Things To Do
in Colón
Colón, Venezuela is a small inland town in central Venezuela known for its river life, markets, and laid-back pace. The town sits along waterways that support fishing, agriculture, and local crafts, giving it an authentic, down-to-earth vibe. Visitors can explore plazas, colonial-era streets, and nearby natural areas while sampling Afro-Venezuelan and regional flavors.
Plan for flexible travel in and around Colón, as transport options can be limited and day trips reveal the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional arepas and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic center of Colón, marveling at the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the Plaza Bolívar, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and observe local life.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby Museo de Arte de Colón, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of the region through various exhibits. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, trying out regional specialties such as pabellón criollo. A visit to the local market will provide you with an authentic shopping experience, where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood dishes while enjoying views of the Caribbean Sea. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the evening breezes and lively atmosphere. You might also encounter local musicians performing, adding to the vibrant nightlife.
Kick off your day at Playa Cautivo, a stunning beach known for its soft sands and clear waters. Spend the morning lounging under the sun or taking a refreshing swim in the Caribbean Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the nearby coves and rock formations.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachside bar, where you can enjoy tropical drinks and fresh ceviche. In the afternoon, partake in water sports such as jet skiing or windsurfing, experiencing the thrill of the waves. Alternatively, you can simply relax on the beach with a good book, soaking in the sun.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beach bonfire where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow travelers. Afterward, indulge in a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, where the catch of the day is prepared with a unique twist. The evening ends with a stroll along the shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽Three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town (short trip) | $2-7 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for basics | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic local culture and markets
- Gateway to riverine nature and plains
- Potentially low-cost travel experiences
- Relaxed pace of life
- Limited infrastructure and transport options
- Occasional safety concerns typical of remote towns
- Fewer international-standard amenities
- Internet can be slow or unreliable
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
Places to Visit in Colón
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic main square framed by colonial buildings and a central clock tower.
Golden-hour reflections and riverbank activity offer atmospheric photo opportunities.
Colorful market façades and candid daily-life scenes.
Narrow lanes and pastel facades ideal for street photography.
Elevated spots or river bends provide dramatic evening silhouettes.
Food in Colón
Colón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef over rice with black beans and fried plantains—a Venezuela-wide staple.
Must-Try!
Grilled corn flatbread stuffed with cheese and seasoned meat.
Hearty fish stew with yucca, plantains, and fresh herbs.
Sweet corn pancakes folded with fresh cheese.
Fried fish served with fried plantain slices (patacones).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh produce, fish, and local snacks.
Street vendors offering empanadas, arepas, and fried plantains; great for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with a polite greeting is standard; use usted with elders.
Light, modest clothing is appropriate; respectful attire in churches and formal spaces.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.
Avoid highly sensitive political topics in casual settings.
Safety
Tipping in Colón
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good; small tips for taxi drivers; carry small bills for tips.
Cash in local currency is common; USD may be accepted at some spots; cards are less widely accepted; ATMs can be limited outside major towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright, sunny days with lower humidity; great for outdoor exploring but carry sun protection and water.
Higher humidity and occasional showers; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a light rain jacket.
Colón at Night
Hiking in Colón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate walks with water views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Day hikes exploring the transition between plains and wooded areas.
Airports
How to reach Colón by plane.
Major international gateway; serves as the primary long-distance connection point for travelers heading to eastern Venezuela.
Coastal eastern Venezuela hub; handles domestic flights and some regional connections.
Western Venezuela gateway; serves regional routes and occasional international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse population with rich cultural influences in food, music, and daily life.
Many residents work in agriculture and related trades around the town.
Nearby riverine areas host Warao and other communities linked to the Orinoco basin.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; regular matches at schools and local fields.
Widely played and followed; strong community participation.
Common in parks and community centers; evening games are popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist in many eateries via arepas, beans, plantains, and salads; ask for 'sin carne' or 'opciones vegetarianas' and request vegetables or cheese-based dishes.