29 Unforgettable Things to Do in Colombia in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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29 of the best things to do in Colombia this year

Explore Cartagena’s colonial Old Town

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Leo from Safari Nomad

→ Recommended: Private city walking tour of Cartagena

Tour a Colombian coffee plantation in Eje Cafetero

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Leyla from Women on the Road

→ Recommended: Half-day coffee plantation tour from Medellin

Walk amongst the wax palms in the Cocora Valley

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

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

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

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

→ Recommended: Cocora, Salento and Filandia Tour

Climb El Penol in Guatape

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Cynthia from ​​Sharing the Wander

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

Witness Colombia’s transformation on a tour of Comuna 13

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

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

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

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

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

→ Recommended: Comuna 13 graffiti and street food tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step back in time in charming Jerico

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summit Monserrate for the best views of Bogota

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

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

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

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

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

By Sean from Living Out Lau

→ Recommended: Monserrate and La Candelaria private tour

Get back to nature in Tayrona National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

Hike to Ciudad Perdida, Colombia’s Lost City

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

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

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

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

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

By Roshni from TopTreehouses.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Adam from CartagenaExplorer.com

→ Recommended: Catamaran excursion to the Rosario Islands

Walk underwater on San Andres

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Katie From KatieCafTravel.com

→ Recommended: Aquanautas Helmet Diving in San Andres

Explore the Forest of Statues in San Agustin Archaeological Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By ​​Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Attend Feria de Cali, Colombia’s premier salsa festival

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

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

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

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

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

By Maddalena from Venice Travel Tips

Take a street art tour in Cartagena’s Getsemani

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

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

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

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

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

By Vanessa from Wanders Miles

→ Recommended: Graffiti tour in Getsemani

Learn how to make empanadas at a Colombian cooking class

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

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

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

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

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

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

→ Recommended: Bazurto Market tour and cooking class in Cartagena

Eat tropical fruits at the markets in Medellin

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

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

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

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

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

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

→ Recommended: Medellin exotic fruits tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

By JB from Will Fly for Food

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Melinda from Mel On The Go

→ Recommended: Private transfer to Andres in Chia from Bogota

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Babs from Mums on Flip Flops

→ Recommended: Villa de Leyva day trip from Bogota

Tour the incredible Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

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

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

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

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

By Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

→ Recommended: Group tour to Zipaquira with guaranteed daily departure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel

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

Conquer the Paramillo del Quindio in Los Nevados National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Nina from Where in the World is Nina?

Count the colours at the Caño Cristales ‘Rainbow River’

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

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

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

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

Have a wildlife encounter at the National Colombian Aviary in Baru

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Ines from Randomtrip

Get off the beaten track in the otherworldly Tatacoa Desert

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dan from Urban Abroad

→ Recommended: Private tour to the Tatacoa Desert from Bogota

Stand at the edge of the continent at Punta Gallinas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Adam from CartagenaExplorer.com

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

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