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In all honesty, based on our experiences in other less touristy towns in the Caldas Department, we were expecting a dirty city with unpleasant people when we visited La Dorada. We were proven wrong as we walked through the streets.
Parque Jorge Eliecer Gaitán
We started outside our hotel at Parque Jorge Eliecer Gaitán. In the center is a statue of Jorge Eliecer Gaitán, a politician assassinated in 1948. The rest of the park has tall trees and some flowers as well as benches to sit and enjoy the scenery. It was a little run down but, again, much cleaner than expected.
Parque Simón Bolívar
Next, we walked a couple blocks north to Parque Simón Bolívar, which is the main plaza in La Dorada. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot one of the huge iguanas that live in the park. If not, there’s an iguana sculpture you can pose with.
The center of the park has a bust of Simón Bolívar. There were several vendors surrounding it, selling cold drinks, ice cream, and handmade souvenirs.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Also on the plaza is Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Nuestra Señora del Carmen), which serves as the city’s cathedral. We weren’t able to walk inside but the doors were open allowing us to get a peek.
Parque Santander
Finally, we walked to Parque Santander, which features a fish monument. There are several vendors selling guarapo (sugar cane juice) and other snacks. Fast food booths are located across the street.
