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23 Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on May 4, 2024

One of the most rewarding countries to travel around, Colombia is a natural draw for tourists to South America. From idyllic Caribbean isles and charming colonial towns to jungle-clad mountains, lush coffee plantations and pulsating nightlife scenes; one could spend months exploring it all.

The only nation on the continent to boast both a Caribbean and Pacific coastline, Colombia is one of just seventeen megadiverse countries on the planet. While sweeping valleys, snow-capped volcanoes and, of course, the endless Amazon rainforest coat its interior, breathtaking beaches and scenic little coves line its sun-kissed shores.

Just as diverse are its cities and towns with Cartagena and Popayan being famed for their attractive old colonial centers and Cali and Barranquilla for their colourful nightlife, salsa scene and carnival. The capital Bogota and second-largest city of Medellin both also have their charms with good food, great views and top tourist attractions found throughout the vibrant metropolises.

Whether it is pristine national parks and nature spots you are after or unique historic sights and age-old indigenous cultures, there are plenty of things to do in Colombia for visitors to discover. And despite it reputation for violence, improved security conditions means now is the the time to go.

23. Colonial Churches of Popayan

Mostly known for its collection of colonial churches, the wonderful ‘white city’ of Popayán is set in the southwest, nestled away between various mountain ranges. Due to its strategic location and rich mines, countless beautiful churches have sprung up over the centuries with the historic city still acting as Colombia’s religious center today.

Dotted about its charming cobbled lanes are impressive architectural gems such as the Iglesia de San Francisco and Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption. Even older than these two large churches and their elaborately decorated interiors is Iglesia La Ermita which remarkably dates to 1546. Much simpler and smaller, its old building houses a refined altar and religious paintings.

While the art, architecture and history of the city’s churches are always a treat to take in, the best time of year to visit is Easter. This is when the Semana Santa celebrations take place and thousands of people parade through the streets starting outside Iglesia Santo Domingo; yet another of Popayán’s pretty white-washed places of worship.

22. Whitewater Rafting in San Gil

If you are after an exhilarating experience like no other, then make sure to go whitewater rafting in San Gil. At Colombia’s adventure sport capital, there are three rivers for you to navigate. Among the most thrilling things to do in Colombia, there are some peaceful parts suitable for first-timers and others only for expert adrenaline junkies.

From the center of town, numerous companies run exciting excursions out to the nearby rapids with gorgeous scenery and gasp-inducing drops guaranteed wherever you go. While rafting trips upon the Rio Fonce are much calmer yet no less scenic, those along the challenging Rio Chicamocha and Rio Suarez are sure to put your skills to the test.

As you paddle and shoot down the rivers’ rushing rapids, you’ll pass craggy canyons, verdant woods and striking rock formations on either side. With an experienced guide on hand, visitors can enjoy the Santander region’s startling beauty while bravely navigating its rivers and rapids in safety.

21. Guatape Town

Often called the most colourful town in Colombia, Guatape boasts lots of absolutely stunning street art and blocks and blocks of brightly painted buildings. On top of all its cheery colors, the popular resort town is located in a picture-perfect lakeside spot, just two hours drive east of Medellin.

A photographer’s dream, the tiny town’s traditional houses are decorated with hundreds of zocalos – magnificent murals that depict various animals, events and images of down-to-earth village life. As well as strolling about and snapping photos of its vibrant streetscapes, you can shop for handcrafted souvenirs or stop for a coffee or meal at one of its lovely little local eateries.

After having ambled about its beautiful bright colored center, you can enjoy a boat ride around the lake or clamber up to the top of La Piedra del Penol. From atop the hulking great rock and its 740 narrow, steep steps, you can bask in divine views over the reflective lake and romantic town below.

20. Valle de Cocora

Sure to delight both nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the vast Valle de Cocora is home to some of the most arresting scenery and views in the country. Part of Los Nevados National Natural Park, it lies almost equidistant from Bogota, Medellin and Cali, just outside the popular eco-tourist town of Salento.

Tucked away in the Central Cordillera of the Andes, the sweeping valley and its flanking foothills are famed for the lofty wax palms that stud their lush green slopes. Colombia’s national symbol, the tall trees sometimes tower over sixty meters into the sky with their unusual appearance making for a surreal sight and some superb photos.

Visitors can either hike around the fetching valley and its steamy cloud forest alone or take a guided tour to learn more about its distinctive fauna and flora. After enjoying a delicious fresh trout dish at one of the valley’s restaurants, you can stop by the Acaime Natural Reserve and have dozens of cute little hummingbirds flit about your head.

19. Johnny Cay

If after all the strenuous adventure activities and sightseeing you are looking for some much-needed rest and relaxation, then you can’t beat the sun-kissed sands of Johnny Cay. Nestled just north of the neighboring San Andres, the small coral islet lies in the shimmering Caribbean Sea, more than 750 kilometers from the Colombian mainland.

Also known as Cayo Sucre or Islote Sucre in Spanish, the idyllic isle and its palm tree-lined beaches are only accessible from San Andres by boat. Now protected as part of a regional park, its towering coconut groves are home to hundreds of iguanas while the reefs around it teem with marine life.

As swimming and snorkeling in its twinkling turquoise waters can be challenging things to do due to the rough waves and rocks, many spend the day sunbathing on the island’s pristine white sands. Cocktails and seafood platters can also be enjoyed at its handful of restaurants pumping out reggae music.

18. Tour a Coffee Plantation

As Colombia is famed around the world for its rich blends and roasted beans, it is well worth taking a tour around a coffee plantation if you have the chance. Dotted all about the Coffee Triangle in the northwest of the nation are numerous farms to visit that explain how the high-quality coffee is harvested, processed and packaged.

One of the largest producers of coffee on the planet, Colombia’s fertile plantations mainly lie in the mostly rural and mountainous Paisa region. From its main cities of Manizales, Pereira and Armenia, you can arrange to explore some of the innumerable estates and family-run farms that coat the area’s charming countryside.

As you tour the plantations, you’ll learn about the rich history of coffee growing in the region and see how the dark beans are harvested before sampling some strong cups of coffee. There is even a fun coffee theme park home to rollercoasters, rides and educational exhibits for you to stop by.

17. San Agustin Archaeological Park

While Colombia is blessed with lots of breathtaking scenery and nature, it also has more than its fair share of fascinating historic sites. One of the best to explore is the San Agustin Archaeological Park which is located in the eastern foothills of the Colombian Massif, not all too far from Popayan.

Unlike the city’s colonial-era churches that were erected by the Spanish, its sprawling site contains a large number of pre-Columbian religious sculptures, monuments and burial mounds. Believed to be the largest necropolis in South America, its striking stone statues of animals, humans and spirits are a treat to slowly wander around.

To gain a greater understanding of the significance of the intricately carved images, it is a good idea to get a guide with most megalithic monuments having been made between 100 and 1200 AD.

16. Tatacoa Desert

Once a lush tropical forest, the Tatacoa Desert is now home to a whole host of remarkable red rock canyons and otherworldly-looking landscapes. Due to its pitch-black night skies and other ideal atmospheric conditions, it also hosts one of the most important observatories on the continent.

Ominously called the ‘Valley of Sorrows’ by conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, the desert’s heavily-eroded landforms are painted a magnificent mix of yellows, reds, oranges and greys. As you hike or bike about, you can sometimes spy snakes, scorpions and even wildcats hidden away amidst its arid confines.

Before heading back to the nearby city of Neiva in the south-center of the nation, it is worth staying a night at a hotel in the desert. Aside from giving you more time to explore, it also means you can observe all the bright stars studding the night sky.

15. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Just one of the coastal city’s many must-see attractions , the enormous and imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas has protected Cartagena for well over four centuries. The largest fort built by the Spanish in their colonies, its hulking great walls look out over both the land and sea from atop San Lazaro Hill.

Initially completed in 1536, the already colossal fortress was slowly enlarged and strengthened over the following centuries. Big batteries and bunkers now lie alongside a grand entrance and confusing mess of tunnels that helped the soldiers fend off attacks by both pirates and other European powers.

Other than ogling its impressive architecture and enjoying fine views from its parapets, guests can learn more about the fort’s interesting past through artifacts, exhibits and video installations.

14. Piedra Del Penol

Boasting arguably one of the best views in all of Colombia is the phenomenal Piedra Del Penol, just outside Guatape in the Andes area of the country. Renowned for the steep, zigzag flight of stairs that make their way up one side of it, the gigantic granite rock is one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Colombia. At the top you’ll find spellbinding panoramas of the mountains, forests and lakes all around it.

Formed many millennia ago, the Rock of Guatape, as it is also known, rises dramatically above the stupendous scenery surrounding it. Towering 2,137 meters at its highest point, the standalone rock’s soaring summit can be reached by panting your way up 740 narrow, steep concrete steps.

Once you finally arrive at the top of the massive monolith, you can gaze out over the glinting waters of the ginormous reservoir before you. Perched atop the rock are several cafes and an observation tower, should you want a drink and rest before making your way back down.

13. Laguna de Guatavita

Head just a couple of hours’ drive northeast of Bogota and you’ll come across the lovely Laguna de Guatavita which is where the centuries-old legend of El Dorado first began. Hemmed in on all sides by verdant forests, the small, circular crater lake makes for some fantastic photos and viewing with tours teaching you all about its unique history and nature.

For years, Spanish colonizers and conquistadors had heard rumors about a sacred lake in the Eastern Ranges of the Andes and elaborate indigenous rituals involving gold. Although now thought to be a far-fetched myth, the local Muisca people did perform various celebrations out on the reflective lake and throw precious offerings into its waters.

On guided tours, you’ll learn more about their culture and hear how these initiation rites and rituals eventually formed the basis of the ‘lost city of gold’ legend we all know today.

12. Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali

As you travel around Colombia, you can hardly fail to hear the infectious rhythms and beats of salsa pouring forth wherever you go. Each year, Cali , the ‘Salsa Capital of the World’ puts on a week-long festival where you can dance the night away while listening to top-class bands and watching world-class competitions.

Established in 2005, the Festival Mundial de Salsa sees thousands of dancers, musicians and group acts pack out the city’s lively streets and nightclubs. Over the course of the week, countless classes, competitions and parties take place with rolling congas and playful trumpets heard at almost every minute of the day.

Besides enjoying all the creative choreography and colourful costumes, there are also plenty of fun concerts, food stalls and informative talks and workshops to attend.

11. Providencia Island

Even further north of San Andres and Johnny Cay is the paradisaical Providencia Island which is set much closer to Nicaragua than it is to Colombia. The perfect spot to relax and unwind, it has loads of superb sunbathing, swimming and scuba diving to enjoy with relaxing little guest houses and local restaurants dotted here and there.

Coated in vast swathes of tropical rainforest, the mountainous Caribbean island is lined by gorgeous beaches and colourful coral reefs. Once the site of an English puritan colony and the base of famed pirate Henry Morgan, its remote reaches now instead attract tourists and holidaymakers looking to enjoy some fun in the sun.

On top of basking in the astounding beauty of its untouched scenery, visitors to the isle can enjoy its friendly, laidback atmosphere and try out some exciting watersports.

10. Gold Museum, Bogota

Long one of the capital’s top tourist attractions , the Gold Museum is full of incredible artworks and interesting exhibits on the country’s rich history, culture and heritage. Situated right in the center of the city, it displays one of the world’s most important and impressive collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.

Founded back in 1939, the museum’s sleek, modern building now contains over 55,000 stone, bone, ceramic and textile pieces belonging to various pre-Hispanic peoples. Delightfully displayed, these highlight their craftsmanship, cultures and creation myths with exhibits and video installations also accompanying them.

Perusing its glittering masks, plates and anthropomorphic figures is an amazing experience with the marvelous Muisca raft being one of the museum’s main highlights. Discovered in 1969, it depicts eleven intricately carved gold figures on a raft with many researchers convinced it refers to the gold offering ceremony that spawned the legend of El Dorado.

9. Medellin Cable Car

For some of the best views imaginable of Medellin and its scenic surroundings, make sure to take a ride on the Metrocable; the city’s extensive network of aerial gondolas. While many visitors think of them as a tourist attraction, the cable cars are also an important part of its public transport system.

Due to the city’s challenging topography and all the informal settlements that coat its steep hills, the imaginative mass transit system was opened in 2004 to help locals get around. Nowadays, there are six lines to explore with phenomenal views of the barrios below and massive mountains all around.

Some of the most popular places to head on the Metrocable are up to Santo Domingo and further on to Parque Arvi. While the former offers up an interesting look into local life and, of course, provides you with spectacular views of the city, the latter has pretty nature trails and hikes for you to enjoy.

8. Cano Cristales

Whether it is known as Caño Cristales, the Liquid Rainbow or the River of Five Colors, this is one natural landmark that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Unfortunately Caño Cristales, has been closed to tourism since 1989 due to FARC presence in the surrounding areas but a few tourist agencies have recently began offering carefully crafted tours to the area.

The river is located just outside of the small town of La Macarena in the national park known as Serranía de la Macarena. Plants, rocks, sand and algae give color to the river, which can look black, white, green, yellow or bright red depending on location.

Hiking along the banks of the Caño Cristales is an adventure on its own, but travelers can also head to the waterfall of Los Cuarzos or swim in the natural pools formed by the river itself.

7. Carnaval de Barranquilla

While most people associate Carnaval with Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the Colombian city of Barranquilla is actually home to the world’s second largest Carnaval. During Carnaval de Barranquilla, the city is overrun with festivals, live music and street parades.

The festivities kick off with La Batalla de Flores, or the Battle of the Flowers, where parade floats are decorated with flowers in magnificent and colorful designs. Attendees often wear bright colors or costumes that represent a figure or a fable in Colombian heritage.

6. Santuario de Las Lajas

Just north of the border with Ecuador is the Santuario de Las Lajas, one of the most fascinating religious structures in all of Colombia. Built spectacularly on a bridge that spans the Guaitara River, the Santuario de Las Lajas looks like it is straight from a fairy tale.

The Gothic style cathedral was built in the early 20th century thanks to a financial donation from locals, and there is now a small museum located within the building. Getting to the Santuario de Las Lajas is easy from the nearby town of Ipiales, where travelers can join guided tours to the cathedral.

5. Monserrate

The Colombian city of Bogota is a unique capital because of its high elevation, something that becomes pronounced with a visit to Monserrate. At the top of the mountain of Monserrate, which overlooks the city, there is a 17th century church that serves as a mecca for religious pilgrims.

One of the best ways to experience Bogota is by riding either the funicular train or the aerial tramway to the top of Monserrate. From there, it is possible to view the sun setting over Downtown Bogota in a truly spectacular fashion.

4. Ciudad Perdida

Much of Colombia is still undeveloped jungle, and Ciudad Perdida is nestled right in the heart of that jungle. Also known as the Lost City of Teyune, Ciudad Perdida is a pre-Columbian settlement that was constructed around the eighth century by the Tayrona Indians.

The settlement was once a thriving hub of culture, but today all that remain are stone terraces in circular shapes, many of them overgrown by the surrounding jungle. The area is popular for longer guided treks, where participants can hike from camp to camp and experience the pristine, natural environment of the jungle.

3. Cartagena’s Old Town

An absolute must when in Colombia, Cartagena’s Old Town is home to a mesmerizing mess of little cobbled lanes and beautiful colonial buildings. One of the first Spanish settlements in the Americas, its well-preserved center is a delight to wander around as loads of historic churches and picturesque plazas lie within its walls.

Bordering the Caribbean Sea, the charming city was first founded in 1533 and soon flourished as an important port for both exploring the Americas and exporting silver back to Spain. Dozens of sturdy fortresses sprung up to protect the strategic coastal settlement as did countless churches, convents and cloisters such as La Catedral and Iglesia de Santo Domingo.

See also: Where to Stay in Cartagena

Besides admiring the architectural gems and taking in the laidback atmosphere in this old neighborhood, you can also enjoy some delicious local dishes and live music in the Getsemani part of town.

2. Tayrona National Park

Often said to boast one of the loveliest stretches of coastline in South America, Tayrona National Park’s gorgeous reaches can be found just half an hour’s drive from Santa Marta. Just like Colombia itself, it is incredibly biodiverse with forest-clad mountain ranges overlooking its pristine beaches, lagoons and coral reefs.

Established back in 1964, its secluded coves and palm tree-fringed sands are so picture-perfect they could easily feature on the cover of a travel magazine. While many swim and snorkel at either Cabo San Juan or La Piscina – an almost unimaginably beautiful lagoon – others hike and horseback ride about its steamy jungle and steep mountainsides.

While exploring the park, keep an eye out for some of the many macaws, monkeys and iguanas that inhabit its stunning confines. There is also an ancient archaeological site overlooking the ocean for you to check out near the top of one of its prominent peaks.

1. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Just an hour’s drive north of Bogota is Zipaquirá, a city known as the salt mining capital of Columbia. As a result of salt mining, Zipaquirá has long had a concentration of extreme wealth.

One of the things that highlights this is the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, which is a Catholic church constructed almost entirely of salt within a now defunct mine. Although this is a major tourism destination, the Salt Cathedral actually accommodates nearly 3,000 parishioners every Sunday, and attending a church service can be an unforgettable experience.

Surrounding the cathedral is an area known as the Salt Park, where visitors can see other landmarks within the mines and learn more about the industry at the Brine Museum.

Map of Things to do in Colombia

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Reader interactions.

April 27, 2018 at 10:07 pm

Valle de Cocora is a best place for having fun and tourists can enjoy some time with buddies. I really like it so much and I have spent spectacular time there. In my point of view it is a perfect destination among the adventure lover as well as nature lover. I hope you will fully enjoy there like I enjoyed.

April 5, 2018 at 6:35 am

What is the best time of the year to see the coffee plantation in Salento please ?

March 13, 2018 at 1:30 pm

Just back from 40 wonderful days in Colombia. Tayrona Park is closed every year in the month of February. The salt mine in Zipaquire holds 8000 people on easter. It is still a working salt mine. Villa de Leyva is worth visiting. Sights and activities. Some Spanish needed to all Colombia places. People are all warm, welcoming and helpful. Safe country.

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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.

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Top 10 Colombia Tourist Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss on Your Next Visit

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Key Takeaways – Top 10 Colombia Tourist Attractions

Takeaway 1: colombia is a country of incredible diversity and charm..

Colombia, my friends, is like a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. From the majestic Andes Mountains to the sparkling Caribbean coastline, this country has it all. And let me tell you, it’s not just about the stunning natural beauty. Colombia is also one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. So get ready to be amazed by a plethora of wildlife and plants that will leave you in awe. Plus, let’s not forget about its rich cultural heritage that adds an extra layer of charm to this already mesmerizing place.

Takeaway 2: There are some top attractions that shouldn’t be missed.

Okay, I have a confession to make. When I first heard about the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, I thought someone was pulling my leg. A church built underground? But trust me when I say this is something you can’t miss. It’s like stepping into another world as you explore the tunnels of a salt mine 200 meters below the surface. Now, if hiking is your thing (and even if it’s not), Mount Monserrate in Bogota should definitely be on your list. The trails may offer a slight challenge, but boy oh boy, are the views worth it! You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you gaze down at the city below. Oh, and nature lovers out there? Tayrona National Park is calling your name! Beaches? Check. Bays? Check. Coastal lagoons? Check check check! All surrounded by dense rainforest filled with adorable wildlife. Yep, consider me sold!

Takeaway 3: Colombia has so much more to offer.

Listen up folks because I’m about to spill the beans on some hidden gems in Colombia. First up, Cartagena’s Old Town. I mean, who can resist Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife? Not me, that’s for sure! It’s like stepping into a fairytale where every street corner is more charming than the last. And coffee lovers, rejoice! The Coffee Region, also known as Zona Cafetera, is a true paradise for you. Not only will you get to taste some of the best coffee beans in Colombia (and maybe even the world), but you can also embark on epic treks through breathtaking ecosystems. Talk about a win-win situation! But wait, there’s more! Medellin has totally reinvented itself and now boasts trendy bars and restaurants that will make your taste buds dance with joy. And let’s not forget their super cool transportation system that includes an impressive metro cable car system. Get ready to explore this city like never before! And finally, if sun-soaked beaches and crystal-clear waters are your idea of paradise, then look no further than San Andres & Providencia Islands. These beauties are like something out of a dream with their white sandy beaches and multicolored coral reefs just waiting to be explored. Let me just drop a few honorable mentions here: Las Lajas Sanctuary for some jaw-dropping church views, Gold Museum in Bogota for all you history buffs out there, Guatavita Lake with its legendary El Dorado story (I’m talking gold folks!), and Cocora Valley where tall wax palms will leave you feeling tiny in comparison. Oh boy oh boy…Colombia truly has it all! I don’t know about you, but after reading all this goodness, I’m already planning my next trip. So pack your bags my friends because it’s time to experience Colombia’s natural beauty and rich culture firsthand. Trust me when I say it’ll be a trip you won’t soon forget!

Our #1 Best Recommended Excursion

Our #1 best recommended excursion our pick is the day trip to guatape: boat ride and lunch included because its the most complete tour, includes lunch with a boat ride and one of the highest-rated..

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Top 10 Colombia Tourist Attractions: The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is a marvel that lies 200 meters underground, offering a unique experience of spirituality and architectural beauty. Mount Monserrate in Bogota boasts breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails, making it a favorite spot for adventure enthusiasts. Tayrona National Park, nestled along Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, is a nature lover’s paradise with pristine beaches, tropical rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Cartagena’s Old Town enchants visitors with its Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife where history meets modernity. The Coffee Region (Zona Cafetera) is not just famous for its finest coffee but also offers unparalleled trekking opportunities amidst stunning landscapes. Medellin has reinvented itself as a modern city with trendy establishments and an impressive transportation system that showcases its transformation. San Andres & Providencia Islands provide the perfect tropical escape for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts with their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Las Lajas Sanctuary, Gold Museum, Guatavita Lake, and Cocora Valley are gems that showcase the rich heritage of Colombia.

• Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali
• Medellin Flower Festival

These festivals celebrate Colombia’s vibrant culture through music, dance, and flowers.< br >< br > Guatape and Penon de Guatape mesmerize visitors with their colorful houses and the massive monolith that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. < br >< br > Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), hidden in the Sierra Nevada mountains, is an ancient marvel that takes you back in time to explore the fascinating history of Colombia.

Our #1 Best Recommended Day Trip

Our best recommended day trip our pick is the jardin private day trip: colombian coffee tour from medellin because its the most complete day trip tours, very authentic and one of the highly recommended..

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The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira: A Marvel 200 Meters Underground

Fun fact: The cathedral isn’t just for show; it’s still operational, hosting regular Sunday Mass.

Mount Monserrate: Breathtaking Views and Challenging Hiking Trails in Bogota

Second on our list of popular attractions is Mount Monserrate . Nestled in Bogota, it offers hiking enthusiasts challenging trails and mesmerizing city views from its peak. In any case, this mountain deserves a space on your travel itinerary.

Tayrona National Park: Nature’s Paradise along Colombia’s Caribbean Coast

I cannot help but recommend Tayrona National Park , one of Colombia’s most biodiverse regions. This natural preserve boasts spectacular beaches and dense rainforests teeming with wildlife – truly a paradise for nature lovers.

Cartagena’s Old Town: Spanish Colonial Architecture and Vibrant Nightlife

If you’re wondering what else makes our top 10 Colombia tourist attractions list, look no further than Cartagena’s Old Town. With its Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife scene, it’s sure to sweep you off your feet!

The Coffee Region (Zona Cafetera): Colombia’s Finest Coffee and Trekking Opportunities

And while we’re discussing Colombian hotspots, I must mention the Coffee Region or Zona Cafetera. Not only does it produce some of Colombia’s finest coffee, but it also offers captivating trekking opportunities through various mesmerizing ecosystems.

Medellin: Reinvented City with Trendy Establishments and Impressive Transportation System

Medellin’s transformation from a city once plagued by violence to a haven of trendy bars, restaurants, and an impressive transportation system is nothing short of extraordinary. It truly is one of the top 10 Colombian tourist attractions.

San Andres & Providencia Islands: Tropical Paradise for Diving and Snorkeling

You see, the San Andres & Providencia Islands are not just islands; they’re tropical paradises known for white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs – ideal for diving or snorkeling enthusiasts.

Las Lajas Sanctuary, Gold Museum, Guatavita Lake, Cocora Valley: Gems of Colombian Heritage

These are collective gems in Colombia’s crown – Las Lajas Sanctuary , Gold Museum , Guatavita Lake , and Cocora Valley. Each place embodies a different aspect of the country’s abundant natural beauty and rich cultural history. All things considered; these sites should be high on your list when visiting Colombia.

Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali and Medellin Flower Festival: Celebrating Colombia’s Vibrant Culture

Colombia’s culture truly comes alive during the Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali and Medellin Flower Festival. Now that I think about it, these festivals offer visitors a vibrant insight into Colombian culture like no other.

Guatape and Penon de Guatape: Colorful Houses and a Giant Monolith

Then there is Guatape, a small town famous for its brightly painted houses, and Penon de Guatape, a giant monolith offering breathtaking views from its top. Trust me; your Colombian adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to these places!

Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City): An Ancient Marvel Hidden in the Sierra Nevada

Remember to pack plenty of water and sunscreen – you will need it for this challenging hike!

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Our Best Top Picks for Colombia Activities

My personal take about top 10 colombia tourist attractions.

Hey there, my friend! If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, I’ve got some incredible news for you. As Esteban Parcero, your go-to travel expert for all things Colombia, I am here to unveil the top 10 tourist attractions in this enchanting country that you absolutely cannot miss! 1. The Lost City of Teyuna: This ancient archaeological site will transport you back in time as you hike through lush rainforests and uncover the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. 2. Cartagena’s Old Town: Prepare to be captivated by the colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets that exude charm at every turn. Wander through its historic walls and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. 3. Medellin’s Comuna 13: Rising from a tumultuous past, this neighborhood now showcases stunning street art that tells stories of resilience and hope. 4. Tayrona National Natural Park: Picture pristine beaches nestled between towering palm trees and turquoise waters – this national park is an absolute paradise for nature lovers. 5. Cocora Valley: Brace yourself for breathtaking panoramas as you trek through Colombia’s iconic wax palm forests – it’s like stepping into another world! 6. Bogota’s Gold Museum: A treasure trove of pre-Columbian gold artifacts awaits at this world-renowned museum – prepare to be awed by these priceless works of art. 7. Villa de Leyva: This Spanish colonial town is frozen in time, with its charming streets lined with white-washed houses – it feels like walking into a postcard! < >>8.San Andres Island: Experience a slice of Caribbean paradise on this idyllic island, with its crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures. 9. Guatape: Climb the 740 steps to the top of El Peñol, where you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding lakes and islands – an absolute must-see! 10. Amazon Rainforest: Immerse yourself in the heart of nature as you explore the world’s most biodiverse rainforest – it’s a truly unforgettable experience that will reconnect you with our planet’s wonders. So, my friend, whether you’re seeking history, adventure or natural beauty, Colombia has it all! With these unparalleled attractions awaiting your arrival, let your wanderlust guide you to this extraordinary country. Trust me when I say that Colombia will not only exceed your expectations but also leave an indelible mark on your heart. So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey filled with countless memories that will last a lifetime!

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Frequently asked questions about top 10 colombia tourist attractions, 1. what is the salt cathedral of zipaquira.

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is a Roman Catholic church built 200 meters underground within the tunnels of a salt mine. It is an awe-inspiring attraction that showcases remarkable architecture and religious significance.

2. Where can I find stunning views over Bogota?

For breathtaking views over Bogota, head to Mount Monserrate located in the city. This mountain offers slightly challenging hiking trails and rewards visitors with panoramic vistas of the bustling Colombian capital.

3. What makes Tayrona National Park special?

Tayrona National Park, situated along Colombia’s Caribbean coast near Santa Marta, is a haven for nature lovers. With its beautiful beaches, deep bays, coastal lagoons, and dense rainforest teeming with wildlife, it offers a truly immersive experience amidst unspoiled natural beauty.

4. Why should I visit Cartagena’s Old Town?

Cartagena’s Old Town is a must-see attraction renowned for its delightful Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife. Its undeniable charm will instantly captivate you, making it an essential stop on your Colombian adventure.

5. What makes the Coffee Region or Zona Cafetera popular among tourists?

The Coffee Region or Zona Cafetera is famous for producing some of Colombia’s finest coffee beans and offers excellent trekking opportunities through beautiful ecosystems. It provides a unique insight into Colombia’s rich coffee culture and stunning landscapes.

6. Which festivals should I attend in Colombia to experience its vibrant culture?

To witness Colombia’s vibrant culture, don’t miss the Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali or the annual flower festival in Medellin. These energetic celebrations showcase the country’s passion for music, dance, and colorful traditions.

Now you know Top 10 Colombia Tourist Attractions , but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like Colombia. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Colombia journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.

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Before you go…

If you’re contemplating where to vacation in colombia , you may be overwhelmed by the abundance of stunning tourist attractions throughout the country. from cartagena’s old town, a unesco world heritage site, to the surreal landscape of the cocora valley, these top 10 tourist attractions exhibit colombia’s diverse cultural and natural beauty. moreover, some of these striking locations are nestled within colombia’s best cities . medellín, which is known for its vibrant arts scene and innovative architecture, and bogotá, the country’s high-altitude capital which blends colonial-era charm with urban coolness, both offer a multitude of attractions that are sure to amaze any visitor..

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Esteban Parcero

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Can You Go to Colombia with a Felony? Find Out the Truth Here! Navigate the legal and travel restrictions for individuals with criminal records, and explore your options for visiting Colombia despite having a felony conviction.

Best Cities of Colombia: A Guide for 2024 Travelers

Explore the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Colombia with our guide to the best cities. From the scenic beauty of Cartagena to the cultural hub of Bogota, experience a captivating journey through Colombia's top destinations. Start planning your adventure now!

Medellin, Colombia: Safety Tips For Tourists & Visitors

Planning to visit Medellin, Colombia? Make sure you know the safety tips before you go! From avoiding certain areas to being aware of scams, our guide will help you stay safe while traveling. Learn the best ways to stay secure, how to avoid any danger, and the best practices when in unfamiliar situations. Get your safety tips now and have a worry-free trip to Medellin!

Best Places to Go in Colombia

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15 Most Beautiful Places In Colombia (+ Things To Do There)

Planning a trip to Colombia and wondering what are the most beautiful places to visit?

As a former Colombia resident that traveled all over, I’ve got all the expert need to know info on this South American country.

While it can be difficult to narrow down the best spots, because all of Colombia is pretty spectacular, these are 15 of the most beautiful places I visited while living here plus some of the best things to do in each of them.

🇨🇴 Overview: Most Beautiful Places In Colombia

While I lived in Colombia, the teachers union went on strike so I ended up with a lot of free time to visit nearly every inch of the country and I found lots of beautiful places.

👉 Because of my experiences and local knowledge, I can share all the most beautiful places to visit in Colombia, plus a few of the best things to do in each of them.

😍 15 Most Beautiful Places In Colombia

For those with plenty of time, explore all of Colombia to see the most beautiful places, but for those with limited time, choose a major city, 1-2 small towns, and maybe a beach to make a perfect Colombian vacation.

*️⃣ Tip : If I could only choose a couple of locations to visit in Colombia, I would personally go with Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, the Coffee Region, and San Agustín.

Salento is my favorite destination in the Coffee Region for breathtaking nature, and it’s number one for the most beautiful places in Colombia.

Top Things To See/Do In Salento:

• Cocora Valley hike (I recommend going counterclockwise)
• Finca La Montaña
• Bosque de las Palmas
• Cerro Mirador Salento

➡️ Cocora Valley Hiking Tour ➡️ Cocora Valley & Coffee Farm Tour ➡️ Salento Coffee Farm Tour from Pereira

2. Villa de Leyva

One of the most charming & beautiful colonial places to visit in Colombia is just 3 hours north of Bogotá in the town of Villa de Leyva. The town is absolutely gorgeous and it actually feels like stepping back in time a bit.

Top Things To See/Do In Villa de Leyva:

• Villa de Leyva Plaza
• Mountain Biking ( I chose this over an ATV ride & was very happy)
• Pozos Azules
• Museo El Fósil: nearly complete 20 foot Kronosaurus fossil
• Convento Santo Ecce Homo: 1620 monastery
• La Piedra de la Suerte
• Casa Terracota

3. San Agustín

San Agustín is surrounded by beautiful nature and it’s one of the best historical places to visit in Colombia with pre-Hispanic history dating back thousands of years .

Top Things To See/Do In San Agustin:

• La Chaquira
• Horseback Riding, Biking, or Hiking ( trail )
• El Purutal: statues painted with tree sap by this ancient civilization
• Archeological Park

4. Santa Rosa de Cabal

Santa Rosa is a small town in the Coffee Region that’s best known for its hot springs .

*️⃣ Tip : Public transportation is typically pretty safe in Colombia, but I recommend Ubers over taxi’s for most situations .

Top Things To See/Do In Santa Rosa:

• Nevado Santa Isabel: hike up to a glacier
• Termales Santa Rosa De Cabal/Cascada Santa Helena
• Termales San Vicente

➡️ Santa Rosa & Hot Springs Tour ➡️ Coffee & Culture Tour in Santa Rosa

Bogotá is the capital of Colombia & one of my favorite cities in the country . The weather is colder here than other parts of Colombia, but I thought it was lovely and one of the most beautiful places I visited.

Top Things To See/Do In Bogota:

• Monserrate: hike or ride up
• Museo Quinta De Bolívar: old home of Simon Bolivar
• Plaza de Bolívar
• Museo de Oro
• Catedral De Sal

➡️ Monserrate Guided Walk ➡️ Bogota City Tour ➡️ Salt Cathedral Tour

6. Filandia

Filandia is another one of the most beautiful places in the Coffee Region of Colombia , but it’s less traveled compared to Salento.

*️⃣ Tip : All of Colombia is worth visiting , but for those short on time, don’t miss the Coffee Region.

Top Thing To See/Do In Filandia:

• From Parque de Bolívar, take Calle 6 out of town & until turning left on Filandia-Correg La India
• At the structure with Mary holding Jesus, keep left going towards Selina
• Keep left again at the little covered bench (see video for visual)
• Pass by homes & farms, and eventually come to the houses on the right where the waterfalls are behind & down the mountain (they didn’t charge me, but the video mentions a 5,000 peso cost)
• There’s a trail & steps down, but be careful because some are steep & muddy
• At the bottom, find the river & the double waterfalls
• Head back up if it starts raining because it’ll be harder to get up the mountain

➡️ Filandia, Salento, & Cocora Tour

Popayán is one of the most unique and beautiful places in Colombia with it’s white walled buildings lining the entire city . It’s a very religious city with big celebrations for Semana Santa (the week of Easter).

Top Things To See/Do In Popayan:

• Centro De Popayán
• El Morro del Tulcán or Cerro Las Tres Cruces
• Puracé National Natural Park

8. Medellín

Medellin is one of the most popular places to visit in Colombia, and there are lots of cool & beautiful things to see & do here.

Top Things To See/Do In Medellin:

• La Catedral/Monasterio Santa Gertrudis La Magna: former prison of Pablo Escobar & beautiful viewpoint of the city
• Estadio Atanasio Girardot: home of Atletico Nacional
• Plaza Botero
• Jardín Botánico De Medellín
• Pueblito Paisa: replica small Colombian town
• Hacienda Napoles: old Escobar mansion turned zoo/theme park
• Santa Fe de Antioquia: colonial town with cobbled streets

➡️ Escobar Tour with La Catedral & Guatape ➡️ Guided Futbol Experience in Medellin ➡️ Comuna 13 Tour ➡️ Medellin City Tour ➡️ Santa Fe de Antioquia Tour

Pereira is known as the capital of the Coffee Region and it’s a great place to stay to easily explore the whole area (plus it’s where I lived in Colombia ).

Best Hike In Pereira:

• take a bus from the main square (Plaza Bolívar de Pereira) to get to La Florida for less than $2

10. Cartagena

Cartagena is a hot, humid, beautiful, & historic coastal city in Colombia. I recommend staying somewhere within the old city walls; it will be more expensive, but it’s the nicest, safest, & most convenient area to stay.

*️⃣ Tip : Hotels are typically better than Airbnb’s in Colombia (because various problems have occurred to us & friends here in Colombia).

Top Things To See/Do In Cartagena:

• Playa Blanca
• Castillo De San Felipe De Barajas: 17th century fortress
• Murallas de Cartagena: 17th century stone walls stretching 7 miles around the city
• Santuario De San Pedro Claver
• Monumento Torre Del Reloj

➡️ Cartagena City Tour ➡️ Playa Blanca Tour

11. Manizales

Manizales is considered one of the safest cities in the Coffee Region of Colombia with lots of cultural events and a beautiful Cathedral.

Best Thing To Do In Manizales:

• Cathedral Basilica Of Our Lady Of Rosary: gothic architecture with beautiful stain glass and a long spiral staircase

12. Guatape

Guatapé is one of the most popular places to visit in Colombia on a day trip from Medellín (it’s only about 2 hours outside the city).

Top Things To See/Do In Guatape:

• Piedra Del Peñol
• Plazoleta De Los Zócalos
• Guatape Lake Boat Ride

➡️ Guatape Tour from Medellin

13. Santa Marta

Santa Marta was the first Spanish settlement in Colombia and Tayrona National Park is one of the most popular & beautiful places to visit near the city.

Top Things To See/Do In Santa Marta:

• Tayrona National Park
• Cuidad Perdida: lost city multi-day trek
• Quinta De San Pedro Alejandrino: last home & place of death for Simon Bolivar

➡️ Santa Marta Tours

14. Armenia

One of the other bigger cities in the Coffee Region, aside from Pereira, is Armenia. It’s not quite as big, but it can still be a good base city to explore other parts of the Coffee Region.

Most Unique Thing To Do In Armenia:

• Parque del Cafe: coffee themed amusement park

➡️ Parque del Cafe Tour

Cali is a flat valley city in Colombia most famous for its Salsa music & dancing . There’s plenty to do here, but it’s also doable as a day trip from the Coffee Region.

Cali used to be a very dangerous city , and although there are still areas to avoid, with normal precautions there shouldn’t be any issues.

*️⃣ Tip : Colombian food isn’t very healthy , but bigger cities like Bogota, Medellin , or Cali will have more healthy/allergy friendly options (though even small towns have decent options for vegan eaters ).

Top Things To See/Do In Cali:

• Iglesia Ermita
• Parque de Los Gatos
• Monumento Cristo Rey: 85 foot tall Christ Monument (like the one in Brazil)
• Plazoleta Jairo Varela & Museum

➡️ Cali Tours

🔁 Wrap Up: Most Beautiful Places In Colombia

I was completely surprised by the natural beauty of Colombia, and while there are tons of places that are worth visiting around the country, these were 15 of the most beautiful that I visited, and I especially recommend not missing the Coffee Region !

Haley is the owner and author of Fernweh Foreigner, a travel blog that helps users explore the world while eating healthy & staying active. When she isn't writing blog posts about her favorite destinations, she is out playing or watching soccer, getting inspired by books & film, or cooking (because there is so much cooking with a clean lifestyle!)

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The 5 Best Places to Visit in Colombia: South America’s Best Kept Secrets

Not all that long ago Colombia probably wasn’t top of your list of go-to travel destinations thanks to the conflict between guerrilla groups and the Colombian government and the infamous drug cartels. But the last decade has seen a massive turnaround and now Colombia is absolutely one of the very best places to visit in South America. The best thing about traveling to Colombia? The masses haven’t really discovered it yet, so you can go and travel safely and see the best places to visit in Colombia without having to shuffle along in crowds of other tourists.

We spent six weeks in Colombia and found so much incredible diversity in terms of things to do and see that we constantly found ourselves saying “I guess we’ll have to come back for that.”

Sure, there are definitely pockets of the country (Cartagena, looking at you) that are chock full of tourists and cruise ship passengers, but for the most part we found fewer tourists than we expected.

Colombia’s tourist numbers are certainly on the rise – the number of foreign visitors has more than doubled since 2010 – making now the perfect time to plan a trip to Colombia. 

Heading to Colombia? Here are some other posts you won’t want to miss.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, I would never recommend something to you that I don’t stand behind 100%.

The Best Places to Visit in Colombia

To help you plan your trip, here is my pick of the five best places to visit in Colombia when you visit this incredible country. 

Obviously this is not a complete list of all the amazing places in Colombia. 

Think of this as my picks for five places that should be on EVERY Colombia itinerary. 

Parque Tayrona: Golden Beaches and Blue-Green Water

If you are looking for where to go in Colombia, the Tayrona National Park, perched on the Caribbean on the northern coast, is one of South America’s most spectacular areas. Here you’ll find some of the best golden beaches in South America, complete with swaying palm trees and intensely blue waters. It is a must-see for your Colombia itinerary.

Want to experience the area to the fullest? Hike in on a forest trail and spend one to three nights in one of the tents or hammocks near the beaches, visiting the diverse habitats during the day.

Must-see in Parque Tayrona:

• La Piscinita is an amazing place to snorkel and dive in the clear water with all the brightly colored fish.
• Cabo San Juan is probably the most famous beach in the park – it’s so breath-taking you’ll never want to leave!
• Punta Piedra & Playa Nudista : these beaches are a short walk from Cabo San Juan, and much quieter. Feel free to strip down to your birthday suit and reconnect with nature – but many don’t so visit whether or not you’re interested in stripping down.
• Fresh Food! The fresh food available here is the best reason to come beside the views, so be sure to try the seafood, coconuts, and fruit juices you’ll see from vendors along the walking path from El Zaino to the beaches. Don’t miss the fresh-squeezed orange juice!

There are plenty of other things to do and see, like trail riding on horseback, hiking and wildlife watching. Don’t forget that the park is closed periodically throughout the year for conservation. And you do need a national park ticket to gain entry, which you can buy on the day of, but I would get there early, 30-45 minutes before they open the gates.

How to Get to Parque Tayrona:

To get to Parque Tayrona, you’ll have to get to the main bus station in Santa Marta at Mercado Público de Santa Marta. The bus we took was headed to Palomino, and left from the corner of Calle 11 and Carrera 9 ( here ). Tell the driver where you want to get off, whether its a hostel or the El Zaino entrance to the park.

Medellín : Colombia’s Most Interesting City

Despite its turbulent past, Medellin is probably the most interesting city in Colombia. Innovative and forward-thinking, the city has reinvented itself with art, tourism and the new cable car network making it extremely popular with visitors from all over the world. It is truly one of the best places to visit in Colombia. 

Must-see in Medellin:

• Parque Lleras – this park is full of people 24/7; musicians, food stalls, and people having fun and meeting friends. If you love people watching, this is a great place to give your feet a break! 
• The Jardin Botanico – Medellín’s botanical garden is an oasis of peace and hosts concerts and festivals regularly, has thousands of flowers, and over 130 species of birds.
• See a soccer game – Soccer is big in Colombia and Medellín is home to two major teams, Atletico Nacional and Independiente Medellín, so try to see a game while you’re there to experience the excitement. Here’s a tour with a local soccer fan that we did – it includes transportation to and from the game from El Poblado, pre-game drinks, and great seats.
• Hit the markets! The huge Minorista commercial market is worth a visit (here’s a guided tour where you’ll taste ALL the fruits ) and Mercado del Rio is a foodies heaven . Seriously. If you like good food, you have to visit the Mercado del Rio. 
• Take a free walking tour courtesy of Real City Tours and find out how Medellín has been transformed from the most dangerous to the most popular city in Colombia. I recommend you avoid the Pablo Escobar tours; he was not a popular man and the locals aren’t crazy about people profiting from his criminality.

Jardin: A Colonial Paradise in the Andes

It’s not easy to get to as it’s in the Andes, but if you have time, you have to visit the colonial town of Jardin. When people asked me what my favorite part of Colombia was, I invariably gravitated towards Jardin.

It’s absolutely one of the best places to travel in Colombia, and it is still very much off the beaten path for the most part. This pueblo is, for those in the know, many people’s favorite destination and is ridiculously pretty.

Must-see in Jardin: 

• Sight-see in the main square under the shoulders of the magnificent Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, their incredible cathedral. It’s a great spot for people watching. 
• Hike up the valley to one of THE best cafes in Colombia, Cafe Jardin for a refreshing drink. 
• Eat vegetarian – Jardin is incredibly vegetarian-friendly and serves vegetarian dishes as you’ve never seen them before. If you’re someone who chooses their meal meat-first, you have to step outside your comfort zone and try some! Don’t miss Roots , one of the best places to eat in Jardin.

How to get to Jardin

This was quite a journey from Manizales, which is where we were coming from, or Salento. 

From Manizales, take the bus from the main bus station to Riosucio, and from there take a chiva up the dirt road to Jardin. It’s a LONG journey, despite what the bus company might tell you. Plan for 5-6 hours. 

Here’s a guide that tells you everything you need to know about getting to Jardin from Salento. 

Salento : Polished Gem of Colombia’s Coffee Axis 

If you’re a coffee aficionado and are wondering where to go in Colombia to experience the best of their coffee, Salento should be on your list. Salento has beautiful architecture and a deep coffee connection – it’s a part of Colombia’s Coffee Zone, the Eje Cafetero.

Of course, there are numerous coffee tours and I’d recommend Finca El Ocaso and Las Acacias as the best of the bunch. 

Must-see in Salento:

• Eat trout! It’s the specialty of the town and a feature dish of every restaurant.
• Hike the Valle do Cocora , it’s a great way to see the lush valleys and clear streams of the Andes and it lives up to its reputation as the best hike in Colombia. Don’t forget the detour to the hummingbird reserve, Casa de los Colibris, to see these beautiful creatures up close.
• Stroll the Plaza Bolivar and Calle Real in the center of Salento and experience the restaurants, souvenir shops and bars where you can sit and watch the world go by. It is just so colorful and picturesque, Salento should be near the top of anyone’s “Where to go in Colombia” list.

Bogota: Colombia’s Most Urban and Cosmopolitan Metropolis

You, of course, have to see the capital city of Colombia. It’s HUGE, and with that comes the hustle and bustle of any big city, along with the traffic.

Bogota is one of the best places to visit in Colombia, and there is seriously so much to do.

Yes, it gets some mixed reviews, so it’s worth doing your research before you go to ensure you stick to the best parts, but it’s well worth spending a few days in Bogota to do some urban exploration. 

Must-see in Bogota

• Monserrate is over 10,000 feet above sea level so it’s a bit of a hike but is the best place from which to appreciate the vastness of the city. If you don’t want to walk there is a funicular railway and cable car to speed you to the top where you will find a church, restaurant and shop.
• Explore Chapinero – Quinta Camacho is a glitzy area of Bogota and is the place for fine-dining and where I had my best gluten-free meal – at Abasto. Traveling gluten free? Don’t miss my guide to gluten free Bogota .
• A trip to the famous Salt Cathedral , Columbia’s most famous church, is a must. Situated just outside the nearby city of Zipaquira, the Roman Catholic Salt Cathedral was built 600 feet underground in a disused salt mine and is an architectural wonder, another on the “where to go in Columbia” bucket list.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Colombia

With these five places, I am just scratching the surface of the best places to explore in this wonderful country.

From the mountains of the Andes down to the coast, and from unspoiled wilderness to thriving cities, Colombia offers unparalleled variety to the traveler looking for a little something different.

With six weeks, we STILL ran out of time to do and see everything we wanted to, and we’re looking forward to making a return trip to explore a little more off the beaten path – into the Amazon and the Pacific Coast.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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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.

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Discover the Hidden Gems: Top 30 Attractions and Landmarks in Colombia

Are you ready to embark on an adventure through the vibrant and diverse country of Colombia? From sprawling cities to breathtaking natural wonders, this South American gem is a treasure trove of hidden attractions and landmarks just waiting to be explored.

Discover the Hidden Gems: Top 30 Attractions and Landmarks in Colombia was originially published on allaboutcolombia.com

Join us as we uncover the top 30 must-see destinations that will leave you captivated by Colombia’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Get ready for a journey like no other as we delve into the depths of this enchanting country – it’s time to discover Colombia’s hidden gems!

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why Colombia is a must-visit destination

But what makes Colombia stand out among other destinations? What are the hidden gems and top attractions that make this country worth visiting? In this section of our blog article, we will delve into why Colombia should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

1. Rich Cultural Heritage

One of the main reasons why Colombia is a must-visit destination is its rich cultural heritage. The country has a long and complex history influenced by various indigenous communities, Spanish colonization, and African traditions . This unique blend of cultures can be seen in every aspect of Colombian life – from its colorful festivals and cuisine to its music and art.

For those interested in learning about different cultures, Colombia offers a fascinating opportunity to immerse yourself in its diverse traditions. From exploring ancient ruins such as the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) to experiencing traditional dances like Cumbia or Salsa, there is so much to discover and appreciate about Colombian culture.

2. Breathtaking Landscapes

Colombia boasts stunning natural landscapes that cater to all types of travelers. The country’s geography includes everything from lush rainforests to snow-capped Andean mountains and pristine beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts .

One of the most famous natural attractions in Colombia is the Cocora Valley, home to the world’s tallest palm trees. It is a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and breathtaking views. Other must-visit destinations for nature enthusiasts include Tayrona National Park , Guatapé, and Caño Cristales – also known as the “River of Five Colors.

3. Delicious Cuisine

Some must-try dishes include arepas (corn cakes), bandeja paisa (a traditional platter with beans, rice, meat, plantains, and more), and empanadas (fried or baked pastries filled with meat or cheese). For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on trying Colombian desserts such as tres leches cake or postre de natas.

4. Affordable Travel

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in South America and around the world, Colombia offers relatively affordable travel options for visitors. From accommodations to dining out and transportation costs, you can experience the country’s best without breaking the bank.

Moreover, Colombia’s currency (Colombian pesos) has been steadily decreasing in value against major currencies such as the US dollar and euro, making it even more budget-friendly for international travelers.

5. Warm and Welcoming People

Last but certainly not least, Colombians are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. They take pride in their country and love sharing its beauty with visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re chatting with locals at a café or seeking recommendations from your tour guide, you’ll find that Colombians are friendly, helpful, and eager to show you the best of their country.

Historical Landmarks

Colombia is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the Caribbean coast to the Andean mountains, Colombia boasts a diverse landscape that has been shaped by its past. The country’s long and complex history is reflected in its many historical landmarks , each with its own unique story to tell. In this section, we will explore some of the top historical landmarks in Colombia that are not only significant for their architectural value but also for their cultural and historical importance.

1. La Candelaria, Bogotá

Located in the heart of Bogotá’s historic center, La Candelaria is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. This charming neighborhood is home to several iconic landmarks such as Bolivar Square, which features a statue of Simon Bolivar, a symbol of Colombian independence. Other notable sites include the neoclassical Palacio de Nariño (Nariño Palace), which serves as the official residence of Colombia’s president, and Casa de Nariño (House of Nariño), where important government meetings take place.

2. Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)

Ciudad Perdida is an ancient archaeological site believed to have been built by indigenous tribes around 800 AD. Located deep within the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, it was rediscovered in 1972 after being hidden for centuries by dense jungle vegetation. The site consists of more than 250 terraces carved into the mountainside and stone pathways that lead to circular plazas. It is considered one of the most important pre-Columbian sites in South America.

3. San Agustín Archaeological Park

Located in the Andean region of Colombia, the San Agustín Archaeological Park is home to over 500 ancient statues and tombs dating back to the 1st century AD. These mysterious stone figures, known as the San Agustín culture, are believed to represent deities and animals and offer insight into the beliefs and practices of this ancient civilization.

4. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

Built in the 17th century, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a fortress located in Cartagena that played an important role in protecting the city from invasions by pirates and other European powers. The massive structure features a complex system of tunnels, underground galleries, and cannons that provide a glimpse into Colombia’s colonial past.

5. Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)

The Gold Museum in Bogotá houses one of the largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts in the world. With over 55,000 pieces on display, visitors can learn about the techniques used by indigenous cultures to create intricate gold objects that held great spiritual and cultural significance.

6. Rosario Islands

Located off the coast of Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are an archipelago of 27 coral islands that have been declared a national park. The islands are home to some of the best-preserved coral reefs in the Caribbean and offer visitors a chance to explore beautiful beaches , crystal clear waters, and diverse marine life.

7. Hacienda Nápoles

Hacienda Nápoles is a sprawling estate in Puerto Triunfo that was once owned by infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar. Today, it has been converted into a theme park with safari rides, water parks, and exotic animal exhibits. Though controversial, the site offers a glimpse into Colombia’s troubled past and attracts many curious tourists.

8. Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral)

Located just outside Bogotá in Zipaquirá, the Salt Cathedral is an underground church carved within a salt mine 200 meters below ground level. The cathedral features impressive sculptures and crosses made from salt crystals and is considered one of Colombia’s most unique architectural wonders.

9. Tierradentro Archaeological Park

Tierradentro Archaeological Park is home to several ancient tombs and burial sites of pre-C olumbian cultures. The tombs, which are carved into the mountainside, feature intricate geometric designs and colorful frescoes that offer a glimpse into the beliefs and rituals of these ancient civilizations.

10. Medellín Botanical Garden

The Medellín Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the bustling city of Medellín. It features over 4,500 species of plants and flowers from Colombia and around the world, as well as a butterfly house, an orchid exhibit, and several themed gardens. The garden also has a strong focus on environmental education and conservation.

Cartagena Walled City

Today, the walled city of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia. It is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, with its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets , and lively atmosphere.

Here are some must-visit attractions within the walled city:

1 – Plaza de los Coches (Carriage Square)

The Plaza de los Coches is the main entrance to the walled city, named after the carriages that used to enter through here during colonial times. This bustling square is lined with restaurants, street vendors selling souvenirs and local delicacies like empanadas and arepas, as well as horse-drawn carriages waiting to take tourists around the city.

2 – Las Bóvedas (The Vaults)

Located at the western end of the walled city, Las Bóvedas were originally built as dungeons but later served as storage for military supplies. Today, these 23 vaults have been transformed into artisanal shops selling handicrafts such as jewelry, paintings, and clothing – making it an ideal spot for souvenir shopping.

3 – San Pedro Claver Square

This picturesque square is named after the Spanish priest and missionary, Saint Peter Claver, who devoted his life to helping African slaves brought to Cartagena. The square is home to a beautiful church dedicated to the saint, as well as a statue honoring him.

4 – Cartagena Cathedral

Located in Plaza de la Catedral, this stunning cathedral was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the most important religious landmarks in Colombia. Its striking yellow and white facade is a popular spot for taking photos, and visitors can also go inside to admire its grand interior.

5 – Santo Domingo Square

This charming square is surrounded by colorful buildings and lined with cafes and restaurants – making it a popular spot for people-watching and enjoying a cup of Colombian coffee. It is also home to the iconic “Palenqueras,” local women dressed in vibrant traditional outfits selling fruits on their heads.

6 – Palacio de la Inquisición (Palace of the Inquisition)

Now a museum, this palace was once used as a headquarters for the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena during colonial times. Visitors can learn about the dark history of this period through the various exhibits and displays, including torture devices used during interrogations.

7 – Cartagena Gold Museum

Located in a beautiful colonial mansion, this museum houses an impressive collection of gold artifacts from pre-Columbian cultures in Colombia. Visitors can learn about the significance of gold in these cultures and see intricate designs and craftsmanship on display.

8 – City Walls

No visit to the walled city is complete without a walk along its historic walls, which were built to protect the city from pirate attacks. The walls stretch for over 11 kilometers and provide stunning views of the city’s architecture and the Caribbean Sea.

Aside from these attractions, there are also numerous boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars within the walled city that offer a taste of Cartagena’s vibrant culture and cuisine. With its rich history and lively atmosphere, it’s no wonder that Cartagena Walled City is considered one of the top destinations in Colombia.

San Felipe de Barajas Castle

Located in the historic city of Cartagena, Colombia, the San Felipe de Barajas Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. It is a testament to Colombia’s rich history and cultural heritage, serving as a remnant of Spanish colonial rule.

One of the main reasons for building this fortress was to protect Cartagena from attacks by rival European powers such as England and France . The strategic location on top of a hill provided an advantage for defending against potential invaders.

The castle underwent several expansions and modifications over the years, with each addition adding to its imposing structure. Today, it stands as one of the most well-preserved examples of military architecture in South America.

Visitors can explore various sections within the castle walls, including tunnels, barracks, and lookout points. The intricate maze-like design showcases advanced engineering techniques used during that time period.

As you walk along its walls and corridors, you can almost feel transported back in time to when soldiers were stationed here protecting their city from foreign threats. The sheer size and complexity of this fortress are enough to leave anyone in awe.

Aside from its historical significance, San Felipe de Barajas Castle also offers breathtaking views of Cartag ena and its surrounding areas. The panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea, the city skyline, and nearby neighborhoods are truly spectacular.

In 1984, San Felipe de Barajas Castle was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the historic walled city of Cartagena. It continues to attract thousands of visitors every year who come to marvel at its grandeur and learn about Colombia’s past.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just looking for stunning views, a visit to San Felipe de Barajas Castle is a must when in Cartagena. It is a remarkable landmark that showcases Colombia’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Gold Museum in Bogota

Colombia’s capital city, Bogota, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers visitors a variety of attractions to explore. One of the must-visit places in Bogota is the Gold Museum, also known as Museo del Oro in Spanish. This renowned museum showcases an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts, making it a top attraction for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

As you enter the museum’s grand entrance hall adorned with beautiful murals depicting indigenous life, you will be transported into a world of glittering gold objects carefully crafted by skilled artisans centuries ago. The museum has three floors dedicated to different themes – The Offering Room, The People Room, and The Cosmos Room.

The Offering Room displays intricate jewelry items made from gold such as nose rings, pendants, earrings and more that were used by indigenous leaders during rituals or ceremonies. One notable piece on display is the Muisca Raft which depicts an ancient ritual where golden offerings were thrown into Lake Guatavita as part of their religious beliefs.

The People Room showcases the daily lives and customs of various indigenous groups through gold objects such as tools, weapons, musical instruments, and more. The Cosmos Room offers a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs of these cultures through various objects that represent their connection to nature and the universe.

Apart from admiring the stunning artifacts, visitors can also learn about the process of gold mining and how it played a significant role in pre-Hispanic societies. The museum offers guided tours in English and Spanish, as well as audio guides in nine different languages.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Gold Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on different aspects of Colombian culture and history. The museum also has an on-site shop where you can purchase replicas of some of the artifacts on display.

Visiting the Gold Museum is an enriching experience that allows you to learn about Colombia’s ancient civilizations and their use of gold in their customs and rituals. It is an essential stop for anyone interested in understanding Colombia’s cultural heritage and its significance today.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with extended hours on Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission fees are affordable at around $2 USD for adults and $1 USD for students. Free admission is offered on Sundays for all visitors.

In conclusion, the Gold Museum in Bogota is a must-visit attraction that offers a unique and informative experience for all ages. Its impressive collection of gold artifacts and its educational value make it a top destination in the city. So, if you are planning a trip to Bogota, be sure to add the Gold Museum to your itinerary.

Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)

Located deep in the Colombian jungle, Ciudad Perdida, also known as the Lost City, is one of Colombia’s most fascinating and mysterious attractions. This ancient city was built by the Tayrona people between the 11th and 14th centuries, making it older than Machu Picchu in Peru .

The journey to reach Ciudad Perdida is an adventure in itself. It involves a challenging four to six-day trek through dense rainforests, crossing rivers and climbing steep mountain paths. This trek is not for the faint-hearted but offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape along with a chance to immerse yourself in nature.

Exploring this lost city gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of its inhabitants and their advanced engineering techniques. The intricate stone carvings and staircases are evidence of their architectural skills that have stood the test of time.

One of the most remarkable features of Ciudad Perdida is its location on top of a mountain ridge overlooking three valleys. The panoramic view from this vantage point is awe-inspiring and adds to the overall mystical atmosphere.

To fully appreciate this ancient city, it’s recommended to hire a local guide who can share the history and significance of each structure. Camping at the site is also an option, allowing visitors to spend more time soaking in the cultural and natural beauty of Ciudad Perdida.

Overall, visiting Ciudad Perdida provides a unique and unforgettable experience that combines adventure, history, and nature all in one.

Natural Wonders:

Colombia is a country full of diverse and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From towering mountains to lush rainforests, Colombia’s stunning landscapes are a must-see for any traveler. In this section, we will explore the top natural wonders that Colombia has to offer.

1. The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon rainforest covers approximately 35% of Colombia’s territory, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. This vast jungle is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on earth. Visitors can explore the Amazon by taking a guided tour or staying at one of the eco-lodges within the forest.

2. Tayrona National Park

Located on the Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. This protected area is home to beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and dense rainforests teeming with wildlife. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, go snorkeling or scuba diving in its pristine waters or simply relax on its picturesque beaches.

3. Caño Cristales

Known as “the river of five colors,” Caño Cristales is a natural wonder that needs to be seen to be believed. Located in Serranía de la Macarena National Park, this unique river boasts vibrant shades of red, blue, green, yellow and black during certain times of the year due to a special type of algae that grows on its bed . Visitors can take a guided tour to see this stunning natural phenomenon up close.

4. Los Nevados National Natural Park

Los Nevados National Natural Park is a must-visit for those looking to experience Colombia’s mountainous landscapes. This park, located in the central Andes, is home to several snow-capped volcanoes, glacial lakes, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails or take a guided tour to see its breathtaking landscapes.

5. Chicamocha Canyo

Located in the department of Santander, Chicamocha Canyon is one of the most impressive natural wonders in Colombia. This massive canyon stretches for over 200 kilometers and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take a cable car ride over the canyon or go paragliding to get an aerial view of this majestic landscape.

6. The Guajira Peninsula

The Guajira Peninsula, located in northern Colombia, is a remote and untouched region that offers some of the country’s most unique natural landscapes. This desert-like peninsula is home to stunning beaches, dunes, and salt flats that are unlike anything else in Colombia. Visitors can also interact with indigenous communities who still live traditional lifestyles in this area.

7. Cocora Valley

These are just some of the many natural wonders that Colombia has to offer. With its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, this country is truly a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you prefer hiking through rainforests, relaxing on pristine beaches, or admiring majestic mountains, there is something for everyone in Colombia’s natural wonders.

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located on the northern coast of Colombia, this stunning national park covers an area of 150 square kilometers and offers a diverse range of landscapes, from pristine beaches to dense rainforests.

One of the main draws of Tayrona National Park is its breathtaking coastline. The park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, each with its own unique charm. From the idyllic crystal-clear waters of Playa Cristal to the secluded and untouched beauty of Cabo San Juan beach, there is a beach for every type of traveler. These beaches are also surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for your beach vacation.

For those interested in learning about indigenous cultures, Tayrona National Park has significant importance as it was once inhabited by the indigenous people called the Tayrona tribe. The park still holds many ruins that were left behind by these ancient inhabitants, providing visitors with a glimpse into their way of life.

To fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and culture of Tay rona National Park, it is recommended to stay overnight in one of the eco-friendly lodges or campsites within the park. This allows you to wake up surrounded by nature and have more time to explore all that the park has to offer.

Overall, Tayrona National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure in Colombia. Its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history make it a truly unique and special place.

Cocora Valley and Salento

Colombia is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the Cocora Valley and Salento are two prime examples of this. Located in the central region of Quindío, these two destinations offer breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a glimpse into traditional Colombian culture.

The Cocora Valley is a must-visit for any nature lover. It is home to the famous wax palm trees, which can grow up to 60 meters tall, making them the tallest palm trees in the world. These towering trees create a picturesque setting against the backdrop of green mountains and blue skies. Visitors can take a hike through the valley to get up close to these impressive trees or opt for a horseback ride for a more leisurely experience.

After soaking in the natural beauty of Cocora Valley, head over to Salento town for some cultural immersion. This charming colonial town is known for its colorful architecture and traditional coffee culture. Take a stroll down Calle Real (Main Street) lined with brightly painted houses adorned with flower gardens. You’ll also find many local artisan shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

No visit to Salento is complete without trying their famous Colombian coffee. Head to one of the many cafés in town to sample a freshly brewed cup and learn about the coffee-making process. You can even take a tour of a nearby coffee farm to see how the beans are grown and harvested.

For adventure seekers, Salento also offers activities such as zip-lining, hiking, and river rafting . Admire the stunning views from above as you zip through the lush green forests, or challenge yourself with a hike up to the top of Cerro Morrogacho for panoramic views of the valley.

Overall, Cocora Valley and Salento offer a perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature or an adventure-filled getaway, these two destinations have something for everyone.

Chicamocha Canyon National Park

Located in the Santander department of Colombia, Chicamocha Canyon National Park is a stunning natural attraction that offers visitors breathtaking views and exciting outdoor activities. It is considered one of the hidden gems of Colombia, as it is not as well-known as other popular destinations in the country. However, those who make the journey to this national park will be rewarded with a unique and unforgettable experience.

One of the best ways to take in the beauty of Chicamocha Canyon National Park is by riding on the cable car that runs through it. This cable car system covers a distance of 6.3 kilometers from one end of the canyon to another and takes approximately 20 minutes each way. Along the way, you will have panoramic views of both sides of the canyon and see its diverse flora and fauna.

For those looking for more adventure, there are plenty of activities available within the park such as paragliding or zip-lining over the canyon for an adrenaline rush like no other. Or if you prefer something more low-key but still adventurous, you can go on horseback rides through trails that wind around the canyon.

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Chicamocha Canyon National Park, there are also camping and hiking options available. The park has designated campsites and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore more of the park’s hidden corners and discover its diverse wildlife.

Aside from its stunning landscape, Chicamocha Canyon National Park is also rich in culture and history. There are several indigenous communities living within the park, and visitors can learn about their way of life and traditions through guided tours.

To get to Chicamocha Canyon National Park, you can take a bus or rent a car from nearby cities like Bucaramanga or San Gil. Entrance fees vary depending on the activities you want to do, but it is generally affordable for both locals and tourists.

In conclusion, Chicamocha Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a unique experience in Colombia. With its stunning views, exciting activities, and cultural immersion opportunities, it is sure to be a highlight of any trip to this beautiful country.

Caño Cristales River

Located in the heart of the Serranía de la Macarena National Park, Caño Cristales River is a natural wonder that has captivated visitors from all around the world. Also known as “The River of Five Colors” or “The Liquid Rainbow”, this magical river is truly a hidden gem of Colombia and a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

1. Origins and Formation

Caño Cristales River is situated in the Meta department of Colombia and stretches for approximately 100 kilometers, originating from the Andean foothills. The river gets its unique colors from an aquatic plant called Macarenia clavigera, which blooms between the months of July to November, giving life to vibrant hues of red, yellow, blue, green, and black.

2. Accessible only during certain months

One thing that makes Caño Cristales River even more special is that it can only be visited during specific months of the year. Due to conservation efforts and to protect its fragile ecosystem, access to the river is limited and regulated by authorities. The best time to visit Caño Cristales is usually from July to November when water levels are just right for the plants to bloom.

3. A Paradise for Biodiversity

The Serranía de la Macarena National Park where Caño Cristales is located also boasts an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Here you can find over 400 species of birds including toucans, parrots, eagles, and even endangered species like the harpy eagle and the Andean condor. The park is also home to a variety of mammal species such as jaguars, pumas, tapirs, and monkeys.

4. Natural Pools and Waterfalls

Visitors can take guided tours along the river to discover its many natural wonders, including pools and waterfalls. One of the most iconic spots in Caño Cristales is the “Cascada de los Cuarzos” or “Waterfall of Quartz”, where crystal-clear waters cascade over layers of colorful rocks, creating a mesmerizing sight.

5. Activities for All

Caño Cristales River is a true gem of Colombia that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for nature lovers. With its vibrant colors, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna, it’s no wonder this hidden paradise has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Vibrant Cities

Colombia is a country known for its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. One of the most fascinating aspects of this South American nation is its vibrant cities. From bustling metropolises to charming colonial towns, Colombia’s urban areas are full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

The capital city of Colombia, Bogotá, is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the vibrant energy of Colombian cities. Located in the Andean region, Bogotá offers a unique blend of modernity and history. The city’s cultural scene is thriving with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters showcasing the country’s rich heritage.

One of the top attractions in Bogotá is the historic La Candelaria neighborhood. This charming area boasts colorful colonial buildings adorned with intricate balconies and street art. It also houses popular landmarks such as Plaza Bolívar, Gold Museum, and Monserrate Hill – offering breathtaking views of the city.

For a taste of local life in Bogotá, head to Usaquén – a trendy district known for its Sunday flea market selling handmade crafts and delicious street food. The city also has a booming culinary scene featuring traditional dishes like bandeja paisa (a hearty platter with beans, rice, meat), as well as international cuisine options.

Once infamous for being one of the most dangerous cities in the world due to drug cartels’ presence, Medellín has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Today, it is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate and lively atmosphere.

Medellín’s most iconic attraction is the Comuna 13 neighborhood, once considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Colombia. Now, it is a colorful and vibrant area adorned with street art and home to one of the city’s best escalator systems, connecting the community to the rest of Medellín.

The city also boasts a thriving nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes. For a taste of traditional Colombian culture, visit Plaza Botero – a public square featuring sculptures by renowned artist Fernando Botero.

3 Cartagena

Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a charming colonial town steeped in history. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features well-preserved architecture from the Spanish colonial era.

Wandering through the cobbled streets of Cartagena’s old town feels like stepping back in time. The brightly colored buildings adorned with bougainvillea flowers create a picturesque setting perfect for photo opportunities. The city also has several beautiful beaches nearby, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers .

Aside from its beauty, Cartagena is also known for its lively street performers, music, and dance. The city’s annual carnival, held in January or February, is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the vibrant culture of Colombia.

Aside from dancing, Cali also offers visitors a taste of traditional Colombian cuisine, with dishes like sancocho (a hearty soup) and empanadas (stuffed pastries) being local favorites. The city also has a thriving art scene, with several galleries showcasing works by local artists.

Cali’s surrounding landscapes are also worth exploring, with nearby national parks offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. The city’s warm climate and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Colombian culture.

There are countless reasons why Colombia is a must-visit destination – from its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes to its delicious cuisine and affordable travel options. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that this South American gem is quickly becoming a top spot on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to experience all that Colombia has to offer!

12 Unique Places to Visit in Colombia

Posted on October 3, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on October 4, 2023

Planning a trip to Colombia? Travelers share below their favorite places in Colombia, how to get there, useful tips to know before visiting, and what to do once there.

Discover some of the most unique places to visit in Colombia during your trip. From natural wonders to picturesque towns, you’ll find a wide array of experiences, landscapes, and activities throughout the country.

Get ready as you embark on a journey through some of Colombia’s best destinations that you don’t want to miss!

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Caño Cristales

By Giorgy of G-Extreme Travel

Ready to visit one of the most unique places in Colombia? Let’s take a wild ride down to Caño Cristales, or as most people like to call it, the “Rainbow River” .

This place isn’t just unique… it’s a dreamy palette of nature’s finest colors. Imagine swimming in a river that looks like it was painted by Picasso himself!

From June to November, this waterway transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of reds, blues, yellows, oranges, and even greens . It’s a special kind of river weed that changes color when it’s just the right temperature.

Unfortunately, during the first half of the year, the park is closed for recovery ( also because this extraordinary event is not occurring ). Mother Nature needs her beauty sleep too. But don’t worry, once she wakes up, she puts on the most vibrant show you’ve ever seen.

Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your visit carefully!

How would you be able to visit this unique place in Colombia? The easiest way is to fly to La Macarena , and then join a guided tour from there . They’ll take care of all the nitty-gritty details and guide you through the stunning landscapes this area has to offer.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the ethereal allure of this unique place in Colombia!

San Agustín, Colombia

By Haley of Fernweh Foreigner

One of the less traveled and more unique destinations in southwest Colombia is the beautiful and historical town of San Agustín . It is not the easiest place to get to, but the nature and ancient sites make it well worth the trouble. 

Depending on where you are coming from and how much time you have, there are a few options for getting to this small town. The closest airport is about an hour away in Pitalito , but there is also an airport in Popayán about three and a half hours away. 

It is a bit of a longer ride to San Agustín from Popayán , but this route is highly recommended for beautiful views of nature like waterfalls and volcanoes . There are also bus options from the Coffee Region down to San Agustín but the ride will be significantly longer. 

The main draw for visiting San Agustín is the ancient history that surrounds this small town. Although the town was officially founded in the 1700s, the pre-Columbian cultures that lived here date back thousands of years. 

Today you can explore what these people left behind at places like the Parque Arqueológico De San Agustín , the La Pelota and El Purutal Archaeological Sites , and the La Chaquira Archeological Site . 

The beautiful nature surrounding this town and the archaeological parks is another reason this unique town shouldn’t be missed, and it can be experienced in a number of ways like hiking, mountain biking, jeep rides, or even river rafting. 

The town itself is very walkable but you typically will need transportation to get to activities and sites like the archeological parks. San Agustín also surprisingly has a decent amount of vegan food options for such a small Colombian town .

Rincón del Mar

By Vicki of Vicki Viaja

Do you want to discover a unique place on the Caribbean coast without hordes of tourists? Then Rincón del Mar is the right place for you. In this small village near Cartagena, many residents still live from fishing, and tourism only arrived recently.

One of the best things to do in Rincón del Mar is to visit the stunning Caribbean beaches. There are still large undeveloped stretches of beach to be found here, where you can enjoy the transparent water without music, crowds of tourists, annoying vendors, or the like .

But also, the food in Rincón is excellent , and the restaurants offer plenty of local dishes made with fresh ingredients. So, sit down in one of the restaurants right on the beach, watch the fishermen as they return from the sea in their small boats, and listen to the sound of the waves.

Besides the idyllic beaches, be sure to join some of the tours offered in Rincón del Mar . There are a lot of options, like excursions to other beautiful Caribbean islands nearby . The tour through the mangroves around the small village is also a true highlight. On this tour, accompanied by an experienced guide, you can discover the exciting nature of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

Although the journey from Cartagena de India is not exactly easy – you first have to take the bus to San Onofre, and from there, continue by cab or motorcycle cab – it is definitely worth it. After all, here you can still find a real little gem on the Colombian coast.

Jardín, Colombia

By Cynthia of Sharing the Wander

Jardín, Colombia is a 3 to 4-hour bus ride from the megacity of Medellín, and feels a world away. Here, you’ll find a small town deep in the jungles, surrounded by coffee plantations . The town is centered around a small square with a cathedral. There are cafes all around the square where you will see locals leaning against the colorful walls enjoying a cup of coffee. 

There are many  activities in Jardín , including walking to the viewpoint of Mirador Cristo Rey. It’s a lovely hike up through farmers’ fields, but if it has rained recently, it can get muddy and slippery. You can also take a car or tuk-tuk to the top. You’ll find a small café at the base of the Christ statue where you can order a dessert or a fresh juice while you enjoy the views in front of you. 

One of the most popular things to do in Jardin is visit a coffee farm . Plan a visit to Finca Los Angeles which is run by 5th generation farmers. They will help you arrange a taxi to and from their farm. Once there, they will explain all about the coffee industry, give you a tour, and you can even help pick some coffee beans ! Of course, at the end, you’ll get to taste some of their coffee as well. 

There are lots of delicious restaurants in Jardin- head to Cafe Macanas  for coffee and pastries. Don’t miss a meal at Bella Italia for amazing homemade Italian food. For a more traditional meal, get the Menú del Día at Journal . 

The best time to visit Jardin is in the dry season between December and February . Regardless of when you visit, rain showers can pop up quickly at any time, so plan to carry an umbrella or rain jacket with you when out exploring.

By Claudia Tavani of My Adventures Across The World

The gorgeous Caribbean city of Cartagena was founded in 1533 and it is often the starting point of a trip to Colombia. The city has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984, and rightly so. It truly is a unique place to visit , with a lot to offer to visitors in terms of activities and attractions. 

Among the best things to do in Cartagena  there definitely is a walking tour of the Old City. Here, you will be able to find examples of perfectly kept colonial buildings , and some of the best museums in the city. The best one is probably the Museo del Oro Zenu , which will give you great insights into the pre-colonial past of the country.

Within the walls of the Old City, you will be able to spot the Porta del Reloj (the clocktower) and the well-kept cathedral .

Another part of Cartagena that you should not skip is the colorful Getsemani District , a maze of narrow alleys and beautiful courtyards located a few minutes walk from the Old City. Here, you could consider joining a street art tour , or simply plan to hang out in Plaza de la Trinidad . It’s a favorite spot of locals and tourists alike in the evening, once the temperatures are a bit more forgiving. 

If you are a fan of literature consider going on a tour to follow the footsteps of famous Colombian writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez – 1982 Nobel Prize for Literature and one of the main representatives of the Magical Realism style that is typical of Latin America.

Finally, plan an extra day in the city to actually get out of the city. One of the easiest places to visit on a day trip from Cartagena is the Islas del Rosario Archipelago , home of nice beaches and clear waters that are great for snorkeling. 

Salento and the Valle de Cocora

By Sarah of A Social Nomad

The town of Salento in the central Zona Cafetera of Colombia is perfect for a hike in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and to sample some fabulous coffee . This gorgeous Colombian pueblo has palm trees in the main town square and is one of the oldest Quindio province towns, with some original cobble-stoned streets here from when it was founded in 1850.

It’s been a UNESCO World Heritage location since 2011 when this area of the province was named a Coffee Cultural Landscape. 

Just a 25-minute jeep ride away from the center of town is one of the best things to do in Salento – visiting the Cocora Valley , where you’ll find the 18-meter-high wax palms for which the valley is famous. 

There’s an easy way to get to see the palm and an adventurous way (hiking), anyway, it’s a Colombia bucket list for sure. The hiking is incredible here, and a 7-mile loop trail through the palm trees will take you to the cloud forest, up 2840 meters to Finca Montaña, and then down to a spectacular view.

If you don’t want to hike you can just enjoy the views from where the jeep drops you off and stroll around the area.

Don’t miss the wild hummingbirds near the Casa Colibri , a lovely accompaniment to breakfast.

The other top thing to do in Salento is to take a coffee tour , there are several famous coffee fincas here, with the Plantation House Salento being a great option.  You’ll not only visit coffee plants , but learn about the process, and most importantly taste the end product.

Salento is easy to reach – there’s a bus from Medellin for which you can book your ticket online. If you’re coming from Jardin, take a bus to Rio Sucio, and then one to Salento – neither bus is bookable online, you just have to turn up with cash.

Paloquemao Fruit Market, Bogota

By Gladis of Happiness on the Way

Visiting Paloquemao Fruit Market, Bogota’s largest local farmers’ market , is one of the unique things you can do in Bogota . This bustling market is a unique tapestry of colors, flavors, and culture that offers an authentic Colombian experience.

In Paloquemao, you’ll have a chance to explore various local and exotic fruits . You can discover exotic fruits like lulo, guanabana, and maracuyá , each with a distinct flavor. You’ll be captivated by the kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances while strolling through the market’s vibrant alleys.

But Paloquemao is more than just a feast for the senses; it’s a chance to engage with locals . Strike up a conversation with the friendly vendors, and you’ll learn about the origin of these fruits and where they’re exported.

Don’t miss the chance to savor fresh fruit juices extracted right before your eyes. The taste is unparalleled, as the fruits are as fresh as can be. And when it comes to coffee, Colombia is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest beans. Treat yourself to f reshly brewed Colombian coffee and savor the rich, aromatic flavors.

Beyond fruits, vegetables, and coffee, Paloquemao Market is also a paradise for flower enthusiasts. You can purchase the most exquisite and freshest blooms, adding a burst of color and fragrance to your visit.

To make the most of your trip to Paloquemao, arrive early in the morning to catch the market at its liveliest, and bring some Colombian pesos. To get to Paloquemao, take a taxi, use a ride-sharing app, or hop off at Estación Paloquemao Transmilenio.

Paloquemao Fruit Market is not just a market; it’s an immersion into Colombian culture, a sensory delight, and an opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of this vibrant country. So, when you’re in Bogotá, put this extraordinary place on your must-visit list.

Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas

By Pati of Pati’s Journey Within

Visiting Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas is still a pretty unique thing to do in Colombia mostly due to how remote and how full of contrasts this area is. La Guajira is one of the most extreme parts of Colombia. It is at the same time extremely beautiful and extremely disadvantaged. And yet it is one of the most incredible Colombian adventures you could take.

Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas are like no other place you will ever visit. Cabo de la Vela has the most beautiful coastline and is a paradise for kitesurfer s. Punta Gallinas is the northernmost point of the Colombian mainland and South America . With breathtaking landscapes, turquoise sea, sand dunes, and a vast desert – La Guajira is truly spectacular.

La Guajira is home to the indigenous Wayuu people , who are some of the most resistant people of South America yet some of the poorest people in South America. The Wayuu have inhabited the harsh environment of the La Guajira desert for centuries. They lived off the land, made handicrafts, and passed on all their knowledge

It is recommended to take an organized 3-day tour to see both Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas . The agency organizes the accommodation, meals, and transport, but most importantly it ensures the safety of the trip. You will stay overnight in one of the rancherias and sleep in the traditional hammock, which is surprisingly comfortable.

During the day you drive through the desert in an off-road vehicle and visit some of the most beautiful yet deserted beaches in Colombia . This trip is simply magical.

The best place to start the trip is either Riohacha or Palomino . There is also the option of starting from Santa Marta, but given the length of the drive, this is not recommended.

Capurgana and Sapzurro

By Daniela of Unique Universe

Capurgana and Sapzurro offer a unique blend of breathtaking natural scenery, exotic wildlife, and cultural influences from Colombia and Panama. If you want to get away from the crowds and explore somewhere different, this destination should be at the top of your list.

These two small towns, located on the Colombian Caribbean border with Panama, are partially only accessible by boat. But don’t let their remote locations fool you— there are plenty of great activities here. Unspoiled beaches, lush jungle scenery, exotic wildlife, and a unique cultural mix await you!  

The lush jungle scenery surrounding the beaches is also home to various unique flora and fauna , and we loved discovering the area. We enjoyed exploring the area by boat down the Atrato River, hiking through the jungle, or visiting the nearby San Blas Islands.

The most popular activity is the jungle hike between the two towns . The scenery is breathtaking, and you can dip in one of the natural swimming holes along the way. 

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, take a boat ride or a much shorter hike to the beachfront village of La Miel in Panama. Several smaller beaches can only be accessed by boat or foot. 

So pack your bags, get off the beaten track, and start exploring all that Capurgana and Sapzurro offer!

The easiest way to get to Capurgana and Sapzurro is by boat . The towns are accessible from the mainland port of Turbo or Necocli , which is located about three hours southwest of Medellin. The boat ride may be rough and boats leave only early in the morning. So most likely you will have to spend a night in Necocli, a charming beach town. 

San Basilio de Palenque

By Kristin of Growing Global Citizens

If you are a traveler who is interested in history or Afro-Latino culture , you can’t miss San Basilio de Palenque, a UNESCO-recognized site. This town was formed in 1603 by formerly enslaved Africans who had been able to run away from their captors in Cartagena. Over the years it developed its own unique culture based on African traditions, many of which are still practiced today.

Visiting Palenque is an easy day trip from Cartagena.  You’ll need to go with a guided tour , which will pick you up and drive you the 60-90 minutes it takes to get to Palenque, depending on traffic. 

Once in the town, you’ll be taken to a number of different sights including meeting a medicine man and learning traditional healing practices, seeing champeta danc e, and jumping in a boxing ring to learn about Palenque native Kid Pambelé , the best boxer in the history of Colombia. 

You’ll also get to learn a bit of the Palenquero language , see gorgeous street art and, if you are lucky, try some African drumming .

Your tour will likely include a simple but tasty lunch at the house of a community member and the chance to shop for local snacks and souvenirs before you leave. 

Palenque’s history makes it an off-the-beaten-path site that provides a unique experience .

Tayrona National Park

By Claire of Tales of a Backpacker

Tayrona National Park on Colombia’s Caribbean coast is one of the best places to visit in Colombia , an incredible place covering around 150 km2 of land and 30 km2 of ocean habitat. Here you can explore lush rainforests, enjoy beautiful beaches, and learn more about the indigenous culture of the region.   

The main entrance to the park is at El Zaíno . There are shuttles that run from Santa Marta to El Zaíno and other stops along the coast like Palamino.  From the entrance, you’ll need to hike for around 2 hours to get to the best beaches .  You can also take a boat from Taganga but the journey can be very rough! 

While you could visit Tayrona on a day trip , I’d recommend spending at least a night or two here to enjoy the beaches after the day trippers have gone. There is a variety of  accommodation in Tayrona National Park , from luxury ecohabs to camping and sleeping in a hammock so you’ll find something to suit every budget. 

Cabo San Juan del Guia is the most popular beach to camp and swim – some of the beaches in Tayrona have dangerous currents so pay attention to the signage to stay safe while in the water. 

Away from the beach, take the time to explore some of the hiking trails in the park , keeping a lookout for animals like the endangered cotton-top tamarin , as well as howler monkeys, bats, birds, butterflies, and a host of other creatures. 

Indigenous people still live in Tayrona National Park, and you may well see them on the hiking trails. You can also hike to El Pueblito , a settlement deep in the jungle where some of the Kogi people live.

Guatepe is one of the most unique places to visit in Colombia thanks to its colorful buildings, beautiful lake, and the famous Piedra del Peñol. Located in Antioquia near Medellín, it’s a must-see in the area.

You can visit as a day trip from Medellín. If you don’t have a car take the bus to the rock then you can either take a cab or catch a bus to the town center. You can also book a guided tour or plan to spend a few nights there.

The main thing to do there is to climb the 740 steps leading to the top of Piedra del Peñol , a giant granite rock formation. From there you’ll get stunning views over the lake and small islands . At the bottom, you’ll find several shops and restaurants.

Don’t miss the picturesque town known for its colorful houses, paved streets, and wooden bas-reliefs. Stroll around starting at the main plaza and just get lost in the small streets.

Another great thing to do there is to rent a kayak and explore the waterways, go with a local guide to see all the top spots! There are plenty of other watersports you can do as well, like jet skiing, wakeboarding, and flyboarding.

You’ll also find several nice hikes leading to villages, caves, coffee farms, and waterfalls . Look on Maps.Me for the trails or go on a group excursion.

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The Partying Traveler

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17 Top Travel Destinations to Visit in Colombia

From its sparkling Caribbean coastline to its snow-capped Andean mountains and lush Amazon Rainforest, Colombia has no shortage of incredible destinations to visit. Colombia was the first country I ever solo traveled to, sparking a love for travel that led me to this full-time nomadic lifestyle that I live now. For that, it’ll always hold a special little nook in my heart. No matter how many times I visit Colombia, it always feels like there is somewhere new to be explored and a new reason to fall further in love with this country. While there are many amazing travel destinations in Colombia, here are the best of the best.

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.

Oh, and before you head out, make sure to have good travel insurance handy while you’re off adventuring across the world. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $40 a month.

And if you’re a backpacker on a budget, use Skiplagged to find the cheapest flights possible. It’s free to use and I’ve saved thousands of dollars on flights since I started using it religiously.

Salento and Valle de Cocora

This is without a doubt my favorite place I visited in Colombia. The Valle de Cocora is home to otherworldly landscapes, highlighted by the towering wax palms that are unique to this region of Colombia. The loop that takes you around the Cocora Valley is a favorite hike of mine in South America. Along with the Cocora Valley, one can visit a coffee farm or go on other excursions to the neighboring villages, like Filandia. The town of Salento is a charming and colorful home base for exploring the nearby natural wonders. It truly feels like another planet out here, and no visit to Colombia is complete without immersing yourself in the eje cafetero . The vibe here is wonderful, and playing tejo with the locals over a few Aguilas is the perfect way to spend an evening after hiking.

The Backpacker’s Guide to Salento

Touristy as it may be, Guatape is still a must-visit. The colorful town has a unique style of decoration   that distinguishes it from Colombia’s other beautiful villages. You’ll find the  zocalos depicting various scenes painted and sculpted onto the exterior of Guatape’s buildings. The town is very vibrant, photogenic and truly an Instagrammer’s paradise. Along with a visit to the town of Guatape itself, be sure to climb up  El Peñol , the monolith towering over the countryside. It’s hard to miss. Hike up the 649 steps to reach the top where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the lush countryside and the turquoise dragon-esque lake.

Medellin is truly something else. This sprawling city surrounded by rolling green hills is one-of-a-kind. I’ve yet to visit a city that matched the vibe of Medellin. I’ve spent over a month in Medellin and this city truly never gets boring. Medellin boasts an incredible nightlife scene, arguably the best in all of Colombia . The tourist center is in El Poblado, and I’d recommend staying here for first-time visitors looking to find their footing in this often chaotic city. Masaya Medellin and Los Patios Hostel are two of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed in, and I’m talking about the entire world. Be sure to pay a visit to Comuna 13 . This  barrio was once among the most dangerous in the world, but has been reinvented through art, music, and color.

The Backpacker’s Guide to Medellin, Colombia

San Bernardo Islands

If you want some island vibes without being surrounded by tourists, then the San Bernardo Islands are where it’s at. It’s worth the journey from Cartagena to escape the crowds. The beaches here are hidden gems and are immaculate, especially those on Isla Mucura and Tintipan. You’ll find some amazing and unique hostels, like the floating hostel of Casa En El Agua, and Isla Roots Hostel situated on its own private island.

Cartagena is a special place. It was the starting point of my first backpacking trip. Despite how its changed over the years, it remains an essential stop on any Colombia travel itinerary. The Old Town of Cartagena, nestled inside the walls of the old fortress, is colorful, charming, and as photogenic as it gets. Just outside the Walled City of Cartagena, you’ll find the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemani, filled with street art and life.

Cartagena serves as a great home base for exploring some of Colombia’s finest Caribbean beaches. Although it is easily the most expensive destination in Colombia, it’s still worth stopping by for a few days. Casa Zahri in Getsemani or Viajero in the Walled City are my two hostel picks for Cartgena.

The Backpacker’s Guide to Cartagena

Tayrona National Park

Perhaps the most famous of Colombia’s many beaches is Tayrona National Park. The coastal city of Santa Marta is where most visits to Tayrona start. From there, take a bus or taxi to the entrance before beginning a sweaty hike through the jungle and along the coast. It’s possible to camp or hammock camp on the beach itself, which many travelers will do to give themselves enough time to enjoy the beauty of this place. With turquoise waters, golden sands, and lush, jungly landscapes, Tayrona is the perfect place to disconnect for a day or two.

Minca is the perfect destination for a retreat into the tranquil Colombian sierras. Located only an hour away from Santa Marta, it serves as a convenient gateway to adventure. Whether you’re hoping to chase waterfalls or simply kick back on a hammock and take in the views, Minca can’t be missed. Despite its popularity, it is still a pretty barebones destination. Don’t expect much in the way of Wi-Fi or luxury, but with views like these, you don’t need much else. Most hostels in Minca will offer similar properties, but among the best of the best are Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge , Carpe Diem Ecolodge , and my favorite hostel chain in Colombia – Masaya . 

Ciudad Perdida Trek (The Lost City)

A 4-day trek will take you to one of Colombia’s most iconic destinations, The Lost City. While it’s no Machu Picchu, these Incan ruins are lesser-traveled and much more remote. I haven’t done this yet, since I do find it to be a little pricy compared to similar treks to archaeological sites that one can do in Peru. However, my friends who have done it speak very highly of it. Just be sure to pack some bug spray before setting off on Colombia’s most famous trek.

San Gil and Barichara

San Gil is often called the adventure capital of Colombia. It’s pretty fitting, to be fair. You can take to the skies with a paragliding trip over Chicamocha Canyon. Or, you can rappel down Juan Curi waterfalls if that’s more your fancy. Exploring caves, white-water rafting, and more await in the town of San Gil. It reminds me a lot of Baños in Ecuador , but even more affordable. Paragliding and white-water rafting will only run you 200,000 COP, or about $55 USD.

The hostel I stayed at was Sams VIP Hostel , with dorm beds starting as low as $4 USD per night. The staff will happily help you organize whatever adventure you want to go on. They also have a pool and a sauna, as well as affordable massages at about $20 USD for an hour. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself after a long day of adventuring. Be sure not to miss a visit to neighboring Barichara, thought by some to be the most beautiful town in Colombia.

Villa De Leyva, Boyaca

Ahh, Villa de Leyva. I was honestly glad I didn’t visit until the last few days of my two-month Colombia adventure. If I had visited any earlier, I might have spent my entire time here. The vibe here is immaculate. This beautiful colonial town of all-white buildings has a very laid-back energy. It’s the perfect spot to lay low after a hectic travel schedule, and I’d say a top destination for remote workers in Colombia . An aimless wander along the cobblestone streets is a massage for your feet and a sight for your eyes. It might also lead to sprained ankles if you aren’t careful, because dang, these cobblestone streets don’t mess around.

Carnaval in Barranquilla

The biggest party in Colombia (and second biggest in the world) takes place in Barranquilla. While I don’t find the city of Barranquilla itself to be all that great, if you happen to be around during Carnaval, the city transforms entirely. It’s a weeklong party with colorful costumes, street parties, and nonstop music. There are two sides to Carnaval in Barranquilla. One can have a very cultural experience, as it is also a huge showcase of the many cultures that call Colombia home. On the other hand, one can go strictly to party and have the time of their life. The party never stops during Carnival. Colombia is already a country that loves to drink and dance, and that’s exponentially amplified during Carnival Week in Barranquilla.

Leticia and the Amazon Rainforest

Along with the Andes Mountains and Caribbean Coastline, Colombia is also home to a chunk of the Amazon Rainforest. Talk about a diversely beautiful country. Leticia is the main gateway to the Amazon, located all the way to the south of the country, right on a shared border with Peru and Brazil. In fact, you can actually stand on all three countries at once if you wish.

The lively but chaotic capital of Colombia is a pretty polarizing destination. Ask a random traveler off the street what they think of Bogota, and there’s a 50/50 chance that they’ll say they either love it or hate it. I feel pretty similarly, but do think that a few days in Bogota can be well spent. While it’s no Medellin ,, Bogota is a cool, lively, and vibrant city with plenty of things to keep you busy. The main concern is that it can be quite unsafe, and you have a high chance of being separated from your belongings. Just remember the motto of Colombia,  no dar papaya , and you should be okay.

Some highlights of Bogota are Cerro Monserrat, the historic center, the colorful Comuna Paraiso, and the vibrant nightlife district of Chapinero. Teatron might be one of my favorite clubs I’ve ever been to, so be sure to dance the night away there at least once.

And of course, there are so many other places that I’ve yet to visit that are on my bucket list. Here are a few of those destinations that are yet to be ticked off.

Nevado de Cocuy National Park

The landscapes here look straight out of Patagonia. The Colombian Andes might be the most underrated and overlooked out of the entire mountain range, but make sure not to make that mistake. There are plenty of hiking opportunities in this national park and the other Andean regions of Colombia.

Caño Cristales

This place looks out of this world. These waterfalls and river boasts colors that don’t seem real. I’ve yet to see them for myself, so I have no idea if they live up to the expectations, but it’s been on my Colombia bucket list since my first visit. It’s a bit out of the way for the typical traveler, but if it’s half as beautiful as the pictures make it look, then it’s worth it.

Las Lajas Sanctuary

This cathedral is practically in the middle of nowhere, but it’s so beautiful that people make the journey nonetheless. I’ve yet to do it myself, but if you happen to be in the area or hopping the border over to Ecuador, it’s worth the detour.

Tatacoa Desert

Colombia truly has it all. Snow-capped peaks to sparkling waters, lush Amazon jungles to otherworldly deserts like Tatacoa. With landscapes straight out of Mars, Tatacoa is one of Colombia’s most surreal natural wonders.

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2 thoughts on “ 17 top travel destinations to visit in colombia ”.

We really loved visiting Cartagena. We roamed around parts of Colombia . Great images. Anita

Big fan of Medellin and the Caribbean Coast! Have you made it to San Andres? Thoughts?

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17 Reasons to Visit Colombia

By Caitlin Morton

Tayrona National Park

Located on the northern Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is home to pre-Hispanic ruins, tropical rainforests, and some of the country's most beautiful beaches . While the palm-shaded beaches may be the biggest attraction, the park is also popular for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see monkeys, lizards, and Andean condors in their native habitat.

Ciudad Perdida

Hidden in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, Ciudad Perdida ("Lost City") is an ancient city 650 years older than Machu Picchu that remained undiscovered for more than a thousand years. It is only accessible via a 27-mile hike, traversing dense jungle and steep climbs, but it's worth it to live your best Indiana Jones life.

This immaculately preserved 16th-century city on the Caribbean coast should be on any Colombian itinerary. Visit the UNESCO-listed Old Town, complete with cobbled streets and colonial architecture, as well as the high-rise-heavy neighborhood of Bocagrande and street-art haven of Getsemaní .

Valle de Cocora

Valle de Cocora is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Colombia—and that's saying something. The park is filled with the tallest palm trees in the world at nearly 200 feet, and surrounded by misty green hills.

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

CNT Editors

Jardín Botánico del Pacífico, Playa Mecana

This Pacific coast's botanical garden comprises 420 acres of mangroves and tropical forests, waterfalls and beaches, and wildlife like jaguars and sloths. The park's staff are available to take you on hiking treks, river boat rides, and whale watching expeditions.

Las Lajas Sanctuary

Las Lajas Sanctuary is one of the most unusual churches in the world, due to its precarious location 150 feet over a river gorge. The site first served as a shrine in the 1700s following a reported sighting of the Virgin Mary's image in the rocks, and the current Gothic-style church was built in the early 1900s.

Gorgona Island

Surrounded by shark-infested waters and inhabited by venomous snakes , Gorgona Island served as a prison from the 1950s to 1980s, sort of like Colombia's answer to Alcatraz. After the prison closed, the island was converted into a national park. Today, you can take a lengthy boat ride (between 2-12 hours, depending on where you leave) to reach this ecological wonderland, where foliage wraps around the ruins of the prison, humpback whales gather offshore to mate, and every inch is crawling with lizards, monkeys—and, yes, snakes. The location is remote, wild, and even a tad eerie, but it's also amazingly beautiful, as its distance from the mainland has allowed its ecosystem to remain healthy and relatively untouched. An excursion here may not be for everyone, but if diving with sharks by day and sleeping in an abandoned prison by night sounds like your cup of tea, then step right up.

Santa Rosa de Cabal

Hot springs enthusiasts should head to Santa Rosa de Cabal, a town of 60,000 on the western slopes of the Andes in the Zona Cafetera (more on that later). The town has two thermal spring retreats, Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal Hotel and Termales Santa Rose de Cabal Balneario, that feature pools with natural waterfalls in a cloud forest setting.

Bahía Solano

Bahía Solano is the largest municipality on the Chocó region's Pacific coastline, known for its deep-sea fishing, surfing , humpback whale watching, and jungle hiking opportunities.

Sitting in the Aburrá Valley in the central Andes, Colombia's second largest city boasts a pleasant climate year-round. Once the center of Colombia's notorious drug trade , Medellín is rapidly transforming itself into the Silicon Valley of Latin America—a remarkable turnaround that is a mainstay of public policy and city planning school curricula worldwide. There's entrepreneurialism and innovation at work seemingly on every corner, but the city also attracts people from all over the world for its botanical gardens (make sure to check out the Orchidiarium) and statue-filled Plaza Botero, as well as its annual flower festival, Feria de Las Flores .

Cabo de la Vela

The ochre desert meets the aquamarine sea at Cabo de la Vela, a unique cape surrounded by rocky cliffs. Located on the Guajira Peninsula on Colombia's northern tip, it's not easy to get to (expect at least two hours on bumpy dirt roads), but it's absolutely worth the trip.

Zona Cafetera

Colombia is the second-largest producer of coffee in the world (after Brazil), and the majority of its crop is grown in one region: La Zona Cafetera, also known as the Coffee Triangle or Coffee Axis. This UNESCO site is home to thermal baths, botanical gardens, and scenic plantations at the foothills of the Andes.

Malpelo Island

Located more than 300 miles off the western coast of Colombia, this mile-long island and surrounding marine environment have been a UNESCO site since 2006. It is widely recognized as one of the world's top diving sites, particularly for people looking to swim with sharks ; aggregations of 200 hammerhead sharks and 1,000 silky sharks have been recorded in these waters.

Salt Cathedral, Zipaquirá

Located 650 feet underground, this holy space originally served as a salt mine in the 1800s. By 1932, miners had carved out an altar and sanctuary where they could pray for protection before going to work, and the project only grew from there. What exists today is a massive underground attraction featuring statues illuminated with colored lights, and a chapel that welcomes around 3,000 worshippers for Catholic services every Sunday.

Capurganá is an idyllic car-free village hidden away on Colombia's northwest coastline. Part of the adventure is getting here, as you can only reach the town by boat or small plane from Medellín. But once you arrive, the crowd-free beaches, dense rainforests, and beautiful coral reefs are worthy rewards.

Sitting 8,660 feet high in the Andes, Colombia's capital city is also one of the best places to visit in the country. Travelers love to flock to La Candelaria, Bogotá's historic district brimming with museums and stunning government buildings. Another can't miss: the impossibly steep cable car ride up to Mount Monserrate to take in sweeping views of the city.

Caño Cristales

Caño Cristales is a river in central Colombia that becomes a technicolor wonder for a few months each year. The phenomenon occurs between the wet and dry seasons (generally between July and December), during which time a plant species called Macarenia clavigera lining the river floor turns bright red; the plant doesn't get enough sunlight during the wet season to change colors, nor enough water during the dry season. The plants are then offset by yellow sand and blue water, giving the river its rainbow effect.

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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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The Best Places for Your 2024 Colombia Travel Itinerary

Updated September 6, 2023

Word's getting out: Colombia is a traveler's paradise—and these are the  places you absolutely have to see when you visit. Check out the best of what Colombia has to offer; once you do, feel free to  drop us a line  with any questions whatsoever.

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners— Heroes —who build unique, locally-curated trip plans, designed just for you. Get started .

Table of Contents

The culture, bogota: where history meets hipster.

Colombia’s capital and largest metropolis, Bogota is the country's beating heart. With its awesome climate (58° on average!), delicious food, internationally-acclaimed graffiti , and colonial architecture, the city has also become Colombia’s hipster capital —and for good reason. The La Candelaria, Chapinero Alto, and Zona T neighborhoods are bursting with hipster-approved restaurants, trendy bars, and thrilling nightclubs. Safe and hip, Bogota simply can't be missed.

Medellin: a passionate hub of art and innovation

Forget what you’ve seen on because Medellin is so much more than “Narcos”. Since the perilous days of the 1980s, Medellin has turned itself around in sensational style. Today, its renewed infrastructure is winning international praise—including the 2016 Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize for urban development—and has made the city  safer than ever . Don’t miss out on riding the famed metrocable (part of Medellin’s award-winning public transportation system ) over the city for a thoroughly stunning view. Oh, and Medellin’s nickname, “The City of Eternal Spring” isn’t just an empty boast—this mountain metropolis enjoys a perfect average temperature of 72°F!

Cartagena: the quintessential Caribbean paradise

Equal parts idyllic and relaxing, Cartagena is a beachfront paradise that you have to see to believe. Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean shore, Cartagena’s city walls (originally built to keep out pirates!) enclose the pristine 17th- and 18th-century Spanish architecture of its fabled Old Town. Beautiful and fun, Cartagena boasts a ton of activities ; beachfront clubbing, walks through the cobblestone alleys of the Walled City, boat trips to the Rosario Islands, and delicious seafood dinners are just a few of its  highlights .

Cali: the gritty, sexy center of salsa dancing

Undeniably grittier than its sister cities, Cali is nonetheless a capital city—of salsa dancing, that is! Known as the salsa capital of the world, Cali’s improving safety , up-and-coming neighborhoods, thrilling nightlife, and surplus of sports teams make the city a must-see destination for those who like to live on the wild side.

The Coffee Triangle and Salento: delicious beans and incredible views

High in the Andes, amidst the cool, green mountain rainforest, lies Colombia’s most delicious region— the Coffee Triangle . Also known as “Zona ”, the coffee triangle is home to thousands of coffee plantations both large and small—where some of the world’s best beans are grown, harvested, and processed on-site. Check out a few of these incredible farms, many of which offer on-site accommodations (bed and breakfast being the most popular style). The town of  Salento , located in the heart of the Coffee Triangle, is particularly beloved by travelers. 

The Cloud Forest: unlike anything you’ve ever seen

Blanketed in a fog so dense you could almost cut it with a knife, the Colombian cloud forest is an experience unlike anything else. Wet, wild, and oddly primordial, these forests are alive with the sounds of birds, animals, and insects found nowhere else in the world. But while most jungles are oppressively hot, the high elevation of cloud forest keeps it cool all year long! Head to Chicaque Natural Park , just 30 minutes outside of Bogota, to hike, horseback ride, or through the Colombian cloud forest for yourself. If you’re lucky, you may just spot an adorable two-toed sloth —or even an endangered spectacled bear !

The Amazon Jungle: brimming with wildlife

So lush it almost defies belief, the Amazon jungle accounts for much of Colombia’s incredible biodiversity (the second-highest level of biodiversity on the planet)! From Leticia, Colombia’s southernmost city, travelers can venture into this Jungle Book- wonderland of lush rainforest, gorgeous wildlife, and one-of-a-kind adventure. Don’t be nervous—your Hero will plan your Amazon excursion from start to finish. Try and spot some Pink Amazon River Dolphins , or even a toucan or two!

The Pacific Coast: rugged and beautiful

One of the least-visited areas of Colombia, the Pacific coast is as beautiful as it is remote. Here, thick, untamed jungle stretches all the way to the beach—so transportation to and from the region is minimal, and mostly by boat. Despite the Pacific coast’s remoteness (or perhaps because of it), there’s no better place to experience the raw beauty of Colombia’s nature. Surfing, trekking, and birdwatching are popular pastimes here. And since Humpback whales are known to give birth and raise their young just offshore ever year between midsummer and early autumn, the region’s whale watching is absolutely unparalleled.

The Pacific Mangrove Swamps: mysterious and surprisingly cultural

While villages along the Pacific coast are few and far between, those that do exist are largely populated by indigenous Colombians and the descendants of freed slaves. For that reason, the area is a one-of-a-kind melting pot of language, food, music, and culture. Not just a fantastic cultural adventure, you can actually canoe through the  lush mangrove swamps that dot the coastline!

Tayrona: idyllic beaches and one-of-a-kind views

Often described as one of the most beautiful places on Earth, Tayrona National Park is where the Santa Marta mountains—the tallest coastal mountains in the world—plunge dramatically into the Caribbean Sea. Forming a natural system of bays and coves, these mountains serve as a dramatic backdrop to the white sand beaches, thick jungle, and mangrove forests that line the coast. Relax under a palm tree and take in the splendor, or go for a dip in the crystal-clear Caribbean!

The Tatacoa Desert: beautiful and bizarre

Six hours southwest of Bogota, the Tatacoa Desert looks like it belongs on another planet entirely. Its landscape of bizarre rock formations, reddish-brown dirt, and deep, swirling canyons are more than striking—they’re absolutely extraordinary! A trip to this geological wonder is well worth it, especially if you plan to camp under the stars, stop by the famed Tatacoa Observatory, or take a dip in the infamous Tatacoa Desert Oasis. Bizarre as it sounds, Tatacoa is an incredible and unique experience .

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

No journey to Bogota is complete without a quick day trip out to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira . Buried five hundred feet below ground in an ancient (though still in-use) salt mine, this functioning cathedral is entirely carved from the walls, ceiling, and floor of the mine itself!

Caño Cristales

Commonly known as “The Liquid Rainbow” or “The River of Five Colors”, the Caño Cristales is like nothing else in the world. Shimmering with a jaw-dropping rainbow of color courtesy of its vibrant aquatic vegetation, this river is a true marvel of nature. For the bathing experience of a lifetime, have one of our  custom trip planners book you an excursion out to Serrania de la Macarena National Park to take a dip!

San Agustin

High in the Andean foothills, the San Agustin Archaeological Site is home to the largest necropolis (ancient burial site) located anywhere in the world. Even more impressively, the site boasts over 500 massive, intricately-carved stone statues that range between 1600-2000 years old! While the site is somewhat isolated, traveling within Colombia has never been safer or easier , so don’t hesitate to check out this one-of-a-kind wonder!

El Totumo Mud Volcano

One of Colombia’s attractions, the El Totumo Mud Volcano is an experience unlike any other. Only a 45-minute ride from Cartagena, this 50-foot-tall mountain offers visitors the chance to take a dip in the silky, mineral-rich mud that fills its crater. Locals ply the area for tips, offering in-volcano massages, cleansing rinses, and commemorative photos; needless to say, this is one day trip you can’t miss out on.

Santuario de Las Lajas

Perched on a green, rocky mountainside above the Guaitara River, the Santuario de Las Lajas is one of the most striking churches located anywhere in the world. Breathtaking neo-gothic architecture, along with the site’s dramatic locale, make this church a must-see for anyone and everyone!

The Lost City

A trip to La Ciudad Perdida—The Lost City—is one thing that has to be on any adventurer’s Colombia travel itinerary . Hidden deep in the jungle, the ruins of this incredible city (called “Teyuna” by the locals) are well worth the days-long hike it takes to see them. Built by the Tayrona civilization over 1200 years ago, these ruins are even older than Machu Picchu! One of our Heroes can  arrange a guided trek for a once-in-a-lifetime, Indiana Jones-style adventure!

Guatape: a colonial town frozen in time

Situated just on the outskirts of Medellin, Guatape is often called the “most colorful town in Colombia”—and that’s saying something! Seemingly frozen in time, the colorful colonial architecture of this adorable hamlet is rivaled only by the majesty of La Piedra del Peñol, the massive, iconic granite rock looming just outside of town. Stop by for a day trip from Medellin; peruse the town, have a and climb the rock for an unrivaled view of the surrounding landscape!

San Basilio de Palenque: a town unlike any other in the world

Only an hour away from Cartagena lies one of the most culturally and historically significant locales Palenque de San Basilio. Founded in the 17th-century by some of the first freed slaves in the Americas, this town is the only surviving palenque —walled villages built by escaped slaves to take refuge from their Spanish captors. To that end, the town’s culture is an incredible synthesis of Afro-Colombian elements, complete with unique foods, customs, and a language (Palenquero) spoken nowhere else in the world !

Barranquilla: the carnival of carnivals

While somewhat grittier than Colombia’s other major cities, Barranquilla has something that sets it apart: Carnival! only to Rio de Janeiro’s in size, Barranquilla’s Carnival celebrations are a wonder to behold. Come the celebration season, thousands flock to the streets for four days of unsurpassed revelry (and in some cases, debauchery)—bright colors and flamboyant costumes are the ; drinks flow freely; parades, dancing, and music abound. Simply put, if you’re a party animal, you can’t do better than to experience Carnival in Barranquilla .

Comuna 13: a neighborhood apart

In the dark days of Escobar, Comuna 13 was known as the most dangerous neighborhood in Colombia. Controlled by gangs loyal to the Medellin Cartel, the neighborhood was a notorious hive of illegal activity. But like the rest of Colombia, Comuna 13 has reinvented itself in spectacular fashion since the end of the drug wars. Today, due in no small part to Medellin’s incredible public transportation system (including a massive escalator connecting the residents of Comuna 13 to the rest of the city), this neighborhood is alive with youth movements, incredible street culture, and an abundance of politically-charged street art.

Santa Rosa de Cabal: the paradise you’d never expect

High in the Andes, Santa Rosa de Cabal may seem like just another town in the Coffee Triangle—but it’s anything but! Though gold and silver mines—not to mention incredibly lush cloud forest—surround the village, Santa Rosa’s real draws are its vibrant silkworm trade (seriously!) and its incredible (thermal hot springs)! For a unique one-of-a-kind adventure into Colombia’s off-the-beaten-track culture , you can’t do better than a trip to Santa Rosa de Cabal. Oh, and thanks to Colombia’s excellent transportation , you can simply take a bus from Medellin—it’s that easy!

Needless to say, Colombia is overflowing with incredible places to visit and adventures to experience. Get started on planning your own custom Colombia itinerary with one of our local Heroes , or message us with any questions you have! And b efore your trip, make sure to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• Colombia Itinerary
• Colombia Safety
• Things to Do in Colombia
• Colombia Visa Requirements

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13 Important Tips For First-Timers Visiting Colombia

• Eat at the hotel for cleanliness and safety.
• Bring enough cash for daily activities, especially in remote areas.
• Learn basic Spanish to navigate the country and communicate effectively.

Visiting Colombia for the first time can be exciting, but just like any destination worldwide, there are some tips one needs to know before visiting. Language, weather, money, and transportation can be quite confusing, especially in Colombia. Still, with these tips, one will be able to avoid a lot of difficult situations in the country. It doesn't matter if you're here for ten days or three; Colombia is a gorgeous country with endless things to experience. Whether it's someone's first time or they need a refresher, you can't go wrong with following these essential tips for traveling to beautiful Colombia!

UPDATE: 2023/11/25 16:36 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Know When Visiting Colombia

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding a trip to beautiful Colombia, as well as expanded talking points for previous suggestions. Remember to stay out of bad neighborhoods at night, bring enough cash for day trips, learn some Spanish, and have plenty of fun!

Eat At The Hotel If You're Worried About Cleanliness

For those coming to Colombia and nervous about food and water cleanliness, it's always a safe bet to eat with your hotel or resort and get water via gift shops inside them. Although most places in bigger Colombian cities are clean and safe, some smaller villages do not abide by strict health and sanitation regulations when preparing or serving food and drinks. To steer clear of food-borne illness, make sure and book restaurants with good reviews and clean kitchens/dining rooms.

• It's generally better to eat at the hotel if you're staying somewhere off the beaten path.

Tayrona National Park is a fun day trip idea for visitors to Colombia.

Make Sure And Keep Some Cash Ready

One thing many visitors to Colombia forget is to bring enough cash for daily activities. Because debit and credit cards are often not accepted or take a large conversion fee, getting cash from the bank or at your hotel may be the better option. Of course, in bigger cities, there will be more accessibility and availability to ATMs and stores taking credit cards, but in remote towns and villages: bring cash.

That said, keep all cash somewhere safe and hard to get to. Pickpocketing is prevalent here, as well as violent assault in poorer areas.

• Because of steep ATM and credit card fees, it's best to bring enough money for everyday food, attractions, and transportation when visiting Colombia.

Learn Some Spanish Words

Colombia is a place where the majority of the population speaks only Spanish. In a place like Bogotá - the capital city , most people only speak Spanish, which means it can be difficult to get around if one only knows English. While one does not necessarily need to know how to speak the language, some basic words will go a long way and help one better get around the country.

• Learning basic Spanish will go a long way when coming to Colombia.

Taxis Are Cheap, But Buses Are Cheaper And Safer

Buses are Colombia's main means of transportation, and they are incredibly cheap and safe. Taxis, on the other hand, are also cheap, but a few inconveniences come with them. First, they can be unsafe, as fake taxi drivers can rob passengers. Apps such as Uber and Easy Taxi are illegal in the country, but they are still in operation and are the safest ways to get taxis.

• Taking the bus is often cheaper and safer than taxis while in Colombia.

Avoid Lonely Areas, Especially At Night

Just like many other amazing destinations worldwide, Colombia experiences increased crime, which is why one must exercise extreme caution when visiting. A good rule is avoiding lonely areas, especially at night. For the first trip, travelers can stick to the popular tourist destinations around the country, which are usually more crowded, to avoid being an easy target.

• Tourists to Colombia are not recommended to venture out into lonely/quiet areas at night.

Avoid Unnecessary Display Of Wealth

Showing unnecessary displays of wealth, especially in a country like Colombia, may be dangerous. The country's economy is bad, which has made many people living there desperate. It is advisable to avoid putting on too many accessories or carrying large amounts of money around to avoid drawing too much attention to oneself.

• Wearing fancy clothes, jewelry, or other accessories in Colombia can get you into trouble at night or in certain areas.

Prepare An Itinerary To Follow Before Visiting

Colombia is very big and endowed with plenty of natural and man-made attractions, which means there are plenty of things to see and do here. Without a proper itinerary of what to do in the country, one can find it difficult to get the most out of their visit. During the planning process, make a list of things to do in the country and follow that itinerary when in the country. There will be more to do, but it is better to have a plan rather than randomly deciding what to do.

• Planning before you come here can help ease frustration due to Colombia's vast offerings.

Related: 10 Best Places To Visit In Colombia

The Weather Can Be Unpredictable, So Come Prepared

Colombia experiences two major seasons, which are rainy and dry. But the weather is not usually not dependent on the time of the year but on elevation. The weather can easily change from sunny to rainy in some parts of the country with higher elevations, like Bogotá. The temperature is also known to sometimes rise from as low as 4 degrees Celsius to 19 degrees Celsius on some days. Some parts of the country, such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, experience lots of sunshine all year round. This means at any time of the year; one can experience all four seasons in Colombia. With such diverse and unpredictable weather, one has to come prepared to face any type of weather in this country.

• The weather is unpredictable in Colombia, with wild changes in temperature being common.

Never Talk About Drugs, Especially Cocaine

One important thing to always avoid doing in Colombia is talking about drugs. Drug production and trafficking continue to increase in this country, and drug is always accompanied by crime. This makes it not just a national issue but a global issue for which Colombia plays a major role as it is one of the major producers of cocaine in the world. In 2021, the production of coca leaves which is the main ingredient for cocaine, increased drastically. To avoid getting into a difficult situation, pretend not to know anything about drugs in Colombia and instead focus on enjoying the amazing things the country has to offer.

• Joking or discussing cocaine can and will get you in trouble with law enforcement in Colombia.

Haggle Before Buying Something

The asking price of a product in Colombia may not always be the actual price but just the seller trying to get more profit from tourists who may not know the price. To avoid getting ripped by sellers (who always know a gringo when they see one), employ the skill of bargaining when purchasing something. Buying something $5 less than the initial asking price is not uncommon.

• It's worth it to try and bargain with vendors while shopping in Colombia.

Altitude Sickness Is Real In Colombia

In Colombia, like many parts of South America, high altitude is something that one often has to worry about as the country is filled with many mountains. Bogota, the country’s capital, rises to an elevation of 8,660 feet , making it one of the highest cities in the world. One important tip to help deal with altitude sickness in Colombia is to always stay hydrated when heading to places with high altitudes. Adventurers seeking to go rock climbing or visit higher places can also include other substances like vitamins and minerals to cushion the effects of the high altitudes. Alcohol, caffeine, and other dehydrating substances should also be avoided when heading to higher elevations.

• Because of the possible 8,660 feet of elevation in Colombia, it's not uncommon for altitude sickness to ravage through groups vacationing to the country.

Related: Tips To Avoid The Altitude Sickness While Traveling In South America

It’s Not Mandatory To Tip

In hotels, bars, restaurants, and other service centers around Colombia, tipping is not usually mandatory or expected, unlike in other countries. Nicer restaurants usually include a 10% service charge automatically on the bill. Of course, if the service was exceptional, it does not hurt to give the service person some extra change. Tipping taxi drivers is also not a thing as passengers are only required to pay the amount on the meter; still, the extra tip is always appreciated. In most cases, tips cost between 2,000 and 5,000 Columbian Pesos, equivalent to a dollar. That's like nothing to most tourists, but the locals in Colombia appreciate it so much.

• Adding a tip (although appreciated) is not required in Colombia.

Be Careful On The Roads

The traffic in Colombia can be chaotic. Drivers here are usually impatient and aggressive and won’t stop for anybody. To avoid getting into a dangerous situation on the road, it is important to be careful on the roads. With dangerous roads and long traffic jams, it will be better to avoid driving in Colombia and just stick to using taxis and buses.

• Driving can be difficult here, especially regarding other impatient and volatile drivers.

10 Coolest Towns In The Pacific Northwest For A Summer Vacation In 2024

From outdoor adventures amid stunning landscapes to escapes celebrating culture, this list unveils the PNW’s best summer destinations.

• Explore vibrant Bend, Oregon for mountain biking, craft breweries, and stunning landscapes this summer.
• Discover Leavenworth in Washington for Bavarian charm, outdoor adventures, and cultural festivals in scenic settings.
• Immerse yourself in Ashland's rich theater scene and arts culture while surrounded by natural beauty in Oregon this summer.

Travelers planning a summer vacation in the Pacific Northwest need look no further! The region is brimming with charming towns that offer unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local cultures.

From the sun-drenched trails and breweries of Bend, Oregon , and the Bavarian allure of Leavenworth, one of Washington's prettiest winter towns that also comes alive in the summer, to the cultural richness of Ashland with its renowned Shakespeare Festival and the thrilling outdoor activities in Hood River, some of the most underrated but scenic places in the Pacific Northwest are in the region's cool little towns.

Each town has its own distinct charm and history, making the PNW area ideal for summer exploration. Whether travelers are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local art and history, these cool towns in the Pacific Northwest promise unforgettable summer memories.

Forget The 7 Wonders Of The World, Check Out 7 Wonders Of Oregon

10 bend, oregon, bend is known for its vibrant outdoor culture, extensive craft breweries, and scenic landscapes.

Originally a logging town established in the early 1900s, Bend, Oregon, has been transformed into a hub for outdoor recreation and tourism. Today, travelers flock to Bend for its abundant outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and river rafting along the Deschutes River.

The town boasts a lively arts scene, numerous craft breweries, and a vibrant downtown, making it a cool summer destination to experience the region's natural beauty and laid-back vibe. With the Cascade Mountains as its backdrop, Bend offers adventure seekers an ideal summer getaway.

9 Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth's bavarian-themed architecture and alpine setting make it a unique summer destination..

Once a struggling logging and rail town, Leavenworth, Washington, reinvented itself as a charming Bavarian village in the 1960s to boost tourism. Today, travelers are drawn to Leavenworth's authentic German-style buildings, lively festivals, and abundant outdoor adventures.

Visitors can explore the Bavarian-themed shops and restaurants, or enjoy hiking, river rafting, and zip-lining amid the stunning Cascade Mountains. With its unique blend of Old World charm and outdoor thrills, Leavenworth promises an unforgettable summer escape bursting with mountain scenery, German culture, and adventurous spirit.

8 Ashland, Oregon

Ashland is famous for its cultural events, particularly the oregon shakespeare festival.

Founded in the mid-19th century as a milling town, Ashland, Oregon, has blossomed into a cultural hotspot thanks to its thriving theater community. Today, travelers are drawn to Ashland for its vibrant arts scene, highlighted by the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Visitors can immerse themselves in top-notch theatrical productions, explore eclectic galleries, and savor the town's buzzing culinary offerings. With its lively summer calendar of festivals and events, Ashland offers a delightful escape for culture vultures seeking a dose of sophistication amid stunning natural surroundings.

Exploring The 10 Best Oregon Attractions For Unforgettable Adventures

7 hood river, oregon, hood river is a paradise for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts due to its steady columbia river gorge winds.

Hood River, Oregon, initially an agricultural town renowned for its fruit orchards, has evolved into a famous destination for water sports enthusiasts. Today, it is a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding, attracting adventurers from all over.

The town also boasts excellent hiking and biking trails, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This summer, Hood River offers a perfect blend of thrilling sports and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all ages seeking adventure and relaxation.

6 Port Townsend, Washington

This victorian seaport town offers a mix of historical charm, maritime activities, and artistic events.

Founded in 1851 as a bustling seaport, Port Townsend, Washington, was once renowned for its grand Victorian buildings. Nowadays, this charming town delights history buffs, art lovers, and sailors alike with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, thriving arts community, and picturesque waterfront.

Visitors can explore enchanting museums, browse eclectic galleries, or simply relax by the water while watching local boat traffic. With a lively calendar of festivals and events throughout the summer, Port Townsend offers a delightful escape into the past coupled with modern-day cultural vibrancy, making it an upbeat destination for travelers of all ages seeking a taste of Pacific Northwest history and seaside charm.

5 Cannon Beach, Oregon

The town of cannon beach is known for its stunning coastal scenery, including the iconic haystack rock.

Established as a resort town in the early 20th century catering to the wealthy, Cannon Beach, Oregon, has evolved into a beloved seaside getaway with tons of fun activities for all. Today, travelers are drawn to its dramatic rocky shoreline, eclectic art galleries, and charming downtown brimming with boutiques and eateries.

Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, build sandcastles on the expansive beach, or simply bask in the town's laid-back coastal vibe. With its breathtaking natural scenery, vibrant arts community, and family-friendly activities, Cannon Beach offers an upbeat summer escape for travelers of all ages and budgets seeking an authentic Oregon coast experience.

4 Winthrop, Washington

Winthrop's wild west-themed downtown and proximity to north cascades national park make it a unique summer destination.

Established during the 19th-century gold rush, Winthrop, Washington, has carefully preserved its rich Western heritage. In modern times, this authentic Old West town charms visitors with its wooden boardwalks, frontier-style buildings, and annual '49er Days festival celebrating its mining roots.

Beyond the historical charm here, Winthrop offers abundant outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding in the surrounding Methow Valley. The town also offers a lively summer events calendar, friendly locals, and stunning natural scenery, promising an upbeat getaway for all ages to step back in time while creating new memories. Although no major fortunes emerged, the town's Wild West spirit endures.

7 Underrated Cities In Washington That Have Seattle Vibes, But Better

3 astoria, oregon, astoria is rich in maritime history and offers beautiful views of the columbia river and pacific ocean.

Founded in 1811, Astoria, Oregon, is steeped in history as the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains and a key fur trading post. However, the area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes like the Clatsop and Chinook people.

These days, Astoria enchants visitors with its beautifully preserved historical sites, lively arts community, and stunning views of the mighty Columbia River meeting the Pacific Ocean. From exploring Lewis and Clark interpretive centers to attending lively festivals, this vibrant coastal town offers myriad opportunities to immerse oneself in Oregon's rich cultural tapestry.

With plentiful outdoor recreation, museums, and scenic vistas, Astoria is the perfect Oregon trip for first-time visitors to the state in the summer, where they can come and discover its captivating past and present.

2 Friday Harbor, Washington

Located in the san juan islands, friday harbor is a picturesque town perfect for whale watching and exploring the outdoors.

Established in the late 19th century as a humble fishing and farming community, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island has blossomed into a delightful tourist destination. Today, this quaint maritime town charms visitors with its abundance of water activities like whale watching, kayaking, and sailing through all the scenic San Juan Islands.

Travelers are also drawn to Friday Harbor's lively arts scene, featuring galleries, theaters, and the delightful Outdoor Sculpture Park. With its picturesque harbors, access to hiking trails, and a funky downtown brimming with local shops and eateries, Friday Harbor offers an upbeat summer escape for all ages.

Fun fact: San Juan Island has no stoplights, lending an unhurried pace to this tranquil Pacific Northwest getaway.

1 Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham combines outdoor adventure with a vibrant cultural scene, nestled between puget sound and the cascade mountains.

Founded in the mid-19th century as a hub for coal mining and timber, Bellingham, Washington, has reinvented itself as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with a vibrant artistic community. Travelers flock to this waterfront city for its easy access to hiking, biking, and water sports coupled with a thriving craft brewery and culinary scene.

With a view of Canada just across the bay, Bellingham also offers a taste of international flair. Unofficially dubbed the "City of Subdued Excitement," it also hosts live comedy shows featuring local talent. From active adventures to cultural attractions, Bellingham provides a fun summer getaway for all ages.

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.

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

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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A complete guide to Oregon’s famous Waterfall Corridor in the Columbia River Gorge

• Updated: Jun. 03, 2024, 5:07 p.m. |
• Published: Jun. 01, 2024, 6:00 a.m.

Horsetail Falls plunges into a pool on the side of the Historic Columbia River Highway in the Columbia River Gorge. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

• Jamie Hale | The Oregonian/OregonLive

If you want waterfalls, this is the place .

The Waterfall Corridor of the Columbia River Gorge, an 8.5-mile stretch along the Historic Columbia River Highway that’s home to more than a dozen waterfalls, is one of the most popular destinations in the region for good reason. Aside from the beautiful plunges, the corridor boasts sweeping views and forested trails that visitors could explore for days.

The corridor includes Multnomah Falls, one of the best and biggest natural attractions in Oregon, as well as the gems of Triple Falls, Horsetail Falls and Latourell Falls. Approaching from the west, as those from Portland often do , takes you past the Vista House and the Portland Women’s Forum viewpoint, home to two of the best views in the Columbia Gorge.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

While the waterfalls can be seen year-round (and are probably at their peak in spring, fed by snowmelt and rain), the big crowds typically show up around Memorial Day, when the clouds typically part and the temperature often rises high enough for visitors to shed their extra layers. Summer is time for major traffic jams in the Waterfall Corridor, as parking lots fill up and cars spill out onto the historic highway.

Summer is also when the U.S. Forest Service begins its timed entry permit system at Multnomah Falls (in effect May 24 to Sept. 2 in 2024), which requires all vehicles parking in the Interstate 84 lot to purchase a $2 permit in advance — an effort to curb the crowds.

If you’re hoping to avoid traffic jams, summer weekends are not the time to visit. Instead, try weekdays or anytime in the off-season.

In recent years, public officials and private companies have joined forces to offer alternative ways to see the Waterfall Corridor. Today, visitors can take a private tour or use public transportation to get to the area.

Whenever or however you get there, the Waterfall Corridor lives up to the hype. There are few places like this in the Pacific Northwest, where you can see so many spectacular sights in such a short distance. Any one of these waterfalls would be the main attraction on its own; here, they all add up to one spectacular natural getaway.

A trail leads to the base of Latourell Falls, just off the Historic Columbia River Highway. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

LATOURELL FALLS

You’ll find a couple of great views of the 224-foot Latourell Falls just a short walk from the trailhead parking lot, but hikers can also tackle the moderate 2.4-mile Latourell Falls loop hike , which leads to the shorter Upper Latourell Falls before looping back around to the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Shepperd’s Dell Falls plunges into a pool beneath a bridge on the Historic Columbia River Highway. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

SHEPPERDS DELL FALLS

The second major waterfall in the Waterfall Corridor, Shepperds Dell Falls cascades down eight drops totaling 220 feet below the Historic Columbia River Highway. Park at a pullout on either side of the highway just across the Young Creek bridge, then begin down a set of stairs for an overhead look at the waterfall. At the bottom of the steps, a short pathway curls around to the upper tier of the falls.

Bridal Veil Falls, seen from a viewing platform at the end of a short trai. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

BRIDAL VEIL FALLS

The only waterfall in the corridor found below the Historic Columbia River Highway, Bridal Veil Falls is a beautiful 118-foot plunge found at the end of a short, moderately easy hike. A trail leads about a third of a mile to a waterfall viewpoint, with an optional side trail and loop that add up to a 1.4-mile hike .

Hikers stop to look at an upper viewpoint at Wahkeena Falls. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

WAHKEENA FALLS

While overshadowed by neighboring Multnomah Falls, the powerful Wahkeena Falls is definitely worth a visit. Measuring 258 feet over two drops, the waterfall is found about a half mile up a moderately easy paved trail, with a viewpoint in the face of the spray. You can keep hiking another three-tenths of a mile to reach the pretty little Fairy Falls , or complete the five-mile loop hike to Multnomah Falls and back.

Water gushes at Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Mark Graves/The Oregonian

MULTNOMAH FALLS

The crown jewel of the Waterfall Corridor, Multnomah Falls is also the tallest waterfall in Oregon at 632 feet tall. Most visitors who want to see the towering attraction will want to leave the Historic Columbia River Highway for Interstate 84 to access the main parking lot (where $2 parking permits are required between May 24 and Sept. 2). A private parking lot on the historic highway has room for about 40 cars, but parking there could cost you upwards of $20 . Sasquatch Shuttle, which owns that parking lot, also runs a shuttle service to Multnomah Falls from a larger parking lot in Bridal Veil.

Those up for a hike can continue uphill from the main Multnomah Falls viewpoint and across Benson Bridge to the Larch Mountain Trail, which heads uphill to several more waterfalls, including little Dutchman Falls , beautiful Wiesendanger Falls and Ecola Falls , which is only safely seen from above. You can also keep going to complete the five-mile loop hike to Wahkeena Falls and back.

Light snow covers Triple Falls along Oneonta Creek. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

TRIPLE FALLS

A beautiful branching waterfall, Triple Falls pours off the rocky cliffs of the Columbia Gorge in an area that was badly burned by the Eagle Creek fire in 2017. The stark scenery that remains can be haunting, but the waterfall itself is a stunner, falling 64 feet in three distinct channels. You can get there on a moderately difficult 3.6-mile hike from the Oneonta Trailhead. On the way, you can branch off onto the Horsetail Falls Trail for a quick bridge-side view of the 24-foot Middle Oneonta Falls .

Ponytail Falls is found up a short trail from Horsetail Falls. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

HORSETAIL FALLS

The final attraction in the Waterfall Corridor is Horsetail Falls , a lovely 216-foot plunge that’s visible from the side of the Historic Columbia River Highway. Pull off at the Horsetail Falls Trailhead, where you can get an easy look at the waterfall or hike up to the 82-foot Ponytail Falls (also known as Upper Horsetail Falls), which is found less than half a mile away .

MORE WATERFALLS

There are several other waterfalls in the Waterfall Corridor that, for various reasons, are not easily accessed or seen. Chief among them is Oneonta Falls , once a popular destination that required wading along Oneonta Gorge but which has been closed since 2017. Impressive plunges such as Mist Falls and Dalton Falls do not have easy access points, while Coopey Falls is on land owned by the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist , though it can also be seen from above on the Angels Rest Trail .

It’s also worth noting that many more waterfalls are found throughout the Columbia River Gorge, including in a nearby stretch that includes Elowah Falls , Wahclella Falls , the many incredible plunges along the Eagle Creek Trail and Dry Creek Falls near Cascade Locks. There are also several waterfall viewpoints around Starvation Creek on the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, and even more plunges on the Washington side of the river.

-- Jamie Hale covers travel and the outdoors and co-hosts the Peak Northwest podcast . Reach him at 503-294-4077, [email protected] or @HaleJamesB .

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How to plan your summer vacation to South Carolina’s Sea Islands

Jun 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Plan the perfect summer vacation in the Sea Islands with this step-by-step guide © Raquel Lonas / Getty Images

Amid inland  South Carolina 's year-round bliss – in  Charleston , Columbia and Greenville – the state’s shoreline particularly pops come summertime.

South of Myrtle Beach and stretching to the Georgia state line where Savannah awaits, you’ll find South Carolina's Sea Islands, a stretch of islands each with their own unique ambiance and summer flair.

Your options include the family-friendly and golf haven of Hilton Head, the historic downtown of Beaufort and more secluded options for bird-watching and fishing galore. As you finalize your Palmetto State summer itinerary, there are some key logistical must-knows to truly soak it all in. Here’s the scoop on South Carolina's Sea Islands.

First time in South Carolina? Here's everything you need to know before you go

Step 1: Pick a home base

Hilton head island.

Vibes: Consider this your island destination for staying occupied yet tranquil. Hilton Head is renowned for white-sand bliss, a small-town core and big-time resorts. This is the best option for a family vacation, too, with plenty of quirky activities spanning zip-lining its marshes to an extensive go-kart track, all of which you can find at Adventure Hilton Head  and other island spots.

Do: Hilton Head is a golfing destination with nearly 30 courses island-wide. Sea Pines Resort is a top pick, with three courses within its confines, including Harbour Town, which hosts the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament. Otherwise, plop on a beach – Coligny Beach is fully equipped with restrooms, gazebos and benches for a seamless experience.

Stay: The Sweetgrass Inn at Hilton Head Health puts wellness front and center with daily health retreats, nutrition workshops and, for longer stays, a weight loss track, if desired. Beach House is laid-back, with an on-site tiki hut and recently renovated pool.

Eat: Hit Skull Creek Boathouse for a sunset and, within its on-site Dive Bar space, fresh sushi selections. Nectar Farm Kitchen has southern coastal fare down to an art, with sweet potato pancakes and hearty-portioned chicken and waffles.

Folly Beach

Vibes: A 20-minute drive south of Charleston, this is where residents of “the Holy City” head to unwind in the summer. The southern hospitality and general friendliness of Charleston oozes into its beachy neighbor, where locals trade in their bowties and pastel dresses for swim trunks and swimsuits. Its ocean’s edge is dotted with surf shops – like McKevlin’s and Ocean Surf Shop – with a spot known as the Washout being where veteran surfers flock for swells.

Do: For surfing newbies, take a lesson with local mainstays like Isla Surf School or Shaka Surf School , the latter of which hosts kids' summer camps and a Saturday surf and yoga class for women. Folly Beach has a unique saltwater creek and coastal marsh landscape – you can learn all about it and hunt for some shark teeth along the way with a Charleston Outdoor Adventures eco tour .

Stay: For views, each room at the Tides Folly Beach comes with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Its on-site BLU Beach Bar & Grill has a tiki bar and one-of-a-kind vistas of the Folly Beach Pier which juts into the ocean next door. Regatta Inn is the island’s luxe bed-and-breakfast option, with a daily breakfast spread and golf cart shuttle to the beach.

Eat: Folly Beach is loaded with beach bars with fare and booze that run the full spectrum of no-frills to fancy. Lowlife Bar has a daily brunch from 10am to 3pm with a memorable Maryland-style crab cake, chicken and waffles and a pimento cheese plate. Three blocks off the beach, Jack of Cup Saloons serves up craft brews and sake with a variety of Indian and Asian-inspired dishes.

Edisto Island

Vibes: Approximately 50 miles southeast of Charleston, this island is dotted with beachside rentals on stilts, stately plantation abodes and stunning beaches. This is a more relaxed vibe compared to Hilton Head or Folly Beach, with plenty of quirky entertaining things to keep you occupied. An example – and not for the faint of heart – is the Edisto Island Serpentarium , with habitats for a variety of snakes, alligators and turtles.

Do: Edisto Beach State Park is arguably the hot spot for collecting shells in the state. Botany Bay is a marshy, bird-watching paradise where shorebirds, wild turkeys and egrets abound. This is a quiet spot for a sunset cruise, too, with Botany Bay Ecotours being a go-to operator.

Stay: Vacation rentals are the norm here. A conglomerate of rentals owned by Wyndham on the southwestern tip of the island offers the most options in a singular place. For golfers, there is a course – the Plantation Course – in the middle of the complex.

Eat: Cute and homegrown are the general culinary vibes on the island. McConkey’s Jungle Shack serves up wings, burgers, wild rum punch concoctions and a famed local sweet tea. Sea Cow Eatery is an intimate diner that’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (minus Monday when it closes at 2pm). Regardless of what time of day it is, keep an eye on its ever-changing homemade pie selections.

Step 2: Book your accommodations

Vacation rentals abound along South Carolina’s coast. In general, individual owners or operating entities open up summer reservations either a year in advance or six months in advance, though it may vary. VRBO, AirBnb and HomeToGo are statewide favorites for rentals. Additionally, you may want to check the state’s tourism website for additional sanctioned options as well as local chambers of commerce.

Across the board on South Carolina’s sea islands, there are options for plopping it at a resort, within a vacation home or at a bed and breakfast and making memories solely on-property. If you’re looking to keep antsy guests or kids occupied, Hilton Head boasts the most things to do. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is perhaps the best of all worlds – quietly tucked on the northern edge of the island, exuding a casual vibe with a water slide and within minutes of shopping at Shelter Cove Harbour .

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Step 3: Plan your days

Hilton Head is considered a fishing utopia, where spot-tailed trout, flounder, grouper and even sharks abound. Hilton Head is one of the largest breeding grounds for sharks on the East Coast and, yes, you can fish for them, too. You’ll need to charter a fishing boat – ideally with a captain, too, to make it seamless – and for that FishingBooker is trusted and up-to-date.

Beyond the islands, three city visits may be easily pinned to any South Carolina sea islands itinerary. Savannah, Georgia is within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head Island – saunters through its brick public squares and along its boutique-filled main drag, Broughton Street, are musts. Charleston – closest to Folly Beach – is a cobblestone street wonderland, with a waterfront park overlooking Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter making for a city-meets-tranquil reprieve. Beaufort – located between Hilton Head and Edisto – is on Port Royal Island and has a historic district worthy of a day trip. Its museum selections span the quirky (check out  the Kazoobie Kazoo Factory ) to the reflective – the Beaufort History Museum showcases more than 500 years of history with exhibits on plantation culture, the Spanish American War and more.

Step 4: Choose the best places to eat in South Carolina’s Sea Islands

In Hilton Head, the blue crab reigns supreme – crack some at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks , with vistas of Port Royal Sound and periodic live music. Otherwise, fresh seafood is the way to go along the coast with shrimp and grits, a lowcountry boil and seafood salad being menu norms.

The island towns are also home to some memorable mom-and-pop grocery stores with curated, South Carolina-bred items. Bert’s Market on Folly Beach has it all; stop by for pimento cheese, boiled peanuts and a visit to the deli counter. Palmetto Dunes General Store on Hilton Head Island is a haven for fresh fried chicken and soft-serve ice cream, among other grocery staples.

Step 5: Getting there

Two international airports generally serve as home bases for journeys to these parts. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head and more remote adventures in Daufuskie Island. Charleston International Airport is within 30 minutes of Folly Beach and approximately 2 hours north of Hilton Head. Hilton Head Island Airport also offers select domestic flights.

For train travel, Amtrak has a major station in Charleston, with a smaller operation in Yemassee, South Carolina – a taxi ride from the train station to the islands is the seamless option from there.

Step 6: What to pack

Check ahead of time to see what your hotel and/or vacation rental supplies in terms of beach items – they can vary drastically. Depending on what is provided and how much you’d like to pack, it may be wise to bring a cooler, snorkeling gear, goggles, water sports gear and water floats with you. Otherwise, during the summer months, count on using sunscreen, sunglasses, sun protective clothing, sandals and – in swampy areas – insect repellant, daily. Fortunately in the home bases we’ve outlined in (Step 1), souvenir shops sell all of the aforementioned, but count on paying a premium.

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Preserving paradise: USC students learn about sustainable hospitality in the Galápagos

The Galápagos Islands: the name alone conjures images of tropical beauty and natural treasures. Spanish Captain Diego de Rivadeneira called them "Las Islas Encantadas" on his first visit in 1546, and that nickname lingers still. Charles Darwin's studies there in 1835 played a big part in the development of his theory of evolution. Now, University of South Carolina students follow in his scholarly footsteps.

Through a partnership with USC's Education Abroad Office and the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management students have a variety of opportunities to live and learn in one of the most exclusive tourism and natural heritage destinations in the world. Semester-long experiences are available as well as three-week Maymester excursions.

This May, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management Instructor Kevin Ayres led an Economically Sustainable Hospitality Operations class, exploring the challenges of keeping hospitality and tourism businesses sustainable while remaining profitable.

Ayres and USFQ Professor Paola Torres led the students on visits to three businesses on the trip, beginning with Hotel Indigo, an IHG property on San Cristóbal Island. The class met with the hotel management team and took a full tour of the operation. Each student then wrote a paper with recommendations for possible improvements in hotel operations with a focus on sustainability.

The second visit was to the Metropolitan Cruise Lines expedition ship La Pinta. There too, the students observed and asked questions while touring and meeting with the crew. They also wrote papers with operations suggestions.

"We learned about sustainability and the huge difference between learning about sustainability in Columbia, South Carolina, versus learning about sustainability in the Galápagos," said Ava Jackson, a retailing student who took the class to conclude her freshman year.

The last business visit was to Ranti Coffee. "It’s a Galápagos-only company. They have their own tree, roasting room and showroom, all on San Cristóbal," Ayres says. The students took a close look at every part of the operation, again discussing and questioning and offering their suggestions for operational improvements.

The hospitality and tourism industry is by far the largest economic driver in the Galápagos, employing 40 percent of residents. With 97 percent of the islands set aside as a national park, it is an ideal setting for studying sustainable hospitality and tourism, a topic of critical importance in South Carolina. USC’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management has produced many of the current leaders of those industries, and the next generation is learning through experiences like these.

Study abroad experiences are not all work, of course. Students also have a chance to explore new cultures, meet new people, and have a lot of fun.

"My favorite part of the trip was getting to stay with my host family," Jackson says, adding that she joined the family in attending a soccer game while there. "Being able to stay with them gave me the opportunity to see San Cristóbal through the eyes of locals. This is something I wouldn’t have gotten to experience if I wasn’t able to stay with a host family. I appreciate USC setting me up with such a caring family."

As all USC trips do, the most recent Maymester excursion offered many chances for students to explore, including nature hikes, snorkeling at spots including the world-famous Kicker Rock, scuba diving (students can earn certification through USC, and College of HRSM professor and certified instructor Richard Southall teaches a class on sustainability, eco-tourism, and the diving industry in the Galápagos) and of course plenty of time to enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Asked what will stick with her in the future, Jackson says, "How amazing our world is. We had opportunities to see such a variety of animals (marine iguanas, Galápagos tortoises, blue footed boobies) that only exist in the Galápagos. I also learned from the other classes, it was truly a multidisciplinary program."

For those unsure whether to study abroad, Jackson's advice is simple and emphatic: "Do it, take in every experience you can. It’s something you’ll look back on the rest of your life and be so grateful that you did. You get to meet so many people that you wouldn’t have without studying abroad and seeing the world. Totally immerse yourself, go on all of the excursions. You will have experiences and memories that you will treasure. I learned so much and had a blast!"

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.