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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for every traveller. Here are 28 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by me and other travel experts.

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

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

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

From the Caribbean coastline to the edge of the Amazon, Spanish colonial towns to modern metropolises, Colombia tourist spots to hidden gems, these are the 28 very best places to travel in Colombia.

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Best cities to visit in Colombia

1. Medellin, the best city to visit in Colombia

A woman stands in front of a street mural in Medellin, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get there: Fly into Jose Cordova International Airport (1-hour flight from Bogota).

Stay: 574 Hotel – Boutique on a budget near Lleras Park in El Poblado, with bright, tidy rooms and breakfast included. Or try one of these unique Medellin Airbnbs.

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

Colourful architecture in Cartagena, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

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

Get there: Fly into Rafael Nunez International Airport (1-hour flight from Medellin; 1.5-hour flight from Bogota)

Stay: Hotel Boutique Casona del Colegio – Beautiful colonial-inspired rooms with tiled floors and four-poster beds, an infinity pool and garden terrace set in a heritage building 100m from Bolivar Park.

3. Bogota, Colombia’s dynamic capital city

Bogota

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Marcelle from Grey World Nomads

Get there: Fly into El Dorado International Airport (1-hour flight from Medellin).

Stay: GHL Hotel Bioxury – Efficient rooms with modern bathrooms and a lovely shared atrium space walking distance from El Retiro.

4. Cali, Colombia’s salsa capital

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

By Ayngelina from Bacon is Magic

Get there: Fly into Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (1-hour flight from Bogota or Medellin).

Stay: Alko Hotel Casa Nispero – Stunning boutique rooms with exposed rafters and a central courtyard complete with pool close to Cali City Theatre.

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

Colonial architecture in Popayan, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

By Emma from Mum’s Money

Get there: 2.5-3 hours by road from Cali.

Stay: Hotel Dann Monasterio – Comfortable rooms in a 1570 Franciscan convent with swimming pool, Spanish galleries and a central courtyard.

Best places to visit in Colombia: Small towns & pueblos

6. Guatape, Colombia’s most colourful town

Guatape, Colombia - a beautiful landscape of lakes and islands.

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

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

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

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

By Daisy from Beyond My Border

Get there: 2 hours by road from Medellin.

Day trip: Guatape, Piedra del Penol and boat tour departing from Medellin (11 hours; from $37 per person).

Stay: Oak Tree House – An atmospheric retreat with wide outdoor balconies just outside the centre of Guatape.

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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

Get there: 3-3.5 hours by road from Medellin.

Stay: Casa Passiflora Hotel Boutique – Elegant rooms behind a traditional brightly painted facade a few blocks from the main square.

8. Jerico, a hidden gem in Antioquia

A woman peers out a wooden window in Jerico, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get there: 3-3.5 hours by road from Medellin; 2.5 hours by road from Jardin.

Stay: El Despertar Hotel – Beautiful rooms with hammocks and ensuite bathrooms set inside a historic Antioquian home in the heart of town.

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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

By Bianca from Nomad Biba

Get there: 3.5-4 hours by road from Bogota.

Day trip: Villa de Leyva tour with a stop in Raquira departing Bogota (12 hours; from $80 per person).

Stay: Maria Bonita Hotel – Colonial-style rooms with a central courtyard three blocks from the town square.

10. Raquira, pottery capital of Colombia

A colourful shopfront in Raquira, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

By Barbara from Travel Gear For Kids

Get there: 3.5 hours by road from Bogota; 45 minutes by road from Villa de Leyva.

Stay: Hosteria Campestre San Fermin – Simple rooms on a leafy property with a large garden.

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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Get there: 2 hours by road from San Gil Airport (2.5-hour flight from Bogota); 6 hours by road from Bogota.

Stay: El Portal De Don Luis – Simple rooms with a shared terrace, onsite restaurant and old-fashioned Colombian hospitality.

12. Aracataca, the birthplace of Gabriel García Márquez

A Gabriel Garcia Marquez mural in Aracataca, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Santa Marta.

Stay: Casa Turística Realismo Mágico – A unique accommodation inspired by Garcia Marquez’s magical realism.

13. San Jeronimo, an underrated small town near Medellin

Street art in the small town of San Jeronimo, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

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

By Megan from Megan Starr

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Medellin; 30 minutes by road from Santa Fe de Antioquia.

Stay: Hostel la Finca or San Jeronimo Cabaña – Comfortable holiday home with a sauna close to the centre of town.

14. San Gil, the adventure capital of Colombia

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

By Jen from Long Haul Trekkers

Get there: 7 hours by road from Bogota; 3 hours by road from Bucaramanga International Airport (1-hour flight from Botoga).

Stay: Green Door Boutique – Breezy, comfortable rooms walking distance from the centre of San Gil and on the doorstep of the region’s best nature.

Best places to visit in Colombia: Nature & adventure

15. Minca, mountains & waterfalls

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

By Lora from Explore With Lora

Get there: 45 minutes by road from Santa Marta.

Day trip: Full-day coffee and cocoa tour from Santa Marta (8.5 hours; from $90 per person).

Stay: Sierra Alta Finca Boutique – Gorgeous ecolodge with indoor-outdoor rooms, hammocks and gardens nestled in the mountains close to Minca and Santa Marta.

16. Salento, gateway to the Coffee Triangle

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

By Kate from Our Escape Clause

Get there: 1 hour by road from Pereira.

Day tour: Salento coffee tour at Finca El Ocaso with hotel pick up from Salento (3.5 hours; from $87 per person).

Stay: Hotel Kawa Mountain Retreat – Rustic bungalows with a luxury edge surrounded by palm trees in the heart of the coffee region.

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

A mother and child walk through Cocora Valley in Colombia.

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

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

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

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

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

By Alina from The Happy Kid

Get there: 30 minutes by road from Salento.

Stay: Bio Habitat Hotel – Immersive luxury rooms with hardwood floors and glass walls nestled in the treetops, with a hot tub, sauna and pool. Located in Armenia, convenient to Cocora Valley.

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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

By Becki from Borders of Adventure

Get there: Approx. 1.5-2 hours by road to the trailhead from Santa Marta.

Guided hike: 4-6 day trek to the Lost City from Santa Marta with a local guide.

Stay: Cabaña Guarumo de la Sierra – Comfrotable rooms with stunning mountain views in Santa Marta, close to the trailhead.

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

Water flows into the Cano Cristales, the famous red river in Colombia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get there: 45 minutes by road from La Macarena (a 75-minute flight from Bogota).

Stay: Hostal Caño Nevera – A family run guesthouse with tidy rooms and gardens, close to La Macarena town centre and the edge of the national park. Staff can organise guides and transportation on your behalf.

20. Leticia, gateway to the Amazon Rainforest

A night sky framed by palm trees in Leticia, one of the best places to visit in Colombia for an Amazon rainforest encounter.

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

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

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

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

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

By Niina from Bizarre Globe Hopper

Get there: Fly into Alfredo Vasquez Cobo International Airport (2.25-hour flight from Bogota).

Stay: La Ceiba, Amazonas – Immersive nature bungalows with four-poster beds located in a remote jungle village with access to hiking trails.

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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

By James Ian from Travel Collecting

Get there: 1 hour by road from Contador Airport in Pitalito (1.5 hour flight from Bogota); 2.5 hours by road from Guadalupe; 4.5 hours by road from Popayan.

Stay: Masaya San Agustin – Ecolodge with beautiful self-contained cabins in the hills overlooking the river outside San Agustin town.

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

The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Jenny from Tales From the Lens

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Ipiales; 30 minutes by road from San Luis Airport.

Stay: Loft Hotel Ipiales – Modern rooms in Ipiales, 20 minutes by road from Las Lajas.

23. Concordia, coffee plantations near Medellin

A coffee farm in Concordia, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

Get there: 2.5-3 hours by road from Medellin; 2-2.5 hours by road from Jardin.

Stay: Rock Forest Glamping Finca – Stunning A-frame cottages set in the mountains of Concordia, close to coffee farms and with horseback riding available.

Best places to visit in Colombia: Beaches & islands

24. The Rosario Islands, pristine beaches & reefs

Clear blue waters and beach bungalows in Colombia

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

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

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

Get there: 45 minutes by ferry from Baru port to Isla Grande (1 hour by road from Cartagena).

Stay: El Hamaquero Hostal EcoNativo – A popular eco-friendly hostel on the shoreline of Isla Grande, with direct access to the beach.

25. San Andres Island, the best sunsets in Colombia

A beach with a bright blue shack on the shore on San Andres Island, Colombia.

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

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

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

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

By Bailey from Destinationless Travel

Get there: Fly into San Andres Island Airport (2.25-hour flight from Bogota).

Stay: Le Castel Blanc Hotel Boutique – Gorgeous rooms with polished tile floors and wicker furniture, with an outdoor pool and tropical gardens. Set inside a Mediterranean-style mansion house 600m from the best swimming beaches.

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

Jagged mountains reach to the sea in Taganga, one of the best places to visit in Colombia for diving.

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

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

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

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

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

By Eoin from Dollys Quest

Get there: 15 minutes by road from Santa Marta.

Read Post  How Much Time Do You Need to Visit South America’s BIG 5?

Stay: Hotel Cactus Taganga – Simple wooden bungalows with outdoor terraces overlooking the bay.

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

A man walks along the beach in Colombia

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

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

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

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

By Meg from Fox in the Forest

Get there: 30 minutes by road from Santa Marta.

Stay: Senda Koguiwa – Luxe bungalows nestled beneath the mountains with a huge outdoor pool just five minutes from the entrance to the National Park.

28. Santa Marta, relaxation on the Caribbean coast

Vendors on the beach in Santa Marta, Colombia.

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

Santa Marta isn’t dull, it’s serene.

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

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

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

By Renata from bye:myself

Get there: Fly into Simon Bolivar International Airport (1.25-hour flight from Medellin; 1.5-hour flight from Bogota).

Stay: Hotel Boutique Maree – Elegant, modern suites with a generous outdoor pool located close to the city centre and beach. All the perks of a big-brand hotel but with an intimate, boutique feel.

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

Colombia trip essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers. The gem of South America, Colombia has something for everyone. Here are 24 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by travel writers.

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    , my Medellin city guide , ideal itinerary for first-timers , Colombian fruit, flowers and more , things to know before you go , Colombia’s loveliest pueblo , Jerico’s best accommodation , Colombia’s most colourful town , bean to cup in Concordia , a day or two in the capital , in the kitchen in Bogota

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

13 best places to visit in Colombia to soak up salsa and sunshine

Colombia's colors on full display at the Feria de las Flores in Medellín

Take whatever preconceptions you have about Colombia and 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 Colombia is much more than the sum of its natural parts. Its kinetic cities buzz with an energy that sets it apart from most of South America and proves that this 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 Colombia can be a challenge. However, thanks to good service from domestic flights and long-distance buses, Colombia is a place where you can expect to cover plenty of ground, even on a short trip.

Two Palenqueras, colorfully dressed fruit vendors, in Cartagena, Colombia

The Colombian city of Cartagena is full of beautiful culture and color © Kris Davidson / Lonely Planet

Cartagena

Top of most travelers’ bucket lists for Colombia is the sultry city of Cartagena. 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 in a lively embodiment of the city’s famous energy.

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

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The Amazon jungle

Colombia lays claim to an extraordinary glut of flora and fauna that should place it on any wildlife lover’s bucket list. While it covers around a third of Colombia’s territory, the Amazon jungle is mostly inaccessible to tourists, but it remains the prime location for encountering vast swaths of untouched rainforest.

Book a tour into the jungle from the remote outpost of Leticia and spend a couple of nights exploring one of the globe’s wildest places. Boat trips puttering along the Río Amazonas and walking remote trails that slice through the forest floor promise encounters with inquisitive pink river dolphins, sluggish sloths and a cacophony of howler monkeys.

Zona Cafetera

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. Cultivated within the lush hillsides of the departments of Risaralda, Caldas and Quindío are plantations of Colombia’s magic bean, arabica. Family-run operations, these fincas (farms) have opened their doors to curious tourists, with day tours and overnight stays available. Organize your transport from regional hubs Manizales and Pereira.

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

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

Relaxing on sun-soaked beaches or ambling along the jungle trails that edge the coastline are the flavor of the day here, with water currents at most beaches too dangerous for swimmers. To avoid the crowds, head by speedboat to Playa Cristal, an isolated island with pristine waters and gleaming beaches. Time your visit to Tayrona outside of January or February, which are the months when the park typically closes for maintenance.

Side View Of Woman Walking Stone Seats With Buildings In Backgrounds Against Cloudy Sky

Medellín is full of art, bars and a nature preserve with stunning views © Fabian Schmiedlechner / Getty Images

Medellín

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

For art lovers, Colombian heavyweight Fernando Botero’s imprint is visible throughout, with his emblematic engorged statues adding humor to rowdy market squares. But to get deeper under the city’s skin, visit regenerative projects at Comuna 13 and Moravia to see how street art and innovative forms of transport have injected life into down-at-the-heel neighborhoods. You can also hop on a modern cable car that spirits you up and out of the valley and into Parque Arví, a nature reserve with pre-Hispanic trails through forests studded with orchids.

La Guajira Peninsula

Wild expanses of desert sit alongside the splendid blue of the Caribbean Sea in one of Colombia’s most desolate and unique places to visit. Inhabited by the indigenous Wayuu people, La Guajira Peninsula defied conquering by invaders throughout history, and the Wayuu still live here in secluded villages.

To appreciate the dazzling wildness that embodies 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 calve straight into the glistening sea.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

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

Trees covered with fronds of tillandsia, El Gallineral Park, San Gil, Colombia

San Gil

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, you’ll find abseiling excursions down gushing waterfalls, paragliding over rugged mountain peaks and even bungee jumping to help you get that thrill. Caving, mountain biking and canyoning are also available.

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 is one that’ll 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. For the most iconic – and explosive – introduction to Cali’s obsession, get your hands on a ticket to Delirio, a salsa and cabaret showcase of epic proportions that’s staged the final Friday of every month.

Providencia

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 in crystal clear waters alongside huge stingrays, turtles and reef sharks along the 32km (20-mile) stretch of barrier reef, the world’s third largest. For those keen to keep their heads above water, the 25ºC (77ºF) water temperatures and beachside restaurants will more than cater to your needs.

Bananas and fruits at Paloquemao Market in Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá

Rainy and cold thanks to its lofty position in the Andes Mountains, Bogotá might feel like it has little to recommend itself, but those who give it a chance will find Colombia’s capital a place with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and 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.

Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena

Due south of Bogotá, Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena is a park that has found fame as one of the most unique places to visit in Colombia. Just a short drive from the nearest town of La Macarena, Caño Cristales is a river that runs pink. Dubbed the “liquid rainbow,” this remarkable stretch of water flushes rhubarb thanks to the growth of riverweed that occurs between July and October. Pack a bathing suit because you can swim in designated areas of the river.

Despite only becoming accessible to visitors in 2010 because it lay in FARC-occupied territory, Caño Cristales has since become a victim of its own loveliness. As a result, visitor numbers are now capped at only 200 per day, and you’ll need to book your ticket with a local tour operator in advance.

Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín

In the far southwestern department of Huila lies Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín. The site comprises a network of ceremonial and burial sites dotted with fantastical stone statues whose semi-human faces grin through fanged mouths and dizzyingly wide eyes. While their purpose remains largely a mystery to archeologists, many believe the area to have been a place of pilgrimage and ancestral worship built more than 2000 years ago. Pick up a local guide at the entrance to learn more as you explore the site.

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