Do I need a guide to visit the nature reserves (hatos)?

Yes, access to most private nature reserves is strictly controlled and only possible through pre-arranged tours with authorized operators. This is for conservation, safety, and to support the local economy.

Is Casanare safe for solo travelers?

Solo travel is possible in Yopal with standard precautions, but exploring the rural plains is strongly recommended only with organized tours or a trusted local guide due to remoteness and safety considerations.

What is the main culinary specialty?

Mamona or ternera a la llanera is the iconic dish: beef slow-cooked over an open fire. Other staples include sancocho de gallina (chicken stew), arepas, and freshwater fish like cachama.

Can I use credit cards widely?

Major hotels and some restaurants in Yopal accept cards, but cash (Colombian Pesos) is king, especially in small towns, rural areas, and for tours. ATMs are available in Yopal.

Light, breathable clothing for intense heat, a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy boots for walking in grasslands, binoculars for wildlife, a refillable water bottle, and a waterproof jacket if visiting in the wet season.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 90-day tourist stamps on arrival. Check with Colombian consulate.

What language is spoken?

Spanish. English is not widely spoken; learn basic phrases.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Generally yes, but join tours for remote areas. Solo female travelers should take standard precautions.

What currency is used?

Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards accepted in Yopal; cash needed in rural areas.

Can I drink tap water?

No. Drink bottled or filtered water.

What is the food like?

Hearty llanero cuisine: grilled meats, arepas, yuca, and mamona (roasted veal). Try the local cheese and honey.

Yes in Yopal and larger towns. Limited in rural areas—bring enough cash.

Is there cell service?

Good in Yopal, spotty in rural plains. Claro and Movistar have coverage.

Can I visit hatos (ranches)?

Yes, many offer eco-tourism stays. Book in advance through tour operators.

What wildlife can I see?

Capybaras, caimans, howler monkeys, anacondas, and over 300 bird species including hoatzins and ibises.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, but ask permission for people and military areas.

Casanare

DepartmentColombia, South America

Casanare is a STATE in Colombia, South America.

Casanare, Colombia's eastern plains department, offers an authentic immersion into the legendary 'Llanos' culture. This vast, sun-drenched savanna is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The star attraction is the incredible wildlife viewing, particularly in the private nature reserves (hatos) along the Río Meta, where you can witness massive herds of capybaras, elusive anacondas, caimans, and over 500 bird species, including the majestic jabiru stork. The region's soul is its cowboy ('llanero') heritage, best experienced at a working cattle ranch, listening to the haunting melodies of joropo music played on the harp and cuatro. Key destinations include Yopal, the lively capital; the tranquil river town of Trinidad; and the remote, biodiverse wetlands around Hato La Aurora. Casanare provides a raw, unfiltered connection to Colombia's wild heart, far from the typical tourist trail, where the horizons stretch endlessly and the rhythms of nature and tradition dictate the pace of life.

Best time to visit Casanare

December to March (Dry Season). This is the ideal time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around shrinking water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is sunny and hot, and roads are more passable. The wet season (April to November) sees lush landscapes but many areas become flooded and inaccessible, and mosquito activity is high. Major festivals like the Coleo and Joropo festivals often occur during the dry season.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 29°
Feels like: 36°
Humidity: 77%
Wind: 1 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 24-30°C, rainy

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Rainy season returns

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

EYP

El Alcaraván Airport (Yopal)

Domestic

5 km away

BOG

El Dorado International Airport (Bogotá)

International

250 km away

Getting around

"The main hub is Yopal's El Alcaraván Airport (EYP), with flights from Bogotá. Within cities, use taxis (agree on fares beforehand) or local buses. For exploring the vast plains, a 4x4 vehicle with a local driver is essential, especially in the wet season. Car rentals are available in Yopal but not recommended for inexperienced drivers due to rough, unpaved roads and remote conditions. Inter-city travel is by bus or shared jeeps (colectivos). Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber are not widely available; use local taxi services. Boat travel is common along the rivers."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in Yopal and some lodges

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Yopal airport from $5

Calling code

+57

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Petty crime exists but violent crime is low for travelers.

Night safety

6/10

Petty crime exists but violent crime is low for travelers.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Exercise increased caution in rural areas due to the presence of illegal armed groups and narcotics trafficking. Stick to well-known tourist routes and travel with reputable guides, especially when visiting nature reserves. Avoid travel at night on rural roads. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in Yopal; keep valuables secure. Always check current travel advisories before visiting remote areas. When on wildlife tours, strictly follow guide instructions for safety around wild animals. Road conditions can be poor, especially in the wet season."

Police

123

Ambulance

125

Fire

119

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are concentrated in Yopal; for serious conditions, evacuation to Bogotá may be necessary. Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory and proof is often required for entry to rural areas and nature reserves. Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended for visits to rural zones, especially near rivers. Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are present; use strong insect repellent, long sleeves, and mosquito nets. Drink only bottled or purified water. The sun is extremely intense; use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. Private health insurance with evacuation coverage is essential."

Culture

Local customs

"The llanero culture is proud and hospitable. Greet people with a handshake. Dress is generally casual but modest. When visiting rural communities or ranches, respect is paramount. Tipping is not universally expected but is appreciated for good service in restaurants (10%) and for guides/drivers. The pace of life is slower; be patient. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Joropo music and dance are central to social life; participating or showing interest is welcomed. The cattle-ranching culture is deeply respected."

Spanish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP) · $

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Casanare is very affordable compared to touristy regions.

Timezone

America/Bogota -05:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

420,000

Area

44,640 km²

Government

Department of Colombia with a Governor and Departmental Assembly

ISO code

Type

Department

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Касанар, カサナレ県, CO-CAS, CAS, Casanare, Kasanareo, EYP, El Yopal, Jopal', Jopalis, Juopales, Juopalės, Marroquin, Marroquín, Yopal, i'upala, yopal, yopala, yoparu, yoፓል, yue pa er, ywbal, ywpal, Йопаль, يوبال, یوپال, योपाल, ইউপাল, ਯੋਪਾਲ, ዮፓል, ヨパール, 約帕爾, 요팔

Capital CityMajor HubNatureWildlifeAdventureCulturalOff-the-Beaten-PathHorseback RidingBirdwatching