Tumaco - Discovering Colombia

Travelling to Tumaco

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tumaco, 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 Tumaco 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 Tumaco, 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 Tumaco for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tumaco

Tumaco is a port city located on the Pacific coast of Colombia, in the Nariño Department. It is known for its vibrant Afro-Colombian culture, beautiful beaches, and abundant natural resources. Tumaco is also home to the Bocas de Satinga National Park, where visitors can explore mangrove forests and observe an array of wildlife. The city has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and heavy rainfall during the wet season between April and December. Tumaco has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its traditional music, food, and festivities.

What to visit in Tumaco

Tumaco is a small city located in the southern part of Colombia, near the border with Ecuador. It is a charming destination known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood cuisine, and vibrant Afro-Colombian culture. Here are some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Tumaco: 1. Bocagrande Beach - A stunning, palm tree-lined beach with crystal clear waters and white sand, Bocagrande Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. It is one of the most popular beaches in Tumaco, and is surrounded by a number of hotels and restaurants.
2. Museo Batel - Located in the historic center of Tumaco, Museo Batel is a cultural center that showcases the history and traditions of the Afro-Colombian people. The museum houses a number of exhibitions, including one on the history of the region's black population, and another on the traditional music, dance, and folklore of the area.
3. Mangrove Eco-tour - Tumaco is home to a vast network of mangrove forests, which are home to a number of different species of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and reptiles. Visitors can take a guided eco-tour through the mangroves, which is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
4. Playa Chucheros - Another popular beach in Tumaco, Playa Chucheros is known for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets. It is a quieter and more secluded beach than Bocagrande, which makes it a great spot for relaxation and romantic walks.
5. Pueblo Viejo - A historic neighborhood in Tumaco, Pueblo Viejo is home to a number of traditional colonial-style homes and buildings, many of which date back several centuries. Visitors can wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the colorful facades of these historic buildings.
6. Tumaco Street Food Tour - Tumaco is known for its delicious seafood cuisine, and there are a number of street vendors and small restaurants throughout the city that offer up fresh and flavorful dishes. A food tour is a great way to taste your way through Tumaco and experience the local cuisine.
7. Isla del Morro - A small island located just off the coast of Tumaco, Isla del Morro is a great spot for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. It is also home to a number of restaurants and beach bars, which makes it a great spot for a day trip.
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 Tumaco.

When to go on holiday to Tumaco

The best time to visit Tumaco, Colombia is between December and March, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and spending time at the beach. The wet season in Tumaco is between April to November, where the city is subject to heavy rains and strong winds. If you want to avoid the rain, it's best to plan your trip during the dry season.

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

How to get to Tumaco

To get to Tumaco, here are the steps you can follow: 1. By Air: The best way to reach Tumaco is by air. Several airlines offer flights from Bogota to Tumaco, including Avianca and Latam Airlines. The flight time is around 2 hours.
2. By Land and Sea: Another option is to take a bus from Cali or Pasto to Buenaventura, then catch a ferry to Tumaco. The ferry ride takes around 4-6 hours depending on the weather conditions.
3. Private Car: You can also rent a car and drive to Tumaco from nearby cities. The drive from Cali takes around 8 hours, while the drive from Pasto takes around 5 hours.
It's important to note that Tumaco is located on the Pacific Coast of Colombia, so you may want to plan your trip during the dry season (December to March) to avoid heavy rainfall and possible road closures.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tumaco, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tumaco

Tumaco, a city located in the Pacific coast of Colombia, is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, influenced by African, Indigenous, and Spanish cultures. Here are some typical foods of Tumaco, with a short description for each of them: 1. Encocado de Pescado: A traditional fish stew made with coconut milk, peppers, onions, and garlic. It is usually served with white rice, patacones (fried plantains), and salad.
2. Cazuela de Mariscos: A hearty seafood soup with a tomato and coconut milk broth, filled with shrimp, squid, octopus, and fish. It is typically served with rice, avocado, and lime.
3. Arroz Tumaco: A rice dish cooked with seafood, coconut milk, vegetables, and spices. It is usually served with fried plantains and salad.
4. Fritos de Pescado: Deep-fried fish balls made with mashed plantains, cilantro, onions, and spices. They are served as a snack or appetizer, and often accompanied by a tangy tamarind sauce.
5. Chontaduro: A fruit with a sweet and nutty flavor, often eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in desserts, jams, and drinks.
6. Enyucado: A dessert made with grated yucca, sugar, coconut, and cinnamon. It is typically baked in banana leaves and served with coffee or hot chocolate.
7. Biche: A type of smoked and dried beef or pork, often used as a seasoning in soups, stews, and rice dishes.
8. Jugos de Lulo: A refreshing juice made with lulo fruit, which has a tangy and citrusy flavor. It is often mixed with water and sugar to make a sweet and sour drink.
You can find general info about typical foods in Colombia here.

Is Tumaco an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Colombia, Tumaco can be considered slightly more expensive for tourists. However, it is still relatively affordable when compared to other international destinations. Prices will depend on the season and the type of accommodation or activities you choose. It is recommended to budget for the cost of food, transportation, lodging, and any excursions or activities you plan to do during your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Tumaco

In Tumaco, the best areas to find accommodation are typically in or near the city center, near the Las Palmas, El Morro or El Bajito neighborhoods, or closer to the beautiful beaches in the surrounding areas such as La Mocha or Bocagrande. Additionally, some travelers opt for hotels close to the airport on the outskirts of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Tumaco here:
Booking.com

Is Tumaco a safe destination for tourists?

Tumaco has had a history of security concerns due to its location on the Pacific coast, but in recent years the Colombian government has made significant efforts to improve security in the area. It is still recommended that tourists take necessary precautions while traveling in Tumaco, such as avoiding certain neighborhoods at night and being aware of their surroundings. It is also advisable to seek the advice of local authorities or a trusted tour guide when planning activities in the area. Overall, with proper precautions, Tumaco can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
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 Tumaco.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tumaco the most?

Tumaco is a coastal city located in the Pacific region of Colombia. It is a great destination for people who love water activities such as surfing, fishing, and beach hopping. Tumaco also has a rich Afro-Colombian culture, which makes it a great place for cultural immersion and exploration.
Based on these characteristics, Tumaco is a destination that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. However, it may be more suitable for adventurous travelers, families with older children, and couples who are interested in exploring the outdoors and experiencing cultural immersion. Young people looking for nightlife or party scenes may not find many options in Tumaco, as it is a more laid-back destination.

How to get around Tumaco

In Tumaco, the most common modes of transportation are taxis and moto-taxis. Buses and boats are also available for longer trips or transportation to nearby islands. It's important to note that the roads in Tumaco can be in poor condition, so a sturdy vehicle or boat may be necessary for travel.

What to see around Tumaco

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tumaco, Colombia: 1. Isla de la Plata: This uninhabited island is located 45 minutes by boat from Tumaco and is known for its diverse wildlife and geological formations.
2. Bocagrande: This beach is located just 30 minutes from Tumaco and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
3. Sanquianga National Park: Located about two hours from Tumaco, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and opportunities for hiking and exploring.
4. Isla del Morro: This island is a popular destination for day trips from Tumaco due to its secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters.
5. Punta Soldado: This small fishing village is located about an hour from Tumaco and offers a glimpse into local culture and traditions.
6. Playa Chucheros: This secluded beach is located about an hour and a half from Tumaco and is a great spot for surfing and snorkeling.
7. La Tolita Archaeological Site: This ancient site is located about two hours from Tumaco and features remnants of the pre-Columbian Tolita civilization.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Colombia you can click here.

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