20 Best Places to Visit in Colombia, According to Locals and Experts
Colombia, a country that sits at the northern tip of South America, is endowed with a tapestry of vibrant cities, serene beaches, and some of the most biodiverse landscapes in the world. According to locals and travel experts, these are the 20 best places to visit in Colombia:
1.Cartagena: Known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively squares, Cartagena is a living museum by the Caribbean Sea.
2.Medellín: Once infamous, now famous for its innovative culture and the paisa hospitality, Medellín is a city transformed.
3.Bogotá: The high-altitude capital blends the old with the new—a city where you can explore historic neighborhoods and modern dining scenes.
4.Cali: As the salsa capital of Colombia, Cali offers vibrant nightlife and an energetic cultural scene.
5.The Coffee Triangle (Pereira, Manizales, and Armenia): This region leads visitors through lush coffee plantations and offers insights into coffee production.
6.Santa Marta: Gateway to the beaches of Tayrona National Park and the Lost City trek.
7.San Andres & Providencia Islands: These Caribbean islands boast exquisite beaches and offer world-class snorkeling and diving.
8.Villa de Leyva: A beautifully preserved colonial town with a stunning plaza that seems frozen in time.
9.Guatapé: Home to the famous El Peñón de Guatapé rock formation and colorful streets with intricate wall murals.
10.Popayán: Often referred to as ‘La Ciudad Blanca’ (The White City), this historic city is known for its charming white-washed buildings.
11.Salento: A small town in the Andean hills where travelers can hike through the Cocora Valley among towering wax palm trees.
12.Mompox: This unspoiled colonial river town feels like a place where time stands still, boasting architecture that has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage status.
13.Leticia: The entry point for many into the Amazon rainforest; it’s rich in indigenous culture and exotic wildlife.
14.Minca: Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Minca is perfect for eco-tourists looking for bird watching and natural waterfalls.
15.Pasto: Known for its Black and White Carnival, Pasto also serves as a base for exploring stunning nearby landscapes like Las Lajas Sanctuary.
16.Tatacoa Desert: Characterized by its otherworldly terrain reminiscent of Mars with cacti-scattered red soil formations.
17.Ipiales: Border town known primarily for its proximity to Las Lajas Sanctuary—one of Colombia’s architectural marvels tucked between mountains.
18.Barichara: Often nominated as the prettiest village in Colombia with cobblestone streets leading to panoramic vistas of surrounding valleys.
19.Palomino: A chilled-out beach town where the jungle meets the sea; ideal for tubing down Palomino River meeting Caribbean waves moments later
20.San Gil: Known as Colombia’s adventure capital—rafting, kayaking, paragliding are just some of the thrilling activities available here.
These destinations showcase Colombia’s incredible variety—there truly is something for every type of traveler visiting this captivating country.