Colombia

Colombia: general info for travelers

Colombia is a country located in the northwest region of South America. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Andes Mountains, Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, Amazon rainforest, and the desert-like La Guajira Peninsula. The country is also recognized for its cultural and historical heritage, which boasts a rich mix of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Its capital city is Bogotá, and other major cities include Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena. Colombia is famous for producing coffee, emeralds, and flowers, as well as for its salsa music and lively festivals. Despite its past struggles with drug trafficking and internal conflict, Colombia has made significant progress in recent years towards stability and economic development, making it an increasingly popular destination for travelers.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Colombia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Colombia: places to visit

1. Bogota: The capital of Colombia is a cultural haven. It has over 60 museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. Additionally, it has stunning architecture such as the 17th-century Catedral Primada and the Teatro Colon. 2. Cartagena: Cartagena is famous for its old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is well-preserved. There are also stunning beaches and islets to visit and explore.
3. Medellin: Medellin is notorious for its crime history. But today, it is a modern city, with an incredible art scene, museums, and parks. It also boasts of a cable car that takes tourists to the hills surrounding the city. 4. Cali: Cali is the salsa capital of the world, and for good reason - its streets and parks erupt with the music and dance of this Latin American mainstay. It also has ancient archaeological wonders and various museums.
5. Zona Cafetera: Colombia's coffee region, located in the west of the country, has some of the best coffee in the world. Tourists can visit the coffee farms and production centers to learn everything about Colombian coffee culture. 6. San Andres and Providencia: These islands are part of Colombia, located in the Caribbean, worth a visit because of their unspoiled, pristine beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. 7. Barranquilla: Barranquilla is a melting pot of African, Indigenous, and European cultures. It hosts one of the world's largest carnivals, held every year in February, which is very popular with tourists.
These are just a few examples of the most visited tourist places in Colombia. Of course, there are many more beautiful and exciting places to visit, which depend on what the traveler wants to explore.
There is more to see and do in Colombia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Colombia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Colombia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Colombia has a tropical climate, which means that temperatures are relatively consistent throughout the year. However, there are some variations depending on the region. Overall, the best time to visit Colombia is during the dry season, which runs from December to March and July to August.
In the Caribbean coast, the rainy season lasts from April to November, so the dry season is the best time to visit these areas.
In the Andean region, which includes cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, the weather is more temperate due to the altitude. The dry season is a great time to visit this region, but keep in mind that temperatures can still be cool.
In the Amazonian region, the temperature is generally high throughout the year, with high humidity and heavy rainfall. The best time to visit this region is during the dry season from December to March.
Overall, Colombia can be visited year-round, but the best time to go really depends on your interests and the region you plan to visit.

Colombia: activities and what to do

Colombia is a diverse country with a variety of activities and sports to do on holiday. Here are some popular options: 1. Trekking and Hiking: Colombia has many stunning national parks and natural reserves, providing opportunities for trekking and hiking. Some popular options include the Cocora Valley, Los Nevados National Park, and Ciudad Perdida.
2. Beach Activities: Colombia has both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, offering opportunities for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. Some popular beaches include Tayrona National Park, Rosario Islands, and San Andres Island.
3. Adventure Sports: Colombia has many adventure sports options, including white water rafting and kayaking in San Gil, paragliding in Medellin, and zip-lining in the Coffee Region.
4. Cultural Tours: Colombia has a rich cultural heritage with a vibrant music and dance scene. You can enjoy salsa dancing in Cali, explore the street art scene in Bogota or experience the coffee-making process in the Coffee Region.
5. Wildlife Viewing: Colombia has many wildlife reserves, providing opportunities for birdwatching, whale watching, and even spotting the rare pink river dolphins in the Amazon region.
These are just a few options; there are many more activities and sports to do on holiday in Colombia.

Colombia: few words on history and culture

Colombia is a country with a rich and diverse history and culture. It has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with some of the most well-known groups being the Muisca, Tairona, and Quimbaya. In 1499, Spanish explorer Rodrigo de Bastidas arrived in the region and claimed it for Spain, leading to the colonization and eventual independence of Colombia in 1819.
Colombia's culture is a blend of indigenous, African, and European influences. Its music and dance are particularly famous and include styles such as salsa, cumbia, and vallenato. Other notable cultural aspects include art, literature, architecture, and cuisine, with Colombian coffee and empanadas being popular exports.
However, Colombia also has a troubled past with a history of political violence, drug trafficking, and guerrilla warfare. Despite this, the country has made strides in recent years towards peace and development.

Colombia: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Colombia depends on where you are coming from and where you want to go in Colombia. If you are coming from North America, South America, or Central America, the easiest way to reach Colombia is by air.
There are several international airports in Colombia, including Bogotá, Medellin, Cali, Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Pereira. Once you are in Colombia, the best means of transport to get around depends on your budget and the area you want to visit. Some popular means of transport in Colombia are: 1. Public buses: Affordable and convenient, public buses are the most common means of transport in Colombia. They run regularly between cities and towns.
2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in the cities and towns of Colombia. They are affordable and reliable.
3. Car rentals: If you prefer to have your own vehicle, you can rent a car in Colombia. However, driving in Colombia can be challenging due to the country's mountainous terrain and winding roads.
4. Domestic flights: If you want to quickly get from one corner of the country to another, domestic flights are a good option. Many airlines operate flights within Colombia at affordable prices.
5. Trains: While limited in number, trains in Colombia run on a few different routes and provide a scenic and leisurely way to explore the country's countryside. To hire a car to visit Colombia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Colombia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Colombia with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Colombia: 1. Arepas - Arepas are a staple food in Colombia, made from ground maize dough or flour and then grilled, baked, or fried. They can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and can be stuffed with cheese, meat, or avocado.
2. Bandeja Paisa - This is a traditional dish from the Antioquia region of Colombia. It consists of rice, red beans, ground beef, chorizo sausage, fried plantains, avocado, and a fried egg.
3. Sancocho - Sancocho is a hearty stew made from chicken or beef, plantains, yucca, potatoes, and other vegetables. It is a filling and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold day.
4. Empanadas - Empanadas are a popular snack in Colombia. They are made by filling a pastry with meat, potatoes, cheese, or other ingredients and then frying it to perfection.
5. Ajiaco - Ajiaco is a soup made from chicken, multiple types of potatoes, and corn. It is usually served with avocado and cream, making it a creamy and filling meal.
6. Lechona - Lechona is a typical dish from the Tolima region of Colombia. It is a whole pig stuffed with rice, peas, and other vegetables. It is quite heavy and can feed a large group of people.
7. Changua - Changua is a breakfast soup made from milk, water, scallions, and eggs. It is incredibly simple to make but is a comforting start to the day.
Overall, Colombian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with unique dishes and ingredients that reflect the country's history and cultural influences.

Colombia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Colombia can be a relatively inexpensive country for tourists, especially when compared to other popular travel destinations in the region. Prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, location, and type of accommodation. While some areas can be pricey, especially in popular tourist spots, others are much more affordable. Food, transportation, and activities are also generally quite affordable in Colombia, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Colombia: where to find accodation

There are many options for finding accommodation in Colombia. Here are some popular options: 1. Online travel agencies: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and Airbnb are popular options to find accommodation in Colombia. You can filter your search by price, location, and facility preferences. 2. Local guesthouses or hostels: These are usually smaller and more affordable options for budget travelers. You can look for guesthouses or hostels online, or by asking locals when you arrive at your destination.
3. Luxury hotels: If you're looking for a more luxurious option, you can check out five-star hotels. Large hotel chains like Sofitel, Marriott, and Hilton are found in major cities of Colombia.
4. Personal recommendations: If you have friends or acquaintances who have been to Colombia before, you may ask for recommendations. 5. Vacation rental websites: You can also look for vacation rentals through websites like Homeaway, VRBO or Airbnb for a more private and local experience, perfect for long-term stays or group trips. Make sure that you book your accommodation in advance especially during high season (December-January) to avoid availability issues.
You can check hotel prices in Colombia here:
Booking.com

Colombia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Colombian Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, in 2019, Colombia received approximately 4.5 million international tourists. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these numbers decreased significantly in 2020. As for crowded periods, it depends on the destination within Colombia and the time of year. Generally, the high season for tourism in Colombia is from December to February and June to August. During these months, popular destinations such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, and San Andrés can become quite crowded.
Colombia has made significant strides in terms of safety for tourists in recent years. However, it is still important to exercise caution and be aware of certain areas that may pose more risk. There are some regions that are still considered high-risk due to ongoing armed conflict and drug trafficking activity, such as parts of the departments of Cauca, Nariño, and Chocó. It is recommended to avoid these areas unless you are traveling with an experienced guide or taking necessary precautions. In general, cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena have become relatively safe in recent years, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against common crimes such as pickpocketing, robbery, and scams. Stick to well-lit and heavily trafficked areas, and avoid flashing valuables or carrying excessive cash.
Overall, Colombia is a beautiful and vibrant country that is relatively safe for tourists, as long as you use common sense and take necessary precautions.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Colombia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Colombia: events for tourists

Colombia has a diverse range of events and festivals that are popular among tourists. Here are some of the most interesting events: 1. Carnival of Barranquilla: This is one of the largest carnivals in the world and is celebrated in February. It features colorful parades, music, dance, and traditional costumes.
2. Medellin Flower Fair: This is a vibrant festival that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and colorful flower arrangements.
3. Cartagena International Music Festival: This festival is held in January and features a range of classical music performances by international and local artists.
4. Feria de las Flores: This flower festival is held in August in the city of Medellin. It features a parade of brightly colored flowers and exotic plants, music, dance and lots of food.
5. Cali Fair: This is a celebration of salsa music and dance, held in the city of Cali in December. It features parades, live music performances, and dance competitions.
6. Ibero-American Theater Festival: This is a biannual theater festival held in Bogota that brings together theater companies from across Latin America and Spain.
These are just a few of the many events and festivals that you can experience in Colombia.

Colombia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Colombia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a potential two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Colombia: Day 1-3: Begin in the bustling capital city of Bogotá. Explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, visit the famous Gold Museum, take in the views from Monserrate, and learn about Colombia's complicated history at the Palace of Justice or the Botero Museum.
Day 4-6: Head to the colonial city of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Walk the colorful streets of the walled Old Town, check out the San Felipe Castle, and take a day trip to the Rosario Islands for some beach time.
Day 7-8: Visit the Tayrona National Natural Park for a nature fix. Hike through the lush jungle to secluded beaches for a relaxing dip in the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Day 9-11: Explore the coffee region, or "Eje Cafetero," in central Colombia. Learn about the coffee making process at a plantation, go on a horseback ride through rolling hills, and taste some of the world's best coffee.
Day 12-14: Finish your trip in Medellín, once the infamous home of Pablo Escobar, now a thriving metropolis with a vibrant nightlife scene. Visit the Botanical Garden, ride the cable car for stunning views over the city, and learn about the city's transformation at the Museum of Memory.
Of course, there are many other places to visit and things to do in Colombia, so feel free to adjust this itinerary to suit your interests and priorities. Enjoy your trip!

Colombia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Colombia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Barranquilla is a major city located on the northern coast of Colombia, in the Caribbean region. It's the fourth-largest city in the country and serves as an important port for trade and commerce. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Barranquilla
- Bogotá is the capital city of Colombia, located in the central region of the country at an altitude of 2,640 meters above the sea level. With a population of almost 8 million people, Bogotá is the lar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bogotá
- Cali is a vibrant city located in the southwest region of Colombia. It is known as the salsa capital of the world, and the locals are known as Caleños. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and the a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cali
- Capurganá is a small town located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, near the border with Panama. It can only be accessed by boat or plane, and it is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Capurganá
- Cartagena is a city located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It is known for its charming colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches. The city is also rich in history, having be... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cartagena
- El Retiro is a municipality located in the Antioquia department of Colombia. It is nestled between the Andes Mountains and is part of the subregion of Eastern Antioquia. The town is known for its coff... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Retiro
- Guapi is a small coastal town located in the Cauca Department of Colombia. It is situated on the Pacific coast and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforest. Guapi ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guapi
- Guatapé is a town located in the Eastern region of Antioquia, Colombia, known for its colorful houses and nearby giant rock formation known as "El Peñol." The town is situated next to the hydroelectri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guatapé
- Honda is a municipality in the department of Tolima, located in the central region of Colombia. It is known for its colorful colonial architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful sunsets. Honda was fou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Honda
- La Ceja is a small town located in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, coffee plantations and friendly people. It has a population of approximately 50,000 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Ceja
- La Dorada is a municipality located in the department of Caldas in Colombia. It is situated in the middle of the Magdalena River Valley and is a major transportation hub for industries such as agricul... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Dorada
- La Guajira is a department located in the northernmost part of Colombia. It is known for its beautiful desert landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. The department is home to several indig... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Guajira
- Leticia is a town located in the southernmost part of Colombia, in the department of Amazonas. It is situated at the crossroads of Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, and is actually closer to both Peru and B... CONTINUE here for a trip to Leticia
- Manizales is a city located in the central region of Colombia, specifically in the department of Caldas. The city is known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes and pleasant climate, as well as its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manizales
- Medellín is the second-largest city in Colombia and is located in the central region of the Andes Mountains. It has a population of over 2 million people and is known for its pleasant weather, friendl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Medellín
- Mompós, also known as Santa Cruz de Mompox, is a small town located in northern Colombia, near the Magdalena River. It is a colonial-era town that was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish conqui... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mompós
- Montería is a city located in northern Colombia, in the department of Córdoba. It is known as the "capital ganadera" (cattle capital) due to its important livestock industry. The city has a rich cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montería
- Neiva is the capital city of the Huila department in southwestern Colombia, located along the Magdalena River. It has a population of approximately 400,000 people and is known for its hot and humid we... CONTINUE here for a trip to Neiva
- Nuquí is a coastal municipality located in the department of Chocó, in the Pacific region of Colombia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and rich biodiversity. Nuquí is also a po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nuquí
- Pitalito is a town located in the southwest of Colombia, in the department of Huila. It sits at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters above sea level and has a population of around 130,000 people.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pitalito
- Popayán is a beautiful colonial city located in southwestern Colombia, known for its well-preserved white-washed buildings, elegant churches, and vibrant cultural scene. Founded in the 16th century, P... CONTINUE here for a trip to Popayán
- Puerto Nariño is a small town located in the Amazon region of Colombia, in the department of Amazonas. It is unique in that it is entirely car-free, with all transportation occurring via boat or on fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Narino
- Puerto Nariño is a small town located in the Amazon region of Colombia. It is known as the gateway to the Amacayacu National Natural Park, a vast protected area that is home to a wide variety of wildl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Nariño
- Puerto Triunfo is a small town located in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. It is situated in the middle of the Magdalena River and is known for its beautiful natural scenery and eco-tourism oppo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Triunfo
- Quibdó is the capital city of the Chocó department in Colombia. It's located in the northwest region of the country and is a major port city on the Atrato River. The city has a population of approxima... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quibdó
- San Agustín is a small town located in the department of Huila, in southern Colombia. It is known for its impressive archaeological park that features numerous pre-Columbian statues, tombs and other s... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Agustín
- San Agustin del Cauca is a small town located in the south of Colombia, in the department of Huila. It is most famous for the nearby San Agustin Archaeological Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage S... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Agustín del Cauca
- San Andrés is a Colombian island located in the Caribbean Sea, about 700 km north of the mainland. It is part of a group of islands known as the San Andrés archipelago, which also includes Providencia... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Andrés
- San Andrés de Sotavento is a municipality located in the department of Cordoba, in northern Colombia. It has a population of around 32,000 people and is located approximately 60 kilometers southeast o... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Andrés de Sotavento
- San Bernardo del Viento is a small town located in the northern coast of the department of Cordoba, Colombia. It has a population of about 16,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches and seaf... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Bernardo del Viento
- San Gil is a small city located in the Santander department of Colombia. It is known for its many outdoor adventure sports such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, paragliding, mountain biking, and hikin... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Gil
- San Jacinto is a small town located in the department of Bolivar, Colombia. It is famous for its colorful handicrafts called "sombreros vueltiaos" or turned hats, made out of caña flecha, a local plan... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Jacinto
- San José de Uré is a town located in the south of the Córdoba department in Colombia. It has a population of approximately 25,000 people and covers an area of 1,247 square kilometers. The town is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to San José de Uré
- San José del Guaviare is a municipality located in the department of Guaviare, in the southeastern region of Colombia. It is known for its natural beauty, with vast rainforests, rivers, and national p... CONTINUE here for a trip to San José del Guaviare
- San Juan de Pasto is a city located in the southern part of Colombia, in the department of Nariño. It has a population of approximately 400,000 inhabitants and it is known for its rich indigenous cult... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Juan de Pasto
- San Luis de Gaceno is a municipality in the Boyacá department of Colombia. It has a population of approximately 11,000 people and is located about 180 kilometers northeast of the capital city, Bogotá.... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Luis de Gaceno
- San Marcos is a municipality located in the department of Sucre, Colombia. It has a population of approximately 40,000 people and lies at an altitude of 71 meters above sea level. The town is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Marcos
- San Pedro de los Milagros is a municipality located in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. It is situated approximately 42 kilometers northeast of Medellín and has a population of around 35,000 peo... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Pedro de los Milagros
- San Rafael is a municipality located in the Antioquia Department of Colombia. It is situated in the foothills of the Andes Mountains and has a population of approximately 20,000 people. The town is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Rafael
- San Vicente del Caguán is a municipality located in the department of Caquetá, in southern Colombia. It is known for its rich biodiversity and proximity to various natural reserves, including the Serr... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Vicente del Caguán
- Santa Fe de Antioquia is a historic town located in the northwest of Colombia, about 80 kilometers from Medellin. It was the capital of the Antioquia department until 1826 and is renowned for its well... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Fe de Antioquia
- Santa Marta is a beautiful city located on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia. It is one of the oldest cities in South America and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes such as the Sierra Nevada m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Marta
- Santa Rosa de Cabal is a picturesque city situated in the coffee-growing region of Colombia, approximately 40 kilometers from the city of Pereira. The town is known for its hot springs, natural beauty... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Rosa de Cabal
- Tierradentro is an archaeological park located in the southern Andes of Colombia, in the department of Cauca. It is known for its pre-Columbian underground tombs and elaborate burial sites, dating bac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tierradentro
- Tumaco is a port city located on the Pacific coast of Colombia, in the Nariño Department. It is known for its vibrant Afro-Colombian culture, beautiful beaches, and abundant natural resources. Tumaco ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tumaco
- Turbo is a municipality in the Antioquia Department of Colombia, located on the Caribbean coast. It has a population of about 96,000 people and covers an area of 1,738 square kilometers. The town of T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Turbo
- Valledupar is a city in the department of Cesar, located in the north of Colombia. It is known for its cultural heritage, especially for being the birthplace of vallenato music, a traditional genre of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valledupar
- Villavicencio is a city located in the eastern part of Colombia, in the department of Meta. It is known as the "gateway to the Eastern Plains" because it is situated at the foothills of the Andes and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Villavicencio


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