Explore a place. Share an interest.
Meet people in Tello
Discover travelers heading to Tello and people who share your interests—before you arrive or while you’re there.
Create your free profile See how it works ↓ Explore profiles, shared interests and travel plans.How ChatVoyager works in Tello
- Create profile
Introduce yourself
Add your interests and languages so others can get to know you.
- Choose a city or plan a trip
Explore Tello
Browse profiles with Exploration Mode, or discover travelers’ plans before you arrive.
- Connect
Start a conversation
Send a Wave to show interest, or introduce yourself with a direct message and suggest something to do together.
Find your shared interests in Tello
Create your free profileBefore you join
Can I connect before arriving in Tello?
Yes. After creating your account and confirming your email, use Exploration Mode to browse profiles in the city, or explore shared travel plans.
Do I need to create a trip?
No. Exploration Mode lets you change your profile-search location without publishing a trip. Create a trip when you want to share your own plans.
How do I start a conversation?
Send a Wave to show interest, or introduce yourself with a direct message. A shared interest or travel plan is a good starting point.
About Tello
Tello, located in the Huila department of Colombia, serves as a gateway to the arid, otherworldly landscapes of the Tatacoa Desert. This town offers a blend of traditional Andean culture and the unique geological wonders of the nearby desert, characterized by its ochre-colored canyons and star-filled night skies. Visitors are drawn to the region for its stark natural beauty, local agricultural traditions, and the warm, slow-paced lifestyle of the Huila people. Whether you are exploring the labyrinthine rock formations or enjoying the quiet charm of the town square, Tello provides an authentic Colombian experience away from the bustling tourist hubs. The culture here is deeply rooted in the land, with local gastronomy and music reflecting the rich heritage of the Magdalena River valley, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil yet adventurous escape in South America.
Places to visit in Tello
Tatacoa Desert
Why visit: It is the primary natural attraction of the region, offering unique hiking and photography opportunities.
About this place
The Tatacoa Desert is a tropical dry forest that features dramatic, eroded landscapes known as Los Hoyos and Cuzco. Visitors walk through deep, labyrinthine canyons carved by water and wind, revealing striking red and grey soil formations. It is a place of profound silence and visual intensity, particularly during sunrise or sunset. The area is also one of the best locations in Colombia for stargazing due to the minimal light pollution, allowing for clear views of the constellations that have fascinated travelers and locals for generations.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the desert heat can be intense during the day.
Magdalena River
Why visit: It offers a peaceful setting for nature walks and reflection on the region's vital geography.
About this place
The Magdalena River is the lifeblood of Colombia and flows near Tello, shaping the geography and history of the region. Visitors can explore the riverbanks to observe the lush riparian vegetation and local birdlife. It serves as a serene backdrop for those looking to connect with the natural environment of the Huila department. The river has been a vital transport and cultural artery for centuries, and its presence provides a cooling contrast to the arid landscapes found just a short distance away in the desert.
Look for local boat operators if you wish to view the river from the water.
Museums, galleries & culture
Observatorio Astronómico de la Tatacoa
Why visit: It offers a unique, structured way to experience the desert's famous night skies.
About this place
Located on the edge of the desert, this observatory provides a specialized space for learning about the night sky. It hosts sessions where visitors can use telescopes to view planets, nebulae, and stars, guided by experts who explain the celestial mechanics visible from this equatorial latitude. The setting is intimate and educational, fostering a sense of wonder among those who gather to observe the cosmos. It is a hub for both science enthusiasts and curious travelers looking to deepen their understanding of the universe.
Check the weather forecast before visiting, as clear skies are essential for optimal viewing.
Explore the city
Desert Canyon Trail
A walk through the Cuzco sector of the Tatacoa Desert allows visitors to navigate the narrow, winding paths between red clay formations. The trail is relatively flat but requires careful footing as you move through the labyrinth. It is a meditative experience, as the scale of the erosion makes one feel small against the ancient geological history. Walking here during the early morning hours provides the best light for photography and avoids the peak heat. You will likely encounter other travelers exploring the same paths, creating natural opportunities for brief exchanges about the landscape.
Meeting people and exploring Tello: questions and answers
How can I find other people to connect with in Tello using ChatVoyager?
You can use Exploration Mode to set Tello as your search location without needing to create a formal trip. Once your email is confirmed, you can use the profile search feature with filters for interests and languages to find others nearby, then send a Wave or a direct message to introduce yourself.
Can I connect with people before I arrive in Tello?
Yes, you can use ChatVoyager to search for profiles in Tello before your trip begins. By setting the city as your location in Exploration Mode, you can browse profiles and reach out to others who share your interests, allowing you to establish contact and potentially coordinate meeting up once you arrive.