Colombia, often overlooked and misunderstood, is one of the world’s most captivating and diverse travel destinations. From the paradisiacal beaches of the Caribbean coast to the majestic mountains of the Andes, cosmopolitan cities, lush jungles and a rich culture, this country offers a unique experience for adventurous travellers.
Time and again, Colombia ranks among the world’s most popular travel destinations. The World Travel Awards voted it South America’s Best Destination in 2019. Forbes ranks it as the 3rd most beautiful country in the world in 2022.
Here’s why you should consider visiting Colombia.
Colombia is much safer than you think
Fans of the Netflix series Narcos will find that the Colombia it depicts is far from what you’ll experience today in most of the country. Colombia has made incredible progress over the past two decades, capped by the 2016 peace agreement between the government and the main guerrilla group. This means that with the same common sense you’d use in a major European or American city, or when traveling in another country, you won’t have any more problems on the streets of Colombia.
Colombia is (relatively) unknown… for now
It’s only in the last few years that people have started to talk about Colombia as a spectacular travel destination, which means you can still enjoy an experience largely devoid of the big crowds of some of Latin America’s hotspots. In restaurants, stores and museums, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of locals and will rarely have to queue… except to catch a soccer match or get into a trendy nightclub!
Colombians are extraordinary
Colombians are known for their warmth, hospitality and kindness. They often welcome foreigners with open arms, and are proud to share their culture, cuisine and history. Travelling in Colombia offers many opportunities to meet friendly Colombians and enjoy authentic experiences. Whether it’s chatting with locals in a market, taking part in a traditional festival or exploring the country’s rural areas, you’ll quickly discover just how extraordinary Colombians are (well, speaking Spanish will help a lot).
Biodiverse landscapes
Colombia is classified as a megadiverse country – a term that describes a country with a rich biodiversity. The Andes cross the country and comprise three interconnected mountain ranges, with Bogotá situated on a flat savannah within these ranges. The Amazon rainforest covers 35% of Colombia, and is home to numerous indigenous communities, endangered animals and endemic flora. The country also boasts two desert zones, La Guajira and La Tatacoa, and its coasts, one on the Caribbean and the other on the Pacific, are home to magnificent beaches backed by snow-capped mountains and lush forests. Colombia is also home to a vast páramo ecosystem, which contributes to the formation of rainfall.
Unique fauna
Colombia is a country of great biodiversity, home to over 10% of the world’s animal species and the largest number of endemic species. More than 1,900 species of birds inhabit the country, as well as over 490 species of mammals and a large number of insects, reptiles and marine creatures. Among the emblematic species you’ll encounter in Colombia are the jaguar, puma, tapir, howler monkey, anaconda, caiman, hummingbird, toucan, Andean condor and many others. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of birds present, including many endemic species, as Colombia is the country with the most bird species in the world.
The 17 heritage villages declared cultural heritage
Colombia is dotted with picturesque colonial villages that transport you back in time. 17 heritage villages are particularly interesting for their preserved style. From cobbled streets to colorful facades, these historic gems such as Villa de Leyva, Barichara and Mompox offer a journey back to the Spanish colonial era. You’ll discover centuries-old churches, preserved architecture and an authentic atmosphere. These villages are cultural treasures where history and beauty blend harmoniously. Full list: Santa Cruz de Mompox, Ciénaga, Guaduas, Guadalajara de Buga, Jericó, Barichara, Honda, Guadas, Jardín, Santa Cruz de Lorica, Playa de Belén, Monguí, Salamina, San Juan de Girón, Santa Fe de Antioquia, Socorro, Villa de Leyva.
Major festivals
Colombia’s festivals are vibrant and reflect the country’s diverse culture. The Carnaval de Barranquilla is one of the biggest carnivals in South America, with mesmerizing dances, costumes and music. The Cali Salsa Festival (Feria de Cali) is a celebration of dance that attracts dancers from all over the world. Cartagena ‘s Independence Festivities offer sumptuous parades and historic festivities. Finally, Medellín ‘s Feriade las Flores celebrates the beauty of flowers and the importance of the floral industry in the Antioquia region. In Colombia, festivities are an unforgettable experience.
Extreme sports & adventure
Colombia offers a multitude of opportunities for adventure sports enthusiasts. From the majestic Andes to the Amazon rainforests and the beaches of the Caribbean coast, you can enjoy hiking, rafting, mountain biking, paragliding, canyoning, climbing, caving, scuba diving, snorkeling and much more. Colombia’s varied landscape and geographical diversity make it an ideal destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Indigenous communities
There are many other indigenous groups in Colombia, each contributing to the country’s cultural and ethnic diversity. Each group has its own customs, language and way of life. Although they represent only 4% of the Colombian population, more than 115 indigenous groups are scattered throughout the country. Nevertheless, only some of them are willing to share their culture and traditions with tourists. Here are just a few of the indigenous communities active in Colombia: Wiwa (Sierra Nevada), Wayuu (La Guajira), Arhuaco (Sierra Nevada), Guambiano (Cauca), Paez (Tierradentro), Puinave (Guainia), Embera Chami (Caldas).
Colombia, land of a thousand rhythms
Colombia has a rich musical heritage. The diverse cultural and ancestral influences of each region have given rise to a blend of harmoniously delicious rhythms and unique musical styles, such as cumbia, vallenato, salsa caleña, joropo, bullerengue and champeta. Each of these styles is typically Colombian and perfectly illustrates its region of origin, and is often a blend of indigenous, African and European (Spanish) culture.
A cheap country for tourists
Apart from the cost of air travel to the country, Colombia is often considered a cheap country for tourists. The Colombian peso (COP) offers a favorable exchange rate for many foreign currencies. This means you’ll have more purchasing power in Colombia. Local costs are low, ideal for those on a budget: accommodation from 10€ (youth hostel), food from 3€ (daily menu), accessible transport (by bus for 5 to 20€), etc. Or you can treat yourself to top-of-the-range services that are far less expensive than in Western countries.
In brief
We could also mention a hundred other reasons, such as visiting the farms ofone of the world’s best coffees, exceptional sites like Caño Cristales or Isla Malpelo, the multitude of fruits (and fruit juices) you can sample, and so on.
Colombia is a destination that never ceases to surprise and delight those who visit it. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture or relaxation on heavenly beaches, this country has everything to offer. Pack your suitcase (or your bag) and let yourself be seduced by Colombia!
