Things To Do
in Socorro

Socorro, Colombia is a charming town located in the Santander department, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Andes mountains, it boasts stunning landscapes and colonial architecture. The town is famous for its coffee production and offers various outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.

Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions while enjoying the warm hospitality of the residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Socorro
morning
:

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

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the historic Catedral de Socorro and the nearby Museo de Arte Moderno, showcasing local artists.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll through the town to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike to the nearby waterfall, Cascada de La Chorrera, enjoying the lush scenery along the way.

afternoon
:

After returning, have lunch at a street food market, sampling local offerings, and then visit the coffee farms in the area for a tour.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local bar for some live music and a taste of regional drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🍺Local beer$2-3
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🏨Night in a hotel$20-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Transportation options can be limited in rural areas.
  • Occasional language barriers may arise.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Socorro

Visit one of these nice places.

Catedral de Socorro

This stunning cathedral offers a beautiful backdrop for photos with its impressive architecture and surrounding plaza.

Cascada de La Chorrera

A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Plaza de Bolívar

The central square is great for capturing the essence of Socorro with its colonial buildings and vibrant street life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Socorro

Socorro offers a delectable array of traditional Colombian cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage. From hearty stews to sweet desserts, there is something for every palate.

Socorro Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A traditional platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, plantains, avocado, and a fried egg.

Must-Try!

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be grilled or baked and filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meats, or vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A local market where vendors sell fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Socorro experiences a temperate climate with mild temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with cooler nights. The rainy season from April to November brings increased humidity and frequent showers, while the dry season from December to March is characterized by sunny, pleasant days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and friends often greet each other with a hug or a kiss on the cheek.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important, so always greet them politely.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending local events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Socorro is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any travel destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuable items and keep your belongings secure. It's advisable to use reputable transportation and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Socorro

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, especially if service is good.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly common in restaurants and shops. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Wet Season (April to November)

Expect frequent rain showers, especially in the afternoons. It's advisable to carry an umbrella and wear waterproof shoes.

Dry Season (December to March)

Enjoy sunny days with minimal rain, making it the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Festive Season (December)

Experience vibrant local celebrations, including Christmas festivities, with lively decorations and events throughout the town.

Coffee Harvest Season (October to December)

This period offers the opportunity to visit coffee farms and participate in harvest activities, providing unique insights into local agriculture.

Nightlife Guide

Socorro at Night

Socorro offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of local bars and cafés. Many venues feature live music, particularly on weekends, showcasing local musicians and artists. It's common to enjoy a drink with friends, and the atmosphere is generally relaxed and welcoming.

Hiking in Socorro

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

El Salto de Los Caballos

A scenic trail that leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the surrounding valleys and mountains, ideal for experienced hikers.

Cerro de La Paz

This moderate hike offers beautiful views and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, perfect for a day outing.

Airports

How to reach Socorro by plane.

Palonegro International Airport

Located about 110 km from Socorro, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, making it the nearest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Socorro is a walkable town, especially in the central areas where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. The streets are generally safe for pedestrians, and exploring on foot allows for a more intimate experience of local culture and community life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Socorro is home to several indigenous groups, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region and offering unique traditions and practices.

Coffee Farmers

The local economy is significantly supported by coffee farmers, who play a crucial role in both the agricultural and cultural landscape of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Socorro, with local teams and matches drawing community support and enthusiasm.

Cycling

The mountainous terrain offers great opportunities for cycling, with both casual and competitive biking events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Socorro is relatively light, particularly compared to larger cities. Public transportation consists mainly of buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Socorro.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Socorro is accessible, with several clinics and a local hospital providing basic medical services. However, for more serious health issues, larger cities like Bucaramanga may be necessary. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide