There are not usually any problems for minority groups in Colombia; it is actually one of the friendliest and open-minded countries in Latin America. Bigger cities are open-minded in general; however, in smaller rural communities, attitudes may be a little more conservative. Don't forget that Colombia is a roman catholic country, after all! It is a good plan to be more discreet in the more rural areas, who still sometimes pretend that homosexuality doesn't exist or maybe a little more conservative in their views. Still, on the whole, there are no issues in Colombia, only positive vibes.&nbsp;

LGBTQ

Colombia is infamous for its drugs production. Please remember that the majority of Colombians do not use drugs and foreigners using drugs in Colombia are frowned upon. Sometimes, being the scapegoats for the problems with regards to drugs in the country. After all, it was a popular destination for the cocaine exports. The police and drugs sellers often work together to set up tourists, so avoid anyone offering cocaine or marijuana. The police will expect a hefty payment for you to stay out of prison!&nbsp;
Burundanga is a popular substance to render victims' unconscious and is native to Colombia. This can be used to spike drinks, cigarettes, candy or gum. Do not accept anything from a stranger&hellip;. it could be spiked!&nbsp;
Be aware of these types of issues which are not common but do happen and can be easily avoided.&nbsp;
With regards to documents, it is always best to carry the photocopy of your passport as identification and leave the original in a hotel safe.&nbsp;

DRUGS

Safety in Colombia is certainly a lot better than it used to be! However, it is still necessary to take some precautions. Please remember that in general, Colombians are happy, fun-loving and friendly people and there are very few reasons why you should experience otherwise. There are some basics to remember and you will have a wonderful time in the country! &nbsp;
Avoid wandering around unknown areas or deserted streets. Also, avoid using ATMs at night. Avoid anything to do with the drugs trade and be wary of any new "friends" offering cigarettes or drinks if you have only just met them. The border towns with Venezuela are a little dangerous at the moment with the on-going problems in Venezuela, so be extra careful if crossing the border there.&nbsp;
In the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/iconic-colombia" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/iconic-colombia">larger cities,</a> theft is common. If you leave your things unattended, they will disappear. Pickpockets are common as are distraction techniques, so be aware as thieves generally work in groups. Fake policemen are common and can catch you off guard. In general, police do not approach tourists unless you are misbehaving, of course. If "fake" police approach you, always look for a uniformed officer to help you out. Undercover policemen are very rare and wouldn't approach a tourist in any case! Inside banks, people can pretend to be bank officials &ndash; they are not&hellip;.. No one will come and offer help unless you ask for it in a bank.&nbsp;
A lot of travellers carry a bundle of cash in small notes on them, to hand-over in the case of robbery. The main thing to remember is to hand over what you have in the case of a robbery. Always remember that people have been killed for less! While rare, robberies do happen. Do not expect anyone to help you in the case of a robbery; you will be alone. This is why it's always best to be compliant and hand over what you have on you and don't take any valuables along with you. They are better stashed in your hotel safe.&nbsp;

Safety

Most English speaking countries will not need a visa to enter Colombia. You are usually given a 90-day tourist visa on entrance to the country. Please check with your Colombian consulate if you are in any doubt.&nbsp;

Visas

The national dish is called The Bandeja Paisa which originates in Antioquia. The is definitely a dish for those with an appetite and consists of pork sausages, ground beef, chicharrones, rice, beans, chorizo, avocado and fried eggs! Not for the feint-hearted!&nbsp;
Tamales are a popular snack and come in a variety of forms but always wrapped in a banana leaf. This mashed corn is usually mixed with a meat of some type, onions and tomatoes.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Arroz con Pollo Each country has its arroz con pollo and Colombia is no different! Here the rice is yellow and made with cumin and the chicken is tender with mixed vegetable. This is a staple meal in most homes.&nbsp;
Fritanga is a variety of grilled meat and fried plantains that usually contain pork, chicken and beef. This is usually eaten with toothpicks so don&rsquo;t wait for the cutlery to arrive to the table!&nbsp;
Cocadas Blancas are a popular dessert in Colombia made from coconut similar to a macaroon&hellip; definitely something for the sweeter tooth! &nbsp;
Enyucado is cake made from grated yucca, sugar, coconut and little touch of aniseed and is surprisingly delicious!&nbsp;
Aguardiente is the popular tipple made from aniseed and sugar cane.&nbsp;

Eating and drinking

Health services in the cities are of a good standard. The issue is that you will need to pay at the moment you receive treatment, so please remember to ask for receipts if you will be making a claim on your travel /health insurance. Health insurance in Colombia is essential, so make sure you have a suitable travel and health insurance policy that covers you for all eventualities. As you head to more rural regions, decent health care is a lot less sparse and will definitely not speak English, so come prepared for this. It is always a good idea to visit your travel clinic to see the recommended vaccines. As in most of Latin America, mosquito-related illnesses are common, so the best thing to do is avoid getting bitten. Zika and malaria are relatively common, as is dengue fever. Take repellent and wear light coloured clothing, especially in jungle regions.&nbsp;
Pharmacies are well-stocked and cheaper than in the UK or the USA.&nbsp;
Water should be treated and filtered outside of the major cities. It is highly likely that it will make you sick if not.&nbsp;
If you become ill when travelling in rural regions, it is always best to get back to a city for treatment, especially if it is severe. Take a first aid kit with you with insect repellent and creams for infections, as especially in the jungle, as cuts can easily turn into infections.&nbsp;

Health and Insurance

The currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso, often abbreviated to COP. Denominations come in notes of $1000, $2000, $5000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000 and $100,000. The exchange rate varies, but to make a rough estimation, $10,000 COP is equal to $5 USD! &nbsp;
The majority of banks in Colombia will not change money. There are specialist exchange banks, however, who do. These are a better and more secure option than the money changers on the street where false notes and a variety of dodgy transactions could and often do happen!&nbsp;
Fake notes are an issue in Colombia and common places to receive them are in taxis, from the street money changers and in bars. Also worn and dirty notes are sometimes not accepted, so try not to receive these older notes and carry small denominations on you to help avoid any issues.&nbsp;
ATMs are widely available and international cards are accepted. You can pay in most places with a credit card; however, online transactions are still a rarity, except for the major airlines or hotels.&nbsp;

Money

Colombians love their carnivals! They are happy, friendly, party goers and will include you in the festivities. Barranquilla has the biggest folkloric carnival in Colombia and it is celebrated between the 13th and 16th of February each year. Carnival is a mixture of the Spanish influence, the Afro Colombian influence and the indigenous and a sight to behold!&nbsp;
Colombians are also Football-bonkers! If there is a Colombia match or a local team playing, you will certainly know about it! Athletico National from Medellin is probably the most successful team, but the national team has been decent for some time now. Try and catch a game while you are there!&nbsp;
The Arts are usually promoted via the Universities and colleges in the cities of Colombia. Gabriel Garcia Marquez won the Nobel prize for literature in 1982 and Fernando <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-colombia" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-colombia">Botero </a>is recognised worldwide for his painting and sculptures.&nbsp;

Culture

Hotel options are comprehensive and varied, ranging from small family-run places to 5-star hotels. Cities have a wide range of accommodations and for all budgets. There are many reasonable backpacker's hostels in the big cities also, as well as boutique hotels and family-run houses and hotels. The luxury 5-star hotel chains are all present in the major cities, including Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt and Novotel.&nbsp;
Once you leave the bigger cities with options abound, the more remote areas will have limited accommodation options. There are a great range of boutique hotels throughout the cities and the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/coffee-triangle-of-colombia" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/coffee-triangle-of-colombia">coffee growing regions.&nbsp;</a>
There are also a wide range of backpacker hostels and family-run hostels or "casa familiares" throughout Colombia. The national parks have camping facilities as well as being able to rent a hammock for the evening! Just remember the insect repellent! If you are looking for a longer-term option, then you may prefer to rent an apartment. Air B and B is a popular choice and even hostels rent out long term mini-apartments and will give you a better price the longer you stay!&nbsp;
Camping is an option, especially in the national parks and along the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/multi-destination-coastlines" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/multi-destination-coastlines">Caribbean coast </a>near the beaches. It's not a major camping country and you need to take extra care with your belongings, but there are options available.&nbsp;

Accommodation

Men in Colombia will greet with eye contact and a firm handshake. Once men know each other well, they will often hug. Women will often take your arm at the elbow instead of the handshake and this will become a kiss on the cheek once women know each other. Between men and women can be any combination of the above depending on how well people know each other. Buenos Dias, Buenas Tardes or Buenas Noches are the associated verbal Greetings depending on the time of the day.&nbsp;

Greetings

Colombia is rapidly becoming one of the coolest destinations in Latin America. For over 30 years the country was riddled with civil war, the fallout of the illicit drugs cartels and generally was not a safe place to visit. Over the past few years, due to increased political stability, economic growth and its inherent naturally diverse destinations, Colombia has become one of the most popular countries to visit in South America. The incredible jungle areas, the stunning and pristine Caribbean and Pacific coastline, unique <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/hato-la-aurora-extension">biodiversity</a> and range of animal species and its Andean region are all outstanding reasons to visit the country. With over 35% of the country being covered by The <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/chiribiquete-national-park-remote-nature">Amazon Rainforest,</a> the country is home to unique wildlife as well as indigenous communities still in existence today. The stunning beaches and eclectic, exciting cities are other reasons to visit Colombia. The architecture is beautiful and the climate is amazing, all year round. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/classic-colombia">Medellin</a> is a modern metropolis that has actually won awards for its regeneration strategies and since 2016 when the country signed a peace agreement the country is now on an upward climb to promote tourism and continue its development as a touristic destination and a travellers preferred option. The diving is divine, the food is fabulous and the people are the definition of friendly&hellip;.Of course, this was also the home of Pablo Escobar the infamous drugs baron in Colombia. When he died, the country started to recover somewhat and now, even his family home, is a tourist attraction and theme park! The food is amazing and the array of natural products astounding, did I mention that their coffee isn't bad either! This country is huge and there is so much to see and do, it's worth extending your trip or at least make sure you book enough time off work to make the most of this incredible country!&nbsp;

You can check our safety protocols in the following link: https://www.colombia.travel/en/covid-19-information

What are the health and safety protocols used during the trip?

We do not include travel or health insurance and we strongly recommend a comprehensive travel insurance for any unexpected circumstances. This is not obligatory, however. An full travel insurance policy that covers cancellations and delays as well as medical insurance.

Do I need travel insurance? What trip insurance do you recommend?

We suggest that you speak with your doctor to ensure that you are up-to-date with the recommended vaccinations when traveling to the destination.

What vaccinations do I need for the trip?

We suggest that you speak with your doctor to ensure what medications you will need to bring to the destination. Pharmacies and drugstores are common in all cities, however, it is not certain that you will be able to find a specific drug that you can find in your country of origin.

Which medications should I bring from home?

As in any city in the world, there can be pickpockets in crowded places. We suggest being vigilant at all times, but if you are in a group you will always be safer.

How safe is the destination?

We do not include the cost of any domestic or international flight in any of our programs. These services must be booked independently by each guest.

Are flights included in the tour?

Yes, hotels will charge the cost of a double room as standard, so a single supplement will be charged if you are traveling alone.

If I travel alone will I be charged a single supplement?

VA Expeditions is supported by Valencia Travel, a company with more than 12 years of foundation with a solid financial position. We have insurance from the insurance company La Positiva, that supports us and protects our guests from any eventuality at the destination, covering our guests for more than 5 million US dollars.

Is it safe to book with Valencia Travel?

Each trip is customizable, but there may be additional restrictions and expenses in each case. We suggest contacting your sales representative for more information.

Can the packages on the website be customized?

Yes, in addition to multi-day programs, we offer half-day experiences and excursions without overnight, which you can purchase as additional services. In case you wish to purchase one of these services, you can ask your guide, the transfer representative or your sales representative to provide you with the support you need.

Do you offer only multiday packages or do you also offer day trips?

Yes, you can add additional or optional services to your regular tour. We appreciate contacting your sales representative for any changes you wish to make.

Can I purchase additional services after I have made my reservation and paid?

Yes, you can travel with children and we have many activities to do as a family, however, depending on your itinerary, some experiences can be a bit demanding for young children. As a recommendation, we suggest that you ask your sales consultant if the tour you wish to book is suitable for children.

Can I travel with children? Are there age restrictions?

We work with a maximum group size of 12 passengers for sustainability reasons and a more personaized experience.

How big are the group sizes ?

We suggest making your reservations at least one month before your trip in order to reserve the best hotels, transportation and services for your travel dates, however, in last minute cases, we can reserve up to 15 days in advance.

How far in advance should I book a package?

We suggest consulting with your embassy to review any documents, tests or special visa you need for your trip.

What documents do I need for my trip?

The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). In large cities there is a good chance that you will find ATMs or ATMs, however, we suggest that you do not rely entirely on this solution, as it may not be enabled to work with your bank.

What kind of currency do they use at the destination? Are ATM easily accessible?

Yes, we cater for all special dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any allergies or special dietary needs.

I have dietary restrictions Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?

As a sustainable travel company, we are in constant search of how we can improve the sustainability of our operations, that is why we carry out the following activities to generate a fair and sustainable development in our areas of operation: We are now in the process to get the certification of Travel Life to be more sustainable.&nbsp; Travel Life is an internationally recognized, GSTC-Global Sustainable Tourism Council accredited training, management &amp; certification program in sustainability in tourism. Travelife is a three-stage certification program for tour operators and travel agents: (1) Travelife Engaged; (2) Travelife Partner and (3) Travelife Certified. We are at stage 1 &ndash; Travelife Engaged. We are working to move forward to stage 2 - Travelife Partner.
We have implemented different practices to be more sustainable, please find attached our sustainability Policy to know some of them.
We promote activities like visits to social and environmental projects.
Some experiences that we offer include a donation to support local communities.
We decided to stop including single use plastic bottles in our transfers and excursions. We are now suggesting our clients to bring their own bottle of water, or we can include a bottle of water with a filter since it is not always possible to drink water from the tap in Colombia. When passengers arrive we share a list with the places they can refill the bottle according to the itinerary they have.
&nbsp;

What does the company do for the sustainability of its operations?

Tips are not included in the cost of the tour. You should plan to tip 10% in restaurants and for your guided services, however, tipping is never required.

Are tips included in the price? If not how much should I budget for tips?

Cultural norms vary within each Latin American country, even within each city within the country, however, we recommend the following measures to have a pleasant visit in each destination: Latin American culture in general tends to be closer and more informal than in others cultures, so there is usually always a friendly approach in all conversations, and going directly to the point could be considered offensive to some people. Personal space can be much shorter as well, but without being interpreted as sexual in nature.&nbsp; The schedules are also usually more relaxed and informal, however, this is not the case of VA EXPEDITIONS, since we will always respect the hours indicated in your itinerary. This may be different for other appointments that you can book on your own at other locations.

What general norms of culture should I take into account at the destination?

This depends on each itinerary, and will be indicated in the detail of the day. However, our itineraries always usually include free times to offer more flexibility to our guests.&nbsp;

How much free time will I have during the tour?

For any emergency, we appreciate contacting the following number: +57 316 694 8013

What number can I contact if I have an emergency during my trip?

At VA Expeditions we believe that every action we take should generate a positive impact on the communities and the environment of our entire production chain, which is why we carry out various activities focused on this objective. For an example of our sustainable projects, visit the following link: https://valenciatravelcusco.com/archivos/socialprojectscolombia.pdf

What sustainable activities can I do at the destination?

All our guests have 24/7 support for any type of emergency or eventuality. For emergencies you can contact the following number: +57 316 694 8013. For general inquiries, you can write to us at the following email: info@valenciatravelcusco.com&nbsp;

What kind of support will I receive during my trip?

This depends on each itinerary, but generally is a ratio of one guide for every nine guests.

How many guides will there be on my trip?

This depends on the type of the type of Travel insurance that the passenger has. We recommend that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy for better care and hospital facilities.

What happens in the event of a medical emergency?

The tours are carried out by an expert team that has determined the optimal times of visits to make the most of our guests' time, without rushing. All our programs are customizable, so if at any time at the destination you want to adjust the pace of the trip, you can ask your guide to reach a consensus with the whole group in case you need to make adjustments to the pace of the trip.

What kind of pace can I expect on a tour?

How flexible is my itinerary already being at the destination?

Yes, you can safely store any luggage at your hotel.

Can I leave my main luggage somewhere safe during my excursions?

For city tours, there are public bathrooms available, in remote destinations bathroom facilities are more sparse.

Are there bathroom /toilet facilities during the tour?

In the mountains and remote places there is no Internet connection. Hotels and public places usually have WIFI available.

What is the internet /WIFI availability during the tour?

In cities and tourist centers you will have good telephone reception. In remote areas, there may be no cell phone reception.

Will there be cell phone reception during the tour?

It depends on each itinerary, we suggest you ask your travel advisor for the specific information of your program.

What is the highest altitude we will reach during the tour?

We decided to stop including single use plastic bottles in our transfers and excursions. We are now suggesting our clients to bring their own bottle of water, or we can include a bottle of water with a filter since it is not always possible to drink water from the tap in Colombia. When passengers arrive we share a list with the places they can refill the bottle according to the itinerary they have.

What hydration options do I have on tours at the destination?

Thank you very much for your interest! You can follow us on our networks:
&nbsp;
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vaexpeditions/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vaexpeditions/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/vaexpeditions
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vaexpeditions
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vaexpeditions/

How can I keep up to date of your news and information?

The Colombian Massif Experience

Immerse yourself in a 4-day cultural journey to Colombia's Guajira Peninsula with Va Expeditions. Meet the Wayúu people, explore Riohacha, Macuira, and Punta Gallinas. Promote sustainable tourism and social enterprise in remote communities.

Indigenous Colombian Cultural Adventure

Savor Colombia's finest coffee on an 8-day luxury tour with Va Expeditions. Journey from Bogota to Cartagena, exploring the Coffee Triangle and experiencing Colombian history and culture. Includes 4-star hotels, guided tours, and gourmet meals.

Coffee Triangle of Colombia

El Cocuy National Park Trekking Expedition

Colombian Nature- Multi-Destination

Colombia is literally the best kept secret of South America. This untouched jewel has everything you need for a classic vacation from relaxing Caribbean beaches, lush, vibrant rainforests teaming with wildlife, coffee growing valleys with colonial haciendas and a unique cultural history. The perfect way to experience Colombia at a relaxed pace.

Classic Colombia

Embark on a 4-day adventure to Colombia's Chiribiquete National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the Amazon's biodiversity, ancient pictograms, and limited human intervention. Includes flights, 3-star accommodation, and guided tours.

Chiribiquete National Park - Remote Nature

The Lost City Adventure

Bogotá  to Cartagena - A Historical Adventure

4 Day Caño Cristales Add-On

Hato La Aurora Extension

Cultural Immersion Colombia

Multi-Destination Cultural Immersion Experience

Colombian Coastlines

Multi-Destination  Coastlines

8 Day Colonial Colombia

Naturally Colombia

Luxury Colombia

Luxury Cartagena and Its Islands

14 Day Colonial Colombia

Cities of Colombia

Classic Colombia- Multi-Destination

Corocora Camp Extension

Luxury Colombian Highlights

Iconic Colombia

Cartagena

Book holiday packages to Colombia at VA Expeditions. Our Colombia vacation packages offer to explore the sightseeing and popular places in Colombia.

Colombia

Colombia Vacation, Tours, Travel Packages | VA Expeditions

Colombia has two different oceans, the Pacific and the Caribbean, so why not make the most of the coastline? The <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/multi-destination-coastlines">Caribbean coastline</a> has picturesque beaches with blue turquoise waters that are perfect for diving and snorkelling and the Pacific coast has seclusion, long deserted beaches and great surf. There are remote beaches (Capurgan&aacute;) There are white sandy beaches <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-cartagena-and-its-islands">(Isla de Bar&uacute;</a>), beached for diving and snorkelling (Playa de Provincia). There is a different beach for all occasions in Colombia! &nbsp;

The sea activities and array of sea life are mind-blowing in Colombia. The coral reefs and ancient shipwrecks are incredible, the schools of fish and subaquatic terrains are stunning and the water is clear and crystalline, to have the perfect views of what mother nature has to offer. The <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/multi-destination-coastlines">Rosario Islands</a> are a national park and are excellent for diving, snorkelling and simply relaxing!

Snorkelling and diving

This beach is found on the island of <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-cartagena-and-its-islands">Bar&uacute;</a>. This is the perfect chill out and a must-do for beach bums visiting Colombia. The beach is quite popular in high season and it is for a very good reason! By day, the sea is incredible and blue and the by night the serene waters turn into a favourite hotspot for many, to dance the night away. This beach is the perfect escape from Cartagena should you need it, being only 1 hour away.&nbsp;

Playa Blanca

These days, you&rsquo;d be hard-pressed to find a Caribbean island that's not overrun by tourists. Many have lost their charm and authenticity with the development of large hotel chains and overcrowded beaches, but there is one island in the Caribbean that remains unspoiled and unquestionably authentic, just off the country's northern coast and forms part of Colombian territory. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/colombian-coastlines">Providencia</a> has everything you miss about the authentic Caribbean that you never knew.

Providencia Island

Colombia is blessed with 2 coastlines on different oceans, the pacific and The Caribbean -paradise in a nutshell!

The Beaches

The cities of Colombia are an eclectic mixture. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-colombian-highlights">Cartagena</a> on the Caribbean coast is a gem. This walled city will take you back in time and the brightly coloured houses and murals add to the bohemian feel. Medellin, which was the most dangerous city in the world just 30 years ago due to the drugs cartels, is now a city of innovation. Its parks, transport system and cable cars, set amid two Andean mountain ranges, is complete with lush valleys and coffee growing regions. This home of salsa will keep you occupied for days! The capital of Bogota also has its charms. This huge city with traffic jams and dreary weather, as some may say, is culturally unique. La Candelaria and its colourful streets have a bohemian vibe in the city. This is after all the historical centre and a trip to the gold museum amid the mix of great bars and restaurants will keep most travellers happy.&nbsp;

The capital of Salsa, is a must for those night-owls visiting Colombia. The home of Salsa is a vibrant, sometimes chaotic city, with music in its essence. The small bars and even record shops in <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/classic-colombia">Cali, </a>are the best way to learn the moves and dance the night away. By day, check out the neo-gothic Capilla de Ermita church or the narrow streets of the barrio San Antonio in the historical centre. The Cali zoo is a great escape and the museums are also worth a visit in between the dancing, that is!&nbsp;

Cali

The second city of Colombia, <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-colombian-highlights">Medell&iacute;n</a> has transformed itself perhaps more than any other city in the world. Though its violent, tumultuous past is well-known, today the city is modern, innovative, and just generally lovely. Nicknamed the &ldquo;City of Eternal Spring&rdquo; for its nearly perfect weather, you&rsquo;ll find plenty of parks and plazas where you can enjoy the sunshine with a fresh juice from a street food vendor and a couple of empanadas. Make sure you learn all about the city&rsquo;s past in order to appreciate how far it&rsquo;s come!

Medellin

Bogot&aacute;, Colombia&rsquo;s capital, is slowly becoming one of Latin America&rsquo;s most lively and popular cities. Full of art, fashion, culture, history, opportunities, and unique experiences, <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/14-day-colonial-colombia">Bogot&aacute; </a>is a great city to visit and live. The whole of Colombia is rapidly becoming a must-see tourist destination, steeped in history and culture and with a large increase in visitors from all around the world. The vibrant capital will usually be your first stop!&nbsp;

Bogotá

Cartagena. Is an incredible colonial town on the Caribbean coast, characterized with brightly coloured buildings. This is a fantastic place to chill out and eat well and explore the old town, which is a historical museum of times gone by. This walled city is stunning! The street art in Getsemani is incredible and originally dates back to much more politically and economically difficult times in the city.&nbsp; The cuisine of<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/14-day-colonial-colombia"> Cartagena</a> is also exquisite. It is easy to understand why it is top of the list for many travellers.

Colombia is famous or infamous for its cities. Long gone are the days of Pablo Escobar, leaving unique culture and energy in his place.

The Colombian Cities

This incredible part of the Andean Mountain range is where the Andes splits into two. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/el-cocuy-national-park-trekking-expedition">The Colombian Andes</a> are home to every possible climatic condition possible and geographical region such as jungle, deserts and snow-capped volcanoes! The flora and fauna and fertile valleys are abundant, as is the coffee throughout this magnificent region.&nbsp;

Ca&ntilde;o Cristales is found in the Serrania of the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/4-day-cano-cristales-add-on">Macarena national park. </a>This naturalistic, 100 km river system, with natural lagoons and incredibly colourful vegetation, is best visited in the wet season due to water levels of course and a great option if you happen to be in Colombia during this season. This rainbow river is pretty challenging to get to, but worth the effort and the red aquatic plants, corals and water vegetation cause this incredible rainbow effect just below the water level. There is a reason behind why it is considered the most beautiful river in the world and a main reason why travellers visit the area.

Caños Cristales

The Colombian Massif contains 362 high mountain lagoons,13 alpine tundra ecosystems and a number of other ecosystems rich in flora and fauna.<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/the-colombian-massif-experience">The massif </a>is considered the cradle where ancient Andean traditions and wisdom were born and still thrive today. Here you can find archeological sites like San Agust&iacute;n and Tierradentro, where you will travel back in time.. This region is home to people that hold ancestral indigenous wisdom close to their heart and that will share with all visitors the traditions and culture that are bound to open up their minds.

The Colombian Massif

Where there are mountains, there are valleys and these valleys happen to produce some of the most exquisite types of coffee in the world. In <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/coffee-triangle-of-colombia">northeastern Andes,</a> coffee is grown at the considerably lower altitudes of 1,000&ndash;1,600 metres elevation, producing medium-bodied coffees with balanced acidity that have flavour notes of chocolate and softness and sweetness in the aroma.You can spot Colombian coffee on the basis of its characteristic flavours and acidity. In the south the flavours are citrusy, in the central region fruity and herbal and in the north there are traces of nuts and chocolate. Make the most of this national product during your stay!

Coffee Triangle

The Llanos region of Colombia can be found to the East of The Andes and is an ecoregion of&nbsp; tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands at the perfect elevation, midway between the Andes and the Amazon. The sprawling expanse of prairies and wetlands even extend across the border into Venezuela and drain into the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/corocora-camp-extension">Orinoco basin</a>. This is truly "deepest darkest,Colombia" , sparsely populated and strikingly traditional, so off the beaten track that the only places for visitors to stay are modest farmsteads and basic&nbsp; accomodations, set within the many cattle farms, <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/hato-la-aurora-extension">(hatos)</a>, where the cowboy lifestyle still reigns the roost. The area is blessed with a breath-taking amount of wildlife, feeding and breeding in the plethora of waterways, clinging to the branches of the trees,&nbsp; with an abundance of exotic birds. monkeys, alligators,&nbsp; capybaras, anacondas and giant storks. A paradise for wild life fanatics!

The Llanos

Colombian mountain regions are all about the coffee! Dont forget to sample the magnificent brew while you are here!

The Colombian Mountains

The Colombian rainforest has been off-limits for many years due to the illegal drug production in the area, but now the jungle is a safe place to go when you visit Colombia. In one way the FARC drugs guerrillas have preserved the jungle area by allowing literally NOONE to enter. Because the jungle is relatively recently accessible, the jungle lodges are not of the same standard as other South American countries, but the actual <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/chiribiquete-national-park-remote-nature">rainforest</a> is second to none for diversity and preservation.&nbsp;

Hidden in the jungle and just a couple of hours from Santa Martha you can see the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/the-lost-city-adventure">Lost City.</a> It was built approximately around 800 AD by the native Tyrona people of Colombia. This incredible lost city is a tricky trek and you have to enter with a guide and also apply for a permit, as you will be walking through ancient indigenous lands and what is now a national park. The hike is 4 days and will take you through 44 km of rainforest and through the Sierra Nevada mountains. It is thought to be one of the most significant pre-columbine findings in the Americas. Get your Indiana Jones hat on and start trekking!

The Lost City

Leticia on the Amazon river is perfect if you are looking for a rainforest adventure. Leticia is found on the border and its not far to enter <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/destination/peru">Peru</a> or Brazil from here. This bustling border town is always busy, but just head off into the rainforest and you will be away from it all before you know it. The "Mundo Amazonico" is a great national park to visit with over 700 species of plant life.&nbsp; If the Pink River dolphins are on your bucket list, head to Tarapoto lake, the best place for some peace and tranquillity. Do the "3 countries and 3 meals" trip as you briefly visit all three Amazonic countries and sample their dishes&hellip; touristy, but pretty cool!&nbsp;

Leticia

The <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/hato-la-aurora-extension">La Aurora </a>ranch in the eastern plains of Colombia and llanos country, is very reminiscent of the wild west. It is a must for nature lovers and the ranch has seen zero hunting for almost 50 years and protects large populations of capybara (around 50,000 of them!), deer, caimans and birds (including the tiny little burrowing owl), as well as jaguars, anacondas and giant anteaters. Visitors can head out on open-top jeeps or horses on a &lsquo;Colombian safari&rsquo; to get remarkably close to the amazing wildlife, get your cowboy hat on and have an amazing adventure in the second most bio-diverse part of the world!

Hato La Aurora

The Colombian Amazon covers a third of the whole country and is the second most biodiverse place on earth.

The Amazon Jungle

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