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23 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Colombia

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.

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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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13 of the best places in Colombia to soak up salsa, sunshine and more

Feb 11, 2024 • 9 min read

Colombia is famed for its magnificent landscapes and its energetic cities, filled with street murals and Latin culture © Kris Davidson / Lonely Planet

If you have any preconceptions about Colombia , leave them at home. This remarkable country will take you by surprise.

The second-most biodiverse nation in the world harbors vast swaths of wildlife-rich Amazon jungle in its interior, while coral-white beaches, dizzying mountains and leafy highland coffee plantations crown Colombia as a place of extraordinary natural contrasts. 

But this thrilling corner of South America is much more than the sum of its natural parts. Its kinetic cities buzz with an upbeat energy that sets Colombia apart from most of the continent, proving that this once-troubled country has well and truly shed its history of conflict. 

With adventure and infectious beats around practically every corner, picking the best places to visit in the country can be a challenge. However, thanks to plentiful domestic flights and long-distance buses , Colombia is a place where it's easy to cover plenty of ground, even on a short trip.

To help you with the planning, here are the best places to visit in Colombia.

1. Cartagena

Best for architecture and atmosphere

At the top of most travelers' bucket lists for Colombia is the sultry city of Cartagena , and it's easy to see why. The stately old town is a magical walled complex of bougainvillea-slung cobblestone streets and shady squares where local performers shake, stamp and twirl, the living embodiment of the city's famous energy.

Absorbing the atmosphere of Cartagena can be as spirited – or as languid – as you choose. Laze the day away on Playa de Bocagrande or sit down to long, leisurely lunches of sharp coconut ceviche at a family-run restaurant. At night, indulge in a sundowner on a rooftop bar and sample the energetic vibe of the city's bars and clubs.

Planning tip: The heart of Cartagena – comprising the historical districts of El Centro and San Diego within the city walls – is best explored on foot so you can soak up the atmosphere.

2. The Amazon jungle

Best for wildlife encounters

Colombia lays claim to an extraordinary glut of flora and fauna that should place it on any wildlife lover's must-see list. While it covers a third of Colombia's territory, the Amazon jungle can be tricky to access, yet it remains the prime location for encountering tropical wildlife in vast swaths of untouched rainforest.

Book a tour into the rainforest from the remote outpost of Leticia and spend a couple of nights exploring one of the globe's wildest places. Boat trips putter along the Río Amazonas, and remote trails across the forest floor promise encounters with inquisitive pink river dolphins, sluggish sloths and a cacophony of howler monkeys.

3. Zona Cafetera

Best for coffee lovers

If there's one thing that keeps Colombia running, it's coffee. Find out what all the fuss is about by exploring the Zona Cafetera , Colombia's coffee heartland. Filling the lush hillsides of the departments of Risaralda, Caldas and Quindío are green plantations growing Colombia's magic arabica beans. Many family-run fincas (farms) have opened their doors to curious tourists, with day tours and overnight stays offering a deep dive into coffee culture.

Planning tip: Organize your transport to coffee country from the regional hubs of Manizales and Pereira .

4. Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Best for combining nature and beaches

Home to palm-lined tropical beaches and secluded coves, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is one of Colombia's natural jewels. Set on the Caribbean coastline east of Santa Marta , this national park is a paradise of relaxation against the dramatic backdrop of the looming Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.

Chilling on sun-soaked beaches or ambling along the jungle trails that edge the coastline are the flavor of the day here, as water currents at most beaches are too dangerous for swimming. To avoid the crowds, head by speedboat to Playa Cristal , an isolated island with pristine waters and gleaming beaches.

Planning tip: Time your visit to Tayrona outside of January or February, when the park typically closes for maintenance. And consider tacking on a visit to  Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados  in the Zona Cafetera, as part of  an ambitious four-day itinerary . 

5. Medellín

Best for street art

Once the stronghold of Colombia's most infamous drug lord, Pablo Escobar, modern Medellín is a city reborn. Backpackers will find fun in the city's plethora of hip music venues, while travelers seeking a more sophisticated stay can enjoy well-heeled neighborhoods that court visitors with shady restaurant terraces and slick bars. Known for its perennially spring-like climate, Medellín holds a boundless appeal, making it one of the best cities to visit if you're short on time, and it's also a gateway to the Zona Cafetera. 

For art lovers, the imprint of Colombian heavyweight, Fernando Botero, is visible throughout the city, with his emblematic, engorged statues adding humor to rowdy market squares. To get deeper under the city's skin, visit the urban regeneration projects at Comuna 13 and Moravia to see how street art and innovative forms of transport are injecting life into formerly down-at-heel neighborhoods.

Planning tip: For a change of pace, a ride on a modern cable car will spirit you up and out of the valley into Parque Arví , a nature reserve with pre-Hispanic trails through forests adorned with orchids.

6. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

Best for archaeological adventures

For a tantalizing glimpse into the past, head to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta , a mountain range that slices across the northeast of Colombia. After a tough three-day hike through thick jungle, you'll reach Colombia's finest archaeological site, La Ciudad Perdida .

The stone terraces of this once-crowded city were built around 850 CE along a steep-sided ridge, and the site was only reclaimed from the jungle in the 1970s. Accessible only on a tour, La Ciudad Perdida remains remote, untouched and blissfully free of tourists.

Planning tip: Book tours to La Ciudad Perdida through agencies such as Expotur in Santa Marta.

7. La Guajira Peninsula

Best for learning about Indigenous culture

Wild expanses of desert sit alongside the splendid blue of the Caribbean Sea in one of Colombia's most remote and unique corners. The Indigenous Wayuu people who call the Guajira Peninsula  home have defied invaders throughout history, and still live here in secluded villages, following their own unique rhythms.

Planning tip: To appreciate the dazzling wildness of Colombia's northernmost point, you'll need to organize a tour from Riohacha. Aim to spend at least one night on the peninsula and head out to Playa Taroa – often touted as Colombia's most beautiful beach – where sand dunes empty of visitors slide straight into the glistening sea.

Best for party people

Few places in South America love to party as much as Cali , Colombia's buzzing capital of salsa. The city's addiction to rhythm is infectious, and a visit to Cali will see you glued to the dance floor until dawn. Polish your moves at one of the many dance schools before hitting the dance floor with the locals in Zaperoco , a standout salsa club.

Planning tip: For the most iconic – and explosive – introduction to Cali's obsession with salsa, get your hands on a ticket to Delirio , a salsa and cabaret showcase of epic proportions. It takes place on the final Friday of every month.

Best for museums and culture

Rainy and cold thanks to its lofty perch in the Andes Mountains, Bogotá might feel like a mere jumping-off point for Colombia's more temperate destinations. Yet those who give it a chance will find the capital city a place with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a rich array of museums.

Gourmet dining rubs shoulders with rowdy nightlife in the city's increasingly trendy neighborhoods of Zona Rosa and Chapinero. But for a more sedate and educational visit, spend a day marveling at the tremendous riches on display in the Museo de Oro , one of the continent's finest collections of pre-Hispanic metallurgy. Another highlight is the Museo Botero , which comprises a significant collection of modern and Impressionist art, including 123 pieces by Botero himself.

10. Providencia

Best for an island escape

Situated some 1240km (770 miles) north of Colombia in the balmy waters of the Caribbean Sea, the idyllic island of Providencia is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Picture-perfect, golden-sand beaches – often practically devoid of visitors – and a laid-back atmosphere are all part of the appeal of this remote and sun-kissed patch of paradise.

Divers can splash into crystal clear waters alongside huge stingrays, turtles and reef sharks along a 32km (20-mile) stretch of the world's third-largest barrier reef. If you prefer to keep your head above water, blond sands, beachside restaurants and 25ºC (77ºF) water temperatures will more than cater to your needs.

11. Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena

Best for natural spectacles

Due south of Bogotá, Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena is one of the most incredible places to visit in Colombia. Just a short drive from the town of La Macarena, Caño Cristales is a river that runs vivid pink. Dubbed the "liquid rainbow," this remarkable stretch of water gains its rhubarb hue from the riverweed that grows here between July and October. Pack a bathing suit – you can swim in designated areas of the river. 

Planning tip: Caño Cristales only became accessible to visitors in 2010 as it lay in formerly FARC-occupied territory, but it has become a victim of its own loveliness. Visitor numbers are now capped at 200 per day, and you'll need to book your ticket with a local tour operator in advance.

12. San Gil

Best for thrill-seekers

Adrenaline junkies should look no further than Colombia's capital of adventure, San Gil . Water sports are one of the main draws here, with white-water rafting or hydrospeed tours buffeting you through scenic canyons along Class I to Class V rapids.

If you're keen to get off the ground, abseiling excursions down gushing waterfalls, paragliding over rugged mountain peaks and bungee jumping will get adrenaline levels soaring. Caving, mountain biking and canyoning are more popular activities. 

13. Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín

Best for lost kingdom vibes

In the far southwestern department of Huila lies Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín . This remarkable place comprises a network of ceremonial sites and burial grounds dotted with fantastical stone statues whose semi-human faces grin through fanged mouths with dizzyingly wide eyes. While their purpose remains largely a mystery to archaeologists, many believe the area to have been a place of pilgrimage and ancestor worship built more than 2000 years ago.

Planning tip: The archaeological park sits 2.5km (1.6 miles) from the town of San Agustín; colectivos (shared vans) run out to the park gates. Pick up a local guide at the entrance to learn more as you explore the site.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated February 2024

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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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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.

6. Bogotá

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 .

8. Popayán

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.

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

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

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

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Wander-Lush

29 Unforgettable Things to Do in Colombia in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

29 of the best things to do in Colombia this year

Explore cartagena’s colonial old town.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Leo from Safari Nomad

→ Recommended: Private city walking tour of Cartagena

Tour a Colombian coffee plantation in Eje Cafetero

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Leyla from Women on the Road

→ Recommended: Half-day coffee plantation tour from Medellin

Walk amongst the wax palms in the Cocora Valley

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

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

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

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

→ Recommended: Cocora, Salento and Filandia Tour

Climb El Penol in Guatape

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Cynthia from ​​Sharing the Wander

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

Witness Colombia’s transformation on a tour of Comuna 13

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

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

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

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

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

→ Recommended: Comuna 13 graffiti and street food tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step back in time in charming Jerico

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summit Monserrate for the best views of Bogota

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

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

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

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

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

By Sean from Living Out Lau

→ Recommended: Monserrate and La Candelaria private tour

Get back to nature in Tayrona National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Hike to Ciudad Perdida, Colombia’s Lost City

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

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

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

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

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

By Roshni from TopTreehouses.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Adam from CartagenaExplorer.com

→ Recommended: Catamaran excursion to the Rosario Islands

Walk underwater on San Andres

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Katie From KatieCafTravel.com

→ Recommended: Aquanautas Helmet Diving in San Andres

Explore the Forest of Statues in San Agustin Archaeological Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By ​​Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Attend Feria de Cali, Colombia’s premier salsa festival

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

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

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

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

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

By Maddalena from Venice Travel Tips

Take a street art tour in Cartagena’s Getsemani

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

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

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

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

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

By Vanessa from Wanders Miles

→ Recommended: Graffiti tour in Getsemani

Learn how to make empanadas at a Colombian cooking class

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

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

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

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

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

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

→ Recommended: Bazurto Market tour and cooking class in Cartagena

Eat tropical fruits at the markets in Medellin

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

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

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

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

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

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

→ Recommended: Medellin exotic fruits tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

By JB from Will Fly for Food

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Melinda from Mel On The Go

→ Recommended: Private transfer to Andres in Chia from Bogota

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Babs from Mums on Flip Flops

→ Recommended: Villa de Leyva day trip from Bogota

Tour the incredible Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

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

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

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

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

By Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

→ Recommended: Group tour to Zipaquira with guaranteed daily departure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel

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

Conquer the Paramillo del Quindio in Los Nevados National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Nina from Where in the World is Nina?

Count the colours at the Caño Cristales ‘Rainbow River’

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

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

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

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

Have a wildlife encounter at the National Colombian Aviary in Baru

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Ines from Randomtrip

Get off the beaten track in the otherworldly Tatacoa Desert

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dan from Urban Abroad

→ Recommended: Private tour to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogota

Stand at the edge of the continent at Punta Gallinas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Colombia trip essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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29 breath-taking places to go in Colombia: The Ultimate Bucketlist

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

You know when people say “Uhh Colombia’s amaaaazing, it just has everythinnggggg”. Well, I’m here to bloody well prove it. I’ve painstakingly compiled all of my top entries for an ultimate Colombia bucketlist – all of the best places to go in Colombia that are well and truly worth your time. Of course, this still only just scratches the surface of what the country has to offer, but I commend anyone who’s managed to tick all of these off – I haven’t even after 9 months!

There are plenty of Colombia must-sees that everyone goes to by default (the blue markers on the above map), but also other tourist attractions in Colombia that people haven’t really heard of as often, or aren’t feeling adventurous enough to make a more arduous journey to (orange). THEN there are the truly off the beaten path places to go in Colombia, which I’ve left for the end (purple). Put in the effort and thou shalt be rewarded!

After this ultimate bucketlist of places to go in Colombia, you may also enjoy reading:

• The cost of living in Colombia
• Best weekend breaks & day-trips from Bogotá
• If we only had 2 weeks: Colombia itinerary

The Colombia must-sees

Piedra el peñol, guatapé.

One of those places to go in Colombia that you have to see to believe. La Piedra, or the rock, is just a short bus ride away from the incredibly vibrant town of Guatapé , and climbing the 659 steps of this crazy landmark will get you views of the insane man-made Guatapé Lake. Visiting the town and rock is a Medellín day trip you cannot allow yourself to miss!

Comuna 13, Medellín

Probably the most well-known neighbourhood in all of the land, Comuna 13 (‘ Comuna Trece ’ in Spanish) is an impoverished barrio that holds a painful history of cartel violence and lawlessness. However, what brings visitors here in droves is the story of how it pulled itself out from the rubble and became one of Medellín’s star children in demonstrating how providing the right socio-economic support to a community can turn everything around.

That being said, still please make sure you get a tour through Comuna 13 and don’t just turn up on your own to have a wander.

Guatavita Lake

An easy day trip from Bogotá, Lake Guatavita holds centuries of secrets in its emerald waters.

Nestled in a crater-like valley, Lake Guatavita was supposedly used by the indigenous Muisca people to perform ceremonies involving throwing gold and other treasures into the depths. When the Spanish heard this, they started work on what is now known as the Legend of El Dorado.

Villa de Leyva

One of the best places to go in Colombia to see all the beauty of colonial architecture whilst still keeping a finger on the pulse of its pre-Spanish history. Villa de Leyva is the region of Boyacá’s most famous ‘white town’, revered for its quaint cobbled streets and humongous plaza.

All around the town, you’ll find a huge list of things to go and explore, from dinosaur fossils to waterfalls and a collection of phallic stones used by the indigenous ancestors of the land to celebrate fertility.

Monserrate, Bogotá

This is usually people’s first stop on their first day arriving in the country. Despite the Lonely-Planet-Chapter-One-Page-Oneness of it all, it really is among the must-see tourist attractions in Colombia.

Take a cable car or tram up to the monastery at the top of the mountain that looks over Bogotá , and soak up the views of this sprawling capital (clear day dependent!).

Cartagena: Walled City & Getsemaní

The Walled City of Cartagena has been sitting at the top of tourist attractions in Colombia for decades now, as a hotspot for cruises at the edge of the Caribbean Sea. However, now that global interest in Colombia has exploded, the Walled City has grown exponentially as a solid Colombia must-see destination, with the outer barrio of Getsemaní being dragged into the excitement street by street.

Expect to be blown away by the bustle of the locals, the beauty of the architecture, the smell of the foods and (ironically) the complete lack of breeze.

Isla Barú and the Rosario Islands

A Colombia must-see when you’re visiting Cartagena. There are so so many available tours from the city to the Rosario Islands and Isla Barú , but I recommend staying a night or two instead of taking the day trip options.

All of the islands offer slightly different vibes, from family beach fun to mangrove kayaking to local village living to luxe getaways, so have a research before you go!

Parque Tayrona

Without doubt, home to the most beautiful beach this country has to offer. Luckily for future generations, Parque Tayrona is a protected national park, which keeps it clean and well-monitored.

Unless you want to pay for a boat from Santa Marta , you do have to hike a couple of hours to reach the best beaches (my favourite is La Piscina, though Cabo San Juan is the most famous), but there’s no way you should be letting that get the way of you visiting this paradisiacal tourist attraction in Colombia.

Seen all those pics on Instagram of good-looking millennials chilling out on a large net hanging over the jungle? That’s Minca, baby.

Not far from Santa Marta, Minca is a little step into the jungle of the North coast, where there’s not much to do other than hike to waterfalls and relax with a beer.

La Cuidad Perdida

This is a 4-day trek from Santa Marta that obviously you wouldn’t catch me dead doing, but I’ve yet to meet someone who did do it and didn’t love it.

Salento & Valle de Cocora

A brightly-painted town in the lush green mountains of Colombia’s coffee region. Not to be missed is a coffee farm tour and hike through the Cocora Valley , where you’ll see the world’s tallest wax palm trees.

While Salento can no longer be called sleepy, there are still a few places to go in Colombia’s coffee region for some peace and quiet, such as the nearby town of Filandia .

Home of salsa, and a vibrant taste of the loud colourful life in the sweltering dips of Valle del Cauca.

Cali is an absolute Colombia must-see for music and dance-lovers, and its Callejeros street food tour will pique the interest of any foodie. As places to go in Colombia go, this ones is hottttt.

The less-visited places to go in Colombia

Right on the tri-border where Colombia, Peru and Brazil meet, Leticia is the gateway to the Amazon. From here, you can explore the sights, sounds and wildlife of the rainforest, and even catch a 4-day boat down the Amazon river to Manaus.

It’s yet another totally different view of Colombia, and one that will have you so enthralled that you might just forget the rest of the world actually exists.

Tatacoa Desert

While this lesser-visited of the Colombia must-see is actually just an arid area and not technically a desert, it sure does resemble one! Tatacoa’s moon-like landscape are a wonder to behold, especially if you camp there under the stars at night.

Every year there is a huuuuuge electronic music festival there in October where things get pretty wild, but otherwise it’s a serene place to get lost in the orange rockiness.

La Chorrera

Honestly, I’m not sure why Cascada La Chorrera isn’t better known. The tallest waterfall in Colombia sits just an hour’s drive and 1.5 hour hike (each way) from the city centre of Bogotá. It’s a moderately easy hike, and coupling it with a visit to the nearby town of Choachí gives you a real glimpse into how rural Colombians live.

While it’s more or less well heard of, Mompóx is one of those rarely attempted places to go in Colombia for the simple fact that it’s an arse-ache to get to.

However, dragging backpacks from taxi to bus to taxi/motorbike to chulupa river boat to taxi and then walking the rest of the way in 34-degree heat to find the hostel was somehow worth it for the yellow stunners that this riverside town offers.

La Guajira Peninsula

This is the most northern of all places to go in Colombia, and sits next to the border with Venezuela. On this faraway peninsula, you’ll see where the desert meets the sea, which makes it one of the top tourist attractions in Colombia that hardly anyone can be bothered to travel to. It’s a great spot for kite-surfing, desert exploring and learning about the still-strong indigenous culture of the Wayuu people.

Please note that there has been some civil unrest there for the last year or so, so keep up-to-date with the news before you make any solid plans to visit.

Taking you over to the other side of the North of Colombia, Capurganá is the town right before the Panamanian border. It’s perhaps not known for having the most luxurious of beaches, but it’s a far cry from the crowds of the Rosarios , at least. Surrounded by the jungle of the Darien Gap, there are plenty of hikey things to do to fill your time if you’re not into sand and sea.

Bring your passport and you can pop over to Panama for the day by foot, or take a boat tour out to the ultimate paradise of the San Blas Islands .

Touted as the most beautiful pueblo in all of Colombia, Barichara is a colonial dream up in the mountains of Santander.

Quaint, quiet and always blooming with pretty flowers, Barichara is a lovely getaway for a couple of days of peace, especially if you’ve come from our next destination.

The adventure capital of Colombia! San Gi l is one of the top places to go in Colombia for adrenaline junkies who want to try their hand at level 5 white water rafting, paragliding or waterfall rappelling, to name just a few activities on offer in the area.

Plus, the town gives you fascinating insight into Santander life.

Islas de San Bernardo

A little further down the Caribbean coast from the Rosario Islands , this cluster of islands (most notably Isla Mucura) makes a great alternative for people wanting to find places to go in Colombia to dodge the crowds. It’s a tad more difficult to get to from Cartagena, but it’s no pain no gain in this part of the world!

Santuario de las Lajas, Ipiales

If you’re coming up overland from Ecuador, Ipiales will be one of your first places to go in Colombia. Not far from the town sits the magical architectural wonder of Santuario de las Lajas ; a grey cathedral bridging two mountainsides to commemorate a miracle that allegedly happened there centuries ago.

It’s difficult to explain how awesome it is until you’re actually there.

Salinas de Galerazamba

Salinas de Galerazamba, also known as the Pink Sea, is one of the tourist attractions in Colombia garnering a lottttt of interest recently, though as of yet not huge numbers of people actually go (do your thang, Instagram).

You can take a tour to the pink sea (which is this colour at certain times of the year due to a nearby salt mine) directly from Cartagena .

Isla de Providencia

Did someone say paradise ?! Isla de Providencia is another of the places to go in Colombia that people just cannot be arsed to make the effort to get to. However, bag yourself a place on one of the 16-seater propeller planes from Isla San Andres and you surely will not regret your decision.

Isla de Providencia is my happy place, with a perfect blend of white sands, turquoise waters and laidback creole culture.

Colombia off the beaten path

Cerros de mavecure.

Found in the east of Colombia, these are three mighty granite hills – that now I think about it, quite resemble El Peñol at Guatapé – sticking out of the riverside in the Amazon terrain near Inírida. They are seen as a sacred site for the local indigenous people, and it’s fairly easy to see why they might come to that conclusion.

You have to get there by boat, and can only climb one of the looming rocks.

Anybody like whales? Yeah?! Whales?! Get yourself down to the Pacific region of Chocó (in towns such as El Valle , Bahia Solano or Nuquí) between June and October to catch sightings of humpback whales coming to breed and raise small young all along the coast.

Whales aside, the Pacific coast also has a totally different vibe to the rest of Colombia, maybe due to the fact that the coastal towns don’t have any roads connecting them to the country. Jungle hits black-sanded sea in this beautiful part of the world.

You won’t find tourist attractions in Colombia’s plains as you will a whole new side of the culture out in the outback. Think cattle ranches and wildlife safaris in the country’s eastern flank.

Most visitors use Yopal as a base when visiting Los Llanos.

Quebrada Las Gachas, Guadalupe

Ok, so you know I absolutely rave about this place. It’s actually getting a little embarrassing now, but QUEBRADA LAS GACHAS IS INCREDIBLE AND IF YOU WERE TO CHOOSE ONLY ONE OF THE PLACES TO GO IN COLOMBIA IT SHOULD BE THIS ONE.

Honestly, I’m not sure if it even deserves to be called off the beaten path anymore with the amount I’ve been spreading the word about it, but these natural plunge pools deep in a purple-algae river are something that I’ll never forget.

Caño Cristales

The bigger, more colourful, harder to get to and way more expensive version of Quebrada Las Gachas , situated in the region of Meta, scarily close to some of the parts of the country that are still guerilla-controlled. This is one of those places to go in Colombia that are only for the adventurous, as it will involve a couple of days of travel and hiking ( always with the help of a guide !).

So there’s my bucketlist of places to go in Colombia! As you can see, it’s pretty extensive, with plenty that didn’t quite make the cut. Let me know in the comments how many you’re planning on ticking off!

• Cost of living in Colombia

Liked this bucketlist of tourist attractions and places to go in Colombia?

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Last Updated on 11 February 2024 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

Read these posts next!

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Cali, Colombia: The home of Salsa dancing

17 thoughts on “29 breath-taking places to go in colombia: the ultimate bucketlist”.

Wow. Some simply stunning images and travel destinations. A bit tough to choose a favourite but Guatavita Lake looks pretty impressive and those plunge pools. I’ve seen a lot of South America but not Colombia, not yet.

Thanks! Guatavita Lake really is one of Colombia’s gems.

I have a long list of places to visit in South America! I am definitely adding Tattacoa and La Chorrera to my list! Thank you for sharing

You’re welcome 🙂 Let me know if you need any help planning a trip!

I do agree with you, this is truly a nucketlist!

Vising Isla Barú would be a dream come true, even though I would dread the lonmg journey from Sweden 😛

It’d be worth it! There are now direct flights to Cartagena from London so you could do it in just two legs from Stockholm 🙂

Ok, you have convinced me. My bf and I have been talking a while about travelling Colombia and Ecuador. Covid has delayed the plans somewhat. Thinking a month in Colombia? Would that be enough?

A month could certainly get you round the top sights! I’d say a few days in Bogotá (more if you want to do day trips out the city), 4-5 days in Medellín with day-trips and then get yourself up to the Caribbean coast and start exploring as you please 🙂 You’d have time to get up to Isla de Providencia as well which is my favourite place on earth.

I really enjoyed reading this extensive post as I really want to get to Columbia one day. It has everything a traveller could possibly want. Mountains, beaches, charming towns, a colourful history. Fabulous.

Thank you, to me it’s the perfect destination for any travel style!

My trip to Colombia was full of awe and surprises. I was very impressed by the friendly, caring people and the energetic artsy work everywhere. Hope to be able to visit again very soon.

Me too, think I’ll be booking a flight as soon as it’s deemed safe!

We were looking at Cartagena before the pandemic hit. Now, I see there are a lot more great places to check out in Columbia! Hope we can make it one day!

Fingers crossed! Revisiting Colombia will be top of my list once it’s safe again.

It’s so sad what happens to communities like Comuna 13, where the government aren’t helping them they’re easy pickings and at the mercy of cartels who are willing to support them for their own, but only have their own interests at heart. I hadn’t realized that it had turned itself around. I still have that vision of it being lawless. But isn’t that always the way. When bad things are happening in a neighbourhood it gets reported, but when good things happen – that slips the net and they’re not spotlighted.

Colombia is on wishlist since long as there are so many amazing things to see here. I loved Piedra El Peñol, Guatapé and this really looks very unique. Also the colorful walled city of Cartagena and Getsemaní looks very vibrant and good to know it is a foodie place too.

When you come to Cali Colombia you should go to the MULATO CABARET, the best exponents of Salsa dance in the world with a show of international stature. Regards

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17 Amazing Things To Do in Colombia

There's no shortage of unique and amazing things to do in Colombia, including activities and attractions for all ages and budgets.

While the country's tourism industry has matured in recent years, industrious Colombians and expats consistently launch new businesses to guide and support travelers.

Despite the security improvements, street theft is still a common problem in major cities like Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota.

Minimize your risk by avoiding cell phone use in the streets, taxis, and rideshares. Ensure your data is backed up to the cloud. And invest in travel insurance in case of theft or loss.

The majority of nationalities do not require a visa to enter Colombia. However, the Colombia Check Mig, an online form, must be completed before arrival.

The system is known to be buggy, but natvisa.com has an article detailing the issues and their solutions, so it's worth checking out.

I've organized the following list according to geographic region, beginning with the Caribbean coast and working our way south through the Andes mountains to the Amazon in the south.

Table of Contents

1. Walk Old Town Cartagena

2. relax in tayrona national park, 3. trek to ciudad perdida, 4. explore la guajira peninsula, 5. snorkeling and scuba diving in san andres and providencia, 6. outdoor adventures in san gil, 7. party in medellin, 8. experience colombia's pueblos, 9. horseback riding in cocora valley, 10. visit the coffee triangle, 11. ascend nevado del ruiz volcano, 12. bogota's gold museum, 13. the salt cathedral of zipaquira, 14. learn salsa dancing in colombia, 15. cano cristales (“river of five colors”), 16. las lajas sanctuary, 17. the amazon, top things to do in colombia.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, a walk through the historic old town of Cartagena is one of the top things to do in Colombia for travelers from around the world.

The colonial architecture of this walled city offers photographers endless possibilities for snapping shots of colorful streets, art, and the Caribbean Sea.

Photography tip: The best natural lighting at sunrise and the hour before sunset makes for incredible images.

The best way to experience Cartagena's Old Town is to walk the streets — you can't help but feel transported back in time.

Low-cost walking tours of Cartagena are available if you'd like a local guide to provide context to what you're seeing.

Colombia's beloved Nobel Prize-winning novelist, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, had a home in the historic center, where the movie adaptation of his novel, Love in the Time of Cholera, was filmed.

Cartagena is a great place to dip your toes into Colombian culture, even if only for a long weekend visit from the United States. Plus, the white-sand beaches of the Rosario Islands make for an easy day trip.

Would you feel more comfortable on an organized trip to Colombia? G Adventures offers small group tours to Colombia for adventurous souls.

Below are two itineraries to consider, both of which include Cartagena:

• Classic Colombia – departs from Bogota and includes stops in the coffee region, Medellin, Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Parque Tayrona.
• Colombia's Caribbean Coast & Lost City – a 14-day tour along the Caribbean coast, including a jungle trek to The Lost City.

Located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, about five hours east of Cartagena, Tayrona National Park (Parque Tayrona) is a relatively undeveloped national park where the jungle meets secluded beaches.

Relax in a hammock and allow time to slow down while you treasure what many travelers consider to be one of the best beaches in South America.

Take your time hiking along the beaches that line the coast until you reach Playa Cabo San Juan , my pick for the best place to stay.

To see all the current and available options for accommodation in Parque Tayrona, check out Booking.com .

If you'd rather not spend the night, consider a full-day walking tour of Parque Tayrona instead.

If you want to feel like Indiana Jones, add the ancient ruins of The Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida) to your bucket list of things to do in Colombia.

While this archaeological site is not as grand as Machu Picchu , many travelers to Colombia have proclaimed it one of South America's best adventures.

Adventurers trekking to The Lost City can spend up to a week in the Colombian jungle.

The out-and-back journey begins by booking a tour to La Ciudad Perdida in Santa Marta or Taganga . It's not possible to do this excursion without a guide.

Book a Guided Tour

The 7-day Colombia Lost City Trek by G Adventures leaves from and returns to Santa Marta. Alternatively, you can book a 4, 5, or 6-day Lost City tour through Get Your Guide.

Visiting La Guajira Peninsula in Northern Colombia is like stepping into a world that defies the country's lush jungle stereotypes.

Located three hours northeast of Santa Marta and an hour past Riohacha, this barren desert landscape is a stark contrast to the greenery most associated with Colombia.

Getting there is an adventure in itself. The muddy, rutty riverbed roads are best navigated in a 4×4 ; you might expect to get stuck even then. But that's part of the thrill.

La Guajira is the northernmost region of Colombia and South America, and it's home to indigenous communities of the Wayuu people.

Renowned for their weaving skills, Wayuu-made mochilas (woven bags) and ornate hammocks are highly sought after and can fetch a pretty penny in cities like Medellin and Bogota.

Despite its desolate appearance, La Guajira has its unique allure. Miles of empty beaches with turquoise waters offer a serene escape from the crowds. The strong winds also make it a hotspot for kiteboarders.

Watching the sunset over the Caribbean is a nightly ritual for visitors, best enjoyed from places like Cabo de la Vela .

Getting to La Guajira can be arranged through tour companies in Santa Marta and Taganga. A two-day trip, including transport, accommodation in a hammock, and meals, can cost around $200.

Enjoy excellent snorkeling and SCUBA diving amid the warm waters and coral reefs surrounding San Andres and Providencia .

These small islands offer some of South America's most beautiful turquoise waters and are one of the top things to do in Colombia.

San Andres and Providencia are closer to the coast of Nicaragua than Colombia.

Getting there is easy, though, as regular flights leave from several major Colombian cities, including Bogota and Santa Marta. International flights serve the airport in San Andres as well.

Want an adrenaline rush? Why not try paragliding, whitewater rafting , and mountain biking in San Gil?

The town in Eastern Colombia is considered the adventure sports capital of the country. If you have an adventurous spirit, go here for some of the best things to do in Colombia.

There are many tour companies in San Gil, but I recommend this tour with Parapente San Gil .

San Gil is also an excellent place to base yourself for a day trip to Chicamocha National Park (Parque Nacional del Chicamocha), a mountaintop park accessible via one of the world's longest aerial trams.

The Chicamocha Canyon reaches depths of up to 6,560 feet (deeper than the Grand Canyon in the United States). A visit to the park offers spectacular views.

Enjoy the excellent weather in Medellin , nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring, with a night out on the town.

While Parque Lleras in the El Poblado district is a popular nightlife area (referred to locally as La Zona Rosa), there are plenty of other options.

Barrio Colombia, Las Palmas, La 70, and La 33 are some of the best places with nightclubs (discotecas) for travelers to party with the locals.

The dress is casual at most places, with only a few, such as the Envy rooftop bar at The Charlee Hotel, enforcing a dress code (don't wear athletic sneakers).

The best time to go out is around 9 p.m. on a Saturday if you want to see the city begin to buzz with excitement.

Related Reading: Things To Do in Medellin

The nightlife in Medellin is inexpensive by U.S. standards, and bottle service in Colombia is the norm, not an ostentatious display as you find in American cities.

A small bottle of rum or aguardiente, the local firewater, may set you back $20 and is typically split with whoever you're going out with. And if you're going solo, the beer is cheap, too!

An organized rooftop pub crawl is a good option if you travel solo or want to enjoy a night out with fellow travelers.

Heading to Medellin and need a place to stay? Check out our list of the best hostels in Medellin .

Colombia is known in South America for its picturesque towns. Only an hour or two outside most big cities like Medellin and Bogota are small pueblos that offer insights into Colombia's rural way of life.

The prettiest pueblos include Guatape , Jardin , Salento , and Barichara. While they share a typical layout centered around the central plaza, each pueblo has its own identity and energy.

My favorite? The colorful town of Guatape, scenes from which you'll see on many postcards, is a 90-minute drive east of Medellin.

Pueblos are also the perfect place to sample Colombian street food due to their relaxed atmospheres and spacious plazas. In Guatape, try the bandeja paisa, a regional specialty.

Book your tour: From Medellin to Guatape (includes roundtrip transportation, boat ride, breakfast, and lunch)

The Cocora Valley, or Valle de Cocora , is a national park in Colombia's coffee-growing region. The valley is home to the world's tallest palm trees, the wax palm, and Colombia's national tree.

What better way to experience this cloud forest region than horseback riding in Valle de Cocora , a fun way to explore the park's natural beauty?

Cocora is easily accessible from the charming town of Salento , a popular place for coffee tours.

You can get here via a day trip or plan to spend more time by booking a stay. Share jeeps leave every morning to take tourists to the park.

You'll have the option to either walk or go horseback riding, and I recommend choosing the latter as the trail can be muddy and hard to navigate.

Rubber boots may be available through your hostel and are a good idea, given how muddy the trail can get. Bring a lightweight rain jacket as it rains often.

If you'd like to plan ahead, book a tour from Salento or Pereira via Get Your Guide.

Most of Colombia's coffee beans are grown in the Coffee Triangle, or Coffee Axis (Eje Cafetero).

The Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a region that encompasses four departments (Caldas, Quindio, Risaralda, and Tolima). The largest cities there include Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, and Ibague.

This rich agricultural area is dotted with Colombian coffee farms and plantations, and there's even a coffee-themed amusement park called Parque del Cafe , which you can visit near Montenegro.

It's a beautiful part of the country and the perfect place to learn about Colombian coffee culture.

Have you ever wanted to go up a volcano? Sign up with one of several tour companies in Manizales, and you can be driven up Nevado del Ruiz , Colombia's second-tallest volcano.

As you approach 13,123 feet (4,000 meters) in elevation, you may have the chance to stand in the snow, depending on the time of year. As you ride up, marvel at the changes in the landscape.

Most tours will pick you up at your hotel, bring you up to the volcano, and then stop at hot springs on the way back to the city, offering you a chance to relax after a long, cold morning. Be sure to bring your swimming trunks. Book this tour !

Colombia's biggest gold museum (Museo del Oro) is one of the main attractions in the capital of Bogota .

It's an impressive and inexpensive thing to do in Colombia at only a few dollars in admission. The museum offers a unique perspective on the country's history.

Gold jewelry, masks, and tools are among the artifacts on display, having been recovered throughout Colombia.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sundays and holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It is closed on Mondays. Admission is 4,000 Colombian pesos, but it is FREE for everyone on Sundays.

Related: Best Hostels in Bogota

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira (Catedral de Sal), located about 30 miles north of Bogota, is a marvel of spiritual and architectural ingenuity.

Carved deep within the salt mines of Zipaquira, this underground Roman Catholic church is a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, and sanctuaries, all adorned with intricate salt and marble sculptures.

As you descend 650 feet (200 meters) below the Earth's surface, you'll pass through 14 small chapels representing the Stations of the Cross, each illuminated in ethereal lighting.

The main cathedral features a massive cross and domed ceiling carved from salt. Though it's no longer a consecrated church, it remains a place of pilgrimage and a testament to the miners who once worked in these caverns.

Visiting the Salt Cathedral is one of the most unique things to do in Colombia and a worthy side trip while staying in Bogota.

Cali is considered by many to be the salsa capital of the world and is home to the country's leading professional dancers. A large number of dance academies offer lessons to locals and visitors alike.

At night, hitting the city's salsa clubs and dance floors to practice what you learned in class ranks among Colombia's top things to do.

And if you're lucky, some professional dancers will perform for free to inspire everyone to get up and dance.

Where to Go Salsa Dancing in Cali

There are many nightclubs in Cali where you can watch and even try salsa dancing. There's often live music on the weekends, too.

The salsa clubs I recommend are:

• Tin Tin Deo (Cl. 5 #3871) is open Thursday, Saturday, and Monday nights from 8:30 p.m. to 04:30 a.m.
• El Rincon De Heberth (Cra. 24 #5-32) is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.
• MalaMana Salsa Bar (Cra. 4 #9-59) is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.

While Cali might be one of Colombia's best spots to learn salsa, it's by no means the only place.

You'll find dance studios and instructors in all the major cities. Since I was living in Medellin, that's where I took the majority of my lessons.

Cano Cristales, often dubbed the “River of Five Colors” or the “Liquid Rainbow,” is one of Colombia's most stunning natural wonders.

Located in the Serrania de la Macarena National Park, this unique river bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors—red, yellow, green, blue, and black—typically between July and November.

The vibrant hues are not the result of chemical pollutants or a trick of the light; instead, they are caused by a unique species of aquatic plant called Macarenia clavigera.

During the wet season, the river's water level rises, providing the perfect conditions for these plants to flourish and display their radiant colors.

Visitors to Cano Cristales can explore the river through guided tours, which often include hiking, swimming, and photography opportunities.

The area is accessible only by air, with the nearest town being La Macarena, from where tours usually commence.

Due to its ecological sensitivity, the number of visitors is regulated, and swimming is only allowed in designated areas. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also generally prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Las Lajas Sanctuary (Santuario de las Lajas) is The National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Las Lajas, more commonly known as Las Lajas Shrine.

This magnificent basilica church is in Southern Colombia (a ten-minute drive from the small city of Ipiales) and built into the Guaitara River canyon.

A trip to see this dramatic and magnificent church is a must in Colombia.

Want an even better view? Take the cable car from the top of the canyon down to the church. Information on hours and admission prices can be found on their website .

The Amazon region in southern Colombia offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking adventure, biodiversity, and cultural immersion.

Leticia is the gateway to this green space, accessible by air and in the tri-border area between Colombia, Brazil, and Peru.

As the capital of the Amazonas department, Leticia provides a range of accommodations and serves as a launching pad for various excursions into the Amazon Rainforest .

Once you've landed in Leticia, the opportunities for exploration are endless. Take a boat trip along the Amazon River, where you can spot pink dolphins, caimans, and various bird species.

For the more adventurous, jungle treks offer a chance to delve deeper into the rainforest, guided by locals who can help you identify native plants and wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars , and countless insects.

Fishing excursions are also popular, offering the chance to catch piranhas and other native fish. And birdwatchers will find the region a paradise.

Cultural tourism is another highlight. Visit indigenous communities to learn about their traditions, crafts, and relationship with the forest.

Many tours offer the chance to participate in traditional ceremonies, which often involve music, dance, and sometimes even sampling local brews like “chicha.”

For those interested in sustainable tourism, eco-lodges and conservation-focused tours aim to protect the fragile ecosystem while educating visitors on the importance of conservation efforts.

This list is just the tip of the iceberg for fun things to do in Colombia, my favorite country in Latin America. Tops on my list for future trips are a stay at an eco-tourism lodge on the Pacific Coast.

From the vibrant streets of Cartagena's historic walled city to the secluded beaches of Tayrona National Park, from the adrenaline sports found in San Gil to the awe-inspiring beauty of Cano Cristales, Colombia is full of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a party-goer, or someone who wants to immerse in local culture, Colombia offers something for everyone.

While the country has come a long way regarding safety and tourism infrastructure, it's essential to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions, especially in big cities.

But don't let that deter you. With some planning and an adventurous spirit, Colombia can offer some of the most enriching travel experiences you'll ever have.

So, whether you're planning a long weekend or moving there like I did, Colombia is a destination that will surprise and delight you.

I can confidently say that the country's diverse landscapes, rich history, and welcoming people make it a must-visit on any traveler's list.

If you'd like to visit Colombia but would feel more comfortable with support, consider a small group tour with G Adventures:  Colombia Express is perfect if you're short on time. This nine-day trip includes quick stops in Bogota, the coffee region, Medellin, and Cartagena.  Classic Colombia includes everything above, plus additional time on the Caribbean coast in Santa Marta, Taganga, Parque Tayrona, and Minca.  Colombia Multisport & Lost City Trek is for the active traveler who would enjoy whitewater rafting in San Gil and trekking to the ruins of the Lost City. Plus, there's ample time on this 17-day tour to walk around Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena. Paragliding is available in Medellin, too.

Last Updated on September 27, 2023 by Dave Lee

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio . He's been to 66 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Monday 12th of October 2015

currently planning a trip to Colombian iv being reading mix reviews about the town of taganga is it worth visiting we are backpacking also mixed reviews about Parque Tayrona beaches are they beautiful and worth visiting, is there any recommendations you can give me on places on the Colombian coast

20 Must-Visit Colombia Tourist Attractions To Explore

Colombia has emerged as a top tourist destination in recent years, offering travelers a combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant cities. This South American country boasts stunning landscapes, ranging from the breathtaking Caribbean coastlines and tropical rainforests to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains. With a rich history influenced by a mix of indigenous cultures, Spanish colonialism, and Afro-Caribbean heritage, Colombia offers a unique blend of traditions and cuisines.

Discover the beauty of Colombia’s tourist attractions and make the most of your travel experience with our essential guide. From the charming old town of Cartagena to the bustling streets of Medellin and the salsa-filled nights of Cali, there is something for everyone in this vibrant country.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, Colombia has it all. In this blog, we will take you on a virtual tour of the 20 must-visit tourist attractions in Colombia, showcasing the best of what this diverse country has to offer.

Table of Contents

20. Discovering the Historic Charm of Cartagena’s Old Town

With its cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings, Cartagena’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting historic charm and architectural beauty. As you wander through the narrow alleys and charming plazas, you’ll encounter the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

The area is also home to impressive churches, such as the iconic San Pedro Claver Church, and fascinating museums like the Palace of the Inquisition. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this enchanting part of Cartagena, where every corner has a story to tell.

19. Adventuring in Tayrona National Park

Hidden along Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Its diverse landscapes encompass lush rainforests, golden beaches, and sparkling Caribbean waters.

Adventuring in Tayrona National Park offers opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, and unwinding in stunning surroundings. From the ancient ruins of Pueblito to the serene beauty of Cabo San Juan, every corner beckons exploration.

Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of this national park as you embark on an unforgettable journey through its natural wonders.

18. Unraveling the Mysteries of Ciudad Perdida (Lost City)

Hidden deep within the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Ciudad Perdida , or the Lost City, is an ancient city that predates Machu Picchu by over 650 years. Accessible only by hiking through the jungle and crossing rivers, this archeological wonder offers an unparalleled experience.

The site consists of terraces carved into the mountainside, indicating a sophisticated urban center. Visitors can embark on guided tours, unraveling the mysteries of this ancient civilization while immersing themselves in the stunning natural environment. For adventure seekers, a trek to Ciudad Perdida is an absolute must.

17. Finding Peace in the Coffee Plantations of Salento

Nestled in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, Salento offers a serene escape into the lush greenery of coffee plantations. The tranquil ambiance of this town makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Visitors can take guided tours of the plantations, learning about the coffee-making process while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Walking through the fields and witnessing the intricate process of coffee production provides a sense of calm and appreciation for this renowned Colombian export.

16. Witnessing the Colorful Explosion of Carnaval de Barranquilla

Carnaval de Barranquilla , held on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a vibrant explosion of color and culture. This four-day extravaganza showcases lively parades, traditional dances, and stunning costumes, offering a captivating glimpse into Colombia’s rich heritage.

The event features various musical styles, including cumbia and vallenato, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the infectious energy of the carnival, making it a truly unforgettable experience. With its pulsating rhythms and exuberant displays, Carnaval de Barranquilla is a testament to the country’s joie de vivre.

15. Ascending the Steps of El Peñón de Guatapé

El Peñón de Guatapé , located near Medellin, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape with its 740-step staircase. This monolithic formation, rising over 650 feet, is a geological marvel and a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.

Visitors can marvel at the stunning vista from the top, dotted with interconnected waterways, islands, and peninsulas. The nearby town of Guatapé is adorned with vibrant frescoes, adding to the area’s charm and cultural appeal.

14. Exploring the Unique Ecosystem of Caño Cristales

Exploring the unique ecosystem of Caño Cristales is an unparalleled experience. This “River of Five Colors” is a biological wonder, boasting vibrant aquatic plants and algae that create a mesmerizing display of reds, blues, yellows, and greens.

Located in the Serrania de la Macarena National Park, this natural wonder is a testament to Colombia’s astonishing biodiversity. The best time to visit is from June to November when the river is open to the public, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness nature’s breathtaking artistry.

13. Immersing in the Cultural Richness of Medellin

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city. Known for its transformation from a notorious past to a vibrant present, Medellin offers a plethora of cultural experiences.

Explore the city’s thriving art scene with street art tours in the once-infamous Comuna 13 neighborhood, visit the Antioquia Museum to view works by renowned artist Fernando Botero, and indulge in the local culinary delights at bustling markets. Don’t miss the annual Flower Festival, a vibrant celebration of Medellin’s culture and heritage.

12. Venturing into the Depths of Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Venturing into the depths of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira offers a surreal experience blending spirituality and architecture. This underground marvel, located near Bogota, showcases stunning salt-carved sculptures and a unique ambiance.

Visitors can explore the illuminated tunnels, learn about the salt mining process, and admire the large crucifix. The cathedral’s design and cultural significance make it a must-visit attraction, reflecting Colombia’s diverse and rich heritage.

11. Experiencing the Exhilarating Salsa Scene in Cali

In Cali, the salsa capital of the world, experiencing the exhilarating salsa scene is a must. The city pulsates with the infectious rhythms of salsa music and vibrant dance performances.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by taking salsa lessons or simply by enjoying the electrifying atmosphere in the city’s salsa clubs and bars. The annual Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali is a major highlight, attracting salsa enthusiasts from around the globe. Don’t miss the opportunity to sway to the enchanting beats in this salsa mecca.

10. Valle de Cocora

9. Gold Museum

8. Piedra Del Penol

Standing at 7,005 feet above sea level, Piedra del Peñol offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the interconnected waterways and lush green islands. This monolithic formation is a popular rock climbing destination, attracting adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Visitors can ascend the 740 steps to reach the top and marvel at the stunning vista, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Colombia’s natural wonders.

7. Tatacoa Desert

Tatacoa Desert, located in the Huila region, is a mesmerizing natural wonder often referred to as a biogeographical xerophytic dry tropical forest. Despite its name, it’s not a desert but a dry tropical forest.

The landscape is a mix of red and grey with unique rock formations. Stargazing is a popular activity here due to the remote location, unpolluted skies, and excellent visibility. Visitors can also explore the Cuzco and Los Hoyos deserts, home to diverse flora and fauna.

6. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Strategically located in Cartagena, the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is an impressive fortress offering a glimpse into Colombia’s rich history. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural marvel, designed to protect the city from invasions.

Visitors can explore the labyrinthine tunnels, strategically positioned sentry points, and imposing walls while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. It’s a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking views of Cartagena.

5. Botero Museum

4. Laguna de Guatavita

Steeped in legend and allure, Laguna de Guatavita is a place of great historical and cultural significance. Believed to have inspired the El Dorado legend, this stunning lake is nestled amid the picturesque Andean mountains.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of the natural environment and its rich heritage through guided tours and boat trips. The serene setting and mystical aura make it a must-visit for those seeking to connect with Colombia’s ancient past and the captivating wonders of its natural landscape.

3. Monserrate

Monserrate, a mountain that rises 3,152 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views of Bogotá. A funicular or cable car ride takes visitors to the top, where a church, various restaurants , and souvenir shops await.

It’s a popular spot for both religious pilgrimages and tourists seeking breathtaking vistas of Colombia’s largest city.

Monserrate also provides access to hiking trails for those wanting to explore the natural environment surrounding Bogotá. The mountain is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the high elevation and stunning views of the capital city.

2. Cartagena’s Old Town

Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena’s Old Town is a colorful and vibrant colonial city boasting cobblestone streets, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and centuries-old churches.

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a myriad of attractions, including the imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, boutique shops, and lively plazas.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture, savor local cuisine at quaint cafes, or simply meander through the charming alleys adorned with beautiful architecture and street art. Cartagena’s Old Town is an enchanting blend of old-world charm and modern allure.

1. Plaza de Bolívar

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colombia Safe for Tourists?

Colombia has made significant strides in improving safety for tourists. While certain areas require caution, major tourist destinations are generally safe. By staying informed, being vigilant, and following local advice, visitors can have a rewarding and secure experience exploring the beauty of Colombia.

What Currency is Used in Colombia?

The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). When visiting tourist attractions in Colombia, it’s essential to have local currency for convenience. ATMs are widely available, but it’s advisable to exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices for better rates.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Colombia?

Yes, travelers from many countries can visit Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days. However, it’s important to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity.

Best Time to Visit Colombia

High Season (December – March), when the weather is pleasant, and there are various events and festivals across the country. Shoulder Season (April – June, September – November) offers fewer crowds and lower prices with still favorable weather.

Low Season (July – August) is characterized by occasional rain but can be a good time to explore Colombia’s attractions without the tourist influx. Consider visiting according to your preferences and activities, keeping in mind the diverse climate throughout the regions.

High Season (December – March)

December to March is the high tourist season in Colombia, making it the perfect time to visit popular areas like Tayrona National Park and Cartagena’s Old Town. The weather is generally dry and sunny, ideal for exploring the Caribbean coast and indulging in outdoor activities.

Be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this period. It’s advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance to ensure availability. This peak season offers a vibrant atmosphere and an opportunity to fully experience Colombia’s beauty.

Shoulder Season (April – June, September – November)

The shoulder seasons in Colombia, from April to June and September to November, offer the perfect balance of favorable weather and fewer crowds.

During these times, visitors can explore the country’s diverse attractions, from the Caribbean coast to the Andean highlands, without the high influx of tourists experienced during the peak season.

The pleasant climate and decreased likelihood of rainfall make it an ideal period for outdoor activities such as hiking in Tayrona National Park or exploring the historic streets of Cartagena’s Old Town.

Low Season (July – August)

Visiting Colombia during the low season, from July to August, offers a unique experience with fewer crowds and lower prices. Although it’s the rainy season, particularly in the Andean region, coastal areas like Cartagena still enjoy pleasant weather.

This time is ideal for exploring the lush green landscapes and indulging in water-based activities on the Caribbean coast. While some attractions may have reduced hours, it’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the tranquility of off-peak travel.

What to Pack for a Trip to Colombia

When preparing for a trip to Colombia, it’s essential to pack for diverse experiences. Light and breathable clothing is perfect for the warm Caribbean coast, while layers are ideal for the high-elevation areas. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring cities and natural landscapes.

Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and any essential medication. A reusable water bottle can help you stay hydrated, and a small backpack is convenient for day trips. Lastly, consider packing a Spanish phrasebook to enhance your travel experience.

Clothes and Footwear

When packing for a trip to Colombia, it’s important to consider the diverse climate and terrain. Colombia’s climate varies greatly based on altitude, so packing layers is crucial.

For clothing, lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for warm, coastal areas, while warmer clothes are needed for higher elevations.

Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the cities and natural attractions. Additionally, packing a pair of water-resistant shoes for activities like hiking in Tayrona National Park or visiting Ciudad Perdida is advisable.

Essential Equipment

When planning a trip to Colombia, it’s essential to pack some specific equipment to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Be sure to bring a good-quality daypack for your daily adventures, a reliable and comfortable pair of walking shoes suitable for various terrains, a durable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a compact travel first aid kit for any unforeseen situations.

Additionally, consider bringing a portable charger for your electronic devices, a quick-dry travel towel, and a universal adapter for your electrical needs. These essentials will help you make the most of your exploration in Colombia.

Health and Hygiene Essentials

When traveling to Colombia, it is important to pack essential health and hygiene items for a comfortable trip. Basic necessities such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer are crucial. Additionally, it’s advisable to carry any prescribed medications and a basic first aid kit.

Due to the different environments and water sources, it’s recommended to bring water purification tablets and rehydration salts. Insect repellent is essential, especially when visiting tropical areas.

Colombia is a country filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Whether you are exploring the colorful streets of Cartagena’s Old Town or hiking through the unique ecosystem of Caño Cristales, Colombia offers something for every traveler. With its diverse attractions and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that Colombia has become a popular tourist destination.

When planning your trip to Colombia, consider the best time to visit based on the seasons and pack accordingly. Don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes and footwear, essential equipment, and health and hygiene essentials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences traveling in Colombia, feel free to comment below. We would love to hear from you and help you make the most of your trip to this incredible country.

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Unmasking Colombia’s Hidden Gems: The Best Places to Visit

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Colombia! Just the name conjures up vibrant images of colorful festivals, lush landscapes, and a rhythmic dance between history and modernity.

But, hold up! Isn’t Colombia just about coffee and Cartagena? Think again! With the tourism world shifting its gaze, it’s time to unravel Colombia’s many layers.

Ever wondered why there’s a surge in international tourists flocking to this South American jewel? Here’s a sneak peek:

• Colombia’s tourism is skyrocketing, ranking as the second fastest growing tourist destination globally.
• The rich blend of history, landscapes, and culture makes Colombia an unparalleled experience.
• Cartagena is a top pick, but Colombia’s vastness promises so much more.
• Gabriel Garcia Marquez wasn’t kidding: Colombia is indeed the epitome of magical realism.

Why Colombia Should Be Your Next Getaway

According to the World Tourism Organization, Colombia witnessed a 21.4% rise in international tourists in 2018, making it the second fastest growing tourist destination. But what’s the buzz about?

Diverse Landscapes

Colombia is a geographical marvel, presenting an astounding array of landscapes that seem to evolve with every step you take. Nestled between two oceans, the country unfolds like a live canvas, showcasing nature’s artistry in its purest form.

Begin at the sultry Caribbean coast where the azure waters kiss the golden sands, creating postcard-perfect beaches like Playa Blanca. Venture further in, and the Andean region beckons with its three cordilleras, acting as nature’s formidable fortresses. Here, cities like Medellín and Bogotá perch amidst valleys and plateaus, presenting a juxtaposition of urbanity against green, rolling hills.

Yet, the geographical drama doesn’t end there. The Orinoquía region, also known as the Eastern Plains, stretches into the horizon with vast savannahs, giving you a serene spectacle of seemingly endless grasslands. Contrast this with the Amazon Rainforest in the south, an ecosystem pulsating with life. Its thick canopy, mysterious rivers, and unparalleled biodiversity are a testament to Earth’s wonders.

Then there’s the Pacific coast—wild, rugged, and adorned with dense jungles. Its coastline is a symphony of crashing waves, mangroves, and hidden beaches, making it a haven for those seeking raw, untamed beauty.

Colombia’s landscapes also bear silent testimony to its rich history. The Tatacoa Desert , with its surreal terracotta formations, feels like a page out of a Martian diary. Meanwhile, the ancient terraces of Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) amidst the Sierra Nevada mountains stand as monuments to pre-Hispanic civilizations.

These varied terrains aren’t just a visual feast; they’re a call to adventure.

Whether you’re trekking through cloud forests, whale-watching on the Pacific coast, or simply gazing at the starlit skies in the desert, Colombia’s diverse landscapes promise an immersion into a world where nature narrates timeless tales.

Cultural Confluence

From the Cumbia and Salsa to the tales of ancient civilizations, Colombia offers a cultural smorgasbord.

As Colombian novelist and Nobel laureate Gabriel Garcia Marquez once said,

“Colombia is magical realism… It is the place where you can find everything from the highest peaks in South America, to historical cities that have witnessed the passage of time. “

Warmth of the People

As Kevin Erickson often shares from his extensive travels, Colombian warmth isn’t limited to its climate. From Bogotá to Barranquilla, expect radiant smiles, infectious enthusiasm, and a genuine eagerness to share Colombia’s tales.

Must-Visit Destinations Beyond the Clichés

While most gravitate towards Cartagena —and rightfully so with its UNESCO World Heritage tag and well-preserved colonial architecture— Kevin insists on casting the net wider.

Medellín – The City of Eternal Spring

Forget Pablo Escobar’s Medellín. Today, the city pulses with life, innovation, and festivals.

Check out the Botero Plaza, or swing by Comuna 13, a district that transformed from violence to vibrant street art.

Leticia – Gateway to the Amazon

Where else can you breakfast in Colombia, lunch in Brazil, and dine in Peru?

Leticia, sitting at the tri-border, offers this unique experience. Oh, and there’s the vast Amazon rainforest to explore!

The Coffee Triangle

Kevin’s insider tip: Go beyond the coffee plantations. Hop onto a Willy (traditional jeep) and venture into the Cocora Valley.

And if you’re up for it, indulge in the local delicacy —deep-fried ants!

Unpacking the Colombian Experience

Colombia is a playground for the adventurous spirit. Let the winds carry you as you go paragliding over the vast expanses of Chicamocha Canyon , feeling the exhilaration of soaring above one of the world’s most majestic canyons .

Not high enough for you?

Engage in mountaineering expeditions in the snow-capped peaks of El Cocuy. And if the land isn’t enough, plunge into the azure waters of San Andrés.

Dive deep, exploring colorful coral reefs, interacting with vibrant marine life, or even go shipwreck hunting.

From dense Amazonian treks to surfing along the Pacific coast, every day in Colombia is an opportunity for a new adventure.

The culinary landscape of Colombia is as diverse as its geography. Kevin often raves about Ajiaco, a hearty soup from Bogotá that combines chicken, potatoes, and guascas (a local herb), reflecting the comforting warmth of the highlands.

But that’s just the beginning. Indulge in the rich and flavorsome Bandeja Paisa, a platter that brings together beans, rice, pork, and more in a hearty union.

Don’t forget the Arepas, versatile corn cakes that can be filled, topped, or eaten just as they are.

Colombia also offers a symphony of tropical fruits— lulo, guanábana, passion fruit, and more, ready to tantalize your taste buds in ways you’ve never imagined.

Peeling back the layers of Colombian history is like reading a novel with multiple intriguing chapters.

Every city, every alley, and yes, every brick seems to have a tale to tell.

Explore the ruins of Mompox , a reflection of the grandeur and decline of a significant river port. The cobblestone streets of Cartagena, enclosed by its legendary walls, speak of battles, pirates, and colonial splendor.

Venture to San Agustín, home to mysterious statues and relics from a civilization long gone.

The historical depth of Colombia is vast, and with each step, you become a part of its timeless narrative, connecting with stories of glory, conflict, and resilience.

In Conclusion:

Ah, Colombia! A land that seamlessly interweaves a tapestry of history, culture, adventure, and culinary delights. As the second fastest-growing tourist destination in the world, Colombia is no longer the world’s best-kept secret. It’s emerging as a hotspot that welcomes travelers with its vast landscapes, from the golden beaches of San Andrés to the mystical allure of the Amazon rainforest. As you journey through its terrains, you’ll find that every corner of Colombia resonates with stories, some whispered by the winds of the past and others narrated by the spirited locals with a twinkle in their eyes.

Cartagena’s UNESCO heritage tag is just a primer to the depth of experiences Colombia offers. The gastronomic adventures beckon you to explore beyond the known, urging you to savor flavors that tantalize and comfort in equal measure. And amidst all this, there’s a rhythm—a pulsating beat that stems from its music, dance, and festivals, encapsulating the soul of Colombia.

Traveler and journalist Kevin Erickson’s adventures and anecdotes underline one undeniable fact: Colombia is not just a destination; it’s an emotion. It’s about slowing down to appreciate the intricate details, forging bonds with the ever-welcoming locals, and realizing that true richness lies in experiences, not just sights.

As you pack your bags and set out, remember that Colombia offers more than just tourist spots; it promises memories, tales, and a piece of its soul that you’ll carry back.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone taking their first international leap, Colombia is a reminder of why we travel—to discover, to connect, and to be enchanted. Viva Colombia!

Is Colombia safe for tourists?

Absolutely. Like any destination, exercising basic precautions is advised. But Colombia has come a long way and welcomes tourists with open arms.

When is the best time to visit Colombia?

Colombia boasts a year-round tropical climate. However, December to March and July to August are popular due to minimal rainfall.

Any special events or festivals?

Don’t miss the Feria de Cali or the Carnival of Barranquilla! Each city has its unique festivals, often blending indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions.

Which currency is used?

Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP). It’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in remote areas.

How about the language barrier?

While Spanish is predominant, many in the tourist industry speak English. A few Spanish phrases, however, can go a long way!

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One response to “Unmasking Colombia’s Hidden Gems: The Best Places to Visit”

Kevin, your post really resonated with me! Your take on urban gardening is so refreshing. I’ve been nurturing rooftop tomatoes for years, but your suggestion to grow vertical zucchini is a game-changer. Are there specific varieties you’d recommend for a small space? And how do you manage pests in such an environment? I’d love to hear more. Also, folks, if you haven’t tried it yet, do give companion planting a shot! It not only saves space but also boosts yield. Kevin, your insights always make me rethink my approach to gardening. Keep those green thumbs working! 🌱👍

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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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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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Set off on a mesmerizing adventure through the captivating landscapes of Colombia! Immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and history with our handpicked tours in partnership with Viator. Unveil the hidden treasures and craft unforgettable memories. Click now to embark on your journey and uncover the heart of Colombia with WE Like Colombia! ✨ #ExploreColombia #BookYourAdventure

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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Worst Colombian Food: Exploring the Culinary Disappointments of Colombian Cuisine

Worst Colombian food: Uncover the shocking truth about the least appetizing dishes in Colombia. Delve into traditional recipes gone wrong and find out what not to eat while exploring this vibrant cuisine.

Favorite Colombian Dishes: A Gastronomic Journey Across South America

Favorite Colombian Dishes: Uncover authentic flavors with a variety of mouthwatering Colombian delicacies. From aromatic empanadas to hearty bandeja paisa, explore the rich culinary heritage that will leave you craving for more.

Best Places to Go in Colombia

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

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

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

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

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

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

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

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

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

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

Ciudad Perdida ( The Lost City)

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

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

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

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

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

Gold Museum, Bogota

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

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

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

Tayrona National Park

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

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

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

Providencia Island

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

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

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

Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali

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

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

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

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

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

Santuario de Las Lajas

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

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

Cartagena’s Old Town

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

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

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

Valle de Cocora

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

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

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

Cano Cristales

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

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

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

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Panama

Q: Is Colombia safe for tourists? 

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

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

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

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Colombia? 

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

Q: Can I drink the tap water in Colombia? 

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

Q: What’s the currency in Colombia? 

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

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Colombia Tourist Attractions

Welcome to colombia tourist attractions, meet and love colombia.

Welcome to Colombiatouristattractions.com! This is a website where you find information about the diversity of tourist attractions in Colombia. Here you can access detailed data on routes, how to get there, attractions, things to do, hotels and restaurants in the places you want to visit in this beautiful country. Colombia has beaches, badlands, jungles and snowy mountains, its variety of altitudes allows tourists to have different experiences, so we help you choose your next tourist destination to visit in Colombia.

Neusa Reservoir

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-18T17:47:29+00:00 January 18th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Reservoirs | Tags: Camping in Neusa reservoir , Campingi n cundinamarca , hotels in cundinamarca , hotels in neusa reservoir , restaurants in cundinamarca , restaurants in neusa , Tourism in Colombia , Tourism in cundinamaca , what to do in Neusa Reservoir |

The Neusa reservoir is a great source of water supply for Cundinamarca, it supplies the Cogua and Zipaquirá aqueducts; besides supplying, other important functions are flood control and flow regulation in the Neusa river basin during dry seasons. The construction of this reservoir began in 1948, and was carried out by [...]

Guatavita Lagoon

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-18T17:08:34+00:00 January 18th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Lagoons |

Guatavita Lagoon, in addition to its wonderful tourist charm, hides a fascinating history, a legend that characterizes it and makes it more attractive to visitors. La Leyenda del Dorado (Dorado Legend) tells that long ago, before the Spanish conquest, the Muiscas, the indigenous tribe belonging to this region, offered the [...]

Chingaza National Natural Park

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-17T17:38:58+00:00 January 17th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Natural National Parks , Páramos | Tags: Camping area in Chingaza Park , Chingaza National Park , Chingaza Natural Park. Ecotourism in colombia , Tourism in Chingaza , Tourism in Cundinamarca |

HISTORY OF CHINGAZA NATIONAL NATURAL PARK Chingaza National Natural Park has 50,374 hectares that were part of the lands of the Muiscas and Chibchas indigenous communities of Colombia. These communities, despite their beliefs, sanctified the waters of their lakes and mountains, these sites were places of devotion, which they respected [...]

Tobia, Cundinamarca

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-17T17:05:08+00:00 January 17th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Extreme Sports | Tags: camping in TYobia , cannoening in tobia , extreme sports in Tobia , hotels in Tobia , restaurants in tobia , Tobia , Tourism in Colombia , Tourism in Cudinamarca |

Tobia was founded in 1939 on June 29th,on Saint Peter's Day. This town, in its beginnings, was a camp designed for the black people who worked in the construction of the railway that went to the Atlantic coast and needed a place to spend the nights. The town is named [...]

Taganga, Santa Marta

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-17T16:09:07+00:00 January 17th, 2020 | Categories: Beaches , Caribe , Magdalena | Tags: Beach , Camping in Santa Marta , Camping in Taganga , colombian beaches , Hotels in Santa Marta , Hotels in Taganga , party , restaurants in Taganga , Santa Marta , Tourism in Colombia , Tourism in Santa Marta , Tourism in Taganga |

HOW TO GET TO TAGANGA? Taganga is a place located 15 minutes north of Santa Marta, in the Caribbean region of Colombia. To get to Taganga from Santa Marta airport you can take a bus with direct destination to Taganga, the cost of the bus does not exceed $2,000. Buses [...]

Valle del Cocora

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-17T15:09:38+00:00 January 17th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Eje cafetero | Tags: Camping in Cocora Valley , Camping in Quindio , Restaurants in Quindio , Restaurants in Valle del Cocora , Tourism in eje Cafetero , Tourism in Quindio , Tourism in Valle del Cocora |

HISTORY OF THE VALLE DEL COCORA   Valle del Cocora is named after Princess Quimbaya, whose name means water star. The Quimbayas Indians were a tribe that was characterized by the realization of very beautiful and high quality gold pieces. They were located all over the coffee axis and had [...]

Chicamocha Canyon Park

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-16T16:48:18+00:00 January 16th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Santander | Tags: Camping in Chicamocha , Chicamocha Canyon , Chicamocha National Park , Rates in Chicamocha national Park , Restaurants in Chicamocha Canyon , Tourism in Chicamocha |

HISTORY OF CHICAMOCHA CANYON The Chicamocha Canyon is located in the 77th position of the Wonders of the World, is an erosion caused on the river bed and by tectonic movements of the earth. It is located in the department of Santander and Boyacá, because although most of its route [...]

Tatacoa Desert

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-16T16:09:08+00:00 January 16th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Deserts , Huila | Tags: Atronomical Laboratory , Camping Areas in Tatacoa Desert , Hotels in Huila , Tourism in Huila , Tourism in Tatacoa Desert |

The Tatacoa Desert, as this region located in Huila is famously known, is not exactly a desert, it is rather a tropical dry forest that in the tertiary period was a garden full of trees and flowers that gradually dried up until it became what today appears to be an [...]

Villa de Leyva

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-16T15:17:55+00:00 January 16th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Boyacá , Extreme Sports , Páramos , Waterfalls | Tags: Camping in Villa de Leiva , Hotels in Villa de Leyva , Pozoz Azules , Restaurants in Villa de Leiva , Terracota House , Tourism in Boyacá , Tourism in Tunja , Tourism in Villa de Leyva |

Villa de Leyva is a town located in the department of Boyacá, the town was declared a National Monument in 1954 during the government of President Rojas Pinilla. It is a town where you can breathe a colonial air, its streets and houses still preserve this type of architecture. It [...]

Nemocon Salt Mine

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-10T18:01:01+00:00 January 10th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca | Tags: Calt mine in Nemocon , Camping in Necomon , Hotels in Nemocon , Tourism in Cundinamarca , Tourism in Nemocon |

HISTORY OF NEMOCON SALT MINE The Nemocón Salt Mine is a tourist attraction in Cundinamarca with more than 500 years of history, an underground site of cultural, historical, architectural and scientific interest. The municipality itself, Nemocón, has interesting stories in its heritage, for it was in the fields of Nemocón [...]

La Chorrera Park, Choachi

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-10T17:24:45+00:00 January 10th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Waterfalls | Tags: Camping in choachi , Camping in Cundinamarca , Camping in la Chorrera Park , Ecotourism in Cudinamarca , hotels in Choachi , Natural Park , natural reserve , Tourism in Cundinamarca |

This park was created in 2007 by peasant families living around the La Chorrera waterfalls. These families decided to buy the land that today covers the park and build the infrastructure so that visitors could tour the place. In this way, through the creation of the park, jobs were created [...]

La Regadera Reservoir

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-15T16:46:34+00:00 January 10th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Bogotá , Lagoons , Reservoirs | Tags: ecotourism in Bogota , Tourism in Bogota , tourism in Usme |

In 1938 the construction of the La Regadera reservoir in Usme was completed. La Regadera is a water reserve that receives the rivers Chisacá, Lechoso and Curubital. The surroundings of the reservoir are full of beautiful wooded areas, decorated with different species of vegetation, this area is classified as high [...]

Chicaque Park

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-15T16:48:00+00:00 January 10th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Natural Reserves | Tags: Camping in chicaque , Camping in Cundinamarca , hotels in chicaque , hotels in cundinamarca , natural parks in Colombia , Natural Reserves , tourism in chicaque park , Tourism in Cundinamarca |

HOW TO GET TO CHICAQUE PARK? Parque Chicaque is an ecological reserve located southwest of Bogotá, in the municipality of San Antonio de Tequendama, ideal for tourism in Cundinamarca. On weekends the park offers transportation to the entrance of the park, the buses leave from Soacha, so you should arrive [...]

Rocks of Sutatausa

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-09T18:08:09+00:00 January 9th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca | Tags: Camping in sutatausa , Farallones of Sutatausa , Rocks of Sutatausa , Tourism in Cundinamarca , Tourism in Sutatausa |

The name Sutatausa refers to the two indigenous tribes that inhabited these areas at the time of the conquest: the Suta and the Tausa. These lands tell the story of the hundreds of Indians who, after opposing new beliefs and the miserable treatment given to them by the Spaniards, rebelled [...]

Calima Lake

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-09T16:44:23+00:00 January 9th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cali , Extreme Sports , Lagoons , Valle del Cauca , Waterfalls | Tags: Calima Lake , Camping in Calima Lake , Extreme sports in Calima Lake , Hotels in Calima Lake , Restaurants in Calima Lake , Touris in Calima , Tourism in Cali , Tourism in Valle del Cauca |

The construction of the Calima reservoir was completed in 1966. The reservoir, which is 13 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide, was mainly built for the production of electric energy but, over time, it has become a coveted tourist destination for travelers visiting Valle del Cauca. The area covered by [...]

Sisga Reservoir, Choconta

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-09T15:51:21+00:00 January 9th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Extreme Sports , Lagoons , Reservoirs | Tags: acuatic sports , Camping in Sisa , Hotels in Sisga , restaurants in sisga , sisga dam , Sisga reservoir , Tourism in choconta , Tourism in Cundinamarca , Tourism in Sisga |

The Sisga Reservoir is located in the municipality of Chocontá (Cundinamarca). This dam was built mainly to prevent the Sisga River from overflowing and flooding the city of Bogotá. The lake above the dam is what is known as the Sisga Reservoir, which has become known for its tourist importance [...]

Chivor Reservoir “La Esmeralda”

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-09T15:20:08+00:00 January 9th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Boyacá , Reservoirs | Tags: camping in Boyaca , camping in chivor , Chivor Dam , Chivor reservoir , Nautic sports in Chivor dam , restaurants in chivor , Tourism in Boyacá , Tourism in Chivor |

Chivor reservoir is a hydroelectric power plant created in the department of Boyacá. Chivor is a word that comes from the language of the Chibcha indigenous tribe and means "green and rich land". It took almost 30 years to build and covers the municipalities of Almeida, Macanal and Chivor. HOW [...]

Guatape, Piedra el Peñol

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-09T14:50:52+00:00 January 9th, 2020 | Categories: Antioquia , Medellín , Reservoirs | Tags: Camping in Guatape , El Peñol , Hotels in Guatape , Tourism in Antioquia , Tourism in Guatape , Tourism in Medellin |

Peñol is made up of two tourist wonders: the Reservoir and La Piedra del Peñol. In order to build the reservoir, the urban area of El Peñol and some houses in Guatapé had to be destroyed. La Piedra del Peñol has 740 steps, and the first time they decided to [...]

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-08T17:45:24+00:00 January 8th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Boyacá , Lagoons | Tags: Boyacá , Camping in Playa Blaca , Camping in Tota Lake , Hotels in tota Lake , Tota Lake , Tourism in Boyacá , Tourism in Tota Lake |

Tota Lake has become one of the most frequented tourist sites by travelers thanks to the beauty of its landscapes and the stories that are hidden in its lands, since this land was once inhabited by the indigenous people of the Muisca tribe, who considered it the "mirror of the [...]

San Agustin Archaeological Park

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-08T17:18:59+00:00 January 8th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Archeological Parks , Huila | Tags: Archaeological Parks in Colombia , Camping in Huila , Tourism in Huila , Tourism in San Agustin |

San Agustin Archaeological Park has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is located in the department of Huila and is one of Colombia's archaeological treasures. This area of the country, according to historians, was a sacred site for the indigenous communities, and it is also said that [...]

Palomino, Guajira

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-07T17:39:15+00:00 January 7th, 2020 | Categories: Beaches , Caribe , La Guajira | Tags: Beach , Camping in Palomino , Hotels in Palomino , Palomino River , Restaurants in Palomino , sea , Tourism in Guajira , tourism in Palomino , Tubing in Palomino River |

Palomino is one of the most charming beaches in Colombia, is located in the municipality of Dibulla in Guajira and is a destination preferred by foreigners because so far tourism is booming in this area, so the beach is not very full and you can take time to rest and [...]

Rio Claro Canyon Reserve

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-07T17:08:40+00:00 January 7th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Antioquia , Natural Reserves | Tags: Camping in Antioquia , Camping in rio Claro Reserve , Hotels in rio Claro Reserve , natural reserves in Medellin , Rio Claro Reserve |

The Rio Claro Canyon Reserve was created to preserve the species of fauna and flora in the approximately 500 hectares of tropical rainforest it covers. In addition, the reserve has promoted respect for nature and the duty we humans have to take care of it so that spaces like these [...]

Fin del Mundo Natural Reserve

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-07T16:07:21+00:00 January 7th, 2020 | Categories: Amazonas , Natural Reserves , Putumayo , Waterfalls | Tags: Fin del mundo Waterfall , Hotels in Putumayo , Tourism in Mocoa , Tourism in Putumayo , Waterfalls |

Fin del Mundo natural reserve is one of the most magical places on Colombian territory, is a wonderful natural experience and a destination much visited by nationals and foreigners who seek to clean their lungs from city pollution. Don't get carried away by its frightening name, because although this part [...]

Jaime Duque Park

By Colombia Tourist Attractions | 2020-01-04T18:51:30+00:00 January 4th, 2020 | Categories: Andean region , Cundinamarca , Theme Parks | Tags: Jaime duque Park , Restaurant at Jaime Duque Park , Theme Parks in Colombia , Tourism in Cundinamarca |

The Jaime Duque Park was founded in 1983 as a nice initiative to help non-profit foundations working for the elderly and children. This park was created by the aviator and first chief pilot of Avianca, Jaime Duque Grisales, who dedicated his life to social work, donations and helping the neediest [...]

FOREIGNERS AND TOURISM IN COLOMBIA

According to data from the Colombian Association of Travel and Tourism (Anato), in Colombia there has been a constant tendency to increase the arrival of foreigners to our territory. While in 2007 the arrival of 1,195,000 foreigners was recorded, in 2016 this figure was 2,698,000, representing a growth of 126%, however, an even more notable positive increase was yet to come.

For 2017, thanks to political processes, advances in infrastructure and economic strength, international confidence was improved and the risk index in our country was reduced, which improved our image and led to a drastic increase in the visitor rate from abroad According to data from the Tourist Information Center of Colombia, based on DANE, during 2017 6.5 million foreigners entered Colombia, representing an increase of 28% compared to 2016 and more than 400% in Comparison with 2006, strong evidence of tourism growth and development as a product of the positive vision that the country manages. However, although tourism makes a considerable contribution to our economy in the commerce, gastronomy, hotel and transportation sectors, this contribution does not represent more than 5% of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). So, how many more located foreigners visit Colombia so that the tourism sector becomes the main provider of the country’s GDP?

Bogotá, Cali, Antioquia, Valle del Cauca, Bolívar, San Andrés, Santa Marta and Cartagena, the cities with the highest number of foreigners. The citizens of the United States were the ones who obtained our country most motivated by the search for unique landscapes, gastronomic variety, flora and fauna and the friendliness of the average Colombian. In addition, other countries that also contributed tourists were Brazil, France, Germany, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands and Australia, among many other visitors for whom Spanish was a foreign language.

TOURISM IN COLOMBIA IN THE POSCONFLICT FRAMEWORK

Colombia is a country rich in culture with immense plurality of ethnicities, customs, musical rhythms, food and communities, each with its own linguistic diversity. The geographical conditions, the crops and the gastronomic offer produced by the different thermal floors make Colombia a country recognized worldwide for its privileged location with enviable tourism potential. However, due to the recent decades marked by the internal armed conflict, our country has been stigmatized and recognized abroad as a violent country and not recommended to visit by tourists from other parts of the world.

Fortunately, violence has been greatly reduced after the political processes that have led to demobilization and cessation of hostilities by some of the members who have been part of the conflict. The Peace Agreements agreed with the guerrilla of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in 2017 during the mandate of former President Juan Manuel Santos, have given us a positive impact as a society and progressively the perception that the people of the foreigners have about our country and our society, which in turn has been reflected in the opening of new opportunities directly related to tourism and the arrival of foreigners in our territory.

Such is the positive development that the Colombian State intends to make the tourism sector the main supplier of the country’s gross domestic product. The government of the current president Iván Duque (2019) that in his government plan has decided to implement a policy based on the Orange Economy, opens a new page of history for Colombians where art, culture and, especially, tourism , become an economic sector of great importance.

COLOMBIA: COUNTRY OF REGIONS, CULTURES AND LANGUAGES

Colombia is a country that has 6 regions in which the Amazon region, the Andean region, the Caribbean region, the Insular region, the Orinoquía region and the Pacific region are located, in turn, these regions are divided into 32 departments each one with a geographical variety and a cultural diversity of its own. Simply move a few kilometers to any direction to find yourself in a new environment where the weather, customs and their inhabitants will be different compared to the starting point.

Colombia is considered one of the richest countries in linguistic diversity. Here, cultural plurality offers linguistic varieties where expressions, accents and lexicals manifest themselves in different ways, and in our country there are not only multiple changes in Spanish but there are also indigenous languages ​​and native communities that have their own linguistic characteristics The level of linguistic differences throughout the national territory is such that even a Colombian native from Bogotá while visiting, for example, in Santa Marta may encounter language barriers and misinterpretations in the meanings given the accent, lexicon and level of informality of the Spanish language used in the northern part of Colombia.

In our country there are 68 native languages ​​that, according to the last DANE census (2005), are spoken by approximately 850,000 people. However, in the country more than one hundred languages ​​have died in recent years and 12 languages ​​are in danger of extinction (UNESCO, 2012) because native speakers are less and less.

12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Bogota

Written by Michael Law and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law have traveled to Colombia multiple times, including a recent trip to Bogota in fall of 2022.

Bogota offers an experience like no other in Colombia. Surrounded by lush mountains, the city may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but you can't help falling under its charms.

Wondering how to tackle a day or two of sightseeing in Bogota?

Start by heading to the Plaza Bolivar to see the cathedral and the Museo Nacional de Colombia or watch people feeding the pigeons. One of the fun things to do here for tourists is to have your picture taken with a colorfully dressed llama and send it to your friends back home.

From here , wander up Calle 11 to see the vendors selling goods and maybe have a street-side poet type you a quick poem. Grab a pastry and coffee along the way if you need a bit of a pick-me-up and to counter the effects of 8,660 feet of elevation. If you have the time and inclination, stop in at the nearby Gold Museum, one of the city's most popular tourist attractions.

Then turn your sights upwards and walk up through the colorful streets of Candelaria to Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo. Check out the vendors in the square and then stroll down the surrounding narrow walkways nearby to admire the graffiti art.

When you're done here, call an Uber to take you to Monserrate Cable Car and head up for the best view of Bogota. Enjoy a long, leisurely lunch at the elegant Casa San Isidro and plan out your evening's events in the flashy Zona Rosa.

1. Walk through La Candelaria

2. take the cable car up monserrate, 3. see the sights at plaza bolivar, 4. gold museum (museo del oro), 5. visit the botero museum, 6. salt cathedral de zipaquirá, 7. la perseverancia market (plaza de mercado la perseverancia), 8. go to andres dc for food and music, 9. zona rosa, 10. play a game of tejo, 11. museo nacional de colombia, 12. botanical gardens, where to stay in bogota for sightseeing, bogota, colombia - climate chart.

Highlights: Narrow streets and alleys with colorful murals.

La Candelaria neighborhood is the most colorful area of Bogota, in more ways than one, and one of the best places to visit to get a true sense of the city. This historic district of buildings from the 1800s is riddled with narrow streets and walkways, and spills down from the mountains on the far eastern side of the city.

The most intriguing aspects of this area for tourists are the art-clad walls displaying eye-catching murals that range from abstract to pictures of daily life.

It's a delightful place to wander around by day, with unexpected scenes around every corner. Discover a graffiti-covered building, a cozy coffee shop, a narrow cobblestone walkway, or a small market selling local crafts.

One of the sights here is the Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo , where most days you'll find a small pop-up market of local arts and crafts. Just off the plaza heading downhill is Calle Jon del Embudo , a famous, narrow street lined with small shops and restaurants along with some of the city's most famous murals.

For a coffee and a snack, check out Casa Galeria Cafe , with a pleasant and colorful courtyard.

It's important to note that La Candelaria actually includes places like Plaza Bolivar, but the historical architecture is located east of the modern area that surrounds the Plaza.

If you want to stay in this area of the city, the Hotel de la Opera is a quaint boutique hotel in a wonderful location.

Highlights : Views over the city, a mountain-top church, and restaurants.

Bogota is big, and the best way to truly get a handle on the city and the surrounding countryside is to take a trip to the viewpoint at Monserrate. Reached via either a scenic four-minute cable car ride or via the slower funicular, or for those with energy to spare, a 1.5-kilometer walk, this wonderful oasis of calm provides incredible vistas. People have been coming here in some form or another since the mid 17th century.

At the top, you'll find the Sanctuary of Monserrate , a functioning neo-Gothic church dating from 1925. As you climb the stairs from the cable car or funicular stations, you may notice that you are short of breath. This is due to the elevation, a gasp-inducing 10,341 feet (3,152 meters) above sea level.

Catch your breath and soak up the incredible views , snap a selfie or two, then make your way to one of the two wonderful dining establishments. Choose from either Italian at Casa San Isidro or typical Colombian food served in a renovated home from 1924 at Santa Clara House .

Given this is one of the most popular things to do for both foreign tourists and locals, lineups can be long, and the waits sometimes substantial. Peak time is from 10am until 3pm, and you may want to avoid going on Sundays when the rate is lower, and the locals tend to flock here.

Highlights : The cathedral, Palace of Justice, pigeon feeding, photo ops with llamas.

Home to the city's most important buildings, this huge square is always filled with people and pigeons. Lots of pigeons! You'll know you are in the right place when you see the giant statue of Simon Bolivar facing the Palace of Justice.

Other notable buildings in Colombia's largest square include the Nacional Museo de Colombia and the impressive Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception .

The plaza is a great place to visit to enjoy a bit of people watching, get your photo taken with a llama , or do like the locals and feed the flocks of pigeons. If you're traveling with kids, there are a number of fun things to do for children, with pigeon feeding and llamas topping the list. The area has a fun vibe and an assortment of interesting characters wandering about.

Take a stroll down a few of the side streets to find restaurants, shops, vendors selling souvenirs, and other interesting sights. Where else can you find a poet to type you a poem on the side of the street?

Highlights : An extraordinary collection of gold pieces from the pre-Hispanic era, free on Sundays.

Just the name of the museum should be enough to pique your interest. It's well worth a stop to see some of the most remarkable pieces of this coveted mineral displayed. Spread over three floors, the museum showcases over 34,000 pieces from the pre-Hispanic era.

Fascinating carvings primarily depicting women and animals are displayed, complete with descriptions in Spanish and English. In addition to gold pieces, the Gold Museum also displays pieces made from stone, ceramics, and even bones.

Admission to the museum is free on Sundays.

Highlights : Paintings and sculptures by Fernando Botero, Picasso, Dali, Monet, and others.

Colombia's most famous artist, Fernando Botero, has a style that is most likely unlike anything you've ever seen. His artwork, both in sculpture and in paint, is something that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

The Botero Museum is a free attraction . Just walk right in and tour the galleries to see some of his most famous works. The artist self-curated the assortment, which includes 85 of his own pieces and another 100 works by various other famous artisans including Picasso, Dali, and Monet.

One of the must-see paintings here is Botero's version of the Mona Lisa , which shows the famous lady as if she had eaten one too many of Colombia's famous arepas.

Highlights : Former salt mine with an underground cathedral.

Located in the small town of Zipaquirá, a couple of hours from downtown Bogota, the Salt Cathedral is one of the most unique tourist attractions in Colombia . It's quite a feeling to enter the mine shaft and walk on a gentle incline, eventually ending up over 600 feet below ground . Along the way are the 12 stations of the cross and multiple salt caves.

Eventually you'll make your way to the main attraction, a cathedral complete with pews, a massive cross, and a spectacular marble carving in the floor. The whole scene is softly lit and truly something that has to be seen to be fully appreciated.

Several other smaller chapels are also located nearby and are worth a look.

Beyond the cathedral area, the place takes a dramatic turn to the commercial. Located in additional caves off the main roadway are all manner of trinket sellers, food stalls, and mineral shops.

Highlights : Meat and produce market, restaurants serving traditional Colombian cuisine.

If you want to have a true local experience that includes shopping and eating like a resident, a trip to La Perseverancia Market is in order. Known colloquially as Persa, this small market is located near the National Museum of Colombia.

All manner of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats , and other items from around Colombia are available from small sellers. Be sure to ask for your "rebaja ñapa," which roughly translated means a discount and gift. The seller may mistake you for a local!

It's not all about shopping here, in fact many people think La Perseverancia Market is more about eating. Attached to the market is an incredible food hall, with a multitude of restaurants serving typical Colombian fare from a central open-air kitchen. It's loud, crowded (especially at lunch), and all a bit crazy but very, very fun. The food is exceptional — all the fresh ingredients from the market find their way into dishes that include the famous Ajiaco soup.

Highlights : A quirky Bogota restaurant spread over multiple floors with live entertainment.

Andres DC is a Bogota institution when it comes to dining. The original restaurant is located in Chia, about an hour from Bogota and consists of multiple dining rooms, dance floors, and kitchens. The décor is way beyond eclectic; some people say it's like the American children's chain restaurant Chuck E. Cheese for adults.

If spending two hours in Bogota traffic is not your idea of fun, head to this highly-authentic-feeling copy of the original, located in the Zona T in the El Retiro Shopping Center .

It's not really a place to go for a romantic dinner, but it's a fun thing to do in Bogota at night with a small group. The music gets louder almost on the hour, with live bands playing, and on a Friday night, the place will be packed. If you're looking for some nightlife in Bogota without a lot of hassle, this is the best place to visit.

The menu is extensive and expensive by Colombian standards. Food offerings run the gamut, from huge steaks through to seafood and all manner of fried items.

Highlights : Shopping by day, dining by night.

If you've had your fill of street graffiti, culture, and historical buildings, then make a beeline for Zona Rosa. This modern and hip area of Bogota is the premier destination for shopping during the day, and dining and having a good time in the evening.

Modern buildings are home to high-end boutiques , American and European chain stores, and all manner of restaurants. Wide sidewalks make strolling here a pleasure, especially if you have your hands full of all your recent purchases.

Highlights : A traditional Colombian game of throwing disks at explosives on a target board.

Ask any Colombian what they do for good times with friends and they may tell you that they throw steel disks at a board filled with clay, where they aim at explosive packets of gunpowder hoping they will explode. They aren't just making this up, this is an actual Colombian pastime called Tejo.

Tejo is similar in nature to the game known as cornhole. The idea of Tejo is to try and get the disks to stick in the center of the tray of clay. If you hit the explosive packets, everyone cheers, and you get additional points.

This is another fun thing to do with a group of friends, and the venues generally serve food. Grab a meal and play a game. Tejo La Embajada on Carrera 24 is a reputable establishment, but there are many nearby, and you can also find Tejo places in La Candelaria.

Highlights : The best collection pertaining to Colombian history in the world.

The Museo Nacional de Colombia is the granddaddy of all museums in the country. Contained within its formidable walls is the largest, oldest, and most complete collection of Colombian history in the world.

The collections are spread over 17 galleries divided up into four different areas: archeology, ethnography, art, and history. You'll not be short of things to see and do; over 2,500 items are on display at any point in time.

Although the main attractions are the items on display, the architecture of the building itself should not be overlooked. Built in 1823, it has served many purposes over the years and was once a prison. The Museo Nacional de Colombia has been operating here since 1948.

Highlights : Plants and trees from Colombia, greenhouses, and walking paths.

Bogota, with its manic traffic, may seem like a concrete jungle at times; however, a trip to the Botanical Gardens of Bogota is an excellent way to escape to a quiet oasis of green. Pleasant walkways wind their way through stunning examples of flowering plants, trees, and ferns from all over Colombia. Water features, including ponds and waterfalls, are home to a variety of aquatic plants.

Not to be missed are the greenhouses, home to an incredible assortment of humidity-loving plants from many of Colombia's unique ecosystems.

Bogota is huge, and the traffic can be brutal, so choosing the correct area to stay is critical. Tourists looking to sightsee and enjoy the historical nature of the city should stay in La Candelaria . Those looking for a more modern area of the city with high-end shopping and dining should look to Zona Rosa . Another good option is the Corferias area, where you can find top name brand hotels. If you are only transiting the city, fine hotels can be found minutes away from the airport.

• Hilton Bogota Corferias : For luxury and location, it's hard to beat this hotel. This modern and sleek tower is located in Corferias and ensures you are central to most of Bogota's main attractions. Large rooms with commanding views of the city, excellent service, and a first-class restaurant make staying here a pleasure.
• Hotel de la Opera : This historical hotel is located in the heart of La Candelaria and offers old-world charm at a reasonable price. Colonial-style rooms are large and comfortable. You'll be able to walk to many of the key sights from your front door. Breakfast with cooked-to-order omelets is included.
• Courtyard by Marriott Bogota Airport : If you want something close to the airport, this is a good option. Comfortable rooms are quiet, with large windows; breakfast is included, as is a free shuttle to/from the airport.
• La Colina Hotel Cottage : This hotel is a fun and funky boutique option for those looking to spend less without skimping on luxury. The property is located in the hills in the northern part of the city and will require a bit of commuting.

The best time to visit Bogota is during the months of December, January, February, and March . At this time of year, it's dry, and although it's never particularly hot in Bogota, these are also the warmest months of the year.

The second best time to visit is in July and August, when it's also dry but daytime temperatures are slightly cooler and it's a bit less sunny. The rainy months of April and May are best avoided.

Although Bogota is only 4 degrees off the equator, the climate is driven by its altitude of 8,612 feet above sea level. This high altitude means cool days and cold nights no matter what time of year you visit. Days here are a mix of sun and cloud most days and when the sun shines, it's warm almost hot with an intense equatorial sun, when the clouds come or you step into the shade it gets cold fast.

More on Colombia

This Is Why Colombia’s Tourist Industry Is Booming

D espite facing several challenges, Colombia’s tourism sector exhibited remarkable resilience and growth in 2023. The country welcomed a record 5,869,869 non-resident tourists, a 24.3% increase from 2022 and a 173.6% increase from 2021. This surge in international tourism played a pivotal role in substantially boosting the Colombian economy, which grew by 0.6% in 2023. These tourism figures, provided by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism , underscore the nation’s impressive tourism boom, with Medellín emerging as a critical player in this growth.

It’s worth noting that the tourism sector’s resurgence post-pandemic contributed to its impressive performance in 2023. International tourism surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 29.1%. Migration Colombia’s data revealed a consistent increase in foreign arrivals, further solidifying the positive outlook for tourism in the country. Medellín, in particular, saw 659,097 international visitors. These numbers, highlighting its allure as a cultural and digital nomad hub, further propelled Colombia’s tourism success. Moreover, Colombia’s natural attractions, including the Andes Mountains and the beaches of the Caribbean coast, continue to attract travelers from around the globe. 

Challenges Faced

Despite the sector’s growth, Colombia continues to face sex and drug tourism concerns that jeopardize the tourism industry’s long-term viability and security. The presence of sex tourism and its exploitation of vulnerable people, together with the continuation of the illegal drug trade, necessitates immediate attention. So, ensuring the safety of visitors, particularly in the face of recent spikes in violent crime against foreigners in cities like Medellín, has become a crucial challenge for the sector. 

Preserving Colombia’s tourism attractiveness requires the sector to prioritize sustainable growth and safety measures. This will guarantee that tourism promotes cultural appreciation, economic prosperity, and safety for everyone. Furthermore, visitors play a crucial role in fostering ethical enterprises. Travelers need to avoid establishments associated with exploitation, leading to a favorable impact on Colombia’s tourism economy as a whole.

Exploring Colombia Safely

Colombia’s towns have everything from fascinating historical excursions to exciting nightlife. In Bogotá, the Museo del Oro displays an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts. At the same time, Medellín’s innovative public transport system allows for easy exploration of the city’s renowned botanical gardens and modern art galleries. To stay safe, explore these urban areas during daylight hours. 

Choose organized tours, which often provide additional security and local knowledge. The same goes for the coastal city of Cartagena, famed for its historic Old Town, encircled by ancient walls. Walking tours can help you safely enjoy its history under knowledgeable locals’ guidance. These tours are educational and an excellent way to ensure you don’t wander into less secure areas.

On the Caribbean coast, including popular spots like Santa Marta and the pristine Tayrona National Park, opt for well-known beaches with lifeguards and stay within designated swimming areas. Furthermore, always keep your accommodations and travel plans known to someone from home. Use reputable transport options like official taxis or trusted ride-sharing services, and avoid displaying valuables prominently.

Most Boring Tourist Attractions in the World

By Neal Taparia - 04/08/2024

The best time for a Solitaire game is when you are bored, but you probably never plan to be bored on vacation. However, not every stop on an itinerary will yield life-changing results. Some are so dull they make global news headlines !

That’s why we set out to help you avoid boredom on your travels by rounding up the attractions that are sure to prove so tedious they bore you into mediocrity with their drab, dull, and lackluster offerings. We analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide, spanning 384 cities across 71 countries, focusing on 11 keywords indicative of tiresome, lifeless, and downright boring impressions.

We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot. Even if you are a seasoned traveler, read on to ensure you have the knowledge you need to avoid booking a certifiably dull vacation!

Key Takeaways

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, MO, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada, and Australia hold the respective #1–3 spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions.

Top 100 Most Boring Attractions Worldwide

You can leave your passport at home for most of our dull journey because the U.S., which comprises only 38.5% of our data, holds 62% of the world’s 100 most boring attractions.

First, on our trek across the world of boring attractions, is the Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, where you hop aboard the boring express in the land of misery! What makes it the #1 most boring attraction worldwide? It has the highest proportion of reviews, labeling it boring compared to its total number of reviews.

The next stop is our #2 most boring attraction: The Illuminarium Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia! This cinematic 360-degree immersive experience offers visitors views of natural wonders and cultural moments. Unfortunately, the Illuminarium appears to be a fully immersive experience of boredom.

Then we hop over to our #3 most boring attraction: The Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, where the park's theme appears far from amusement. This Jurassic adventure is an indoor boat ride through an animatronic dinosaur park. According to the reviews, these dinos are ghosts of their former selves, perhaps worthy of a museum like their fossilized brethren for which they allegedly represent.

Our honorable mention is the Salem Witch Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, the world's 4th-most boring tourist attraction. Despite having the highest number of reviews labeling it boring globally, it ranks 4th because reviews from bored visitors occur far less frequently than positive reviews.

Speaking of museums, they comprise 33% of the world's top 100 most boring attractions, and despite what you may assume, it is not just art, history, and science museums that top the charts. The Museum of Ice Cream in New York, the Hershey Story Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and the International UFO Museum in Roswell, New Mexico, are some of the most boring in the world!

While museums may seem like a logical fit for a dull attraction, you may not assume the same of a family entertainment center. However, four LEGO/LEGOLAND Discovery Centers all rank in the top 25 most boring attractions worldwide! Discovery Centers are smaller versions of the LEGOLAND Theme Park, and according to our data, they removed fun from the original formula, too.

The U.S. States with the Most and Least Boring Attractions

Our analysis reveals that the U.S. holds the majority of boring attractions globally, so we drilled down on the states with the most lackluster attractions. We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state. By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states.

Four Georgia attractions are in the top 100 Most Boring Worldwide list. Besides the Illuminarium Atlanta, the world’s #2 most boring attraction, Georgia has 21 certifiably boring attractions, including four on the top 100 most globally boring list. One of the infamously dull LEGO Discovery centers calls Georgia home.

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is Georgia's third most boring attraction. The last Georgia location on the list of the top 100 most boring attractions is the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta. It’s a museum dedicated to the history of the Coca-Cola Company. Perhaps too many thought they would find the secret Coke recipe there.

Why is Massachusetts #2 on the boredom barometer, with just four attractions earning yawns? According to a chorus of reviewers, these few spots are so mind-numbingly dull that even after applying some fancy logarithmic math to even the playing field, the state's boredom factor skyrockets, securing its place as the runner-up in the national snoozefest.

With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance. Yet, it only ranks as the 5th most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the 5th most boring state.

On the flip side, with only one attraction labeled boring by one person, North Dakota is the least boring state in the U.S.

On a regional basis, the U.S. South has the most boring tourist attractions in the country.

The Most Boring Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State

Museums consistently make our top lists of most boring tourist attractions. However, interestingly, museums are the most boring attraction in only 27% of the U.S. but are the most boring for 32% of countries globally.

As we said before, it’s not just art and science museums that top the charts; it’s niche, specialty museums, too. The Ghost Town Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado, lives up to its name, earning it the most boring in the state. Although it might deliver on its empty promise, perhaps visitors find the reality of a dead town duller than their imaginations.

There is a theme in the data that tourists allegedly find death boring. Specifically, the Museum of Death in New Orleans is the dullest in Louisiana!

There is also a theme that the less we publicly know about a subject, the more boring tourists find its specialty museum. This theme is true of Georgia’s 4th most boring attraction, the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, and the #1 most boring attraction in New Mexico, the International UFO Museum in Roswell. It also appears true of the International Spy Museum, the #1 most boring attraction in Washington, D.C., where you apparently need a double-0-level clearance to uncover some excitement!

Along with museums, science-themed attractions consistently top the charts for the most boring attractions by state. The Adler Planetarium in Chicago is the most boring stop in Illinois. Reviewers consistently say it is far overpriced for what mostly amounts to reading articles on a wall. However, one reviewer said the Planetarium’s location provides beautiful city views as an apparent silver lining to its boring interior contents.

More broadly, science centers that serve as kernels for science discovery and learning are the most boring attractions in seven U.S. states: Connecticut, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Washington.

The Most Boring Tourist Attraction in Every Country

Rewinding to the macabre theme, The Torture Museum in Amsterdam, which, according to its website, “provides a vivid picture of this painful past,” is the most boring attraction in the Netherlands. The London Dungeon, a haunted recreation of various gory historical events, is the UK's #2 most boring attraction. Can you say desensitized?

While medieval castles capture our imagination in film and literature, they are allegedly less dazzling in person. Castles are the most boring tourist attraction in four European countries: the Trakai Island Castle in Lithuania, the Bran Castle in Romania, the Malmö Castle in Sweden, and Laufen Castle at the Rheinfalls in Switzerland.

Of course, some fascinating specialty museums top the boredom charts globally. The Guinness World Records Museum in Denmark, the National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland, Shankar’s International Dolls Museum in India, and the International Mountain Museum in Nepal are all the #1 most boring attractions in each respective country.

Only seven of the top 25 boring attractions globally are outside of the U.S. Two of those attractions are LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, one in Ontario, Canada, and the other in Melbourne, Australia. These Discovery Centers appear so dull that they put cities on the boring map in a truly global sense.

At the macro level, the U.S., Canada, and Australia hold the respective #1–3 spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions, making them, in our books, the most boring countries in the world!

When Boredom Comes in Spades

Not every stop on your vacation will be a winner, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t be! If you find yourself sitting around bored or waiting for your other vacation companions to finish with a stop, try playing an online game. You don’t have to feel guilty because, as the data shows, some tourist attractions are boring!

Try a game of Spades, Pyramid Solitaire , Mahjong , Yukon Solitaire , or one of our many other free games the next time you are stuck in the queue at a bustling tourist hotspot or discover that your sense of travel vastly differs from your companions, leaving you loitering about. Unlike a boring vacation, you can’t lose anything playing a game on Solitaired; no subscription is required! It can even be a way to recoup time lost at a boring attraction!

Methodology

In March 2024, we analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide, spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious."

To ensure we focused on keywords used in a negative context (in other words, to avoid "This place is great if you are bored!" or "You will never be bored here!"), we used natural language processing (NLP) and keyword-in-context (KWIC) analysis.

We began with a list of 1.4 billion reviews for 5,026 tourist attractions before narrowing to our final 3,290. We removed attractions with less than 2,000 total reviews and removed reviews containing positive uses of our keywords.

We calculated a Boredom Frequency for each attraction by stacking the number of bored reviews against the review total. The attractions with the highest boredom frequencies are the most boring. At the country and U.S. state levels, we used a logarithmic scaling formula with linear weighting combining boredom frequency with the number of boring attractions to arrive at our rankings.

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