Why you should visit Colombia

Beyond the Headlines: A Country Transformed

Dispelling Outdated Myths

Let’s address the image that often comes to mind first: the dramatic, violent history popularized by television series. While this past is a part of Colombia’s story, it is not its present. Over the last twenty years, the country has undergone a profound transformation. Significant improvements in security have made Colombia a stable and accessible destination. Today, the reality on the ground, particularly in areas frequented by travelers, is one of peace and progress. Tourist zones are well-protected, and the nation has moved forward with a focus on rebuilding and showcasing its incredible culture and natural beauty.

The Warmth of the Colombian People

Perhaps the country’s greatest asset is its people. Colombians are famously welcoming, often greeting visitors with a genuine curiosity and warmth that is immediately disarming. There is a joyful spirit woven into the fabric of daily life, from the rhythms of salsa music to a shared cup of coffee. People are immensely proud of their country and are often eager to share their favorite places, foods, and stories with travelers. It’s not uncommon for a simple question on the street to turn into a friendly conversation, with locals going out of their way to offer directions or recommendations. This open-hearted hospitality is so central to the visitor experience that it inspired the country’s former tourism slogan: “The only risk is wanting to stay.”

A Story of Resilience and Optimism

Visiting Colombia is to witness a story of remarkable resilience. This is a nation that has consciously chosen to look forward, embracing innovation and social development with palpable optimism. From the groundbreaking urban projects in Medellín to a burgeoning arts scene in Bogotá, the country is buzzing with creative energy. Travelers will find a nation not defined by its past struggles, but by its hopeful future, its vibrant culture, and its unwavering spirit.

A Land of Astonishing Biodiversity

Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, a place where dramatic landscapes shift from snow-capped Andean peaks to sun-drenched Caribbean shores and dense Amazonian jungle. This incredible variety of ecosystems means that within a single trip, you can experience a continent’s worth of natural wonders.

The Caribbean Coast: Sun, Sand, and History

The northern edge of Colombia is a vibrant tapestry of turquoise waters, golden sands, and colonial charm. Here, the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the waves. In Tayrona National Natural Park, massive granite boulders dot pristine beaches, backed by the dense jungle of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s a place to disconnect, hiking through forests to emerge onto secluded coves. Further west, the cities of Cartagena and Santa Marta offer a journey back in time. Cartagena’s walled Old Town is a masterpiece of colonial architecture, with colorful facades and bougainvillea-draped balconies. Just off the coast, the Rosario Islands form a protected coral reef archipelago, offering crystalline waters ideal for snorkeling and exploring marine life.

The Andean Highlands: Coffee, Palms, and Peaks

The mountainous spine of Colombia is home to its world-famous coffee region and landscapes of surreal beauty. The Eje Cafetero (Coffee Triangle) is a lush, rolling expanse of green hillsides blanketed with coffee and banana plants. Visiting a traditional finca, or coffee farm, provides a fascinating education in the journey from bean to cup. Nearby, the town of Salento is the gateway to the Cocora Valley, a breathtaking landscape where the world’s tallest palm trees, the slender Quindío wax palms, pierce the clouds. For those seeking high-altitude adventure, parks like Los Nevados offer challenging treks among volcanic peaks, glaciers, and unique páramo ecosystems.

The Amazon Rainforest: The Lungs of the Planet

In the southern part of the country, Colombia shares a significant portion of the Amazon basin. The small city of Leticia, situated where Colombia meets Brazil and Peru, serves as the primary gateway to this immense wilderness. From here, you can venture deep into the rainforest by boat, navigating the world’s most powerful river. The experience is an immersion in sound and life, with opportunities to spot incredible wildlife, including playful pink river dolphins, various species of monkeys, sloths, and an astonishing array of exotic birds. Guided jungle treks and stays in rustic eco-lodges allow for a profound connection with this vital and fragile ecosystem.

The Pacific Coast and Unique Deserts

Beyond the more frequented regions, Colombia holds landscapes of stark and remote beauty. The Pacific coast is a rugged, undeveloped shoreline of dark sand beaches and dense jungle, offering an untamed travel experience. Between July and October, it becomes a prime location for watching humpback whales as they arrive to breed and calve. In contrast, Colombia also boasts remarkable deserts. The Tatacoa Desert is not a sand desert but a dry tropical forest, where erosion has carved labyrinthine canyons of ochre and grey earth, creating an otherworldly setting for stargazing. Far to the north, the La Guajira peninsula presents another dramatic scene, where immense orange sand dunes roll directly into the deep blue of the Caribbean Sea, a territory home to the indigenous Wayuu people.

Cities Pulsating with Life and Color

While Colombia’s natural landscapes are vast and varied, its cities offer a compelling look into the nation’s soul. Each urban center has its own distinct rhythm, history, and character, from high-altitude capitals to sultry Caribbean ports. Exploring them reveals a country that is as culturally diverse as it is geographically.

Bogotá: The High-Altitude Capital

Perched high in the Andes at 2,640 meters, Bogotá is a sprawling metropolis that blends colonial charm with a modern, cosmopolitan energy. The city’s historic heart is La Candelaria, a neighborhood of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial-era buildings, and hidden courtyards. It’s here you’ll find some of South America’s most significant cultural institutions, including the world-renowned Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which houses a dazzling collection of pre-Hispanic goldwork, and the Botero Museum, dedicated to Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero.

Beyond its historical core, Bogotá thrives with a contemporary vibe. The upscale neighborhood of Usaquén comes alive on weekends with a bustling flea market, while areas like Zona G have established the city as a serious culinary destination. The city also serves as a canvas for powerful expression, with guided street art tours revealing world-class murals that tell complex stories of politics, peace, and Colombian identity.

For a true sense of the city’s scale, a trip up Monserrate Peak is essential. Whether by cable car or funicular, the journey to the church at the summit provides an unforgettable panoramic view of the vast urban landscape stretching out below. For more on visiting this capital, check out our Bogotá Travel Guide.

Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring

Once a city defined by a troubled past, Medellín is now globally recognized as a model of urban innovation and social transformation. Its pleasant climate gives it the nickname “The City of Eternal Spring,” but its forward-thinking spirit is what truly defines it. A ride on the Metrocable system is more than just public transport; it’s a symbol of the city’s commitment to connecting its hillside communities (comunas) with the economic center, offering stunning views and a lesson in civic pride along the way.

The city’s neighborhoods showcase its dynamic personality. El Poblado is a modern, leafy district known for its excellent cafes, international restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. In contrast, Comuna 13 tells a powerful story of resilience. Once one of Medellín’s most dangerous areas, it has been reborn through community art projects, with colorful murals and a series of outdoor escalators now drawing visitors to celebrate its incredible turnaround.

Each August, the city bursts into color for the Feria de las Flores (Festival of the Flowers). This week-long celebration is the city’s most important cultural event, highlighted by the Desfile de Silleteros, a parade featuring elaborate, oversized flower arrangements carried on the backs of local growers.

Cartagena: A Colonial Caribbean Dream

Stepping into Cartagena‘s Walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, feels like entering another era. This immaculately preserved colonial city on the Caribbean coast is a maze of cobblestone alleys, grand plazas, and historic churches. The architecture is a spectacle in itself, with vibrant facades and wooden balconies draped in cascades of bougainvillea.

The atmosphere is one of romantic charm, where the sound of horse-drawn carriages echoes through the streets and the warm sea breeze rustles through leafy squares. It’s a city made for wandering, with countless photo opportunities, artisan shops, and elegant courtyards housing restaurants and boutique hotels.

Just outside the main walls lies the spirited neighborhood of Getsemaní. Once a humble district, it has transformed into the city’s bohemian heart. Its streets are a gallery of expressive murals and street art, its plazas buzz with local life, and its bars and salsa clubs offer a more raw and energetic nightlife experience.

Cali: The World Capital of Salsa

In southern Colombia, the city of Cali moves to a different beat. Known globally as the capital of salsa, this is a place where music and dance are woven into the fabric of daily life. The city’s rhythm is infectious, and its energy is palpable from the moment you arrive. Cali’s particular style of salsa is faster and more acrobatic, and the skill of its dancers is mesmerizing to watch.

Visitors are encouraged to do more than just observe. The city is filled with dance schools offering salsa classes for all levels, providing a perfect opportunity to learn the basic steps from local experts. In the evening, the ultimate Cali experience is a visit to a “salsoteca” in neighborhoods like Juanchito to see world-class performers and witness the passionate dance culture firsthand.

Cali offers a vibrant, energetic, and deeply cultural experience. It’s a city that doesn’t just entertain its visitors; it invites them onto the dance floor to share in its most cherished passion.

A Feast for the Senses

Colombia’s landscapes and cities are matched only by the richness of its flavors. The country offers a vibrant culinary journey, from the misty mountains where the world’s finest coffee is grown to bustling urban markets overflowing with exotic fruits and traditional dishes. To travel through Colombia is to experience it through taste, smell, and the shared joy of a good meal.

The World-Famous Colombian Coffee Experience

In Colombia, coffee is more than just a morning beverage; it’s a pillar of the national identity and economy. To truly understand its significance, one must go beyond the café and visit a finca (coffee farm) in the heart of the Eje Cafetero. Here, you can follow the entire journey from bean to cup. You’ll walk among the coffee plants, learn to pick the ripe, red cherries, and see the meticulous processes of washing, drying, and roasting the beans. The air becomes thick with the rich, nutty aroma of the roast, a prelude to the final tasting. A cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee, prepared by the people who grew it, is a revelation—smooth, balanced, and complex, with notes of citrus, chocolate, or caramel depending on its origin in regions like Huila or the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

A Culinary Tour of Iconic Dishes

Colombian cuisine is a hearty and diverse reflection of its varied geography. Each region has its specialties, offering a unique taste of local life and tradition. While the list is long, a few essentials stand out:

• Bandeja Paisa: Hailing from the Antioquia region, this is not just a dish but a platter of epic proportions. It typically includes red beans, white rice, ground meat, chicharrón (fried pork belly), a fried egg, plantain, chorizo, an arepa, and a slice of avocado. It’s a true taste of the mountains—satisfying and generous.
• Arepas: The ubiquitous arepa is a fundamental part of daily life. These versatile corn cakes can be grilled, fried, or baked, served simply with butter and cheese or stuffed with a variety of fillings like shredded meat, chicken, or eggs. Every region has its own version, making it a culinary staple to try wherever you go.
• Ajiaco: This comforting chicken and potato soup is the signature dish of Bogotá. Made with three different kinds of potatoes and the distinctive guascas herb, it has a thick, hearty consistency. It’s traditionally served with capers, avocado, and a dollop of cream, making it a perfect meal for the cool highland climate.
• Fresh and Exotic Fruits: A walk through any Colombian market reveals a staggering variety of fruits, many of which are rarely seen elsewhere. Be sure to try lulo, with its tangy, citrus-like flavor; granadilla, with its sweet, pulp-filled interior; and the intensely fragrant maracuyá (passion fruit). They are often enjoyed as fresh juices (jugos naturales), providing a refreshing taste of the tropics.

Exploring Bustling Local Markets

To connect with the soul of Colombian cuisine, a visit to a local market is essential. A place like Paloquemao in Bogotá is a vibrant assault on the senses in the best possible way. The air hums with the calls of vendors and the chatter of shoppers. Your eyes are drawn to towering pyramids of colorful fruits and vegetables, intricate displays of flowers, and counters laden with fresh meats and fish. It’s here you can sample street food, taste unfamiliar fruits, and witness daily life unfold. These markets are not just places to buy food; they are lively community hubs that offer an authentic and delicious window into Colombian culture.

Adventure and Unforgettable Experiences

Beyond its landscapes and cities, Colombia offers a profound sense of adventure that engages both the body and the spirit. Whether you’re pushing your physical limits on an ancient trail or connecting with local traditions, the country provides countless opportunities for experiences that resonate long after you’ve returned home.

Trekking to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)

Deep within the jungle-clad mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta lies the ancient Ciudad Perdida, or “Lost City.” This multi-day trek is a challenging journey that rewards hikers with more than just stunning views. You’ll cross rivers, navigate dense rainforest trails, and sleep in simple camps, all before ascending 1,200 stone steps to emerge onto the terraced plazas of a city built by the Teyuna civilization centuries before Machu Picchu.

Often compared to its famous Peruvian counterpart, the Lost City offers a more intimate and rugged experience. The limited number of visitors allowed on the trail at any one time preserves a genuine sense of discovery. The trek is not merely an archaeological visit; it’s an immersion into a sacred landscape, guided by members of the local indigenous communities who are the direct descendants of the Teyuna and continue to be its guardians. You can learn more about these communities in our article on The Koguis of Colombia.

Thrill-Seeking Activities

For those who seek an adrenaline rush, Colombia’s varied geography provides a natural playground. The department of Santander, particularly the town of San Gil, is widely recognized as the country’s adventure capital, but opportunities for excitement are found nationwide.

• Paragliding: Soar through the air over the breathtaking Chicamocha Canyon, one of the largest in the world. The thermal winds and dramatic scenery create a world-class paragliding environment.
• Whitewater Rafting: Navigate the powerful rapids of rivers like the Río Suárez for a high-intensity challenge or enjoy a more moderate excursion on the Río Fonce. The country’s extensive river systems offer options for all skill levels.
• Canyoning and Rappelling: Descend powerful waterfalls and explore hidden river canyons in the regions surrounding San Gil. This activity combines trekking, swimming, and rappelling for a full-body adventure in stunning natural settings.

Connecting with Culture and Community

Some of the most unforgettable adventures in Colombia are cultural. These experiences offer a direct line to the heart and soul of the country and its people.

A must-try local experience is attending a game of Tejo. Declared the national sport, it involves throwing a heavy metal puck (the tejo) across an alley to strike a clay pit laden with small, gunpowder-filled envelopes called “mechas.” The game is a social, boisterous affair, almost always accompanied by a cold beer and friendly competition. It’s a uniquely Colombian way to spend an evening.

The country’s calendar is filled with vibrant festivals and carnivals. Participating in one, such as the world-renowned Barranquilla Carnival or a smaller local fair, is a joyful immersion into regional music, dance, and tradition. You can find out more about these celebrations in our guide to Carnivals and Festivals in Colombia. Finally, for a deeper connection, consider enrolling in a Spanish school. The welcoming and patient nature of Colombians makes it an ideal environment to learn the language, turning simple daily interactions into meaningful cultural exchanges.

Why Colombia is Easier to Visit Than You Think

Beyond the incredible sights and experiences, Colombia offers a travel infrastructure that is both accessible and remarkably affordable. Planning a trip here is often simpler and more rewarding than many travelers anticipate, removing logistical hurdles and allowing you to focus on the adventure itself.

Incredible Value for Money

One of the most pleasant surprises for visitors to Colombia is the exceptional value. Your travel budget will stretch significantly further here than in most of North America or Europe. A delicious, multi-course lunch (corrientazo) can be found for a few dollars, a comfortable room in a boutique hotel often costs a fraction of a comparable one in Paris or New York, and transportation is highly economical. This affordability doesn’t mean a compromise on quality; it simply means you can enjoy high-quality meals, unique accommodations, and rich experiences without the financial strain often associated with international travel. For more details, check out our guide on the budget for traveling to Colombia.

A Destination for Every Traveler

Colombia’s appeal is broad, offering comfortable and suitable options for nearly any travel style or budget. The country has developed a sophisticated tourism infrastructure that caters to a diverse range of visitors.

• For backpackers: An extensive network of well-regarded and sociable hostels exists in every major city and tourist town. These offer an affordable and excellent way to meet fellow travelers and explore the country on a lean budget.
• For luxury travelers: Colombia is home to a growing number of stunning boutique hotels, restored colonial mansions, and high-end eco-lodges. From chic urban retreats in Bogotá to secluded jungle lodges in the Amazon, you can find world-class comfort and service.
• For families: The welcoming nature of Colombian culture extends warmly to children. Many activities, from exploring coffee farms to relaxing on Caribbean beaches, are family-friendly. The country is generally safe for family travel, offering a culturally rich and engaging experience for all ages.

Getting Around is Simple

Navigating Colombia’s vast and varied geography is straightforward. The country’s size makes domestic flights a practical choice for covering long distances, while a modern bus network is ideal for regional exploration. You can learn more about the country’s diverse terrain in our Geography of Colombia guide.

An efficient and competitive domestic flight network connects all major cities. Airlines like Avianca and LATAM offer frequent and inexpensive flights, making it easy to travel from the Andean heights of Bogotá to the Caribbean coast of Cartagena in about an hour. For more information on visiting this popular coastal city, see our Cartagena Colombia Travel Guide. For shorter distances, such as traveling between towns in the Coffee Triangle, Colombia’s long-distance bus system is excellent. Modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned buses provide a reliable and scenic way to see the countryside.