Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Bucaramanga with a Mother-Son Duo
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover with Fabio, a gastronomist, the variety of fruit and vegetables harvested in Santander at Bucaramanga’s central market. Fabio will take you to one of the oldest cafes in the city for a typical coffee and pandebono, a sweet and savory cheese bread. Return to his apartment to prepare regional cuisine such as empanadas and arepas or a fish stew with Fabio and his mother Carmen. You will learn to make the dough and prepare a variety of fillings such as beef and rice, chicken and mushroom or santandereanas (carne oreada with hogao) accompanied by sauces like a Colombian pepper sauce, herb mayonnaise or caramel pineapple.
Enjoy your home-cooked meal with fun locals that will start with a taste of fresh fruit. Soups are a staple of the Colombian diet so your meal will continue with a typical soup or stew filled with seasonal vegetables and meat followed by empanadas or fish in criolla sauce. End your meal with dessert and limonada made from panela, sour fruit juice spices and ice.
Available options
Market + cooking + dinner
What's included
Alcoholic Beverages
Private market tour and cooking class with your host Fabio
What you'll see
Meet your host at their apartment in Bucaramanga for your private market tour and cooking class.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Meeting point
Meet your host at their apartment in Bucaramanga. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation.
Important notes
meeting Location: Meet at Américo's (Fabio) apartment in Bucaramanga. Here is a map to the location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nMFq36JtqHoY4ana6 Please contact Fabio if you need help with directions.
Address: carrera 22 # 35-61 Bucaramanga Colombia
Phone: +57 3042309144
Email: fabiorugeles@outlook.com
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!
About Bucaramanga
Bucaramanga, known as the 'City of Parks,' is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes Mountains. It offers a pleasant climate, lush greenery, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a unique and appealing destination in Colombia. The city is renowned for its numerous parks, friendly locals, and a mix of modern and traditional architecture.
Top Attractions
Parque García Rovira
A large park with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Musa - Museo de Arte Moderno de Bucaramanga
A contemporary art museum featuring works by local and international artists. The museum also hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Museum
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Catedral Metropolitana de Bucaramanga
A stunning cathedral with a mix of Gothic and Neoclassical architecture. It's a significant religious and historical landmark in the city.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Parque de la Vida
A beautiful park with a lake, walking paths, and a variety of plants and animals. It's a great place for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, fried plantain, chicharrón (pork rind), avocado, arepa (corn cake), and a choice of meat (usually beef or chicken).
Lunch
Vegetarian and vegan options are available with modifications.
Arepas
Corn cakes that can be filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or beans. They are a staple of Colombian cuisine.
Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
Lechona
A traditional dish made with a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. It's a festive dish often served at special occasions.
Lunch/Dinner
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Rafting
Paragliding
Hiking
Picnicking in parks
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Enjoying coffee at local cafes
Visiting museums and art galleries
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the dry season, offering the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and events.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bucaramanga is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate compared to other Colombian cities. However, it's important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas.
- • Use official taxis or app-based services.
Getting there
By air
- Palonegro International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte de Bucaramanga
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Bucaramanga. It's affordable and covers most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Tappsi, Cubero
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cabecera
La Florida
Provenza
Day trips
San Gil
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
A small town known for its adventure sports and natural beauty. It's a great place for activities like rafting, paragliding, and hiking.
Barichara
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to explore Colombian history and culture.
Chicamocha National Park
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
A beautiful national park with stunning views, hiking trails, and adventure activities. It's a great place to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Feria de las Flores • August
Festival de la Cerveza • October
Festival de la Música Colombiana • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
- Explore the city's parks and green spaces for a relaxing and scenic experience.
- Visit local markets and street food stalls for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
- Take a day trip to nearby destinations like San Gil, Barichara, and Chicamocha National Park for adventure and natural beauty.
- Attend local festivals and events for a unique and immersive cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
