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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔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.
Classic town square scenes with colonial-style architecture, daily life, colorful façades and people—excellent for candid street photography and golden-hour shots.
Lookouts above the town offer panoramic views of valleys, farmland and distant ridgelines—best at sunrise or late afternoon for dramatic light.
Nearby waterways provide opportunities for long-exposure shots of cascades, reflective pools and riverside portraiture—bring waterproof protection for gear.
Agricultural landscapes, pickers, drying coffee beans and rustic farm buildings make evocative rural images—ask permission before photographing people closely.
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.
Food in San Bernardo
San Bernardo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
Steamed corn dough parcels with meat or vegetables (tamales) and fried filled pastries (empanadas) — great as snacks from markets and street sellers.
Seasonal fruits such as lulo, guanábana, mango and local berries served as fresh juices (jugos) or fruit salads at markets and cafés.
A hearty meat and root-vegetable soup popular for communal lunches; often available at family eateries on weekends.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
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.
Small towns value polite behavior and discretion—ask before photographing people or private property, and be mindful of local religious and cultural events.
Casual scheduling is normal for social occasions; tours and formal appointments may adhere more strictly to times—communicate clearly with local hosts.
Safety
Tipping in San Bernardo
Ensure a smooth experience
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
San Bernardo at Night
Hiking in San Bernardo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Rural farming families who cultivate coffee, potatoes, corn and other crops and form the backbone of the local economy.
A mixed-heritage majority combining Indigenous, European and African ancestry typical of many Andean communities.
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.
Soccer is the dominant sport—locals gather to watch national matches and enjoy community games on informal pitches.
Road cycling is popular in Andean areas with challenging climbs; visitors often rent bikes or join local cyclists for scenic rides.
Equestrian activities are common in rural communities for both work and leisure, and horse riding is an accessible tourist activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Bernardo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
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 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.
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.