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20 Best Places to Visit in Colombia, According to Locals and Experts

These are 20 of the best places to visit in Colombia, from colorful villages to stunning beaches.

places to go visit in colombia

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A hypnotizing mix of charming coastal cities, world-class cuisine, and lush landscapes hiding immense biodiversity have made the bicoastal country of Colombia one of the most sought-after destinations in the Americas. Spending a long weekend in Cartagena or a few days in Bogotá isn't enough; even after spending months living in Medellín, I felt I barely scratched the surface of all Colombia offers.

With the help of Medellín-based Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Boris Seckovic and locals who work at some of the country's most incredible accommodations, like Bio Habitat Hotel and Casa Pestagua, we've assembled a list of the best places to visit in Colombia. Read on to find the country's most scenic trekking trails, untouched white-sand beaches, and where to get the best cup of Colombian coffee.

Meet the Expert

Boris Seckovic is a T+L A-list advisor and Colombia specialist living in Medellín.

Carolina Bernal is the general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua, luxury hotels located in Cartagena. 

Related: 25 Best Places to Visit in South America

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Few destinations have done a better job rebranding themselves than Medellín, a vibrant metropolis whose rapid transformation has made it one of South America's most sought-after cities for travelers and digital nomads alike. Laureles was recently named the coolest neighborhood in the world , though travelers might be more familiar with El Poblado as home to some of Colombia's trendiest cafes, restaurants, and bars. Medellín's impressive public transportation network includes several cable cars, making the journey to green spaces like Arvi Park one of the best ways to enjoy breathtaking views of a city that crawls dramatically up the mountainsides of the Aburrá Valley.

Valle de Cocora

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Don't be surprised if the Valle de Cocora (Cocora Valley) in the heart of Colombia's coffee country looks familiar. This magical area served as the real-life inspiration for Disney's “Encanto,” so you'll be sure to hear the soundtrack's most famous song as you pass through the nearby village of Salento. Despite its new claim to fame, the Valle de Cocora has long been famous for its impressive forest of wax palm trees, which tower high above the valley, growing up to 200 feet tall.

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One of the best cities in South America , Colombia's bustling capital city of Bogotá is much more than just a stopover after an international flight. As soon as you arrive, take a funicular or cable car up the Cerro de Monserrate to take in the city views and get your bearings before exploring the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria. Visiting the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) is a must, as is experiencing the city's increasingly impressive culinary scene at spots like the award-winning El Chato, one of the world's best restaurants .

Stay at the luxurious W Bogotá , named by T+L readers among the best hotels in South America last year, or stop by for their beloved night brunch. The hotel's bold design is a modern interpretation of the legend of El Dorado.

Amazon Rainforest

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"Colombia's slice of the Amazon rainforest isn't as well-known as the Amazon in neighboring countries, but it's almost better that way," says Seckovic, who heads Amakuna , the leading specialist for luxury travel in Colombia. "You'll see far fewer people here and have a much better chance of encountering wildlife because of it." Explore the jungle by starting in the regional capital of Leticia, hidden among forest canopy and accessible only by airplane. From there, head to one of the region's ecolodges for biologist-led excursions into the wilderness, where colorful butterflies dart above waters where pink Amazonian river dolphins play.

Santa Cruz de Mompox

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Set along the Magdalena River that winds towards Colombia's Caribbean Coast, the colonial village of Santa Cruz de Mompox "feels like what Cartagena used to be," says Seckovic. An important stop along the river used by the Spanish to extract gold, the UNESCO-protected town still retains all its historic beauty, and an artisan filigree jewelry industry points to its golden past. First-of-their-kind cruises along the Magdalena River with AmaWaterways will kick off in 2024, offering a new way to experience the region on routes that twist through the countryside between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

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Cartagena is officially Colombia's worst-kept secret. Whether by cruise ship or via newly added flight routes from major U.S. cities, travelers now flock to Colombia's buzziest and most colorful hotspot year-round. A walk along age-old Spanish colonial walls at sunset with glimpses of the glimmering high-rises of Bocagrande in the distance is all you'll need to see why. 

Carolina Bernal, general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua , recommends staying in a restored mansion for a look into the city’s past. Longtime Cartagena favorite Casa San Agustin is a gem; its sister property, Casa Pestagua, is a meticulously restored and luxurious 17th-century mansion colloquially known as the most beautiful home in Cartagena.

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Until recently, Isla Barú was mostly a destination for day trippers looking for the best beaches near Cartagena. The recent addition of the Sofitel Barú Casablanca Beach Resort changes all that, making this "island" just 45 minutes from the city an increasingly popular destination all its own. Travelers can also enjoy a beach day or book an overnight at one of the six new cabana-style bungalows at Acasi Private Beach, a luxe extension of Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua on the sand.

Eje Cafetero

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Colombia's idyllic coffee-growing region is known as the Eje Cafetero , the "Coffee Axis." This verdant landscape is peppered with grand haciendas and tiny, shaded cafetales where families have long worked the land, and even passersby enjoy the aroma of the world's best coffee. Explore the countryside in a colorful, open-air Jeep Willy, visiting historic villages like Salento, Jardin, and Filandia along the way.

One of the region's coolest places to stay is Bio Habitat Hotel , where luxurious free-standing accommodations are enveloped in rainforest flora and fauna and offer views across the Andes. This eco-conscious, regenerative hotel perched amidst the forest canopy feels a world away, though it's just minutes from the city of Armenia and some of the country's finest artisan coffee farms.

Ciudad Perdida

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Tucked within the lush, tropical Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, Colombia's Ciudad Perdida ( or “Lost City”) is among the great ancient ruins in South America. There's no easy way to reach Ciudad Perdida; visiting this hidden settlement demands a four-day mountain trek with numerous river crossings. The payoff is well worth it: Just a few dozen intrepid travelers reach this expansive site with its terraced hillsides and circular plazas every day, meaning you'll get to enjoy it almost uninterrupted.

Only a handful of Santa Marta-based tour operators are certified to guide visitors to the site, still cared for by the descendants of the Tairona people who built the settlement centuries ago.

Guatapé and El Peñol

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It's impossible to miss El Peñol, a massive monolith towering many stories over the countryside of Antioquia as if dropped from the heavens by a giant. If the climb to the top doesn't take your breath away, the 360-degree views from the top certainly will. Just minutes down the road, the small town of Guatapé has its own flavor of fantasy, with a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns covering the facades of its historic buildings. These twin destinations are an easy day-trip distance from Medellín, but an overnight stay at some of the country's coolest glamping spots is even better.

Caño Cristales

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Known as Colombia's "river of five colors," Caño Cristales is home to unique aquatic plants that give it a liquid rainbow effect you must see to believe. When the colorful effect is at peak vibrancy between July and November, the river seems to run green, magenta, purple, maroon, and canary yellow simultaneously. The river is located in the relatively isolated Serranía de la Macarena National Park, though locals attest it's well worth the trip to see one of the world's strangest natural wonders.

Related: Visiting Caño Cristales, Colombia's Liquid Rainbow

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The village of Barichara is arguably Colombia's prettiest. Barichara is a bit further from the country's major cities than other historic gems like Villa de Leyva, so "it's stunningly beautiful, but still not too touristy," says Seckovic. The town made T+L's list of the best hidden gem destinations to visit last year and is conveniently located just a stone's throw from San Gil, the undisputed capital of adventure travel in Colombia.

Tayrona National Park

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In Tayrona National Park, Colombia's best beaches line untouched jungles with enough endemic flora and fauna to make any eco-conscious traveler swoon. Take a skippered sailing excursion to the park directly from Santa Marta, with stops at spots like Bahia Concha and Cabo San Juan for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. More adventurous travelers can trek through the park and camp in hammocks perched directly over white sands.

Rosario Islands

“The Rosario Islands, or Islas del Rosario, are known for coral reefs and year-round diving and snorkeling opportunities," says Bernal of this perennially popular destination located off the coast of Cartagena. Hop on a speedboat in town and escape to eco-friendly boutique hotels tucked away on sandy shores, offering some serious rest and relaxation far from the crowds. It's an affordable and laid-back alternative to the built-up Caribbean islands where you would spend your days fighting for beach chairs.

Barranquilla

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Among the cities on Colombia's Caribbean Coast, Barranquilla can't compete with buzzy, beautiful Cartagena. However, for one week a year, Colombia lives and breathes to the rhythms of the Carnival of Barranquilla. Folkloric dance, music, and rich, regional food shine among a packed schedule of events including the Battle of the Flowers, the Great Troupes Parade, and the Death of Joselito Carnival, each more vibrant than the last. It's such an essential spectacle that it made the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .

Related: T+L's Guide to Colombia's Caribbean Coast

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The small city of Popayán still flies under the radar of most travelers, but it's all the better for it. Known as Colombia's "White City" for its grand historic center's whitewashed facades, this laid-back town feels like a breath of fresh air for travelers with an itinerary packed with just the country's biggest highlights. It's a great first stop on a road trip north through cities like Cali and to the haciendas and villages that make the Eje Cafetero so memorable.

Tatacoa Desert

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The Tatacoa Desert is the second-largest arid environment in Colombia, after the dune-studded La Guajira at the northern tip of South America. However, Tatacoa isn't a desert at all, but a long-dry tropical forest where lush flowers bloomed a millennium ago. Its unexpected past makes fossil-hunting a perfect pastime on hikes through its dramatic red canyons. Tatacoa's remote location and ideal atmospheric conditions also make it one of South America's best destinations for stargazing .

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Known as the capital city of salsa, Cali is the best place to visit in Colombia if you want to settle into several days of lessons to truly master these sensual steps. Zaperoco Bar is one of Cali's most famous salsa clubs, while Siboney — its name pointing to the rhythm's original Cuban roots — has long been one of Cali's salsa institutions. Fill your dance breaks by exploring the city's historic center and with day trips through the Valle del Cauca for river tubing, ziplining, and waterfall hikes.

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Tucked away within Utría National Natural Park on a remote stretch of Colombia's Pacific Coast, the tiny beach town of Nuquí is known as one of the best places in the country for whale watching. Between July and October, humpback whales travel from Antarctica to these warmer waters to give birth to their babies in the region's protected lagoons. Whale watching is the undisputed highlight for most travelers visiting Nuquí, but adventurous travelers will love surfing near jungle-fringed shores and hiking to long-hidden rainforest waterfalls.

San Andrés and Providencia

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Search for the islands of San Andrés and Providencia on a map, and you'd be forgiven for thinking they were a part of Central America. These tiny, remote islands over 450 miles from the Colombian mainland sit within a stretch of sea so azure it's called the "Sea of Seven Colors," and they are home to some of Colombia's last truly untouched beaches. Livelier San Andrés and more unspoiled Providencia are little-visited, idyllic destinations worth considering for your next unplugged, unbothered Caribbean getaway.

PlanetWare.com

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colombia

Written by Mark Johanson , Michael Law , and Lana Law Updated May 4, 2023

Authors Michael and Lana Law have made multiple trips to Colombia to explore the different regions. Their most recent trip in late 2022 took them to Medellin and Bogotá.

Cast all of your outdated ideas aside, like drug wars and gangsters, and you'll find that Colombia is a nation brimming with confidence and rushing headfirst into a more peaceful and prosperous future.

In this land of contrasts, you'll encounter snowcapped Andean peaks , tropical Amazonian jungles , turquoise Caribbean coasts , and two sun-kissed deserts. You'll also find a host of spectacular tourist attractions at the places in between, from the magic of Cartagena and the buzz of Medellin to the quiet colonial villages of Salento and Mompox.

Above all else, the famous Colombian hospitality will undoubtedly find you coming back for more. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Colombia.

1. Cartagena

2. medellin, 3. eje cafetero, 5. tayrona national natural park, 7. the lost city (ciudad perdida), 8. providencia island, 10. la guajira peninsula, 11. hacienda nápoles, 12. caño cristales.

Cartagena

Cartagena is the crown jewel of Colombia's Caribbean coast and one of the best-preserved colonial destinations in the Americas. Take a stroll through the historic walled city , and you may feel as if you've stepped back in time to a different era.

Maybe it's the 13 kilometers of centuries-old walls, or the colorful colonial architecture, many of which are now beautifully restored restaurants and luxury hotels. Perhaps it's the bougainvillea-covered balconies along the labyrinthine streets or the soaring Catholic churches that tower above every plaza. Whatever it is, visitors can't help but fall for this Caribbean charmer.

Beyond the old city center lies laid-back Getsemani , and along the oceanfront is Bocagrande , a newer part of town, where upscale condos and hotels fight for prime seafront real estate. And less than an hour away by boat are islands and beaches , offering ideal places to visit for getaways and day trips.

Medellin

Bogotá might be the Colombian capital, but it's the smaller and more manageable city of Medellin that tends to capture the hearts of visitors. Medellin was dubbed the most dangerous city in the world in the early 1990s, but a quarter of a century later, it has earned a reputation for something entirely different: innovation.

The city boasts cable cars linking the settlements in its hills to a modern metro system in the valley below, a greenbelt of lush "eco parks," and striking libraries and community centers in some of the poorest neighborhoods.

A great day of sightseeing in Medellin might start in the Old Quarter at Botero Plaza , where you'll find a collection of 23 portly sculptures donated by the beloved Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Adjacent to the plaza is the must-visit Museum of Antioquia and the striking Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture . Then, head into the hills above town by riding the sleek escalator system through Comuna 13 to explore this neighborhood's colorful homes and elaborate street murals.

Finish your day in Medellin's trendiest commune, El Poblado , where you'll find buzzing eateries, boutique shops, and the vast majority of the city's hotels.

Eje Cafetero

The world's third-largest producer of coffee beans, Colombia is a fantastic country for tastings and tours. The vast majority of production takes place in the subtropical Andean hills west of Bogota between the small cities of Armenia, Pereira, and Manizales.

This region, known as the Eje Cafetero (or Coffee Axis), is home to a growing number of coffee plantations that have opened up their operations to the public in recent years for tours, tastings, and lavish farm stays.

These small (and often organic) plantations are the kind of places where the farmer-owner might take an hour out of his day to explain the process of how a humble "cherry" turns into a coffee bean that will one day be roasted and ground into a latte back home.

The small resort town of Salento is easily the most attractive place to base yourself, with numerous farm tours nearby and plenty of things to do. You'll also have easy access to attractions like Cocora Valley , home to the tallest palm trees in the world.

You can rent bicycles from Salento to explore the region under your own steam or ride on one of the old-fashioned Willy jeeps that serve as the town's de facto taxis.

Squirrel monkeys, Leticia

Picture the Amazon, and Colombia may not be the first country to come to mind — which is odd, because about a third of the nation is blanketed in its thick (and often impenetrable) jungles. The capital of the vast Amazon Basin is the small frontier town of Leticia, which sits along the banks of the mighty Amazon River, right where Colombia bumps up against Brazil and Peru .

Leticia makes a great base for eco-tourism , wildlife safaris, or hikes into the Amazon to learn about the Indigenous tribes that call this area home. The only way to arrive here is by plane from Bogotá, and you can continue onward by boat either downriver to Manaus, Brazil, or upriver to Iquitos, Peru.

Tayrona National Natural Park

You'll find some of the best beaches in Colombia within the protected Tayrona National Natural Park, which is known for its palm-shaded coves and crystal-clear coastal lagoons. Most beaches are set against the dramatic mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, whose rainforested hills make for a great side trip on any beach vacation.

Tayrona is also a fantastic place for snorkeling at protected areas near La Piscina beach and Cabo San Juan . Though remote, these secluded beaches aren't exactly a secret, so it's best to visit in low season (February to November) to avoid the massive crowds. Also, unless you're paying for the lavish Ecohabs Tayrona, be prepared to sleep in a tent (or hammock) at one of the many beachside campgrounds.

La Candelaria, Bogotá

Most visitors to Colombia will inevitably begin their trip in Bogota, the nation's largest city. It's a city that often divides opinion, with some complaining of its gridlocked streets and sometimes dreary weather, and others falling head over heels for its unique combination of colonial charm and urban sophistication. Either way, this city of eight million tends to grow on people who give it enough time.

Begin your sightseeing in Bogota in the historic center of La Candelaria , where you'll find the impressive buildings lining Plaza de Bolívar and can't-miss cultural attractions like the blindingly bright Museum of Gold . Then, head over to the wealthier neighborhoods of North Bogotá for some of the nation's best boutique shops and chef-driven restaurants.

For a bird's eye view of the city, be sure to take a trip up on the cable car to the Sanctuary of Monserrate . While up there settle in for a delightful and leisurely lunch or dinner at Casa San Isidro , serving fine Italian food, or enjoy Colombian food at the historical Santa Clara House dating from 1924.

The Lost City

Colombia's most popular hike is undoubtedly the four-day, 44-kilometer trek to Ciudad Perdida, a lost city hidden deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains that was only rediscovered in the 1970s. Built and occupied by Tayrona Indians between the 8th and 14th centuries, this ancient city is said to be one of the largest pre-Columbian settlements discovered in the Americas.

Much of the site remains buried beneath a thick jungle quilt because the modern Indigenous inhabitants of the area have banned excavations, but you'll find that the stone terraces and stairways are in outstanding shape.

Independent treks are not allowed, you will need to go with a sanctioned and approved tour operator who will provide a guide and all meals. You can book a tour from Santa Marta in advance.

If you decide to go, be prepared, this is no walk in the park. You'll face blazing heat, stifling humidity, rainstorms, copious quantities of mud, and insects. The trail, although easy to follow, is never flat, plan to always be going up or down. However, it's not all drudgery. Along the way, you'll be treated to spectacular jungle views and the opportunity to swim in rivers and ponds.

Hikes start early, usually around 5am to make use of the coolest part of the day. At the designated campgrounds, you'll either sleep in a hammock or on a mattress; mosquito nets are provided. You should count on being able to walk about 12 to 14 kilometers or seven to nine hours in a single session.

The trail is closed every September as part of an agreement with the local Indigenous community. The best time to go, with the least rain, is January and February.

Lovers Bridge, Providencia Island

This quirky Caribbean Island leaves many first-time visitors perplexed. For starters, it's far closer to Nicaragua than Colombia. Then there's the fact that its residents don't speak Spanish but rather an English Creole. Of course, none of that really matters when you find yourself sunning on the most stunning beaches under the Colombian flag.

Little more than a dollop of golden sands and perky palms, this isolated island is the jewel of the UNESCO-protected Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, with some of the world's greatest marine biodiversity just waiting to be explored.

You'll need to first stop on the more popular San Andrés Island and catch a short hopper plane or three-hour catamaran ride to reach Providencia. Once here, you'll find the largest collection of cottages and hotels in the small hamlet of Aguadulce on the stunning west coast of the island.

Mompox

Lovers of magic realism and the writings of Gabriel García Márquez will fall for the sleepy charms of Mompox. It features prominently in the Nobel laureate's book The General in His Labyrinth and is thought to be the inspiration for the fictional town of Macondo in his most famous novel, One Hundred Years of Solitude .

Mompox was once a prosperous cog in the trading route between the Caribbean coast and the Andes, famed as the spot where "El Libertador" Simón Bolívar recruited his army to gain independence for neighboring Venezuela . Now, this colonial relic along the muddy shores of the Magdalena River is truly a town that time forgot.

Though it lacks a wealth of things to do, many visitors find themselves spending far longer than planned strolling through the cobbled streets; soaking in the ambience of the colonial architecture; or taking boat trips through the Pijiño Swamp , a popular attraction for birders.

La Guajira Peninsula

It's the most northerly point in South America, so perhaps it's only fitting that La Guajira is unlike anywhere else on the continent. This remote and little-visited peninsula is a quiet oasis of sweeping sand dunes, bird-covered mangrove swamps, and vast stretches of empty land where the orange-brown La Guajira Desert meets the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

Indigenous beliefs are the law of the land here, as the peninsula is home to the proud Wayuu people, who were never subjugated under Spanish rule and maintain a vibrant culture to this day.

Keep in mind that tourism is still new in La Guajira, and the ride in from the regional capital of Riohacha requires both patience and a sense of adventure. The windsurfing and kiteboarding Mecca of Cabo de la Vela has the most tourism infrastructure and will likely be your best entry point into the region.

Entrance to Hacienda Nápoles

If there's one man who lingers large over Colombia's recent history, it's the billionaire drug trafficker Pablo Escobar. What few people realize is that you can actually visit the lavish estate built and owned by Escobar in Puerto Triunfo, about 110 miles east of Medellin.

The sprawling complex, known as Hacienda Nápoles, fell into disrepair in the decade after Escobar's death in 1993. But the local municipality took control of the property in the mid-2000s and turned it into-of all things-an ever-growing amusement park with an eclectic mix of themed zones, hotels, a water park, and safari-style zoo.

The amusements and hotels are new, and signs of Escobar are now limited. The ruins of his former mansion were bulldozed, and one of the Cessna planes he used to smuggle drugs to the US that used to be perched atop the entry gate is gone (as is the gate). The only thing remaining is a small museum that grapples with his legacy and some of his antique car collection rusting peacefully in the sun.

There is also a Jurassic zone filled with the life-size dinosaur replicas he purchased for his son and a wild hippo herd that, after years of heavy procreation, has grown from four to 40 and now represents the largest herd outside of Africa.

Caño Cristales

Caño Cristales was off limits for decades while in the grip of guerrilla fighters but is officially back in business and welcoming more tourists than ever before. Most visitors come to this remote river canyon in the Orinoquía region to hike between its waterfalls and bathe in its natural swimming holes.

While worth the trip in any season, the canyon is particularly prismatic between July and November, when an algae bloom turns the riverbed into a rainbow of colors. The isolated outpost of La Macarena is your base for trips to Caño Cristales, and it's only reachable by air from Bogotá or Villavicencio.

View over Cali

The inhabitants of Cali have a zest for life and fun that is unique in Colombia. And, how can you not, when your city is known around the world as the home of Salsa dance? Street festivals celebrating this sensual dance happen most evenings in the Juanchito area under the stars in the sultry air.

However, the city isn't all about dancing, it's also a foodie destination with a plethora of interesting restaurants helmed by innovative chefs making the most of the bounty from both the land and the Pacific Ocean, only a short distance away.

Dance, food, hot weather — what more do you need? Well, a bit of historical architecture dating from the 20th century coupled with friendly people round out the wonderful assortment of things to do in Cali.

Whale off Nuqui

The Caribbean coast of Colombia, with Cartagena as the shining star, soaks up most of the bandwidth when people think of coastal areas in Colombia. However, the small city of Nuqui and the Pacific Coast should not be overlooked by those with a taste for adventure and fun.

This incredibly biodiverse area is home to humid coastal jungles, waterfalls, and the full force of the Pacific Ocean. Empty beaches with humpback whales breeching just offshore, crystal clear rivers emptying into the sea, and some of the most incredible birdlife (especially hummingbirds) in the country await.

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A stunning scenic view over the landscape of Guatape, near Medellin, Colombia

From the blue waters of Tayrona National Park, the sweeping views of the Cocora Valley, and the ruins of San Agustín, Tierradentro, and the Lost City, to the white colonial buildings of Popayán and the hustle and bustle of its metropolises, Colombia is packed with things to see and do.

I’d wanted to visit Colombia for years. And after spending six weeks there, I must say, it lived up to the hype.

I had falsely assumed that six weeks would be enough to get a good sense of Colombia. After all, six weeks is a fair amount of time to spend anywhere.

But I was wrong. Given its size and the sheer number of activities, it was barely enough to scratch the surface.

Yet I did manage to see a lot.

Today I want to share my list of what I think are the best things to see and do in Colombia. These are the activities and places you should try to focus on when you visit:

1. Cartagena

A view over an expansive plaza surrounded by bright orange historic buildings with the harbor and modern skyscrapers in the background in Cartagena, Colombia

But despite the crowds (and there are a lot of crowds), I really enjoyed Cartagena . While there aren’t a lot of tourist activities (you can do most of them in a single day), what makes it a wonderful place to visit is just that: it’s somewhere you can slow down, relax, and gorge on the phenomenal gastronomy .

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Bustamante Hotel Boutique – A charming budget-friendly bed and breakfast with a swimming pool. It’s located in a colonial home just outside of the walled city.

For more, check out my Cartagena travel guide .

2. Tayrona National Park

The turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and palm trees of Tayrona National Parkin Colombia

It’s easy to visit as a day trip from Santa Marta , either independently or as part of a group tour . I highly suggest you start early at the big entrance at El Zaino and exit the park through Calabazo. This underused route takes a whole day, and once you pass the Cabo San Juan campground, you’ll get the last half of the trail to yourself. Try to avoid visiting during January, Colombian public holidays (especially Christmas and Easter), and weekends, when the crowds on the beaches and hiking paths are at their peak.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Jasayma – Located inside the park, here you can experience what the area is like once all the day-trippers go home. Choose from budget rooms or thatched bungalows and enjoy free breakfast in the morning.

3. The Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida)

Tiered stone platforms covered in grass in the jungle at the Lost City in Colombia

The Lost City was built around 800 CE and contains 169 terraces carved into the mountains, as well as a network of tiled roads and small plazas. It’s one of the most beautiful treks in the country, and the site is older than Machu Picchu!

To visit, you need to hire a tour operator (you can’t do it by yourself). It takes 4–6 days to do the trek from Santa Marta through the jungle up to these beautiful ruins and. If you’re pressed for time, you can also do it in three days; the only difference is the pace you go at. Expect to pay about $400-600 USD for tour with a local operator.

(Tip: You cross a lot of rivers, so be sure to bring an extra pair of shoes or flip flops for when you cross the rivers. You’ll easily ruin a pair of sneakers along the way.)

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Verde Hotel – Just a few blocks from the beach in Santa Marta’s Old Town, it offers outsized amenities for the price (there’s both an indoor swimming pool and rooftop hot tub).

bright streets in Salento, Colombia with doors painted yellow, pink, and blue

There’s not much to do in the city itself — it’s simply a base for coffee tours or hiking the Cocora Valley (see below) or the trails around town — so it’s easy to spend a few days here watching the world go by with a good book in hand.

WHERE TO STAY: Terrazas de Salento – Offers stunning views over the surrounding mountains, tranquil outdoor spaces with hammocks, an excellent breakfast, and super welcoming hosts.

5. Cocora Valley

the famous wax palms set against a green hill in Cocora Valley, Colombia

The route’s about five hours, and you can choose to either take the clockwise or counterclockwise route. The clockwise route, starting at the Wax Palm Valley, is easier, with fewer hills. Counterclockwise is easier at the end, though a little anticlimactic, as you end the hike walking down a boring road.

As it’s a popular hike, it’s easy to do independently, though there are also guided treks you can join as well.

(Tip: Start early to avoid the brutal midday heat, since there are a lot of exposed areas here.)

WHERE TO STAY: Salento (see above) is the closest town and jumping off point for hiking the Cocora Valley.

6. Bogotá

Brightly colored buildings lining a street in the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria in Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is Colombia’s vibrant capital. While it’s not the country’s most popular destination, it felt the most “Colombian” to me: there was just a certain edge and charm to it, and it seemed the least touristy with the fewest gringo expats. The historic downtown, La Candelaria, is filled with bright colonial buildings, detailed museums, delicious restaurants, tiny fun bars, historic churches, and centuries-old houses.

The north end of town is home to boutique hotels and entertainment areas like Zona Rosa and Zona G. The food scene in the city is incredible (its a great place to take a food tour so you learn about the big food scene in the city), with a lot of international and cutting-edge gastronomic restaurants. Throw in some amazing walking tours, day trips, and hikes and you’ve got a recipe for an astounding city.

For more, here’s a list of all my favorite things to do — and places to eat — in Bogota.

WHERE TO STAY: Magdalena Guest House – An affordable guest house in the heart of La Candelaria. Modern and cozy, there’s a little garden area and inner courtyard, a resident cat, comfy beds, and a guest kitchen.

people performing the salsa in a darkened room in Cali, Colombia

WHERE TO STAY: Magic Garden House – Located next to one of the city’s main parks, this hotel is walking distance to the historic center and all the city’s best dance schools.

For more, check out my budget travel guide to Cali .

8. Popayán

Flock of birds flying above the historic white buildings of Popayán, Colombia at sunrise

While you don’t need a lot of time (take the walking tour, climb the hill, see the churches, and you’re done), I do suggest staying longer to enjoy the slow pace of life. So much of Colombia is go-go-go, it’s nice to find a place that’s more “stay and relax a while.”

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel La Plazuela – Offers simple rooms (with great showers!) set in a restored 18th-century mansion in the heart of the city.

9. Tatacoa Desert

a cactus and bright red sand in Tatacoa Desert

Other than that, there’s not much here. Bike around the stunning rock formations, take some walks, stare at the sky. Stay a night or two. It’s not a popular area (it’s pretty remote), but it is a picturesque way to break up the long bus ride from Bogotá to the south or vice versa.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Colonial Villavieja – This hotel has both a swimming pool and air-conditioning, perfect for relaxing after a long day hiking at Tatacoa. It’s in Villavieja, the nearest town to Tatacoa.

10. San Agustín Archaeological Park

An ancient pre-Columbian statue in the rainforest next to an old tree with large roots.

WHERE TO STAY: Masaya San Agustin – Offers individual mountain huts and stunning views over the surrounding mountains. There’s a surprisingly fantastic restaurant on site too!

11. San Gil

A forest and trees in San Gil, Colombia

WHERE TO STAY: Located in a quiet neighborhood, Meraki Boutique Hostel – This is a sustainable guest house with a large and inviting common room, a fully equipped kitchen, and free filtered water to fill up your water bottles!

12. Providencia and San Andrés Islands

Colorful shack on a beach surrounded by palm trees in Providencia, Colombia

Providencia is actually the center of a huge UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that covers 10% of the Caribbean Sea, and it contains some of the world’s greatest marine biodiversity. Try to make it when tens of thousands of black crabs migrate to the sea. This happens twice a year for about a 1-2-week period between April and July, so it’s not always easy to nail the timing.

WHERE TO STAY: South West Bay Cabañas – Located just a 10-minute walk from a great beach, this hotel offers both air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, two amenities that aren’t always available on the island.

13. Medellín

The skyline of colorful Medellin, Colombia surrounded by greenery on a sunny day

It’s one of the most popular destinations for expats and tourists in the country. While it’s easy to get lost in Gringoland here, even if you’re staying there, try to get out of Poblado or Laureles and see the locals’ side of town. There’s more to the city than those two areas!

WHERE TO STAY: Nomada Hotel Origen – This is a chic mid-range hotel located in El Poblado, the best part of the city to stay for first-time visitors. A big, buffet-style breakfast is always included.

To start planning your trip, check out my travel guide to Medellín.

14. Guatapé

Beautiful and colorful streets with carved and decorated tiles on the sides of the buildings in Guatape, Colombia

Most people, though, come to climb the steep (and difficult) staircase to the top of the monolithic Rock of Guatapé (La Piedra) for some of the best views in the country. Guatapé is a long day trip from Medellín so I recommend trying to spend at least a night here so you aren’t as rushed and can enjoy the area little more.

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Encuentro Ecolodge – Located in a tranquil spot right along the lake, here you’ll find a variety of room options (from dorm beds to bungalows) as well as a fantastic breakfast.

15. Chingaza National Park

a lake in Chingaza National Park, Colombia

(Fun fact: Nearly 80% of Bogotá’s water supply comes from Chingaza and its 40 natural glacial lakes as well as man-made reservoirs.)

If you’re going to hike, joining a tour is a good idea. The guides are usually naturalists who can explain the unique environment of the area. One of the best routes is the challenging hike to the summit of Lagunas de Siecha, with a great view over the lakes.

WHERE TO STAY: Many people visit Chingaza as a day trip from Bogota (see accommodation recommendation above), though you can also wild camp in the park or stay in a dorm in the cabins in the Monterredondo section of the park.

16. Barranquilla

Women in bright pink and purple dresses, twirling around during Carnival in Barranquilla, Colombia

But there’s a lot to do here when it’s not Carnival season as well. Make sure you visit El Museo del Caribe, a museum offering an interesting insight into the history of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. There’s also a special exhibit dedicated to Gabriel García Márquez (the famous author who wrote Love in the Time of Cholera ).

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Casa Colonial – This is a welcoming colonial-era guest house in the center of town, with a lush garden to relax in after a long day exploring.

17. Tierradentro

Tierradentro is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America. It’s up there with San Agustín but gets less press since it’s located in the middle of nowhere and not on a main road. It contains over 100 hypogea (underground tombs) dating from the sixth to the tenth centuries, the only examples of their kind in the Americas. It takes a day or two to hike all the paths around the tombs. You can hire a guide if you want, but the trails are pretty easy to do on your own.

WHERE TO STAY: La Portada Hospedaje – This is one of the only accommodation options in the tiny town of San Andrés just outside the archaeological site. Fortunately, it’s a great family-run lodge that offers delicious home-cooked meals and plenty of hammocks to relax in.

18. Manizales (and Los Nevados)

the snow-capped mountains of Los Nevados

But the main reason people visit is to hike Los Nevados, a mountain range with majestic snow-capped peaks. You can do a day or multi-day hike, but whatever you do, don’t rush up to the top — acclimatize yourself to the altitude in Manizales for a few days first. The town is 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, but the mountains are at 6,000 meters (19,700 feet)! I wasn’t climatized and could really feel the altitude just walking around town. Don’t push yourself if you want to do the hike.

WHERE TO STAY: Ayenda 1140 Roma Plaza – A basic budget hotel that’s walkable to all the main sights in town. If you have a rental car, you can stay at one of the many lodges in the surrounding area. You can even stay on a coffee farm !

19. The Caribbean Coast

A deserted beach covered in palm trees in the town of Palomino on Colombia's tropical Caribbean Coast

WHERE TO STAY: Rincón del Mar Palomino – This hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the beach and has a free breakfast, a swimming pool, and lots of common areas for hanging out in.

20. Punta Gallinas

Punta Gallinas is the northernmost point in all of South America. Most people come here via a tour from Santa Marta or Cabo de la Vela, with the latter (through La Guajira Desert) being the better option if you just want to take your time and relax because it’s closer so there’s a lot less drive time. In fact, the only way to see the area is via a tour. Most are two or three nights depending on where you’re coming from. Any hostel can organize a trip for you.

WHERE TO STAY: Playa Arco Iris – This is one of the only accommodation options in town, offering basic amenities like water 24/7 and electricity thanks to their solar panel set-up (these amenities aren’t common in the region).

A covered shelter with benches in the lush forests of Minca, Colombia

There are a lot of waterfalls in the area as well. Two of the best are Pozo Azul and Marinka. Both have swimming holes at them too.

WHERE TO STAY: Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge – This budget-friendly lodge is located on a sustainable farm. There are dorms and private rooms, an infinity pool, and a restaurant serving fresh food from the farm.

Colombia has a million and one things to do. I lost track of all the places I kept wishing I had time to visit. You can spend months there (and a lot of people to do). However, I think this list is a great start. My recommendation is that if you’re short on time, fly (the bus rides are long) or just stick to one area of the country and go in depth around that region.

Trying to “see it all” in Colombia is just a recipe for burnout!

Book Your Trip to Colombia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Colombia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Colombia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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14 Best Places to Visit in Colombia

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Known for its world-famous Arabica coffee, Colombia is a place of passion, rich culture, and prosperous natural landscapes. The entertainment in Colombia is buzzing with life, where salsa dancing is celebrated as a part of its culture, and the nightlife is boisterous until the early morning.

As one of the biggest producers of coffee on the planet, Colombia is praised for its high-quality coffee. Its ideal regions, such as the Zona Cafetera or “Coffee Triangle”, are praised as the ideal environment for growing and harvesting coffee beans. It is home to famous cities such as Medellin, the City of Eternal Spring, and The Lost City, one of the oldest archaeological ruins discovered in the Americas.

Colombia features a biodiverse location with sections of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria Mountains, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Andes Mountains included within its territory.

Its landscapes are breathtakingly scenic, rich with life and impactful vistas. And these best places to visit in Colombia are the perfect way to experience the best of Colombia for an extraordinary trip to this wealthy and beautiful land!

Map of Places to Visit in Colombia

Map of Places to Visit in Colombia

14. Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva may be a small town less than a four-hour drive from Bogota, but its Plaza Mayor is one of the biggest town squares in South America. At one time people were executed on this immense square, which is now used as a gathering place for celebrations and festivals, such as the onion beauty pageant.

Its architecture reflects Spanish and Moorish influences; indeed, Villa de Leyva reminded us of Andalucía because of the white buildings with wooden trim and balconies. Museums honor famous people who fought for Colombian independence. The first distillery in the region is located here.

13. Guatape

Guatape

In central Columbia, in the Department of Antioquia, is the picturesque resort town of Guatape. Famous for its vibrant colored walls, referred to as “zocalos”, Guatape has another iconic feature – the El Peñón de Guatape or “The Rock of Guatape”.

In South America, The Rock of Guatape is the second largest monolithic rock, with Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio, Brazil, beating it for first place. As a result, this natural formation has become one of the top activities for visitors to Guatape.

Visitors to the town can reach the top of the rock’s summit by taking the path of stairs winding to the top. And from the summit of The Rock of Guatape are breathtaking panoramic views of the area, including the Cauca River and the Guatapé Reservoir.

Walk the cobblestoned pathway of Calle del Recuerdo, one of the most colorful streets in Guatape. Then, grab a seat to listen to live music in the bright square of the Plaza del Zocalo. This plaza features an amphitheater-like outdoor sitting area for people to sit and savor the music as performers show off their talents.

12. Rosario Islands

Rosario Islands

A collection of 27 islands, the Rosario Islands are about an hour’s trip by boat from Cartagena, a port city on the Caribbean coast. The Rosario Islands are located within the San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park to protect its abundant biodiversity and coral reefs.

The Rosario Islands are a must-visit tropical paradise with stunningly clear waters and sugar-white sand.

While on the islands, dine at one of the restaurants to savor freshly caught lobster, shellfish, and other locally-caught seafood. Order a cocktail and lay on one of the hammocks to relish the rejuvenating ambiance of the salty breeze and awe-inspiring scenery. For adventure, go kayaking through the mangroves, snorkeling at the coral reefs, or fishing for a big catch.

One of the most unique activities at the Rosario Islands is the bioluminescent plankton. There are evening tours that take visitors to the islands through the waters to witness the natural wonder of the bioluminescent plankton as they light up the waters.

11. Ciudad Perdida

Ciudad Perdida

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Ciudad Perdida, translated to “lost city,” is an archaeological site of an ancient city estimated to be founded in 800 CE. It was established around 650 years before Machu Picchu.

After the Spanish arrived in the area, the city was abandoned in the 16th century. The jungle swallowed it, keeping it hidden until 1972 when treasure looters rediscovered the city. It is considered one of the most significant discoveries in modern-day times.

In the present day, Ciudad Perdida is inaccessible by road. Instead, people travel worldwide to hike to the lost city on educational guided tours. The hike takes about four days, traveling up steep hills, narrow stone steps, and across the Buritaca River. The hike is completely rewarding to reach Ciudad Perdida, where trekkers can picture how indigenous communities once thrived in the area in ancient times.

10. Popayan

Popayan

One of Colombia’s most impressive colonial cities, Popayan, is situated in the Pubenza Valley in southwestern Colombia. Famous for its Holy Week celebrations, Popayan is a spiritual city full of vibrancy and history.

Termed La Ciudad Blanca, “the White City”, Popayan for the eye-catching white facades of its many historic colonial buildings. In 1537, the city was founded by Sebastian de Belalcazar, a Spanish conquistador and explorer. As one of the oldest cities in South America, a visit to Popayan is a trip back in time thanks to the city’s dedication to preserving the historic city.

The Puente del Humilladero is one such gem. The bridge was built in 1873 and extends over the Molino River. Underneath the bridge is a park that attracts locals and tourists alike to find some peace and refreshment in the beautiful outdoors of Popayan.

The Iglesia de Ermita is the city’s oldest church, built in 1546, while the Iglesia de San Francisco lays claim to being the most beautiful. Another is the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of The Assumption, a majestic cathedral paired with the equally eye-catching Torre del Reloj, the clock tower.

Leticia

Capital of the Department of Amazonas, Leticia is the tourist hotspot for access to the Colombian Amazon. It rests on the border of Brazil , Colombia, and Peru .

The bustling city of Leticia welcomes people from across the globe looking to experience its rich culture and experiences in the great outdoors of the prosperous Amazon rainforest.

The nearby Mundo Amazonico is a relatively small nature reserve with a diverse array of flora species endemic to the Amazon. The reserve also hosts a tea house, an aquarium for an up-close look at Amazonia fish, and accessible jungle trails to see local wildlife.

Less than an hour’s trip by boat from Leticia is Monkey Island, called Isla de los Micos. The river island is home to a natural reserve with species such as the squirrel monkey that have made the island home. A shorter boat trip from Leticia, less than twenty minutes away, is the Victoria Regia Natural Reserve which features the giant floating lilies known as the Victoria Amazonica.

8. San Andres & Providencia

San Andres

San Andrés and Providencia Archipelago are two island groups that are located closer to Nicaragua than Colombia in the Caribbean. San Andres is the largest island, and also the capital. Providence Island was initially settled by English Puritans who used slave labor on their plantations and took up privateering.

White sand beaches and palm trees are San Andres’ best features. The Caribbean is colored seven shades of blue and is rich marine life, making it a great place to snorkel and dive. Accommodations aren’t as luxurious as other Caribbean islands, and visitors travel around the island on old school buses.

7. San Agustin

San Agustin

San Agustin is a laidback little town surrounded by awesome landscapes and the remains of a forgotten civilization. One of the most intriguing ancient sites in Colombia, the archeological park of San Agustin is home to more than 500 monoliths, statues, petroglyphs and sarcophagi.

Most of the stone carvings at San Agustin were created between 100 A.D. and 1200 A.D. They include representations of human figures, smiling and sneering monsters as well as animals such as snakes, birds and jaguars. The pre-Incan culture that built the stone carvings is surrounded by mystery.

No one knows their actual name. Most of what is known about this society comes from the interpretation of the carved statues and other ruins.

6. Medellin

Medellin

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Medellín was considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world, home to Colombia’s infamous cocaine cartel. But when drug lord Pablo Escobar was snuffed out in 1993, Medellín began to bury its troubled past and rebounded tremendously.

These days, the increasing number of tourist who come here find an inviting, modern city with one of the country’s best climates. Located in the Andes in the narrow Aburra Valley, the city sports temperatures averaging 24°C/72°F throughout the year, making any time a good time to visit.

The city has fine dining selections for a romantic evening out, world-famous coffee to savor, and trendy bars to socialize with locals and fellow tourists.

Relish in the mountain backdrop views on the Medellin metro cable that travels up to Parque Arvi, an ecological nature reserve. Visiting Parque Arvi is one of the most popular things to do in Medellin. The green oasis is thriving with numerous plant species, hiking trails, and guided nature tours to learn about the species that live within the park.

Head to Plaza Botero, one of the key areas of Medellin. The plaza is decorated with paintings and sculptures by iconic Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Be sure to pay a visit to Comuna 13, a neighborhood that transformed itself from crime-ridden to a thriving artistic hub. You’ll marvel at the colorful murals gracing the walls, reflecting the resilience and warmth of the community.

5. Zona Cafetera

Zona Cafetera

Travelers who love their java will definitely want to visit Zona Cafetera (Eje Cafetero) where almost half of Colombia’s coffee crop is grown on the slopes of the Andes. Referred to as the “Coffee Triangle”, Zona Cafetera is situated between Bogota, Medellin, and Cali . It is here where the most prosperous coffee plantations can be discovered.

The coffee farms welcome curious coffee lovers wishing to peek into how these exceptional coffee beans are grown before people worldwide serve the coffee piping hot into a cup.

Hiking is another popular activity in the Zona Cafetera, specifically the Cocora Valley Trail. The endangered Quindio wax palm, the tallest palm tree in the world endemic to the area, can be seen on this route. There’s also the town of Jardin, nestled in the center of the Zona Cafetera. This quaint little town’s cobblestoned streets feature a welcoming atmosphere, brightly-colored buildings, and cafes serving local delicacies.

San Gil

Situated in the Department of Santander in Eastern Andino, San Gil is notorious for being the adventure sports capital of Colombia.

Founded in 1689, the town displays cobblestone streets, historic structures, defining architecture, and rich culture in one magnetic place. It has become a popular travel destination amongst backpackers, though it is not a crowded tourist spot. Nevertheless, San Gil offers plenty of activity and adventure for an unrivaled memorable trip!

Bungee jumping is one of the most popular activities in San Gil, which is well-known for its affordable pricing. Another hot activity in San Gil is whitewater rafting, which has one of the world’s rarest opportunities to raft Class 5 rapids. There’s also swimming at the two best swimming spots, Pescaderito and Pozo Azul. Closer to town, Pozo Azul is only two miles from San Gil and has a gentle current perfect for relaxing in the waters.

One of the tallest waterfalls in Colombia is only a thirty-minute drive from San Gil. The Juan Curi Waterfall, near the town of Palenque, is surrounded by rich greenery and makes for a rewarding hike!

Bogota

Sometimes referred to as “the Athens of South America”, Bogota was first settled by indigenous peoples, though the founding date is generally set at 1538 by a Spanish explorer. Today, the city is one of the largest cities in South America and Colombia’s capital.

Once considered a place to avoid, Bogota has cleaned up its act and is fast becoming one of the best places to visit in Colombia. Located at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) in the Andes, Bogota has numerous attractions to entice visitors, including a planetarium, gold museum, botanical gardens, cultural events and a thriving nightlife.

The city’s historic district can be found at La Candelaria, a pleasant quarter of cafés, churches and museums. Take a cable car or hike up to the striking Monserrate Sanctuary. At 3,152 meters (10,341 feet) above sea level, this magical site offers you an unparalleled view of the entire city. Catch your breath, snap some pictures, and enjoy some local snacks at the top.

2. Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park is a must-see place for travelers who enjoy nature and exploring old ruins. Located on the north Colombia coast, the park offers a variety of ecosystems, from swamps to scrublands to cloud forests.

For many travelers, the park’s biggest attraction is its beaches , set in deep bays and shaded with coconut palms. In fact, Tayrona beaches are among Colombia’s most beautiful. The park is also popular with birdwatchers who come to see the Andean condor, a threatened species.

The park takes its name from the Tayronas, a native people, who left their mark on a number of archaeological sites, including Pueblito Chairama. Tayrona is a good place to snorkel, hike and see wild animals, including lizards and monkeys, in their native habitat.

1. Cartagena

Cartagena

Cartagena is the bustling city where Kathleen Turner’s character Joan Wilder begins her Colombian adventures in Romancing the Stone. Hopefully, travelers will get their visits off to better starts, though the city is just as busy as when it was one of the key Caribbean ports from the 16th to 18th centuries.

Fought over by various countries, Cartagena was one of the most heavily fortified cities in South America; these fortifications can still be seen today.

Cartagena Walled City

As you stroll through the maze-like, cobblestoned streets of Cartagena’s Walled City, you will be transported back to a bygone era when pirates roamed the seas and noble Spaniards called the shots. Under the shade of balconies overflowing with bougainvillea, you’ll encounter street vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry to refreshing cups of raspados – a delicious Colombian shaved ice treat.

See also: Where to Stay in Cartagena

The area of Bocagrande, a long strip of hotel towers and condos fronting onto the beach, is also very popular with tourists.

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Reader interactions.

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October 29, 2019 at 8:08 pm

The Guajira beaches are amazing. Palomino is pretty well deserted and gorgeous.Worth checking out.

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October 27, 2019 at 9:41 am

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September 26, 2019 at 9:42 pm

I am based in South Africa. Wish I could stay in Colombia forever and good. Am glad that despite the previous crime and violence the government are doing their best to fight it.

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May 25, 2019 at 4:35 pm

I personally enjoy Barranquilla. It’s the culture, musica, and great evening night life and a wide choice of restaurants and street food. Best in December thru The end of Carnaval.

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May 30, 2018 at 9:21 am

Great article! Colombia has several beautiful places to explore with so different landscapes! I would add to this list the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira because it is one of the wonders of the country!

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March 23, 2018 at 3:40 pm

Bogota as athens of the andes? According to what *objective* source… I live there. It is anything but.

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October 20, 2014 at 4:58 pm

One place worth at least an honourable mention in “best vacation spots Colombia” is Rodadero. Better beaches than Cartagena, close to Santa Marta (1.500 peso) bus ride plus close to Parque Tayrona….which I would put higher up on the list. Taganga is to be avoided.

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Worldly Adventurer

The 31 Best Places to Visit in Colombia: Coffee, Coastline and Cloud Forests

By Author Graham Minser

Posted on Last updated: 16th October 2023

Possessing towering mountains and windswept deserts, untouched jungle coastlines and cloud forests, snow-capped active volcanoes and large swathes of Amazonian rainforest, Colombia’s natural setting could not be more dramatic.

It is the second-most bio-diverse country in the world, trailing only its neighbor, Brazil.

While naturally stunning in the countryside, Colombia’s cities buzz with a non-stop energy that merits exploration as well. Set to a soundtrack of salsa, reggaeton, and vallenato music, the country’s major cities are always on the move.

For a long time, Colombia was saddled with an unfortunate reputation for drug trafficking and violence, making the news for all the wrong reasons.

Since the dark days of the mid-1990s, the country has undergone a transformation that has restored it to its rightful place as a thrilling and welcoming travel destination.

A beautiful yellow building in Plaza de Coches.

Colombia has an infectious vigor about it. The cities, beaches, mountains, music, dancing, and welcoming people all beckon you to join in the fun. Ready to jump on that flight? First, discover the best places to visit in Colombia.

Click to navigate this article:

1. Take in the preserved colonial city of Cartagena

Perhaps the perfect place to begin your journey is in one of the original and best-preserved Colombian cities, Cartagena .

Founded nearly five hundred years ago by Spanish conquistadors, the city originally served as a fortress and base for Spanish incursions further inland, then soon after as an economic and political center for the Spanish vice royalty.

Iglesia Santo Domingo at dusk in Cartagena

Nowadays, the former wealth and importance of the city are on full display. A stroll around the old center neighborhoods of El Centro and San Diego reveals many opulent mansions housing restaurants, many of Cartagena’s best boutique hotels , as well as fascinating museums, all restored and brightly painted.

Highlights include the shady Plaza de Bolívar , the lovely Casa de Rafael Nuñez , and the grisly Palacio de la Inquisición , which details the sordid activities of the Spanish Inquisition.

A can’t-miss just east of the center across the lagoon is the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a massive fortress built to protect the city and harbor.

As the midday sun can be quite taxing and there is a lack of shade, we advise visiting early in the morning or around dusk for the most relaxed experience.

In the walled city just south of the center is the neighborhood of Getsemaní. Possessing a more bohemian vibe than the statelier center, this is a great area for evening drinks and nightlife and has many of the city’s hostels.

Colourful umbrellas that cover a street in the neighbourhood of Getsemaní.

The dining scene in Cartagena is exceptional. One should not miss out on the local criolla cuisine, specializing in fresh seafood. Some great places to try include Alma , Doña Lola , and Restaurante Celele .

Nightlife is another big draw in Cartagena. For a rooftop sundowner, enjoy splendid views and cocktails at Mirador .

For those keen on watching or joining in the salsa scene, head over to Donde Fidel or Café Havana . For pumping house, electronic, and reggaeton, try Alquímico .

Discover other unmissable things to do in Cartagena with our comprehensive local guide and check out other activities beyond the Walled City with our article about the best day tours to take from Cartagena .

2. Beat the heat and relax in laid-back Minca

The perfect respite from the bustle of the coastal cities, the mountain village of Minca is home to a mix of locals, emigres from the city, and expats seeking a change of pace.

An up-and-coming travel destination, Minca draws visitors for its organic coffee and chocolate, unparalleled bird-watching opportunities, and cooler temperatures.

The hills of Minca, Colombia are dotted with small coffee plants.

The compact town is a good place to organize your activities, which should include a hike to a waterfall, birdwatching, and a plantation tour to learn about the excellent local coffee and chocolate.

The good people at Jungle Joe will coordinate whatever you are looking to do and have English-speaking guides.

For a relaxing stay, head to the gloriously situated Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro ($82 USD double), with its sweeping views across the valley and resident birdlife (including hummingbirds, parrots, and even peacocks).

A hummingbird sits in a tree in the Reserva Natural Tierra Adentro in Minca

3. Hit the beach at Tayrona National Park

Just east of Santa Marta is the stunning Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona .

Covering a beautiful stretch of forested Caribbean coast under the towering Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Tayrona is dotted with hidden coves and secluded sandy beaches: the perfect escape from civilization.

Beautiful Caribbean coastline of Tayrona National Park

The most popular beach is the beautiful Cabo San Juan del Guía , which has a restaurant and camping site. A more upscale option is to stay at Finca Barlovento , on the beach at Los Naranjos at the east end of the park.

A quieter choice for some time on the beach would be Playa Cristal , which is accessed by boat from nearby Neguange.

Bear in mind when swimming or snorkeling that much of the coastline here has a strong undertow, so be sure to consult with locals about the currents before venturing out too deep.

4. Immerse yourself in a multi-day lost city trek to Ciudad Perdida

One of the great adventures of South America, the four-day trek to and from the fabled Ciudad Perdida is for many the highlight of their holiday.

Known locally as Teyuna, the ‘lost city’ was rediscovered in the 1970s and has since been accessed only on foot and to a limited number of visitors to preserve the site.

The city is thought to have been inhabited between the 11 th and 14 th centuries and housed up to four thousand people.

Rock pathways and scenery surrounding the Ciudad Perdida or Lost City in Colombia.

All guide companies are government-certified and will outfit travelers with the necessary equipment, including camping gear, food, and water. 

We recommend the professional Expotur , whose guides are indigenous and knowledgeable about the archaeological sites and the surrounding region and its peoples.

Tours leave from Santa Marta, and the hike begins at the end of the road in a village on the slopes of the mountains.

Although the trek can be done all year except September – when the site is closed for maintenance – it is advised to make the trip during the dry season, which runs from mid-December through April. Make sure to bring strong mosquito repellent; local brand Nopikex is highly recommended.

5. Explore the remote Guajira peninsula

At the northern tip of the continent, La Guajira has always been a world apart from the rest of the region. Its indigenous people, the Wayuu, were never conquered by the Spanish, and they retain a clear identity of their own.

Their land is one of stunning contrast, framing untamed sand dunes against the deep blue Caribbean which surrounds them. This is a beautiful corner of Colombia, and one ripe for exploration.

Sandboard down the sand dunes at Punta Gallinas in the La Guajira Peninsula, an unmissable place to visit in Colombia

All trips to La Guajira begin in Riohacha, the city gateway to the peninsula. When visiting the region, it is important not to be in a hurry as transport is irregular and can be time-consuming.

Many visitors come for kite surfing, four-wheeling across dunes in the largest Colombian desert, or spotting flamingos at the Santuario de Fauna y Flora los Flamencos .

The northernmost point on the continent is Punta Gallinas, which has perhaps the most beautiful beach in the country, Playa Taroa, sandwiched between the sea and a giant sand dune.

Because tourism is nascent here and few job opportunities exist for the inhabitants of the region, it’s essential to explore La Guajira responsibly. You can do this by taking a four-day tour with Macuira Tours and supporting the Wayuu community directly.

Indigenous-owned, the guides at Macuira Tours really know the region and will give you a fascinating insight into the daily life of those who live in one of the most extreme environments in Colombia. [Read founder Steph’s reporting about how tourism might change the future for the Wayuu of La Guajira ]

6. Get your adrenaline pumping in San Gil

Leaving the north coast, thrill-seekers will revel in visiting San Gil , the adventure sports capital of Colombia. There is no shortage of things to do, as visitors can choose between zip-lining, abseiling, white-water rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

The friendly folks at Macondo Hostel can organize any adventure you have in mind and have experienced and friendly guides who have tried all the activities.

An old bridge surrounded by the lush greenery of  Gallineral Park in San Gil, Colombia.

San Gil is also a great place to relax for a few days. On the eastern edge of town is Parque El Gallineral , a wonderful, sprawling reserve on an island in the Río Fonce.

A fifteen-minute drive northeast of town is Pescaderito, a series of five swimming holes on the stream above the village of Curití.

7. Experience Bogotá, one of the continent’s most influential cities

The capital city of Colombia is a microcosm of the entire country. Amidst the hustle and bustle, you’ll find the best food and museums, and see how the city is shaping the future of the nation.

The old center, La Candelaría , sits directly beneath Cerro Montserrate and its shining white church, one of the most famous landmarks of Colombia. It’s also a great starting point for sightseeing in Bogotá.

Although this metropolis of over ten million people has tons of neighborhoods, restaurants, and museums to explore, most of the best places are concentrated in the barrios of La Candelaría and Chapinero.

Bogota is home to colourful communities and buildings

When traveling to Bogotá Colombia, a must-see is the Museo Botero , featuring the art of Medellín-native Fernando Botero as well as works by Picasso, Chagall, and Monet.

Another with excellent exhibits is the Museo de Oro , which has an amazing collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.

The capital city of Colombia also represents the cutting-edge of national cuisine. New restaurants in Bogota are opening each year focusing on fresh, local Andean ingredients. For a gastronomic experience, head to Mesa Franca, El Cielo, or the more traditional La Puerta Falsa .

8. Witness the transformation of Medellín, Colombia’s most comfortable city

Many travelers who have watched a certain TV series have gotten the wrong idea about Medellín. But most of them have a very different opinion after spending a few days in Colombia’s second city.

For a start, the climate is ideal, with year-round daytime highs around 28°C (82°F) and lows around 17°C (63°F), meaning it’s always the best time to visit Medellín.

The Medellín cityscape.

Many visitors choose to stay in the Poblado neighborhood, which has many good hostels and restaurants catering to the backpacker set.

Other travelers seeking more local environs opt to stay in the leafy, affluent neighborhoods of Laureles or Belén, each one of the best places to stay in Colombia.

Visitors wishing to know the city’s painful past and subsequent rebirth should visit the Museo Casa de la Memoría , which details the origins of the conflict and individual experiences of those who lived through it or do Impulse Travel’s brilliant We Don’t Talk About Pablo tour [Steph’s note: read my experience of this tour and how it shows Medellin transformation ].

Among the best activities is a full day at Parque Arví , where you can go hiking, bird watching, hire mountain bikes, or have a picnic overlooking Medellín.

Getting there is half the fun, as the park is accessed by a cable car rising high above the city.

A cable car in the Colombian city of Medellin

Visitors looking to eat local should seek out the Bandeja Paísa , a platter heaving with pork, avocado, arepa, rice, beans, eggs, fruit, vegetables, and more pork for good measure.

PaloSanto in Laureles puts out a good rendition of the dish.

9. Visit the Eje Cafétero, Colombia’s prime coffee-growing country

South of Medellín between the three cities of Pereira, Armenia, and Manizales lies the region where your morning cup of coffee may come from.

The Eje Cafétero (Coffee Axis) is set in lush rolling hills beneath the snow-clad Nevado del Ruiz, the volcano that in part makes the region so fertile. The bucolic setting and down-to-earth local population make this one of the best places in Colombia.

Wax palm trees above grassland in the Valle del Cocora in Colombia

Travelers should base themselves in the charming town of Salento, which is nearby the stunning Valle del Cocora , with its cloud forest and iconic wax palm trees.

A trip to the area is of course incomplete without a tour of a local coffee-growing finca (plantation), and we recommend Café Don Manolo outside of Pereira for a tour led by the owner himself or stay overnight at one of the best hotels in Colombia ,  Hacienda Venecia , a coffee farm turned gorgeous guesthouse.

While in Salento, don’t forget to try Colombia’s national game, tejo , in which the player lobs a stone disc at small packets of gunpowder. It goes well with a local beer and is a great way to join in some local fun.

A great way to get around the area is in one of the many classic Willy’s Jeeps that bring locals and tourists alike from town to town.

10. Lose yourself in a well-preserved colonial village

The map of Colombia is dotted with beautiful colonial-era villages that are effectively living museums and should be on everyone’s list of what to see in Colombia.

Colonial buildings in Villa de Leyva, a beautiful and historic place to visit in Colombia

Most of the country is within range of one, with the best examples being Barichara near San Gil, Villa de Leyva north of Bogotá, and Jardín or Santa Fé de Antioquía outside of Medellín. Each has a beguiling charm with a central plaza, stately church, and cobbled streets, surrounded by idyllic mountains, waterfalls and forests.

11. Trek the gorgeous Tatacoa Desert

South of Bogotá and the Eje Cafétero, next to Colombia’s main artery, the Magdalena River, is an unexpected micro-climate.

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled onto the set of a Western film as you walk among the adobe-colored rock formations and spiky cacti of the Tatacoa Desert.

An aerial view of the orange, red and yellow rock in the Tatacoa Desert, Colombia

While here, you can expect to see various bird species, scorpions, and spectacular views of the distant mountains. At night, don’t miss a visit to Observatorio Astrosur , which offers outstanding views of the night sky.

12. Tap into your wild side on the Pacific Coast

While the Caribbean coast is on the well-worn traveler path, the Pacific coastline in the department of Chocó is remote, wild, and largely unpopulated.

Access is difficult and mostly by small, chartered plane, but the rewards for visiting are rich indeed.

Sandy beach and sparkling water in national park natural Utria next to Nuqui, Colombia.

In recent years, more intrepid travelers have found their way to Bahía Solano, El Valle, or Coqui for diving, surfing, and river canoeing, respectively.

Ankla Azul is a professional diving outfit in Bahía Solano and dives regularly sight whale sharks and manta rays. The beach at El Valle has consistent two-meter swells, and good boards are available for hire.

For canoe trips upriver and visits to indigenous communities, make arrangements in the town of Nuquí or the nearby village of Jurubidá .

Make sure to bring rain gear, strong insect repellent, and a mosquito net when visiting the region.

13. Explore the rainforest along the Amazon

A huge portion of Colombia is covered in the Amazonian rainforest, so of course there are opportunities to explore one of the most bio-diverse regions on the planet.

Because much of the Amazon region is remote and security can be an issue, travelers must base their jungle adventures out of Leticia , in the southeast corner of the country along the border with Peru and Brazil. Access is by plane from Bogotá or boat from Peru or Brazil.

Fog covering the Amazon rain forest by Leticia in Colombia.

Within the small city of Leticia are the only trappings of civilization in the region, and you may wish to visit the wonderful Mundo Amazónico gardens to learn about the local flora and fauna before beginning your trek.

Amazon Jungle Trips comes highly recommended, with over thirty years of experience and English-speaking guides.

Leticia is also the place to organize trips into the hinterland. Amazon Jungle Trips can arrange expeditions to the outstanding Parque Nacional Natural Amacayacu , one of the best South American tourist destinations. There are very few roads here, so nearly all transport is by boat.

14.  Get down to the rhythm of Cali

Colombia’s third-largest city, Cali is synonymous with salsa, the driving beat of southwestern Colombia. Temperatures are hotter than in Bogota and Medellin, and the favorite local pastime is to dance away the warm evenings till dawn in any of the salsa bars or clubs found around town.

Salsa dancing in Cali, Colombia, is a popular past-time with locals, who spend their warm evenings in any of the numerous salsa bars or clubs found in the town.

Although it’s tough to recommend a single place in this salsa-obsessed city, for a taste of real salsa caleña you should head to La Topa Tolondra or Malamaña Salsa Bar . Settle in for an aguardiente or rum before joining in the fun. If visiting in June, don’t miss the weeklong annual Feria de Cali which features some of the world’s top salsa bands and dance shows.

During the day, don’t miss the historic Plaza de Caicedo in the historic center, as well as the leafy Parque Simon Bolivar along the Cali River.

15. Discover the ancient heritage of the pre-columbian San Agustin civilization

One of South America’s lesser-known yet compelling archaeological sites is growing in popularity for its remarkable megalithic sculptures and burial grounds. A Unesco World Heritage Site since 1995, the San Agustin Archaeological Park has the world’s largest known necropolis.

The necropolis of Unesco World Heritage Site San Agustin Archaeological Park.

Inhabited between 0 and 400CE, the San Agustin civilization predated the Inca by a millennium. It wasn’t until the mid-18 th century that the site was rediscovered due to its remote location. San Agustin is located a three-and-a-half-hour drive southeast from Popayán in the south of the country.

16. Trek across jungle mountains to limestone caves at Cueva de los Guácharos National Park

An hour south of San Agustin is another of Colombia’s less-visited gems, the Cueva de los Guácharos National Park . Its namesake is the brown, nocturnal bird that inhabits the gorgeous limestone caves within the park.

The limestone caves at Cueva de los Guácharos National Park, one of Colombia's less-visited gems

An amazing experience for the intrepid hiker, the park is best visited on a two-day trek through cloud forest from the town of Palestina on a guided tour through Baquíanos .

For more on Colombia’s natural splendor, check out our extensive guide to its best national parks .

17. Camp and ride horses in the shadow of an active volcano at Galeras Sanctuary

Further south, approaching the frontier with Ecuador, is the spectacular Santuario de Fauna y Flora Galeras (Galeras Animal and Plant Sanctuary). Sitting above the city of Pasto, this wildlife refuge boasts crater lakes, cloud forest, and wildlife generally found further south in Ecuador and Peru.

Horseback riding at Santuario de Fauna y Flora Galeras, home to the active Galeras Volcano

The park is home to the active Galeras Volcano (last eruption 2010), and although the peak is closed to climbers, Ecoglobal Expeditions can arrange multi-day camping trips with horseback riding.

18. Plan an adventure in Colombia’s cowboy country at Tuparro National Park

One of Colombia’s most remote areas, Tuparro National Park is located in the east of the country where the rain forest makes way for the plains of Los Llanos further north. This is a land of extremes, where the dry season sees scorching temperatures and endless prairie land, and the rainy season inundates much of the region for months at a time.

Capybaras are visible on the banks and in the waters of the Orinoco River, located in the Tuparro National Park.

Many locals still rely on horses for their livelihood, and it’s a great place to spend some time in the saddle seeking some of the area’s amazing wildlife. In this tough but starkly beautiful land, you can expect to spot peccaries, armadillos, and tapirs, as well as caymans and capybaras in the Orinoco River.

19. Journey far off-grid to the untouched rain forests of Guaviare

A large portion of Colombia is covered in old-growth rainforest, and while many visitors choose the more popular Amacayu National Park, more travelers are discovering the stupendous Guaviare region as an alternative that sees fewer tourists.

The gateway of San José del Guaviare, the entry to the untouched rain forests of Guaviare.

From the gateway of San José del Guaviare , visitors can sign up for tours up and down the Guaviare River where you can swim with river dolphins, or into the interior for waterfalls and pools, ancient cave paintings, amazing bird-watching, and prime hiking trails through ancient forests. Although intrepid travelers can do this trip on their own, we recommend maximizing your time and benefiting from local expertise with locally-run Geo Tours .

20. Go whitewater rafting with ex-insurgents in Caquetá

It may strike you as a dicey prospect, but one of the best adventures to be had in Colombia is led by people once armed and opposed to the national government. Fear not, however, as the landmark peace agreement between Bogotá and the FARC insurgency has done wonders for national security and given rise to eco-tourism in areas once off-limits to travelers.

Whitewater rafting with ex-insurgents in Caquetá is one of the best things to do in Colombia

A prime example is the whitewater rafting tour led by Impulse Travel , a local tour operator dedicated to sustainable tourism while supporting the communities formerly engrossed in the decades-long insurgency.

As for the rafting, it’s among the best to be found in South America. Tours run down the Pato River in the remote Caquetá region, and visitors shouldn’t miss the Museo Local de la Memoría Histórica (Local Museum of Historical Memory) in the village of Miravalle, which offers insight into the past conflict and the region’s subsequent transformation.

21. Make the trek through mountains and jungle to Caño Cristales

Offering an amazing variety of mountain, jungle, and plain habitat, La Serranía de la Macarena National Park is one of Colombia’s wildest corners. Its most famous draw is the pink-hued Caño Cristales River , which gets its color from a riverweed native to the region.

The pink-colored Cano Cristales river, also known as 'The River of Five Colors' and the 'Liquid Rainbow'.

To make the most of your trip, go with Palenque Tours , who offer epic four-day trips to the park. Along the way, you will visit waterfalls and natural pools, spot local wildlife, and stay with local families in the village of La Macarena.

22. Explore Colombia’s lowland jungles and highland plains in Los Yariguíes

Between the low-lying jungle and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains, Los Yariguíes National Park offers an unparalleled variety of ecosystems, flora, and fauna. This park covers a total elevation range of 2700 meters (9000 feet) from sultry river valleys to wide expanses of high plains with icy blue lakes.

Los Yariguíes National Park has some of the country's most spectacular flora and fauna on show - including the Long-tailed Sylph Hummingbird

If you’re looking to fit in Colombia’s highlands and jungles into a single trek, this could be your best bet. We recommend Asocapayari , a local tour outfit that supports sustainable eco-tourism and the local community.

23. Spend a few days above the clouds in El Cocuy

The most epic of Colombia’s highland treks, El Cocuy National Park features the best of Colombia’s high-altitude landscapes, flora, and fauna. Keen hikers will relish the ridgeline paths and wide open expanse in Colombia’s central mountain range.

Beautiful view of El Cocuy National Park , Colombia, South America. Keen hikers consider this to be one of the best places to visit in Colombia.

Above the treeline, the windswept tundra is home to eagles and spectacled bears, and there are great opportunities for camping for those so inclined. Living Col offers guided treks to El Cocuy, lasting either 3 or 4 days.

24. Take in Colombia’s best vista at Guatapé

Two hours east of Medellín is one of Colombia’s most popular attractions: Guatapé and the massive lake adjacent. Many local paisas come here to enjoy a day on the water, and visitors can take their pick from boat tours, sailing, kayaking, wakeboarding, waterskiing, or jet skiing.

A panoramic view of the El Peñól rock overlooking the lake

The must-see attraction at Guatapé is the view from atop El Peñól , a massive rock towering over the lake. There’s a cafe at the top where you can sip a coffee with an unbeatable view.

While you’re here, check out our guide to the most beautiful lakes in South America .

25. Reimagine Colombia’s colonial past at Mompox

Among the most atmospheric towns in South America, Santa Cruz de Mompox is a beautifully-preserved colonial town in the marshy lowlands of Northern Colombia. The town center is a Unesco World Heritage Site and features stately villas and churches brightly painted and immaculately preserved.

The yellow and white plaza and market in Unesco World Heritage Site, Mompox in Colombia.

The town is quite remote but sits at a strategic point on the Magdalena River which connects the center of the country to the northern coast. Many who visit do so to imagine the fictional town of Macondo from Colombian Nobel laureate Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude .

26. Join in the Carnival fun in Barranquilla

At the mouth of the Magdalena River on the Caribbean coast is Colombia’s largest port city, Barranquilla . Although generally regarded as a workaday city, Barranquilla comes alive every February for South America’s second-most popular celebration of Carnival .

Colorful floats on display at Barranquilla's Carnival, South America's second most-popular carnival celebration.

As you might be able to tell by its native daughter, Shakira, the city lives and breathes music. Everywhere you go you’ll hear anything from salsa and vallenato to reggaeton. The African influence on the local music and Carnival celebration is apparent, and along with Cali the city is one of the best places in South America to dance the night away.

27. Discover Colombia’s African roots in La Boquilla

For a good look into Colombia’s African heritage, and especially how it has shaped its music, head just north along the coast from Cartagena to La Boquilla . This beachside community is the birthplace of cumbia , Colombia’s national dance.

Colombia's national dance, cumbia, relies heavily on a rhythm produced by traditional drums.

For a deeper dive into cumbia, take a daylong tour to learn how traditional drums are made, the rhythm that drives the dance, and join in on a jam session on the beach.

28. See bioluminescent plankton at Playa Blanca, Isla Barú

If you’re after an otherworldy experience, don’t miss seeing the glowing blue plankton after the sun sets at Playa Blanca. Although nominally an island, Isla Barú is in fact a peninsula that juts out into the Caribbean just south of Cartagena.

Beach huts on Isla Barú in Colombia - known for bioluminescent plankton. One of the best places to visit in Colombia, especially at night, make sure to build a trip here into your Colombia itinerary.

Not only can you easily spot them from the beach, but you can swim amongst the plankton for a one-of-a-kind experience. For a tour of the peninsula followed by a visit to the beach after dark, contact Las Islas .

29. Find your beach and diving paradise at San Bernardo

Further south of Cartagena is the picture-perfect archipelago of San Bernardo. Lacking the hordes of tourists of the neighboring Rosario islands, this is the place to kick back and enjoy the beach.

A tiny island in the Caribbean Archipelago San Bernardo near Tolu, Colombia

The clear, turquoise waters surrounding the islands are great for snorkeling and diving, and both reef and wreck dives are possible. Agenda del Mar can make all arrangements for your dive.

For more on all the great activities nearby Cartagena, check out our guide .

30. Get your fill of sun and sand on San Andrés

A fair distance north of the coast in the Caribbean are two islands isolated from the rest of Colombia, San Andrés and Providencia. The former of these is one of the country’s premier destinations for both Colombians and foreign tourists.

Popular with locals and tourists alike, San Andrés Island Bay is known for its turquoise waters and fresh seafood. San Andrés Island Bay is arguably one of the best places to visit in Colombia.

On San Andrés , visitors can choose from all sorts of activities, from snorkeling Johnny Cay and reef diving to kayaking through mangroves and soaking up the sun. Although the island can be overrun by local tourists (especially on weekends and holidays), the turquoise waters and fresh seafood are among the draws that make it worth your trip.

31. Chill out on Providencia, a quiet Caribbean gem

While San Andrés gets the crowds, its neighboring island Providencia sees fewer visitors and has a more laid-back vibe. While it takes a bit more time and effort to reach (you can fly or take a three-hour catamaran from San Andrés).

Healthy coral reef and colorful tropical fish in the waters of Colombia

Unlike in most of the country, locals generally speak English (English Creole is still the mother tongue here), and you won’t have to queue up to explore the pristine beaches, reefs, and hiking trails found here. Don’t miss the panoramic view from The Peak in the center of the island.

FAQs about Colombia

1. where is colombia.

Colombia occupies the northwest corner of South America, just south of Panama and north of Peru, with extensive coastline on both the Caribbean and the Pacific. It’s a two- or three-hour flight south from Miami and covers a wide range of climatic zones, from deserts and reef-fringed coasts in the north to endless wetlands in the center; rolling farmlands in the heartland and endless tracts of untouched rain forest, all crisscrossed by three parallel ridges of the Andes mountains.

For more information on the best places in Colombia, check out our Colombia travel guid e , filled with itineraries for every traveler.

2. Can I travel to Colombia right now?

Yes! Colombia is open to travelers from most countries, and all destinations are open to tourism with bio-security regulations in place, while visitors are required to be vaccinated against Covid-19. Tourism numbers remain reduced compared with pre-pandemic, meaning it’s actually the best time to visit Colombia .

3. Is traveling to Colombia safe?

For travelers who practice common sense, Colombia is a safe place to visit. Avoid being a target by being discreet with valuables such as phones, watches, and money, and take taxis directly to your destination when out after dark. Some areas in the big cities of Colombia experience violent crime, but travelers rarely find themselves in these neighborhoods.

4. Which places should I avoid in Colombia?

Since the end of the civil war and the disbanding of the paramilitary FARC, national security has improved dramatically. That said, there are still insurgents in remote corners of the country. Tourists almost never encounter trouble, as these groups are based deep in the jungle far from civilization.

Wander-Lush

29 Unforgettable Things to Do in Colombia in 2024

From hiking and biking to cooking and coffee picking, scuba diving to dancing salsa, Colombia offers a myriad of unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller.

I spent a wonderful month in Colombia exploring Bogota, Medellin and small towns in Antioquia. I only managed to scratch the surface of this huge, diverse nation – there’s still so much I have to see and do!

This list of Colombia must-dos covers some of the best outdoor activities and immersive cultural experiences on offer. Read on for the ultimate Colombia bucket list to inspire your trip.

Is there something we missed? Let me know your favourite thing to do in Colombia in the comments below.

  • Also see: The best places to visit in Colombia this year

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

29 of the best things to do in Colombia this year

Explore cartagena’s colonial old town.

Orange and yellow buildings in Cartagena's colonial Old Town, a must visit in Colombia.

Cartagena’s Old Town, also known as the ‘Walled City’ , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, charming plazas, and vibrant culture.

Visitors can spend hours wandering the narrow streets and admiring the colourful buildings and street art. I visited it a few years ago and I was astonished by its beauty.

One popular activity in the Old Town I strongly recommend is visiting the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city from pirate attacks. The fortress offers stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

Another must-see attraction is the Palacio de la Inquisicion, a former palace that now houses a museum detailing the history of the inquisition in Cartagena. Visitors can also explore the many churches and cathedrals in Old Cartagena, including the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandria and the Church of San Pedro Claver.

Practical tips for visiting Old Town include wearing comfortable shoes, as the streets are cobblestone and can be uneven. Also, it is recommended to visit during the day as some areas can be unsafe at night.

Visitors should also be prepared for the heat and humidity – bring sunscreen and a hat.

Cartagena’s Old Town is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cartagena. Touring the fortress, palaces and churches, and experiencing the local food and culture are experiences that are worth doing.

By Leo from Safari Nomad

→ Recommended: Private city walking tour of Cartagena

Tour a Colombian coffee plantation in Eje Cafetero

Coffee plants grow in the Colombian hinterland.

Coffee is one of the world’s most delectable little pleasures, not to mention one of the most consumed beverages worldwide: we drink two billion cups of coffee every single day.

Colombia has some of the world’s best coffee, and most of it comes from the Eje Cafetero or the coffee-growing axis, a triangle located in western Colombia along the central Andes – and a landscape classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Visiting a coffee plantation here is not only entertaining but informative, with coffee producers explaining the entire process from planting and farming right through to tasting and packaging. And, you get to taste what coffee is really like before all the processing.

Some of the coffee farms are located far up the mountainside and are extremely difficult to reach, requiring a guide and a sturdy vehicle. In the valley, though, a string of impossibly picturesque towns, including Salento and Filandia, are irresistible, with their brightly painted houses.

Not far from Salento is the Valle de Cocora, home of the giant wax palms that exist nowhere else. To get there, just hop on one of the jeeps in Salento’s central square (see the next section below).

Wherever you go in Colombia’s coffee-growing region , you’ll be drawn in by the scenery and the hospitality – and by the inability to put away your camera because you’ll want to photograph every single building, market and street.

By Leyla from Women on the Road

→ Recommended: Half-day coffee plantation tour from Medellin

Walk amongst the wax palms in the Cocora Valley

A green landscape of towering wax palm trees seen on the Cocora Valley hike outside Salento, Colombia.

The Valle del Cocora or Cocora Valley is one of the most magical places to visit in Colombia . Known for its towering wax palm trees, rolling green hills and misty cloud forests, it is a landscape like no other.

Hiking in the Cocora Valley is a must for active travellers and anyone who wants to soak up the beauty of the Coffee Axis. The closest town, Salento, is an ideal departure point, and transportation to the trailheads via Willy Jeep is readily available from the main square.

There are a range of walking routes available in the valley, ranging from a mere 30 minutes on foot to full-day treks. The classic Cocora Hike takes around 5-6 hours to complete. You will navigate suspension bridges, trace empty mud roads, and walk along ridges with spectacular views.

To avoid the afternoon rain showers, it’s recommended to set off from Salento in the early morning. Walking counter-clockwise – starting in the rainforest and ending in the Bosque de las Palmas, the highlight of Valle del Cocora National Natural Reserve – is the best way to go.

→ Recommended: Cocora, Salento and Filandia Tour

Climb El Penol in Guatape

Aerial view of El Penol in Guatape, a giant rock formation overlooking a reservoir near Medellin.

The towering granite rock of El Peñol (also called La Piedra) draws many tourists to the beautiful lakeside town of Guatape. The rock reaches 740 feet into the sky and offers breathtaking views of the waterways below for anyone who dares to climb its 600-plus steep steps.

The rock-hewn stairs criss-cross up the sheer face of the rock almost like the lacing of a corset. The stair railings are high – there is nothing dangerous or scary about the climb. It’s suitable for children, and kids under 100 cm tall can climb for free.

There are a few places to take a break and catch your breath as you go. In some places, water drips down, making the stairs a bit slippery. Luckily, most of the climb is shaded, so you won’t be fighting the hot Colombian sun.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the man-made reservoir below. Visit the small cafe and gift shop before heading back down the stairs to the bottom. When I visited, I rewarded myself for the difficult climb with an ice cream at the base of the rock.

If you have time, head into the town of Guatape, just a five-minute tuk-tuk ride from La Piedra. Here, you’ll find colourful buildings painted with bas-relief symbols and streets packed with pretty cafes and shops.

Visiting Guatape is a great day trip from Medellin – the bus ride is around 2 hours, and coaches depart from Medellin’s Terminal del Sur every 30 minutes. The driver will drop you off at the base of the rock before heading into town (listen for the call “La Piedra”).

By Cynthia from ​​Sharing the Wander

→ Recommended: El Peñol with boat, breakfast & lunch from Medellin

Witness Colombia’s transformation on a tour of Comuna 13

A tour guide explains the meaning behind street murals in Medellin's Comuna 13.

If you want to come away from Colombia with a deeper understanding and empathy for the country’s past struggles, a tour of Comuna 13 in Medellin is a must-do.

This notorious mountaintop barrio was once one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in the world. In recent years it has undergone immense transformation and now serves as one of the city’s top tourist attractions .

A guided tour of Comuna 13 with a local guide is an eye-opening and enriching experience. Not only will you get to see the best of the area’s street murals and ride the famous escalas eléctricas outdoor escalators, you’ll also get to hear first-hand stories about the neighbourhood’s violent past and how families are fighting for a better future.

Vibrant street graffiti, hip-hop dancing and music dominate the streets of Comuna 13, where creativity and artistic expression has proven to be a way to process past traumas.

The area is safe for tourists, but it’s easy to lose your way in the warren of narrow alleyways. It’s recommended to join a guided tour to get the most out of the experience.

→ Recommended: Comuna 13 graffiti and street food tour

Photograph the houses in Jardin, Antioquia’s most colourful pueblo

Painted houses in Jardin, Colombia's most colourful village.

Often dubbed the most colourful town in Antioquia Department, Jardin is a photographer’s dream. The pueblo can be reached in around 4 hours by road from Medellin and is an ideal stop-off on your way to the Valle del Cocora and Coffee Axis.

Like most towns in this part of Colombia, Jardin was built off the back of coffee and sugarcane. Residents of Jardin are known for being house proud and painting their abodes in a wonderful array of bright colours . Flower boxes, carved wooden balconies and cute shutters add to each house’s curb appeal.

A self-guided walking tour of Jardin is the best way to discover the town, whose name comes from the Spanish word for ‘garden’. Spot the rose buses and manicured shrubs around El Libertador Park, Jardin’s main square made from beautiful river rocks and locally quarried stone. Colourful bars and cafes line the perimeter, and you can have great fun lingering at one of these watering holes where locals gather to shoot the breeze.

The town’s centrepiece, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is an impressive Neo-Gothic stone cathedral with a blue ombre interior and sparkling silver towers.

Spend a night at the Hotel Jardin, a classic finca in the centre of town with an open internal courtyard and the same popping colour scheme.

Step back in time in charming Jerico

A man rides his horse in front of colourful houses in Jerico, Colombia.

If Jardin is the most colourful town in Colombia, then Jerico is surely the most charming. The two are only a 2-hour drive apart, yet many tourists skip over Jerico, not realising how lovely it is.

I spent a full week in Jericó walking the steep streets, hiking to various viewpoints over the valley and eating my body weight in Bandeja Paisa. At times it truly feels like time has stood still in this small town, where men dressed in wool ponchos and gorgeous sombrero vueltiao hats still get around the cobblestone streets on horseback.

For the full experience, spend a night or two at El Despertar , a beautiful boutique hotel set inside an old Antioquian mansion house.

Grab a drink at the delightfully retro Tangos y Algo Más bar , visit the Casa Natal Madre Laura, a small house museum dedicated to Colombia’s first Saint who was born here in Jerico, and spend a few hours strolling in the Botanical Garden.

The thing I love most about Jerico are the many workshops in town where artisans craft Carriel bags, a distinctive style of satchel that is a Jerico specialty and has become part of every Paisa’s traditional uniform.

There is no better authentic Colombian souvenir than a handmade Jerico Carriel bag embossed with the leather smith’s mark.

Summit Monserrate for the best views of Bogota

A walking path leads up Monserrate in Bogota, one of the best experiences in Colombia.

Monserrate is one of the most iconic landmarks in Colombia . Located in the heart of Bogota, this mountain rises 133 metres above the city and offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding area. Visiting it is a must on any Bogota itinerary .

The journey to Monserrate is just as incredible as reaching the peak itself. Visitors can either take a cable car ride up the steep mountainside, or choose to hike approximately 1.8 miles (3 kilometres) one-way. Whichever way you decide you go, you’ll be blessed with stunning views along the way.

At the summit, you will find a 17th-century church that has been preserved over the years. There are also several cafes and restaurants where you can buy a refreshment as you admire the capital from above.

I recommend you visit Monserrate for sunset , when the cityscape of Bogota is decorated by a warm glow. If you stay past sunset, you can also watch the city slowly illuminate.

It is important to bring something warm with you. The peak of Monserrate is 3,152 metres high, which means it can get very cold, especially at night!

By Sean from Living Out Lau

→ Recommended: Monserrate and La Candelaria private tour

Get back to nature in Tayrona National Park

Waves crash against palm trees in Tayrona National Park.

Visiting Tayrona National Park (Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona) is one of the best nature experiences in Colombia. Located on the Caribbean coast, the park covers around 58 square miles of land and 11 square miles of ocean habitat, offering lush rainforests, beautiful beaches and Indigenous cultures to explore .

To reach the beaches and hiking trails, you’ll need to hike or hire a horse from the park entrance at El Zaíno, or take a boat from Taganga. Some people come here on a day trip, but I’d recommend spending a night or two to enjoy the tranquil coastline after the day trippers have gone.

There are a variety of options for where to stay in Tayrona National Park , from luxury ecohabs to camping and sleeping in a hammock. If you’re on a budget, hammocks or tents at Cabo San Juan del Guia are the best option, as you camp right next to the beach, listening to the waves as you fall asleep.

Don’t miss waking up for an incredible sunrise – you won’t regret it!

Aside from the beautiful beaches, you don’t have to go far to find culture in Tayrona as many Indigenous communities from the region still dwell inside the National Park. I recommend a hike to El Pueblito, the Indigenous settlement deep in the jungle.

Keep a lookout for wildlife as you walk – if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of an endangered cotton-top tamarin, a howler monkey, or some of the many bats, birds, butterflies and more.

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Hike to Ciudad Perdida, Colombia’s Lost City

The Lost City, an ancient ruin in the Colombian jungle.

Located deep in the jungles of northwestern Colombia, Ciudad Perdida or ‘The Lost City’ is an archaeological site that was hidden away for centuries. ‘Rediscovered’ in 1972, it dates to 700 AD – making it 650 years older than Machu Picchu.

Only 10% of the site has been uncovered, so there is still plenty left for archaeologists to discover. The ruins have been open to tourists for the past 15 years, however, they are still surprisingly under-visited and well worth exploring if you want an authentic Colombian experience.

Ciudad Perdida can only be reached on foot. The 28 mile round-trip hike takes 4-6 days to complete. The route traverses the lush, humid jungles of the Sierra Nevada mountains and includes thrilling river crossings and steep hills. The tropical heat and humidity make this trek a gruelling one, so if you want to make it easier, opt for the 6-day version which includes more downtime.

Comparable to Peru’s infamous Inca Trail, this adventurous trek involves sleeping in hammocks, swimming in outdoor pools, visiting local Indigenous communities – and if you are lucky like I was, seeing a toucan in the wild!

Visiting during the dry season (December to March) is advised as the river crossings can reach chest height during Colombia’s wet season. Either way, a pair of waterproof shoes is a must for this trek.

By Roshni from TopTreehouses.com

→ Recommended: Guided 4-day Lost City Trek from Santa Marta

Go island hopping in the Rosario Islands, Cartagena’s Caribbean paradise

Boats float on crystal clear waters off the Rosario Islands near Cartagena.

Experiencing the charm of the colonial city of Cartagena is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Colombia. Spending a day out in the nearby Rosario Islands is the perfect complement to the flower covered balconies and historic fortifications of the city.

These coral islands surrounded by crystal clear waters are located about an hour’s boat ride away from Cartagena. The beaches here are so much prettier than those in town, and there is some pretty good snorkelling, too.

It’s tons of fun to do a private boat rental if you have the budget for it or can put together a group to make it cost effective. If not, there are some great tours by catamaran and multi-island trips that make several stops at different beaches and islands.

There are several great beach clubs in the islands, including Bora Bora Beach Club. Many Rosario Islands resorts also offer day passes. If you have time to linger longer, for a luxury stay, consider Las Islas lovely bungalows or Isla del Encanto , and for good value, consider IslaBela .

By Adam from CartagenaExplorer.com

→ Recommended: Catamaran excursion to the Rosario Islands

Walk underwater on San Andres

The San Andreas Archipelago is famous for being the only territory in the Caribbean Sea that belongs to the country of Colombia. Made up of two neighbouring islands, the larger being San Andreas, and the smaller Providencia, San Andreas is more remote than the Rosario Islands but is still a popular destination for travellers in Colombia.

The easiest way to get to San Andres Island is by taking a short flight from the mainland. Do be aware that once you arrive on the island, you should arrange transportation from the airport, as there is no Uber nor other ride-hailing apps on San Andreas or Providencia.

Known for its crystal-clear water, gorgeous beaches and world-class diving sites, San Andreas is a great place to go scuba diving or get your PADI Scuba Certification. 

Some of the most popular dive sites off of San Andreas include Trampa de Tortugas (‘Turtle Trap’ in English), La Rocosa (‘The Rocks’), Raggaenest, Bajo Bonito (‘Good Deep’), Los Recuerdos (‘The Memories’), and Trilogia (‘The Trilogy’). Each of these sites is good for a casual dive of around 1 hour. 

Don’t have your scuba certification? No Problem! San Andreas Island also has a very popular type of diving available for tourists that requires no PADI certification. It is called Aquanautas Helmet Diving – essentially you’re given a little fishbowl helmet that enables you to breathe underwater while walking on the ocean floor.

Snorkelling, diving and going on an underwater sea walk with Aquanautas are all amazing water activities any visitor will enjoy.

By Katie From KatieCafTravel.com

→ Recommended: Aquanautas Helmet Diving in San Andres

Explore the Forest of Statues in San Agustin Archaeological Park

An icon statue in the forest inside San Agustin Archaeological Park.

Nestled deep in the forests of Huila in south-western Colombia, San Agustín Archaeological Park (Parque Arqueológico De San Agustin) is one of the country’s premier pre-Columbian sites. This giant open-air museum is made for history buffs.

Inscribed by UNESCO in 1995, the sprawling landscape of megaliths and monuments dates back to 3000 BC and speaks to Colombia’s pre-Hispanic cultures , their mythology and rituals. Many of the edifices seen today were created as part of funerary rights.

Begin at the small Archaeological Museum to build a bit of background knowledge, then depart on one of the walking trails around the park that leads between excavated terraces and burial sites. Key statues such as the Bosque De Estatuas are all marked on the map.

The full route takes around 3-4 hours to complete on foot and requires some pre-planning – bring sunscreen, a hat and plenty of drinking water. The Forest of Statues, a sheltered path that highlights 39 key tombstones, is perfect for families with kids.

→ Recommended: Private tour of San Agustin with a local guide

Party at Carnival in Barranquilla, South America’s second-largest celebration

Women dressed in traditional costumes for the Carnival in Barranquilla, Colombia.

Every year, the city of Barranquilla hosts the famous Barranquilla Carnival – the world’s second largest carnival celebration after Rio de Janeiro. Experiencing the 4-day festival is without doubt one of the best things to do in Barranquilla and even in the whole of South America.

Carnival is the celebration held in the days before the Lenten fasting period in the lead-up to Easter. The dates change every year, but usually Carnival season falls around mid February or early March.

Barranquilla’s Carnival is full of elaborate parades, traditional displays of Colombian dance and music, and lots of impressive costumes. The entire city turns into a giant party and you’ll see people celebrating everywhere. The atmosphere is electric.

The carnival is free to attend (you can buy tickets if you want a good view), but it does get extremely busy so it’s advisable to arrive in the morning to get a good spot for the parades. It’s also recommended to wear a money belt under your clothes, bring plenty of water, and of course dress up for the party!

If your travel dates don’t coincide with the Barranquilla Carnival, don’t worry – you can still visit the Museo del Carnaval which is full of extravagant costumes and decorations.

By ​​Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Attend Feria de Cali, Colombia’s premier salsa festival

Dancers in colourful costumes participate in a parade for Feria de Cali festival.

December is usually the liveliest time of year no matter where you are in Colombia. If you find yourself in a festive mood, one thing that is worth dropping everything for is the opportunity to experience Feria de Cali.

This annual Salsa Festival usually runs from the 25th to the 30th of December and it attracts more than 2 million people from all over the world. The celebrations carry on over into the new year so it turns into somewhat of a giant New Year’s Eve street party.

Cali is famous for some of the world’s best salsa dancing and schools. Watch in awe as the Caleño style salsa takes over the city with sizzling hot dancers, colourful costumes, and live appearances featuring some of Colombia’s most accomplished dancers.

Most of the main events are free to watch, but to get a seat to see the Salsadrome and the parades live in action you will need to purchase advanced tickets .

While you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to try a cholado , a typical dessert made from shaved ice, fruit and condensed milk usually topped with shredded cheese or whipped cream. A cholado at Canchas Panamericanas is an absolute must while in Cali!

By Maddalena from Venice Travel Tips

Take a street art tour in Cartagena’s Getsemani

A man sleeping in front of a vibrant piece of street art in Cartagena.

Getsemani is a bohemian barrio in Cartagena that has shaken off its bad reputation thanks to gentrification and the resilience of local residents. It is now a popular hangout among backpackers and the bourgeoisie alike, who come here searching for street food and hip restaurants. This vibrant colonial neighbourhood is oozing with charm and character.

The best thing to do in Getsemani to discover the area’s unique cultural identity is a street art tour hosted by a local. Our passionate guide talked us through the history of the Spanish colonists, the abolition of slavery, the independence movement in Trinidad Plaza, and the more recent tumultuous period to set the scene.

The eye-popping graffiti art conveys messages on every facade in Getsemani. Expressing important social, ethnic, and political issues is part of the culture. Many murals are inspired by local legends and forgotten heroes.

The tour finishes at the locally-owned Carpentiros Bar where you can see photos of all the remaining residents on the wall.

To experience the real spirit of the Getsemani, hang around to watch the barrio come alive at night. Cocktails are served at pop-up bars outside residents’ houses, and the street performers prove just how much Colombians love their music!

By Vanessa from Wanders Miles

→ Recommended: Graffiti tour in Getsemani

Learn how to make empanadas at a Colombian cooking class

Two people make empanadas during a Colombian cooking class.

After you’ve spent even just a day or two in Colombia, you’ll realise that Colombian cuisine is delightfully unique and absolutely delicious. One of the best things to do in Cartagena is participate in a cooking class where you’ll learn the ins and outs of creating a delicious traditional Colombian meal.

Our cooking class took place in a kitchen tucked away on one of the gorgeous side streets of the Old Town. The instructors – two outgoing Colombian women – took us and a very small group through the process of creating several traditional meals.

We started with pureeing a fresh coconut to make coconut rice. Then we took a whole fish and rubbed it with herbs, seasonings, oil, and lime, and wrapped it in foil to cook. We pounded an entire block of sugarcane, breaking it into pieces to mix with water to create sugarcane lemonade. We prepared empanadas, and peeled and double fried plantains to make homemade patacones .

At the end of our 2-hour cooking class, we went into the restaurant dining room to sit back, relax, and savour our creations. Those Colombian women definitely knew what they were doing – this was one of the most delicious meals we ate in our entire time in Colombia.

Cooking masterclasses and workshops are available in other cities in Colombia, too – including in Bogota .

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

→ Recommended: Bazurto Market tour and cooking class in Cartagena

Eat tropical fruits at the markets in Medellin

A vendor at the Plaza Minorista fruit market in Medellin, Colombia.

Colombia is synonymous with tropical fruit – and there’s no better place in the country to sample the goods than Medellin. Fertile Antioquia Department is Colombia’s ‘fruit basket’, and Medellin is where farmers come to offload their exotic produce.

A guided tour of Medellin’s fruit markets is a great way to get a handle on the world of tropical fruits Colombia is known for. From humble stalls to humming wholesale markets, it’s a window onto a vital aspect of Colombian culture.

As well as familiar faces – bananas, avocados, plantains – unusual fruits such as lulo, maracuya, guayaba and mamoncillo. Juice them or throw them down whole – whichever way you slice it, a fruit-themed tour is a terrifically fun experience.

Don’t miss the Mayorista Central Market, the largest produce market in the city that accommodates thousands of vendors and serves customers from all over Colombia. Primarily outdoors, it’s made up of rows upon rows of small warehouses. Shoppers travelling on foot can explore the labyrinth of tarpaulin-covered stalls. 

My favourite market, the Plaza Minorista José María Villa opened in 1984 and houses around 3,000 vendors – many of whom have personalities as vibrant as the produce they’re selling!

Finally, the Placita de Flores flower market, the smallest and oldest of the trio with a history that goes back to 1881, has a wonderful array of fruit and other types of produce.

→ Recommended: Medellin exotic fruits tour

Try the tasting menu at Leo in Bogota – one of the best things to do in Colombia for gastronomes

A gastronomic experience in Colombia at Leo restaurant in Bogota.

You’ve no doubt heard stories about Colombia’s biodiversity – this country is said to be the second-most biodiverse country in the world behind only Brazil. What if I told you there’s a restaurant in Bogota where you can actually taste that biodiversity?

Leo is a fine dining restaurant in the Colombian capital that offers 7 to 13-course tasting menus. It’s helmed by celebrity chef Leonor Espinosa , proclaimed in 2022 as the World’s Best Female Chef. 

What makes her tasting menus interesting is that she utilises obscure ingredients sourced from the most far-flung corners of Colombia. Palm weevils, Santander ants and Amazonian coquindo oil are just a few of the many exotic foods she uses in a culinary concept she likes to call Ciclo-Bioma .

At the end of your meal, you’ll receive a tasting menu with a map detailing every ingredient used and where it was sourced from. It’s a fascinating insight into the country’s ecology and the creativity of a chef determined to showcase her country’s diversity.

In 2022, Leo was named #48 on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants (13 on Latin America’s 50 Best). If interesting food excites you, then booking a table at Leo in Bogota is a must.

By JB from Will Fly for Food

Have an unforgettable Colombian dining experience at the original Andres Carne de Res

A plate of Colombian steak at the famous Andres Carne de Res restaurant.

For a Colombian dining experience bordering on theatrical, don’t skip Andres Carne de Res. It’s anything but your typical restaurant, even for Colombians, who love maximum fun.

The original Andres Carne de Res (which means ‘Andres Beef’) in Chia, an hour north of bustling Bogota, is quite a spectacle. A sprawling space devoted to Colombians’ love of beef and excess, even the parking lot at Andres Carne de Res (Andres) is huge!

Expect to be enveloped by explosions of bright decor, loud music, dancing diners, enthusiastic employees, and large plates of delicious food at this Colombian institution.

Colombians visit Andres for special occasions such as birthdays. As a tourist, you don’t need any excuse except wanting to experience the best of Bogota . While steak is the main dish, the highlight of the menu is fun.

Anthony Bourdain fans and purists will want to visit the original Chia location, and it is a great time, but it isn’t the only Andres location anymore. The brand’s popularity has led to its expansion across the country – you can find restaurants in Cartagena, Medellin, and in downtown Bogota.

By Melinda from Mel On The Go

→ Recommended: Private transfer to Andres in Chia from Bogota

Stand in South America’s biggest plaza in Villa de Leyva

The wide open cobbled plaza in Villa de Leyva.

Villa de Leyva, voted ‘one of the most beautiful pueblos in Colombia’, is a wonderful day trip from Bogota and a must on your Colombia itinerary . It’s touristy, yes – but almost exclusively with Colombian tourists, which adds to the charming feel.

There are plenty of sights in town and in the surrounding area to keep you busy for a couple of days. The highlights of our visit were the archaeological site El Infiernito, the dinosaur remains, and the nearby artesanía village of Raquira.

But Villa de Leyva’s biggest attraction is right in the centre of town. The cobbled main square, Plaza Mayor de Villa de Leyva, is the biggest in Colombia and one of the largest in all of America, covering an incredible 150,000 square feet.

Every year, locals and international tourists gather for two grand festivals that take place in the square. El Festival del Viento y Las Cometas (the Wind and Kite Festival) is held in August and consists of a variety of kite contests in which competitors of all ages have an opportunity to showcase their ingenuity, creativity, and expertise. These categories include handmade kites, giant kites, and acrobatic stunts choreographed for synchronised flight.

The other is the Festival del Caballo (the Horse Festival) in October. We were lucky enough to visit during this festival. It’s a remarkable show featuring horses of all breeds from around the world. Afterwards you can get an up-close look at the horses and have a conversation with the riders.

By Babs from Mums on Flip Flops

→ Recommended: Villa de Leyva day trip from Bogota

Tour the incredible Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

Lights illuminate Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, one of the most unique things to do in Colombia.

One unusual day trip not to miss on any visit to Bogota and Colombia is the underground salt cathedral called Zipaquira.

The Roman cathedral is carved into the salt and rock 650 feet underground. The main nave is like nothing you have ever seen before. At 500 feet long and 72 feet high, it is seriously impressive.

An audio tour is included in the ticket price. Expect to spend 2-3 hours visiting the main nave and the many smaller chapels. The temperature inside is around a constant 57 degree Fahrenheit (14 degree Celsius), so remember to bring some warm clothes, even if you are visiting during the summer.

From Bogota, there is a direct bus from Terminal del Norte station which takes around 2 hours to reach Zipaquira. Alternatively, if travelling by car, the journey time is about 1 hour. Zipaquira is a popular tourist destination and a place of pilgrimage for locals, so try to avoid visiting on the weekend when it gets very busy.

By Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

→ Recommended: Group tour to Zipaquira with guaranteed daily departure

Enjoy an open-air spa at the El Totumo Mud Volcano

Two men sell items to tourists in front of El Totumo, a giant mud volcano accessed by a long ladder.

The Mud Volcano of Colombia (also called El Totumo) is an exciting natural wonder. Located near Loma de Arena, just an hour’s drive from Cartagena, this unique geological phenomenon is created by eruptions of heated mud from deep within the Earth’s core.

The mud is piping hot and highly acidic, but it has amazing therapeutic properties that are said to help with skin and joint ailments.

Visiting the Mud Volcano is a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else in Colombia. As you approach, the smell of sulfur is strong but inviting. You will be amazed when you see the steam rising from the pools of bubbling mud. You can take a dip in one of the nearby pools and let the hot mud embrace your body.

The mud is thermal, so it can be quite soothing.

Those who choose to take a plunge in the Vulcano’s mud pools should be aware of some safety precautions. It is best to wear appropriate footwear as the mud can be slippery (don’t let the same thing happen to you that happened to me – I ended up face down in the mud).

It’s important to remember that the mud is very hot and acidic, so you should take regular breaks and stay hydrated while soaking in the minerals. It can be harsh on bare skin if you enter the pools unprotected.

By Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel

→ Recommended: Tour to the mud volcano from Cartagena with lunch included .

Conquer the Paramillo del Quindio in Los Nevados National Park

A woman dressed in purple leggings hiking in Colombia's Los Nevados National Park.

If you’re up for a challenge during your trip to Colombia, you may want to try your hand trekking in Los Nevados National Park south of Medellin.

Located in the Colombian Andes just outside the popular town of Salento, most come here to trek through Cocora Valley while few venture further into the Paramillo. Trekking deeper brings you to stunning landscapes, views of volcanoes, and even glaciers.

To explore this area, you’ll have to tackle a multi-day hike. There are numerous routes available, including the popular three-day hike that summits Paramillo Del Quindio, an inactive volcano. Aside from breathtaking views of the canyons, craters, and mountains, you’ll be walking amongst a bunch of frailejones , funky fuzzy plants that play a major role in the water cycle of Colombia.

You’ll stay at mountain fincas (farms) in simple bunk-bed accommodations and enjoy hearty home-cooked breakfasts and dinners. A knowledgeable guide for the hike is mandatory as there is little to no signage and conditions can change quickly.

Before taking on this trek, ensure you have the right travel backpack that can also be used for hiking. You also absolutely need a good jacket, quick-dry clothing, and proper footwear. At the summit of the mountain, you’ll be freezing, but when you start and end the hike, you’ll be sweating – so layering is essential.

This might be a pretty challenging thing to do in Colombia and not really for beginner hikers, but it’s 1000% worth it!

By Nina from Where in the World is Nina?

Count the colours at the Caño Cristales ‘Rainbow River’

Red and yellow colours in the Cano Cristales rainbow river in Colombia.

One of the most unique Colombia experiences involves travelling deep into the Parque Nacional Natural Tinigua, accessible from La Macarena where flights to/from Bogota depart thrice weekly.

The Caño Cristales or ‘Crystal Channel’ – also known as the ‘liquid rainbow’ – is a natural phenomenon caused by blooming algae. Macarenia clavigera tinge the river bed and rock formations with hues of yellow, green, blue, black and red, giving the water hole and surrounding rapids an otherworldly appearance.

As well as beautiful waterfalls and rapids, you can observe circular depressions in the river. Known as ‘giant’s kettles’, these are formed by chunks of hard rock that make deep pits.

This amazing landscape can be explored on foot via a number of hiking trails and mirador lookouts that open to visitors at various times of year. To witness the most vivid array of colours, visiting during the rainy season, roughly June to November.

Have a wildlife encounter at the National Colombian Aviary in Baru

A toucan on a tree branch in the wild.

Visiting the National Aviary on Baru Island is one of the best things to do in Colombia with kids. This sprawling wilderness reserve is home to 22 habitats and almost 200 different species of parrots, flamingoes, peacocks and toucans from Colombia and around Latin America.

The aviary is very well set up for tourists, with marked walking trails, shaded rest areas, and regular ranger presentations at the information centre. There are also estuaries and lakes within the park where you can observe other wildlife.

The National Aviary is located on a peninsula under an hour by road from Cartagena. It is open 7 days a week. When visiting, you should also set aside a few hours for the nearby Playa Blanca, a beautiful white-sand beach and the only public swimming area within Rosario National Natural Park.

There are several clubs, resorts and restaurants on the beach where you can hire a sun lounge or grab a seafood lunch.

→ Recommended: Full-day tour Isla Baru for the National Aviary of Colombia and Playa Blanca

Trek in the world’s biggest wax palm forest in Tochecito

A woman stands on a path on a ridge in Tochecito, Colombia, surrounded by green mountains and tall palm trees.

While the Cocora Valley is the most popular place to walk amongst Colombia’s iconic wax palm trees, the protected sanctuary of Tochecito, further south of Salento, is a great alternative.

Like Cocora, Tochecito is home to thousands of the world’s tallest palm trees, some of which reach up to 200 feet (60 metres) tall. Tochecito is an off-the-beaten-track gem and actually has the biggest concentration of wax palm trees in the world.

There are at least 600,000 wax palms in the super-dense forest (compared to the 1,000-2,000 wax palms in the touristic Cocora). While many of the palms in Cocora have been damaged by cattle ranching, the healthy trees in Tochecito can live up to 200 years.

The area is accessible from Salento via an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike ride or by jeep or a trekking tour. After walking through the picturesque alleys of trees, finish the day with a game of tejo in Bar Los Amigos in Salento.

By Ines from Randomtrip

Get off the beaten track in the otherworldly Tatacoa Desert

Amber rock formations and cacti in Colombia's Tatcoa Desert.

Far beyond the major cities of Medellin and Bogota, the wild and remote Tatacoa Desert is definitely an off-the-beaten-track location in Colombia. Bearing some similarities to the Rainbow Mountain in Peru, it is the perfect destination for adventurous travellers looking for a unique hiking experience.

Despite its name, the Tatacoa Desert is not actually a desert – it is a dried-up tropical forest that looks like a desert. To many visitors, it is a landscape from another planet.

The best way to explore is by walking through the Red Desert ( Cuzco ), which offers various trails from where you can spot spiders, snakes, scorpions, lizards and eagles. There are many other creepy crawlies roaming around so you must protect yourself.

Remember the rust-coloured formations are composed of soft soil, not rock, so walking on them is strictly prohibited.

As well as hiking in the Red Desert, you can encounter more otherworldly landscapes with the help of a local guide, including the Grey Desert. Many visitors arrive with a view to camp out so they can do some stargazing during the evenings, and if you’re a space fan, you can visit the Tatacoa Observatory.

Don’t miss the Piscina Mineral, an oasis-like artificial pool where you can cool off amongst the dunes.

By Dan from Urban Abroad

→ Recommended: Private tour to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogota

Stand at the edge of the continent at Punta Gallinas

White sand dunes lead to the ocean at Punta Gallinas, an off the beaten track location in Colombia.

Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America, is located at the end of the rugged desert peninsula of La Guajira on the border of northern Colombia and Venezuela.

Getting there is an adventure in and of itself, and gives you a look at one of the most amazing landscapes in the region. For this reason, it is one of the more unique, adventurous and unusual things to do in Colombia.

It’s possible to arrange tour packages from Cartagena, Santa Marta, Riohacha and other cities on the Caribbean coast. It is also possible to do it mostly on your own.

To do this trip DIY, you’ll need to make your way to the tiny town of Cabo de la Vela in the desert. First, get to the city of Riohacha which can be reached by bus from Cartagena or Santa Marta or by flight from elsewhere in Colombia.

From there, you can take a collective taxi to the town of Uribia before finding 4×4 transportation across the desert to Cabo de la Vela. It’s worth stocking up on things like water in Uribia as they are scarcer and more expensive.

Once in Cabo de la Vela, you should be able to easily arrange a package to Punta Gallinas. Most include transportation, a tour of the surrounding area – including the amazing Taroa Sand Dunes that roll into the sea – overnight accommodations in a chinchorro or handmade hammock made by the local Wayuu Indigenous people, and meals.

Learn more about visiting this unique place in Colombia in this complete travel guide to Punta Gallinas .

→ Recommended: 3-day expedition to Punta Gallinas and Cabo de la Vela

Colombia trip essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Colombia. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Colombia using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa or a Health Declaration form for Colombia and apply for your documents online.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Colombia with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Book a safe and reliable private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Medellin , Bogota or Cartagena (prices start from $18 per group).

ESIM FOR COLOMBIA: Stay connected during your trip – pre-purchase an eSIM for Colombia and get online as soon as you arrive without having to visit a phone shop.

CAR HIRE: Use the Discover Cars website to compare prices and features across all the major car rental companies.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Colombia hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best day trips, city tours, Colombian cooking experiences and more.

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The Jetsetter Diaries

Best Places to Visit in Colombia – Travel Guide

by Asdghik Ashley Melkonian

Medellin Colombia

Table of Contents

SANTA MARTA

Tayrona national park, san andres & providencia, ciudad perdida, cano cristales, coffee triangle, cocora valley, salt cathedral of zipaquira, best places to visit in colombia: travel map, colombia travel safety tips, best time to visit colombia, colombia vaccinations, what is the most visited place in colombia, what should i see in colombia, is it safe to vacation in colombia, what is the nicest city in colombia.

Colombia is one of the most beautiful and diverse destinations in South America. After suffering from a dark and violent past, it is now emerging as an up-and-coming vacation spot for travelers. Some of the most dangerous cities in Colombia have transformed into safe and beautiful spots even for solo travelers. This list of the best places to visit in Colombia can help you plan an incredible trip.

The gateway to South America is on the mend after decades of turmoil and violence. It has emerged as a success story with a growing economy and a rich, diverse culture that is kept alive and kicking thanks to its warm, coffee-loving people.

After spending several months traveling to the best places to visit in Colombia, I’ve put together this detailed travel guide and important tips to know before visiting this stunning country.

The cities listed below are not in any order of preference. Colombia has so much to offer, so it’s up to you to decide what to include depending on the duration of your trip.

Best Places to Visit In Colombia Best Places to Visit in Colombia - Travel Guide

Top Major Cities To Visit In Colombia

Monserrate Bogota

The Athens of South America is also its capital and one of the best cities in Colombia. The bustling city sits high atop the Andes at an impressive 8,530 feet and is home to museums, art galleries, and well-preserved colonial houses.

68 indigenous groups reside in this ever-evolving metropolis where modern buildings coexist alongside charming, old neighborhoods like La Candelaria. There is an abundance of historic landmarks that offer a window into the past. Museums such as the Museo del Oro is a must-visit and an essential part of any Bogota travel itinerary.

Needless to say, the city caters to foodies, nature lovers, and art enthusiasts. There is definitely something for everyone here and many attractions to look forward to including the breathtaking views in Cerro de Monserrate.

Don’t miss out on the famous La Candelaria area where you can spot impressive graffiti and street art. In fact, graffiti is legal in Colombia, so if you’re a street art lover like myself, you will love roaming around these colorful streets.

Bogota Travel Tips: Bogota is a great place to start your trip. Most international flights fly into the capital, so I recommend starting off in Bogota and staying for 2 or 3 nights. You can easily tour the top sights in one condensed day or you can choose to stay longer to explore even more. Top places to visit in Bogota: Monserrate, La Candelaria, Bolivar Square, Museo Botero, Gold Museum, Usaquén Flea Market Where to stay in Bogota: Mid-range: Hotel bh Bicentenario Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá

Travelers craving a slice of Caribbean paradise must include this gem of a city in their Colombia travel itinerary. The weather here is hot and humid and invites you to unwind and soak up the tropical sun while sipping on your favorite cocktail.

Andalusian-style palaces and a well-preserved historic center complete with Spanish military architecture are shielded by an impressive wall that was designed to keep enemies at bay. The UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the best places to visit in Colombia and home to narrow cobblestone streets lined with cheerful yellow houses and beautiful churches as well as hotels and restaurants.

Beach lovers should definitely include Playa Blanca in their Cartagena travel plans. The pristine beach is easily accessible and offers more than just sun, sea, and sand. Visitors can rent a jet ski or embark on a boat trip to Rosario, some of the best Colombia Islands , where they can explore the stunning Caribbean beaches and mangrove tunnels.

Places to visit in Cartagena Colombia

Set your expectations before visiting Cartagena: Cartagena has gained so much popularity recently, that you could easily feel a little bit claustrophobic with the number of tourists in the walled city. You won’t really get a taste of the local culture here, because most things have become so commercialized for tourists.

For example: the women in traditional colorful dresses that carry the fruits on their head (Palenqueras) will approach you on every street to ask you for payment to take a picture with them.

Some travelers are flying directly in and out of the city without visiting other places in Colombia. I don’t recommend doing this, because Colombia is so much more than Cartagena. In fact, you can walk the whole area of the walled city in half a day. It is without a doubt a very charming part of the country and you shouldn’t miss out on it, but you will get more of a local experience in other cities.

Insider tip: Centenario Park is located right outside the walled city. You can spot monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and beautiful birds all over the park. If you can’t see the animals, walk up to one of the park rangers and tip him a few pesos. He will walk around with you and show you all the animals on the trees.

Playa Blanca Cartagena Colombia

Top places to visit in Cartagena: Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, Rosario Islands, Playa Blanca , Centenario Park Where to stay in Cartagena: Budget: Hostal 1811 Charming boutique hotel: Ananda Hotel Boutique – Hoteles Cosmos Luxury: Hotel Capilla del Mar

Comuna 13 Medellin

The City of Eternal Spring (one of my personal favorite places to visit in Colombia) has undergone a renaissance on all fronts and is now one of the best places to go in Colombia. No trip is complete without exploring a city that was once solely synonymous with violence, murder, and Pablo Escobar.

Medellin offers free walking tours where you can feast your eyes on the vibrant graffiti and treat your taste buds to delicious empanadas along the way. Comuna 13 offers a glimpse into the healing community where fresh food markets and dazzling murals adorn the walls and buildings.

Cable cars offer a different perspective and more panoramic views of this valley-based city and they can drop you off in Santo Domingo where more eye-catching street art and delicious food awaits you.

Foodies must include El Poblado in their Medellin travel itinerary. This lovely district or commune boasts an impressive selection of high-end restaurants run by Michelin Star chefs and trendy boutiques as well as coffee shops that serve the best cup of joe money can buy.

Medellin Travel Tips: 1. Don’t miss the free walking tour in Comuna 13. This district was once one of the most violent cities in the world. It has now transformed into street art heaven. The walking tour ends on a cute little rooftop cafe with panoramic views of the city and a quick salsa class.

2. Cable Cars in Medellin are used as a regular transportation method for locals who live on the hills and mountains around the city. You can access them with a metro card. Take the cable car all the way up to Santo Domingo in the afternoon. That way, you can enjoy the best sunset in Medellin from the top. Warning: this is quite a dangerous neighborhood, so don’t wander too far from the cable car area.

3. To learn about the history and dark past of Medellin, I recommend a visit to Museo Casa de la Memoria.

4. Plaza Botero is in the old quarter of Medellin. It’s like an open-air museum for world-renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. You can see several of his famous statues in the center. The surrounding area is a market for locals, which is a great place to try some of the local restaurants.

5. If you have some time, I recommend visiting Explora Park. It’s an impressive science museum with a nice aquarium and lots of interactive science games.

Best places to visit in Medellin , Colombia: Comuna 13, Plaza Botero, Museo Casa de la Memoria, Museum of Antioquia, Park Arvi, Explora Park, El Poblado Where to Stay in Medellin: – El Poblado is the most touristy town in Medellin. Most travelers stay there because it has some great accommodation options, restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs. However, you will see more foreigners than locals here. – Laureles is another great area to stay if you want more of a local feel. It’s cheaper than Poblado and still has restaurants and bars. They are catered more to locals than foreigners (which I love!). Budget: Los Patios Hostel Mid-range: The Click Clack Hotel Medellín Luxury: Medellin Marriott Hotel

Best Places to visit in Cali Colombia

The Rumba Capital is a magnet for Salsa lovers and a city with many layers and influences. Many locals here have African roots and it shows in the exotic dishes on offer at La Alameda. The city’s central market allows you to treat your taste buds to tamales as well as deep-fried bites made of plantain and stuffed with sizzling hot white cheese.

Cali offers cat lovers a treat in the form of a riverside park. Travelers can sample more delicious street food and take pictures of the various cat sculptures on display. Barrio San Antonio is lined with well-preserved Spanish colonial houses. It is a great place to unwind and indulge in craft beer before touring the city by bike.

Best Beach Towns & Islands To Visit In Colombia

Santa Marta is a charming little city and a great starting point for your trips to Tayrona National Park or La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City).

The region is home to organic coffee farms and a nature reserve where jaguars, brocket deer, and otters roam freely under the emerald green foliage. There is no shortage of pristine beaches either, and this includes El Rodadero where visitors can sample locally brewed rum and listen to some live music while basking under the Caribbean sun.

How to get from Cartagena to Santa Marta: The bus ride takes about 5 hours from Cartagena to Santa Marta with 2 or 3 rest stops. The most commonly known bus companies are Berlinas and MarSol with similar pricing between $12 to $14. I booked my bus ride through my hostel and they picked me up directly from my hostel the next morning.

Santa Marta Travel Tips: It’s good to use Santa Marta as a base to visit the famous places in Colombia such as Parque Tayrona, Ciudad Perdida, Minca, and Taganga. Where to Stay in Santa Marta: Budget: República Hostel Santa Marta Mid-range: Casa de Leda, a Kali Hotel

Parque Tayrona invites you to explore the vast jungle terrain where towering palm trees, colorful orchids, and fruit-bearing trees provide a sanctuary for animals like squirrels and monkeys as well as exotic birds and iguanas.

Tayrona has earned a prime spot in many Colombia South America travel guides and boasts more than 14 beaches including the hammock haven known as Cabo San Juan. The park is home to more than 350 bird species including white eagles and rainbow billed toucans, making it a popular bird-watching destination.

Tayrona has its fair share of golden beaches and some are more touristy than others.  Travelers can camp or simply soak up the sun in Bahia Concha or capture the tropical sunset with their camera in Playa La Piscina.

Parque Tayrona

Tayrona Park Travel Tips: 1. There are several local buses that go from Santa Marta to Tayrona. You can arrange one easily through your hotel.

2. The park opens from 8 AM to 5 PM, so if you’re not spending the night in the park, you have to make sure you’re back at the main entrance before 5 PM to catch the buses going back to Santa Marta.

3. Plan to spend at least 1 or 2 nights in the Park to really enjoy the experience.

4. Another option is to go horseback riding through the jungle to reach the main beach. Once you enter the park, you will see some locals with horses and you can negotiate the price with them.

Tayrona Park Colombia

My experience: I did a day trip because I was limited with my time there and it was a big mistake. The walk through the jungle to reach the most famous beach area takes 2-3 hours. Then, you have to walk the same way to go back to the entrance. That’s why I decided to go horseback riding on the way back. Thankfully, I know how to ride, because we passed through some very narrow pathways with the horse and the guy that was leading the way was speeding in the jungle. If you never went horseback riding, I don’t recommend trying it here for the first time!

Camping Tayrona Park

Where to stay in Parque Tayrona: Camping options are available around the main beach. You don’t have to book in advance for these. Here are some other options: Budget: The Journey Hostel Mid-range: Villa Maria Tayrona

400 miles northwest of Colombia, the postcard-perfect islands of San Andres and Providencia offer visitors the chance to explore the Afro-Caribbean vibes that are unique to this region.

Providencia is a popular snorkeling and diving destination with plenty of tranquil beaches to choose from. The island is sprinkled with well-preserved colonial houses and small charming restaurants that serve an array of fresh seafood every day. Don’t miss a visit to the famous island of Cajo Cangrejo.

Downtown San Andres is a magnet for shoppers thanks to its duty-free stores where visitors can indulge in a bit of retail therapy before exploring the island via golf cart. Island highlights include the towns of La Loma and San Luis as well as the pirate-themed Morgan’s Cave.

Providencia Colombia

Where to Stay in San Andres: República Hostel San Andres

Colombia has many hidden gems and one of them happens to be Palomino. This sleepy fishing town boasts a pristine beach that attracts surfers, seafood fans as well as tubing enthusiasts.

Here, the lively Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta jungle and its river flirt with the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Palomino is home to incredible tropical sunsets and great barracudas. It is known for its hostels and strategic location for those who want to explore La Guajira and the northern Caribbean deserts.

Where to Stay in Palomino: Budget: Finca Escondida Mid-range: La Jorará Luxury: Makao

Where To Go In Colombia For Nature & Adventure Lovers

ciudad perdida colombia

The Sierra Nevada mountains harbor a hidden gem in the name of Ciudad Perdida or Teyuna. Hiking to this once lost city takes you through an Indiana Jones-esque adventure deep in the jungle terrain.

The 27-mile hike to the ancient ruins involves climbing more than 1200 steps and offers stunning views of the mountain range that was once home to the mysterious Tairona Civilization. The treasures left behind by the Tairona are on display at the local Gold Museum in Santa Marta.

Guatape from Medellin

They say good things come in small packages. Guatape is the sole definition of a quaint, technicolor town that is best known for Piedra del Peñol. The towering monolith of a rock offers panoramic views of the artificial lake. Visitors can go on a leisurely boat ride to learn more about the history of the region.

The cobblestone street known as La Calle del Recuerdo showcases the town’s love and dedication for zocalos. These fresco-like panels add a touch of personality to each building. They are used by the locals to advertise things like bakeries and sewing shops. Hiking and trekking through the emerald green hills allow you to explore the forest reserves and hidden waterfalls.

Things to do in Guatape

Guatape Travel Tips: You can go to Guatape from Medellin as a day trip or decide to stay a couple of nights. It’s very easy to go back and forth with the local buses.

Caño Cristales

Parque Nacional Natural Sierra de La Macarena is a must-visit if you are in Colombia between June and November. The park is home to The River of Five Colors. There is a natural phenomenon that paints the riverbed in an array of rainbow colors.

Caño Cristales is remarkable to witness and is definitely worth the hike. The area looks like a real-life painting and deserves to be crowned as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colombia. La Macarena’s national park is home to more than 400 bird species. It boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem where savannahs and rainforests create a haven for cougars, iguanas, monkeys, and other native Colombian wildlife species.

Amazonas Colombia

Very few places on earth can rival the vibrant Amazon rainforest and its untamed river. The tropical gateway to the lungs of the earth is none other than Leticia.

The city is a tourism and commercial hub. Visitors can treat their taste buds to freshly caught pirarucu fish before exploring the surrounding nature reservations and meeting the indigenous people who sell handcrafted souvenirs while sharing stories about their culture and beliefs. There is no shortage of activities here including tree climbing, kayaking, and bird watching.

Isla de Los Micos is one of many Colombian tourist attractions in the region and home to more than 5000 squirrel monkeys. Puerto Nariño is not to be missed either. This ecological community is traffic-free and more serene compared to Leticia. It is a great place to witness great ecotourism initiatives unfold in real-time.

Where to Stay in Amazonas: Palmayacu – Refugio Amazónico La Ceiba, Amazonas

Bogota to Cocora Valley

You can’t leave Colombia without having the best coffee in the world! Nothing says Colombia like the famous Coffee Triangle in the central Andes. The fertile volcanic soil and a cool, wet climate give birth to a sea of ripe red berries during harvest season.

It’s called the Coffee Triangle, because it’s made up of 3 neighboring cities: Pereira, Armenia, and Manizales.

Coffee lovers unsure about what to do in Colombia will discover that this region is not to be missed. Family-owned farms offer visitors a chance to sample the best coffee while learning more about the history of these flavorful beans. Exploring the regions of Risaralda, Caldas, and Quindío on horseback is a popular option. This evergreen landscape is also home to a charming village called Salento.

Coffee Triangle Travel Tips: 1. Stay in Salento or Pereira to explore the area. You can use either city as a base to take tours and also visit Cocora Valley. 2. If you’re a coffee lover like me, don’t miss out on a coffee tasting tour. I recommend a visit to Hacienda Bruselas with colombiancoffeeadventures.com

Cocora Valley Colombia

Home to Colombia’s national tree – the tallest wax palm trees in the world. White cotton candy clouds merge with the steep emerald hills of the Andes, creating the perfect backdrop for hiking and picnics. It’s one of the most impressive places to visit in Colombia.

The surreal 200-foot trees are located in Los Nevados National Natural Park. An abundance of rivers and creeks help irrigate the neighboring farmlands and provide much-needed water to villages and cities.

Cocora Valley Travel Tips: You can visit Cocora Valley as part of your Coffee Triangle trip. Read my detailed guide on visiting Cocora Valley with lots of recommendations on where to stay.

Off The Beaten Path Places To Visit In Colombia

Las Lajas Colombia

The river canyon near Ipiales harbors a stunning gothic cathedral that took decades to build. The history of this sanctuary is rooted in legend and dates back to 1754. Many tourists and pilgrims flock to the site where a number of miracles supposedly took place.

The fairytale location of La Lajas offers panoramic views of the Guitara Rivera and the surrounding canyon. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive. It features an exposed back wall where a woman and her daughter reportedly spotted an image of the Virgin Mary all those centuries ago.

SALT CATHEDRAL OF ZIPAQUIRA Best Places to Visit in Colombia - Travel Guide

Experiencing the best of Colombia takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to this remarkable underground cathedral. Just northeast of Bogota, the fully functioning place of worship welcomes around 600,000 visitors every year, and for good reason. A series of underground tunnels allow your anticipation to build as you finally reach the subterranean marvel.

Purple lights help illuminate the basilica dome. The hanging cross once belonged to the miners who helped build the original sanctuary back in the 1950s. Almost everything in this place is carved out of the surrounding salt rock including the basilica and the intricately carved statues.

It’s located around 2 hours away from Bogota. You can take a tour, local bus or train to reach the cathedral.

LA GUAJIRA Colombia Best Places to Visit in Colombia - Travel Guide

The land of desert dunes and pink flamingos offers a change of scenery and a chance to support the Wayuu tribe by purchasing their handmade goods while learning more about their resistance to the occupation.

La Guajira is a popular kite-surfing destination and home to a Flamingo sanctuary where visitors can go on boat trips across four lagoons. It is also home to Maciura National Park and Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point on the continent where sand dunes and mangroves paint a surreal landscape that is unlike any other region in Colombia.

Things to Know Before Your Trip

Is colombia safe to travel to.

The birthplace of Shakira has plenty to offer in terms of landscapes and activities but there are certain things that every tourist should know before making the trip. For example, is it safe to travel to Colombia? This question in particular may have crossed the minds of many who are familiar with the country’s dark history.

The 2016 peace treaty between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces in the country has definitely opened the door for a safer Colombia. However, street crime and pickpocketing remain an issue, and so travelers need to be vigilant especially when traveling on their own. Colombia safety guidelines issued by a number of countries including the U.S and the U.K offer regular updates concerning border areas and other regions that are marked as unsafe for tourists.

If you read some of the travel warnings you might be put off from visiting the country, but my advice is totally different.

Yes, there is a lot of petty crime in Colombia especially targeting tourists at night. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel there. If you take some precautions and read about the common scams, you’ll be fine. Some people who never visited can assume the worst like you’re going to get kidnapped or killed. That’s not something you should be afraid of. Just remember that Colombia’s dark past has created some bad media and given it this reputation.

As a solo female traveler, I spent 2 months visiting so many different cities, using public transportation and roaming around by myself with no issues at all. Having said that, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take extra precautions during your Colombia vacation.

Colombia has a bad reputation for violence and drug trafficking. It suffered a lot during the 90s because of the cartels, but it has come such a long way since then. As long as you are careful and informed, you can enjoy a very safe trip to Colombia.

Travelers are advised not to wear anything flashy or valuable such as expensive watches and jewelry. This is basic common sense and can be applied to other countries as well. Wandering off the grid is also not recommended, and neither is accepting cigarettes or drinks from strangers.

The safest cities in Colombia are definitely worth the trip. There is no shortage of sun toasted beaches and lush green forests to choose from. A trip to Colombia is also not complete without dipping your toes in the sapphire waters of the Caribbean and going on a coffee tasting tour in the Andes mountains.

1. Every city in Colombia is different. The cities that are filled with lots of tourists are relatively safer than others. Cartagena is a hot spot for international tourists, so no matter what time you go out, you’re always surrounded by other travelers and you don’t stand out from the crowd. Bogota, for example, is a different story. It’s a huge city and most of the time you are surrounded by locals. It’s easier for pickpockets to spot the tourists.

2. Don’t walk around with an expensive camera. You can still carry it with you in a bag or backpack, just don’t flash it around visibly so you don’t become a target.

3. Don’t stand on busy streets with a smartphone in your hand. You will be an easy target for people on scooters to snatch your phone. If you’re using Google Maps to navigate, just look up the directions and then put your phone away somewhere safe and not easily accessible.

4. Use a cross bag with a zipper. Make sure to wear it around your neck and put your hand on it for extra safety when walking in crowded areas.

5. Take Uber or other transportation apps instead of public taxis. It’s safer and more cost-efficient because some of the taxi drivers will try to overcharge you as a tourist.

6. Don’t walk too much after dark. If you’re out having drinks, it’s better to take a taxi home even if your hotel is nearby.

7. Take extra precautions in bars and clubs. This is going to sound like some very basic advice, but don’t accept drinks from strangers. There have been several cases of people getting drugged in clubs and waking up in their hotel without their cash or cameras. A common scam is that some men are approached by beautiful local women who pretend to party with them and spike their drinks to steal their cash.

8. Don’t carry too much cash or official documents. Most places accept credit cards anyway.

9. Worst-case scenario: if someone does try to mug you, do not fight it. Give him whatever he wants and let him leave. If you try to fight, it can get violent and you will get hurt. A lot of times these guys have their friends waiting around behind the corner, so you can be outnumbered.

Here are 32 common travel scams in Colombia and how to avoid them.

Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Colombia is very diverse and the weather varies throughout the country. The best time to go to Colombia depends on the region you intend to visit. Being neighbors with the equator has blessed the country with different microclimates. For example, the Amazon region is hot and humid compared to the colder climate in Bogota.

Colombia is known for its tropical climate, so the ideal time to visit the country is typically between December and March. This is also peak tourist season and a surge in prices occurs as a result. However, less rainfall makes it possible to take part in many outdoor activities such as trekking and whale watching.

There are no mandatory vaccinations you need to take before visiting Colombia. If you want to be extra cautious, you can decide whether or not to take them depending on the nature of your trip. Here’s a great resource to help you decide: Colombia CDC recommendations .

For travelers interested in visiting the Amazon region including Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park and Tayrona National Park vaccination against yellow fever is recommended. Travelers are advised to get this vaccine ten days before visiting any of the country’s Amazon reserves.

Hepatitis A and Typhoid fever vaccines are not mandatory, and neither are Malaria pills, but they are recommended by the CDC depending on the areas you will be visiting.

I personally did not take any vaccinations or malaria pills and I was fine throughout my trip. If you choose not to take any vaccinations, just be cautious not to drink tap water, pay extra attention to hygiene when eating street food, and get a good bug spray for outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Colombia:

The most visited places in Colombia are Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, Tayrona Park, and Santa Marta.

The best places to see in Colombia are: 1. Cartagena 2. Medellin 3. Cocora Valley 4. The Coffee Triangle 5. Tayrona Park 6. San Andres Island 7. Playa Blanca & Rosario Islands 8. Caño Cristales 9. Guatape 10. The Amazon Jungle

Yes, it is safe to vacation in Colombia if you take the right precautions. Leave your valuable belongings at home and always research the city you’re visiting for safety tips. When it’s dark, it’s best to take a taxi back to your hotel instead of walking.

The nicest cities in Colombia to visit are: 1. Medellin 2. Cartagena 3. Guatape 4. Salento

places to visit in colombia

15 Very Best Places to Visit in Colombia

If you need some help planning your trip to Colombia, we’ll help you narrow down your options. From coffee plantations to tropical beaches and colorful cities, these are the 12 very best places to visit in Colombia!

15 Very Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Before I even get started on this Colombia guide, let’s get something out of the way.

Making a list of the best places to visit in any country is kind of silly. “Best” is relative. What might make my “best places to visit in Colombia” list might not make yours.

Plus, it’s kind of like asking a parent to pick a favorite child. I love a lot of places in Colombia, and narrowing down the options to just a few is hard!

If you’ve started planning a trip to Colombia, you’ve probably realized by now that there are a LOT of great places to add to your Colombia itinerary .

Colombia is one of the most diverse places in South America, filled with posh cities, gorgeous beaches, and lots of jungles. Unless you have tons of time, it’s hard to see and do it all.

So, to help you plan your trip, I’m going to give you my list of the very best places to visit in Colombia. My list probably won’t perfectly match yours, but hopefully, it can give you some ideas on what places you might want to check out while visiting Colombia.

two women in colorful clothing walk down a street in Cartagena

If I were forced to pick my absolute, top favorite, best place to visit in Colombia, it’d be Cartagena.

The city is definitely not everybody’s cup of tea. The beaches aren’t that great, it’s super hot and humid, and there are always people trying to sell you stuff on the street.

But the city has history galore.

The old city wall, the stories of pirate attacks, and the fortress standing over the historic center all make it feel like you are walking through history. Cartagena also has some of the best Spanish colonial architecture in Colombia (and South America).

Besides history, Cartagena is one of my favorite cities in Colombia for great nightlife, year-round festivals, and excellent restaurants. It’s  one of Colombia’s safest cities for travelers  — especially if you stick to the historic center or the Bocagrande neighborhood.

Rosario Islands

The beach with palm trees in the Rosario Islands

Sticking to the coast, the next area on my list of best places to visit in Colombia is the Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario).

Located about an hour from Cartagena, the islands are part of a national park and offer the gorgeous Caribbean island experience that Cartagena is sorely missing.

The islands weren’t always part of a national park, and as such, most have small homes and hotels. The beaches here aren’t as beautiful as those on the nearby Isla Baru, but they are also way less crowded. If you like snorkeling or diving, you can also do that here.

I personally recommend booking an overnight stay on the islands. You have a limited number of options, but there are a few hostels. You’ll also have a chance to see the bioluminescent phytoplankton in the lagoon, or you can book a tour of the mangroves.

Volcan de Lodo El Totumo

I’ll be honest, at first glance, the Volcan de Lodo El Totumo (aka the Mud Volcano) can feel a bit like a tourist trap. But before you pass judgment and skip over this kitschy looking tour, hear me out.

You will never experience anything so weird as the feeling of floating in a seemingly bottomless volcano of mud, and for me, that’s why it’s one of the best places to visit in Colombia. Seriously. Add in a bunch of mud-covered strangers, locals offering mud massages, and the inability to keep your balance in the muddy pit, and I guarantee you will be laughing by the time you get out.

All that being said, there are a few ways to cut down on the annoying tourist trap feeling.

First, just accept that you will be tipping everyone at the mud volcano. For the locals, this is their livelihood. From the kid watching your stuff to the lady aggressively helping you wash off the mud, everyone will be expecting a tip.

Second, if you have a larger group, consider booking your own taxi instead of going on a tour. Booking your own private transportation can help you time it so that you get there before or after the tour bus rush (early morning or late afternoon).

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park, Colombia.

If you are looking for the best beaches to visit in Colombia, head to Tayrona National Park, near Santa Marta.

The Cabo San Juan de Guia beach is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in the country. And other than beaches, the park is rife with lush jungles and crystal clear Caribbean waters.

What makes Tayrona unique and one of the best places to visit in Colombia is also what makes many travelers skip it. The park has not only a max capacity of people allowed in each day but also a fairly steep entrance fee.

The park also closes sometimes for a month or more per year at the request of the local indigenous groups to help prevent and heal the damage caused by excess tourism.

If you are going to Tayrona, I recommend staying overnight. Your options are basically hammocks or tent camping — but if you have a few extra hundred dollars to spend, there are a few cabins as well.

A woman lounging in a hammock in Palomino, Colombia

Years ago, when I first visited Palomino, Colombia, I would have recommended it above Tayrona National Park. That’s how much I loved the endless white-sand beaches and the relaxed, small-town feel.

Years ago, though, Palomino had just started becoming popular on Colombia’s backpacker trail.

Today, while I still think Palomino is a fantastic place to visit, it’s for different reasons.

Skipping over Tayrona is no longer an option because Palomino Beach is less of a peaceful place and more of a party destination.

This hippy, laid back town is a backpacker’s paradise with lots of hostel options, cheap, tasty food, and super affordable day tours surf lessons.

Besides hanging out at the beach, the best thing to do in Palomino is tubing on the river. For a few dollars, you can rent an inner tube, grab a moto-taxi ride up the river, and then spend a few hours slowly drifting downstream through the Colombian jungle.

the sand dunes at La Guajira, Colombia

If you want to see something completely different along Colombia’s Caribbean coast, I’d suggest checking out La Guajira.

Located east of Santa Marta, this section of Colombia is known for deserts and sand dunes; it feels far removed from the lush, green jungles of Tayrona.

There are several things to do and see in La Guajira that make it one of my best places to visit in Colombia.

Kitesurfing is really popular here, and it’s a great place to learn. It’s also a popular place for bird-watching. The sand dunes and beaches are fun too, whether you like dune-buggies or just soaking up the sun.

This part of Colombia is also home to one of the larger indigenous tribes of the country: the Wayuu. Those bright, colorful bags you see for sale basically everywhere in the country? The Wayuu are the people who make them. If you want to support the local community, consider buying a bag here instead of back in Bogota or Medellin.

Fair warning, if you do make it this far off the beaten track in Colombia, be prepared for no WiFi and definitely no hot showers.

a couple sit on a bench overlooking the city of Bogota

Moving away from the coast, let’s talk about some of Colombia’s cities. Bogotá, the capital, is definitely on my list of best places to see, and not just because there is a good chance you’ll end up flying into or out of the city.

Bogotá is the thriving metropolis of Colombia. It has some of the country’s best nightclubs, restaurants, and museums, along with the historic La Candelaria, the vibrant heart of the city.

Many locals will tell you that, while they prefer Cartagena as one of the best places to visit in Colombia—and Bogotá as one of the worst—living in Colombia is the exact opposite.

Bogota is the place to be.

If you’re into art, you have to see the Botero Museum. Are you a foodie? Bogotá has three of the  best restaurants in Latin America  and one restaurant on the World’s Best Restaurant list.

Want to enjoy a seriously good party? Bogotá’s nightclubs are some of the best in South America, with the nightclub Theatron earning the title of the best LGBTQ club in Latin America.

The best time to schedule in a visit to Bogotá during your Colombia trip would be on the weekend. Saturday, enjoy a few museums in La Candelaria, and an excellent restaurant dinner before heading out to one of the city’s nightclubs.

The next day, wake up just in time to catch the end of the city’s famous Sunday ciclovía, a weekly event that closes down many of the city’s major roads for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy.

Villa de Leyva

The central square in Villa de Leyva

For a small-town escape from Bogotá, I always recommend Villa de Leyva as one of the best places to visit in Colombia.

Located a few hours from Bogotá, Villa de Leyva is not quite close enough for a day trip, but it’s the perfect distance for a weekend getaway.

The town is gorgeous, with white-washed buildings, a massive central square, and cobblestone streets. There are also tons of nice restaurants, art galleries, and local handicraft stores.

While Villa de Leyva is an excellent option for a quiet, peaceful weekend, it also has a much different vibe if you visit during one of the town’s many yearly festivals.

Just imagine—thousands of people lining the cobblestone streets to celebrate the New Year, flying kites for the annual kite festival in August, or carrying candles during the Festival de Luces in December!

Skyline view of Medellin, Colombia

Another one of the must-see Colombian cities is definitely Medellín. It has a lot to offer, from consistently incredible weather to some of the friendliest people you’ll meet in Colombia.

Known as one of the biggest digital nomad hotspots in South America, Medellín is one of the best places to visit in Colombia for a few weeks of working or studying. You can find plenty of affordable vacation rentals , hostels , and coworking spaces here.

There are also a lot of good quality Spanish schools and salsa schools.

But my favorite thing about Medellín is how easy it is to reach all the small towns nearby. You can easily take a day trip to Guatapé and climb the famous El Peñol rock. Cocorná is another little town option with some of the best  paragliding options in Colombia .

If you don’t want to really leave the city, take a tour of La Comuna 13. This local neighborhood in Medellín was once ruled by cartels but is now best known for incredible street art.

Hiking in the Corcora Valley, Colombia

Unless you’re on a visit in Colombia for a week or less, skipping over the coffee region is basically blasphemy. And that’s coming from someone who doesn’t even drink coffee.

Colombian’s are very proud of their coffee, and the Coffee Triangle is a definite must-visit. Picking just one place in the coffee region to visit can be hard, however. For most visitors, Salento is probably the best option

The town of Salento itself is small, quaint, and colorful. But fair warning: it can get a bit chilly, especially compared to the lower coffee triangle cities like Armenia.

In town, you can find lots of hostels and some boutique-style hotels. I recommend not leaving until you have tried at least one local restaurant’s trout dish. The trout from this region of Colombia is delicious, and pretty much every place in town serves an excellent meal of it.

The Cocora Valley

Salento

Outside Salento, the Corcora Valley is what really puts this area on my “best places to visit in Colombia” list. This valley is home to the  world’s tallest palm trees , and I promise you will be blown away by their size.

The Valley is also one of my favorite places to hike in all of Colombia, and maybe all of South America. There are a variety of hiking options from short, hour-long hikes to all-day treks. If you aren’t so much into hiking, there are also horseback riding tours available.

Bonus: there are lots of fantastic coffee farms nearby where you can stay overnight, learn about how coffee is made, and basically just relax.

If you want to see the Amazon jungle, Leticia is your best option in Colombia.

Sitting right on the border, you can easily see parts of the Brazilian and Peruvian Amazon jungle with day trips from Leticia.

The city itself isn’t much to rave about. There are a few nice restaurants and a good market. From Leticia though, you can book both day trips and overnight tours into the jungle.

Popular trip options include visits to local villages, piranha fishing, a stop at “Monkey Island,” and treks through the jungle.

If you are really lucky, you’ll get a chance to see the famous Amazon Pink River Dolphins!

For adventure sport lovers, San Gil is a must-visit. It’s called the adventure sports capital of Colombia for good reason. Here you can find everything from white water rafting to paragliding to bungee jumping.

The town itself is located in a beautiful region of Colombia with lush forests all around. The canyons and rivers nearby are where most adventure sports options can be found. Tours and adventure sports excursions can be easily booked from a number of companies in town.

Caño Cristales

Getting to Caño Cristales can be quite the journey. The river is definitely off the beaten path. There are also some restrictions on when and how you can visit. If you time it right though, a visit to Caño Cristales is a chance to see one of the country’s best natural wonders.

Nicknamed the Liquid Rainbow, the Caño Cristales river is known for its beautiful range of colors—red, blue, yellow, green, and more. The colors are actually a combination of aquatic plants that bloom and grow into vibrant displays.

The best time to visit is just after the rainy season.

Ciudad Perdida

This famous archaeological site is located in the mountains near Santa Marta. It is accessible via a multi-day hike with most treks lasting 4-6 days. Many companies offer guided treks to the ancient city and tours can be booked both in Santa Marta and Palomino.

Be prepared for intense tropical heat, lots of bugs, and plenty of mud! If you can survive all that, you will be rewarded with a nearly empty archaeological treasure.

The Ciudad Perdida – or Lost City – is thought to have been built around 800CE. This makes the site over 600 years older than Machu Picchu.

Come Find Your Own Best Places in Colombia

So that’s my list of what I consider to be some of the best places to visit in Colombia. It’s not an all-encompassing list. I’m sure I’ve left a few places off that are just as good.

The fact is that you could spend a decade living here and still only see a fraction of this remarkable country. The places on my “still have to see” list far exceed the places I’ve already checked out.

I still haven’t been to the Pacific Coast of Colombia, where people rave about the whale watching opportunities. I have been to the Amazon but still have so much to explore. My brief trip to Cali wasn’t enough time to really explore the city or even take a salsa lesson.

This list of mine is just a place to get you started on your visit. If you really want to find the best places to visit in Colombia, you just have to come to explore Colombia yourself.

And don’t forget to read up on our tips for visiting Colombia  before you do!

Places to Visit in Colombia FAQs

What is the most beautiful part of colombia.

The Rosario Islands are one of the most beautiful places in Colombia.

What is the best part of Colombia to stay in?

Cartagena is my favorite place to stay in Colombia.

What is the #1 tourist attraction in Colombia?

The Caño Cristales is the top tourist attraction in Colombia.

Where should I go for the first time in Colombia?

I recommend visiting Cartagena for your first time in Colombia.

What is the safest part of Colombia to visit?

Cartagena is one of the safest places to visit in Colombia.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Jeremy Scott Foster

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places to go visit in colombia

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Best Places to visit in Colombia: Ultimate Travel Guide

places to go visit in colombia

Also referred to as the ‘Gateway of South America’, Colombia is a country nested in the northwestern end of South America. Colombia is a unique tourist escape and is known for being the magnificent land of dense Amazon rainforests, peaceful hills, vibrant beaches, and friendly neighborhoods.

Colombia’s diverse population comprises European and Anglo-Colombian residents. Besides breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, Colombia is globally recognized for its coffee, emeralds, biodiversity, music and entertainment, and well-preserved colonial architecture.

Best Places to visit in Colombia

Every year Colombia welcomes thousands of tourists and offers them many unforgettable experiences. From looking past, the historical horizons of the colonial museums in Bogota to embracing the modern-day developments of the up-and-coming Medellín, Colombia will take you on a journey like never before.

To make your next trip to this beautiful destination even more remarkable, we’ve listed some of the best places to visit in Colombia:

Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Bogotá- the cultural capital.

Bogotá- The Cultural Capital

The largest city in Colombia is also the country’s capital, Bogotá is easily one of the most prominent Colombia tourist attractions. Safe to say, Bogotá is exactly like how it is shown in the movies. From colorful and vibrant neighborhoods built on hilly roads to local art galleries on the city streets, Bogotá is the epitome of urban charm and modern sophistication. A diverse population of 8 million keeps the city alive and cheerful.

Main Attractions

  • Gold Museum:  Take a historical dive into Colombian heritage and witness pre-Colombian gold artifacts and ancient jewels.
  • La Candelaria:  A unique checkpoint for tourists to experience the beauty of Colombian architecture, art galleries, and museums.
  • Mount Monserrate:  Take an eagle view of Bogotá from the top of a mountain.

Best time to visit:  December-February, July-August

Best places to eat : Santa Fe Café and Restaurant, Storia D’amore, Omnia,Cantina La 15. 

Cartagena: A coastal colony

Cartagena: A coastal colony

Situated on the Carribean Coast of Colombia is a colonized retreat that will transport you back to a different era. What makes this city one of the top places to visit in Colombia is it’s 13km stretch of colorful, well-maintained, preserved colonial architecture, narrow aesthetic streets, and vibrant restaurants and eateries makes it a unique Colombian destination. Cartagena has a lot to offer to its tourists, from scenic views of the Carribean sea to the ancient walls that protected the city from pirates.

Main Attractions:

  • Castillo San Felipe de Barajas:  Enjoy picturesque views of the Carribean sea as well as the city.
  • Unwind on the white sandy beaches of  Rosario Islands  and take a dive in the crystal-clear sea waters of the beaches.

Best time to visit:  December-April Best places to eat:  Maria, Misia, Moshi, La Mulata, Carmen Restaurant, El Bistro.

Medellín: A pleasant escapade

Medellín: A pleasant escapade

Nothing attracts tourists better than a pleasantly amiable climate. And what other Colombian city can do this better than Medellín? Infamous in the 90s for being the headquarters for the most notorious drug cartel in the world to being a rich cultural vacation spot, Medellín has come a long way. Lush green eco-parks, cable cars, metros, and libraries make this iconic destination even more explorable. Other than the subtle comforts, Medellín also offers the best nightlife in Colombia.

  • Plaza Botero:  Witness the finest works of celebrated artist Fernando Botero and admire the colossal sculptors.
  • Parque Arvi:  Hop on a cable car for an adventure-filled evening at the Parque Arvi natural reserve and enjoy refreshing activities like hiking and cycling.
  • Communa 13:  Blend in with the city’s colorful neighborhoods and interact with Colombian locals.

Best time to visit:  December-March, July-August Best places to eat:  Real eatery, La Pampa Parrilla Argentina, Mezcla, 360 Rooftop Bar, The Market, Cala Roca.

Tayrona National Natural Park: Haven on Earth

Tayrona National Natural Park: Haven on Earth

A haven for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers, this serene destination is one of Colombia’s most recommended places to visit. Home to some of the world’s most magnificent white sand beaches, the Tayrona National Natural Park will be a notable addition to your itinerary. One of the few destinations in the world where lush green mountains meet white sand beaches, a visit to Tayrona National Natural Park is a great side trip while exploring Colombia.

Main attractions:

  • Cabo San Juan:  Experience this iconic beach’s culmination of lush green forests and serene crystal-clear waters.
  • Pueblito:  Travel back in time as you explore the ruins of the old Tayrona village hidden in the forest mountains.
  • Playa Cristal:  Swim, snorkel and boat in the calm waters of this beautiful beach.

Best time to visit:  February to November Best places to eat:  Agua De Rio Cafe & Bistro, Divanga Bar Restaurant, Restaurante Bar Babaganoush, Pachamama, Bitacora Restaurante.

Eje Cafetero: Coffee Lovers Unite!

Eje Cafetero: Coffee Lovers Unite!

The name is enough to tell you that this region in Colombia is the third-largest coffee producer in the world. Eje Cafetero is the sole reason why Colombia is known for its coffee. Translated to English as ‘coffee axis’, Eje Cafetero is home to a growing number of coffee plantations that offer luxury farm stays, tours, and tastings to the tourists of Colombia.

  • Salento:  Visit the beautiful Cocora Valley for breathtaking views and visit the colorful streets of Salento’s Historic Center.
  • Armenia:  Another haven for coffee lovers, Armenia is home to some of the biggest coffee farms in the world. While visiting, tourists can also try out mouthwatering local cuisine in Colombia.
  • Pereira:  Home to diverse animal species and also the Bolívar Square where you can enjoy local Colombia street food and cultural spots.

Best time to visit:  June-August Best places to eat:  Hacienda Venecia Coffee Farm (Manizales), Casa de Lola García (Pereira), Helena Adentro Café y Cocina (Salento), Café Jesús Martín (Chinchiná).

Colombia might have a controversial history, but it has made a name for itself in the global travel and tourism sector over the years. From Bogotá’s vibrant neighborhoods, Cartegena’s colonized coastal areas, Medellín’s pleasant climate to Eje Cafetero’s coffee plantations, Colombia offers an array of distinctive experiences to its visitors. Whether you seek adventure, cultural heritage, pleasant climatic tourist escapades or just the best coffee in the world, Colombia is where you should be.

Places to visit in Colombia FAQS

What is the capital of colombia.

The capital of Colombia is the cultural city of Bogotá.

What makes Medellín a notable destination?

Medellín is known for its pleasant climate. But what makes it special is the transition from being the most violent city in the world in the 90s to being a calm and vibrant tourist destination.

What are some of the things Colombia is known for?

Colombia is known for its coffee, beaches, lush green forests, emeralds and biodiversity.

What is the best time to visit Bogotá?

As a result of its high altitude, Bogotá enjoys a pleasant climate all year. Tourists prefer the dry months of December through February and July through August.

What are the best places to eat in Cartagena?

The local cuisine in Colombia varies from region to region. Here are some of the best places to eat in Cartagena: 1. Maria 2. Misia 3. Moshi 4. La Mulata 5. Carmen Restaurant 6. El Bistro.

Tboacademy Team

January 23, 2024

Best Places of Colombia , most visited place in Colombia , Places to visit in Colombia , Top Attractions in Colombia , Tourist Attractions in Colombia , Trip to Colombia

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The Best 2024 Sci-Fi Movies, Ranked

The best wine tasting vacation destination on the east coast, best bolognese sauce jars, the best temperature range for sleep is probably higher than you’d expect, the best brow pencils to shape & define your arches, the 6 best trees with fall color – landscapers pick the most beautiful for your yard, 13 restaurant chains that serve the best mozzarella sticks, 7 best netflix movies with 100% on rotten tomatoes, 25 best webinar software platforms, henry cavill, a sustainable king, is re-wearing his best suits, 20 best places to visit in colombia, according to locals and experts.

places to go visit in colombia

Colombia, a country that sits at the northern tip of South America, is endowed with a tapestry of vibrant cities, serene beaches, and some of the most biodiverse landscapes in the world. According to locals and travel experts, these are the 20 best places to visit in Colombia:

1.Cartagena : Known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively squares, Cartagena is a living museum by the Caribbean Sea.

2.Medellín : Once infamous, now famous for its innovative culture and the paisa hospitality, Medellín is a city transformed.

3.Bogotá : The high-altitude capital blends the old with the new—a city where you can explore historic neighborhoods and modern dining scenes.

4.Cali: As the salsa capital of Colombia, Cali offers vibrant nightlife and an energetic cultural scene.

5.The Coffee Triangle (Pereira, Manizales, and Armenia): This region leads visitors through lush coffee plantations and offers insights into coffee production.

6.Santa Marta: Gateway to the beaches of Tayrona National Park and the Lost City trek.

7.San Andres & Providencia Islands: These Caribbean islands boast exquisite beaches and offer world-class snorkeling and diving.

8.Villa de Leyva : A beautifully preserved colonial town with a stunning plaza that seems frozen in time.

9.Guatapé : Home to the famous El Peñón de Guatapé rock formation and colorful streets with intricate wall murals.

10.Popayán : Often referred to as ‘La Ciudad Blanca’ (The White City), this historic city is known for its charming white-washed buildings.

11.Salento : A small town in the Andean hills where travelers can hike through the Cocora Valley among towering wax palm trees.

12.Mompox : This unspoiled colonial river town feels like a place where time stands still, boasting architecture that has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage status.

13.Leticia : The entry point for many into the Amazon rainforest; it’s rich in indigenous culture and exotic wildlife.

14.Minca : Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Minca is perfect for eco-tourists looking for bird watching and natural waterfalls.

15.Pasto : Known for its Black and White Carnival, Pasto also serves as a base for exploring stunning nearby landscapes like Las Lajas Sanctuary.

16.Tatacoa Desert : Characterized by its otherworldly terrain reminiscent of Mars with cacti-scattered red soil formations.

17.Ipiales: Border town known primarily for its proximity to Las Lajas Sanctuary—one of Colombia’s architectural marvels tucked between mountains.

18.Barichara : Often nominated as the prettiest village in Colombia with cobblestone streets leading to panoramic vistas of surrounding valleys.

19.Palomino : A chilled-out beach town where the jungle meets the sea; ideal for tubing down Palomino River meeting Caribbean waves moments later

20.San Gil: Known as Colombia’s adventure capital—rafting, kayaking, paragliding are just some of the thrilling activities available here.

These destinations showcase Colombia’s incredible variety—there truly is something for every type of traveler visiting this captivating country.

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20 Best Places To Visit In Colombia, According To Locals And Experts

From colourful villages to stunning beaches, here are some of the best places to visit in colombia, according to locals..

By: Carley Rojas Avila Published: Feb 20, 2024 03:00 PM UTC

20 Best Places To Visit In Colombia, According To Locals And Experts

A hypnotising mix of charming coastal cities, world-class cuisine, and lush landscapes hiding immense biodiversity have made the bicoastal country of Colombia one of the most sought-after destinations in the Americas. Spending a long weekend in Cartagena or a few days in Bogotá isn’t enough; even after spending months living in Medellín, I felt I barely scratched the surface of all Colombia offers. With the help of Medellín-based Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Boris Seckovic and locals who work at some of the country’s most incredible accommodations, like Bio Habitat Hotel and Casa Pestagua, we’ve assembled a list of the best places to visit in Colombia.

Read on to find the country’s most scenic trekking trails , untouched white-sand beaches, and where to get the best cup of Colombian coffee.

Best places to visit in Colombia according to locals 

Medellín.

best places to visit in Colombia

Few destinations have done a better job rebranding themselves than Medellín, a vibrant metropolis whose rapid transformation has made it one of South America’s most sought-after cities for travellers and digital nomads alike. Laureles was recently named the coolest neighbourhood in the world, though travellers might be more familiar with El Poblado as home to some of Colombia’s trendiest cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Medellín’s impressive public transportation network includes several cable cars, making the journey to green spaces like Arvi Park one of the best ways to enjoy breathtaking views of a city that crawls dramatically up the mountainsides of the Aburrá Valley.

Valle de Cocora

cow grazing

Don’t be surprised if the Valle de Cocora (Cocora Valley) in the heart of Colombia’s coffee country looks familiar. This magical area served as the real-life inspiration for Disney’s “Encanto,” so you’ll be sure to hear the soundtrack’s most famous song as you pass through the nearby village of Salento. Despite its new claim to fame, the Valle de Cocora has long been famous for its impressive forest of wax palm trees, which tower high above the valley, growing up to 200 feet tall.

Bogotá

best places to visit in Colombia

One of the best cities in South America , Colombia’s bustling capital city of Bogotá is much more than just a stopover after an international flight. As soon as you arrive, take a funicular or cable car up the Cerro de Monserrate to take in the city views and get your bearings before exploring the historic neighbourhood of La Candelaria. Visiting the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) is a must, as is experiencing the city’s increasingly impressive culinary scene at spots like the award-winning El Chato, one of the world’s best restaurants .

Stay at the luxurious W Bogotá , named by T+L readers among the best hotels in South America last year, or stop by for their beloved night brunch. The hotel’s bold design is a modern interpretation of the legend of El Dorado.

Book your stay at W Bogota via Booking.com

Amazon Rainforest

Amazon

“Colombia’s slice of the Amazon rainforest isn’t as well-known as the Amazon in neighbouring countries, but it’s almost better that way,” says Seckovic, who heads Amakuna , the leading specialist for luxury travel in Colombia. “You’ll see far fewer people here and have a much better chance of encountering wildlife because of it.” Explore the jungle by starting in the regional capital of Leticia, hidden among forest canopy and accessible only by aeroplane. From there, head to one of the region’s ecolodges for biologist-led excursions into the wilderness, where colourful butterflies dart above waters where pink Amazonian river dolphins play.

Santa Cruz de Mompox

best places to visit in Colombia

Set along the Magdalena River that winds towards Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, the colonial village of Santa Cruz de Mompox “feels like what Cartagena used to be,” says Seckovic. An important stop along the river used by the Spanish to extract gold, the UNESCO-protected town still retains all its historic beauty, and an artisan filigree jewellery industry points to its golden past. First-of-their-kind cruises along the Magdalena River with AmaWaterways will kick off in 2024, offering a new way to experience the region on routes that twist through the countryside between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

street

Cartagena is officially Colombia’s worst-kept secret. Whether by cruise ship or via newly added flight routes from major US cities, travellers now flock to Colombia’s buzziest and most colourful hotspot year-round. A walk along age-old Spanish colonial walls at sunset with glimpses of the glimmering high-rises of Bocagrande in the distance is all you’ll need to see why.

Carolina Bernal, general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua , recommends staying in a restored mansion for a look into the city’s past. Longtime Cartagena favourite Casa San Agustin is a gem; its sister property, Casa Pestagua, is a meticulously restored and luxurious 17th-century mansion colloquially known as the most beautiful home in Cartagena.

Book your stay at Hotel Casa San Agustin via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hotel Casa San Agustin via agoda.com

Book your stay at Casa Pestagua via Booking.com

Book your stay at Casa Pestagua Relais via agoda.com

Isla Barú

best places to visit in Colombia

Until recently, Isla Barú was mostly a destination for day trippers looking for the best beaches near Cartagena . The recent addition of the Sofitel Barú Casablanca Beach Resort changes all that, making this “island” just 45 minutes from the city an increasingly popular destination all its own. Travellers can also enjoy a beach day or book an overnight at one of the six new cabana-style bungalows at Acasi Private Beach, a luxe extension of Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua on the sand.

Eje Cafetero

coffee farm

Colombia’s idyllic coffee-growing region is known as the Eje Cafetero , the “Coffee Axis.” This verdant landscape is peppered with grand haciendas and tiny, shaded cafetales where families have long worked the land, and even passersby enjoy the aroma of the world’s best coffee. Explore the countryside in a colourful, open-air Jeep Willy, visiting historic villages like Salento, Jardin, and Filandia along the way.

One of the region’s coolest places to stay is Bio Habitat Hotel , where luxurious free-standing accommodations are enveloped in rainforest flora and fauna and offer views across the Andes. This eco-conscious, regenerative hotel perched amidst the forest canopy feels a world away, though it’s just minutes from the city of Armenia and some of the country’s finest artisan coffee farms.

Book your stay at Bio Habitat hotel via booking.com

Book your stay at Bio Habitat Hotel

Ciudad Perdida

best places to visit in Colombia

Tucked within the lush, tropical Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida (or “Lost City”) is among the great ancient ruins in South America. There’s no easy way to reach Ciudad Perdida; visiting this hidden settlement demands a four-day mountain trek with numerous river crossings. The payoff is well worth it: Just a few dozen intrepid travellers reach this expansive site with its terraced hillsides and circular plazas every day, meaning you’ll get to enjoy it almost uninterrupted.

Only a handful of Santa Marta-based tour operators are certified to guide visitors to the site, still cared for by the descendants of the Tairona people who built the settlement centuries ago.

Guatapé and El Peñol

lagoon

It’s impossible to miss El Peñol, a massive monolith towering many stories over the countryside of Antioquia as if dropped from the heavens by a giant. If the climb to the top doesn’t take your breath away, the 360-degree views from the top certainly will. Just minutes down the road, the small town of Guatapé has its own flavour of fantasy, with a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns covering the facades of its historic buildings. These twin destinations are an easy day-trip distance from Medellín, but an overnight stay at some of the country’s coolest glamping spots is even better.

Caño Cristales

best places to visit in Colombia

Known as Colombia’s “river of five colours,” Caño Cristales is home to unique aquatic plants that give it a liquid rainbow effect you must see to believe. When the colourful effect is at peak vibrancy between July and November, the river seems to run green, magenta, purple, maroon, and canary yellow simultaneously. The river is located in the relatively isolated Serranía de la Macarena National Park, though locals attest it’s well worth the trip to see one of the world’s strangest natural wonders .

Colombia

The village of Barichara is arguably Colombia’s prettiest. Barichara is a bit further from the country’s major cities than other historic gems like Villa de Leyva, so “it’s stunningly beautiful, but still not too touristy,” says Seckovic. The town made T+L’s list of the best-hidden gem destinations to visit last year and is conveniently located just a stone’s throw from San Gil, the undisputed capital of adventure travel in Colombia.

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Tayrona national park.

best places to visit in Colombia

In Tayrona National Park, Colombia’s best beaches line untouched jungles with enough endemic flora and fauna to make any eco-conscious traveller swoon. Take a skippered sailing excursion to the park directly from Santa Marta, with stops at spots like Bahia Concha and Cabo San Juan for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. More adventurous travellers can trek through the park and camp in hammocks perched directly over white sands.

Rosario Islands

best places to visit in Colombia

“The Rosario Islands, or Islas del Rosario, are known for coral reefs and year-round diving and snorkelling opportunities,” says Bernal of this perennially popular destination located off the coast of Cartagena. Hop on a speedboat in town and escape to eco-friendly boutique hotels tucked away on sandy shores, offering some serious rest and relaxation far from the crowds. It’s an affordable and laid-back alternative to the built-up Caribbean islands where you would spend your days fighting for beach chairs.

Barranquilla

best places to visit in Colombia

Among the cities on Colombia’s Caribbean Coast , Barranquilla can’t compete with buzzy, beautiful Cartagena. However, for one week a year, Colombia lives and breathes to the rhythms of the Carnival of Barranquilla. Folkloric dance, music, and rich, regional food shine among a packed schedule of events including the Battle of the Flowers, the Great Troupes Parade, and the Death of Joselito Carnival, each more vibrant than the last. It’s such an essential spectacle that it made the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .

Popayán

best places to visit in Colombia

The small city of Popayán still flies under the radar of most travellers, but it’s all the better for it. Known as Colombia’s “White City” for its grand historic centre’s whitewashed facades, this laid-back town feels like a breath of fresh air for travellers with an itinerary packed with just the country’s biggest highlights. It’s a great first stop on a road trip north through cities like Cali and to the haciendas and villages that make the Eje Cafetero so memorable.

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Tatacoa desert.

Tacota

The Tatacoa Desert is the second-largest arid environment in Colombia, after the dune-studded La Guajira at the northern tip of South America. However, Tatacoa isn’t a desert at all, but a long-dry tropical forest where lush flowers bloomed a millennium ago. Its unexpected past makes fossil-hunting a perfect pastime on hikes through its dramatic red canyons. Tatacoa’s remote location and ideal atmospheric conditions also make it one of South America’s best destinations for stargazing.

best places to visit in Colombia

Known as the capital city of salsa, Cali is the best place to visit in Colombia if you want to settle into several days of lessons to truly master these sensual steps. Zaperoco Bar is one of Cali’s most famous salsa clubs, while Siboney — its name pointing to the rhythm’s original Cuban roots — has long been one of Cali’s salsa institutions. Fill your dance breaks by exploring the city’s historic centre and with day trips through the Valle del Cauca for river tubing, ziplining, and waterfall hikes.

Nuquí

Beach

Tucked away within Utría National Natural Park on a remote stretch of Colombia’s Pacific Coast, the tiny beach town of Nuquí is known as one of the best places in the country for whale watching . Between July and October, humpback whales travel from Antarctica to these warmer waters to give birth to their babies in the region’s protected lagoons. Whale watching is the undisputed highlight for most travellers visiting Nuquí, but adventurous travellers will love surfing near jungle-fringed shores and hiking to long-hidden rainforest waterfalls.

San Andrés and Providencia

best places to visit in Colombia

Search for the islands of San Andrés and Providencia on a map, and you’d be forgiven for thinking they were a part of Central America. These tiny, remote islands over 450 miles (724 KM)  from the Colombian mainland sit within a stretch of sea so azure it’s called the “Sea of Seven Colors,” and they are home to some of Colombia’s last truly untouched beaches. Livelier San Andrés and more unspoiled Providencia are little-visited, idyllic destinations worth considering for your next unplugged, unbothered Caribbean getaway.

Boris Seckovic is a T+L A-list advisor and Colombia specialist living in Medellín.

Carolina Bernal is the general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua, luxury hotels located in Cartagena.

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( Feature Image Credit: atosan/Getty Images)

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

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Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled

Top 20 Breathtaking Places to Discover in Colombia

Despite the previous strife, Colombians are routinely rated the happiest people in the world. They know their reputation and will go out of their way to show you exactly how off-the-mark your assumptions are. 

I’m not too embarrassed to say the country worked its way into this young man’s heart! By my count, there are approximately one million beauty spots in this country, but amazingly, I’ve been able to whittle that down to a very manageable twenty…

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We can book your trip to stay in Colombia’s beautiful places through our top-rated travel planning service !

1. Cartagena

Cartagena

The north coast of Colombia is home to the party and tourist hotspot of Cartagena. This is a throbbing city where the nights turn into days that turn into nights again, often without you noticing! 

The after-hours fun is balanced beautifully with an old town dripping with history.

Here, you’ll find stories of the Spanish Inquisition and stark reminders of the slave trade, then be able to wash away the thoughts of how rubbish people were hundreds of years ago with an ice-cold Aguila and a bit of salsa.

  • Location: North of Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: December-March

My favorite highlights…

  • Strolling the historic Old Town’s cobbled streets.
  • Exploring Museo del Oro for pre-Columbian artefacts.

2. San Andres y Providencia

San Andres y Providencia

Located 450 miles off the Caribbean coast, the San Andres y Providencia archipelago comprises seven large islands and two dozens of corral reef islets.

You can get there by ferry or plane, and tourists do not overrun it due to its remote location. The department’s capital island, San Andres, is one of the best resorts in the Caribbean. The natural beauty of this place remains largely untouched by civilization.

Azure waves, coral reefs, and a fabulous underwater world lure flocks of snorkeling, diving, and surfing enthusiasts. The mild climate, clear sea, white-sand beaches, and friendly locals make the islands an ideal holiday destination.

On top of the gorgeous scenery, the archipelago boasts historical and cultural attractions. Do you like geysers? Then check out an underwater geyser, Soplador, which spews a fountain from a narrow cleft in the massive calcareous rock. Lastly, don’t forget to visit Johnny Cay Island to taste mouth-watering cuisine in one of their atmospheric reggae bars!

  • Location: northwest of mainland Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: December-April

My highlights…

  • Checking out the mesmerizing underwater geyser, Soplador!
  • Enjoying reggae vibes and local cuisine on Johnny Cay Island.

Guatape town

La Piedra Del Peñol is a large chunk of rock that rises out of the middle of an artificial lake near the sleepy town of Guatape, located in northwest Colombia 2 hours northeast of Medellin.

The lake was only created in the 60s for hydroelectric purposes and has made the view from the top of the climbable rock genuinely exquisite . The township of Guatape is only as old as the lake, and because of this, it has created its unique aesthetic.

One of the original house owners decided to decorate the front of his house with colorful tiles depicting his trade, and over the years, the entire town followed suit. It’s the cutest!

  • Location: Andean resort town in northwest Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: July-August
  • Embarking on a coffee tour.
  • Experiencing the beauty of Zona Cafetera.

4. Zona Cafetera

Zona Cafetera

I would recommend not missing the opportunity to visit the globally famous Colombia coffee triangle, a world heritage-listed coffee-growing region in the Andino region. The best coffee in the country (and arguably in the whole world) is grown here, in the heart of the country.

Zona Cafetera is where you can try hundreds of coffee brews, go around coffee bean plantations, and learn how coffee is grown and processed. You can also see the area from above in a beautiful hot air balloon ride.

In addition to coffee-related attractions, I’d suggest visiting the colorful houses of the village Salento and the Catedral de Manizales tower, which offers stunning views.

Do not deny yourself the pleasure of dipping in the thermal springs of Santa Rosa and San Vincent. And if you like mountain hiking, Zona Cafetera is a great starting point for exploring the Andes! 

  • Location: Paisa region in rural Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: October-November
  • Tasting the incredible coffee!
  • Relaxing in Santa Rosa’s thermal springs.

5. Islas del Rosario

Islas del Rosario

Move 60 miles southwest of Cartagena and come across Islas del Rosario. Ideal for beachgoers and scuba divers, the islands are famous for their magnificent coral reefs, diverse underwater world, magnificent sandy beaches, and crystal-clear sea. Colombia has a network of national parks, but the most remarkable one is located here.

Unlike its counterparts, this park is predominantly underwater, meaning it’s teeming with endemic, nowhere-else-to-be-seen species of marine flora and fauna. Here, everyone will find something they like – kayak through mango groves, explore tiny islands, taste authentic cuisine, or chill out on the beach.

The Enchanted Lagoon on Isla Grande is a site where you can observe the stunning natural phenomenon of glowing plankton. You can visit the islands on organized day trips from Cartagena, stay at one of the hotels, or see as part of a scuba diving course.

Several hotels on the islands often include transportation as part of your stay, which, in my opinion is one of the best ways to visit the islands.

  • Location: 20 kilometres off the coast of Cartagena
  • Best Months to Visit: April, November
  • Diving and seeing the incredible coral reefs.
  • Kayaking through mango groves!

6. Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park

Next to the seaside city of Santa Marta, you’ll find Tayrona National Park . It’s a heady combination of untouched Caribbean beaches and dense rainforest, leading to massive, often snow-capped mountains.

Find a tent and some sleeping gear and get lost in nature until you find a combination of the above that suits you best. Take supplies to last a while, though – Tayrona has a habit of keeping people longer than planned.

  • Location: Magdalena
  • Best Months to Visit: September-November
  • Exploring hidden coastal coves.
  • Trekking through lush rainforest trails.

7. Medellin

Medellin

As of 1991-92, Medellin was officially the murder capital of the world. Pablo Escobar had set up shop and was throwing money at anyone in a position of power and killing anyone who chose to go honest.

At the same time, the Colombian civil war simultaneously raged on. The difference from then to now is nothing short of STUNNING! I felt as safe in Medellin as in any European capital, and it’s become quite a hub for trendy travelers in the know.

The public transport infrastructure, much of which was built during those trying times, makes seeing this picturesque city a breeze.

Take a cable car up to Arvi Park and soak in the views of the valley-bound city. Find a hostel bed in El Poblado and get waist-deep in the epic nightlife. Hear the stories of the people who have lived it – from then to now!

  • Location: Antioquia province.
  • Best Months to Visit: December-February
  • Riding a cable car to Arvi Park.
  • Experiencing El Poblado’s vibrant nightlife!

8. Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva

The small town of Villa de Leyva is one of the country’s colonial heritage sites. The colonial architecture of the settlement is preserved in its original variety. Here, you will discover pretty houses dating from the XVI – XVIII centuries.

According to local legislation, all newly constructed buildings must also carry the colonial style. Thanks to this, it feels as if you are traveling back in time when you visit here!

Despite its modest size, the town holds some impressive records. For instance, it’s the proud host of the most extensive (3.5 square acres) and is a stunning square (perhaps the most stunning!) in South America.

It also boasts the highest density of hotels and restaurants per population. For these and many other reasons, Villa de Leyva became a national historic-cultural monument in 1954.

  • Location: northeast of Bogotá.
  • Best Months to Visit: December -March
  • Strolling over Plaza Mayor’s historic cobbled pavements.
  • Exploring XVI-XVIII century whitewashed colonial houses.

9. Gorgona Island

Gorgona Island Colombia

The small but beautiful Gorgon Island (only 10 square miles) sits 22 miles off the country’s Pacific coast. In the 1950s, Colombian authorities decided to open a prison on the island, hoping that the abundance of snakes and remoteness would help prevent escapes.

However, the prison did not last long, and in the mid-1980s, most of its dangerous inhabitants left the island. Since then, Gorgona has evolved into a national park to preserve its endemic species, such as the Blue Anole lizard.

The former barracks of correctional officers were turned into cozy condos for tourists who head into the jungle to see the prison ruins overgrown with vines. Another major attraction is the gorgeous humpback whales, whose migration routes closely pass along the shore.

  • Location: 28 km off the Colombian Pacific coast.
  • Best Months to Visit: July-October
  • Exploring lush jungle and prison ruins!
  • Witnessing migrating humpback whales!

10. Guachalito Beach

Guachalito Beach

Colombia’s Pacific coast is one of the planet’s wildest and most exotic corners. Here are beautiful beaches and untouched scenery accessible with glamour and gloss!

The local beaches look the same as on the first day Mother Nature created them. One of these pristine strips of sand is Guachalito Beach, lying in the wilderness next to the small fishing town of Nuqui. Guachalito is a perfect place to isolate yourself from the crowds and enjoy your holidays in tranquillity and peace.

However, perhaps the main reason to visit these parts is the incredible humpback whales, which breed and give birth to their offspring off the Pacific coast. Whether you watch these giant mammals from the beach or take a boat trip, a once-in-a-lifetime experience is guaranteed!

  • Location: Nuquí, Choco
  • Best Months to Visit: January-March
  • Watching the incredible humpback whales!
  • Relaxing on Guachalito’s unspoiled, tranquil beach.

Bogota Colombia

We thoroughly understood Bogota. When fellow travelers heard we were going, the consensus was ‘minimize the time and move on.’ How wrong they were. For all its grit and grime, Bogota had more character than most other Colombian cities combined.

A burgeoning student population, an intense nightlife scene, and a particularly lenient attitude to street art made most of the center of town feel like a more relaxed version of East London.

It’s also got a rather lovely cobblestoned center featuring colonial-era landmarks. Find a place to stay in La Candelaria, then wander around and look up all day .

  • Location: Center of the country
  • Snapping the La Candelaria’s vibrant street art.
  • Wandering the charming cobblestoned colonial center.

12. Sapzurro

Sapzurro Colombia

The small village of Sapzurro is just a stone’s throw from Panama (located in the northwest corner of the country. Despite its off-the-beaten-track location, you won’t be disappointed.

This place is replete with world-class diving spots, small restaurants serving fresh seafood, and plenty of places to watch the unique local nature in seclusion.

Explore the jungles and discover a small but lovely La Diana waterfall, stroll along the coastal groves on your way to the neighboring Cabo Tiburon village, or stay overnight at the Reserva Tacarcuna ecolodge to observe diverse Colombian wildlife.

And, of course, do not forget to walk to another continent – Central America spreads out right behind a small hill on the outskirts of Sapzurro.

  • Location: northwest Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: March-May
  • Going scuba diving!
  • Wandering to La Diana waterfall.

13. Cabo de la Vela

Cabo de la Vela

Cabo de la Vela is a popular eco-tourism destination in the Caribbean and a remote desert village on Colombia’s northern tip, leaving travelers in total awe of its unique beauty.

This is where the striking bronze sands of the desert meet the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, creating a breathtaking contrast, so much so that the Indian tribes living in these parts believe they harbor something mystical. 

Invading Europeans were equally in awe of the place – and they gave the headland its modern name, Cape of Sails.

Once a very under-the-radar destination, it’s become an increasingly popular place. It’s mostly known as being a destination for kitesurfing.

  • Location: Colombia’s northern tip
  • Best Months to Visit: December-January
  • Capturing the sunset over the desert and sea.
  • Experiencing thrilling kitesurfing adventures!

14. San Gil

San Gil Colombia

Are you sick of lounging on beautiful beaches or in rainforest hammocks? Do you feel like getting the blood circulating again? Head two hours south of Bucaramanga to the quiet mountain town of San Gil in northern Colombia and dip your toe, lead, and torso into countless adventure activities.

And if mountain biking, rafting, canyoning, paragliding, or rock climbing, don’t float your boat; head to nearby Curiti for a swim in their epic string of rock pools, or head 30 minutes to the majestic Juan Curi waterfall.

  • Location: northern Colombia
  • Rafting the Suarez River.
  • Paraglide over scenic landscapes.

15. Popayan

Popayan

One of the country’s most significant southern centers, Popayan, is located between the country’s Western and Central mountain ranges about 140km south of Cali. The location between the mountain ranges means it rains.

And when I say it rains, I mean it rains! Approximately two-thirds of the year. Bring an umbrella. The city is tranquil but charming, with almost the entire center consisting of whitewashed colonial buildings.

I was a month late, but I am reliably told that the ‘White City’ is Colombia’s place to be during Easter!

  • Location: western Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: June-September

My favorite highlights… 

  • Strolling cobbled streets adorned with history.
  • Experiencing Holy Week processions!

16. Capurgana

Capurgana

Capurgana and nearby Sapzurro mark the final pieces of Columbian soil before entering Panama. You’ll find stunning beaches rolling into gorgeous Caribbean reefs that you’ll swear are painted and plenty of incredible diving spots!

The sand gives way to a dense jungle that is full to the brim with local wildlife.

The seafood is plentiful and ridiculously fresh, but keep your eye on it – the local monkeys will be keen to share in your feed. And for a unique addition to your bucket list, why not walk – or even swim – to another continent?

  • Location: the Caribbean coast
  • Best Months to Visit: December
  • Exploring the vibrant Caribbean coral reefs.
  • Taking a jungle trek to the unique Sapzurro.

17. Santa Rosa de Cabal

Santa Rosa de Cabal Colombia

A town of just 60,000, Santa Rosa (located in the west-central) is famous for its silkworm industry and Termales, a thermal pool and waterfall combination that is nothing short of a work of art. 200km south of Medellin, it is the perfect stop-over for any traveler heading to Ecuador.

The water is the perfect temperature, and the springs usually stay open well into the night. Head there for an evening soak in the serenity with a drink.

  • Location: Department of Risaralda
  • Relaxing in the soothing thermal pools.
  • Experiencing the enchanting Termales waterfall.

18. Santiago de Cali

Santiago de Cali

Even after people described Cali as the world capital of salsa, it was hard to wrap my head around exactly how ingrained the famous Latin American dance is in the city’s culture. It is everywhere .

So I suggest strapping on your dancing shoes because if you’re in Cali (a populous city in the Valle del Cauca department, southwest of Bogotá), you’ll be moving your feet.

Often seen as the little brother of Bogota and Medellin, it breaks away from any comparison with an atmosphere all its own. The surrounding wilderness is in itself breathtaking. Be sure to reach KM 18 (Columbia’s bird-watching paradise) while you’re there!

  • Location: southwest Colombia
  • Salsa dancing all night in the vibrant clubs!
  • Experiencing KM 18’s bird-watching paradise.

19. Via Isla de Salamanca

Via Isla de Salamanca

The unique ecosystem formed at the confluence of the Magdalena River’s fresh waters and the Caribbean’s saline waves is the backbone of the Salamanca Island National Park (Via Isla de Salamanca located in the Caribbean Region of the country.

The park covers picturesque freshwater swamps, coastal lagoons, secluded beaches, and a handful of islets separated by narrow channels.

Take a fascinating canoe trip through the canals overgrown with mango trees, stroll along the wooden bridges laid through freshwater swamps, explore the picturesque surroundings from the observation deck, visit bird nesting areas, or take a boat excursion along the Caribbean coast – this is just brief list of thing to do in this enchanting spot!

  • Best Months to Visit: April-July
  • Canoeing through lush mangrove canals.
  • Exploring the wooden bridges in freshwater swamps.

20. Pilon de Azucar

Pilon de Azucar Colombia

The secluded sandy beach Pilon de Azucar and the eponymous mountain sacred to the Wayuu Indians who live here are the highlights of Cabo de la Vela.

The white cliff, towering above the serene waters of the Caribbean Sea, is one of the best spots to watch the stars. The top of this small yet picturesque mountain (where a 15-minute hike will take you to the summit of this conical hill) offers stunning vistas of the Caribbean Sea.

Here, you will have a beautiful panoramic view of Alta Guajira and the Serrania del Carpintero mountain ridge looming in the distance. Near the viewpoint, you will be greeted by a statue of the patron saint of the mountain, La Virgen de Fatima, erected by pearl hunters more than 80 years ago.

  • Location: Cape La Vela, Eastern Colombia
  • Best Months to Visit: December-Aril
  • Climbing Pilon de Azucar and seeing incredible panoramic views.
  • Enjoy stargazing on the pristine beach at night.

Michael Anderson

Michael Cowley – writer and photographer

Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always had an affinity for adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued seeking out new places and cultures. In his spare time he explores everywhere from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, trying all kinds of street food, playing carrom with random strangers, and fine wine – he knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Goa, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations. Find Michael on Instagram or Twitter .

Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Discover Greece, Barcelo Hotels, and Rickshaw Travel. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

22 thoughts on “Top 20 Breathtaking Places to Discover in Colombia”

I love the 10th picture down with the boats in the water. The water doesn’t even look real, It’s so pretty

Hmm You forgot about the San Agustín and Tierradentro statutes dating 3000 years or more, Unescorted sites.

Nice article, Colombia is an awesome country, it has a lot of beautiful place, Thanks for sharing.

Colombia is an awesome country, it has a lot of beautiful places, it could be better if all the people that live here change, because im from Colombia but i think that the unique problem is the people, obviusly not all the people but a lot of them

What do you mean the people? The people of Colombia are extremely friendly,like in any country in the world,there are exemptions. Love this Colombian Country,one of the most exotic Countries in the World!

i have visited medellin in 2019 cant wait to go back never see any trouble and all the people was nice and friendly did not want to go home love the place

Nice article! Colombia is my favorite country in Latin America because of its landscapes and delicious food. The place I loved the most was the Cocora Valley because of its incredible and tall trees!

We live in Ecuador, but originally from California. So close to Colombia, yet we have yet to make the trip. Now I really want to go, there are so many beautiful spots. There are beautiful spots here in Ecuador to that we write about in our blog.

Your blog; I’ve seen it.It is AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Looks like a very cool country to visit thanks for sharing these great areas!

Hope to visit Colombia next yer.

They all look like fantastic places, especially the waterfall!

Wow those beaches look like something else and the towns you’ve chosen look pretty special too!

We love their choices too, Columbia looks awesome!

This reminds me I need to see more of South America SOON! Great post guys!

Great choices for a country we don’t often hear much about, I have to admit it wasn’t on my travel list before but maybe it should be!

Very cool post, Columbia looks like a very interesting place to visit!

Looks fantastic in these photos!

I just finished to watch the tv series ‘Narcos’ about Pablo Escobar, it makes me want to visit this country !!!

Beautiful Pictures Becky. I have been to Bogota and its tough yet fun. Colombia is affordable and very beautiful.

Oh I would love to see Santa Rosa for the pool/waterall combo!!

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Espresso

20 amazing places to visit in Colombia

Posted: November 9, 2023 | Last updated: November 9, 2023

Dreaming of escaping the cold with a tropical vacation, but want to stray off the beaten path? Colombia, with its lush nature and vibrant culture, could be just the ticket. Here are 20 incredible places to visit in this South American country that are more than worth the trip.

Second only to Bogotá in size, Medellín has been an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. Its reputation as the most dangerous city in the world due to the influence of Pablo Escobar is a thing of the past. Among the many fascinating places to visit is the Plaza Botero, where you can admire about 20 sculptures by this emblematic Colombian artist. Don’t forget to take a cable car ride for a bird’s-eye view of the City of Eternal Spring and the murals of Comuna 13.

Roughly 80 kilometres outside Medellín sits the mythical rock formation known as the <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/medellin/rock-guatape" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rock of Guatapé</a>. After climbing 650 steps, you will find yourself 200 metres above the base of the rock with a stunning view of this place once revered by the indigenous Tahamí people.

Rock of Guatapé

<p>To get to this <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/blog/ciudad-perdida-gateway-past-sierra-nevada-de-santa-marta" rel="noreferrer noopener">lost city</a> you’ll need to complete a multi-day guided hike of more than 44 kilometres through the mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Its remote location explains why this lush jungle was only rediscovered in the 1970s. According to scientists, this area was likely home to one of the biggest pre-Columbian settlements in the Americas.</p>

Ciudad Perdida

To get to this lost city you’ll need to complete a multi-day guided hike of more than 44 kilometres through the mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Its remote location explains why this lush jungle was only rediscovered in the 1970s. According to scientists, this area was likely home to one of the biggest pre-Columbian settlements in the Americas.

Located in northern Colombia, <a href="https://www.parquetayrona.com/en/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tayrona National Park</a> is a protected area featuring wild landscapes, coastal Caribbean lagoons, and flourishing nature. It has some of the most spectacular beaches in the country (they’re also great for snorkelling!) and the impressive archeological site of Pueblito.

Tayrona National Park

The capital of Colombia, <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/bogota" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bogotá</a> is a bustling city that has retained its historical charm. A visit to the country’s largest city wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Plaza de Bolívar and the Teatro Colón, not to mention its many museums, including the Botero Museum, the National Museum of Colombia, and the Gold Museum.

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

Dreaming of escaping the cold with a tropical vacation, but want to stray off the beaten path? Colombia, with its lush nature and vibrant culture, could be just the ticket. Here are 20 incredible places to visit in this South American country that are more than worth the trip.

Las Lajas Sanctuary

Colombia’s northernmost point, <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/colombia/la-guajira-peninsula" rel="noreferrer noopener">La Guajira Peninsula</a> is an isolated area on the Caribbean coast still inhabited by the indigenous Wayúu people. You can visit this beautiful area with a rich biodiversity by way of Cabo de la Vela, a magical windsurfing and kitesurfing destination.

La Guajira Peninsula

Caño cristales.

Spanning over 330 sq. km, the <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/blog/tatacoa-desert-garden-turned-desert" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tatacoa Desert</a> is currently the second largest dry area in Colombia. You may be surprised to learn, then, that a lush tropical forest stood in its place several million years ago. You can also admire the stars and even meteor showers from its observatory, in an area surrounded by canyons and cacti with minimal light pollution.

Tatacoa Desert

<a href="https://colombia.travel/en/villa-de-leyva" rel="noreferrer noopener">Villa de Leyva</a>, one of the most beautiful cities in Colombia. Located a mere three-hour drive from Bogotá, a stroll through its charming streets will allow you to admire its colonial architecture and make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Make sure to check out Plaza Mayor, the largest Spanish square in the country. If you’re interested in paleontology, you’ll be delighted to learn that the area harbours many fossils from the Cretaceous era.

Villa de Leyva

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/434/" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Agustín Archeological Park</a> features hundreds of pre-Columbian statues and a large collection of megalithic sculptures, not to mention a breathtaking view of the Andes. It’s a must-see stop for history buffs.

San Agustín Archeological Park

Those who venture to the island of <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/san-andres-island" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Andrés</a> will be rewarded with beautiful white sand beaches and clear waters. It is also one of Colombia’s best places to go diving and admire the coral reefs. Between April and July, you can also witness the migration of the black land crabs as they journey to the sea.

Cocora Valley

Composed of more than 30 islands near Cartagena, this <a href="https://www.colombia-travels.com/caribbean/rosario-islands" rel="noreferrer noopener">archipelago</a> is one of the most beautiful national parks in Colombia. With its crystal clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, it’s a perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Bendita Beach and Isla Grande are just a few of the magical places where you can relax and enjoy the sun and sea.

Rosario Islands

Spanning over 17 kilometres on the Caribbean coast in the north of Colombia, <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/providencia" rel="noreferrer noopener">Providencia</a> is an idyllic island where you can also find the beautiful McBean Lagoon National Park. Golden beaches, mangrove forests, and a huge coral reef await you just a few hours by boat from San Andrés.

Providencia

Not far from Villa de Leyva sits <a href="https://colombiatravelreporter.com/raquira-the-pottery-capital-of-colombia/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Raquira</a>, a colourful and vibrant town known for its thriving art scene—so much so that it’s also known as the pottery capital of Colombia. Here, you can buy unique handicrafts and explore the local market to get a better feel for the Colombian culture.

Coffee Triangle

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Colombia Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

places to go visit in colombia

Ready to embark on a journey to Colombia, a land of lush greenery, rich history, and aromatic coffee? Well, pack your bags (and don't forget that sense of adventure), because we've prepared a go-to guide with all you need to know about traveling to this South American gem. From the best times to visit to those bucket list experiences that make a trip truly unforgettable, we've got you covered.

In this guide:

  • The best time to visit
  • Top attractions
  • Hidden gems to explore
  • Bucket list experiences
  • Travel tips
  • Stay connected with a Colombia eSIM

Colombian flag above a building

Best Time to Visit Colombia

Colombia boasts a range of climates due to its topography, with coasts, jungles, and mountains, but the temperature remains fairly consistent year-round in each region. However, the drier periods of December to February and July to August are generally accepted as the best times to visit. Be prepared for varying conditions, though, and remember — rain in Colombia can mean more vibrant landscapes!

Top Attractions in Colombia

Colombia's top attractions are rich in history, culture, and breathtaking nature. Explore these five must-see sights for an unforgettable Colombian experience.

Buildings in Cartagena's Old City

Cartagena is an enchanting blend of colonial charm and Caribbean flair. From the picturesque plazas of its UNESCO-listed Old Town to the serene beaches of Islas del Rosario, Cartagena has plenty to offer.

The best things to do in Cartagena:

  • Explore the Old Town:  Dive into the history of Cartagena by wandering through the Old Town. This area, also known as the Historic Center, is renowned for its colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and vibrant street life. It's a must-see for any visitor.
  • Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas:  This historic fortress offers a glimpse into Cartagena's colonial past and strategic importance. The castle stands as a landmark of the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Relax on the beaches of Islas del Rosario:  Just a short boat trip from Cartagena, these beautiful Caribbean islands offer white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking up the sun.
  • Walk the city walls:  The walls that once defended Cartagena from pirates and invaders now offer a scenic walk with coastal views. Strolling along these fortifications at sunset is a fantastic way to experience the city's charm and history.
  • Discover the Mercado de Bazurto:  For those looking to experience authentic Cartagena, the bustling Mercado de Bazurto is a cacophony of sights, sounds, and smells. This local market offers a range of produce, seafood, and local specialties like  arepas  and  empanadas .

Downtown Medellin, Colombia

Medellín

Once notorious for being one of the most dangerous cities globally, Medellín has transformed into a hotspot of innovation, culture, and tourism. Visit the Comuna 13 neighborhood, explore the abundant public spaces and parks, and ride the city’s impressive metro and cable cars.

The best things to do in Medellín:

  • Explore Museo de Antioquia:  Dive into Colombia's rich art history at the Museo de Antioquia, home to an extensive collection of works by Fernando Botero, one of Colombia's most famous artists. The museum, located in a former city hall, showcases not only Botero's iconic chubby figures but also offers a broad spectrum of other artworks capturing Colombia's vibrant culture.
  • Ride the Metrocable:  Gain a new perspective on Medellín by taking a ride on the Metrocable. This unique mode of transportation offers stunning aerial views of the city’s comunas (districts) and the Medellín River. It's not only a way to navigate the city but also an attraction in its own right, highlighting the city's commitment to innovative urban solutions.
  • Visit Plaza Botero:  Another nod to the celebrated artist Fernando Botero, Plaza Botero is an outdoor park filled with numerous bronze sculptures donated by Botero himself. It's a vibrant space where art and public life intersect, offering a unique chance to experience the scale and texture of Botero's work first-hand.
  • Enjoy the Greenery at Parque Arví:  A haven for nature lovers, Parque Arví is a vast park that invites visitors to enjoy a range of outdoor activities amidst lush surroundings. Hike along its trails, engage in bird watching, or browse through the small market of food and crafts. The journey to and from the park over the hills of Medellín is itself an experience, thanks to the spectacular views it offers.
  • Visit the Comuna 13 Neighborhood:  Nestled in the heart of Medellin, Colombia, Comuna 13 is a colorful testament to the resilience and artistry of its community. Once an area challenged by urban strife, it has incredibly transformed into a hub of creativity, culture, and connection.

Aerial view of Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Tayrona National Park

This stunning slice of paradise lies on the Caribbean coast, where the jungle meets the ocean. Offering golden sandy beaches and lush rainforest, the Tayrona National Park is perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike.

The best things to do in Tayrona National Park:

  • Hike the Pueblito Chairama Trail:  This challenging yet rewarding hike takes you to the ancient ruins of Pueblito, a pre-Hispanic village that was home to the Tayrona tribe. This trail not only offers you a peek into the region's fascinating history, but also serves up some of the most incredible views of the park.
  • Relax at Arrecifes Beach:  Known for its striking beauty, Arrecifes Beach is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking. Though the currents here are too strong for swimming, the serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings are sure to captivate you.
  • Swim at La Piscina:  Just a short hike from Arrecifes, La Piscina offers a safe haven for swimmers. This natural pool, enclosed by a coral reef, provides calm waters perfect for a relaxing dip.
  • Spot diverse wildlife:  Tayrona National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore, and you might spot monkeys, iguanas, and more than 300 species of birds. Remember, always respect their space and admire from a distance.
  • Watch the sunsest at Cabo San Juan : End the day at Cabo San Juan by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset over the Caribbean Sea. This spectacular sight, coupled with the location's striking natural beauty, makes it a must-add to your travel itinerary.

Palm trees in Cocora Valley, Colombia

The Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero)

Experience Colombia's coffee culture in its heartland. Visit charming towns like Salento, hike through the Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms, and tour coffee plantations to learn how your morning brew is produced.

The best things to do in Eje Cafetero:

  • Go on a coffee farm tour:  No trip to the Coffee Region is complete without visiting a coffee farm, where you can see the journey from bean to cup. You'll get to roll up your sleeves, learn the picking process, and, of course, taste some of the freshest coffee on the planet.
  • Wander through the Cocora Valley:  Stretch those legs in the stunning Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm (Colombia's national tree). If you're in for a hike, this place is a jackpot of panoramic views.
  • Relax in Santa Rosa Thermal Baths:  After all the hiking and coffee excitement, it's time to unwind in the soothing Santa Rosa Thermal Baths. The hot springs are the spa treatment that Mother Nature intended for you. Trust us, the backdrop of waterfalls and lush forest is the cherry on top!
  • Ride the Coffee Train (or La "brujita" as the locals call it):  Hop aboard La “brujita,” a quirky rail vehicle that takes you on a scenic adventure through the coffee countryside. It’s far from your average commute, with open-sided cars allowing the cool breeze to complement the view.
  • Discover the Quindio Botanical Garden and Butterfly House:  Prepare to be dazzled by the colors and diversity at the Quindio Botanical Garden. With a butterfly house featuring over 1,500 butterflies, it's an enchanting experience.

San Agustin statues, Colombia

San Agustín

This archaeological site is home to the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America — a mysterious and haunting landscape that will captivate history buffs.

The best things to do in San Agustín:

  • Explore the San Agustin Archaeological Park:
  • Step back in time at the San Agustin Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts the largest collection of pre-Columbian megalithic sculptures in South America. These mysterious statues, some standing over 7 meters tall, are scattered around the park and offer a glimpse into the region's ancient cultures.
  • Take a walk or horse ride to El Tablon, La Chaquira, La Pelota, and El Purutal:  For an adventure that combines natural beauty with archaeological wonders, a hike or horse ride to these sites is a must. The journey not only provides breathtaking views but also leads you to fascinating statues and relics outside the main park. La Chaquira, in particular, offers beautiful vistas, and the ride there isn't too strenuous, making it accessible for most travelers.
  • Visit the Magdalena Strait:  This natural wonder, where the Magdalena River narrows to a mere 2 meters wide, is truly a sight to behold. The powerful currents carving through the rock showcase the raw power of nature. It's a perfect spot for photography or simply to contemplate the natural beauty of San Agustin's landscape.

Tatacoa Desert, Colombia

Hidden Gems

Beyond Colombia’s famous landmarks lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. These five lesser-known spots offer unique adventures off the typical tourist paths.

The Tatacoa Desert

Even many Colombians miss this fascinating desert that offers a unique landscape of towering red and grey formations. It's also Colombia's second-largest arid zone and one of the best places for stargazing.

Often overlooked by international tourists, Barichara is one of Colombia’s prettiest villages. Its cobblestone streets, white-washed buildings, and terracotta roofs play perfect hosts to a lazy afternoon stroll.

Las Lajas Sanctuary

This stunning Gothic church built into the side of a cliff is a sight to behold. It's off the beaten track, but worth the trip for the architectural beauty and the surrounding canyon views.

Pacific Coast

The predominantly Afro-Colombian Pacific Coast is as rich culturally as it is in biodiversity — home to rugged beaches, dense jungle, and some of the best whale watching in the world.

La Candelaria, Bogotá

Roam around the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria, with its charming streets, colorful buildings, and lesser-known museums like Botero’s Museum, packed full of famed Colombian artist Fernando Botero’s distinctive artwork.

Aerial view of Bogota, Colombia

Bucket List Experiences

With so much on offer, it can be hard to narrow down the must-do experiences. Here are our top ten, in no particular order:

  • Rough it up on a multi-day trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida).
  • Enjoy the nightlife and learn to dance salsa in Cali, the world's salsa capital.
  • Walk through Bogotá's La Candelaria district with a cup of world-famous Colombian coffee.
  • Explore Cartagena’s historic Old Town and San Felipe Castle.
  • Go colonial in Villa de Leyva, a town where time seems to stand still.
  • Experience Afro-Colombian culture and music in the Pacific port city of Buenaventura.
  • Marvel at the River of Five Colors (Caño Cristales).
  • Hike to the top of El Penol Rock near Medellín for breathtaking views.
  • Visit the Caribbean Island of San Andrés for its crystal-clear waters.
  • Feast on  bandeja paisa , a typical mouthwatering Colombian dish.

Traveler walking down a street in Colombia

Colombia Travel Tips

Finally, let’s go over some critical travel tips:

  • Entry and exit requirements:  Passport validity for six months is essential for travelers. Most visitors do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days, but double-check before you fly.
  • Language:  Spanish is spoken across Colombia. "Hola," "por favor," and "gracias" will go a long way!
  • Currency:  The Colombian Peso (COP) is the currency. Cards are widely accepted, but always keep a small amount of cash.
  • Getting around:  Major cities have bus and taxi services, and smaller towns are often walkable. Domestic flights can save significant travel time.
  • Plugs and adapters:  Colombia uses types A and B sockets. The standard voltage is 110V, and frequency is 60Hz.

Airalo eSIM app

Colombia eSIM: Stay Connected With Airalo

Stay connected during your trip to Colombia with an  eSIM from Airalo . An eSIM is a tiny SIM that's embedded in your device and works 100% digitally. You can download an eSIM plan for your destination and instantly connect to a mobile network. There's no need to find a SIM card vendor, manage multiple SIMs, or worry about roaming fees. 

Here are just some of the benefits of using an Airalo eSIM:

  • Connect to a mobile network within minutes.
  • Choose from flexible  local, regional, and global data plans .
  • Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
  • Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
  • Need more data? Top up in the Airalo app.

You're all set to plan a trip to Colombia! Head to the Airalo store to browse  eSIMs for Colombia  and 200+ countries and regions worldwide.

Alisha is a Canadian expat based in Portugal. She’s an avid traveler and writes about all things travel and tech for Airalo.

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Coffee Region Trip Report Feb 2024 - Colombia Forum

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Coffee Region: Trip Report Feb 24

Here are some details on our trip:

Arrived Bogota airport at 5 AM; took an 8:30 AM flight to Armenia . (Clearing customs and transferring to our gate for the domestic flight took well under an hour.) In Armenia, we had arranged with our hotel to have a taxi pick us up- a splurge, but after a red –eye flight , and upon acclimating to arrival in a new country, we appreciated it.

Salento (3 nights)- highlights: Cocora Valley hike; also enjoyed Santa Rita waterfall hike via easy local bus

Filandia (3 nights) - via 20 minute jeep ride from Salento plaza. We liked Filandia better than Salento; fewer tourist and more of a working town. We especially enjoyed the plaza on Sunday- when it was full of local families. We did a guided tour of Barbas Bremen nature reserve, and a waterfall hike from our lodging.

Jerico (5 nights)- getting to Jerico from Filandia took most of a day; bus from Filandia to Periera, and then a bus to Medellin which stopped at La Pintada. From LaPintada there is transport to Jerico. We really liked Jerico- enjoyed the beautiful lush botanical garden (free) , the hike to Las Nubes, and also many walking/ hiking options from town. Interesting visits to the Jerico Center of History (free) and the decorative arts museum. Lots of restaurants and cafes and people watching on the plaza.

Jardin (6 nights) A 2 ½ hour chiva (open air colorful school bus) ride- there is one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Very bumpy and VERY dusty. (Highly recommend sitting as close to the front as possible and packing your luggage in a garbage bag; also if you are at all prone to motion sickness, take precautions.) Jardin was our favorite location. SO many beautiful hikes with waterfall as the end point. Lovely church and central plaza, plenty of restaurants and cafes. More international tourists than Jerico, but significantly quieter traffic-wise. Magical.

Medellin (5 nights) Very comfortable bus to Medellin from Jardin. We stayed in an economical apartment in Laureles- in a safe middle class neighborhood, non-touristy- ten minutes from the Metro, close to shops, cafes, bars, etc. The Medelin Metro is spotless, safe, efficient, cheap, easy to navigate. We enjoyed a free walking tour of the city our first full day, and a tour of Commun 13 our second day. Our third day we visited Botero Plaza and the Museum of Antioquia and our fourth day Park Arvi (the views from the gonad!). Since we are not city people, four nights would have been enough for us. Our last morning we got an Uber to the airport for a morning flight to Bogota, and then caught our international flight home. We gave ourselves over 3 hours in Bogota for the transfer, and were glad for the extra time.

One note: We speak intermediate Spanish, and found the Colombian Spanish -for the most part- clear and understandable. In our experience, very few people spoke English, except those working directly with tourists- so any Spanish skills is a definite plus!

We thoroughly enjoyed the trip. I know many people would have chosen to fit much more exploration of the country into a 3-week trip- but we were absolutely charmed with the coffee towns we based ourselves in, the magical countryside, the close to perfect climate, and the warmth of those we met.

4 replies to this topic

*gonad= gondola 😊

' class=

Sounds like a very relaxing trip! Thank you for posting.

Autocorrect is my frenemy. 🤭

It sounds like you had a super trip!!

Thanks for sharing your trip report.

Now this is a report! Wow so glad that you enjoyed all these stops, thanks so much for posting this as people get tired of hearing from "the usual cast of characters" (myself included in this bunch, hehehe) who respond to questions..........again thank you!

And yes Jardin, I have been visiting since 2010, more visits now than I can remember with my last visit/stay in July 2023, even brought my visiting mother and sister to Jardin back in 2020, they loved it! For these reasons I always say that Jardin is a MUST VISIT town.

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The best things to do in Colombia with kids

Laura Watilo Blake

Oct 2, 2023 • 11 min read

places to go visit in colombia

From historic towns to rainforest excursions, Colombia offers so many adventures for families © Mario Arango / Getty Images

Colombia's magic is not just a tale to be heard, but a reality to be experienced. From the beaches of the captivating Caribbean coastline to sweeping Andean vistas to awe-inspiring emerald jungles, South America's northernmost country offers unexpected surprises for families. Significant improvements in security and tourism infrastructure have rendered travel safe in the majority of Colombia , offering parents some peace of mind when visiting family-first cultural attractions and planning unforgettable escapades. Colombia holds plenty of space for children to let their imagination run wild and free and for the enchantment to reveal itself naturally. 

Rooted in strong familial ties, almost every corner of Colombia resonates with celebrations, shared meals, and a collective spirit that embraces visitors of all ages. Children are treated with special care and attention, often enjoying a VIP-like status from the moment they pass through the dedicated line for families at customs.

Is Colombia a good destination for kids?

One of the best things about traveling with children to Colombia is that it’s not hard to keep the kids actively engaged, whether they’re weaving a basket with a local artisan in the Amazon or playing in a city park with other kids. Many museums and attractions in the country offer discounted admission for children under 12 (some up to 50% off the regular price) while other museums are free. In Bogotá , there are more than 50 museums and art galleries, and most are open to the public for free or reduced rates on the last Sunday of the month. 

Dining out in Colombia is often a family affair, so there are plenty of restaurants that cater to kids. Andrés Carne de Res , known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Colombian fare, has face painting and crafts, plus a petting zoo and playground at its original location in Chia. Other kid-friendly chains are Crepes & Waffles, El Corral, Frisby, and Archy's. Elsewhere, you can sometimes find a children's menu, smaller portions, high chairs, and, sometimes, activities and games. It can take a long time for food to be served, so always have snacks ready to go. 

Luckily, numerous bakeries, mom-and-pop convenience stores, and mobile food carts fill the gap for quick bites. Colombian cuisine balances familiar flavors and mild spices, making it accessible to young palates. Arepas (corn-flour pancakes) are a staple accompaniment at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which often includes chicken with rice and a side of crispy fried plantains. Delicious, fresh-squeezed juices served with most meals are made from the many exotic fruits grown in the country. It’s a good introduction to new flavors in a thirst-quenching form.

Two young boys fish on a pier in a forested area of Colombia

Where are the best places to travel in Colombia with kids?

When seeking the ideal destinations for a family getaway in Colombia, one's focus naturally gravitates toward a seamless travel experience. The primary international gateway cities – Bogotá, Medellín , Cali , and Cartagena – present a variety of cultural attractions, city parks, and shopping multiplexes that make them kid-friendly. The allure of these major cities lies in their rich tapestry of history and modernity, offering a blend of educational experiences and urban entertainment.

However, Colombia's travel experiences extend well beyond its cityscapes. Families eager to immerse themselves in the country's remarkable biodiversity and natural wonders will enjoy venturing into smaller towns that boast adventurous pursuits and proximity to national parks. Escape the urban bustle of Medellín by heading to the colorful town of Guatapé , where fascinating architecture collides with recreational opportunities on a picturesque reservoir. From Cali, venture to San Cipriano Rainforest Reserve for river tubing and a ride along an abandoned railway in the jungle. Head east from Cartagena to visit the awe-inspiring Tayrona National Park and the world’s highest coastal mountains, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta . As for Bogotá, short domestic flights grant easy access to even more remarkable destinations – whether it's the Amazon , the Zona Cafetera (Coffee Triangle) , or the Caribbean islands of San Andrés and Providencia, both geographically closer to Nicaragua than the Colombian coast.

A group of young girls splash in the ocean on the Colombian coast

Best things to do in Colombia with babies and toddlers

Indulge in a day – or three – of relaxation and adventure on parque tayrona’s beaches .

Parque Tayrona, one of Colombia’s most-visited national parks, is home to some of the country’s most idyllic beaches, packed with plenty of soft sand for hours of sensory play. Encompassing nearly 100 square miles of untamed beauty, the park is filled with rewarding vistas, such as the wildly popular Cabo San Juan del Guia. That location requires a long jungle hike to reach, which may be tough while also carrying small children, their diapers, snacks, towels, toys, and other beach necessities.

For a more accessible path to beachfront bliss, try Bahia Concha and Playa Cañaveral. Located at the western end of the park near Santa Marta, Bahia Concha presents a tranquil oasis in the form of a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay. Here, the waters are gentle, perfect for a worry-free dip with your little swimmers. And for those moments when nap time beckons, rest assured that rentable tents and lounge chairs offer shady respite. And you don't have to get out of your seat to order food and drink. 

Alternatively, Playa Cañaveral, located on the eastern fringes of the park, is not just a day trip destination. Stay at Ecohabs Tequendama inside the park boundary. The decked-out huts offer the best of both worlds – proximity to the water, so close you can practically hear the waves lapping, and a level of comfort that guarantees the family's well-being.

Take it to the streets during Bogotá’s weekly Sunday Ciclovía

Every Sunday, 128 kilometers (80 miles) of Bogotá's main thoroughfares close to vehicular traffic between 7am and 2pm for the Ciclovía – a captivating car-free day that is a breath of fresh air compared to the city's ever-present traffic jam. Families take to the streets on bikes, skateboards, scooters, roller skates, hoverboards, wagons, and tricycles, weaving through the urban tapestry along these open lanes of leisure. Many of the routes link the city's green spaces, historic sites, and museums, making it a great way to check out places like the Museo de los Niños near the Parque Simón Bolivar, the graffiti of La Candelaria or the Mercado de las Pulgas, a weekend affair of crafts, food, and entertainment in the affluent suburb of Usaquén.

Bike shops throughout the city rent bikes, repair flat tires, and handle other mishaps during the day. Child carriers are hard to come by, though. Try Bogota Travel Tours in La Candelaria, which rents a bike equipped with a baby seat and a child-size helmet for four hours at a rate of COP $70,000 (approximately US$19). If you can’t procure a bike, it’s perfectly acceptable to head out on foot, pushing the kiddos in a stroller.

A woman stands in a valley of sky high wax palms in Colombia's coffee region

Best things to do in Colombia with kids

Explore the bountiful countryside of the world-renowned eje cafetero, or coffee triangle.

While coffee might be a pleasure primarily relished by adults, Colombia's oldest and most illustrious coffee region is filled to the brim with outdoor adventures for all ages. Embarking from one of the three cities – Manizales, Pereira, and Armenia – that form the Coffee Triangle, head into the Andean landscape, dotted with sprawling coffee and dairy farms, colorful towns, hidden hot springs, and verdant valleys.

Get a double shot of excitement at Parque del Café , a theme park located on a working coffee plantation. You can delve into the history and process of coffee production when not busy screaming with joy on the thrill rides, which include the longest rollercoaster in all of Colombia. 

The nearby Valle de Cocora involves a 20-minute ride in an open-air Jeep Willys from the town of Salento . This local public transportation is a wild roller-coaster ride on four wheels, especially for the adventurous souls clinging to the back bumper. Once you arrive, hike or horseback ride through the valley, surrounded by wax palms so sky-high they nearly break through the clouds.

Finally, pay a visit to Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal , where nature's hot tub is heated by geothermal activity from the El Ruiz volcano. The baths are set amid a tapestry of lush greenery punctuated by a cascading waterfall. You can even snooze at its upmarket hotel, designed to look like a Swiss chalet.

Escape to the Caribbean island of San Andrés for sun, sand, and snorkeling

The island of San Andrés remains a largely off-the-beaten-track Caribbean getaway, despite direct flights from the US and mainland Colombia. It's a great place for aspiring underwater adventurers since it sits along the third-largest coral reef in the world. Diving trips and boat excursions to Johnny Cay and Cayo El Acuario are popular, but the most accessible and kid-friendly spots to don a mask and snorkel are on the island's rocky west side. Side-by-side waterparks, Eco Parque West View and Reggae Roots, rent gear and life vests. West View has a twisting waterslide, while Reggae Roots has a shallower spot to enter the water. From either location, fearless swimmers can swim out to the sunken statue of Poseidon resting on the sea floor, eight meters (26ft) below the water’s surface. It’s an underwater destination for scuba divers or an Aquanautas helmet-diving excursion.

The island’s best beaches, such as San Luis and Rocky Cay, can be found on the eastern flank of the island, which has a wide range of accommodations for the family on or near the sand. Local buses pass frequently for ease of getting around, but it’s a lot of fun to rent a golf cart to explore the island at your leisure.

Best things to do in Colombia with teenagers and tweenagers

Get wild in the amazon.

With countless tales of untouched Indigenous communities, elusive jaguars, shockingly large snakes, and rambunctious monkeys hidden deep within the jungle, it’s no wonder the Amazon rainforest evokes a sense of wonder in both kids and adults. For a truly out-of-the-ordinary experience, begin your adventure in Leticia , a steamy town bordering Peru and Brazil. At dusk, visit the Parque Santander for its nightly nature show, when hordes of colorful parrots eclipse the setting sun as they descend upon the park’s trees to bed down – accompanied by a deafening hum of beating wings and loud shrieks. Speaking from experience, bring wipes to clean up any unwanted fecal matter that lands on you.

From Leticia, voyage deeper into nature’s mysteries along the Amazon River, which winds along the southern border of Colombia for 150km on its journey from the Peruvian Andes to the Atlantic Ocean. As your boat glides along, you’ll get a glimpse of life in the tiny villages that dot the riverbanks. Plan to stay a few nights at an eco-lodge connected to one of these Indigenous communities for a feeling of total immersion. Just don’t tell the kids internet and cellular service is extremely limited or non-existent. 

Lodge staff can arrange other excursions, whether you want to watch pink river dolphins frolic in the wild, go piranha fishing, participate in a traditional Indigenous dance, take a night hike for a chance to spot nocturnal creatures, or visit the nearby river town of Puerto Nariño, where you can climb to the top of a look-out tower for a birds-eye view of the territory. An Amazon escapade promises unforgettable moments even if you just want to lie in your hammock at sunrise, listening to the hum of boat engines competing with the rhythms of the natural world awakening – croaking frogs, insects, birds, and the sound of rustling branches bending from the weight of micos (small monkeys) grabbing for fruits and seeds in the canopy.

Feel the adrenaline rush in San Gil, Colombia's capital of adventure sports

You don’t have to be a fan of extreme sports to fall in love with San Gil. The 300-year-old Andean town on the bank of the Río Fonce has its share of breathtaking vistas, including lush moss-covered trees thriving against a backdrop of green hills and pristine rivers carving their way through deep gorges and leaping over rock faces. However, families with the correct dose of courage and determination can take on some of the daring activities for which the Santander town has become famous. 

While heart-pounding bungee jumps, exhilarating mountain-biking trails and the thrill of paragliding, caving, canyoning and torrentismo (waterfall rappelling) are all on the menu, whitewater rafting put this adventure town on the map. Experienced rafters take on the mighty and unpredictable Class V rapids of the Río Suarez or the Río Chicamocha, which delivers Class III and IV rapids as it winds through a dramatic canyon. For a more relaxing ride with kids seven and up, the Río Fonce may be more your speed. 

Planning tips

  • Broken, uneven sidewalks, cobblestone pavers, and buildings without ramps or elevators make it difficult to navigate Colombia with a stroller. Bring a baby carrier for wheel-free transportation. 
  • Always check for discounts for children. Even if it’s not advertised, you may be able to negotiate a descuento para niños  (discount for kids). 
  • If you’re traveling with little ones, be sure to ask about the minimum age requirement before booking tours and attractions. 
  • Outside of major city shopping centers, bathrooms can be small and cramped for one, let alone a parent and child. Baby-changing stations aren’t standard, and are rare in men’s restrooms.
  • Attitudes about breastfeeding in public are slow to change. Bogotá’s El Dorado airport has added lactation booths throughout the terminal.
  • In addition to food delivery, you can order diapers, pain relievers, groceries, clothing, and toys all to be delivered to your accommodations with the mobile app Rappi. The service currently works in the cities of Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Bucuramanga. 

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  1. 15 Best Places to Visit in Colombia

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COMMENTS

  1. 13 of the best places to visit in Colombia

    Many family-run fincas (farms) have opened their doors to curious tourists, with day tours and overnight stays offering a deep dive into coffee culture. Planning tip: Organize your transport to coffee country from the regional hubs of Manizales and Pereira. 4. Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona.

  2. 20 Best Places to Visit in Colombia

    Tatacoa Desert. oscar garces/Getty Images. The Tatacoa Desert is the second-largest arid environment in Colombia, after the dune-studded La Guajira at the northern tip of South America. However ...

  3. 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colombia

    Colombia is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. Whether you want to explore the colonial cities of Bogotá and Cartagena, hike the Andes mountains, visit the coffee plantations, or enjoy the tropical beaches, you will find something to suit your taste in this South American gem. Find out more about the 14 top-rated attractions and places to visit ...

  4. 14 of the best things to do in Colombia

    1. Photograph Colombia's national plant in the Valle de Cocora. Adjoining the lower reaches of Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados, one of the best national parks for hiking in Colombia, the Valle de Cocora is one of the country's most breathtakingly beautiful destinations.A land of lush green farmland divided by rushing mountain rivers, it's home to swathes of lofty Quindío wax palms ...

  5. 31 Best Places to Visit in Colombia in 2023: Cities & Nature

    Best places to visit in Colombia: Beaches & islands. 27. The Rosario Islands, pristine beaches & reefs. 28. San Andres Island, the best sunsets in Colombia. 29. Taganga, one of the best places to visit in Colombia for diving. 30. Tayrona National Park, where the jungle meets the ocean.

  6. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Colombia

    2023. 3. Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) 14,562. Speciality Museums. The Banco de la República Gold Museum houses one of the most important collections of pre-Hispanic metallurgy in the world. As its history, which dates back to 1939, has unfolded, so this institution has become a symbol of Colombia's cultural memory.

  7. My 21 Favorite Places to Visit in Colombia

    1. Cartagena. Cartagena is one of the most visited destinations in Colombia (thanks to a lot of direct flights and cruise ship visits). Dating back to 1533, the city is famed for its colonial Old Town: a maze of cobbled alleys, flower-covered balconies, and giant churches on spacious plazas.

  8. 14 Best Places to Visit in Colombia (+Map)

    5. Zona Cafetera. Travelers who love their java will definitely want to visit Zona Cafetera (Eje Cafetero) where almost half of Colombia's coffee crop is grown on the slopes of the Andes. Referred to as the "Coffee Triangle", Zona Cafetera is situated between Bogota, Medellin, and Cali.

  9. 31 Best Places to Visit in Colombia: Adventure & Relaxation

    6. Get your adrenaline pumping in San Gil. Leaving the north coast, thrill-seekers will revel in visiting San Gil, the adventure sports capital of Colombia. There is no shortage of things to do, as visitors can choose between zip-lining, abseiling, white-water rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

  10. Colombia travel

    13 things to know before visiting Colombia Feb 29, 2024 • 9 min read Have an unforgettable trip to Colombia with these planning tips on everything from transport to health, safety and etiquette.

  11. 29 Unforgettable Things to Do in Colombia: The Ultimate List

    Attend Feria de Cali, Colombia's premier salsa festival. Take a street art tour in Cartagena's Getsemani. Learn how to make empanadas at a Colombian cooking class. Eat tropical fruits at the markets in Medellin. Try the tasting menu at Leo in Bogota - one of the best things to do in Colombia for gastronomes.

  12. 20 Best Places To Visit In Colombia

    Isla Barú. Until recently, Isla Barú was mostly a destination for day trippers looking for the best beaches near Cartagena. The recent addition of the Sofitel Barú Casablanca Beach Resort changes all that, making this "island" just 45 minutes from the city an increasingly popular destination all its own.

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    5. If you have some time, I recommend visiting Explora Park. It's an impressive science museum with a nice aquarium and lots of interactive science games. Best places to visit in Medellin, Colombia: Comuna 13, Plaza Botero, Museo Casa de la Memoria, Museum of Antioquia, Park Arvi, Explora Park, El Poblado.

  14. 15 BEST Places to Visit in Colombia [2024 GUIDE]

    2. Rosario Islands. Sticking to the coast, the next area on my list of best places to visit in Colombia is the Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario). Located about an hour from Cartagena, the islands are part of a national park and offer the gorgeous Caribbean island experience that Cartagena is sorely missing.

  15. 50 BEST Things to do in Colombia (Your 2024 Bucket-List!)

    The tour company, Colombia Rafting Expeditions, is very experienced and has high safety standards. You can choose from this full-day tour on Class 5 rapids or this half-day Class 3 trip if you'd prefer a slower-paced (less scary!)rafting experience. 17. River kayaking in San Gil.

  16. 20 BEST Places to Visit in Colombia (2024 Guide!)

    17. Leticia. A monkey on Isla de Los Micos, Leticia, Colombia. The Amazon jungle is one of the must-visit places in the world. But, what many people don't know is that you can visit the Amazon Jungle in Colombia. Leticia is just one of a few places to visit the Amazon in Colombia, but in my opinion, the best choice.

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    La Candelaria: A unique checkpoint for tourists to experience the beauty of Colombian architecture, art galleries, and museums. Mount Monserrate: Take an eagle view of Bogotá from the top of a mountain. Best time to visit: December-February, July-August. Best places to eat: Santa Fe Café and Restaurant, Storia D'amore, Omnia,Cantina La 15.

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    Spread the loveColombia, a country that sits at the northern tip of South America, is endowed with a tapestry of vibrant cities, serene beaches, and some of the most biodiverse landscapes in the world. According to locals and travel experts, these are the 20 best places to visit in Colombia: 1.Cartagena: Known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively squares, Cartagena is ...

  19. 20 Best Places To Visit In Colombia

    Isla Barú. Until recently, Isla Barú was mostly a destination for day trippers looking for the best beaches near Cartagena. The recent addition of the Sofitel Barú Casablanca Beach Resort changes all that, making this "island" just 45 minutes from the city an increasingly popular destination all its own.

  20. Best places to visit in Colombia

    The Amazon: one of the best sites to visit in Colombia. The Amazon doesn't need an introduction. One of the most exuberant places in the world, the inspiration of hundreds of stories. Travel South of Colombia to the city of Leticia, and discover its warm, loving locals. Indigenous people with unique traditions.

  21. 13 things to know before traveling to Colombia

    Stick to exploring one section of the country and exploring it well: spend three weeks bouncing between sun-soaked, Caribbean beaches or heading from Medellín deep into the Zona Cafetera. Your trip should match Colombia's characteristic pace: slow and enjoyable. 2. Domestic flights are affordable and quick.

  22. 21 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Colombia

    It is a reason to come back one day. # 23 RAINY AND DRY SEASON. If there's something you should know before planning your trip to Colombia, is that you can experience two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. According to us, Colombia is a country you can visit any time of the year, but you should consider those seasons.

  23. 20 Breathtaking Places to Discover in Colombia

    7. Medellin. As of 1991-92, Medellin was officially the murder capital of the world. Pablo Escobar had set up shop and was throwing money at anyone in a position of power and killing anyone who chose to go honest. At the same time, the Colombian civil war simultaneously raged on.

  24. 20 amazing places to visit in Colombia

    Here are 20 incredible places to visit in this South American country that are more than worth the trip. ... It is also one of Colombia's best places to go diving and admire the coral reefs ...

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    The best time to visit; Top attractions; Hidden gems to explore; Bucket list experiences; Travel tips; Stay connected with a Colombia eSIM; Unsplash. Best Time to Visit Colombia. Colombia boasts a range of climates due to its topography, with coasts, jungles, and mountains, but the temperature remains fairly consistent year-round in each region.

  26. Coffee Region Trip Report Feb 2024

    Answered: Coffee Region: Trip Report Feb 24 Thanks to all those on TA who responded to questions while we planned our trip. Here's a report of our 3-week slow travel trip in the Colombian coffee region. We visited Salento, Filandia, Jerico, Jardin and...

  27. The best things to do in Colombia with kids

    Bike shops throughout the city rent bikes, repair flat tires, and handle other mishaps during the day. Child carriers are hard to come by, though. Try Bogota Travel Tours in La Candelaria, which rents a bike equipped with a baby seat and a child-size helmet for four hours at a rate of COP $70,000 (approximately US$19).