The gem of South America, Colombia has something for every traveller. Here are 31 of the very best places to visit in Colombia, as recommended by me and other travel experts.
Colourful pueblos, fascinating cities, stunning national parks and idyllic beaches: Colombia has it all.
It wasn’t all that long ago that tourists avoided Colombia. But times have definitely changed. Nowadays this gem of South America tops many a travel wish list.
Diverse in every sense of the word, people often rightly describe Colombia as several nations – each with its own landscapes, traditions, culture and cuisine – rolled into one.
From the Caribbean coastline to the edge of the Amazon, Spanish colonial towns to modern metropolises, Colombia tourist spots to hidden gems, these are the 31 very best places to travel in Colombia.
- Also read: The best things to do in Colombia this year – immersive experiences & hands-on activities
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Best cities to visit in Colombia
1. Medellin, the best city to visit in Colombia
Colombia’s second-biggest city was once considered the most dangerous city in the world. But not anymore. Thanks to some imaginative civil projects and the will and resilience of local residents, Medellin has emerged from its shadowy past to become one of the best places to visit in Colombia.
Dubbed the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, Medellin is located in a rich and fertile part of Colombia responsible for producing much of the country’s coffee, fruit and flowers. The city itself is surprisingly large: Brick houses spread out for miles in every direction, best viewed from lookouts accessed via cable cars connected to the only metro system in Colombia.
The highlights of Medellin include the Museo de Casa de la Memoria, a tasteful homage to the city’s tumultuous past, and Comuna 13, a set of barrios that cling to the side of the hill and provide a canvas for Medellin’s best street art.
Spend your days in Medellin visiting fruit markets, sipping on freshly squeezed OJ and nibbling on empanadas and arepas. Or you can skip over to El Poblado, the city’s most affluent area, and enjoy the many restaurants. Take a stroll through Laureles, a delightful inner-city suburb filled with parks, cafes and bars.
Take a selfie in Plaza Botero (which is lined with sculptures by the Medellin-born artist), and if you’re lucky enough to be in town on the first weekend of the month, drop into the San Alejo Handicraft Market for some authentic Colombian souvenirs.
Medellin is the biggest transport hub in Antioquia Department and a perfect departure point for exploring Colombia’s coffee belt and the colourful colonial towns that characterise this part of the country. It’s worth spending at two or three days in the city itself – most of your time should be dedicated to eating and drinking.
- Get there: Fly into Jose Cordova International Airport (1-hour flight from Bogota).
- Stay: 574 Hotel – Boutique on a budget near Lleras Park in El Poblado, with bright, tidy rooms and breakfast included. Or try one of these unique Medellin Airbnbs.
2. Cartagena, one of the most beautiful places in Colombia
The port city of Cartagena was founded in 1533. One of the best places in Colombia for vibrant architecture and culture, several parts of Cartagena were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
Because of its location on the Caribbean coast, Cartagena has a unique feel. Visitors to the city also enjoy easy access to beaches, islands and jungle trekking.
The city itself is divided into three neighbourhoods: Getsemani, San Sebastian and Santa Catalina (where you’ll find the iconic cathedral and many of the most recognisable streets and buildings), plus San Diego, traditionally home to Cartagena’s merchants.
Must-dos in Cartagena include climbing the Castillo fortress for a view, roaming the Plaza Santo Domingo, and shopping for souvenirs at Las Bovedas covered market. If the bustling UNESCO Walled City gets to be too much, make a break for one of the stunning beaches nearby or charter a boat to Colombia’s Caribbean islands.
As you explore Cartagena by foot, keep an eye out for the famous Palenqueras, fruit sellers dressed in vibrant costume and carting baskets of tropical goodies. They’re hard to miss!
- Get there: Fly into Rafael Nunez International Airport (1-hour flight from Medellin; 1.5-hour flight from Bogota).
- Stay: Hotel Boutique Casona del Colegio – Beautiful colonial-inspired rooms with tiled floors and four-poster beds, an infinity pool and garden terrace set in a heritage building 100m from Bolivar Park.
3. Bogota, Colombia’s dynamic capital city
The largest city in Colombia and the nation’s capital, Bogota is an essential stop on any Colombia itinerary.
The Spaniards founded Santa Fe de Bogota in 1538 at a breathtaking altitude of 8,661 feet. Nestled at the foot of green mountains, it is nowadays a bustling city and home to more than 11 million people.
To get the best overview of the colonial old town, the business district and the outskirts stretching far to the horizon, you can take the cable car to the top of Monserrate (10,340 feet).
Stunning historic buildings line the narrow streets of the old town, Barrio Del Candelaria. The heart of the city is the Plaza Bolivar, where musicians regularly perform and other events take place.
On Sundays and public holidays, the main road Carrera Septima is closed for cyclists, inline skaters, joggers, and walkers. After the sporting performance, a folk festival takes place in the streets.
Plan for at least two days in Bogotá to visit the main sights, more if you’d like to see surrounding attractions or if you’re lucky enough that one of the many festivals is taking place so you can swing the dancing leg Bogota’s to salsa rhythms.
- Get there: Fly into El Dorado International Airport (1-hour flight from Medellin).
- Stay: GHL Hotel Bioxury – Efficient rooms with modern bathrooms and a lovely shared atrium space walking distance from El Retiro.
- By Marcelle from Grey World Nomads
4. Cali, Colombia’s salsa capital
Cali is best known by outsiders as the former home of the infamous Cali Cartel. Many travellers skip it without knowing this Colombian city is famous for something else as well.
If you’re interested in learning how to salsa dance, Cali is considered the world capital of salsa. I spent two months there taking group salsa lessons in the afternoon and practicing what I learned at night at local haunts such as Tin Tin Deo.
Colombians are some of the friendliest people in the world. They understand that everyone begins somewhere, and so you don’t need to be shy if you’re new to salsa. At the clubs I danced the night away and took shots of aguardiente with new friends, who taught me to how to fit in by learning Colombian slang.
Cali is also home to the world salsa championships where you can watch kids as young as four and five years compete in individual or group events. It lasts several days over several venues and is a great way to see Cali from a local perspective.
- Get there: Fly into Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (1-hour flight from Bogota or Medellin).
- Stay: Alko Hotel Casa Nispero – Stunning boutique rooms with exposed rafters and a central courtyard complete with pool close to Cali City Theatre.
- By Ayngelina from Bacon is Magic
5. Popayan, one of the country’s finest colonial cities
Popayan is located in the Cauca Department in the west of Colombia. It’s one of the top destinations in Colombia for a stopover when travelling by bus from Ecuador to the city of Cali.
Popayan, otherwise known as La Ciudad Blanca (‘the white city’), is definitely worth a stopover for at least two nights (more if you can spare it). The climate is much milder than sweltering Cali, and with all the charm of a typical colonial town, the small city provides a great introduction to Colombia.
The colonial centre is a beautiful tribute to post-colonial Spanish architecture and one could easily spend days exploring the cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings. The Iglesia San Francisco in the old town is worth a look, and you can take a tour through the building to view a collection of mummies which were discovered after an earthquake damaged the building in the 1980s.
If you’re looking for more adventurous activities, you can hike up El Morro de Tulcan, a viewpoint over the city that housed an Indian pyramid dating back to the 1500s. It’s a great place to catch the sunset and is easy walking distance from the city centre (or a cheap taxi ride away).
- Get there: 2.5-3 hours by road from Cali.
- Stay: Hotel Dann Monasterio – Comfortable rooms in a 1570 Franciscan convent with swimming pool, Spanish galleries and a central courtyard.
- By Emma from Mum’s Money
Best places to visit in Colombia: Small towns & pueblos
6. Guatape, Colombia’s most colourful town
Guatape is often called ‘the most colourful town in Colombia’. With tiny streets, colourful houses and clusters of joyful tourists, this place is straight out of Disneyland!
Guatape is located 10 minutes’ drive away from La Piedra, one of the largest free-standing rocks in the world. Since the whole region is quite small, one day for both these Colombia is more than enough.
After spending the morning hiking La Piedra, you can dedicate the afternoon to marvelling at Guatape’s lively roads. A few cafes sit just across from the central plaza, providing ample opportunities for people-watching.
Needless to say, the colours that decorate Guatape’s streets are spectacular. From bright reds to rich blues, you’ve never seen such charming houses.
- Get there: 2 hours by road from Medellin.
- Day trip: Guatape, Piedra del Penol and boat tour departing from Medellin (11 hours; from $36 per person).
- Stay: Oak Tree House – An atmospheric retreat with wide outdoor balconies just outside the centre of Guatape.
- By Daisy from Beyond My Border
7. Jardin, a typical colonial town in the coffee region
Located in the heart of Antioquia’s coffee region, Jardin is another pretty pueblo with a long and vibrant history. Here too, residents paint the facades of their homes with bright colours and hang flowers from their windowsills and awnings.
The centre of Jardin is characterised by an impressive cathedral built from locally hewn rock and a main plaza paved with river stones. You’re never far away from nature in Jardin: It’s just a few minutes’ drive to waterfalls and forest paths, birdwatching areas and mountain trails.
In town, boutiques sell locally made handicrafts and you can sample sweet treats at a generations-old candy shop (even the Pope is a fan).
Not surprising for a town so close to coffee country, Jardin has a wealth of local drinking holes and uber-trendy cafes that roast beans grown in the hills around the town.
What makes Jardin one of the best places to visit in Colombia is the feeling of community. Plan to spend a few days in Jardin, but don’t be surprised if you wind up staying longer.
- Get there: 3-3.5 hours by road from Medellin.
- Stay: Casa Passiflora Hotel Boutique – Elegant rooms behind a traditional brightly painted facade a few blocks from the main square.
8. Jerico, a hidden gem in Antioquia
Jerico is a smaller and lesser-known town located roughly halfway between Jardin and Medellin. It’s a gruelling twist-and-turn-heavy bus ride to get up the mountainside, but it’s well worth the journey to visit one of the most interesting places in Colombia.
Jerico is still relatively off the international tourist radar. (Until recently, you couldn’t even find it in Lonely Planet.) Plenty of Colombian tourists come here, many of them pilgrims visiting the birthplace of Santa Laura, Colombia’s first and only saint, who was born in Jerico in 1874 and is something of a local icon.
Jerico remains a tight-knit, deeply pious community. There are no fewer than 17 churches in town and a seminary with a healthy population of 40-plus would-be priests – not bad for a small town of just over 12,000 people.
Museums, historical libraries and a charming botanical garden are among the top things to do in town. Jerico even has its own mini Christ the Redeemer statue, which offers great views over the city.
Like Jardin, Jerico is also a good base for coffee tourism. La Nohelia is a local farm that offers ecotourism activities (including coffee tours) and onsite accommodation.
If the great outdoors is calling, take an early morning hike to Las Nubes, a lookout that leads you high into the clouds, and pay a visit to Ecoland to try tandem paragliding over the lush valley.
In town, climb the giant stone staircases that connect the upper and lower parts of Jerico. Drop into workshops to watch craftsman making carriels, traditional leather bags, and drink local coffee at El Saturia and Don Rafa. Don’t miss Bomarzo, a recently opened multipurpose creative space that houses galleries, cafes and artist studios.
An ideal place to base your stay in Jerico is El Despertar, a boutique hotel set in an Antioquian-style mansion house.
- Get there: 3-3.5 hours by road from Medellin; 2.5 hours by road from Jardin.
- Stay: El Despertar Hotel – Beautiful rooms with hammocks and ensuite bathrooms set inside a historic Antioquian home in the heart of town.
9. Villa de Leyva, home of Colombia’s biggest Spanish Square
With its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and white-washed facades, Villa de Leyva is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia. It’s best know for being home to the biggest Spanish Square in the country, the 150,000 square-foot Plaza Mayor.
Located under 100 miles (160km) from Bogota (or about 3.5 hours by car or bus), this charming town is a favourite destination for both local and international travellers. In fact, the town is so pretty and well-preserved that it is a popular filming location for period films and TV shows. When you walk around its cobblestone streets, it feels like you’re stuck in time.
Besides the 16th-century architecture and historical museums, Villa de Leyva is set in a valley that is rich in fossils from the Cretaceous era. So you can also see some fine specimens on display at the specialised museums in the area. Villa de Leyva also has a thriving gastronomic scene, so it’s a great place to taste some of the best local dishes Colombia has to offer.
Villa de Leyva is a great stopover if you’re travelling between Bogota and San Gil. It’s recommended to spend at least two days to really soak up the timeless atmosphere.
- Get there: 3.5-4 hours by road from Bogota.
- Day trip: Villa de Leyva day tour departing Bogota (11 hours; from $179 per group).
- Stay: Maria Bonita Hotel – Colonial-style rooms with a central courtyard three blocks from the town square.
- By Bianca from Nomad Biba
10. Palomino, a quaint surf town on the Caribbean Coast
Palomino is a quiet surf town located on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, close to Santa Marta. Unlike its neighbour, Palomino’s tourism is still in its infancy, offering a more laid-back and relaxed vibe.
Known for its stunning beaches and seaside cafes, Palomino is a popular destination for backpackers, surfers and nature lovers, who often stay in this beach town to explore nearby Tayrona National Park and the mountain village of Minca (coming up later on this list!).
In Palomino, you’ll find a single central dusty foot road lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes. This leads to La Playa Palomino, a magnificent beach with soft sand, clear turquoise waters and great opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
In addition to the beaches, Palomino is surrounded by lush jungle and the pristine Palomino river, which is a great place to float in clean waters or go tubing downstream toward the sea.
Additionally, this tourist town is one of the most unique places in South America, since you’ll be able to spot the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta straight from the beach!
Plan at least 2-3 days to explore the surrounding region, or a week if you’re looking for a place to relax and wind down.
- Get there: 1.5-2 hours by road from Santa Marta.
- Stay: Palomino Sunrise – beautiful eco-huts right near the edge of the beach and adjacent to the Palomino River.
- By Olly from We Seek Travel
11. Raquira, pottery capital of Colombia
Raquira is as colourful as nearby Villa de Leyva is white. The brightly painted facades in this town bring a smile to your face, and you can easily spend a couple of hours wandering around as part of a day trip or stopover.
This charming little village is widely known as the pottery capital of Colombia. Just about every piece of Colombian ceramic you can buy was made in this tiny town. So you know what to do if you have some spare room in your backpack. Fully packed? Indulge in a pottery workshop and return home with memories instead.
Though pottery is dominant, it’s not the only type of souvenir you can buy in Raquira. All kinds of artisanías – from hammocks, to Mochilas (the pretty handwoven bags from Northern Colombia) and clothing – can be bought here for a fraction of the price you’d pay in Bogota.
Buses leave for Raquira about five times daily from Villa de Leyva. It’s a 30 minute trip. Four hours is enough for lunch and to pick up some souvenirs. Try to sneak in a bit of people watching on the little plaza as well. A good day to visit is on Sunday, when the local market is in full swing.
- Get there: 3.5 hours by road from Bogota; 45 minutes by road from Villa de Leyva.
- Stay: Hosteria Campestre San Fermin – Simple rooms on a leafy property with a large garden.
- By Barbara from Travel Gear For Kids
12. Guadalupe, a must visit town in Colombia for nature lovers
This tiny town in the Santander Department of Colombia is not easy to get to, but make the effort and you won’t regret it. You will fall in love with Guadalupe the moment you arrive.
A five or six-hour bus ride north of Bogota to Oiba, then another hour to Guadalupe by jeep, you could be forgiven for thinking the trip isn’t worthwhile. However, when you arrive in Guadalupe you will realise it’s all been worth it.
The town itself is just a few streets centred around the main square, with locals usually riding around on horseback or motorbike.
What is really special about Guadalupe is the surrounding nature and outdoor activities on offer. Las Gachas de Guadalupe are naturally jacuzzi plunge pools formed in a shallow river, where you can enjoy a dip in the warm water. If you’re feeling brave, you can slide along the smooth rocks and drop into the water.
They earned the nickname the ‘Caño Cristales of Santander’, and although the water isn’t as colourful as the real thing, the red rock at Las Gachas is just as picturesque. The scenery around Guadalupe is beautiful, and as well as Las Gachas, there are other natural swimming pools, waterfalls and caves to explore too.
Although there aren’t too many tourists here, at the weekend tour groups from Bogota or Bucaramanga arrive, so visit during the week if you want Guadalupe to yourself.
It’s recommended to spend at least a couple of nights here, but if you love nature and adventure, then there is plenty to keep you busy for several days.
- Get there: 2 hours by road from San Gil Airport (2.5-hour flight from Bogota); 6 hours by road from Bogota.
- Stay: El Portal De Don Luis – Simple rooms with a shared terrace, onsite restaurant and old-fashioned Colombian hospitality.
- By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker
13. Aracataca, the birthplace of Gabriel García Márquez
A must-visit for literature buffs, the small town of Aracataca in the Caribbean Magdalena Department is best known for being the birthplace of Colombia’s national author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
Founded in 1885, the river town is small and sleepy. The main attraction is of course the Casa Museo (Museum House), set inside the home where Nobel Prize-winning Garcia Marquez was raised. It contains exhibitions of photographs, letters penned by the author, and various personal mementos.
As you wander the streets of Aracataca on a day trip from Santa Marta, you’ll see various tributes to Garcia Marquez including murals and sculptures.
See if you can’t spot some of the landmarks that inspired the fictional village of Macondo, the setting for his much-loved novel, One Hundred Years of Solitude.
- Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Santa Marta.
- Stay: Casa Turística Realismo Mágico – A unique accommodation inspired by Garcia Marquez’s magical realism.
14. San Jeronimo, an underrated small town near Medellin
After a couple of visits to the South American country, San Jeronimo remains one of the most underrated places I have visited in Colombia.
The Antioquian town is located in close proximity to the mountains and offers a quiet respite from hectic Medellin, which sits around an hour and a half away.
Once you arrive in the sleepy, yet quintessentially Colombian town, you will be greeted with smiles, the smell of fruit, and fresh mountain air. There are many cafes, small shops, and terraced restaurants waiting to be visited by the very few tourists who frequent the streets of the town.
The best thing about San Jeronimo isn’t in the town’s centre, however – it lies an hour’s tuk-tuk drive away in the mountains, and is called Hostal La Finca. This guesthouse, which is owned by Colombians and Germans, is one of the most relaxing places in the country. They have a large pool, gardens for yoga, and homemade Colombian cuisine made with fruit from the many trees surrounding the property.
There are waterfalls nearby that you can hike to, and the lodge prides itself on being eco-friendly. I have never traveled somewhere and come back so refreshed. A quick weekend getaway to San Jeronimo is highly recommended for anyone who is visiting Medellin.
- Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Medellin; 30 minutes by road from Santa Fe de Antioquia.
- Stay: Hostel la Finca or San Jeronimo Cabaña – Comfortable holiday home with a sauna close to the centre of town.
- By Megan from Megan Starr
15. San Gil, the adventure capital of Colombia
Don’t let the size of this small town fool you: There is no shortage of activities to do in San Gil.
Located in Santander Department, San Gil is known as the adventure capital of Colombia. Adrenaline junkies can choose from any number of heart-thumping outdoor activities, including white water rafting, rock climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, waterfall rappelling, and more.
For those into softer adventures, San Gil still has you covered. Right in town the Parque el Gallineral has 10 acres of walking trails among mossy beard-like trees that go by the same name. A 20-30 minute walk or quick taxi ride will get you to Pozo Azul, a lovely swimming hole with small waterfalls, perfect for cooling off on hot days.
The Chicamocha National Park offers a perfect balance between soft and hard adventure. Just an hour away from San Gil, the park sits in a deep canyon with no shortage of options for things to do. From spelunking to hiking to taking a ride on the 3.7 mile-long cable car (one of the longest in the world), Chicamocha won’t disappoint.
- Get there: 7 hours by road from Bogota; 3 hours by road from Bucaramanga International Airport (1-hour flight from Botoga).
- Stay: Hotel Campestre Casona del Camino Real – Breezy, comfortable rooms walking distance from the centre of San Gil and on the doorstep of the region’s best nature.
- By Jen from Long Haul Trekkers
Best places to visit in Colombia: Nature & adventure
16. Minca, mountains & waterfalls
Minca is a small mountainous town in Northern Colombia that is the perfect escape into nature from the party scene of Santa Marta. Busses run from town and it takes about 45 minutes to reach the centre.
What makes a trip to Minca special is staying in one of the incredible accommodations in the mountains such as Cases Viejas Hostel Lodge. Getting there requires an additional 20-minute drive in a jeep up the mountain, but it’s worth it.
The hostel overlooks gorgeous landscapes and offers several lounging areas to relax and take it all in. They also offer daily yoga classes, hikes to nearby waterfalls, and horseback rides. Plus, they source produce from a nearby local farm, so the food served onsite is fresh, healthy, and delicious.
Family style dinners, a bar and incredible views give this place a relaxed but social atmosphere. It is possible to visit Minca for just one night, but it’s highly recommended to stay for two for a more relaxing experience, or more if you have the time.
After all, could you ever get sick of this view?
- Get there: 45 minutes by road from Santa Marta.
- Day trip: Full-day coffee and cocoa tour from Santa Marta (8.5 hours; from $90 per person).
- Stay: Sierra Alta Finca Boutique – Gorgeous ecolodge with indoor-outdoor rooms, hammocks and gardens nestled in the mountains close to Minca and Santa Marta.
- By Lora from Explore With Lora
17. Salento, gateway to the Coffee Triangle
Located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee triangle, Salento is easy to fall in love with. Whether you’re looking to take a horseback ride to a deserted waterfall, play some tejo (there’s gunpowder involved in this local game!), or simply enjoy views of the valley from one of Salento’s many viewpoints, you’re bound to find something enchanting about this tiny Colombian town.
While you’re there, be sure to stroll down Calle Real to take in the incredibly colourful buildings that make up Salento and learn all about Colombia’s coffee (they don’t call it the coffee triangle for nothing).
Admire the views from Salento’s mirador, and, most importantly, pay a visit to the stunning Cocora Valley, which is the draw that brings many tourists to Salento in the first place.
It’s recommended to stay in Salento for at least three days. That will give you time to spend one day in the Cocora Valley and two closer to town. But you can certainly entertain yourself for much longer!
We extended our time in Salento twice, and ended up spending nearly a week there. If we hadn’t had a plane to catch, we would have stayed even longer!
- Get there: 1 hour by road from Pereira.
- Day tour: Salento coffee tour at Finca El Ocaso with hotel pick up from Salento (3.5 hours; from $75 per person).
- Stay: Hotel Kawa Mountain Retreat – Rustic bungalows with a luxury edge surrounded by palm trees in the heart of the coffee region.
- By Kate from Our Escape Clause
18. The Cocora Valley, one of the most famous places in Colombia
Wondering where to go in Colombia to see the famous towering palm trees? Just 9 miles (15km) from Salento, the Cocora Valley is the main attraction in this part of Colombia besides the coffee farms.
Visitors are greeted with a lush green valley as they enter the Los Nevados mountains. Cocora is the home of the wax palm, Colombia’s national tree, and also the tallest of all palm species.
For Europeans like myself, the typical image of palm trees is on a tropical sandy beach. Seeing incredibly tall palms set against mountains is even more charming.
There are several trails through Cocora Valley, covering the mountains, a small river and some waterfalls. Take a horse ride for the most authentic experience! These are very popular in the area and can take from 1-6 hours depending on your chosen route. But make sure you are fit enough if you opt for a longer trail.
We loved the ride, but the muscle soreness reminded us about it for a few days! Try to go in the morning, to avoid the big crowds; the scenery is better too, with the mist covering the mountains.
- Get there: 30 minutes by road from Salento.
- Stay: Bio Habitat Hotel – Immersive luxury rooms with hardwood floors and glass walls nestled in the treetops, with a hot tub, sauna and pool. Located in Armenia, convenient to Cocora Valley.
- By Alina from The Happy Kid
19. Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), Colombia’s best hike
Many travellers use Santa Marta as a base for a much bigger adventure that begins two hours away, deep within the jungle terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountain region.
In a four-day round-trip you can reach Colombia’s Lost City, an ancient archaeological site built by the Tayrona people in around 800 AD. It remained hidden until it was uncovered by looters around 50 years ago.
With the help of archaeologists and permission of the indigenous communities of the area, a small portion of it has been uncovered and is open for visitors ready to tackle this multi-day expedition by foot.
The trek is tough, with steep terrain and some treacherous paths, so it takes some stamina and determination. You can’t do it alone: You need both permits and a guide, since this is through a National Park and private indigenous lands. Therefore it is important that you choose a company where an indigenous guide will accompany you.
However hard it is to get there, you will be rewarded with a view of Colombia’s ancient history that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Get there: Approx. 1.5-2 hours by road to the trailhead from Santa Marta.
- Guided hike: 4-6 day trek to the Lost City from Santa Marta with a local guide.
- Stay: Cabaña Guarumo de la Sierra – Comfortable rooms with stunning mountain views in Santa Marta, close to the trailhead.
- By Becki from Borders of Adventure
20. Caño Cristales, the most beautiful river in the world
Nestled deep within the Parque Nacional Natural Tinigua in the remote Meta region, the Cano Cristales or ‘Crystal Channel’ is one of Colombia’s most incredible natural wonders.
Also called the ‘River of Five Colours’ or the ‘Red River’, the river bed is tinged with hues of yellow, green, blue, black and red, giving the water hole and surrounding rapids an otherworldly liquid rainbow appearance.
This natural phenomenon – created by a combination of quartzite mineral rocks, algae and plants – only occurs between the months of July and November.
As well as beautiful waterfalls and rapids, you can see circular depressions in the river. Known as ‘giant’s kettles’, these are formed by chunks of hard rock that make deep pits. You’ve never seen anything quite like the brightly coloured water falling and churning in the pits.
As a licensed tour guide and special permit is required to visit the river, some advanced planning is essential. Swimming is only allowed in designated areas.
The small town of La Macarena (which has an airport and weekly flights from Bogota) is an ideal base for visiting the Cano Cristales and exploring the rest of this wild interior landscape, where the Amazon meets the mountains.
- Get there: 45 minutes by road from La Macarena (a 75-minute flight from Bogota).
- Stay: Hostal Caño Nevera – A family run guesthouse with tidy rooms and gardens, close to La Macarena town centre and the edge of the national park. Staff can organise guides and transportation on your behalf.
21. Leticia, gateway to the Amazon Rainforest
Leticia is the capital of the Colombian Amazon. As there are no roads leading to the Amazon, flying into Leticia is the only way to launch your rainforest adventures.
Visiting Leticia is a weird experience. At first, you’ll notice chaotic traffic and shabby streets. Before night falls, you’ll be amazed how close to nature you are after all. Birds that are usually hard to spot are abundant in the city and every night you can witness a show of thousands of parakeets arriving at Santander Park.
Within a one-hour boat trip lies virgin rainforest, completely away from the crowds. Jungle hikes and night safaris reveal the residents of the Amazon: Sloths, caimans, alligators, toucans, boas and armadillos to name a few.
The best things to do in Leticia are all related to nature: Boat trips on the Amazon River and its tributaries, spotting pink and grey dolphins, hiking and kayaking, learning jungle skills, and meeting indigenous tribes. But even the city has some quirky sights, such as an ethnographic museum.
Visiting the border towns of Tabatinga (Brazil) and Isla Santa Rosa (Peru) are also popular afternoon activities in Leticia. Have lunch in Peru and grab a beer in Brazil!
- Get there: Fly into Alfredo Vasquez Cobo International Airport (2.25-hour flight from Bogota).
- Stay: La Ceiba, Amazonas – Immersive nature bungalows with four-poster beds located in a remote jungle village with access to hiking trails.
- By Niina from Bizarre Globe Hopper
22. San Agustin, an important archaeological site in the Andean Mountains
San Agustin is home to the most incredible archaeological site in all of Colombia, with dozens of ancient statues scattered around picturesque green hills with the Andes mountain range as a backdrop.
You should set aside three days for your visit. On the first day, take a half-day horse ride to some of the nearby statues, ending at the Archaeological Park.
First stop is El Tablon, where there are four statues. No one knows for sure the original purpose of the statues or much about the people who created them, but most of the icons guard tombs and they are commonly thought to be sacrifices to the gods.
From here, there are two more sites located down a steep incline, about 350 feet apart. El Purutal la Pelota has the only two coloured statues and La Chaquira has several intriguing anthropomorphic statues. The horse ride ends at the main Archaeological Park. It is also possible to take a collective bus or walk the 2 miles from town to the Archaeological Park instead of a riding horse.
In addition to the main park, there is the atmospheric ‘Forest of Statues’, a path through a forest with statues every few hundred feet along the way.
For the two remaining days of your visit, take a jeep tour into the surrounding areas to visit seven more sites, a sugar cane factory, and Salto Mortino and Salto Bordones, two dramatic waterfalls.
- Get there: 1 hour by road from Contador Airport in Pitalito (1.5 hour flight from Bogota); 2.5 hours by road from Guadalupe; 4.5 hours by road from Popayan.
- Stay: Masaya San Agustin – Ecolodge with beautiful self-contained cabins in the hills overlooking the river outside San Agustin town.
- By James Ian from Travel Collecting
23. Las Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia’s most spectacular church
Las Lajas Sanctuary is a beautiful basilica church located in the south of Colombia, close to the border with Ecuador. With its large bridge spanning over the Guaitara River and its beautiful Gothic architecture rising out from a canyon, it’s often regarded as one of the most original churches in the world.
Yet, despite being an important pilgrimage for national worshipers, the church remains a hidden gem that most foreign travellers aren’t aware of.
Las Lajas attracts indeed thousands of religious believers each year, who come from all over the country to address prayers to the Virgin Mary in the hope of a miracle.
It is in fact believed that the Virgin Mary’s face appeared on a rock on the canyon cliff to a local woman and her daughter in the 17th-century. Numerous miracles are claimed to have occurred in the same location, inspiring thenceforward the construction of a large basilica with an altar facing the rock where the Virgin Mary’s face first appeared.
Las Lajas is an incredible off-the-beaten-path destination to visit in Colombia – whether you are a believer or not. Easily reachable for about 2000 COP (less than 1 USD), the sanctuary is a great half-day excursion from Ipiales ,where most tourists only stop to change bus and continue their travels onward into Colombia or Ecuador.
If you aren’t in a hurry, make sure to take the time to discover this unique part of the Colombian countryside.
- Get there: 20 minutes by road from Ipiales; 30 minutes by road from San Luis Airport.
- Stay: Loft Hotel Ipiales – Modern rooms in Ipiales, 20 minutes by road from Las Lajas.
- By Jenny from Tales From the Lens
24. Concordia, coffee plantations near Medellin
With the most coffee trees of any township, Concordia is the star of the Colombian coffee region.
Here, it’s all about the berries and the beans. The hills that lead from Medellin to Concordia are covered with hectares upon hectares of plantations, most of them owned by smallholder farmers who sell their beans to local co-ops such as Andes, which has a warehouse you can visit just outside of Jardin.
If you want to visit farms and do a coffee tasting, it pays to join a tour to Concordia from Medellin. The town is about two hours by car, making it possible to visit as a day trip. We travelled with LandVenture Travel who offer a full-day trip to Concordia, returning to Medellin in the evening (or you can do like we did and spend the night in Jardin, with a tour of the town the next morning).
A full day was plenty enough to explore Concordia, although I would have been happy to overnight there and wake up in the pretty town.
- Get there: 2.5-3 hours by road from Medellin; 2-2.5 hours by road from Jardin.
- Stay: Rock Forest Glamping Finca – Stunning A-frame cottages set in the mountains of Concordia, close to coffee farms and with horseback riding available.
25. Lake Guatavita, the birthplace of the Legend of El Dorado
After visiting the Gold Museum in Bogota and hearing all about El Dorado, you will surely be intrigued to visit the place where the legend was born. Located less than 2 hours from Bogota by road, Lake Guatavita is a sacred Muisca site with an atmosphere of mystique that truly glimmers.
Among the Muisca people, Guatavita has long been a sacred site where new leaders were anointed. As the tradition goes, the nominated figure would be dusted in gold powder from head to toe then pushed out on a floating raft into the lake. Precious gold objects would then be cast into the waters as an offering to the gods.
Today, Laguna de Guatavita is a beautiful natural landscape with hiking trails. It’s best to go with a knowledgeable guide who can illuminate both the legends and the traditions of the Indigenous peoples who have long inhabited this area.
- Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Bogota.
- Guided tour: Half day trip from Bogota with an experienced guide (6 hours; from $115 per person).
- Stay: Encubo Glamping, funky shipping container glamping on the edge of the lagoon.
26. The Tatacoa Desert, surreal landscapes & stargazing
A world away from Colombia’s lush coffee plantations and dense rainforests, the Tatacoa Desert is one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Bearing some resemblance to the famous Rainbow Mountain in Peru, it offers remote hiking opportunities and thrilling adventures for active travellers.
Don’t let the name fool you: The Tatacoa Desert is not technically a desert, but rather it is a dried-up tropical forest. Over the decades, the weather has shaped sweeping canyons and peaked ‘dunes’ in striations of rust and amber. The formations are actually composed of soft soil, not rock, so visitors must take care not to damage them.
There are several different parts to Tatacoa, including the Red Desert and the Grey Desert, plus a pink lake. As the names suggest, each presents radically different hues of soil. The entire area is abundant with wildlife, and as you move around on the walking trails you will surely encounter birds, lizards, and even the occasional snake or scorpion.
For a memorable experience, spend the night camped out in the desert and do a spot of stargazing. Big skies that are free from light pollution make Tatacoa one of the best places in Colombia to gaze up at the galaxies.
Don’t miss the Piscina Mineral, an oasis-like artificial pool where you can cool off amongst the dunes.
- Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Neiva.
- Private tour: Multi-day desert adventure with transfers from Bogota.
- Stay: Tatacoa Star Eco Hotel, ecologically friendly bungalows in Villavieja close to the dunes and salt pans.
Best places to visit in Colombia: Beaches & islands
27. The Rosario Islands, pristine beaches & reefs
Located off the coast of Cartagena, the Rosario Islands (Corales Islas del Rosario) is an archipelago of 30 islands that form one of Colombia’s 46 Natural National Parks. If you’re interested in snorkelling or scuba diving, this is one Colombian destination you won’t want to miss.
This part of the Caribbean is known for its underwater ecosystem of vibrant coral reefs, as well as seagrass habitat and mangroves. The largest island, the aptly named Isla Grande, has resorts, lodges, camping areas and plenty of restaurants, while secluded beaches, an aquarium and open-sea oceanarium are located on small islets, all accessible by local ferry.
Bendita Beach lies just off the mainland peninsular and is one of the most popular white-sand beaches in the country. It’s a perfect day trip destination from Cartagena – or you can rent an overwater bungalow on one of the other islands for a more immersive nature experience.
- Get there: 45 minutes by ferry from Baru port to Isla Grande (1 hour by road from Cartagena).
- Stay: El Hamaquero Hostal EcoNativo – A popular eco-friendly hostel on the shoreline of Isla Grande, with direct access to the beach.
28. San Andres Island, the best sunsets in Colombia
San Andres is an island paradise that belongs to Colombia, even though it’s geographically closer to Nicaragua or Panama. With its remote location, it can only be reached by air. Luckily, flights are quite affordable from major Colombian cities, as low as 70 USD round-trip.
San Andres is famous for scuba diving. The coral and marine life is very well preserved and therefore San Andres is said to be one of the best diving spots in the world.
For those who aren’t interested in scuba diving, the sandy beaches are also world-famous. You can access tons of different beaches via the 16 mile-long ring road that loops the entire way around the island.
Some beaches are popular tourist spots, and some are completely deserted. One of my personal favourites is Rocky Cay. On this beach at low tide, you can actually walk a couple of hundred feet out into the water onto a sandbar to reach another island to explore.
- Get there: Fly into San Andres Island Airport (2.25-hour flight from Bogota).
- Stay: Le Castel Blanc Hotel Boutique – Gorgeous rooms with polished tile floors and wicker furniture, with an outdoor pool and tropical gardens. Set inside a Mediterranean-style mansion house 600m from the best swimming beaches.
- By Bailey from Destinationless Travel
29. Taganga, one of the best places to visit in Colombia for diving
Taganga is a small fishing village in Colombia’s north east. It can be reached by minibus from Cartagena, which shouldn’t take any longer than two hours. It’s worth a visit for two reasons: The scuba diving and the sunsets.
This little village is becoming increasingly popular among tourists because it neighbours the much bigger and more developed Santa Marta. Taganga allows visitors the opportunity to mingle with holidaying locals, enjoy delicious fresh fish, and watch one of the most amazing sunsets in South America.
On top of that are opportunities to dive. The little village has several experienced dive schools that can bring you out on snorkel and scuba excursions. It’s also possible to gain a certification in Taganga.
The coral and marine life is beautiful, healthy, and in abundance – something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.
If you’re simply visiting Taganga then two days will be enough. If you intend to dive, it’s recommended to stay for up to a week, which should give you enough time to learn and then recover.
- Get there: 15 minutes by road from Santa Marta.
- Stay: Hotel Cactus Taganga – Simple wooden bungalows with outdoor terraces overlooking the bay.
- By Eoin from Dollys Quest
30. Tayrona National Park, where the jungle meets the ocean
If you’re looking for an intrepid overnighter, consider a stay in Tayrona National Park, a jungle-laden coastal national park is located near Santa Marta on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coastline.
Visitors can access the park by foot, hiking one of the many scenic trails to a few camping locations. Unless you have hundreds of dollars to spend on a fancy ‘ecohab’ (luxury glamping huts set on a hill), take the plunge and sleep in a hammock at Cabo San Juan.
Rent a hammock for the night (the tents will flood if it rains, and keep in mind, it’s the jungle!) to fully enjoy the park. The hike in takes between 2.5-4 hours depending on how bad the mud is. The adventure is worth it.
Take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of the jungle. If you’re lucky you can spot howler monkeys in the trees. Opt to hike the nearby Nine Piedres or up to the Pueblito native village. Early morning hikers will be rewarded with cooler temperatures and stunning wildlife.
- Get there: 30 minutes by road from Santa Marta.
- Stay: Senda Koguiwa – Luxe bungalows nestled beneath the mountains with a huge outdoor pool just five minutes from the entrance to the National Park.
- By Meg from Fox in the Forest
31. Santa Marta, relaxation on the Caribbean coast
Santa Marta is spectacularly unspectacular, and that makes it the perfect spot for relaxing. There is not a lot to see or much to do: No well-maintained historic centre, no World Heritage Sites – just some picturesque streets’n’squares and a pleasant waterside promenade.
Santa Marta isn’t dull, it’s serene.
On Carrera 5, you can see how Colombians shop. And you can shop, too. I bought an unspectacular leather belt at a spectacular price: No tourist currency here, I paid the same as locals pay.
For those for whom local is not enough, there is Carrera 3. Here, you’ll find stylish restaurants and bars, designed mainly for tourists and trendy crowds from the nearby university. No Colombian town would be complete without some street art, and there are some pretty amazing murals on Carrera 3 and the adjacent streets.
Santa Marta is a great hub for day trips to beaches. The nicest beach in my opinion, Rodadero, is located south of Santa Marta and is a great place to spend a lazy day. Not lazy? Then you might want to visit National Park Tayrona. It’s only about an hour away by public bus. Adventurous folks start their trip to the Sierra Nevada and the El Dorado from Santa Marta.
- Get there: Fly into Simon Bolivar International Airport (1.25-hour flight from Medellin; 1.5-hour flight from Bogota).
- Stay: Hotel Boutique Maree – Elegant, modern suites with a generous outdoor pool located close to the city centre and beach. All the perks of a big-brand hotel but with an intimate, boutique feel.
- By Renata from bye:myself
Do you have a favourite place to visit in Colombia? Which of these destinations would you include in your Colombia itinerary? Let me know in the comments!
Colombia trip essentials
Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Colombia. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.
FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Colombia using the Skyscanner website.
VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa or a Health Declaration form for Colombia and apply for your documents online.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Colombia with HeyMondo, my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Book a safe and reliable private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Medellin, Bogota or Cartagena (prices start from $18 per group).
ESIM FOR COLOMBIA: Stay connected during your trip – pre-purchase an eSIM for Colombia and get online as soon as you arrive without having to visit a phone shop.
CAR HIRE: Use the Discover Cars website to compare prices and features across all the major car rental companies.
ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Colombia hotel deals on Booking.com.
CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best day trips, city tours, Colombian cooking experiences and more.
Best places to visit in Colombia: Share it on Pinterest
More Colombia travel resources
- 25+ amazing Colombia experiences, treks, workshops and more
- 30 best things to do in Medellin, my Medellin city guide
- 2 days in Medellin, ideal itinerary for first-timers
- Markets in Medellin, Colombian fruit, flowers and more
- 30 things to buy in Colombia
- Visiting Medellin’s Comuna 13, things to know before you go
- Guide to Jerico, Colombia’s loveliest pueblo
- El Despertar Hotel, Jerico’s best accommodation
- Guide to Jardin, Colombia’s most colourful town
- Colombian coffee tour, bean to cup in Concordia
- 20 best things to do in Bogota, a day or two in the capital
- Colombian cooking class, in the kitchen in Bogota
Thank you for the effort in putting this exhaustive list together.
It is definitely going to help us plan our time in Colombia fruitfully
Me encanto tu publicación, Colombia es realmente fascinante, ojala podamos viajar por todos estos lugares tan preciosos, sin embargo te falto en santander el cañon del chicamocha y barichara… te encantarán.
Thank you Marce! Muchas gracias!
Hi thanks for sharing this amazing blog.
Colombia is on my bucket list! There are so many beautiful places to visit in this country! Thank you for sharing the best of them!
Love this comprehensive guide. I’ve only ever heard of Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena, and now I have more destinations to add to my Colombia itinerary. Thank you!
Before reading this post, the only places I knew in Colombia were Medellin and Cartagena. I didn’t know Colombia has so much more to offer – especially the beaches look nice too! Thanks so much for this great post 🙂
Colombia is such a diverse country and I can’t wait to get back and explore, especially to add a few of these places I’ve never heard of! Beautiful photos and thanks for taking me back to one of my favorite countries.
Wow! Great list! Love the colors of Colombia!
Hi Emily! I’m Colombian and I must admit that I instantly blushed when I read the introductory paragraph. You’re so sweet, and I’m glad that you have had the opportunity to immerse yourself in my country. I’ve lived in Bogota all my life and my family loves to travel within the country, so I must say that I’m shocked by the fact that I hadn’t even heard of many of the places you mentioned here (considering the fact that I’ve been from La Guajira to Leticia). May God bless you and I hope that you continue marveling at the many things that dear Colombia has to offer.
Hi Miguel!
Thank you for the lovely comment and kind words. I had such a great time travelling in Colombia and I can’t wait to go back some day 🙂 I’m glad you found a few new places to discover on the list!
Stay well and I hope to see you in Colombia some day!
I´m a Colombian and I have visited most of the places you recommend. I agree with all of them, although I was surprised by the order of appearance. Yet I must say there are plenty more to visit. Just to give an example, if you want to have the full experience of Colombian food and Colombian party, you must visit Chocó. Is not a fancy place, but you will be amazed by the views of the wild, the happiness of the people and the mixture of flavors of the Pacific and the jungle.
I must visit Guadalupe, the only place you mentioned I have never been to.
Thank you.
Thanks so much for your comment and kind words, Jariro. I really enjoyed my time travelling around your country 🙂
Choco looks terrific! I’ll have to add it to my list for next time.
Take care!
Wow! Amazing list! I have spent time in Medellin & Leticia – adored them both. Next on my list is Cartagena and San Andres Island. Will definitely save this list for when I’m planning my next trip back to Colombia!
Oh goodness, it’s so hard to choose what place looks like most enticing! I’ve never been, so I don’t have a favorite, but I’d definitely have to visit the basilica and National Park! But I’d definitely have to include Cartagena and Guatape for history and color. Some of my favorite spots are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Great choices! I always seek out UNESCO Sites when I travel too – and Colombia has plenty of them!
Cartagena looks so beautiful and colourful! Great guide to an incredible country.
Wow, these look amazing! Colombia was never too high on my bucket list, but after seeing this post I think I may need to plan a visit soon (well, as soon as it’s safe to do so!). Thanks for sharing!
nice information.
Thanks
Wow nice info. Colombia is of the beautiful , attractive and most sight seeing places ,
Thanks admin
Thanks Sarah, so glad to hear you like my list of places to visit in Colombia!
Great post! Enjoyed reading but one small correction. Medellin was home to Pablo Escobar, not Cali. Great detail with everything else!!
Thanks, Greg! I believe the author meant that Cali was home to one of Escobar’s cartels. I’ve updated the post to clarify this.
Super amazing post!! Loved how you have covered all the big and small cities in Colombia.
What a great post! Colombia has been moving up on my bucket list, and after this post and seeing the amazing photos, it’s moved up even more. Thank you for the incredible travel inspiration and I’ll definitely be using this for when I’m able to visit. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the kind words, April! So glad you’ve found the post inspiring and helpful! Colombia has so much to offer!
After reading your post I think Colombia gets a bit of a bad wrap and is often over looked as a destination due to the perceived opinion that its not safe. I had never considered visiting Colombia for that reason. I might have to reconsider that decision.
…good point and here the same!
Raquira looks great. I’m glad your post goes outside of the usual places. Ciudad Perdida looks like a great adventure. And San Jeronimo. Is there a lot of street art there?
Thanks Sue! I think most cities and towns here have a bit of street art—the murals in San Jeronimo look particularly cool!
Great collection!! I have lived in Bogota for about six months now and love it here. It’s so fascinating to me that there is so much diversity in this country!! I’ve been meaning to put a bucket list together of places to visit before I leave, so thank you for putting this together for me! 😉 This will definitely be put to good use VERY soon.
That’s awesome, Mary! I am in Bogota now (but only for a night)—what an interesting place to live. There’s certainly a lot to do in Colombia… Perfect base for travelling and weekend trips! Enjoy!
Loved this post! I really get a sense of all the different landscapes that Colombia has to offer; from the beaches, to the countryside to the ruins! I’m saving this for my upcoming trip!
Colombia is on my bucketlist and this blog has been extra helpful. I love bloggers views on a country its alot more real. I have bookmarked this as m reference for my research for traveling. Great blog.
I would love to try the coffee in these areas!! It would be so fresh and delicious.
Goodness this post has soooo much information! You convinced me that I should go and visit lots of small towns in Columbia …then the second half of the post made me think that I need to visit spots out in the countryside too.
It’s all so gorgeous! <3
WOW – everyone’s photos are stunning. I have heard a lot of good things about Columbia in recent months. Las Lajas looks incredible! What made you want to go?
Thanks Olivia! We’re here for a friend’s wedding.
Such a colourful country rich in history and flavours. Would love to visit here with my boys. You’ve got my travel juices flowing!
It’s a very family-friendly destination in my opinion! I’m sure you and your boys would love it.
What an impressive guide. Such great insight on so many lesser known destinations! Definitely helpful for someone planning a trip to Colombia, and proving there is so much to see and do in that fantastic country.
Sooo much to do! We’ll definitely be back for more!
I’d love to visit Jardin especially after your description. I really like places that feel like they’re communities where people know and look out for each other. Plus those short drives to parks with waterfalls don’t sound bad either.
Me too, Katherine! Jardin has the best of both worlds.
Wow, this is such a comprehensive guide. All your pictures make me want to start planning a trip to Colombia. It seems to be such a diverse and beautiful country!
What a list! Will definitely use this post when planning our trip to Colombia.