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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.

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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.

Related Articles

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

More on Colombia

Wander-Lush

31 Best Places to Visit in Colombia: Cities, Pueblos, Beaches & Hiking

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for every traveller. Here are 31 of the very best places to visit in Colombia , as recommended by me and other travel experts.

Colourful pueblos , fascinating cities, stunning national parks and idyllic beaches: Colombia has it all.

It wasn’t all that long ago that tourists avoided Colombia. But times have definitely changed. Nowadays this gem of South America tops many a travel wish list.

Diverse in every sense of the word, people often rightly describe Colombia as several nations – each with its own landscapes, traditions, culture and cuisine – rolled into one.

From the Caribbean coastline to the edge of the Amazon, Spanish colonial towns to modern metropolises, Colombia tourist spots to hidden gems, these are the 31 very best places to travel in Colombia .

• Also read: The best things to do in Colombia this year – immersive experiences & hands-on activities

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.

Best cities to visit in Colombia

1. medellin, the best city to visit in colombia.

Colombia’s second-biggest city was once considered the most dangerous city in the world. But not anymore. Thanks to some imaginative civil projects and the will and resilience of local residents, Medellin has emerged from its shadowy past to become one of the best places to visit in Colombia.

Dubbed the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, Medellin is located in a rich and fertile part of Colombia responsible for producing much of the country’s coffee, fruit and flowers. The city itself is surprisingly large: Brick houses spread out for miles in every direction, best viewed from lookouts accessed via cable cars connected to the only metro system in Colombia.

The highlights of Medellin include the Museo de Casa de la Memoria, a tasteful homage to the city’s tumultuous past, and Comuna 13 , a set of barrios that cling to the side of the hill and provide a canvas for Medellin’s best street art.

Spend your days in Medellin visiting fruit markets , sipping on freshly squeezed OJ and nibbling on empanadas and arepas. Or you can skip over to El Poblado, the city’s most affluent area, and enjoy the many restaurants. Take a stroll through Laureles, a delightful inner-city suburb filled with parks, cafes and bars.

Take a selfie in Plaza Botero (which is lined with sculptures by the Medellin-born artist), and if you’re lucky enough to be in town on the first weekend of the month, drop into the San Alejo Handicraft Market for some authentic Colombian souvenirs .

Medellin is the biggest transport hub in Antioquia Department and a perfect departure point for exploring Colombia’s coffee belt and the colourful colonial towns that characterise this part of the country. It’s worth spending at two or three days in the city itself – most of your time should be dedicated to eating and drinking.

• Get there: Fly into Jose Cordova International Airport (1-hour flight from Bogota).
• Stay: 574 Hotel – Boutique on a budget near Lleras Park in El Poblado, with bright, tidy rooms and breakfast included. Or try one of these unique Medellin Airbnbs .

2. Cartagena, one of the most beautiful places in Colombia

The port city of Cartagena was founded in 1533. One of the best places in Colombia for vibrant architecture and culture, several parts of Cartagena were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Because of its location on the Caribbean coast, Cartagena has a unique feel. Visitors to the city also enjoy easy access to beaches, islands and jungle trekking.

The city itself is divided into three neighbourhoods: Getsemani, San Sebastian and Santa Catalina (where you’ll find the iconic cathedral and many of the most recognisable streets and buildings), plus San Diego, traditionally home to Cartagena’s merchants.

Must-dos in Cartagena include climbing the Castillo fortress for a view, roaming the Plaza Santo Domingo, and shopping for souvenirs at Las Bovedas covered market. If the bustling UNESCO Walled City gets to be too much, make a break for one of the stunning beaches nearby or charter a boat to Colombia’s Caribbean islands.

As you explore Cartagena by foot, keep an eye out for the famous Palenqueras , fruit sellers dressed in vibrant costume and carting baskets of tropical goodies. They’re hard to miss!

• Get there: Fly into Rafael Nunez International Airport (1-hour flight from Medellin; 1.5-hour flight from Bogota).
• Stay: Hotel Boutique Casona del Colegio – Beautiful colonial-inspired rooms with tiled floors and four-poster beds, an infinity pool and garden terrace set in a heritage building 100m from Bolivar Park.

3. Bogota, Colombia’s dynamic capital city

The largest city in Colombia and the nation’s capital, Bogota is an essential stop on any Colombia itinerary.

The Spaniards founded Santa Fe de Bogota in 1538 at a breathtaking altitude of 8,661 feet. Nestled at the foot of green mountains, it is nowadays a bustling city and home to more than 11 million people.

To get the best overview of the colonial old town, the business district and the outskirts stretching far to the horizon, you can take the cable car to the top of Monserrate (10,340 feet).

Stunning historic buildings line the narrow streets of the old town, Barrio Del Candelaria. The heart of the city is the Plaza Bolivar, where musicians regularly perform and other events take place.

On Sundays and public holidays, the main road Carrera Septima is closed for cyclists, inline skaters, joggers, and walkers. After the sporting performance, a folk festival takes place in the streets.

Plan for at least two days in Bogotá to visit the main sights , more if you’d like to see surrounding attractions or if you’re lucky enough that one of the many festivals is taking place so you can swing the dancing leg Bogota’s to salsa rhythms.

• Get there: Fly into El Dorado International Airport (1-hour flight from Medellin).
• Stay: GHL Hotel Bioxury – Efficient rooms with modern bathrooms and a lovely shared atrium space walking distance from El Retiro.
• By Marcelle from Grey World Nomads

4. Cali, Colombia’s salsa capital

Cali is best known by outsiders as the former home of the infamous Cali Cartel. Many travellers skip it without knowing this Colombian city is famous for something else as well.

If you’re interested in learning how to salsa dance, Cali is considered the world capital of salsa. I spent two months there taking group salsa lessons in the afternoon and practicing what I learned at night at local haunts such as Tin Tin Deo.

Colombians are some of the friendliest people in the world. They understand that everyone begins somewhere, and so you don’t need to be shy if you’re new to salsa. At the clubs I danced the night away and took shots of aguardiente with new friends, who taught me to how to fit in by learning Colombian slang .

Cali is also home to the world salsa championships where you can watch kids as young as four and five years compete in individual or group events. It lasts several days over several venues and is a great way to see Cali from a local perspective.

• Get there: Fly into Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (1-hour flight from Bogota or Medellin).
• Stay: Alko Hotel Casa Nispero – Stunning boutique rooms with exposed rafters and a central courtyard complete with pool close to Cali City Theatre.
• By Ayngelina from Bacon is Magic

5. Popayan, one of the country’s finest colonial cities

Popayan is located in the Cauca Department in the west of Colombia. It’s one of the top destinations in Colombia for a stopover when travelling by bus from Ecuador to the city of Cali.

Popayan, otherwise known as La Ciudad Blanca (‘the white city’), is definitely worth a stopover for at least two nights (more if you can spare it). The climate is much milder than sweltering Cali, and with all the charm of a typical colonial town, the small city provides a great introduction to Colombia.

The colonial centre is a beautiful tribute to post-colonial Spanish architecture and one could easily spend days exploring the cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings. The Iglesia San Francisco in the old town is worth a look, and you can take a tour through the building to view a collection of mummies which were discovered after an earthquake damaged the building in the 1980s.

If you’re looking for more adventurous activities, you can hike up El Morro de Tulcan, a viewpoint over the city that housed an Indian pyramid dating back to the 1500s. It’s a great place to catch the sunset and is easy walking distance from the city centre (or a cheap taxi ride away).

• Get there: 2.5-3 hours by road from Cali.
• Stay: Hotel Dann Monasterio – Comfortable rooms in a 1570 Franciscan convent with swimming pool, Spanish galleries and a central courtyard.
• By Emma from Mum’s Money

Best places to visit in Colombia: Small towns & pueblos

6. guatape, colombia’s most colourful town.

Guatape is often called ‘the most colourful town in Colombia’. With tiny streets, colourful houses and clusters of joyful tourists, this place is straight out of Disneyland!

Guatape is located 10 minutes’ drive away from La Piedra, one of the largest free-standing rocks in the world. Since the whole region is quite small, one day for both these Colombia is more than enough.

After spending the morning hiking La Piedra, you can dedicate the afternoon to marvelling at Guatape’s lively roads. A few cafes sit just across from the central plaza, providing ample opportunities for people-watching.

Needless to say, the colours that decorate Guatape’s streets are spectacular. From bright reds to rich blues, you’ve never seen such charming houses.

• Get there: 2 hours by road from Medellin.
• Day trip: Guatape, Piedra del Penol and boat tour departing from Medellin (11 hours; from $36 per person).
• Stay: Oak Tree House – An atmospheric retreat with wide outdoor balconies just outside the centre of Guatape.
• By Daisy from Beyond My Border

7. Jardin, a typical colonial town in the coffee region

Located in the heart of Antioquia’s coffee region, Jardin is another pretty pueblo with a long and vibrant history. Here too, residents paint the facades of their homes with bright colours and hang flowers from their windowsills and awnings.

The centre of Jardin is characterised by an impressive cathedral built from locally hewn rock and a main plaza paved with river stones. You’re never far away from nature in Jardin: It’s just a few minutes’ drive to waterfalls and forest paths, birdwatching areas and mountain trails.

In town, boutiques sell locally made handicrafts and you can sample sweet treats at a generations-old candy shop (even the Pope is a fan).

Not surprising for a town so close to coffee country, Jardin has a wealth of local drinking holes and uber-trendy cafes that roast beans grown in the hills around the town.

What makes Jardin one of the best places to visit in Colombia is the feeling of community. Plan to spend a few days in Jardin, but don’t be surprised if you wind up staying longer.

• Get there: 3-3.5 hours by road from Medellin.
• Stay: Casa Passiflora Hotel Boutique – Elegant rooms behind a traditional brightly painted facade a few blocks from the main square.

8. Jerico, a hidden gem in Antioquia

Jerico is a smaller and lesser-known town located roughly halfway between Jardin and Medellin. It’s a gruelling twist-and-turn-heavy bus ride to get up the mountainside, but it’s well worth the journey to visit one of the most interesting places in Colombia.

Jerico is still relatively off the international tourist radar. (Until recently, you couldn’t even find it in Lonely Planet.) Plenty of Colombian tourists come here, many of them pilgrims visiting the birthplace of Santa Laura, Colombia’s first and only saint, who was born in Jerico in 1874 and is something of a local icon.

Jerico remains a tight-knit, deeply pious community. There are no fewer than 17 churches in town and a seminary with a healthy population of 40-plus would-be priests – not bad for a small town of just over 12,000 people.

Museums, historical libraries and a charming botanical garden are among the top things to do in town. Jerico even has its own mini Christ the Redeemer statue, which offers great views over the city.

Like Jardin, Jerico is also a good base for coffee tourism. La Nohelia is a local farm that offers ecotourism activities (including coffee tours) and onsite accommodation.

If the great outdoors is calling, take an early morning hike to Las Nubes, a lookout that leads you high into the clouds, and pay a visit to Ecoland to try tandem paragliding over the lush valley.

In town, climb the giant stone staircases that connect the upper and lower parts of Jerico. Drop into workshops to watch craftsman making carriels , traditional leather bags, and drink local coffee at El Saturia and Don Rafa. Don’t miss Bomarzo, a recently opened multipurpose creative space that houses galleries, cafes and artist studios.

An ideal place to base your stay in Jerico is El Despertar , a boutique hotel set in an Antioquian-style mansion house.

• Get there: 3-3.5 hours by road from Medellin; 2.5 hours by road from Jardin.
• Stay: El Despertar Hotel – Beautiful rooms with hammocks and ensuite bathrooms set inside a historic Antioquian home in the heart of town.

9. Villa de Leyva, home of Colombia’s biggest Spanish Square

With its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and white-washed facades, Villa de Leyva is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia. It’s best know for being home to the biggest Spanish Square in the country, the 150,000 square-foot Plaza Mayor.

Located under 100 miles (160km) from Bogota (or about 3.5 hours by car or bus), this charming town is a favourite destination for both local and international travellers. In fact, the town is so pretty and well-preserved that it is a popular filming location for period films and TV shows. When you walk around its cobblestone streets, it feels like you’re stuck in time.

Besides the 16th-century architecture and historical museums, Villa de Leyva is set in a valley that is rich in fossils from the Cretaceous era. So you can also see some fine specimens on display at the specialised museums in the area. Villa de Leyva also has a thriving gastronomic scene, so it’s a great place to taste some of the best local dishes Colombia has to offer.

Villa de Leyva is a great stopover if you’re travelling between Bogota and San Gil. It’s recommended to spend at least two days to really soak up the timeless atmosphere.

• Get there: 3.5-4 hours by road from Bogota.
• Day trip: Villa de Leyva day tour departing Bogota (11 hours; from $179 per group).
• Stay: Maria Bonita Hotel – Colonial-style rooms with a central courtyard three blocks from the town square.
• By Bianca from Nomad Biba

10. Palomino, a quaint surf town on the Caribbean Coast

Palomino is a quiet surf town located on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, close to Santa Marta. Unlike its neighbour, Palomino’s tourism is still in its infancy, offering a more laid-back and relaxed vibe.

Known for its stunning beaches and seaside cafes, Palomino is a popular destination for backpackers, surfers and nature lovers, who often stay in this beach town to explore nearby Tayrona National Park and the mountain village of Minca (coming up later on this list!).

In Palomino, you’ll find a single central dusty foot road lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes. This leads to La Playa Palomino, a magnificent beach with soft sand, clear turquoise waters and great opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.

In addition to the beaches, Palomino is surrounded by lush jungle and the pristine Palomino river, which is a great place to float in clean waters or go tubing downstream toward the sea.

Additionally, this tourist town is one of the most unique places in South America, since you’ll be able to spot the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta straight from the beach!

Plan at least 2-3 days to explore the surrounding region, or a week if you’re looking for a place to relax and wind down.

• Get there: 1.5-2 hours by road from Santa Marta.
• Stay: Palomino Sunrise – beautiful eco-huts right near the edge of the beach and adjacent to the Palomino River.
• By Olly from We Seek Travel

11. Raquira, pottery capital of Colombia

Raquira is as colourful as nearby Villa de Leyva is white. The brightly painted facades in this town bring a smile to your face, and you can easily spend a couple of hours wandering around as part of a day trip or stopover.

This charming little village is widely known as the pottery capital of Colombia. Just about every piece of Colombian ceramic you can buy was made in this tiny town. So you know what to do if you have some spare room in your backpack. Fully packed? Indulge in a pottery workshop and return home with memories instead.

Though pottery is dominant, it’s not the only type of souvenir you can buy in Raquira. All kinds of artisanías – from hammocks, to Mochilas (the pretty handwoven bags from Northern Colombia) and clothing – can be bought here for a fraction of the price you’d pay in Bogota.

Buses leave for Raquira about five times daily from Villa de Leyva. It’s a 30 minute trip. Four hours is enough for lunch and to pick up some souvenirs. Try to sneak in a bit of people watching on the little plaza as well. A good day to visit is on Sunday, when the local market is in full swing.

• Get there: 3.5 hours by road from Bogota; 45 minutes by road from Villa de Leyva.
• Stay: Hosteria Campestre San Fermin – Simple rooms on a leafy property with a large garden.
• By Barbara from Travel Gear For Kids

12. Guadalupe, a must visit town in Colombia for nature lovers

This tiny town in the Santander Department of Colombia is not easy to get to, but make the effort and you won’t regret it. You will fall in love with Guadalupe the moment you arrive.

A five or six-hour bus ride north of Bogota to Oiba, then another hour to Guadalupe by jeep, you could be forgiven for thinking the trip isn’t worthwhile. However, when you arrive in Guadalupe you will realise it’s all been worth it.

The town itself is just a few streets centred around the main square, with locals usually riding around on horseback or motorbike.

What is really special about Guadalupe is the surrounding nature and outdoor activities on offer. Las Gachas de Guadalupe are naturally jacuzzi plunge pools formed in a shallow river, where you can enjoy a dip in the warm water. If you’re feeling brave, you can slide along the smooth rocks and drop into the water.

They earned the nickname the ‘Caño Cristales of Santander’, and although the water isn’t as colourful as the real thing, the red rock at Las Gachas is just as picturesque. The scenery around Guadalupe is beautiful, and as well as Las Gachas, there are other natural swimming pools, waterfalls and caves to explore too.

Although there aren’t too many tourists here, at the weekend tour groups from Bogota or Bucaramanga arrive, so visit during the week if you want Guadalupe to yourself.

It’s recommended to spend at least a couple of nights here, but if you love nature and adventure, then there is plenty to keep you busy for several days.

• Get there: 2 hours by road from San Gil Airport (2.5-hour flight from Bogota); 6 hours by road from Bogota.
• Stay: El Portal De Don Luis – Simple rooms with a shared terrace, onsite restaurant and old-fashioned Colombian hospitality.
• By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

13. Aracataca, the birthplace of Gabriel García Márquez

A must-visit for literature buffs, the small town of Aracataca in the Caribbean Magdalena Department is best known for being the birthplace of Colombia’s national author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Founded in 1885, the river town is small and sleepy. The main attraction is of course the Casa Museo (Museum House), set inside the home where Nobel Prize-winning Garcia Marquez was raised. It contains exhibitions of photographs, letters penned by the author, and various personal mementos.

As you wander the streets of Aracataca on a day trip from Santa Marta, you’ll see various tributes to Garcia Marquez including murals and sculptures.

See if you can’t spot some of the landmarks that inspired the fictional village of Macondo, the setting for his much-loved novel, One Hundred Years of Solitude .

• Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Santa Marta.
• Stay: Casa Turística Realismo Mágico – A unique accommodation inspired by Garcia Marquez’s magical realism.

14. San Jeronimo, an underrated small town near Medellin

After a couple of visits to the South American country, San Jeronimo remains one of the most underrated places I have visited in Colombia.

The Antioquian town is located in close proximity to the mountains and offers a quiet respite from hectic Medellin, which sits around an hour and a half away.

Once you arrive in the sleepy, yet quintessentially Colombian town, you will be greeted with smiles, the smell of fruit, and fresh mountain air. There are many cafes, small shops, and terraced restaurants waiting to be visited by the very few tourists who frequent the streets of the town.

The best thing about San Jeronimo isn’t in the town’s centre, however – it lies an hour’s tuk-tuk drive away in the mountains, and is called Hostal La Finca. This guesthouse, which is owned by Colombians and Germans, is one of the most relaxing places in the country. They have a large pool, gardens for yoga, and homemade Colombian cuisine made with fruit from the many trees surrounding the property.

There are waterfalls nearby that you can hike to, and the lodge prides itself on being eco-friendly. I have never traveled somewhere and come back so refreshed. A quick weekend getaway to San Jeronimo is highly recommended for anyone who is visiting Medellin .

• Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Medellin; 30 minutes by road from Santa Fe de Antioquia.
• Stay: Hostel la Finca or San Jeronimo Cabaña – Comfortable holiday home with a sauna close to the centre of town.
• By Megan from Megan Starr

15. San Gil, the adventure capital of Colombia

Don’t let the size of this small town fool you: There is no shortage of activities to do in San Gil .

Located in Santander Department, San Gil is known as the adventure capital of Colombia. Adrenaline junkies can choose from any number of heart-thumping outdoor activities, including white water rafting, rock climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, waterfall rappelling, and more.

For those into softer adventures, San Gil still has you covered. Right in town the Parque el Gallineral has 10 acres of walking trails among mossy beard-like trees that go by the same name. A 20-30 minute walk or quick taxi ride will get you to Pozo Azul, a lovely swimming hole with small waterfalls, perfect for cooling off on hot days.

The Chicamocha National Park offers a perfect balance between soft and hard adventure. Just an hour away from San Gil, the park sits in a deep canyon with no shortage of options for things to do. From spelunking to hiking to taking a ride on the 3.7 mile-long cable car (one of the longest in the world), Chicamocha won’t disappoint.

• Get there: 7 hours by road from Bogota; 3 hours by road from Bucaramanga International Airport (1-hour flight from Botoga).
• Stay: Hotel Campestre Casona del Camino Real – Breezy, comfortable rooms walking distance from the centre of San Gil and on the doorstep of the region’s best nature.
• By Jen from Long Haul Trekkers

Best places to visit in Colombia: Nature & adventure

16. minca, mountains & waterfalls.

Minca is a small mountainous town in Northern Colombia that is the perfect escape into nature from the party scene of Santa Marta. Busses run from town and it takes about 45 minutes to reach the centre.

What makes a trip to Minca special is staying in one of the incredible accommodations in the mountains such as Cases Viejas Hostel Lodge. Getting there requires an additional 20-minute drive in a jeep up the mountain, but it’s worth it.

The hostel overlooks gorgeous landscapes and offers several lounging areas to relax and take it all in. They also offer daily yoga classes, hikes to nearby waterfalls, and horseback rides. Plus, they source produce from a nearby local farm, so the food served onsite is fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Family style dinners, a bar and incredible views give this place a relaxed but social atmosphere. It is possible to visit Minca for just one night, but it’s highly recommended to stay for two for a more relaxing experience, or more if you have the time.

After all, could you ever get sick of this view?

• Get there: 45 minutes by road from Santa Marta.
• Day trip: Full-day coffee and cocoa tour from Santa Marta (8.5 hours; from $90 per person).
• Stay: Sierra Alta Finca Boutique – Gorgeous ecolodge with indoor-outdoor rooms, hammocks and gardens nestled in the mountains close to Minca and Santa Marta.
• By Lora from Explore With Lora

17. Salento, gateway to the Coffee Triangle

Located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee triangle, Salento is easy to fall in love with. Whether you’re looking to take a horseback ride to a deserted waterfall, play some tejo (there’s gunpowder involved in this local game!), or simply enjoy views of the valley from one of Salento’s many viewpoints, you’re bound to find something enchanting about this tiny Colombian town.

While you’re there, be sure to stroll down Calle Real to take in the incredibly colourful buildings that make up Salento and learn all about Colombia’s coffee (they don’t call it the coffee triangle for nothing).

Admire the views from Salento’s mirador, and, most importantly, pay a visit to the stunning Cocora Valley , which is the draw that brings many tourists to Salento in the first place.

It’s recommended to stay in Salento for at least three days. That will give you time to spend one day in the Cocora Valley and two closer to town. But you can certainly entertain yourself for much longer!

We extended our time in Salento twice, and ended up spending nearly a week there. If we hadn’t had a plane to catch, we would have stayed even longer!

• Get there: 1 hour by road from Pereira.
• Day tour: Salento coffee tour at Finca El Ocaso with hotel pick up from Salento (3.5 hours; from $75 per person).
• Stay: Hotel Kawa Mountain Retreat – Rustic bungalows with a luxury edge surrounded by palm trees in the heart of the coffee region.
• By Kate from Our Escape Clause

18. The Cocora Valley, one of the most famous places in Colombia

Wondering where to go in Colombia to see the famous towering palm trees? Just 9 miles (15km) from Salento, the Cocora Valley is the main attraction in this part of Colombia besides the coffee farms.

Visitors are greeted with a lush green valley as they enter the Los Nevados mountains. Cocora is the home of the wax palm, Colombia’s national tree, and also the tallest of all palm species.

For Europeans like myself, the typical image of palm trees is on a tropical sandy beach. Seeing incredibly tall palms set against mountains is even more charming.

There are several trails through Cocora Valley, covering the mountains, a small river and some waterfalls. Take a horse ride for the most authentic experience! These are very popular in the area and can take from 1-6 hours depending on your chosen route. But make sure you are fit enough if you opt for a longer trail.

We loved the ride, but the muscle soreness reminded us about it for a few days! Try to go in the morning, to avoid the big crowds; the scenery is better too, with the mist covering the mountains.

• Get there: 30 minutes by road from Salento.
• Stay: Bio Habitat Hotel – Immersive luxury rooms with hardwood floors and glass walls nestled in the treetops, with a hot tub, sauna and pool. Located in Armenia, convenient to Cocora Valley.
• By Alina from The Happy Kid

19. Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), Colombia’s best hike

Many travellers use Santa Marta as a base for a much bigger adventure that begins two hours away, deep within the jungle terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountain region.

In a four-day round-trip you can reach Colombia’s Lost City , an ancient archaeological site built by the Tayrona people in around 800 AD. It remained hidden until it was uncovered by looters around 50 years ago.

With the help of archaeologists and permission of the indigenous communities of the area, a small portion of it has been uncovered and is open for visitors ready to tackle this multi-day expedition by foot.

The trek is tough, with steep terrain and some treacherous paths, so it takes some stamina and determination. You can’t do it alone: You need both permits and a guide, since this is through a National Park and private indigenous lands. Therefore it is important that you choose a company where an indigenous guide will accompany you.

However hard it is to get there, you will be rewarded with a view of Colombia’s ancient history that you won’t find anywhere else.

• Get there: Approx. 1.5-2 hours by road to the trailhead from Santa Marta.
• Guided hike: 4-6 day trek to the Lost City from Santa Marta with a local guide.
• Stay: Cabaña Guarumo de la Sierra – Comfortable rooms with stunning mountain views in Santa Marta, close to the trailhead.
• By Becki from Borders of Adventure

20. Caño Cristales, the most beautiful river in the world

Nestled deep within the ​​Parque Nacional Natural Tinigua in the remote Meta region, the Cano Cristales or ‘Crystal Channel’ is one of Colombia’s most incredible natural wonders.

Also called the ‘River of Five Colours’ or the ‘Red River’, the river bed is tinged with hues of yellow, green, blue, black and red, giving the water hole and surrounding rapids an otherworldly liquid rainbow appearance.

This natural phenomenon – created by a combination of quartzite mineral rocks, algae and plants – only occurs between the months of July and November.

As well as beautiful waterfalls and rapids, you can see circular depressions in the river. Known as ‘giant’s kettles’, these are formed by chunks of hard rock that make deep pits. You’ve never seen anything quite like the brightly coloured water falling and churning in the pits.

As a licensed tour guide and special permit is required to visit the river, some advanced planning is essential. Swimming is only allowed in designated areas.

The small town of La Macarena (which has an airport and weekly flights from Bogota) is an ideal base for visiting the Cano Cristales and exploring the rest of this wild interior landscape, where the Amazon meets the mountains.

• Get there: 45 minutes by road from La Macarena (a 75-minute flight from Bogota).
• Stay: Hostal Caño Nevera – A family run guesthouse with tidy rooms and gardens, close to La Macarena town centre and the edge of the national park. Staff can organise guides and transportation on your behalf.

21. Leticia, gateway to the Amazon Rainforest

Leticia is the capital of the Colombian Amazon. As there are no roads leading to the Amazon, flying into Leticia is the only way to launch your rainforest adventures.

Visiting Leticia is a weird experience. At first, you’ll notice chaotic traffic and shabby streets. Before night falls, you’ll be amazed how close to nature you are after all. Birds that are usually hard to spot are abundant in the city and every night you can witness a show of thousands of parakeets arriving at Santander Park.

Within a one-hour boat trip lies virgin rainforest, completely away from the crowds. Jungle hikes and night safaris reveal the residents of the Amazon: Sloths, caimans, alligators, toucans, boas and armadillos to name a few.

The best things to do in Leticia are all related to nature: Boat trips on the Amazon River and its tributaries, spotting pink and grey dolphins, hiking and kayaking, learning jungle skills, and meeting indigenous tribes. But even the city has some quirky sights, such as an ethnographic museum.

Visiting the border towns of Tabatinga (Brazil) and Isla Santa Rosa (Peru) are also popular afternoon activities in Leticia. Have lunch in Peru and grab a beer in Brazil!

• Get there: Fly into Alfredo Vasquez Cobo International Airport (2.25-hour flight from Bogota).
• Stay: La Ceiba, Amazonas – Immersive nature bungalows with four-poster beds located in a remote jungle village with access to hiking trails.
• By Niina from Bizarre Globe Hopper

22. San Agustin, an important archaeological site in the Andean Mountains

San Agustin is home to the most incredible archaeological site in all of Colombia, with dozens of ancient statues scattered around picturesque green hills with the Andes mountain range as a backdrop.

You should set aside three days for your visit. On the first day, take a half-day horse ride to some of the nearby statues, ending at the Archaeological Park.

First stop is El Tablon , where there are four statues. No one knows for sure the original purpose of the statues or much about the people who created them, but most of the icons guard tombs and they are commonly thought to be sacrifices to the gods.

From here, there are two more sites located down a steep incline, about 350 feet apart. El Purutal la Pelota has the only two coloured statues and La Chaquira has several intriguing anthropomorphic statues. The horse ride ends at the main Archaeological Park. It is also possible to take a collective bus or walk the 2 miles from town to the Archaeological Park instead of a riding horse.

In addition to the main park, there is the atmospheric ‘Forest of Statues’, a path through a forest with statues every few hundred feet along the way.

For the two remaining days of your visit, take a jeep tour into the surrounding areas to visit seven more sites, a sugar cane factory, and Salto Mortino and Salto Bordones, two dramatic waterfalls.

• Get there: 1 hour by road from Contador Airport in Pitalito (1.5 hour flight from Bogota); 2.5 hours by road from Guadalupe; 4.5 hours by road from Popayan.
• Stay: Masaya San Agustin – Ecolodge with beautiful self-contained cabins in the hills overlooking the river outside San Agustin town.
• By James Ian from Travel Collecting

23. Las Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia’s most spectacular church

Las Lajas Sanctuary is a beautiful basilica church located in the south of Colombia, close to the border with Ecuador. With its large bridge spanning over the Guaitara River and its beautiful Gothic architecture rising out from a canyon, it’s often regarded as one of the most original churches in the world.

Yet, despite being an important pilgrimage for national worshipers, the church remains a hidden gem that most foreign travellers aren’t aware of.

Las Lajas attracts indeed thousands of religious believers each year, who come from all over the country to address prayers to the Virgin Mary in the hope of a miracle.

It is in fact believed that the Virgin Mary’s face appeared on a rock on the canyon cliff to a local woman and her daughter in the 17th-century. Numerous miracles are claimed to have occurred in the same location, inspiring thenceforward the construction of a large basilica with an altar facing the rock where the Virgin Mary’s face first appeared.

Las Lajas is an incredible off-the-beaten-path destination to visit in Colombia – whether you are a believer or not. Easily reachable for about 2000 COP (less than 1 USD), the sanctuary is a great half-day excursion from Ipiales ,where most tourists only stop to change bus and continue their travels onward into Colombia or Ecuador.

If you aren’t in a hurry, make sure to take the time to discover this unique part of the Colombian countryside.

• Get there: 20 minutes by road from Ipiales; 30 minutes by road from San Luis Airport.
• Stay: Loft Hotel Ipiales – Modern rooms in Ipiales, 20 minutes by road from Las Lajas.
• By Jenny from Tales From the Lens

24. Concordia, coffee plantations near Medellin

With the most coffee trees of any township, Concordia is the star of the Colombian coffee region.

Here, it’s all about the berries and the beans. The hills that lead from Medellin to Concordia are covered with hectares upon hectares of plantations, most of them owned by smallholder farmers who sell their beans to local co-ops such as Andes, which has a warehouse you can visit just outside of Jardin.

If you want to visit farms and do a coffee tasting, it pays to join a tour to Concordia from Medellin. The town is about two hours by car, making it possible to visit as a day trip. We travelled with LandVenture Travel who offer a full-day trip to Concordia , returning to Medellin in the evening (or you can do like we did and spend the night in Jardin, with a tour of the town the next morning).

A full day was plenty enough to explore Concordia, although I would have been happy to overnight there and wake up in the pretty town.

• Get there: 2.5-3 hours by road from Medellin; 2-2.5 hours by road from Jardin.
• Stay: Rock Forest Glamping Finca – Stunning A-frame cottages set in the mountains of Concordia, close to coffee farms and with horseback riding available.

25. Lake Guatavita, the birthplace of the Legend of El Dorado

After visiting the Gold Museum in Bogota and hearing all about El Dorado, you will surely be intrigued to visit the place where the legend was born. Located less than 2 hours from Bogota by road, Lake Guatavita is a sacred Muisca site with an atmosphere of mystique that truly glimmers.

Among the Muisca people, Guatavita has long been a sacred site where new leaders were anointed. As the tradition goes, the nominated figure would be dusted in gold powder from head to toe then pushed out on a floating raft into the lake. Precious gold objects would then be cast into the waters as an offering to the gods.

Today, Laguna de Guatavita is a beautiful natural landscape with hiking trails. It’s best to go with a knowledgeable guide who can illuminate both the legends and the traditions of the Indigenous peoples who have long inhabited this area.

• Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Bogota.
• Guided tour: Half day trip from Bogota with an experienced guide (6 hours; from $115 per person).
• Stay: Encubo Glamping , funky shipping container glamping on the edge of the lagoon.

26. The Tatacoa Desert, surreal landscapes & stargazing

A world away from Colombia’s lush coffee plantations and dense rainforests, the Tatacoa Desert is one of the most unique landscapes in the world . Bearing some resemblance to the famous Rainbow Mountain in Peru , it offers remote hiking opportunities and thrilling adventures for active travellers.

Don’t let the name fool you: The Tatacoa Desert is not technically a desert, but rather it is a dried-up tropical forest. Over the decades, the weather has shaped sweeping canyons and peaked ‘dunes’ in striations of rust and amber. The formations are actually composed of soft soil, not rock, so visitors must take care not to damage them.

There are several different parts to Tatacoa, including the Red Desert and the Grey Desert, plus a pink lake . As the names suggest, each presents radically different hues of soil. The entire area is abundant with wildlife, and as you move around on the walking trails you will surely encounter birds, lizards, and even the occasional snake or scorpion.

For a memorable experience, spend the night camped out in the desert and do a spot of stargazing. Big skies that are free from light pollution make Tatacoa one of the best places in Colombia to gaze up at the galaxies.

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

• Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Neiva.
• Private tour: Multi-day desert adventure with transfers from Bogota .
• Stay: Tatacoa Star Eco Hotel , ecologically friendly bungalows in Villavieja close to the dunes and salt pans.

Best places to visit in Colombia: Beaches & islands

27. the rosario islands, pristine beaches & reefs.

Located off the coast of Cartagena, the Rosario Islands ( Corales Islas del Rosario ) is an archipelago of 30 islands that form one of Colombia’s 46 Natural National Parks. If you’re interested in snorkelling or scuba diving, this is one Colombian destination you won’t want to miss.

This part of the Caribbean is known for its underwater ecosystem of vibrant coral reefs, as well as seagrass habitat and mangroves. The largest island, the aptly named Isla Grande, has resorts, lodges, camping areas and plenty of restaurants, while secluded beaches, an aquarium and open-sea oceanarium are located on small islets, all accessible by local ferry.

Bendita Beach lies just off the mainland peninsular and is one of the most popular white-sand beaches in the country. It’s a perfect day trip destination from Cartagena – or you can rent an overwater bungalow on one of the other islands for a more immersive nature experience.

• Get there: 45 minutes by ferry from Baru port to Isla Grande (1 hour by road from Cartagena).
• Stay: El Hamaquero Hostal EcoNativo – A popular eco-friendly hostel on the shoreline of Isla Grande, with direct access to the beach.

28. San Andres Island, the best sunsets in Colombia

San Andres is an island paradise that belongs to Colombia, even though it’s geographically closer to Nicaragua or Panama. With its remote location, it can only be reached by air. Luckily, flights are quite affordable from major Colombian cities, as low as 70 USD round-trip.

San Andres is famous for scuba diving. The coral and marine life is very well preserved and therefore San Andres is said to be one of the best diving spots in the world.

For those who aren’t interested in scuba diving, the sandy beaches are also world-famous. You can access tons of different beaches via the 16 mile-long ring road that loops the entire way around the island.

Some beaches are popular tourist spots, and some are completely deserted. One of my personal favourites is Rocky Cay. On this beach at low tide, you can actually walk a couple of hundred feet out into the water onto a sandbar to reach another island to explore.

• Get there: Fly into San Andres Island Airport (2.25-hour flight from Bogota).
• Stay: Le Castel Blanc Hotel Boutique – Gorgeous rooms with polished tile floors and wicker furniture, with an outdoor pool and tropical gardens. Set inside a Mediterranean-style mansion house 600m from the best swimming beaches.
• By Bailey from Destinationless Travel

29. Taganga, one of the best places to visit in Colombia for diving

Taganga is a small fishing village in Colombia’s north east. It can be reached by minibus from Cartagena, which shouldn’t take any longer than two hours. It’s worth a visit for two reasons: The scuba diving and the sunsets .

This little village is becoming increasingly popular among tourists because it neighbours the much bigger and more developed Santa Marta. Taganga allows visitors the opportunity to mingle with holidaying locals, enjoy delicious fresh fish, and watch one of the most amazing sunsets in South America.

On top of that are opportunities to dive. The little village has several experienced dive schools that can bring you out on snorkel and scuba excursions. It’s also possible to gain a certification in Taganga.

The coral and marine life is beautiful, healthy, and in abundance – something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

If you’re simply visiting Taganga then two days will be enough. If you intend to dive, it’s recommended to stay for up to a week, which should give you enough time to learn and then recover.

• Get there: 15 minutes by road from Santa Marta.
• Stay: Hotel Cactus Taganga – Simple wooden bungalows with outdoor terraces overlooking the bay.
• By Eoin from Dollys Quest

30. Tayrona National Park, where the jungle meets the ocean

If you’re looking for an intrepid overnighter, consider a stay in Tayrona National Park , a jungle-laden coastal national park is located near Santa Marta on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coastline.

Visitors can access the park by foot, hiking one of the many scenic trails to a few camping locations. Unless you have hundreds of dollars to spend on a fancy ‘ecohab’ (luxury glamping huts set on a hill), take the plunge and sleep in a hammock at Cabo San Juan.

Rent a hammock for the night (the tents will flood if it rains, and keep in mind, it’s the jungle!) to fully enjoy the park. The hike in takes between 2.5-4 hours depending on how bad the mud is. The adventure is worth it.

Take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of the jungle. If you’re lucky you can spot howler monkeys in the trees. Opt to hike the nearby Nine Piedres or up to the Pueblito native village. Early morning hikers will be rewarded with cooler temperatures and stunning wildlife.

• Get there: 30 minutes by road from Santa Marta.
• Stay: Senda Koguiwa – Luxe bungalows nestled beneath the mountains with a huge outdoor pool just five minutes from the entrance to the National Park.
• By Meg from Fox in the Forest

31. Santa Marta, relaxation on the Caribbean coast

Santa Marta is spectacularly unspectacular, and that makes it the perfect spot for relaxing. There is not a lot to see or much to do: No well-maintained historic centre, no World Heritage Sites – just some picturesque streets’n’squares and a pleasant waterside promenade.

Santa Marta isn’t dull, it’s serene.

On Carrera 5, you can see how Colombians shop. And you can shop, too. I bought an unspectacular leather belt at a spectacular price: No tourist currency here, I paid the same as locals pay.

For those for whom local is not enough, there is Carrera 3. Here, you’ll find stylish restaurants and bars, designed mainly for tourists and trendy crowds from the nearby university. No Colombian town would be complete without some street art, and there are some pretty amazing murals on Carrera 3 and the adjacent streets.

Santa Marta is a great hub for day trips to beaches. The nicest beach in my opinion, Rodadero, is located south of Santa Marta and is a great place to spend a lazy day. Not lazy? Then you might want to visit National Park Tayrona. It’s only about an hour away by public bus. Adventurous folks start their trip to the Sierra Nevada and the El Dorado from Santa Marta.

• Get there: Fly into Simon Bolivar International Airport (1.25-hour flight from Medellin; 1.5-hour flight from Bogota).
• Stay: Hotel Boutique Maree – Elegant, modern suites with a generous outdoor pool located close to the city centre and beach. All the perks of a big-brand hotel but with an intimate, boutique feel.
• By Renata from bye:myself

Do you have a favourite place to visit in Colombia? Which of these destinations would you include in your Colombia itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

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.

Best places to visit in Colombia: Share it on Pinterest

More Colombia travel resources

• 25+ amazing Colombia experiences , treks, workshops and more
• 30 best things to do in Medellin , my Medellin city guide
• 2 days in Medellin , ideal itinerary for first-timers
• Markets in Medellin , Colombian fruit, flowers and more
• 30 things to buy in Colombia
• Visiting Medellin’s Comuna 13 , things to know before you go
• Guide to Jerico , Colombia’s loveliest pueblo
• El Despertar Hotel , Jerico’s best accommodation
• Guide to Jardin , Colombia’s most colourful town
• Colombian coffee tour , bean to cup in Concordia
• 20 best things to do in Bogota , a day or two in the capital
• Colombian cooking class , in the kitchen in Bogota

46 Comments

Thank you for the effort in putting this exhaustive list together. It is definitely going to help us plan our time in Colombia fruitfully

Me encanto tu publicación, Colombia es realmente fascinante, ojala podamos viajar por todos estos lugares tan preciosos, sin embargo te falto en santander el cañon del chicamocha y barichara… te encantarán.

Thank you Marce! Muchas gracias!

Hi thanks for sharing this amazing blog.

Colombia is on my bucket list! There are so many beautiful places to visit in this country! Thank you for sharing the best of them!

Love this comprehensive guide. I’ve only ever heard of Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena, and now I have more destinations to add to my Colombia itinerary. Thank you!

Before reading this post, the only places I knew in Colombia were Medellin and Cartagena. I didn’t know Colombia has so much more to offer – especially the beaches look nice too! Thanks so much for this great post 🙂

Colombia is such a diverse country and I can’t wait to get back and explore, especially to add a few of these places I’ve never heard of! Beautiful photos and thanks for taking me back to one of my favorite countries.

Wow! Great list! Love the colors of Colombia!

Hi Emily! I’m Colombian and I must admit that I instantly blushed when I read the introductory paragraph. You’re so sweet, and I’m glad that you have had the opportunity to immerse yourself in my country. I’ve lived in Bogota all my life and my family loves to travel within the country, so I must say that I’m shocked by the fact that I hadn’t even heard of many of the places you mentioned here (considering the fact that I’ve been from La Guajira to Leticia). May God bless you and I hope that you continue marveling at the many things that dear Colombia has to offer.

Thank you for the lovely comment and kind words. I had such a great time travelling in Colombia and I can’t wait to go back some day 🙂 I’m glad you found a few new places to discover on the list!

Stay well and I hope to see you in Colombia some day!

I´m a Colombian and I have visited most of the places you recommend. I agree with all of them, although I was surprised by the order of appearance. Yet I must say there are plenty more to visit. Just to give an example, if you want to have the full experience of Colombian food and Colombian party, you must visit Chocó. Is not a fancy place, but you will be amazed by the views of the wild, the happiness of the people and the mixture of flavors of the Pacific and the jungle. I must visit Guadalupe, the only place you mentioned I have never been to. Thank you.

Thanks so much for your comment and kind words, Jariro. I really enjoyed my time travelling around your country 🙂

Choco looks terrific! I’ll have to add it to my list for next time.

Wow! Amazing list! I have spent time in Medellin & Leticia – adored them both. Next on my list is Cartagena and San Andres Island. Will definitely save this list for when I’m planning my next trip back to Colombia!

Oh goodness, it’s so hard to choose what place looks like most enticing! I’ve never been, so I don’t have a favorite, but I’d definitely have to visit the basilica and National Park! But I’d definitely have to include Cartagena and Guatape for history and color. Some of my favorite spots are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Great choices! I always seek out UNESCO Sites when I travel too – and Colombia has plenty of them!

Cartagena looks so beautiful and colourful! Great guide to an incredible country.

Wow, these look amazing! Colombia was never too high on my bucket list, but after seeing this post I think I may need to plan a visit soon (well, as soon as it’s safe to do so!). Thanks for sharing!

nice information. Thanks

Wow nice info. Colombia is of the beautiful , attractive and most sight seeing places , Thanks admin

Thanks Sarah, so glad to hear you like my list of places to visit in Colombia!

Great post! Enjoyed reading but one small correction. Medellin was home to Pablo Escobar, not Cali. Great detail with everything else!!

Thanks, Greg! I believe the author meant that Cali was home to one of Escobar’s cartels. I’ve updated the post to clarify this.

Super amazing post!! Loved how you have covered all the big and small cities in Colombia.

What a great post! Colombia has been moving up on my bucket list, and after this post and seeing the amazing photos, it’s moved up even more. Thank you for the incredible travel inspiration and I’ll definitely be using this for when I’m able to visit. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for the kind words, April! So glad you’ve found the post inspiring and helpful! Colombia has so much to offer!

After reading your post I think Colombia gets a bit of a bad wrap and is often over looked as a destination due to the perceived opinion that its not safe. I had never considered visiting Colombia for that reason. I might have to reconsider that decision.

…good point and here the same!

Raquira looks great. I’m glad your post goes outside of the usual places. Ciudad Perdida looks like a great adventure. And San Jeronimo. Is there a lot of street art there?

Thanks Sue! I think most cities and towns here have a bit of street art—the murals in San Jeronimo look particularly cool!

Great collection!! I have lived in Bogota for about six months now and love it here. It’s so fascinating to me that there is so much diversity in this country!! I’ve been meaning to put a bucket list together of places to visit before I leave, so thank you for putting this together for me! 😉 This will definitely be put to good use VERY soon.

That’s awesome, Mary! I am in Bogota now (but only for a night)—what an interesting place to live. There’s certainly a lot to do in Colombia… Perfect base for travelling and weekend trips! Enjoy!

Loved this post! I really get a sense of all the different landscapes that Colombia has to offer; from the beaches, to the countryside to the ruins! I’m saving this for my upcoming trip!

Colombia is on my bucketlist and this blog has been extra helpful. I love bloggers views on a country its alot more real. I have bookmarked this as m reference for my research for traveling. Great blog.

I would love to try the coffee in these areas!! It would be so fresh and delicious.

Goodness this post has soooo much information! You convinced me that I should go and visit lots of small towns in Columbia …then the second half of the post made me think that I need to visit spots out in the countryside too.

It’s all so gorgeous! <3

WOW – everyone’s photos are stunning. I have heard a lot of good things about Columbia in recent months. Las Lajas looks incredible! What made you want to go?

Thanks Olivia! We’re here for a friend’s wedding.

Such a colourful country rich in history and flavours. Would love to visit here with my boys. You’ve got my travel juices flowing!

It’s a very family-friendly destination in my opinion! I’m sure you and your boys would love it.

What an impressive guide. Such great insight on so many lesser known destinations! Definitely helpful for someone planning a trip to Colombia, and proving there is so much to see and do in that fantastic country.

Sooo much to do! We’ll definitely be back for more!

I’d love to visit Jardin especially after your description. I really like places that feel like they’re communities where people know and look out for each other. Plus those short drives to parks with waterfalls don’t sound bad either.

Me too, Katherine! Jardin has the best of both worlds.

Wow, this is such a comprehensive guide. All your pictures make me want to start planning a trip to Colombia. It seems to be such a diverse and beautiful country!

What a list! Will definitely use this post when planning our trip to Colombia.

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14 best experiences in Colombia in 2024

Mar 9, 2024 • 11 min read

Ensure your visit to Colombia is the trip of a lifetime with these unmissable experiences © RicardoImagen / Getty Images

With a durable peace deal in place that has opened up vast swathes of the countryside and an ever-growing number of international visitors,  Colombia has become one of the most sought-after stops on any South American ticket.

This is in large part due to its awe-inspiring landscapes – among the best in the region – with Caribbean and Pacific coastlines to the north and west, and the Amazon rainforest in the south.

Adventure travelers will thrill at the options, from rugged mountain trails and wildlife-rich jungles to bountiful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Visitors that prefer a little less of the literal wild life have beautiful, modern cities full of music, culture and the warm welcome of the Colombian people. 

Prepare yourself for the fact it's difficult not to fall in love with this country – and even harder to leave. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, showstopping nature or a fabulous party, here are the top 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, which can reach the height of a six-story building and tower over this idyllic rural landscape. 

Planning tip:  Take a Willys Jeep (an experience in itself) from nearby Salento into the valley, from where a 15km (9-mile) circular hike heads along a pretty river and up into the hills for spectacular views of the palms backed by rolling emerald hills topped with tracts of cloud forest. 

2. Snorkel or dive in the coral reef surrounding Providencia

Colombia’s Caribbean coastline  feels like paradise – and that description applies even more to emerald-green Providencia , a mellow tropical island that spans just 17 sq km (6.5 sq miles) and lies around 800km (497 miles) north of mainland Colombia. 

Providencia was flattened by Category 5 Hurricane Iota in late 2020, which destroyed houses and affected the surrounding reefs, especially those in shallow waters.

Fortunately, life on the island is now getting back to normal and the crystal-clear warm waters remain one of the best places in Colombia for snorkeling or scuba diving.

Lying off the island's northeast coast, the McBean Lagoon National Natural Park  is characterized by waters tinted with a glorious patchwork of colors. It’s been dubbed the “Sea of Seven Colors,” and is inhabited by an amazing variety of tropical fish, manta rays and sea turtles.

3. Learn to salsa in dance capital Cali 

Staking its claim as the world capital of salsa, in party-loving Cali the music rings out loud whatever the time of day or night. Here the only dilemma facing DJs is which particular subtype of salsa to play.

Embrace the city’s favorite rhythm and take group or private classes at one of the many fun dance academies, then get your hips moving on a high-energy journey through its legendary salsa bars and clubs.

A good place to start is the friendly and always-packed  La Topa Tolondra , while those looking for a fully local experience should check out Zaperoco Bar . Don’t bother looking for a dance floor, it’s perfectly legit to dance between tables.

Planning tip: If visiting during September, don’t miss the Festival Mundial de Salsa , where more than 5000 superb dancers from around the world compete dressed in brilliant costumes, and big-name acts perform concerts.

4. Hike through the jungle to Ciudad Perdida

Hiking through lush tropical vegetation for three days before you even catch a glimpse of Colombia’s aptly named Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) is an opportunity to experience the thrill of setting forth into a magnificent lost world.

The muddy, ascending trails and humid temperatures of the jungle mean it’s a challenge to get here, but all the sweat (and tears) will feel worth it when you arrive.

Once a thriving pre-Columbian city, Ciudad Perdida was built atop a ridge in the northern stretches of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta by the Tayrona people more than 1000 years ago.

Today, the houses are gone but the stone pathways, walls and foundations remain and with a bit of imagination it's possible to imagine how the mountain kingdom may have looked at its peak.

The site receives very few visitors and it’s no wonder: it's a tough five-day round-trip hike to reach it and one of the most adventurous things to do in Colombia.

Along the way, refreshing swimming holes and striking jungle scenery ensure your efforts are fully rewarded.  

Planning tip: You're required to hire an experienced tour guide or join a tour group for this hike through the jungle. 

5. Discover Cartagena’s Indigenous heritage

The picturesque walled city of Cartagena feels like a movie set, with its historic plazas, majestic churches and restored mansions that have been converted into swanky boutique hotels and restaurants serving Caribbean-infused seafood dishes.

But beyond Cartagena’s colonial opulence – built off the back of the trade of enslaved people and Spanish plunder, it’s important to remember – the city has other less-examined origins that played an enormous role in the development of its vibrant culture. At the Museo del Oro Zenú , you’ll see displays of gold artifacts from the Indigenous people who were the original inhabitants of the Cartagena region.

Today, weavers from this community continue to produce the traditional Colombian sombrero vueltiao hat, which can be bought at market stalls around the city. To find a good handmade hat look for one that can be twisted and folded and springs back into shape.

Planning tip:  Meet the artisans themselves and learn about the challenges they face as a culture in modern Colombia on a community-led city tour .

6. Join the party at the Carnaval de Barranquilla

Colombia’s most energetic street party can be found in the pulsating streets of Barranquilla during the city’s annual Carnaval celebrations. Kicking off officially four days before Ash Wednesday every February or March (although smaller verbenas – pre-Carnaval public parties – begin some ten days beforehand), the festivities are a full-color expression of  costeño culture with four packed days of floats, beauty contests, traditional rhythms and – in true Colombian fashion – plenty of dancing. 

The Carnaval de Barranquilla is so integral to the identity of the city that the event was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2008. It ranks among the continent’s liveliest carnival celebrations alongside Rio de Janeiro’s festivities and those held in Oruro in Bolivia . Throw yourself into the dancing, and you may even wind up joining a local dance troupe on their float, which could end up being the most memorable moment of your trip to Colombia.

7. Ride a rail cart through the jungle to San Cipriano

Once a little supply stop on the Cali to Buenaventura railroad, the Afro-Colombian village of San Cipriano was left isolated when the line all but stopped functioning with the construction of the highway.

Surrounded by thick rainforest miles from the nearest road, the ingenious residents of the town have come up with a solution to their mobility problems: homemade motorized rail carts that zip through the forests at alarming speed.

Board one of the mostly-wooden contraptions and sit back and enjoy the scenery as you hurtle through walls of dense foliage and over rickety bridges into the heart of the jungle to reach the Reserva Forestal San Cipriano where you can float down a crystal clear river in an inner tube or hike to towering waterfalls. Run by the local community, a visit to the reserve is a refreshingly unpolished adventure that is as much a cultural experience as a natural one.

8. Learn about Medellín’s extraordinary transformation 

Whether it’s Netflix’s Narcos or reports from the ’90s that have colored your perceptions, prepare to be astounded by the reality of modern Medellín . Having shed the cloak of drug-incited conflict, this is a city transformed, with such modern neighborhoods as Poblado and Laureles showcasing upmarket restaurants and vibrant nightlife – proof that a leopard can change its spots.

Planning tip:  To get under the skin of the city’s urban regeneration and checkered past, take a tips-based walking tour of the center with Real City Tours , whose local paisa guides have lived through the metamorphosis and can talk with authority about the city’s rebirth. The tour of the former rubbish dump–turned–thriving neighborhood of  Moravia  is similarly enlightening.  

9. Sample coffee, Colombia’s tastiest export 

World-class coffee is one of Colombia’s most important exports, and caffeine addicts will find their home-away-from-home on one of the coffee fincas located in the lush hills in the Zona Cafetera .

Established fincas such as the fourth-generation Hacienda Venecia near Manizales allow you to learn about the production of the bean and try “cupping,” the act of tasting the flavors of freshly made coffee. Another excellent tour can be found at the family-run Hacienda Guayabal near the small town of Chinchiná. But beware: you might struggle to enjoy a cup elsewhere after trying some of the world’s finest coffee beans at their source.

10. Explore Bogotá’s art and museum scene

Bogotá is a city that can take a while to work its charms on travelers and is often overlooked based on initial impressions that belie what's beneath the surface. While its gridlocked streets, often slick with rain, might take some time to traverse, the capital of Colombia is a cosmopolitan place packed with dynamic nightlife and a rich range of cultural offerings. 

A staple of the city’s cultural scene, the  Museo del Oro  displays a thousands-strong array of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts to gawk at. Similarly crucial in the canon of Colombian cultural history is the Museo Botero , a museum dedicated to Colombia’s most famous artist, known worldwide for his humorously engorged figures.

Planning tip:  For a taste of more contemporary creations, head to the stylish La Balsa gallery, or take a graffiti walking tour with Bogotá Graffiti Tour , which uses proceeds from tips-based excursions to invest in community projects around the country.  

11. Take a road trip to La Guajira, South America’s northern tip

After the lush plantations of the coffee region, La Guajira is an assault on the senses. This arid desert peninsula that spears out into the Caribbean Sea on the northern edge of the South American continent is home to some of the country’s most dramatic terrain. 

The main attractions include the glorious ocher dunes of Punta Gallinas and Cabo de la Vela, which have ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Although independent travel is possible, it’s easiest to organize a tour from the regional capital,  Riohacha .

One of the most impoverished parts of Colombia, this region is home to the Indigenous Wayúu, a people renowned for their weaving and whose ways of life and access to water are threatened by Latin America’s biggest open mine. Ensure your money goes into local hands by purchasing local handicrafts and using sustainable operators, such as Pura Guajira Travel , who employ Wayúu guides.

12. Explore Colombia's archaeological parks

While Chile’s Rapa Nui (Easter Island) is known internationally for its monolithic statues,  Parque Arqueológico San Agustín in southwestern Colombia lays claim to the largest clutch of pre-Columbian sculptures in South America. Archaeologists still don’t know much about the culture dating back to between 5 and 400 CE that carved hulking bodies and fanged, animalistic faces from volcanic tuff.

Located around the park, these figures mark the tombs of the culture’s dead. Home to more than 50 burial sites, the archaeological park is an enthralling (if mysterious) insight into a culture for whom death was merely a transition into another life and where funeral rites were a significant ritual. 

Not too far away, another mysterious pre-Columbian site is Tierradentro , also worth visiting for archaeology buffs. This vast necropolis is believed to have been built between 600 and 900 CE and contains more than 150 enormous burial chambers whose walls are decorated with remarkably well-preserved complex geometric designs. 

Planning tip:  Despite being one of the most important archaeological sites in the country, Tierradentro receives few visitors which adds to the excitement of exploring the impressive mountains of the park on a self-guided hike.

13. Sleep in a rustic cabin in Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona 

Want to kick back and enjoy Colombia’s wealth of gorgeous beaches ? For sunseekers, swimmers and snorkelers alike, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona on the country’s Caribbean coast is a real paradise, where white-sand beaches are lapped by crystalline waters and enclosed by tropical jungle filled with monkeys, toucans and wild cats. 

More than 30 spectacular beaches are located within this park, although with deceptively strong currents posing a risk to life, just six are safe for swimming.

Planning tips:  For a relaxing couple of days, rent a hammock or a rustic thatch roof cabin right by the beach at Cabo San Juan or Cañaveral , from where you can wander to your beach of choice for a day of soaking up the sunshine. 

14. Stargaze in the Tatacoa Desert

With its Mars-like undulations of red clay,  the Tatacoa Desert looks like it could have been transposed from Chile’s Atacama.

It’s actually a dry tropical forest, but what it does share in common with its Chilean neighbor is its global renown as a place for crystal-clear night skies, making it perfect for stargazing. The area’s warm, dry climate is the key to the extraordinary visibility.

Planning tip:  For a stargazing tour, visit the  Observatorio Astronómico Astrosur , a twenty-minute drive from Villavieja which is the labor of love of a Colombian astronomer who has spent years gazing up from the desert sands and has several quality telescopes. The enthusiastic owner can introduce you to over 80 different constellations on the clearest of nights.

This article was first published May 6, 2022 and updated Mar 9, 2024.

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My 21 Favorite Places to Visit in 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

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

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)

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).

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 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.

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.

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 .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(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

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)

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

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).

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.

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

By Carl Austin · Last updated on June 17, 2024

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!

14. 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

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

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

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

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.

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 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 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

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

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.

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!

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 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 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.

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.

Map of Colombia

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Reader interactions.

October 29, 2019 at 8:08 pm

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

October 27, 2019 at 9:41 am

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.

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.

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!

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.

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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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.

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.

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.

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 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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

Home » Travel Guides » Colombia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Colombia

15 Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Set to the lively rhythms of salsa and merengue, spiked with three great chains of Andean peaks, scented with mountain coffees and dressed in everything from misty rainforests to rolling pampas, there’s a reason that Colombia reigns as one of South America’s real bucket-list destinations.

Check out this selection of the the best places to visit in Colombia:

Another of South America’s soaring capital cities, the sprawling, seething metropolis of Bogota makes its home on the ridges of the Colombian Eastern Cordillera.

Just shy of nine million Colombians live, work and play here, making it an electric place to visit.

The best known district – La Candelaria – is a lesson in all things colonial.

Trodden by Simon Bolivar and awash with low-rise pueblo cottages, cobblestone streets and the gorgeous La Catedral, it’s simply not to be missed.

Elsewhere, Bogota offers up the dramatic funicular ride to the tips of Cerro de Monserrate, while football crowds roar in El Campin and the various museums house everything from mysterious Incan gold works to Spanish portraiture.

2. Cartagena

Colombia’s Caribbean come colonial gem is a mass of coral-stone forts and crumbling stuccoed homes, all strung along the country’s finest stretch of coastline.

The Old Town is the piece de resistance for sure; a place where labyrinthine alleys weave and turn past gorgeous Baroque mansions and Spanish churches burst onto sunny plazas where babbling fountains mirror the colours of the blooming flower baskets on the nearby palazzo.

And then there’s the swish side of town: Bocagrande.

Here, Gucci-bearing, bikini-clad folk rollerblade along the beachfronts, sip pina coladas in the Carib sun and tan themselves between the lines of swaying palm trees.

3. Medellin

The onetime epicentre of the infamous Medellin Cartel has gone full chameleon, changing virtually entirely since the days when Pablo Escobar ruled its potholed streets and ramshackle barrios of breeze blocks and corrugated roofs.

Today, Medellin is a buzzing, artsy university town that boasts the likes of the fascinating Museo de Antioquia and the restored homes of countless Colombian writers and artists.

Public art displays adorn many a street corner, popping up in metallic canopies above the town’s Botanical Gardens, or with curious avant-garde carvings on the plazas (Medellin isn’t called the ‘City of Sculptures’ for nothing!). The rugged ridges of the Aburra Valley can also be reached by cable car from the town – great for sunset viewing!

Hemmed in by the steep-sided valleys and wild ridges of the mighty Cordillera Oriental – the easternmost branch of the Colombian Andes – San Gil has risen and risen to become perhaps the country’s most famed outdoorsy hub.

With the palm-dotted, misty hills of the Yariguies National Park to the west and the sanctuaries of the Rio Fonce to the east, it’s easy to see how the small city gets by on attracting hikers, bikers, white water rafters, rock climbers, wildlife seekers, gorge walkers – the list goes on! Those who do opt to break out into the wildernesses here can expect the breathtaking likes of the Chicamocha Canyon, the rustic village of Jordan, deep caves and oodles more!

5. Santa Marta

Strung out along the beautiful coastal reaches of Magdalena Department, Santa Marta is arguably the prime spot for beach lovers in all of Colombia.

The town itself is sandwiched between the snow-mantled peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the deep blue, cerulean rollers of the Caribbean Sea.

The sand stretches in the city are truly wonderful, complete with granite boulders dotting the shore and swaying lines of palm trees.

In nearby Taganga, meanwhile, backpackers sip cerveza and prep for diving in the legendary coral gardens and coves of the Tayrona National Park.

Others make a beeline for the secluded sands of Bahia Concha, or head to the Sierras, where rustic pueblos like Minca and jungle-shrouded Paso Del Mango are set to the sounds of chirping tropical birds and babbling rainforest creeks.

6. Manizales

Manizales can be found nestled in a beautiful valley of spiked and serrated Andean hills, right on the edge of the famous Coffee Valley in the very heart of the Colombian mountain region.

A relatively modern town that was founded by pacifists in the middle of the 1800s, when civil wars raged through the land, Manizales still oozes a charming laid-back vibe that’s difficult not to like.

Today, there are plenty of earthy little bakeries and cantinas to enjoy, where it’s also possible to sip potent fresh coffees in the company of chatty locals.

Outside of the town and the beautiful snow-mantled ridges of the Nevado del Ruiz soar above the horizon; a glacier-topped volcano that’s home to spectacled bears and tapirs alike.

A down-to-earth, gritty city that’s the veritable epicentre of Colombia’s iconic Coffee Valley, Pereira buzzes with enterprise and big business.

Benefitting from the fertile soils and hospitable climate of the Risaralda region, the city has grown and grown, booming with coffee bean and sugarcane depots by the bucket load.

Today, the spot remains a little off-the-beaten-track and certainly less visited than some of the other towns in the Valle de Cauca.

That makes it a great place to sample Colombia’s local highland character, sip potent coffees in earthy cantinas, and take a tour of the bean plantations in the hills – all without the usual crowds.

The roaring waterfalls and bubbling hot springs of Santa Rosa are also nearby – perfect for getting away from the urban fray.

8. Barichara

Whitewashed pueblo homes and adobe cottages with half-baked terracotta roofs line up all along Barichara’s cobbled alleys and roads.

Set over the sultry hills and scrublands of Santander in the northern reaches of the country, this is the sort of cowboy come gaucho town you’d expect to see in a Sergio Leone flick.

Its center is crowned by the colossal Cathedral of Barichara, which balances well with the humble, mud-built chapel to the Virgin Mary on the nearby roadways.

Neat little craft workshops touting woven fabrics hide in the bungalows, while the wild karst hills and cloud-topped peaks of the untrodden Serrania De Los Yariguies beckon with adventures aplenty to the west.

9. Villa de Leyva

No matter who you are, there’s simply no escaping the charm of Villa de Leyva.

Hailed by most as the single handsomest town in the nation, this patchwork of wobbly cobbled roads and whitewashed buildings is a lesson in all things Spanish colonialism.

Perfectly preserved, the city stands like a great museum piece amidst the low Andean hills of Boyaca.

It draws thousands of day-trippers out of the capital at Bogota too, who come to wallow on the sun-splashed plaza at the town’s heart, taste fine-dining in the new wave of international eateries fringing the 16th century streets, and delve into the fascinating Museum of Paleontology and Museo del Carmen alike.

10. Popayan

Popayan is hailed as the White City, and can be found spread out nearly 2,000 meters up on the ridges of the great Cordillera Occidental.

Shimmering and shining in the Andean sun, the town is awash with photogenic churches and governmental builds left over from Spanish rule.

Take the square-cut Clock Tower in the heart of town, or the gloriously adorned Santo Domingo church, looking plucked straight from the backwater towns of Andalusia.

Then there’s the breathtaking sight of the Catedral Basilica, a glorious example of neoclassical colonial design that’s been meticulously restored after a destructive earthquake in the 1980s.

Yes sir, Popayan is one darn pretty town to explore!

11. Santa Rosa de Cabal

Nestled deep in the wild folds of the Cordillera Central, where the two mighty chains of the Colombian Andes spread out northwards, the effortlessly pretty town of Santa Rosa de Cabal is a real must on any itinerary through the country.

It’s famed primarily for its Termales hot springs, which bubble and froth through the jungles nearby, overlooking dramatic waterfalls and the wild foothills of the mountains.

Between the city streets themselves, travelers will discover some charming little plazas and palm-dotted walkways, while mineral mines and bucolic villages pepper the highlands and valleys all around.

12. San Agustin

Steeped in myth, legend and raw, pre-Colombian history, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Agustin is like nowhere else in all of South America.

Travelers flock to the far-flung spot amidst the rainforests and winding river channels of southern Huila Department to seek out the famous anthropomorphic monolith carvings that were discovered lurking in the various burial mounds and chieftain tombs here.

They are thought to have been constructed sometime after the 8th century, and belie a complex spiritual relationship with the afterlife, making this one of the most enthralling and fascinating sacred sites in the country.

What’s more, San Agustin boasts a beautiful location betwixt the verdant valleys that line the Magdalena River!

There are few places as elegant and handsome as Santa Cruz de Mompox (that’s just Mompox for short).

Set over the waterways of the appropriately-named Bolivar Department (it was here that the revered Venezuelan revolutionary Simon Bolivar came to raise troops in 1812), the town glows in hues of white and yellow, punctuated in the middle by the maroon-red facades of its gorgeous San Francisco Church (don’t miss the frescos!).

Other pulls include the artworks of the House of the Apostles and the sun-splashed cobbles of Plaza Concepcion; a gorgeous little square where local folk sip coffee, the mellifluous Spanish tongue echoes throughout the evening, and merengue dances erupt ad hoc in the cantinas.

14. Salento

Rising from amidst the sea of coffee plantations and swaying palm tree groves that is the Eje Cafetero (one of the heartlands of the Colombian coffee growing axis), Salento is a laid-back provincial backwater with a lacing of bona fide colonial charm and an earthy, local Quindio character.

The horizons around the city are spiked with the mist-topped, snowy peaks of the Los Nevados National Park and its 5,000-meter-high volcanos, while the maze of tight-knit streets and their pretty rows of painted craft boutiques that form the center rarely fail to impress.

Be sure to sample the trout dishes (the Salento version is famous) and head out on a coffee tour to see the best of the region as a whole.

15. Santiago de Cali

Beating with the rhythms of salsa (one of the more famous exports of this two million-strong city in the midst of the Valle del Cauca), Santiago de Cali – or just Cali for short – is a great place to while away some time before making a beeline for the coffee plantations and wilds of the Cordillera Occidental.

Start by flitting between the preserved Spanish churches in the colonial center, then wonder at the Gothicism of the La Ermita, or head for the heights of the Cerro de las Tres Cruces for views over the tops of the town.

Sports and adventure are big here too, and travelers can opt to hike and bike in the surrounding mountains, or settle in with the roaring locals for a football match at the colossal Estadio Olimpico.

15 Best Places to Visit in Colombia:

• Santa Marta
• Villa de Leyva
• Santa Rosa de Cabal
• San Agustin
• Santiago de Cali

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21 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Colombia

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I’ve spent about three years on and off living and traveling through Colombia, and I can say without hesitation that there are a plethora of incredible things to see and an almost overwhelming amount of places to visit in Colombia. Even after traveling through all of Central America and the majority of South America, I can still say that Colombia is probably my favorite country in Latin America.

I know that planning a trip to Colombia can be an intimidating undertaking as you consider where to go, what to see, and how much you can fit into a limited time, so today I wanted to raise the profile of what I would consider being the 21 most incredible places to visit in Colombia, aka those places which should be near the top of your list.

The Most Incredible Places to Visit in Colombia

Of course, there is no way you’ll be able to see everything here within a short period of time, but it will at least call to attention some places, regions, or things which you may have not heard about or overlooked, and can help you organize and optimize your visit.

Anyway, let’s get on with it…

Let’s start with the most obvious places, Cartagena, since it is Colombia’s #1 tourist destination and for pretty good reason. This old, walled city draws visitors through its colorful corridors, past exotic Colombian fruit vendors and sucks you in.

While Cartagena isn’t my favorite big city in Colombia, it is hard to deny the appeal of this special place. Cartagena also makes a popular jumping-off point for some of the incredible beaches in the area like the famous Playa Blanca in Baru.

Cartagena is a frequent jumping-off place for most travelers to Colombia thanks to the many cheap flights one can find here. It was where I started my own travels in Colombia so many years ago.

Read More: Things to Do in Cartagena

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Natural Park is probably the crown jewel of Colombia’s national park system, an ecological paradise where palm-tree-lined white sand beaches tuck up against crystalline blue waters.

Thanks to its status as a national park, the area has been largely protected of development, giving visitors a feel for what Colombia’s Caribbean Coast looks like in a natural state. It is a place where you can truly disconnect and relax in an idyllic, tropical paradise. Be sure to head to the famously beautiful Cabo San Juan within the park.

Tayrona is located near Santa Marta, Colombia, which is a city that makes a great jumping-off point for a day trip or a number of other big adventures, such as the Ciudad Perdida Trek, aka the Lost City, as well as for a visit to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range. I love the little town of Minca, tucked in the mountains above Santa Marta too, good for at least one night, if not more.

Cabo de la Vela in La Guajira

For unforgettable beaches that are far less touristy than those in Cartagena or Tayrona, you should make a point to head to Cabo de la Vela along the Guajira region. The Guajira is a department (ie state) and a large peninsula that juts out into the sea.

The area is extremely poor, mostly inhabited by the native Wayuu, and predominately desert, but the scenery as the rolling desert sand dunes meets the sea is extremely unique.

You can also try and make a point to visit Punto Gallinas, the northernmost point in Colombia (not counting islands).

For a total change of scenery, you can (slowly, thanks to the high altitude) make your way to El Cocuy, located near the border of Venezuela, high in the Andes mountains.

This is another breathtaking natural park, but one consisting of high, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and windy mountain passes.

It is a great place for trekking and camping out under the stars for a few nights.

Read More: Trekking in El Cocuy

San Gil is located near the big city of Bucaramanga, and it remains one of my all-time favorite mid-size towns. San Gil is known as the adventure sports capital of Colombia, thanks to the many fun outdoor activities available in the area, ranging from white water rafting, paragliding, rappelling, riverboarding, or even rock climbing in the nearby Chicamocha Canyon.

Don’t miss out on less extreme adventures too, like taking the short hike to nearby Barichara, among the prettiest colonial towns in all of Colombia.

Read More: Things to Do in San Gil

Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva is located a few hours from Bogota, and it is among the best-preserved colonial towns in Colombia, with very little in the way of development over the past 400 years. Here you will find cobblestone streets, sixteenth-century buildings, and what is believed to be the largest central plaza in all of South America.

The town is also well known for their huge pyrotechnics display on New Year’s Eve, should your visit happen to coincide with that timeframe.

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Perhaps among the most unique churches in the world, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is a Catholic church built inside the tunnels of an underground salt mine, more than 200 meters underground.

The entire church and architectural details were hand-carved and it is considered to be one of the most notable achievements in Colombian architecture.

While the church doesn’t have a bishop and thus has no official status as a cathedral in Catholicism, it still regularly hosts religious services and sees as many as 3,000 visitors on Sundays.

Bogota is the large and bustling capital city, a place that can be somewhat chaotic and overwhelming, but nonetheless is worth visiting as Colombia’s most cosmopolitan city, filled with arts, culture, entertainment, food, and much more.

Whether you are just strolling around the Candelaria neighborhood, browsing the gold museum, or heading up the gondola to the top of Monserrate, Bogota is a cool place and somewhere so very different from the other big cities in Colombia.

Read More: Things to Do in Bogota

Caño Cristales

Caño Cristales is a unique natural attraction known as the red river or the river of seven colors, due to the phenomenon of naturally occurring algae during certain times of the year which turns the river into unreal colors.

The peak time to visit is between July and October, and it isn’t easy to get to, but if you have the time and money to make the trip, it is considered to be one of those once in a lifetime type of journeys. You will need to book a flight to visit, which is most commonly done from Bogota or Villavicencio.

This is a place that is high on my list to visit one of these days.

Most visitors to Colombia explore only a tiny fraction of Colombia and never make it over the Andes to Los Llanos (the plains) and the Amazon. Again, this is a place that you need to fly to in order to visit, as there are no roads that will take you to Leticia.

As part of your trip to Leticia and the headwaters of the Amazon, you can visit the famous Isla de los Micos (Monkey Island) where you can get up close and personal with a ton of monkeys, or you can easily hop on a boat to head into either Brazil or Peru and the numerous small towns along the riverbank.

San Andres & Providencia

Finally, the last of my recommended places to visit in Colombia that involves flying is a trip to the idyllic Caribbean islands of San Andes and Providencia. These two islands are actually located closer to Nicaragua than Colombia but are nonetheless part of Colombia.

For Colombia’s looking for the best beaches and who would rather avoid the crowds in Cartagena and nearby, they fly up to San Andres (which can be done for quite reasonable prices, actually) so they can enjoy white sand beaches and crystal clear water.

Medellin at first blush isn’t the prettiest city (although the surrounding landscape most certainly is) but it is a place that beats with life, energy, and rejuvenation. What was once the world’s most violent city has become perhaps Latin America’s most innovative and forward-looking city…

While things aren’t perfect in Medellin, there is a definitely something about the energy here, perhaps one that can only be found by coming out of some truly dark times. For those reasons, Medellin is my favorite big city in Colombia.

The agreeable climate, affordable cost of living, big-city amenities (like a metro system, huge malls, tons of restaurant and nightlife) have made Medellin a popular destination for travelers. There’s way more than Pablo Escobar , cocaine, and violence, and you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not visiting. There’s also plenty of cool things to do here…

Read More: Things to Do in Medellin

Not too far outside of Medellin, you’ll find the cute little town of Guatape with colorfully painted buildings and a plethora of things to do in this pleasant little tourist town.

Many are drawn here for access to the reservoir where you can head out on a boat tour, but the biggest thing is El Peñol de Guatape, a monstrous rock monolith that juts out of the surrounding landscape. You can climb the 740 stairs to the top where you will get some pretty incredible views of the surrounding water. Highly recommended!

Cali is often overlooked compared to Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota, but it has its own interesting vibe and story… For one, this is the salsa dancing capital of Colombia, so if that’s on your list at all, then you’ve got to come to Cali.

Whether you’re walking the park along Rio Cali, or through the old part of San Antonio, or admiring the architecture of the Ermita Church, there is plenty to love about Cali, although the weather will probably remind you of being back on the sweltering coast.

The nearby city of Buenaventura also makes a popular jumping-off point for Colombia’s wild Pacific Coast. 

Read More: Things to Do in Cali

Tatacoa Desert

Crossing back over one of the cordillera mountain ranges from Cali, you will find the intriguing Tatacoa Desert, just north of Neiva. Here you will find what we usually call badlands in English, where strangely colored desert formations laid out before you.

The landscape is stunning, and the Tatacoa Desert also makes for one of the best places to stargaze in all of Colombia. My only tip is to bring lots of bug spray, there are some annoying biting flies there.

San Agustin

South of Tatacoa, the landscape turns from desert to jungle, where you will find the town of San Agustin. The principle draw here, beyond the waterfalls and beautiful landscapes, is the San Agustin Archeological Park.

This park contains the largest collection of religious monuments in Latin America, famously composed of hundreds of intricately carved rock sculptures, and numerous burial grounds, making it the world’s largest necropolis.

The majority of the statues were believed to have been carved between 50-400 CE and the area was abandoned by 1350 CE, and then mostly forgotten.

The majority of the statues are still housed outdoors, although under small roofs to protect them from the elements.

The white city of Colombia was a huge surprise for me and is certainly among my top favorite mid-size cities… Arguably even more attractive than some of the more famous colonial cities like Barichara or Villa de Leyva. In the old town, you’ll find cobblestone streets and virtually every building painted white.

I loved just walking around the old town, taking pictures, and popping into little coffee shops are grabbing some local empanadas.

There are a number of natural wonders or attractions located nearby as well, which make it a great base for exploration.

Read More: Things to Do in Popayan

The Coffee Axis

The Coffee Axis or Coffee Triangle consists of the area surrounding the three cities of Manizales, Armenia, and Pereira. This coffee region is where the majority of Colombia’s top coffee is cultivated. The scenery here is stunning, with steep hillsides covered in coffee plants.

Be sure to tour a coffee farm in Colombia while in the area, or if you want to goof off, go visit the Parque del Cafe which is an amusement park with thrill rides and a coffee education center. It’s not Universal Studios, but it’s pretty fun.

In terms of the three large cities, I prefer Manizales and Armenia over Pereira. There are a number of cool places to visit nearby such as the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal , and two others that we will talk about now…

Los Nevados

Los Nevados is another one of the top national parks in Colombia, which rivals El Cocuy in terms of the mountainous terrain and snowcapped peaks. There are many active and dormant volcanoes in the park (which give birth to the hot springs) as well as the opportunity to view some very unique Andean ecosystems, such as those you will find in the Paramo.

For those so inclined, it is also the place in Colombia that is most accessible in terms of mountain climbing, allowing you to climb up to heights that far surpass those in the Continental United States.

Valle de Cocora

Perhaps one of the most unique and impressive sights in Colombia is the Valle de Cocora, where wax palms stretch high into the area above the verdant green ground.

These towering wax palms are the tallest palm trees in the world, and while we normally associate palm trees with the beach, these ones happen to lie in the mountains.

The scenery here is absolutely breathtaking, and the nearby town of Salento is one of my favorite little pueblos in all of Colombia. You should spend a few days here to take it all in, whether that is hiking, tasting coffee, or just hanging out in the cool town.

Read More: Hiking Cocora Valley

Finally, my last recommendation in the top places to visit in Colombia is one that sits practically on the border with Ecuador in the far south… The Las Lajas Sanctuary.

The setting of this church is probably the most impressive that I’ve ever seen, more reminiscent of a medieval castle than a church. It sits near the bottom of an impressive valley and is guarded by an imposing-looking bridge. The visit makes for a great way to cap off an amazing trip to Colombia.

More Places to Visit in Colombia

Of course, there is plenty more to see and do in Colombia that I didn’t cover here in this article, whether it is whale watching in Choco, visiting one of the many other national parks, or the numerous amazing small towns like Jardin , there is a lifetime of exploration here. But I hope that this article will give you a great starting point for your own adventures and explorations of the coolest places to visit in Colombia.

If you’ve already traveled to Colombia, is there something you would have included on this list that I didn’t include here? Sound off in the comments below.

Traveling to Colombia soon? Book your lodging on Booking.com now to save, or if you plan to stay longer, I highly recommend looking for a place on Airbnb . And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for Colombia that will help protect you against illness, injury, and theft. I use and recommend World Nomads for its combination of coverage and affordability.

Read Next: Is Colombia Safe?

Colombia Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Colombia, based on my years of traveling and living in Colombia.

Colombia Trip Planning

• Lonely Planet Colombia
• Momondo Flight Search
• ViaHero Itinerary Planning
• Booking.com
• SafetyWing Travel Insurance
• Get Your Guide Tours

Instructions

• Book a cheap fligh t to Colombia with Momondo , or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free. Traveling between major cities is much better by flying, trust me.
• Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend at each destination. Use an itinerary planning service for custom recommendations and pick up Lonely Planet Colombia .
• Work a little every day to teach yourself Spanish , you'll want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
• Book cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking , for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com , for apartments use: Airbnb .
• Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide .
• Purchase travel insurance for Colombia with SafetyWing to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Colombia. VERY important. And be sure to read my article: " Is Colombia Safe? " for my honest opinion and safety tips.
• Sign up for my free emails about planning a better trip to Colombia, and be sure to check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Colombia .
• Learn more money-saving tricks with my top budget travel tips .
• Put together your Colombia packing list .
• Enjoy this incredible country!

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Colombia! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Colombia, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Colombia, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at [email protected].

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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• June 24, 2024

Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Colombia: Top Things to Do

Colombia is blessed with its equatorial position and two coasts that provide a diversity of landscapes matched by a few countries. For this reason, I will show you the top 20 things to do in Colombia because there are many options.

As you change your altitude in Colombia, you go from the hot Caribbean coast to emerald-green hills in the Coffee Triangle. Continuing this same route, you will find Bogotá, the third-highest capital in the world. Later, there are several snow-capped mountains.

Also, Colombia has Los Llanos, a huge 550,000-square-km grassland shared with Venezuela. Throw in some desserts and the Amazon jungle, plus the Pacific coast. Colombia has an amazing diversity of landscapes, and the country is divided into 6 regions. By clicking on the icons, you can find out more information.

Andes Occidentales

Andes orientales.

For this reason, more and more people want to know Colombia. In 2022, according to figures reported by Ministerio de Comercio, Industria y Turismo ( Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism) in  Portfolio magazine : “Colombia received more than 4.6 million non-resident tourists “, an increase of 114.7% compared to 2021.

Jeff lived in Colombia for eight years and had the opportunity to explore many places in the country. In this article, you will find the 20 most surprising tourist attractions for him. They are in alphabetical order and updated for the year 2024 .

If you want to visit any of the destination included in this blog, please contact our partner Apple Travel who can provide you touristic services, as tours, tourist guides, flight tickets and more.

Apple Travel

Get health insurance and travel in colombia safely.

We always recommend having travel medical insurance to assist you in an emergency or if your documents are stolen . This is essential since many foreigners need a good travel insurance policy to save a few bills. You can access the Medellin Guru Insurance Service by clicking the green button below.

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1. Caño Cristales – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Caño Cristales is a famous river in Colombia known as the “ river of five colors ,” which is also considered by many to be “ the most beautiful river in the world .” The river has also been called the “liquid rainbow.”

During several months each year, Caño Cristales becomes a rainbow of vibrant colors, including red, green, yellow, blue, and black hues, in a natural display that reportedly happens nowhere else on Earth.

This river is in the Serranía de la Macarena National Park, located in the Meta department of Colombia. In addition, Caño Cristales is a tributary of the Guayabero River.

Serranía de la Macarena is a protected national park in Colombia that covers 2,500 square miles (6,200 square kilometers). The Serranía de la Macarena park is located where three large ecosystems in Colombia meet, each with a high diversity of flora and fauna : the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountain range, and the savannah plains of the East Llanos.

In the Department of Meta, La Macarena Municipality

Best time to go

Between June and December

More than 9,500 tourists every year

The place is considered one of the most biodiverse areas of Colombia. It reportedly is home to over 500 species of birds, 100 species of reptiles, over 2,000 species of plants, and over 1,200 species of insects.

Visiting this place is more of an adventure trip , as it’s not so easily accessible. You need to get there by a combination of air, boat, 4×4 vehicle, and some hiking. But for Jeff: “It’s an unforgettable trip as the river is breathtakingly beautiful.”

However, from 2023, there will already be a direct flight from Medellín to La Macarena to attract more tourists so that people can reach this attraction more easily.

2. Carnival in Barranquilla – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Carnaval de Barranquilla ( Carnival of Barranquilla ) in Colombia is the most important carnival in the country.

In 2024, Barranquilla’s carnival will be held from February 10 to March 13, 2024 . If you happen to be in Colombia during this time, many consider it a must-see event. Barranquilla’s Carnival slogan is “ q uien lo vive, es quien lo goza” – “those who live it are those who enjoy it. ”

Much of Barranquilla shuts down during the four days of carnival . And enjoy the massive party in Barranquilla.

It is located in the department of Atlantico, on the Colombian coast.

February and March.

More than 670.000 tourists every year.

In 2002, Carnival in Barranquilla was declared a Colombian National Culture Heritage. In 2003 , Carnival of Barranquilla was proclaimed by UNESCO as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

If you plan to go to Carnival in Barranquilla in 2024, it’s not too early to plan , as tickets are already on sale. Also, making your lodging and airline reservations early for this popular event is better because it is the most important carnival in Colombia, and many locals and foreigners want to go; therefore, hotels and tickets sell very quickly.

3. Cartagena – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Oozing history, romance, and sun-drenched beaches, the allure of historical Cartagena is hard to resist .  Inside El Centro  in Cartagena ,  visitors are surrounded by pastel-colored buildings, flower-clad balconies, and vibrantly dressed palenqueras balancing fruit bowls on their heads.

Combine that with the scorching heat, and Cartagena feels more like a Caribbean island . And once you step off the plane onto the searing tarmac, you will think you’ve escaped to a different country.

But you haven’t. And that is the main appeal of a short break to Cartagena from Medellín.  You can experience all the delights of island life with a short one-hour domestic flight from José María Córdova International Airport . And with  inexpensive domestic flights from Medellín, it would be a sin not to venture there.

It is located in the department of Bolívar, in the north of the country.

From December to April is a good idea because it is a dry season in the city.

More than 3,700,000 tourists every year.

Cartagena’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a maze of cobbled streets, balconies, plazas, and churches surrounded by a wall. Also, because: “The port of Cartagena has the most complete set of fortifications in all of South America.”

Since the pandemic in 2020, Cartagena was no longer a cruise destination; however, in 2023, this changed, and from October, the arrival of more than 190 ships to the city is expected, which is expected to increase tourism in this city.

There is so much to see and do in Cartagena . So, we provide a recommended itinerary for 72 hours in Cartagena .

4. Ciudad Perdida – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Ciudad Perdida is the site of an ancient city in Colombia that is older than Machu Picchu in Peru . It’s a challenging but rewarding hike with ancient ruins, jungle, river crossings, native villages, waterfalls, and much more. Ciudad Perdida is also one of the largest pre-Columbian towns discovered in the Americas.

It is located deep in the Sierra Nevada coastal mountains near Santa Marta . It remains accessible only on foot and is one of Colombia’s most exciting and breathtaking hikes. This is definitely one of the most rewarding and challenging hikes I have been on.

Ciudad Perdida is an archaeological site of an ancient city in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains near Santa Marta. It is believed to have been founded about 800 CE , about 650 years earlier than Machu Picchu in Peru.

It is located in La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in the north of the country.

Between June and February because they are dry periods in the area, ideal for walking.

Since the walk is between 4 and 6 days, wear comfortable clothing and mosquito repellent.

For about 350 years, Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) was hidden from all but occasional natives . But Ciudad Perdida was discovered in 1972 when a group of local treasure looters found a series of stone steps rising up the mountainside and followed them to the abandoned city.

The hike to Ciudad Perdida is one of the most amazing things to do in Colombia . But it’s not for everyone due to being a four-day to six-day hike in the jungle.

Pretty much everybody knows about Machu Picchu in Peru. Ciudad Perdida in Colombia remains much less discovered by tourists, with perhaps only a few hundred tourists visiting it each week.

If you go to Ciudad Perdida in Colombia, you will have something to really remember . And the fantastic landscapes and views plus the sense of remoteness will stay with you for a long time.

5. Colombia's Pacific Coast – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

The Pacific coast of Colombia is often overlooked by tourists visiting Colombia. The relative difficulty of getting to the Pacific coast (the area is only accessible by domestic flights), coupled with the lack of Internet and developed tourist infrastructure, makes many people visit a place like Cartagena on the Caribbean coast or islands such as San Andrés. But there are many things to see and do on Colombia’s Pacific coast.

Colombia’s Pacific coast can be considered somewhat wild and mysterious . And it’s also considered relatively remote. But for the slightly more adventurous traveler who wants to experience untamed nature and undiscovered beauty that is off the beaten path for most foreign tourists, the Pacific coast can offer some of the best of Colombia.

The region is one of the most biodiverse places in Colombia and the world: “It is home to more than 62 species of birds and dozens of fish. Other important species in this region are the jaguar, the titi monkey, the humpback whales that visit the coasts of Chocó for almost three months to give birth to their babies, and the harpy eagle. And the most poisonous vertebrate in the world: the golden poison frog.”

Located in the Pacific Region, in the west of the country.

If you want to see the whales, the best time is to go between the months of July and October

Always remember to preserve and respect nature in every space you visit.

In addition, the local hospitality is unparalleled. And the beaches are the perfect place to relax and soak up the silence – when the rain stops long enough for you to enjoy them.

From unspoiled beaches to wild jungles and humpback whales, there is much to do, and we looked at 12 things to do on Colombia’s Pacific coast .

There are not many destinations in Colombia as ruggedly spectacular as the Pacific coast of Colombia. But don’t expect to find the luxurious accommodations you can find on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. But there are several comfortable eco-resorts/hotels .

This place is off the beaten path for most foreign tourists . So, the few who venture to this little-visited area of Colombia will find unspoiled beaches, wild jungles, majestic whales, and unforgettable people.

6. Desierto de la Tatacoa – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Tatacoa Desert ( Desierto de la Tatacoa ) is located in the Colombian Department of Huila , about 24 miles (38 km) from Neiva in Colombia. In addition, the Tatacoa Desert is considered the second-largest arid zone in Colombia, and the first is La Guajira .

The stunning and surreal desert landscapes in the area and fossil remains, plus being considered a good location for star gazing , make it a popular tourist area. Tatacoa has almost no pollution or noise. So, it attracts tourists who enjoy the silence, scenery, and tranquility. But it is still off the beaten path for foreign tourists.

Technically, the Tatacoa Desert is not really a proper desert. Some say it is semi-desert, and others say it’s a semi-arid, dry tropical forest. You can sometimes experience rain at night in the area . Also, the area is heavily eroded and has dry canyons that develop transiently.

In the department of Huila, in the southwest of the country.

June, July and August because there is not as much chance of rain

More than 4,000 tourist every year.

This desert area is filled with rocky canyons that form dry labyrinths in red and grey colors that are interrupted by occasional green bushes.

This provides access to some stunning and surreal desert landscapes in Colombia. 

Also, the Tatacoa Desert is located in the middle of nowhere . So, it’s a tranquil place and a great place to enjoy the natural beauty in the area with some amazing views.

7. Guatapé – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Picturesque Guatapé is a very popular pueblo to visit from Medellín. It’s a great place for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Medellín. I think no trip to Medellín and Antioquia would be complete without a trip to Guatapé . And it’s likely the most visited pueblo in Colombia by foreigners.

This is located next to the massive man-made lake created by a hydroelectric dam built in the 1970s. So, it’s now a lakeside pueblo with many sidewalk restaurants and cafes, plus water activities in the area. Also, there is Peñón de Guatapé, which is a gigantic rock with incredible views of the lake and surrounding area.

Guatapé is easy to get to. It’s only about two hours away from Medellín . The pueblo is also extremely colorful, with the homes painted in many colors, and many have additional decorations .

It is located in the department of Antioquia, in the northwest of the country.

The weather is the same all year, however between February and May, you will find fewer people

If you want to climb the stone, remember to wear comfortable shoes and water

Guatapé is also known as “The city of the zócalos,” and in addition to having colorful houses, one of the most important characteristics of its buildings is the zócalos , a tile with drawings of animals, traditions, and more, which represents each of the families in the town.

While it is possible to go there as a day trip from Medellín, there is much to do to keep you entertained and make it worth staying overnight.

This area is one of the most tourist areas in Antioquia and Colombia. However, there are no official figures from the government of how many visitors arrive each year, but the guides are encouraged to say that approximately up to 50,000 people can visit on weekends .

8. La Guajira Peninsula – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

La Guajira Peninsula is one of South America’s most visually stunning places  worth visiting. La Guajira Peninsula is a desert environment located along the northern coast of Colombia.

This desert region is the northern tip of Colombia and South America. The region is home to the indigenous Wayúu people .

This place also keeps part of the incredible biodiversity that Colombia has. It is home to over 1,000 pink flamingos and is an ideal bird-watching place since it has more than 252 species. It is home to 26% of the country’s bird diversity .

It is located in the municipality of Riohacha, in the north of the country.

from January to February, August to September. In this period, there is a warm temperature and little precipitation

Travel light and with a small backpack.

Remember, this hostile desert climate has isolated it since colonial times. Also, this barren peninsula is about 149 miles (240 km) long and no more than 31 miles (50 km) wide.

In addition, La Guajira is off the beaten path of foreign tourists and can provide an “end-of-the-world” feel . Furthermore, about a third of the driving is off-road. But if you are looking for a beach all to yourself, this adventure is for you.

The La Guajira Peninsula’s capital is Riohacha , about 109 miles (175) km northeast of Santa Marta. And it has a population of over 170,000. Also, this is where most La Guajira tours start.

Several tour companies in Santa Marta offer multi-day tours of the La Guajira Peninsula. Also, we included La Guajira Peninsula in our list of 16 top things to do in Santa Marta .

9. Las Lajas Sanctuary – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Las Lajas Sanctuary ( Santuario de Lajas ) is arguably considered the most beautiful church in Colombia . It’s also considered by many to be one of the most beautiful churches in the world. The Telegraph even named Las Lajas Sanctuary the most beautiful church in the world in 2015, and in 2007, it was named one of the 7 wonders of Colombia .

The church sits on a 130-foot-tall bridge over the Guáitara river. In addition, it’s located less than seven miles from the Ecuadorian border.

In Ipiales in the southern Colombian, Department of Nariño.

Easter week.

More than 750,000 tourists every year.

This is a Gothic Revival-style church built inside a canyon of the Guáitara river. So, it’s often been called a jewel of engineering . This Roman Catholic church is dedicated to the veneration of Our Lady of Las Lajas Ipiales.

The Las Lajas Sanctuary is famous for its stunning architecture , a series of legends involving the appearance of the Holy Virgin, and a mysterious mural of which nobody knows its origins.

This is considered one of the world’s most beautiful churches . And it’s definitely worth visiting if you are crossing the Ecuador/Colombia border by land. In addition, we have looked at the top 14 churches in Medellín .

10. Medellín's Christmas Lights – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

One event that Medellín is famous for is the annual Medellín Christmas lights display, known as Alumbrados Navideños  or  El Alumbrado.

The first public Christmas lighting in Medellín reportedly happened in 1851 at Plaza Mayor, which is currently the location of Medellín’s large convention center.

This tradition began in 1955 when EPM was consolidated as a public utilities company. Starting that year, part of the city was adorned with a modest special Christmas lights display jointly funded by EPM, the local government, and the press.

By 1967, EPM started to manage Medellín’s Christmas events each year . In addition, the company became responsible for designing, installing, and funding the light display.

Medellín is located in the department of Antioquia, in the northwest of the country.

December and January.

More than 7 million tourists every year.

Over the years, the annual Christmas lights were broadened in scope. So, they are now considered one of the biggest tourist attractions in Medellin. Tourists come from around the world to Medellín to see Alumbrados Navideños,  and now they can use private transportation services from the airport to Medellin or to any other destination. Click on the green button below and choose the type of service you want (unique trip or round trip).

Medellin Guru services

At Medellin Guru, we want to recommend the services of Medellin Airport to City , a company with extensive experience transporting foreigners.

Something characteristic of the lighting in Medellín is that the Medellín River is crossed , and areas such as El Parque Norte   Parques del Rio are also illuminated; it is also a good idea to visit places close to the city, such as Envigado or Sabaneta Park , which have amazing Christmas lights.

Each year, up to 4 million people see the Alumbrados Navideños display in the city. However, in 2023, a record was broken when more than 7 million tourists arrived to see the city’s lighting, especially because in that edition, they were inspired by the Disney movie “Encanto.”

11. Medellín's Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Medellín’s biggest annual festival is the La Feria de las Flores (Festival of Flowers). 

This is a huge annual celebration of paisa culture. 2023 was the 66  annual Feria de las Flores in Medellín. And the theme was “ Florecer es alegría ” or “flowering is joy” in English.

The Festival of Flowers schedule is packed with many big and small events. In 2023, there were over 400 different events between public and private  for La Feria de las Flores.

More than 50,000 international travelers every year.

The first Feria de las Flores, or flower festival, reportedly occurred in Medellin in May 1957 . It was intended to host a tribute to the thriving flower business in the Medellín area.

It all started with the municipality of Santa Elena, when every week without fail, the silleteros went down to Medellín to sell their flowers and took an hour-long walk to reach the city. Seeing this route was so beautiful that they decided to make it a tradition and the city’s main festival. If you want to travel safe from the airport to Medellin and book in advance your pick up and assist to Feria de Flores, get the Medellin Airport to City service .

Medellin Airport to City

In 1968, the month of the festival was changed to August . This was done to celebrate the independence of Antioquia. Over the next 60 years, additional events were added to the festival, increasing the duration to 10 to 11 days each year.

The three big headliner events during Feria de las Flores each year are the big super concert, the classic car parade, and the flower parade.   And each year, we publish a popular Feria de las Flores guid e with a schedule and expat tips.

12. Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Los Nevados, also known as Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados (Los Nevados National Natural Park), is a popular national park in the country, located in the heart of the coffee region in Colombia. It’s a beautiful park known for its snow-capped volcanoes, glaciers, lakes, and forests.

It is located in the Central Andes, the highest of the three branches of the Colombian Andes. The park was created in 1973 to help conserve important ecosystems, such as three glaciers in Colombia, high Andean wetlands, and high Andean forests.

It is located in the coffee region of the central Andes of Colombia.

From December to March because the temperature is warmer

More than 52,000 tourist every year.

The rivers that descend from Parque Los Nevados’ snow peaks supply water to the farmlands and aqueducts of cities, towns, and villages in the center of Colombia .

Visit this place, which provides access to some of the most stunning stretches of the Colombian Andes with incredible landscapes . The varied altitudes in this park encompass everything from humid cloud forests to glaciers on the highest peaks.

This place is ideal for those looking for a connection with nature , ideal for bird watchin g, such as the snowy parakeet, the parrot, or the Andean condor, and for those who enjoy the diversity of flora in Colombia , you will find the famous frailejón and the wax palm, something very representative of Colombia

13. Parque Tayrona – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Parque Tayrona, also known as  Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona (Tayrona National Natural Park), is a popular national park in Colombia located along Colombia’s Caribbean coast that is known for its beautiful beaches and biodiversity. Parque Tayrona is a tourist hotspot in Colombia.

Tayrona Park comprises 12,000 terrestrial and 3,000 marine hectares, making it one of the areas with the greatest species diversity in  Colombi a and South America.

In the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in the department of Magdalena.

Between March and May because during these months there is a dry period and the number of tourists is lower.

More than 450.000 tourist every year.

If you want to learn more about Medellín and other cities in Colombia , download the ProColombia guide “Colombia: A Must-See Destination.”

Medellin Guru Guides

Download the guide Colombia: a must-see destination from ProColombia with helpful information about Medellín and Colombia

14. Popayán – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Colonial gem Popayán in Colombia is best known for its white buildings and beautiful churches . It’s a city off the beaten path for foreign tourists to Colombia, but Popayán is definitely worth visiting.

Popayán is the capital of the Cauca department in Colombia. The city’s historical downtown is considered one of Colombia and Latin America’s most beautiful and best-preserved Colonial centers .

In addition, the city has a strong religious presence with many churches and traditions like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and gastronomy recognized by UNESCO for the fusion of Spanish, indigenous, and Afro-descendant cultures.

It is located in the department of Cauca, in the southwest of the country.

Holy Week for religious plans or from June to September for its warm weather.

More than 77.500 visitors during Holy Week every year.

All these ingredients make Popayán a recommended destination during your trip to Colombia. It’s a lesser-known city in Colombia with a vibrant history and beautiful Colonial architecture .

Popayán has a colonial architecture matching  Cartagena’s , a history rivaling the history of Bogotá or Medellín, and a religious presence as prestigious as Jericó . All those ingredients make Popayán a unique and admiring place to visit.

15. Rio Claro Nature Reserve – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Rio Claro Nature Reserve ( Reserva Natural Cañon de Río Claro ) is considered by many as one of the must-do activities in Antioquia . It is located only about three hours from Medellín.

the perfect place to enjoy abundant nature with a picturesque crystal-clear river , canyon, and tropical rainforest. In addition, it enables completely unplugging from the hectic pace of daily life in the city.

Established in 1970, the 1,606-acre (650-hectare) Rio Claro Nature Reserve is a private reserve , and it’s a spectacular example of Colombia’s biodiversity. It is located about 94 miles (152 km) southeast of Medellín on the Medellín – Bogotá highway.

Almost every reserve area offers a view of the river , canyon, and tropical rainforest. This exquisite framing creates a Garden of Eden effect, further accentuating the sublime chorus of birds, insects, and monkeys.

In a region known as the middle basin of the Magdalena River, in Antioquia.

Every month of the year because the climate is the same, between 23 and 25 degrees.

It is recommended to bring anti-mosquito repellent.

Here, the diversity is not simply geological . Animal species within the reserve are estimated at 100 species of mammals, 350 species of birds, 70 species of reptiles, 45 species of amphibians, and 50 species of fish, beyond abundant species of insects and invertebrates.

There is a two-hour and thirty-minute Class I and II rafting trip in inflatable rafts. This rafting trip provides access to bird, reptile, and monkey sightings and a leisurely swimming break. Also, there are many swimming beaches throughout the reserve.

Rio Claro is truly the quintessential place to unplug . There are no TVs here, and Wi-Fi is only available at the main entrance reception area. So, let the jungle sounds lull you to peaceful sleep and discover the extraordinary beauty of nature.

16. Salento and the Cocora Valley – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

This is a picturesque pueblo in Colombia’s coffee region , and the nearby Cocora Valley is one of the most striking landscapes found in Colombia.

Salento is a sleepy pueblo in Colombia’s coffee region that is definitely worth visiting. Salento is a relatively small pueblo , occupying just 12 calles by 10 carreras. It’s a place where horses trot down the street unmounted, and roosters can be heard crowing in the morning.

Like many  Colombian pueblos , Salento’s white-walled homes and shops have vibrantly painted doors and windows in eye-catching cobalt, tangerine, and turquoise shades.

It is located in the Department of Quindio, in the northeastern sector of the country.

Between December and March because it is their summer season

This is an excellent area for you to enjoy the best Colombian coffee

It is located in the Central Cordillera of the Andean mountains . It’s a place to come to reconnect with nature. Somewhere to take long hikes and indulge in lots of food.

Near Salento is the spectacular Cocora Valley ( Valle de Cocora ). This breathtaking area of Colombia is surrounded by emerald green hills and dotted with the country’s national tre e – the wax palm.

Something characteristic is that the wax palm reaches unusual heights , not only for a palm but for any other type of tree, reaching between 60 and 80 meters.

Coming to Salento without going to the Cocora Valley would be like going to Paris and not visiting the Eiffel Tower. You have to do it.

17. San Agustín Archaeological Park – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Colombia has the largest group of pre-Columbian monuments and megalithic statues in South America that are located in the San Agustín Archaeological Park ( Parque Arqueologico ). This site was even named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 because it has South America’s largest set of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures.

The sizable park features the largest complex in South America of pre-Columbian megalithic funerary monuments and statuary, burial mounds, terraces, funerary structures, and stone statuary.

Volcanic stones from now-extinct nearby volcanoes proved irresistible to the local sculptors , who worked the stones into grand monuments. The result is well over 500 statues scattered over a wide area in the lush green hills. The statues vary in height, with the tallest being 23 feet (7 meters) high.

Little is known about the people who inhabited this area and carved the statues. The dates of the statues are not known but are believed by some to have been carved sometime between 50 to 400 A.D. The statues include human figures, animals, deities, and monsters .

Between the municipalities of Isnos and San Agustín, in the department of Huila.

From January to April because the weather is cooler

More than 88.000 tourist every year.

The result is a mystical place in a spectacular landscape worth visiting, particularly if you like impressive archaeological sites. I would say this site is comparable to Easter Island’s Moai statues, but not quite on the same scale.

San Agustín Archaeological Park has a seemingly endless count of fantastic stone statues located in green hills and surrounded by valleys and mountains.

Remember that you can visit this park every day, except Tuesdays, because they close it to the public that day. In fact, they do this at different times of the year in many places in Colombia to preserve and prevent them from being damaged.

18. San Andrés – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Colombia’s Caribbean island is San Andrés , a popular vacation location. San Andrés is so different from Colombia that you will think you are in another country . In addition, San Andrés is located closer to Nicaragua than it is to Colombia.

The archipelago and several other islands are a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It features many beaches, islets, and coral reefs that are filled with flora and fauna.

In San Andrés, according to figures from the Botanical Garden of the Universidad Nacional Sede Caribe , a total of 198 species of birds are recorded, most of them migratory. On the other hand, it is believed that there are about 653 species of fish.

It is located in the west of the Caribbean Sea in Central America.

From December to May because it is a season without rain.

More than 1.38 million tourist every year.

San Andrés even have their own language to speak; it is called “creole,” a mix of English, Spanish, and African languages. But they also speak Spanish on the island. They use Criolé to communicate among the isleños (people born in San Andrés).

Also, there are many things to do in San Andrés, with beaches, snorkeling, diving, good seafood, several small islands nearby, and so much more. It’s definitely worth adding San Andrés to your list of places to visit in Colombia, e specially because it is known as the sea of seven colors.

19. San Gil – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Known as “ Colombia’s Adventure Capital, ” with so much to do nearby, including white water rafting, paragliding, caving, rappelling, hiking, and much more.

San Gil is a pueblo in the Santander Department of Colombia with a population of less than 50,000. It was founded in 1689. So, San Gil is over 300 years old. In 2004, San Gil was named the tourist capital of Santande r.

It is located in the department of Santander, in the northwest of the country.

From June to September and from December to February. because there is no rainy season.

More than 34.000 tourist every year.

It is being discovered yearly by more foreign tourists, but it’s still off the beaten path for most tourists visiting Colombia.

There is so much to do nearby that you could spend weeks there and not experience everything because a few minutes away, you will find other towns such as Barichara, Pozo Azul, and Peñon Guane, which are also ideal for those who enjoy extreme adventures. So, it’s definitely worth adding San Gil to your list of places to visit in Colombia.

20. San Jose del Guaviare – Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

As little as two years ago, the small town of San Jose del Guaviare in Colombia was a complete no-go zone for tourists . The region was associated for decades with drug trafficking and the ongoing violence that plagued Colombia for decades.

Now, it is emerging as a prime destination for eco-tourism, and rightfully so. Sandwiched between the plains of Los Llanos and the thick jungle of the Amazon, San Jose del Guaviare offers infinite opportunities for anyone looking to get off the beaten track and experience a true adventure.

San Jose del Guaviare is a truly fascinating and beautiful region . Also, the eco-tourism industry is breathing new life into the area and providing opportunities for work and growth.

Located north of the department of Guaviare, between the Orinoquía and the Amazonas.

between June and September.

Always remember to take your tours in this place accompanied by a local guide, to avoid getting lost in the jungle.

And that is without going into the area’s wealth of activities and sights. From wildlife watching to jungle trekking to delving into Colombia’s prehistoric past.

For those who enjoy nature , in the jungle, you can also take guided tours to watch exotic bird s such as the soldier egret, the white and brown heron, the royal parrot, the palm parrot, the macaw, the gallant, and the toucan. , the gaván, the dirty-faced parakeet, among others.

This is truly an unforgettable experience for any traveler who wants to see a different part of the country.

Visit and explore Colombia

Below we leave you some blogs that can help you if you want to know more Colombia.

Medellín vs Cartagena: Which is the Better City to Live In?

15 places to visit in Cartagena: Prepare to Be Amazed by the Final Destination

5 Best Neighborhoods in Medellín: A Guide to Choosing a Neighborhood

What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Medellín and the Aburrá Valley?

8 Best Pueblos Near Medellín Worth a Visit Including Hidden Gems

Is Cartagena Safe? Cartagena Security and Safety Tips – 2024 Update

Emergency Directory Guides to Ensure Your Safety in Colombia

25 Top Things to Do in Cali and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions

Is Medellín Safe? Security in Medellín and Safety Tips – 2024 Update

Parque Arví: The Ultimate Guide to Medellín’s Parque Arví – Update 2024

Norte de Santander: 5 Escapes for a Weekend Adventure

Unlock Ipiales in 24 Hours: Your Essential Adventure Blueprint!

Pasto: Discover the wonders of the Surprise City

Villa de Leyva: A Colonial Gem in the Colombian Andes

3 best cities to live as a digital nomad in Colombia

How to Get to Medellín from the Airport

11 Top Laureles coffee shops: Where to find good coffee

The Ultimate Guide to Laureles for Expats Living in Laureles

El Poblado vs Laureles: Which is the Better Neighborhood to Live in?

Colombia has amazing destinations to explore and a great variety, among which its beaches, mountains, rivers and jungles stand out. You will always find something new to do. Therefore, it is very easy to fall in love with Colombia and the only risk is that you want to stay. So...

In this comprehensive analysis, we aim to shed light on the key differences between two of Colombia's most popular cities: Medellín vs Cartagena. By comparing them on 19 different categories, we hope to provide expats with valuable insights that can help them decide which city is better suited for their...

Discover this Caribbean Gem through our curated list of 15 places to visit in Cartagena. Prepare to be amazed as you delve into the heroic city's rich history, vibrant culture, and tropical paradise vibes, from strolling through the walled streets to immersing yourself in the colorful energy of Getsemaní and...

Discover the 5 best neighborhoods in Medellín for foreigners and make an informed decision about where to live. The blog talks about cost of living, safety, and walkability analysis to guide you in searching for the perfect place to call home.

Are you an expat looking for the safest neighborhood to live in Medellín and the Aburrá Valley? We have researched and analyzed several neighborhoods to find the safest place for expats interested in establishing their lives in Medellin.

Discover the beauty of Antioquia by exploring our curated list of the 8 best pueblos near Medellín. From the ever-popular destinations of Guatapé, Santa Fe de Antioquia, Jardín, Jericó, and Barbosa to the lesser-known hidden gems, this list will inspire you to embark on a journey of exploration and adventure.

Medellin Guru's Comprehensive Visa and Passport Series

The Colombian visa changes that went into effect in October 2022 were significant. So, on the Medellin Guru site, we have a comprehensive series of visa articles that are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions. These articles include:

• Colombia Visa Guide: Ultimate Guide How to Get a Colombian Visa
• How to Obtain a Colombian Visa with Up-to-Date Info – an overview of all the Colombian visas
• Popular Colombian Visas for Foreigners: Which Visa is the Most Popular?
• Coronavirus Impacts on Colombian Visas and Tourist Visas
• Visa Agencies: A Guide to Visa Agencies in Medellín and Colombia
• 9Common Colombian Visa Mistakes: How to Avoid Them

We have looked in detail at the nine most popular Colombian visas used by foreigners:

• Digital Nomad Visa
• Retirement visa
• Marriage visa
• Investment visa
• Business Visa
• Resident visa
• Student visa
• Visitor visa

Also, we have looked in detail at three additional Colombian visas, which are less popular for foreigners:

• Rentista visa (annuity visa) – for foreigners with a fixed income
• Beneficiary visa – for relatives of visa holders
• Expertise visa – for professionals

In addition, we have a guide to Colombia tourist visas and how to extend a tourist visa . Also, we have a guide to renewing U.S. passports in Colombia and a guide to obtaining a Colombian passport .

Furthermore, we provide information about travel insurance that meets the insurance requirement for Colombian visas. And we have a guide to how apply for a cedula extranjeria in Colombia and a guide to using notaries in Medellín and Colombia . Finally, Medellin Guru has partnered with a visa agency to offer Colombia visa services .

All of our Colombia visa articles are up to date (2023) and constantly receive updates in 2024.

If you want to know more information about visas and how to live legally in Colombia , we recommend expatgroup.co . They are our allies and many of our readers have carried out successful visa processes with them.

Medellin Guru Visa Service

The visa agency we partnered with has helped 1.330 Medellin Guru reader

The Bottom Line: Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Colombia – Top Things to Do in Colombia

More and more people are visiting Colombia each year. For example, in 2022, according to figures reported by Ministerio de Comercio, Industria y Turismo ( Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism) in  Portafolio magazine : “Colombia received more than 4.6 million non-resident tourists “, an increase of 114.7% compared to 2021.”

Until this article was written, these were the destinations that surprised Jeff in Colombia . However, this article will continue to be updated as new tourist places in the country become known.

What is your favorite place or attraction in Colombia that should be on this list?

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5 thoughts on “Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Colombia: Top Things to Do”

I would also add Parque del Cafe in Armenia, although a 3 hour ride from Cali, it was a lot of fun and we learned things about the coffee process that we never knew.

Thanks for the helpful article. I haven’t been to many places in Colombia yet but I plan to go to several of these places next year.

Thanks for the nice article. Colombia has some amazing places to visit and many of them haven’t been discovered by foreigners yet.

Nice post with some great photos. Keep in mind some Spanish is needed at all Colombia places with few Colombians speaking English. But Colombians are all warm, welcoming and helpful. And it’s a safe country for the most part.

Thanks, great article with some nice photos. I have only been to 6 attractions on this list so many more to check out. I plan to go to carnival in Barranquilla next year for the first time.

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

One of the most diverse and scenic destinations in South America is the country of Colombia. Boasting everything from beaches to mountains to swamps surrounding the Amazon River, Colombia truly has it all.

1. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

2. Tayrona National Park

3. Cartagena's Old Town

4. Monserrate

5. Santuario de Las Lajas

6. Carnaval de Barranquilla

7. Los Nevados National Park

8. Cano Cristales

9. Ciudad Perdida

10. Valle de Cocora

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TOP 10 AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT IN COLOMBIA

April 18, 2024, 7:10 pm

There are endless places to visit in Colombia. When our readers ask us which destinations we recommend to visit during their  tour  to Colombia, even for us, it is tough to choose. There are so much to see in Colombia, from historical colonial cities to spectacular natural parks or amazing virgin beaches.

Therefore, today we decided to write about ten of the most amazing places to visit in Colombia, so you can have a general idea of what you can see there and where you would like to go. 

10. La Candelaria in Bogota

The historic centre of Bogota is an incredible place for a tour. It is impossible to escape "history" when you are there. Many streets still retain their colonial charm and quite often you'll find plaques reminding you that you are walking the same streets as some famous people. Antonio Nariño, the first vice president of Colombia or Policarpa (commonly known as "La Pola"), was a famous colonial and revolutionary martyr.

In the historic centre of Bogota, you can have a cup of world-famous Colombian coffee atop one of the most famous and iconic mountain peaks in Colombia—Cerro Monserrate. You can also check out the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum) which house the largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold work in the world. You won't leave this recently renovated and incredible museum disappointed. While in the historic centre of Bogota, go ahead and check out the central plaza—Plaza de Bolívar and the famous historic neighbourhood, La Candelaria. If you've got the time, spend some time in the churches scattered about the city centre, especially la Iglesia de San Francisco and La Tercera. 

9. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

The small town of Zipaquira is famous for its salt mines and for the  Salt Cathedral  built inside the network of monumental chambers and tunnels that were left behind when commercial mining operations ceased. This cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Colombia because it's unlike any other in the world, in terms of its innovative architecture. It was opened in 1995 and represents an eclectic mix of religion and architecture. To maximise the protection from the ever-present risks of working in a mine.

The stations of the cross path across the mine is a poignant representation of Jesus' last moments, which culminates in the three-part cavernous subterranean cathedral. Visitors are impressed not only by the incredible engineering work and sculptures but also by the religious meaning and importance of this place for the miners. 

Mompox is a stunning Colombian town renowned for its architecture, culture and its incredible natural surrounding landscape. Mompox is a town frozen in time. While the rest of the country has evolved and modernised, Mompox looks pretty much as it used to be during colonial times, for this reason, it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1995.

Santa Cruz de Mompox (its official name) is located on an island surrounded by an arm of the Magdalena River, in the Momposina depression between the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Sierra de San Lucas. The town was founded in 1540 and was an important trading centre during Spanish rule due to its strategic location. The Magdalena is Colombia's longest river and was the main transport route from the Caribbean coast to the centre of the country during colonial times. Mompox was also a safe place for the Spaniards to keep gold and other treasures protected from the siege of pirates and a refuge for the families running away from the pirate attacks in Cartagena.

7. Barichara

Perhaps the best-known town in Santander . Barichara lies a mere 2.5 hours outside the Santanderian capital city of Bucaramanga, but couldn't be more different. Barichara has been deemed "the prettiest town in Colombia," and offers a charming, colonial, and romantic atmosphere. When visiting this picturesque little town, make sure you check out the local artisan shops and try some hormigas culonas (giant ants)-a regional speciality. Also, visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate, and climb to the Church of Santa Barbara, located at the top of a hill overlooking the town.

6. Cabo de la Vela in La Guajira

A visit to Cabo de la Vela requires a quite long journey to the north of the Caribbean coast, in the department of La Guajira , but it is worth it!

La Guajira with its desert and almost alien landscapes and the proud heritage and traditions of its indigenous inhabitants (the 'Wayuu') is one of the most memorable and remote places you can visit in Colombia. With Cabo de la Vela documented as the first point in the South American continent were a European laid foot back in 1499.

At Cabo de la Vela, you will find beautiful places like The "Pilon de Azucar, a small peak, from where you will see the stunning views of the region, and the beach "Ojo de agua" a very nice beach to relax. Enjoy one of these spectacular places to visit in Colombia and take a refreshing bath in the Caribbean sea. You will spend the night in one of the Rancherias managed by the local community, where you will have plenty of time to relax and learn a little bit about the Wayuu culture.

5. Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva is definitely the most touristy and popular town in Boyaca . This colonial village frozen in time will make you feel like you have been transported back to colonial times. Magnificent colonial structures surround its main plaza and, a beautiful parish church, the area of the plaza is about 14000 square meters, and it is considered the largest plaza in Colombia. The town has various historic sites, which are also museums like La Casa Museo Antonio Nariño, (Antonio Nariño is a Colombian independence hero), the Museo del Carmen, a religious museum exhibiting valuable paintings and sacred objects from the 16th century onwards. But also, and the Paleontological Museum, which has a collection of fossils dating from the Cretaceous and Mesozoic period when the sea covered this area.

Near Villa de Leyva you can also visit the Archeological Park of Moniquira, also known as "El Infiernito". This is an old Muisca sanctuary with a solar calendar and monumental sculptures to the fertility of the land. You can also visit the Fossil Museum to see the petrified skeleton of a large marine reptile that inhabited this region 120 million years ago.

Spend three days in Boyaca including Villa de la Leyva and other towns off the beaten track during a unique tour. 

4. The Coffee Region

Colombia's Coffee Region  is also called the Coffee Triangle, one of the many unique places to visit in Colombia! You can tour this fertile region, located in the heart of the Andes, where the majority of the famous Colombian coffee is produced. This region is not only blessed with the perfect weather conditions to grow the best quality coffee but also with a great variety of options for rural tourism. Including visits to coffee farms to learn about the coffee production process, hiking in natural parks or visiting traditional Paisa towns. 

3. Cartagena

Cartagena is the capital city of the Colombian department of Bolívar and is located along the central part of the Colombian Caribbean Coast. Cartagena was declared a World Heritage Site in 1984 for its historical importance as a port city, as well as for its impressive fortification. It was one of the first cities founded in Latin America so its colourful streets are full of history. It is within the walled city that you will find the historic heart and soul of this colonial city. The architecture, the historical sites, the colours, the sounds, the aromas and the atmosphere within the walled city are not only inspiring, but many say they also come together to create the perfect ambience for a little romance. Spend a few days in this beautiful city and also visit the spectacular Islas del Rosario, see a tour itinerary.

2. Tayrona National Natural Park

The Tayrona National Natural Park is another place of immense natural beauty with a high diversity of fauna and flora. The park lies at the Caribbean coast near Santa Marta. It is home to the most beautiful beaches in the country. You can spend a day hiking along with its rainforest eco-system and sandy beaches and have the opportunity to swim, or practice snorkelling at some of the beaches where it is safe to do it.

1. Caño Cristales

Caño Cristales is the most beautiful river in Colombia and perhaps one of the most unspoiled natural places to visit in this diverse country. Caño Cristales is located inside the National Natural Park La Macarena in the department of Meta in the Eastern region of Colombia known as The Plains .

Caño Cristales is a unique natural wonder due to its outstanding combination of colours like yellow, green, blue, black and especially the red colour is given by the sub-aquatic plant "Macarenia clavigera". This plant lines on the floor of the river and turns red during the wet season (from June to November); during this period of the year, the water flows too fast and deep, obscuring the bottom of the river and cutting off sunlight that turns the Macarenia clavigera red. The other colours are given by the minerals found on the rocks of the river.

At Caño Cristales, you can trek along the three branches of the river to see the spectacular succession of rapids, waterfalls and natural pools running throughout the old rocks of the canyon. There, you can take pictures, swim or just enjoy the astonishing views of this paradisiacal place. See our  tour  to Caño Cristales.

We hope you decide to travel to as many of these fantastic places to visit in Colombia during your holiday in Colombia! 

And if you're planning your Colombia Tour get in touch to give you ideas and help you with the organisation of your trip.

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• Places to visit in Colombia
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Nidia Penagos

Nidia started Uncover Colombia after feeling the tug to promote her native country through a positive perspective. What better way to do that than showing visitors the beauty and diversity of her homeland? She was well-aware Colombia didn’t have the best reputation and she wanted to change that. So in 2012, with the help of her Colombian husband and close group of friends, she laid the foundation to build a Colombian tour operator that offers unique adventures, safe experiences and utilises local knowledge on each and every tour. 

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Destinations , south america, 12 top tourist attractions & things to do in colombia.

Colombia stands out as one of the most gratifying countries to explore, making it a natural magnet for tourists visiting South America. From serene Caribbean islands and captivating colonial towns to lush mountain jungles, verdant coffee plantations, and vibrant nightlife scenes, Colombia offers a multitude of experiences that could keep travelers engaged for months.

Distinguished as the sole country on the continent boasting both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, Colombia ranks among the world’s seventeen megadiverse nations. Its interior is adorned with sweeping valleys, snow-capped volcanoes, and the vast Amazon rainforest, while its sun-kissed shores feature breathtaking beaches and picturesque coves.

Equally diverse are its cities and towns, with Cartagena and Popayan renowned for their charming colonial centers, and Cali and Barranquilla celebrated for their lively nightlife, vibrant salsa scene, and festive carnivals. The capital city, Bogota, and the second-largest city, Medellin, each have their unique charms, offering excellent cuisine, panoramic views, and top-notch tourist attractions in their dynamic metropolises.

Whether you seek pristine national parks and natural wonders or distinctive historical sites and ancient indigenous cultures, Colombia offers a wealth of experiences for travelers to uncover. Despite its historical reputation for violence, improved security conditions make it an ideal time to visit.

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Located just an hour’s drive north of Bogota, Zipaquirá is renowned as the salt mining capital of Colombia, a distinction rooted in its historical wealth amassed from salt mining operations.

One of the travel highlights in this region is the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, a remarkable Catholic church built entirely from salt within a former mine. The Salt Cathedral is a popular travel destination, attracting many tourists. However, it is worth noting that it also serves as a place of worship for nearly 3,000 parishioners every Sunday. Attending a church service at the Salt Cathedral can provide a truly memorable travel experience.

Located in the heart of the city is a captivating cathedral, surrounded by a picturesque area called the Salt Park. This enchanting park offers visitors the opportunity to explore various landmarks nestled within the historic mines. Additionally, travelers can delve deeper into the fascinating industry by visiting the Brine Museum, where they can gain valuable insights and knowledge.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Zipaquira : Best Areas & Hotels

Ciudad Perdida ( The Lost City)

Colombia boasts vast stretches of untouched jungle, and nestled within its heart lies the captivating Ciudad Perdida. Ciudad Perdida, also referred to as the Lost City of Teyune, is a remarkable travel destination. This pre-Columbian settlement was built by the Tayrona Indians in the eighth century.

The destination was once a bustling center of vibrant culture, but now only remnants of stone terraces in circular forms can be found, some of which have been reclaimed by the lush jungle that surrounds them. The region is renowned for its extensive guided expeditions, allowing adventurers to journey from one campsite to another and immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of the wilderness.

To experience breathtaking vistas of Medellin and its picturesque environs, be sure to embark on a journey aboard the Metrocable, an expansive system of aerial gondolas that traverses the city. When exploring this destination, it’s worth noting that cable cars not only serve as a popular tourist attraction but also play a crucial role in the local public transport system.

In 2004, a remarkable transportation system was introduced in the city to assist residents in navigating its challenging topography and the numerous informal settlements that adorn its steep hills. In today’s era of travel, there are six remarkable routes awaiting exploration, offering breathtaking vistas of charming neighborhoods below and majestic mountains encompassing the surroundings.

One of the most sought-after destinations for travel on the Metrocable is the journey to Santo Domingo and beyond, leading to the breathtaking Parque Arvi. While exploring the former destination, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness breathtaking vistas of the city. On the other hand, the latter option boasts picturesque nature trails and invigorating hikes for you to relish.

Gold Museum, Bogota

The Gold Museum has long been a top tourist attraction in the capital, showcasing a remarkable collection of artworks and engaging exhibits that delve into the country’s rich history, culture, and heritage. Located at the heart of the city, this museum houses one of the world’s most significant and awe-inspiring assortments of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.

Established in 1939, the museum’s contemporary building now houses a staggering collection of over 55,000 items, including stone, bone, ceramic, and textile pieces from various pre-Hispanic civilizations. These artifacts are thoughtfully presented, shedding light on the craftsmanship, cultures, and creation myths of these ancient peoples, complemented by exhibits and video installations.

Exploring the dazzling masks, plates, and anthropomorphic figures is an extraordinary experience, with the magnificent Muisca raft standing out as one of the museum’s main attractions. Discovered in 1969, it features eleven intricately carved gold figures on a raft, and many researchers believe it relates to the legendary gold offering ceremony that gave rise to the El Dorado legend.

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Situated along Colombia’s northern coast, this park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including swamps, scrublands, and cloud forests.

Many travelers are drawn to the park primarily for its stunning beaches, nestled within deep bays and shaded by graceful coconut palms. Tayrona’s beaches are renowned as some of the most beautiful in Colombia. Birdwatchers also flock to the park to catch sight of the Andean condor, a threatened species.

The park is named after the Tayronas, an indigenous group, who have left their cultural imprints on various archaeological sites, such as Pueblito Chairama. Tayrona offers fantastic opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and observing a variety of wild animals, such as lizards and monkeys, in their natural environment.

Providencia Island

Located even farther north of San Andres and Johnny Cay, Providencia Island is a paradise that lies much closer to Nicaragua than to Colombia. It’s an ideal destination for relaxation, offering ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and scuba diving, along with cozy guest houses and local restaurants scattered throughout.

Covered in extensive tropical rainforests, this mountainous Caribbean Island is adorned with stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs. In the past, it served as an English Puritan colony and was the base of the renowned pirate Henry Morgan. Today, its remote allure draws tourists and vacationers seeking sun-filled adventures.

In addition to revealing the breathtaking beauty of its unspoiled landscapes, visitors to the island can immerse themselves in its welcoming, laid-back ambiance and partake in exciting water sports.

Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali

While exploring the vibrant landscapes of Colombia, one cannot help but be captivated by the enchanting melodies and lively rhythms of salsa resonating throughout the country. Every year, travelers flock to Cali, known as the ‘Salsa Capital of the World,’ to experience a vibrant week-long festival. During this event, visitors have the opportunity to dance the night away to the rhythm of sensational live bands and witness thrilling world-class competitions.

Since its inception in 2005, the Festival Mundial de Salsa has become a popular travel destination for thousands of dance enthusiasts, musicians, and performers. The vibrant streets and bustling nightclubs of the city come alive as they are filled with the energetic presence of these talented individuals. Throughout the week, a multitude of vibrant festivals, lively parades, and spirited gatherings unfold, with the rhythmic beats of congas and the melodic tunes of trumpets filling the air at all hours.

In addition to immersing yourself in captivating choreography and vibrant costumes, you can also indulge in exciting concerts, explore diverse food stalls, and participate in enlightening talks and workshops.

When exploring the captivating city of Bogota, one cannot miss the opportunity to visit Monserrate, a remarkable attraction that showcases the city’s elevated location. Located at the summit of Monserrate, a majestic mountain offering breathtaking views of the city, stands a magnificent 17th-century church. This sacred place attracts countless religious pilgrims from far and wide, making it a revered destination for spiritual seekers.

One of the most incredible travel experiences in Bogota is to take a ride on either the funicular train or the aerial tramway, which will transport you to the summit of Monserrate. From there, you can witness the breathtaking sight of the sun setting over the enchanting cityscape of Downtown Bogota.

Santuario de Las Lajas

Just north of the Ecuadorian border lies the Santuario de Las Lajas, one of Colombia’s most captivating religious edifices. Perched dramatically on a bridge spanning the Guaitara River, the Santuario de Las Lajas appears as though it has been plucked from a fairy tale.

This Gothic-style cathedral was constructed in the early 20th century, primarily funded by contributions from the local community. Within the cathedral, there is now a small museum for visitors to explore. Accessing the Santuario de Las Lajas is straightforward from the nearby town of Ipiales, where travelers have the option to join guided tours to visit the cathedral.

Cartagena’s Old Town

When exploring Colombia, make sure to visit Cartagena’s Old Town, a captivating maze of charming cobblestone streets and stunning colonial architecture. One of the first Spanish settlements in the Americas, its well-preserved center is a delight to explore as numerous historic churches and charming plazas are nestled within its boundaries.

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of the Caribbean Sea, this enchanting destination traces its roots back to 1533 when it was initially established. Over the years, it has blossomed into a vibrant city, renowned for its role as a prominent hub for maritime exploration in the Americas and the exportation of precious silver to Spain. Numerous impressive castles were erected to safeguard the vital coastal town, alongside an abundance of churches, convents, and monasteries like La Catedral and Iglesia de Santo Domingo.

In addition to exploring the stunning architectural wonders and immersing yourself in the relaxed ambiance of this historic district, you can savor delectable regional cuisine and experience vibrant live performances in the Getsemani area.

Valle de Cocora

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and breathtaking landscapes of the expansive Valle de Cocora, a haven for those who appreciate the wonders of nature and seek thrilling outdoor adventures. Located in the heart of Los Nevados National Natural Park, this stunning destination is conveniently situated between the vibrant cities of Bogota, Medellin, and Cali. It is nestled just a short distance away from the renowned eco-tourism hub of Salento.

Nestled in the heart of the Central Cordillera of the Andes, lies a captivating valley surrounded by picturesque foothills. This enchanting destination is renowned for its towering wax palms that adorn the vibrant green slopes. When exploring Colombia, you’ll come across the magnificent tall trees that reach heights of over sixty meters. These extraordinary trees create a surreal atmosphere, providing the perfect opportunity to capture breathtaking photos.

Travelers have the option to explore the captivating valley and its lush cloud forest on foot, either independently or by joining a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the unique wildlife and plant life found there. While exploring the picturesque valley, you can savor a delectable meal of freshly caught trout at one of the charming local restaurants. Afterward, make your way to the enchanting Acaime Natural Reserve, where you’ll be delighted by the sight of numerous adorable hummingbirds gracefully fluttering around you.

Cano Cristales

Whether it goes by the name Caño Cristales, the Liquid Rainbow, or the River of Five Colors, this natural wonder deserves a spot on every traveler’s must-visit list. Unfortunately, Caño Cristales had been off-limits to tourism since 1989 due to the presence of FARC in the surrounding areas. However, a few select tourist agencies have recently started offering meticulously planned tours to this region.

Located just outside the charming town of La Macarena, you will find the majestic river nestled within the renowned Serranía de la Macarena National Park. As you travel along the river, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant hues brought to life by the plants, rocks, sand, and algae. The river’s colors vary from mesmerizing shades of black, white, green, and yellow, to even strikingly bright red, each reflecting the unique characteristics of its surroundings.

Hiking along the banks of Caño Cristales is an adventure, but travelers can also explore attractions like the Los Cuarzos waterfall or take a refreshing swim in the natural pools formed by the river.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Panama

Q: Is Colombia safe for tourists? 

A: Colombia has made significant strides in improving safety for tourists, but it’s essential to stay informed about the current situation and follow local advice.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Tayrona National Park? 

A: The dry season from December to February is ideal for visiting Tayrona National Park to enjoy pleasant weather.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Colombia? 

A: Most tourists from North America and Europe don’t need a visa for short visits, but it’s essential to check the visa requirements for your specific nationality.

Q: Can I drink the tap water in Colombia? 

A: It’s recommended to drink bottled or purified water in Colombia to avoid any potential health issues.

Q: What’s the currency in Colombia? 

A: The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). It’s advisable to exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices for the best rates.

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FACT SHEET: President   Biden Announces New Actions to Keep Families   Together

Since his first day in office, President Biden has called on Congress to secure our border and address our broken immigration system. As Congressional Republicans have continued to put partisan politics ahead of national security – twice voting against the toughest and fairest set of reforms in decades – the President and his Administration have taken actions to secure the border, including:

• Implementing executive actions to bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum when encounters are high;
• Deploying record numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the Southern border;
• Seizing record amounts of fentanyl at our ports of entry;
• Revoking the visas of CEOs and government officials outside the U.S. who profit from migrants coming to the U.S. unlawfully; and
• Expanding efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecuting individuals who violate immigration laws.

President Biden believes that securing the border is essential. He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, and that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country. The Day One immigration reform plan that the President sent to Congress reflects both the need for a secure border and protections for the long-term undocumented. While Congress has failed to act on these reforms, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to strengthen our lawful immigration system. In addition to vigorously defending the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals) policy, the Administration has extended Affordable Care Act coverage to DACA recipients and streamlined, expanded, and instituted new reunification programs so that families can stay together while they complete the immigration process.  Still, there is more that we can do to bring peace of mind and stability to Americans living in mixed-status families as well as young people educated in this country, including Dreamers. That is why today, President Biden announced new actions for people who have been here many years to keep American families together and allow more young people to contribute to our economy.   Keeping American Families Together

• Today, President Biden is announcing that the Department of Homeland Security will take action to ensure that U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children can keep their families together.
• This new process will help certain noncitizen spouses and children apply for lawful permanent residence – status that they are already eligible for – without leaving the country.
• These actions will promote family unity and strengthen our economy, providing a significant benefit to the country and helping U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members stay together.
• In order to be eligible, noncitizens must – as of June 17, 2024 – have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, while satisfying all applicable legal requirements. On average, those who are eligible for this process have resided in the U.S. for 23 years.
• Those who are approved after DHS’s case-by-case assessment of their application will be afforded a three-year period to apply for permanent residency. They will be allowed to remain with their families in the United States and be eligible for work authorization for up to three years. This will apply to all married couples who are eligible.  
• This action will protect approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens, and approximately 50,000 noncitizen children under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

Easing the Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates, Including Dreamers

• President Obama and then-Vice President Biden established the DACA policy to allow young people who were brought here as children to come out of the shadows and contribute to our country in significant ways. Twelve years later, DACA recipients who started as high school and college students are now building successful careers and establishing families of their own.
• Today’s announcement will allow individuals, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, who have earned a degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education in the United States, and who have received an offer of employment from a U.S. employer in a field related to their degree, to more quickly receive work visas.
• Recognizing that it is in our national interest to ensure that individuals who are educated in the U.S. are able to use their skills and education to benefit our country, the Administration is taking action to facilitate the employment visa process for those who have graduated from college and have a high-skilled job offer, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers. 

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