San Juan de Arama
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Juan de Arama's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and take in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a local café, sampling arepas and fresh fruit juice. Don't forget to visit the nearby Church of San Juan Bautista, a stunning example of colonial-era craftsmanship.
Wander through the charming streets of the historic center, stopping by artisan shops to view handmade crafts and local art. Take a guided tour of the Museo del Oro, where you can learn about the indigenous cultures and their rich history with gold. As the afternoon sun sets, relax in one of the local parks, enjoying the lush greenery and the sounds of the city.
Dine at a local restaurant that specializes in traditional Colombian cuisine, savoring dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, where you can take in the beautiful scenery and watch the sunset. End your evening by visiting a small bar featuring live music, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in the nearby La Paya National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the lush biodiversity of the region. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and unique wildlife as you traverse the trails. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by nature, listening to the sounds of the forest.
Continue exploring the park, taking part in activities like birdwatching or hiking to one of the stunning viewpoints. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a picturesque spot, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Afterward, visit the park's visitor center to learn more about the conservation efforts in the area.
Return to San Juan de Arama and unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Choose a cozy local eatery for dinner, where you can sample fresh fish from the nearby rivers. Spend your evening relaxing, perhaps with a book or engaging in conversation with fellow travelers.
Start your day early by visiting the bustling local market, where you can observe the vibrant exchange of goods and fresh produce. Engage with local vendors, sampling exotic fruits and traditional snacks as you stroll through the stalls. The energetic atmosphere will give you a taste of daily life in San Juan de Arama.
After exploring the market, take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Colombian dishes using fresh ingredients purchased earlier. This hands-on experience will deepen your understanding of the local cuisine and its cultural significance. Enjoy the meal you’ve prepared together with your cooking instructor and fellow participants.
As the sun sets, visit a local theater or cultural center to experience a performance showcasing traditional Colombian music and dance. This immersive experience will provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Conclude your night with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying the lively ambiance.
Take a short trip to the stunning waterfalls just outside San Juan de Arama, where you can swim in the refreshing natural pools. Start your adventure with a guided hike through the lush jungle, learning about the local flora and fauna along the way. Enjoy the exhilarating feeling of the cool water as you take a dip in the falls.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a packed lunch by the waterfalls, surrounded by breathtaking views and the sound of cascading water. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding trails, where you can discover hidden gems and enjoy the sounds of nature. Capture beautiful photographs of the picturesque landscape to remember your day.
Return to San Juan de Arama and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a restaurant known for its local specialties and enjoy a meal that highlights the flavors of the region. Spend your evening mingling with locals at a nearby plaza, enjoying the relaxed vibe and perhaps joining in on some traditional dancing.
Head out to a nearby coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in a guided tour of the plantation, where you’ll see the coffee plants and learn about the cultivation techniques. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee while soaking in the beautiful landscape of rolling hills.
After the tour, participate in a coffee tasting session, where you can sample different varieties and learn about their unique flavor profiles. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients, experiencing the farm-to-table concept firsthand. Spend some time wandering the farm, taking in the serene atmosphere and stunning views.
Return to San Juan de Arama and take a leisurely evening walk through the town, reflecting on your coffee experience. Treat yourself to a dessert made with local fruits at a nearby café, pairing it with another cup of coffee. Conclude your day by relaxing at your accommodation, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the evening.
Embark on a cultural tour to visit nearby indigenous communities, where you will learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life. Engage with the locals, who will share stories of their heritage and the significance of their customs. Enjoy a traditional breakfast prepared by the community, experiencing their hospitality firsthand.
Spend the afternoon participating in a workshop, where you can learn traditional craft-making skills, such as weaving or pottery. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper understanding of the community's culture. Afterward, enjoy a communal lunch with the locals, sharing stories and laughter.
Return to San Juan de Arama and reflect on your enriching experience over dinner at a local restaurant. Choose a dish that highlights the region’s culinary diversity and savor every bite. Spend your evening enjoying a relaxed atmosphere, perhaps with a bonfire or storytelling session with fellow travelers.
Head to the nearest beach, where you can unwind on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. Settle in with a good book or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters to start your day on a relaxing note. Enjoy a beachside breakfast from a local vendor, sampling fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Engage in some beach activities like volleyball, paddleboarding, or simply strolling along the shoreline collecting seashells. Find a shaded spot for a leisurely lunch, enjoying fresh ceviche or grilled fish from a beachside restaurant. Continue your afternoon with sunbathing or exploring nearby tide pools filled with marine life.
As the sun begins to set, find a perfect spot to watch the spectacular sunset over the ocean. Enjoy a seaside dinner at a restaurant known for its seafood, where you can indulge in local specialties. Wrap up your beach day with a peaceful walk along the shore, reflecting on the beauty of the day.
Begin your day by visiting the local historical museum to learn more about San Juan de Arama's past and its role in Colombia's history. Spend time viewing the exhibits that showcase artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can provide deeper insights into the local history.
After the museum, visit a nearby historical site, such as an old colonial church or a heritage building, to appreciate the architectural beauty and significance. Discover the stories behind these landmarks and how they shaped the community. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café, discussing your discoveries with fellow travelers.
In the evening, attend a local cultural event or festival, if available, where you can experience traditional music, dance, and art. This immersive experience will deepen your connection to the local community and its vibrant culture. Afterward, have dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Colombian cuisine once more.
Kick off your day with an adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure, such as zip-lining through the canopy of the rainforest. Experience the thrill of soaring high above the trees while taking in breathtaking views of the landscape. Enjoy a quick breakfast at a local café before your adventure begins to fuel up for the day.
After your morning of excitement, head to a nearby river for white-water rafting, where you'll navigate thrilling rapids under the guidance of experienced instructors. The rush of the water and the stunning scenery will create an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a packed lunch along the riverbank, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Return to San Juan de Arama, where you can relax and recount the day's adventures over dinner at a laid-back eatery. Try some local dishes that feature fresh ingredients and bold flavors, celebrating the end of an action-packed day. Wind down your evening by engaging in conversations with fellow adventurers at a nearby café.