ailments. For emergencies or specialized care, patients are typically transferred to hospitals in larger towns or Bogotá—travel time to major hospitals can be significant, so travelers with medical needs should plan accordingly and carry necessary medications.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide