Though once one of Colombia's most important inland cities,the steamy river port of Hondawas overtaken by relentless modernity and now showcases the golden era of the río Magdalena.
Honda was once the gateway to the eastern Colombian Andes, where ships loaded with European goods ended their long upstream journey from the Caribe.Today,a walk through its historic center reveals magnificent colonial buildings lit by the sun on both sides of its stone streets.These old homes overlook the mighty river,evoking a classic period novel.Don’t miss the narrow calle de las Trampas,one ofHonda’s best-preserved roads,its cobblestones witness to colonial-era events.
Honda is not just a portal to another era:it’s also the gateway to countless natural attractions in the stunning valley surrounding it.
Attractions
Museo del río Magdalena
Located in a beautiful colonial-era warehouse,this small,well-managed museum tells the story of the río Magdalena’s role in the region’s and country’s development.Hiring a local expert guide will give you the full history behind the varied exhibits.
Museum
Puente Navarro
The Puente Navarro is the most iconic of Honda’s bridges.This 170-meter-long structure connects Honda with the Cundinamarca department across the río Magdalena.Built in the late 19th century,it’s considered Latin America’s oldest cantilever steel bridge and is still in use.Walking its rickety planks and overcoming vertigo rewards you with fantastic views of the fast-flowing río Magdalena below.
Architecture
Ciudad Perdida de Falan
These spectacular stone ruins,for some reason,are little known outside the region.Hidden in alush jungle canyon less than an hour from Honda,they were once a thriving gold mine serving the Spanish king but have since been reclaimed by nature.
Visitors can navigate narrow,dark tunnels in the mountainsides,passing moss-covered warehouses,plants,and other ruins.Keep an eye out for discarded steel gears and mining equipment wheels visible in the river below.Falan is not just an archaeological site;it’s a top-tier natural destination with fantastic birds and refreshing pools to cool off after the tour.
Historic Site
Experiences
Hiking Cerro Cacao in Bellota
For a spectacular view of the city,the río Magdalena,and surrounding hills,take the challenging trail to this lookout atop the mountain just south of the city.The climb is demanding,but the views are worth it.
Lookout,Hiking
Boat Tours in Honda
One of the best ways to admireHonda’s beautyis from the waters of the río Magdalena on a boat tour.The turbulent rapidsthat make Honda the highest navigable point on the Magdalena have turned local boatmen into expert steersmen,balancing their vessels in swift waters to fish with fine nets.These skilled boatmen offer tours passing under iconic bridges and visiting forest-lined riverbank beaches.
Outdoor Life
Practical Details
Accommodation
The most picturesque accommodations are in the heart ofHonda’s historic center,where many colonial buildings have been converted into luxurious boutique hotels.
Arrival
Though no longer connected by water to other parts of the country,Honda still enjoys a privileged location in the valleyseparating the eastern and western Colombian Andes,alongside the Magdalena valley road linking the city to the Colombian massif and the Gran Caribe colombiano.
The nearest major airport is El Dorado in Bogotá,less than four hours by road.
Helpful Tip
Despite its short distance from Bogotá,Honda’s climate is surprisingly different;prepare for intense heat and humidity.
