Things To Do
in Sonsón
Sonsón is a historic town set high in the Antioquia foothills, where colonial architecture meets lush Andean scenery. Its steep, cobblestone streets and colorful façades give the center a timeless charm, crowned by a central plaza and a venerable church. The surrounding valleys and pine-clad hills offer immediate nature escapes, from viewpoints over terraced landscapes to nearby waterfalls.
Visitors come for heritage, natural beauty, and the warm, low-key pace of life that characterizes this mountain town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de los Libertadores, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, sampling arepas and freshly brewed coffee. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, absorbing the rich history and culture of Sonsón.
Visit the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, an impressive church known for its intricate altarpiece and serene ambiance. Afterward, explore the artisan shops nearby, where you can find beautifully crafted souvenirs and local handicrafts. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, trying the region's famous bandeja paisa.
As the sun sets, head to a local viewpoint for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Savor a delicious dinner at a popular eatery, indulging in the flavors of Colombian cuisine. End your day with a stroll through the plaza, where you might catch live music or local performances.
Embark on a guided tour of a nearby coffee farm, where you will learn about the entire coffee production process from bean to cup. Participate in coffee picking, experiencing firsthand the labor of love that goes into each bean. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee brewed right on the farm while enjoying the stunning views.
After your tour, participate in a coffee tasting session, where you can sample different varieties and learn to appreciate their unique flavors. Enjoy a farm-fresh lunch, featuring local ingredients and traditional Colombian dishes. Spend some time exploring the lush coffee-growing landscape, filled with vibrant flora and fauna.
Return to Sonsón for dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can reflect on your coffee experience over a traditional meal. Consider visiting a local bar for a taste of Colombia's famous aguardiente, a sugarcane liquor. Relax in the warm atmosphere of the town, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch or street food | $3-7 |
| 🚍Local transport (bus/collectivo) | $0.5-1 |
| 🧺Market groceries for a day | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Colonial charm and scenic landscapes
- Friendly, small-town atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-budget attractions
- Rural transport can be slower and less predictable
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Puede recomendarme algo?" - Can you recommend something?
Places to Visit in Sonsón
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square framed by colorful colonial buildings provides classic photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or dusk.
A historic street with preserved facades and stair-stepped trajectories that capture the town’s vertical charm.
A vantage point overlooking Sonsón’s valley and surrounding hills, perfect for panoramic shots at golden hour.
Forest trails and small waterfalls along the surrounding countryside offer moody, nature-filled frames.
Food in Sonsón
Sonsón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A generous plate featuring beans, rice, plantain, chorizo, pork belly, ground meat, avocado, and a fried egg.
Must-Try!
Grilled river trout, often served with patacones or yuca and fresh herbs.
Sweet corn arepa sometimes filled with cheese or served with cheese and hogao.
A robust corn- and potato-based stew with meat or chicken; a comforting regional classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and regional snacks.
Casual vendors near the plaza offering arepas, empanadas, fruit cups, and grilled items.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a polite greetings, typically 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a handshake is common with new acquaintances.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes or markets.
Safety
Tipping in Sonsón
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is good and not included in the bill. In casual spots, rounding up the bill is appreciated but not required. Tipping street vendors is optional.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places also take cards. ATMs are available in town, but carry small denominations for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect clearer skies and comfortable daytime temperatures ideal for outdoor exploring; evenings can be cool. This period typically runs in two blocks through the year, making longer day trips more predictable.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings are often dry and bright. Carry a light rainjacket and waterproof footwear for hikes and street photography.
Sonsón at Night
Hiking in Sonsón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic hike offering views over Sonsón and the surrounding valleys.
Forest trail leading to waterfalls and pristine swimming holes.
Scenic ridge route with sweeping vistas and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Sonsón by plane.
Rionegro, about 2.5–3.5 hours by road from Sonsón; major international and domestic arrivals.
Medellín's domestic airport; roughly 2.5–3.5 hours away by road, useful for shorter domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families and farmers with a strong regional culture and warm hospitality.
Domestic and international visitors exploring the historic core and nearby nature.
Craftspeople and small business owners sustaining local traditions and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local youth and adult leagues add to weekend vitality.
Road cycling is common among residents due to scenic rural routes and hills.
A traditional Colombian pastime played in gatherings at bars and plazas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sonsón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes centered on corn, beans, plantains, grains, and fresh vegetables. Ask for versions without meat broths; many eateries can adapt arepas, salads, and bean dishes to vegetarian needs.