Things To Do
in Sincelejo

Sincelejo is the capital of the Sucre department in Colombia, known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city boasts a mix of colonial architecture and modern development, making it an interesting destination for travelers. Sincelejo is particularly famous for its lively festivals, especially the Feria de Sincelejo, which showcases traditional music, dance, and local gastronomy.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Sincelejo offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Majagual, where you can admire the beautiful colonial buildings and enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museo de Arte Moderno de Sincelejo to view local artworks, followed by a stroll through the nearby Parque Santander.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in the nightlife by visiting a local bar to experience traditional Colombian music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the nearby La Mojana wetlands for bird watching and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional meal at a popular restaurant and conclude your trip by experiencing a local dance show.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-$10
Cup of coffee$1-$2
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-$30
🎟️Entrance to museum$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with vibrant festivals
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh produce
  • Limited English-speaking services
  • Traffic congestion in the city center
  • High humidity can be uncomfortable for some travelers
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Sincelejo

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de Majagual

Capture the essence of Sincelejo with its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Parque Santander

A beautiful park perfect for photographing local life and nature.

Museo de Arte Moderno

An art museum with unique sculptures and installations, offering great photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sincelejo

Sincelejo offers a culinary experience that reflects its rich cultural heritage, with an array of local flavors and traditional dishes to savor.

Sincelejo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepa de Huevo

A deep-fried corn cake stuffed with egg, often served with a spicy sauce.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A hearty stew made with various meats, plantains, yuca, and vegetables.

Mote de Queso

A creamy dish made with corn and cheese, commonly enjoyed as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Plaza de Mercado

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and various street foods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls throughout the city offer snacks like empanadas, arepas, and fresh juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sincelejo has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The dry season from December to March is marked by reduced rainfall, while the rainy season from April to November brings frequent showers, particularly in October. Humidity remains high throughout the year, providing a lush environment.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet people with a smile and use 'usted' as a sign of respect.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal, and it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Sincelejo is generally safe for tourists, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious with valuables in crowded places. It’s recommended to use reputable transportation services and to inform someone of your whereabouts when exploring unfamiliar areas.

Tipping in Sincelejo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but this is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are accepted in many places, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect sunny days with minimal rain, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Frequent rains occur, so pack an umbrella and enjoy the lush greenery and fewer crowds.

Festival Season (June)

Join the Feria de Sincelejo, one of the biggest cultural events, filled with parades, music, and dancing.

Cooler Months (July to September)

Temperatures are milder, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing and exploring.

Nightlife Guide

Sincelejo at Night

Sincelejo's nightlife is lively and diverse, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas include the Plaza de Majagual, where locals gather to enjoy traditional music and dance. Salsa and vallenato music dominate the scene, and many venues offer live performances. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to join in on the fun.

Hiking in Sincelejo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de La Vieja

A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.

El Parque Natural de San Antero

This natural park features various trails leading through diverse ecosystems, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Sincelejo by plane.

Golfo de Morrosquillo Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Sincelejo, this airport offers domestic flights to major Colombian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sincelejo is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within walking distance. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate on foot, but be cautious of traffic and pedestrians. Sidewalks are available but may not always be in pristine condition, so it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Sincelejo is home to several indigenous groups, who contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.

Afro-Colombian Population

A significant Afro-Colombian community enhances the cultural and musical landscape of Sincelejo.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Sincelejo, with local teams and fans passionately supporting their clubs.

Bullfighting

A traditional event held during festivals, attracting attention and controversy alike, deeply rooted in local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sincelejo can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and motorcycles, which are commonly used for short distances. Taxis are also available but should be arranged through reputable services or apps. Walking is a great option in the city center, where many attractions are close together.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sincelejo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be modified to be vegetarian, but always check with the chef.

Gluten-Free

Corn-based dishes are prevalent, making gluten-free options easier to find.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sincelejo is reasonable, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. The main hospital, Hospital Universitario de Sincelejo, offers a range of medical services. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies, as some facilities may have limited resources compared to larger cities.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide