Mompós - Discovering Colombia

Travelling to Mompós

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mompós, a pretty good destination in Colombia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mompós and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mompós, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Colombia, here's everything to know about Mompós for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mompós

Mompós, also known as Santa Cruz de Mompox, is a small town located in northern Colombia, near the Magdalena River. It is a colonial-era town that was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistadors. Mompós is well known for its beautiful colonial architecture, its religious celebrations, and its cultural traditions, like the famous Mompox Jazz Festival. The town has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and cultural value. The climate is tropical, with hot temperatures throughout the year, so it is recommended to visit during the dry season, which runs from December to March.

What to visit in Mompós

Certainly! Here are some tourist attractions of Mompós, Colombia: 1. Santa Bárbara de Mompox Church: This 16th-century church is one of Mompós' most notable landmarks. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, and features an impressive baroque architecture and decoration.
2. La Casa de la Cultura: This cultural center is housed in a colonial-era building and offers exhibitions of the region's traditional art and crafts, as well as live music and dance performances.
3. The Mompox Cemetery: This historic cemetery features ornate tombs and mausoleums, some dating back to the colonial era, and is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in South America.
4. The Magdalena River: This mighty river runs through Mompós and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take boat tours along the river to explore nearby mangroves and wetlands.
5. San Francisco de Asis Convent: This convent, founded in the early 17th century, is one of the oldest buildings in Mompós. It features a beautiful cloister and is home to a museum showcasing the history of the region.
6. Municipal Palace: This colonial-era building houses Mompós' local government offices and is considered one of the city's most impressive architectural landmarks.
7. Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción: This church, also known as the Church of the Immaculate Conception, is one of Mompós' oldest and most beautiful churches. It features a stunning facade and a baroque-style interior.
8. Casa de la Cultura Almirante Padilla: This cultural center is named in honor of Admiral José Prudencio Padilla, a Mompós native who played a key role in Colombia's independence movement. It offers exhibitions on the city's history and culture.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions that Mompós has to offer. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the city's narrow, cobblestone streets, trying local cuisine, and visiting nearby natural attractions like El Santuario de Flora y Fauna los Colorados, a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Colombia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mompós.

When to go on holiday to Mompós

The best time to visit Mompós, Colombia is during the dry season which runs from December to March. During this time, the weather is sunny and relatively dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. However, as Mompós is a historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also worth visiting any time of the year, even during the rainy season which runs from April to November. It is important to note that while the rainy season brings lush green landscapes, it also brings a higher risk of flooding and transportation difficulties.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mompós

To get to Mompós, Colombia, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Cartagena: The easiest way to get to Mompós is to fly to Cartagena. Rafael Núñez International Airport receives flights from major cities in the U.S. and Europe.
2. Take a taxi to the bus terminal: Once you arrive at the Cartagena airport, you'll need to take a taxi to the bus terminal. It's about a 15-minute drive.
3. Take a bus to Mompós: From the bus terminal in Cartagena, take a bus to Mompós. The journey takes between 6 to 7 hours depending on the traffic, and the bus fare is around $30 USD.
Alternatively, you can also take a private car or a shared taxi from Cartagena to Mompós. These methods are faster and more convenient, but they can be more expensive.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mompós, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mompós

Mompós, a colonial town located in the department of Bolívar, Colombia, has a rich culinary tradition that reflects the region’s history and cultural influences. Some typical foods of Mompós include: 1. Bollo Limpio: A steamed cornmeal dough that is wrapped in plantain leaves and served with cheese, butter, or honey. Often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
2. Tamales: A classic Colombian dish made of corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, then wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed. In Mompós, tamales are typically made with chicken or pork.
3. Sopa de tortuga (turtle soup): Considered a delicacy in the region, this soup is made with turtle meat, onions, garlic, potatoes, and other vegetables. It is typically consumed during special occasions, such as Christmas.
4. Chicharrón: Deep-fried pork belly or pork rind served as a snack or appetizer. Crispy and flavorful, it is often garnished with lime juice and hot sauce.
5. Arroz con coco (coconut rice): A popular side dish made with rice, coconut milk, and seasoning. It pairs well with fish or shrimp dishes.
6. Dulce de guayaba (guava candy): A sweet treat made from guava pulp, sugar, and spices. It is often served as a dessert or snack.
7. Arepa de huevo: A type of stuffed arepa, a traditional Colombian corn cake. It is filled with egg and fried until crispy on the outside and is typically served for breakfast or as a snack.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique foods that you can try in Mompós!
You can find general info about typical foods in Colombia here.

Is Mompós an expensive destination for tourists?

Mompós (Colombia) can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists, but it also depends on the standard of living that you are accustomed to. Accommodation and dining options in Mompós can be a bit pricey compared to other destinations in Colombia. However, if you are willing to look for budget-friendly options or travel during off-peak season, you can save some money. Attractions like museums, churches, and historic sites usually do not have high entrance fees, which is a plus. Overall, Mompós can be a slightly more expensive destination compared to some other destinations in Colombia, but it is still a charming and worthwhile place to visit.

Where to find accomodation in Mompós

Mompós is a small colonial town located in the Bolívar Department of Colombia. Most accommodations in Mompós are located within the historic center of the town, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the popular areas to find accommodations in Mompós are: 1. Calle de la Albarrada: This street is known for its colorful colonial houses, museums, and churches. Many guesthouses and small hotels can be found in this area.
2. Plaza de la Concepción: This plaza is located in the heart of the historic center and is surrounded by colonial-style buildings. Several guesthouses and boutique hotels are located in this area.
3. Calle Real: This street runs parallel to the Magdalena River and is a popular destination for tourists. Several mid-range hotels and hostels can be found here.
4. Barrio Santa Barbara: This neighborhood is a little further away from the historic center but offers a quieter and more residential area to stay. Some guesthouses and apartments for rent can be found in this area.
You can check hotel prices at Mompós here:
Booking.com

Is Mompós a safe destination for tourists?

Mompós is generally considered safe for tourists by the Colombian authorities and locals. However, it is important to take some precautions as with any destination you visit. It's recommended to avoid travelling alone at night, to stay in established accommodations, and to not display valuables in public. It's also recommended to always have a copy of your ID and to take extra care with your belongings.
In general, a visit to Mompós can be an enjoyable and safe experience if you take the necessary precautions.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Colombia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mompós.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mompós the most?

Mompós is a beautiful colonial town in Colombia with a rich cultural history. It's a great destination for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and architecture. The town is quite peaceful and laid back, making it ideal for couples or families looking for a relaxing vacation. The riverfront and colonial architecture offer beautiful backdrops for romantic photo shoots and the town's historical sites provide a great educational opportunity for families with children.
Mompós is not the best destination for young people looking for exciting nightlife or party atmosphere as it is a small town with limited nightlife options. Overall, it's a charming colonial town with a peaceful and serene atmosphere that will appeal to history buffs and travelers looking for a relaxing vacation.

How to get around Mompós

The best way to move around Mompós is by walking or cycling since the town is small and easy to navigate on foot or on a bike. However, you can also use a motorcycle taxi or tuk-tuk for short distances, and for longer trips, you can rent a car or take a public bus. Keep in mind that the roads in Mompós are not all paved or in good condition, so some areas may be difficult to navigate with a car.

What to see around Mompós

Certainly, here are some places to visit that are ideal for a day trip from Mompós: 1. El Banco: This town is located around 35 km away from Mompós and is known for its colonial architecture and historic buildings.
2. Ciénaga de Pijiño: This natural reserve is a great spot for bird-watching and exploring mangroves, located 20 km from Mompós.
3. Complejo Volcánico de los Montes de María: This volcanic complex is situated around 40 km from Mompós and has several hiking trails and viewpoints for enjoying scenic views.
4. El Santuario de la Vírgen de Las Mercedes: This historic shrine is located in the town of La Victoria, around 20 km away from Mompós.
5. Barbacoas: This picturesque village is famous for its pottery and handicrafts, located around 27 km from Mompós.
I hope this information helps you plan your day trips from Mompós effectively.
For every travel information about Colombia you can click here.

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