Things To Do
in Toro
Toro is a small municipality in Colombia's Andean countryside, framed by green hills and coffee farms. The town offers a relaxed pace, with friendly locals, colonial-influenced architecture, and fresh market produce at every turn. Visitors can wander narrow streets, sample regional flavors, and observe everyday rural life in a tranquil setting.
The climate is mild year-round, with cool evenings that invite long views over the valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Toro and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Visit a local café to savor the Colombian coffee and get a feel for the town.
Explore the central plaza and its charming colonial architecture. Visit the local market to discover fresh produce and handmade crafts. Interact with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture.
Dine at a traditional local restaurant where you can savor typical dishes from the region. Spend some time strolling through the town square, perhaps catching live music or local festivities. End your evening with a quiet walk back to your accommodation, taking in the night sky.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a nature hike. Explore the lush landscapes surrounding Toro, filled with diverse flora and fauna. Be on the lookout for birds and other wildlife as you trek through the trails.
After a picnic lunch in nature, continue your hike to a nearby waterfall for a refreshing swim. Enjoy the serenity of the spot as you relax and unwind by the water. Take photos of this beautiful oasis to capture your memories.
Return to Toro and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a different local restaurant to experience more regional flavors. Reflect on the day's adventures with new friends or fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🧭Local handicraft souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes and coffee culture
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Great base for day trips to farms and hikes
- Limited nightlife and some amenities are basic
- Travel to larger cities required for specialized medical care
- Public transport can be infrequent outside town centers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- " Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Puede recomendarme…?" - Can you recommend…?
Places to Visit in Toro
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic overlook above the town offering sweeping views of the valley and hillside coffee farms.
Colonial plaza framed by pastel buildings; early light creates soft shadows and vibrant colors.
Lush forested area with waterfalls along rural trails; ideal for nature and long exposure shots.
Food in Toro
Toro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter with beans, rice, ground meat or pork, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, and a fried egg; a regional staple.
Must-Try!
Grilled cornmeal cake stuffed with melted cheese, a common street-side bite in town.
Roasted pork stuffed with rice and peas, often served at gatherings and special occasions.
A cup of locally grown coffee, typically enjoyed black with a touch of panela.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where farmers sell fresh produce, cheeses, and prepared snacks; a great place to sample regional bites.
Casual stalls offering arepas, empanadas, and corn-based snacks ideal for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola and a handshake; among friends, a cheek kiss may occur in informal settings.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; be respectful in religious or cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in Toro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave 5-10% if service is not included in the bill.
Cash (COP) and cards are commonly accepted in town; some markets are cash-only; ATMs are available in the town center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings plenty of sunshine and clear skies; great for outdoor hikes and views, but trails may be dusty early in the day.
Rainier months with frequent afternoon showers; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes; mornings can be misty and cool.
Toro at Night
Hiking in Toro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate ascent offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding farms; typically 2–3 hours round trip.
A scenic route through coffee farms and lookout points, great for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Toro by plane.
Major international airport serving the Medellín area; typically a 1–2 hour drive to the Toro region depending on route.
Medellín's city-center airport offering domestic flights; convenient for shorter trips and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mestizo and White Colombians, with smaller Afro-Colombian and Indigenous groups in nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Colombia's most popular sport; local games and informal street matches are common.
Road and mountain biking are popular in the Andean region, with scenic routes through coffee country.
Played in schools, community centers, and local courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-based, but you can opt for beans, rice, plantains, cheese, and vegetable empanadas; ask for meat-free versions and communicate any allergies; markets often have fresh fruits and veggie sides.