Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Colombia is a beautiful, large, and diverse country with many interesting places to visit. Tourism is growing rapidly in the country, and it is becoming one of the best up-and-coming places to visit.

Is Colombia Safe to Visit?

Colombia has seen significant improvements in security in recent years, however, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take the necessary precautions when traveling. Certain areas of the country, particularly along the border with Venezuela and in some rural areas, can be dangerous due to the presence of illegal armed groups. Urban areas such as Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena are generally considered safe for tourists. It’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advice from the government of your country before traveling.

It is also important to note that crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. It is advisable to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions such as not showing off expensive items, and keeping an eye on your personal belongings.

Overall, Colombia has come a long way in terms of security and is becoming a popular destination for tourists. As long as you take the necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Some of the Best places to visit in Colombia

Some popular places to visit in Colombia include:

• Cartagena: a colonial city on the Caribbean coast known for its well-preserved old town and colorful architecture. A popular cruise port and beach destination, this city has a good mix of touristy beach feel with Colombian history and food. Take a tour to see the famous Mud Volcano. A city walking tour is also a great option.

• Medellin: a bustling city in the Andean region known for its urban development and cultural scene. Visit the historic Comuna 13, parks, shopping malls, and ride the local cable cars to mountaintop nature preserve Parque Arvi. Medellin is the best jumping off point with a large airport to get to Guatape, Jardin, and Santa Elena. Food tours are also a great way to taste your way around this city.

• Guatape and Penol: A day or overnight trip here from Medellin is more than worthwhile. Besides endless mountain lakes and watersports, you can also visit the giant rock “El Penol” and climb the 700+ steps to the top for breathtaking views. This Guatape and Penol Tour is amazing and a great way to see these sights.

• San Andres and Providencia: Caribbean islands located off the coast of Nicaragua but part of Colombia known for their white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities here. Check out a marine tour while here.

• Bogota: the capital city and cultural center of Colombia, featuring museums, colonial architecture, and the Gold Museum. Take a city tour to take in some of the best sights here.

• Santa Marta and Tayrona National Park: The Touristic, Cultural and Historic District of Santa Marta is a city on the coast of the Caribbean Sea in northern Colombia. It is adjacent to world-famous Tayrona National Park, a protected area on the Caribbean coast known for its beaches, hiking trails, and indigenous communities. Take a 4 day hike to a lost city.

• The Coffee Triangle: an area in the Andean region known for its coffee production and beautiful landscapes. The towns of Salento, Pijao, and Filandia are adorable and scenic places to visit with plenty of surrounding parks and even some hot springs. In Salento, take a tour of the town or head out to see Howler Monkeys.

• Caño Cristales: a river in the Sierra de la Macarena known for its vibrant colors and biodiversity. This amazing place is remote, and you can get to Cano Cristales is to by flying directly to the Serrania de la Macarena on a small plane from Bogota. You can also join an organized tour from Bogota.

• Jardin: a picturesque Colonial town with mountains, waterfalls, shops, restaurants, and a charming town square. Named “most beautiful small town in Colombia” for its colorful buildings and stunning mountain backdrops. Take a coffee tour or explore the area on your own.

• Tatacoa Desert: The Tatacoa Desert is located in the central region of Colombia, in the departments of Huila and Caquetá. It is known for its unique landscapes, featuring reddish-brown canyons, deep valleys, and rocky formations. The desert is one of the best places in the world for stargazing, as it is one of the few places in the country with minimal light pollution. It is also home to a rich biodiversity, including cactus and succulent plants, and a variety of bird and mammal species.