Whether you're a first-time traveler, a veteran or just curious, Colombia has a little something for everyone. It's no surprise that it has topped the lists of The Best Places to Visit in the World.
The Caribbean coast is Colombia's crown jewel, but if you can't stand the humidity of the beach, head to the mighty Andes or even the Amazon rainforest! If you're a thrill seeker, there are also some of the most renowned adrenaline-filled activities in the country.
1. San Agustin
San Agustin is an off-the-beaten path destination with high waterfalls, a colonial town, an archaeological UNESCO site and indigenous history.
The biggest draw is the UNESCO World Heritage Site called the San Agustin Archaeological Park, which contains the largest collection of pre-Columbian megalithic statues on the continent. The park also has tombs, terraces and burial mounds.
The park is just a short drive outside of town. We recommend spending a day exploring the various sites.
2. Tayrona National Park
Tayrona National Park is one of Colombia’s most popular attractions and is a must-visit during a trip to the country. The park is famous for its natural beauty and is also a great spot for birdwatching.
The park is home to hundreds of different birds, including keel-billed toucans, white-necked puffbirds, blue-headed parrots and military macaws, as well as several species of mammals. It’s also a great place for snorkeling and diving, as it contains 30 square kilometers (12 mi2) of protected maritime area.
You can easily get to the park from Santa Marta, but it’s important to know that the park does close for part of the year. This is to allow nature to have the space it needs and indigenous groups that live in the park time to enjoy themselves without being crowded by tourists.
3. Guatape
A two-hour drive from Medellin, Guatape is a charming town located on the edge of a man-made lake. It’s a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the bustling city of Medellin and spend some time relaxing on the water!
One of the most iconic attractions in Guatape is La Piedra del Penol, a massive rock that dominates the landscape. The top of the rock offers breathtaking views, and it’s a great place to go hiking or climbing.
Another must-see in Guatape is the colorful houses that line up along the ridge. These are called ‘zocalos’ and have been painted with amazing murals.
4. San Jeronimo
San Jeronimo is a small town that is a great place to visit when visiting Antioquia. It is a perfect spot to explore the coffee belt and the colourful colonial towns that make up this area of Colombia.
This town is a great place to spend some time, especially if you are on a budget. The town has many different places to stay, from hotels and hostels to fincas and even a beach hotel!
The main draw here is the Monastery of San Jeronimo, which is a very well preserved Renaissance jewel. The church and sacristy are both impressive.
5. Minca
One of Colombia’s most remote and beautiful places, Minca is a tiny mountain town that is now popular with backpackers and locals alike. While it was a paramilitary stronghold for decades, it has become the perfect destination for those looking to get away from it all and unwind in the mountains.
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range surrounds the town and it is dotted with stunning waterfalls, jungle, and cloud forest. It is a perfect place for hiking, birdwatching and relaxing!
You can also join a wildlife tour or visit some of the many coffee and cacao farms in the area. If you are feeling really adventurous, a two-day hike to Cerro Kennedy is a must do! It is a challenging trek, but it will be worth it when you arrive at the top.
