Have you ever wondered what to do and see in a small town where every corner whispers tales of tradition and natural beauty? Then check out how to spend the day in enchanting Usiacurí, Colombia: a petit, captivating pueblo in the Atlántico department.

The municipality of Usiacurí is about 40 square miles (104 sq km), and the main part of town, located among lush green forests with busy narrow streets, is about 25 miles (40 km) from the vibrant city of Barranquilla. 

Are you ready to discover the splendor and learn why you must include Usiacurí on your next visit to Colombia? Let’s go!

How to Spend An Enchanting Day in Usiacurí, Colombia with Costeño Friends

If you’re a regular reader of my blog you already know I spent four incredible years living, working, writing, and traveling in Colombia, South America.

While in this magical country, I learned Costeño Spanish, experienced wild challenges and blissful miracles, made friends almost everywhere, and fell madly in love with the food, music, culture, and people. Especially the people.

When I finally left, I vowed to return every year until I could, once again, call Colombia home – or at least do so for part of my year.

True to my promise, I return annually to Colombia and savor the splendor of this beautiful, biodiverse, and culturally rich South American country.

Since I always make it a point to visit friends in La Arenosa, when a beloved Barranquillero – and an amazing guide with friends from around the world – suggested we visit Usiacurí for the day, I jumped at the chance. If a local friend invites you to see a place, say yes! You never know what adventure lies ahead.

As I waited for a taxi to take me from the north to the south of Colombia’s fourth largest city, I did some quick research about Usiacurí, learning it is known for its vibrant handicrafts and welcoming community. The town is a proverbial “hidden gem” offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture.

A Brief History of Usiacurí

Usiacurí – pronounced /oo-si-ah-koor-ee/ – has a rich history that dates back to pre-Colombian times. The original inhabitants were known for their skilled craftsmanship and self-sufficiency.  While the town was founded on September 17, 1534, the municipality of Usiacurí was not created until October 23, 1856.

There is debate about the town’s name, which some say comes from a Spanish word meaning “golden land”, while others claim it is from two Indigenous tribal leaders named Usia and Curí. While the name remains uncertain, one thing that is sure about Usiacurí is this place is a testament to time and tradition.

During the colonial era, Usiacurí became known for its healing mineral springs and natural crafts, attracting visitors from across the globe. Today, the town mesmerizes visitors with its unique blend of history and herencia, as well as celebrations including “Los Sabores de mi Tierra,” a food festival for the region.

Nicknamed the Manger of Atlanticó for its traditional houses with colorful rooftops, Usiacurí is a treasure trove of cultural heritage known for its intricate handicrafts and welcoming community.

Getting To Usiacurí from Barranquilla

Traveling to Usiacurí from Barranquilla is quite straightforward. Like most travelers in South America, you have options for nearly every budget and preference.

You can take a taxi, bus, or rented car. To go by taxi – or a hired collectivo that will accommodate several travelers – as our group did, the trip costs around $30-$40 USD total and takes about an hour.

For a more economical option, you can catch a bus from Barranquilla’s main terminal to Baranoa and then transfer to a local bus heading to Usiacurí. Optionally, there are direct buses managed by Cootransguajaro, which you can catch from several places in Barranquilla city. The total bus fare is approximately $5 USD, and, because they often change scheduled times and pick-up spots, the best way to find these buses is to ask at your hotel.

Finally, you can rent a car through a local company. Though I prefer public transportation for its price, reliability, and frequency, renting a car is a good option if you want the flexibility of exploring at your own pace. Remember, you’ll need insurance and a licensed driver to rent a vehicle, but the road to Usiacurí is well-paved with scenic, country views.

For our daytime adventure, my friend Egardo, his sister, her son, and another friend visiting from the United Kingdom, split the fare for a taxi. The ride was speedy, safe, mostly uneventful, and featured the comfort of air conditioning – life on the coast is siempre caluroso.

Local Climate and What to Wear

Usiacurí enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. During the day, temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C), so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Think casual – shorts with pockets or cool walking pants, and layered cotton or other moisture-wicking fabric for tops.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the best way to explore Usiacurí is on foot, and closed-toed shoes are best to avoid injuries. Stay practical for your daytime adventure and pack a small backpack: bring a hat, sunglasses, bottled water, and sunscreen. You may also want to include a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.

Things to See and Do

Arriving at Usiacurí, I was in awe of the colors, fresh air, and friendly faces that greeted us as we departed from the taxi. We started with a snack at a small tienda that featured a panaderia offering pan de Bono, deditos de queso, pan de guayaba, among other delicious, fresh baked Colombian breads.

We loaded up our backpacks with cold Cola y Pola – a soft drink mixed with beer in a can – and other refreshing beverages, and headed out to our first stop: the stunning Templo Santo Domingo de Guzman.

Templo Santo Domingo de Guzman is a beautiful example of colonial religious architecture. The church, with its intricate woodwork and vibrant blue and white colors, is located several steps up and overlooks most of the main downtown area of Usiacurí. While the church was closed on the day we visited, it didn’t deter us from enjoying its beauty and natural tranquility.

The church has benches on the grounds for relaxing, a delightful gazebo in an adjacent park, and sits across from the Alcadía Municipal – City Hall. Its proximity makes it the perfect place to immerse yourself in the town’s spiritual and historical ambiance.

After taking in the splendor of Templo Santo Domingo de Guzman, head down to the main road and look for a motocarro to take you for a few pesos to the Inmueble Patrimonial Julio Flórez, the former home of the famous Colombian poet. The house is now a museum dedicated to his life and works, offering a fascinating glimpse into Colombia’s literary history.

If you’ve never ridden in a motocarro, you’re in for a treat, and the ones in Usiacurí will hopefully bring a smile to your face! Zipping along the narrow streets of this sweet little town in a colorful, open-sided mini motorcycle car, you can feel the magic of Usiacurí come alive all around you. Try to bring small bills so you can pay the taxista the exact amount without needing change.

Once at the Inmueble Patrimonial Julio Flórez, you’ll notice a large, colorful staircase next to the home and a sizable plaza directly across the street.

Local artists, schools, and businesses use the plaza, which features free WiFi and a well-sized, outdoor amphitheater.

The home of Julio Florez has a museum with his writings on display, offering tours and hosting literary events throughout the year.

After soaking in some culture, we began hiking amid the Pozos Minerales, mineral springs in deep wells set among thick forest trees. These natural springs, believed to have healing properties, were once a significant draw for visitors.

The lush greenery and serene environment provided a perfect backdrop for an adventurous hike. Since it had rained recently, the ground was a bit muddy and soft, but the air was fresh and cool. We hiked for over an hour, turning back as the sun set: a sign that it was time to catch our bus back to Barranquilla.

Eat and Drink

Exploring Usiacurí, you’ll work up an appetite. This is a great time to savor some traditional Costeño cuisine. Try dishes like sancocho de gallina, a hearty chicken stew, arroz de coco, aromatic coconut rice, or – my favorite – arepas de queso con huevo, fried corn flour cakes stuffed with egg and cheese. Colombian food is comforting and delicious, and, most often, a showcase of the culinary talents of the Caribbean coast.

For refreshments, sip on some agua de panela – a sweet drink made from unrefined cane sugar and fresh lime – or try a refreshing limonada de coco – my favorite, coconut lemonade. Both beverages are perfect for cooling down in the tropical heat.

While the town of Usiacurí may not be known for Michelin-star eateries, you can find good, inexpensive food in the welcoming, local restaurants along the main streets. Two tasty places to try: Restaurante La Magia de las Flores, Calle 17 # 20B-68 in Barrio Transversal Julio Florez, which serves traditional Colombian dishes, and Anhelos Usiacurí, Calle 14 N 16 -04, a frutería famous for its delicious desserts, luscious ice cream, and colorful fruit drinks.

Souvenirs and Artisanal Goods

Usiacurí is renowned for its artisanal crafts, particularly its intricate woven baskets and handcrafted jewelry. These items make perfect, unique, price-wise souvenirs and testify to the town’s rich artisanal tradition.

Visit Artesanías Park to browse beautiful, locally-made goods including baskets, hats, and handbags made from Iraca palm trees. For hundreds of years, makers have created gorgeous bags, coasters, and placemats while working with the plantation, harvest, and preparation of cherished fibers.

While most Iraca palm items are sold in a lovely, neutral tone, the artists also use the plant’s leaves, minerals, roots, and seeds to create bright, rainbow colors.

Heading Back to Barranquilla

After a day of exploring, as the sun began sinking and illuminating Usiacurí with a warm, soft glow, it was time to head back to Barranquilla.

For the return trip, our group agreed to take the bus, a large, colorful land yacht we caught from the center of town across from the Iglesia de Santo Domingo de Guzman. We boarded the bus and waited several minutes for it to fill up with passengers. The seats were plush and cozy, and the driver played Vallenato music, making the ride even more enjoyable.

A word to the wise: catch a local bus from Usiacurí that goes directly to Barranquilla versus stopping in Baranoa. While some passengers may disembark in Baranoa, you’ll want a direct bus back to Barranquilla, meaning you don’t have to hop off and hop on another or do any type of transfer.

The buses run frequently, but checking the schedule with the locals is a good idea to avoid long waits. Not surprisingly, most Usiacuríaños are warm and friendly and happy you’re visiting with them!

The total travel time to Barranquilla is around an hour and a half, giving you plenty of opportunity to reflect on your day in enchanting Usiacurí.

Wrap Up

So, now you know about Usiacurí! Honestly, I was surprised at how this unique town captured my attention and, like most of Colombia, a piece of my heart, in just one day’s visit!

Maybe it was the bright colors of the rooftops visible from elevated streets, or the way the friendly townspeople inquired curiously where we were from and why we were visiting their pueblo magico.

Usiacurí is a perfect example of why Colombia is such a captivating destination. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, this incredible country and its hundreds of pueblos offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Whether exploring colonial churches, hiking through lush forests near mineral springs, or savoring sweet bread from a tienda, a day in Usiacurí will enchant and inspire. So next time you’re in Colombia, add Usiacurí to your itinerary— and be prepared to fall in love with its magic. ❤️