Things To Do
in Valdivia
Valdivia is a highland town in Antioquia, Colombia, perched in a green valley and surrounded by coffee farms and cloud forests. The town preserves a laid-back rural rhythm, with pastel houses, a central plaza, and a friendly, welcoming community. Visitors come to stroll riverbanks, sample local coffee, and use Valdivia as a base to explore nearby waterfalls and trails.
The climate is mild and verdant, making outdoor wanderings pleasant most of the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant historic center of Valdivia. Enjoy a coffee at a local café while admiring the beautiful architecture of the colonial buildings. Don't miss the iconic Valdivia Cathedral, which showcases the city's rich history.
After lunch, visit the impressive Museo Histórico y Antropológico, where you can learn about the indigenous cultures and the history of Valdivia. Take a relaxing walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the scenery and the local crafts at the artisan market. Spend your afternoon soaking in the picturesque views and soaking up the atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional restaurant to savor some local seafood dishes paired with Colombian craft beer. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while listening to live music that often fills the air in the bustling square. After dinner, take a walk along the river promenade to enjoy the night lights of the city.
Begin the day with a visit to the renowned Botanical Garden of Valdivia, a lush sanctuary filled with native and exotic plants. Take advantage of the morning hours to explore the serene pathways and observe various flora and fauna. The tranquility of the gardens is perfect for enjoying a peaceful moment in nature.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the garden or head to a nearby café for a bite to eat. In the afternoon, participate in a guided tour to learn more about the conservation efforts at the garden. Spend some time sketching or photographing the vibrant plant life that surrounds you.
Return to the city center for a dinner experience that highlights traditional Valdivian cuisine. Try local specialties such as pastel de choclo or empanadas. After dinner, join a local dance class or live music event to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Valdivia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧺Groceries for 2-3 days | $15-25 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $3-7 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coffee-country scenery and friendly locals
- Relaxed pace and easy access to nature
- Authentic regional cuisine and markets
- Limited public transportation outside town
- Smaller town amenities compared with bigger cities
- Rural infrastructure can be variable
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo está?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Valdivia
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated viewpoint overlooking the valley with coffee farms and forested hills.
Promenade along the river with reflections at dawn or dusk.
Renewed pedestrian bridge offering river and town views, especially dramatic at golden hour.
Pastel-coloured houses and a small plaza ideal for street photography.
Terraced plots on surrounding hillsides—great for landscape and macro shots of coffee plants.
Food in Valdivia
Valdivia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa served warm, a staple breakfast or snack.
Must-Try!
A hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, plantain, egg, and avocado; portions skew large.
Crispy pork belly with yuca, a popular fried dish in the region.
Simple chicken soup with corn, plantains, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh fruit, coffee, arepas, pastries, and quick bites.
Casual stalls selling arepas, empanadas, and grilled corn with lime and salt.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola and handshake; maintain eye contact.
Use usted with elders and in formal settings; be polite and patient when asking for directions.
If offered coffee, accept as a courtesy; respect the pacing of conversations and meals.
In churches or religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats.
Safety
Tipping in Valdivia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. For taxis and hotel staff, small tips are welcome.
Cash and cards are commonly accepted in towns; smaller shops may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with cooler mornings and mild afternoons; still occasional showers possible; great for outdoor exploring.
Frequent showers and mist, lush greenery, and dramatic cloudy skies; plan indoor breaks and waterproof gear.
Valdivia at Night
Hiking in Valdivia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail to a small waterfall with forest shade and easy to moderate terrain.
Elevated trail with panoramic valley views and photo opportunities.
Gentle path around a coffee plantation with explanations about cultivation.
Airports
How to reach Valdivia by plane.
Main international and domestic hub near Medellín, about 1.5-2 hours by car from Valdivia, depending on traffic.
Domestic airport in Medellín; a shorter drive but more limited international connections; typically used for regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents participate in coffee growing and rural livelihoods.
A younger demographic in the town center seeking education and work opportunities.
Longstanding families with deep ties to the community and local traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national passion; watch or join pickup games in the plaza or fields.
Popular among locals; scenic rides through valley roads and hills.
Traditional Colombian lawn game played in casual bars and plazas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Valdivia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted with beans, corn, plantains, cheese, and vegetables; ask for vegetarian options on the menu.