About Arauca

Arauca, Colombia's eastern frontier department, offers an authentic and adventurous escape into the vast Llanos Orientales plains. This region is defined by its cowboy culture, where llaneros (plainsmen) on horseback still dominate the landscape, and traditional joropo music fills the air during lively festivals. The star attraction is the mighty Arauca River, perfect for fishing, river safaris to spot pink dolphins, and birdwatching in its gallery forests. The capital city, also named Arauca, provides a gateway to this unique ecosystem and a taste of local life with its Malecón riverwalk. For nature enthusiasts, the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy National Natural Park extends into Arauca, offering breathtaking Andean paramo landscapes and challenging treks. The department's remote location and rich oil reserves have created a distinctive blend of indigenous, Venezuelan, and Colombian cultures, making it a destination for travelers seeking raw, unfiltered experiences far from the typical tourist trail. Key destinations include the town of Tame, known as the 'Cradle of the Revolution,' and the extensive cattle ranches (hatos) that offer ecotourism and wildlife viewing opportunities.

https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/12/6e/73/ae.jpg

Travel Tips for Arauca

Getting Around

Transportation is challenging. Within the capital, taxis and motorcycle taxis (mototaxis) are common. For intercity travel, buses and shared taxis (colectivos) are the main options, but routes are limited and conditions can be basic. Car rental is available but not widely recommended for foreigners due to security concerns and poor road conditions outside the city. The most reliable way to explore remote natural areas is through organized tours with experienced local operators who provide private 4x4 transport. The German Olano Airport in Arauca city connects to Bogotá.

Best Time To Visit

December to March (dry season). This period offers the best weather for exploring the plains, with less rain, more accessible roads, and optimal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The Arauca Fair and Festival (Feria de Arauca), typically in early December, is a major cultural event featuring rodeos, music, and dancing.

Local Customs

The llanero culture is central. Respect for horsemanship and traditional music is important. Dress is generally casual but modest. Greetings are warm and often involve a handshake. Tipping is not universally expected but is appreciated in restaurants (10% is customary if service charge is not included) and for tour guides. Social life often revolves around family and community events. Be respectful when discussing politics or the region's complex history.

Safety Information

Exercise a high degree of caution. The department has a history of armed conflict and criminal activity, including kidnapping and extortion. Security conditions can change rapidly. Avoid travel to rural areas and near the Venezuelan border unless with a reputable local guide or tour operator. Stay within the capital city of Arauca where security is more concentrated. Do not travel at night on rural roads. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and follow the advice of local authorities. Check your government's travel advisories before planning a trip.

Health Information

Medical facilities in Arauca are limited, especially outside the capital. The Hospital Departamental de Arauca in the capital city is the main public hospital. Travelers should have comprehensive travel health insurance that includes medical evacuation. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever (mandatory), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines are strongly recommended. Malaria and dengue fever are present; use insect repellent, wear long sleeves/pants, and consider antimalarial prophylaxis. Drink only bottled or purified water. Due to remote areas, carry a well-stocked personal medical kit.

Languages Spoken

Spanish

Quick Facts

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)
$

Timezone

America/Bogota -05:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+57

Electricity

Type A, B; 110V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

320,000

Area

23818 km²

Government

Department of Colombia with a Governor and Departmental Assembly

ISO Code

ARA

About Arauca

Things to do in Arauca

Tour the Paracas National Reserve in a MiniBuggy

Sunset Trekking Paracas National Reserve with Transportation

Paracas : Tour to the Ballestas Islands by Modern Boat

Golden Shadows Trek (No 1 Activity)

Ballestas Islands Excursion from Paracas

Private Tour Ballestas Islands and White Island from Paracas

Paracas full day from Lima (private service)

Paracas : Quad Tour of the National Reserve

Adventure in the Paracas National Reserve in private

Pisco Route, Buggies and Sandboarding in the Ica Desert from Paracas

Paracas National Reserve Private Tour

3-Days Machu Picchu from PISCO CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL

Islas Ballestas - Paracas Boat Tour at the Galapagos of Peru

Paracas: Catamaran - Sail & Discover Paracas Bay

Paracas: Paragliding Adventure Soaring Over Reserve - Parapente