10 Colorful and Local Things to Do Year-Round in Tulua Colombia

Key takeaways:

• Tuluá is a vibrant city in Valle del Cauca known for its music, festivals, and lush nature spots that shine year-round.

• The region offers a mix of hikes, local markets, cultural events, and riverside adventures perfect for all seasons.

• Whether you’re into dancing, relaxing, or exploring, Tuluá invites you to experience Colombia beyond the usual tourist trail.

Tucked into the heart of Colombia’s Valle del Cauca region, Tuluá is a city where tradition and nature blend into one colorful experience. It’s often overlooked for Cali or Medellín, but Tuluá has its own charm: think salsa-filled weekends, local food you won’t forget, and access to some of the most beautiful countryside in the country. Historically, Tuluá has been a key agricultural hub and cultural melting pot, and it still maintains that laid-back, authentic vibe. People love this city for its easy pace, friendly energy, and the way it connects you to Colombia’s roots. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend or staying longer, Tuluá is a place that rewards curiosity—any time of year.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll Through Parque Bolívar and the City Center

2. Hike to La Rivera Waterfall

3. Dance Salsa at a Local Vallenato Bar

4. Explore the Tuluá Farmers Market

5. Float Down the Rio Tuluá on an Inner Tube

6. Visit the Annual Feria de Tuluá in June

7. Take a Day Trip to Lago Calima

8. Check Out the Botanical Garden Juan María Céspedes

9. Try Valle del Cauca Street Food like Aborrajado and Chontaduro

10. Join a Local Coffee Tasting Tour in the Surrounding Countryside

1. Stroll Through Parque Bolívar and the City Center

At the heart of Tuluá lies Parque Bolívar, a lively city square framed by palm trees, street vendors, and the stunning Iglesia San Bartolomé. Locals gather here at all hours—families during the day, musicians in the evening, and friends catching up on a bench with ice cream in hand. The energy is steady but chill, and the atmosphere is perfect for people-watching or joining in a game of chess with friendly locals.

The surrounding city center is a maze of shops, small eateries, and colorful murals that reflect the pride of the community. Everything is walkable, and you’ll find little surprises on every corner—from old bookstores to juice bars selling lulo or maracuyá. This is where you feel the rhythm of daily life in Tuluá, not a tourist version, but the real thing. A stroll here works in any season and is the best way to settle into the city.

2. Hike to La Rivera Waterfall

One of the most beautiful nature escapes in the area is the short hike to La Rivera Waterfall, tucked into the green hills just outside the city. The trail is moderately easy and follows a stream through lush vegetation, where you might spot butterflies, orchids, and small birds native to Valle del Cauca. The reward at the end? A cool cascade pouring into a crystal-clear pool, perfect for a swim.

Locals often hike here on weekends, especially early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun. It’s a year-round adventure, though the path can be slippery after rain—good shoes are a must. Bring snacks, water, and your camera because the scenery is totally Instagram-worthy. This is one of those places that feels like a secret even when it’s only minutes from the city.

3. Dance Salsa at a Local Vallenato Bar

Music is in Tuluá’s blood, and there’s no better way to experience it than by spending an evening in a vallenato or salsa bar. These spots range from small open-air venues with plastic chairs and cold beers to high-energy dance halls where the rhythm never stops. Don’t worry if you’re new to salsa—people here are happy to teach, and it’s more about feeling the music than perfect moves.

Many bars have live bands, especially on weekends, and locals love when travelers join the fun. The atmosphere is inclusive and electric, with clapping, dancing, and lots of laughter. You’ll probably end the night with a few new friends and a much better sense of Colombia’s musical soul. It’s a year-round experience, but it shines brightest on Friday and Saturday nights.

4. Explore the Tuluá Farmers Market

If you want to experience the local flavor—literally and culturally—head to the city’s farmers market, which comes alive early in the morning with rows of fresh fruit, local cheeses, herbs, and handmade goods. Here you’ll find ingredients unique to the region, like chontaduro, borojó, and guanábana, all stacked in colorful piles and sold by smiling vendors.

It’s more than a market—it’s a cultural exchange. You’ll hear stories from the farmers, get recipe tips, and maybe even try some fresh panela juice or fried plantain on the spot. It’s open year-round, with Saturday being the most vibrant day. Go early, bring cash, and come hungry—you’ll leave with both snacks and memories.

5. Float Down the Rio Tuluá on an Inner Tube

For a fun and cooling experience, grab a tube and float down the Río Tuluá, a refreshing river that winds around the city’s outskirts. Locals often come here on warm days to cool off, splash with friends, or just enjoy the slow current and natural surroundings. It’s a low-cost, low-effort adventure that’s just as enjoyable in the off-season.

You can rent tubes from nearby stands, and the best float spots are known by locals—just ask around. Pack water-safe shoes, sunscreen, and a dry bag for your phone or snacks. This is one of the easiest ways to connect with Tuluá’s natural side without leaving town. It’s also incredibly fun—especially on a hot day when all you want is to drift and chill.

6. Visit the Annual Feria de Tuluá in June

Every June, Tuluá throws one of the most exciting parties in the region—La Feria de Tuluá. This annual event is a fusion of agriculture, music, culture, and carnival spirit. Expect horse parades, beauty contests, live vallenato and salsa concerts, traditional food stalls, and artisan markets. It’s a true showcase of Valle del Cauca’s energy and pride.

Locals prepare for months in advance, and the city transforms into a festival ground buzzing with parades and performances. While it’s especially lively in June, smaller cultural events related to the fair happen throughout the year. If your visit aligns with the main festival, you’re in for a unique, hyper-local experience that goes way beyond sightseeing. Book early—hotels and hostels fill fast during this time.

7. Take a Day Trip to Lago Calima

Just under two hours from Tuluá is Lago Calima, a massive artificial lake known for its windsurfing, kiteboarding, and breezy weather. It’s a popular weekend escape for locals thanks to its cooler temperatures and wide-open space for water sports, camping, and relaxing by the lake. You can rent a paddleboard, take a dip, or just kick back with an arepa and a cold drink.

There are plenty of lakeside restaurants and cabins for rent, so you can easily turn it into a full-day or overnight getaway. Winds tend to be stronger in the afternoons—great for sports, but also perfect for flying kites or simply cooling off. It’s an easy adventure and well worth the trip. Just bring a jacket—Lago Calima is surprisingly cool, even in the hottest months.

8. Check Out the Botanical Garden Juan María Céspedes

For a peaceful escape just outside the city, visit the Botanical Garden Juan María Céspedes, located in nearby Tuluá rural zones. This garden is part of a larger conservation center and showcases the rich biodiversity of the region—from towering palms and orchids to medicinal plants used by Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities.

You can stroll through shaded trails, visit the butterfly enclosure, or join a guided tour focused on sustainability and native ecosystems. It’s a great year-round spot for learning, walking, and unwinding in nature. Bring your camera and a notebook—this place is full of photo ops and interesting plant facts. Quiet, green, and deeply grounding, it’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

9. Try Valle del Cauca Street Food like Aborrajado and Chontaduro

Food is an experience in Tuluá, and the street food here deserves its own spotlight. Try aborrajado—a deep-fried ripe plantain stuffed with cheese and often dipped in batter. Or snack on chontaduro, a bright orange fruit often served hot with honey and salt (or lime if you’re lucky).

Street vendors pop up in the parks, near the church, and around nightlife areas, especially in the evenings. These snacks are cheap, filling, and packed with local flavor. Don’t hesitate to ask vendors what they recommend—you might discover something totally new. Street food is more than just tasty here—it’s a connection to culture, made one bite at a time.

10. Join a Local Coffee Tasting Tour in the Surrounding Countryside

Tuluá sits in prime coffee territory, and several farms in the surrounding hills offer coffee tours and tastings. These experiences take you through the full process—from bean to cup—often on family-run fincas where traditions go back generations. You’ll walk the fields, roast beans by hand, and of course, sip freshly brewed Colombian coffee while looking out at the mountains.

Most tours can be booked directly or through local travel guides. They run year-round, with harvest periods (April–June, September–December) being especially lively. It’s a sensory experience that’s rich in flavor and tradition. And trust us—the coffee tastes even better when you’ve met the hands that grew it.

What to do if you have kids?

Tuluá is a fun and manageable city for traveling families. The city parks offer safe spaces to play, while nearby rivers and waterfalls provide mini-adventures ideal for curious kids. The Botanical Garden is a great outdoor learning spot, and music festivals like the Feria de Tuluá are full of dancing, snacks, and colorful parades that kids love. Street food is kid-friendly (who doesn’t love fried plantains?), and the warm culture here means locals are often quick to smile and welcome your little ones. Just bring sun protection and stay hydrated—there’s plenty to explore together.

Where can I find free events in Tulua Valle del Cauca taking place this weekend?

The best way to find free cultural events, outdoor activities, and community experiences happening in Tuluá this weekend is by using PlanMyWeekend.ai. Whether you’re searching for live music, artisan markets, dance workshops, or outdoor movie nights, the platform curates real-time, alcohol-free events you won’t find on generic travel sites. It’s perfect for travelers and locals who want to connect with authentic, zero-cost experiences around the city. Just select your location and vibe, and PlanMyWeekend does the rest.

Final thoughts on planning your trip to Tulua

Tuluá may not be Colombia’s most famous destination, but that’s exactly why it feels so real. It’s a place where music plays from storefronts, rivers run just outside the city, and people greet you with warmth, not polish. Here, you can dance under the stars, float down a river, and taste fruit you’ve never heard of—all in the same day. Whether you’re in town for a festival or just passing through, Tuluá invites you to slow down and feel connected. This is Colombia, close-up and full of soul.