Things To Do
in Turbo

Turbo is a vibrant coastal town located in the Antioquia department of Colombia, known for its stunning beaches and rich Afro-Colombian culture. The town serves as a gateway to both the Caribbean Sea and the lush landscapes of the nearby mountains. With a population that embraces its diverse heritage, Turbo offers visitors a taste of traditional Colombian life, along with modern amenities.

The local economy thrives on fishing, agriculture, and tourism, making it a unique blend of history and contemporary culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town and Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, Mercado de Turbo, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample local fruits.

afternoon
:

Head to Playa de Turbo for sunbathing and swimming, followed by a seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach at sunset and dine at Restaurante El Puerto, known for its fresh fish dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders
morning
:

Visit the nearby town of Apartadó to explore the local culture and enjoy a traditional breakfast.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to the stunning nature reserve, Parque Natural Los Katíos, for hiking and wildlife spotting.

evening
:

Return to Turbo for dinner at a local eatery and experience the lively atmosphere with music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🛒Groceries for one week$30
🚕Taxi ride within the town$2
Coffee at a café$1.50
🎟️Entry to a local attraction$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and warm hospitality.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and beautiful beaches.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other coastal destinations.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Some areas may have safety concerns, especially at night.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Turbo

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa de Turbo

A picturesque beach with golden sands and stunning sunsets, perfect for capturing coastal beauty.

Parque Natural Los Katíos

A lush nature reserve filled with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

Centro Histórico de Turbo

The colorful streets and colonial architecture provide great backdrops for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Turbo

Turbo offers a rich culinary landscape that reflects its coastal heritage, featuring an array of seafood and traditional dishes.

Turbo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter that includes beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, and plantains.

Must-Try!

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with meat, yucca, plantains, and corn.

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, often served with onions and cilantro.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Turbo

A bustling market where you can explore local produce, seafood, and traditional snacks.

Street Vendors

Various vendors selling empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices along the streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Turbo has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The dry season sees less rainfall, while the rainy season can bring heavy downpours. Humidity is consistently high, contributing to the vibrant greenery of the region. Expect warm nights and occasional breezes from the sea.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a warm greeting is customary when meeting locals.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Respect for Culture

Show appreciation for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Turbo is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Keep valuables secured and refrain from displaying them in public. Use reputable transportation options and consult locals for safe areas to explore.

Tipping in Turbo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

A tip of 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is king in Turbo, but some places accept credit cards; ensure you have enough cash on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to March)

Expect sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Rainy Season (April to November)

Frequent rain showers; be prepared for wet weather and lush landscapes.

Festive Season (December)

A vibrant time with local festivals, music, and cultural events to enjoy.

Summer (June to August)

Warm temperatures and local celebrations make it a bustling time for tourism.

Nightlife Guide

Turbo at Night

Turbo's nightlife is vibrant, with numerous bars and clubs offering a mix of local music, dance, and entertainment. The beachfront areas come alive at night, attracting both locals and tourists. Enjoy live salsa music and reggaeton at popular venues like Bar La Isla, where dancing is a must. For a more laid-back experience, visit a local café or bar to savor cocktails while watching the sunset.

Hiking in Turbo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de Oro

A challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Caribbean Sea.

Sendero La Selva

An easy to moderate trail through lush rainforest, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Turbo by plane.

Golfo de Urabá Airport (Turbaco)

Located approximately 10 km from Turbo, this small airport offers limited domestic flights, primarily connecting to Medellín.

Getting Around

Walkability

Turbo is moderately walkable, with many attractions and amenities located within walking distance in the town center. Sidewalks are generally available, but some areas may be less maintained. Exploring on foot allows visitors to soak in the local ambiance and engage with friendly locals.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Afro-Colombians

A significant demographic group in Turbo, contributing to the region's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Indigenous Communities

Various indigenous groups reside in the surrounding areas, preserving their cultural practices and languages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Turbo, with local teams and matches attracting passionate fans.

Baseball

Baseball enjoys popularity in the region, with many youth leagues and community games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Turbo is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and commonly used by locals. However, during peak hours, roads may become congested, so plan your travel accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Turbo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire as choices may be limited.

Gluten-Free Dishes

Some local dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Turbo are limited, but basic medical services are available. For more serious conditions, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Medellín. It’s recommended to have travel insurance and access to medications as needed. Pharmacies are available for common health issues.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide