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Published: 27-04-2022
Colombia is slowly establishing itself as a major tourist destination, after a somewhat shady past, drawing in travellers to visit its vast rainforest, Caribbean coastline, endangered animals, unique ecosystems and the Andes. A number of exciting adventures await you in Colombia with the biodiverse environment creating the perfect location for many activities. Here are just some reasons to visit Colombia.
Jaguar in the Colombian Amazon
Biodiversity
Colombia hosts close to 10% of the planet’s biodiversity and is the second most biologically diverse country in the world. It tops the list for bird and orchid species diversity and second on the list for butterflies, plant, freshwater fish, and amphibian species. Colombia continues to be one of the top destinations for nature-based tourism and is a must-do for eco-travellers.
Hummingbird in Quindio
Colombian cuisine is a mixture of culinary traditions from its 6 main regions
If you like to sample different food combinations and would like to tantalise your taste buds to then Colombia is the perfect destination for you. Colombian cuisine has a little bit of everything! Its cuisine is versatile, authentic, and rustic yet refined. This makes it very easy for a “foody” to enjoy all of Colombia’s culinary delights. With each of Colombia´s different regions offering their own native ingredients, specialty recipes, and distinct characteristics that combine Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences in just about every dish. Due to the range of climates represented by each region, Colombian cuisine is especially diverse and includes fresh ingredients, lots of protein and is usually served in generous portions across the country.
Ajiaco
Colombia is best explored through a multi- day holiday
From endless rainforests to deserts, stunning volcanoes, vast plains, and beautiful paradisiacal beaches, Colombia has something for everyone! The perfect example of this is the “River of Five Colours,” considered by many as the most beautiful river in the world. It is located in Caño Cristales in La Macarena and Its magnificent colours are due to algae found in the river’s clear waters, which explains why its beauty attracts thousands of visitors. The Tatacoa Desert in the north is the second-largest arid zone in Colombia after the Guajira Desert and is not actually a desert but a dry forest. In the Caribbean region, La Sierra Nevada in the Santa Marta National Natural Park is the only mountain overlooking the ocean with a summit that reaches over 3,000m. The park is home to three indigenous communities and a diversity of ecosystems. Plus, we cannot leave out the fact that the Cocora Valley, in the Quindio region, is home to Colombia’s national tree and the tallest wax palm in the world.
The coffee triangle
Experience some living indigenous Cultures
One of the most important aspects of Colombian heritage is undoubtedly the presence of active indigenous communities. Although they form 4% of the Colombian population, there are more than 87 indigenous groups scattered throughout the country, of which only a few are open to sharing their culture and traditions with travellers. Visiting some of these communities is one of the most unique experiences that you can have in Colombia. It is a great privilege to be able to interact with the indigenous population and learn about their traditions, perspectives, and ways of life in tribes such as the Embera and Wayuu tribes amongst others.
Wayuu indigenous tribe
Geographical areas
Colombia offers experiences for every kind of traveller; adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration abound! From the winding rivers and magnificent beaches, to snow-capped mountain tops and magical plains! Due to the altitude differences among the various regions of Colombia, different climates can be experienced from the city you choose to base yourself and what kind of experiences you are looking for.
Wax palms, Cocora
Bogota is the nation’s capital and the largest city in Colombia. Its architecture offers a mix of modern and colonial styles. Against the backdrop of this fusion between past and present, many visitors find Bogota to be an ideal destination for exploring the country’s rich history, gastronomy, art, culture, business, and more in this South American metropolis!
Bogota main Plaza
In contrast, Cartagena offers a very different experience. This beautiful coastal city is located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. Its charming colonial architecture plays host to plenty of attractions, a vibrant nightlife, numerous cultural festivals, and never-ending impressive landscapes. The beaches and laid-back vibe invite you to sightsee, relax, and have fun while enjoying the refreshing breeze, warm weather, and warm ocean.
Cartagena de las indias
Colombia’s world-famous coffee
If you’ve ever tasted a cup of Colombian coffee, you already know why it is considered by many to be the best in the world. Prepared with “superior” Arabica beans, in comparison with other countries, Colombian coffee is cultivated by hand, and only the ripest cherries are selected for harvest. Ultimately, this leads to a sweeter and a more complex flavour to start your morning. Colombia’s “Coffee Triangle” region feature the topographical, climatological, and altitudinal characteristics that are perfect for growing coffee. For this and several other technical reasons, a cup of Colombian coffee will always be exceptional and never disappoint. And, it gets even better; most of the haciendas that grow coffee are open to the public. This means that visitors can tour the fields and observe the entire process from its harvest to the cup!
Fresh coffee berries
An excellent destination for the whole family!
Traveling to Colombia is not like any other trip, especially given the variety of activities on offer, be they adventure-, nature-, or culture-based. And, with so many kid-friendly activities, you can take part in experiences that your whole family will enjoy! A destination like this can enrich your knowledge of the world on so many levels and provide lifelong memories for everyone. Excellent family trips and kid-friendly activities are:
Gold Museum + Monserrate in Bogota
Graffiti Tour in Medellin
Coffee Inspiration Tour + Coffee Park in Armenia
Day tour of Rosario Island + San Felipe Fortress in Cartagena
Family beach holiday in Colombia
Colombia is a solo travellers paradise
After experiencing years of internal conflict, the nation has reinvented itself and has gone to great lengths to offer travellers a safe, secure, and welcoming travel experience. One of the concerns when traveling solo to any destination is, will the people be friendly? In Colombia, you don’t have to worry about this! Colombian people are famous for their friendly hospitality, and will go above and beyond to offer a helping hand when you need it. The only thing you need to arrive with is an open mind and be prepared to observe Colombia’s prowess.
Solo traveller in Colombia
Colombian rhythms
Colombia has a rich musical heritage. The cultural and ancestral influences of each particular region have produced a mix of harmonious rhythms and unique musical styles, such as cumbia, vallenato, salsa, and champeta. Each of these are identifiably Colombian and have inspired numerous dance styles that are enjoy throughout all of Latin America.
Colombian Garifuna group
You can witness for yourself Colombia’s transformation process
It is no secret that Colombia has gone through some challenging times. That said, in the last couple of decades, the nation has experienced a massive transformation. Although all of the internal conflicts have left a mark on citizens and residents throughout Colombia, it is never reflected in their way of being because Colombians are always warm and welcoming. Their genuine charisma and hospitality are visible everywhere and it is fascinating to see how the people affected most by the country´s former upheaval, have given themselves a new lease on life, especially in the Comuna 13 located in Medellin. This neighbourhood abandoned its darker days in favour of a thriving art scene that showcases music, graffiti, and dance. It has become a true highlight for many visitors to Medellin.
