OUTDOORS COLOMBIA

Colombia is best known as a destination for its Caribbean Coastlines and bustling cities like Cartagena and Medellín. However, an improved security situation in the country over the last decade has opened up many rural areas that are an outdoor traveler’s dream. All are hidden gems that remain lightly travelled and offer lots of incredible landscapes and chances to really have an adventure in the country, here is our pick of Outdoor activities in Colombia.

 

Caños Cristales

The Watery Rainbow of Caño Cristales

First up on this list of best outdoor adventures in Colombia is something you cannot see anywhere else in the world. In the river of Caño Cristales outside the tiny town of La Macarena, an aquatic plant called the macarenia clavijera grows. This plant sleeps dormant and absorbs sunlight from December to May. However, in the months from June to November, it blooms in bright reds, pinks, whites, and even shades of green. Yellow minerals in the water give the river the look of a rainbow. Besides experiencing this natural phenomenon, there is terrific hiking and lots of opportunities to see wildlife in this mostly untouched area of Colombia. While it’s possible to reach La Macarena over land, it’s a long and difficult journey so most travellers are better off booking flights from Bogotá. There are strict rules about bringing in single-use plastics and chemicals like insect repellent or deodorant to help protect the river and the beautiful plants that grow there.

 

The Amazing Landscapes of Guaviare

 

The lesser-known destination of Guaviare, is located about 8 hours south of Bogotá by bus, it is one of Colombia’s best-kept secrets. There are a variety of outdoor experiences to enjoy here. You can see the same flower that grows in Caño Cristales in a smaller river here at Caño Sabana. You can see amazing rock structures such as the Gate of Orion and a City of Stone (Ciudad Piedra) evidence of this area’s history of being covered by water millions of years ago. There are 3 sites where you can see ancient indigenous rock wall paintings: Cerro Azul, Nuevo Tolima, and Raudal del Guayabero. All three have terrific hikes with a high probability of seeing monkeys and other wildlife along the way in addition to the neat and mysterious paintings. Other excellent hikes and places to explore in Guaviare include the natural rock tunnels of Los Tuneles, the natural swimming pools of Los Pozos Naturales, and the picturesque landscape of La Laguna Negra.

 

Guaviare

 

Safari In La Aurora

La Aurora Reserve in Casanare is probably Colombia’s second best-kept secret. This extensive tract of plains lies between the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest. While much of the land is used for cattle, it is also a haven for wildlife. You can enjoy a safari here that is the best wildlife spotting in all of Colombia. Many species of birds, anacondas, capybaras, deer, turtles, caimans, pumas, jaguars, and giant anteaters all call this area home. Some rarer animals like anacondas and the giant anteaters are easier to spot during the dry seasons from June to August and December to March when their range is reduced. However, the wet season offers a prettier landscape with the plains flooded and lush green and many more opportunities to see migratory birds.

 

See The Humpback Whales on The Pacific Coast

Another of the best outdoor adventures in Colombia is to go whale watching on the Pacific Coast. Humpback whales migrate to the warmer waters here from Antarctica every year from July to October. They mate and return the following year to give birth. In addition to seeing the whales, you can also see Colombia’s rugged and mostly undeveloped Pacific Coast. Lush jungle and unspoiled beaches are the added bonus to seeing whales. There are several popular places to see the whales, the best being the small town of Nuquí, both of which are reachable by charter flights from Medellín and have nice ecolodges and hostels.

 

Hump Back Whale

 

Go Horse Riding in Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is a national park situated in the center of Colombia's coffee-growing region. The valley is home to the world's tallest palm tree, the wax palm, also Colombia's national tree. While you're here, you'll have a chance to visit a Colombian coffee farm. What better way of experiencing this cloud forest region than by horseback riding in Valle de Cocora, a fun way to explore the park's natural beauty.
Cocora is easily accessible from the charming town of Salento. Rubber boots are a good idea, given how muddy the trail can get. Bring a lightweight rain jacket as it rains often.

 

Cross The Desert to Punta Gallinas

Most of these outdoor adventures in Colombia have taken you to lush, green jungles filled with wildlife. This outdoor adventure is totally different. In Colombia’s far north, you’ll find the desert peninsula of La Guajira. At the northern tip of this peninsula, you’ll find Punta Gallinas, the most northern point on the South American continent. Nearby, you can visit the massive and rolling Taroa Dunes that slope down to the Atlantic. It’s a very neat sight, like something from another planet.

 

Punta Gallinas

Tayrona National Park

Located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, about five hours east of Cartagena, Tayrona National Park (Parque Tayrona) is a relatively undeveloped national park where the jungle meets secluded beaches. Relax in a hammock, and allow time to slow down while you treasure what many travelers consider to be one of the best beaches in South America. Take your time hiking along the beaches that line the coast until you reach Playa Cabo San Juan.

 

The Lost City

 

Also, in Tayrona National Park, you can hike to a lost city, the magnificent outdoors is the activity of choice in Tayrona National Park. If you want to feel like Indiana Jones, add The Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida) to your bucket list of things to do in Colombia. While this archaeological site is not as grand as Machu Picchu, many travelers to Colombia have proclaimed it to be one of the best adventures in South America. The Lost City can spend up to a week in the Colombian jungle. The out and back journey begins in Santa Marta or Taganga to La Ciudad Perdida. Note that it is not possible to do this excursion without a guide.

 

 

The Lost City

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in San Andres and Providencia

Put on your snorkel gear and get in the water to enjoy crystal clear waters and excellent snorkeling and diving off the coast of San Andres and Providencia. It's some of the most beautiful turquoise water in South America and one of the top things to do in Colombia.
 

 

San Andres