Colombia is one of those countries that grabs your attention as soon as you start learning about it. The country has a vibrant mix of culture, history, friendliness, and nature like you’ve never seen before. From the Amazon rainforest to Caribbean coastlines and the Andes mountains, Colombia has something for every traveler.
It’s also a place that, once considered off-limits for travelers because of conflict, has now become one of the top spots for adventurous tourists. And while tourism has been growing rapidly, you’ll still find plenty of untouched and underrated places to visit here.
Colombia: Quick Facts
Before diving deeper, it’s good to know some basic things about Colombia:
- The capital city is Bogotá.
- The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP).
- Spanish is the official language.
- Colombia’s population is around 50 million people.
- The country’s size is roughly 1.14 million square kilometers (making it a bit over twice the size of Texas).
- Colombians love music, especially genres like Salsa, Vallenato, and Cumbia.
Major Cities in Colombia
Let’s talk about some cities you should know about:
Bogotá
As the capital city, Bogotá is where most international flights land. This massive metropolis sits high up in the Andes at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, so don’t be surprised if you feel the altitude when you first arrive.
Bogotá has a mix of colonial architecture and modern, cosmopolitan areas. Its main tourist hub is La Candelaria, the old town filled with colorful houses, churches, museums, and street art. You’ll want to visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) or check out Monserrate, the mountain that overlooks the city, offering amazing views of the entire valley.
Just be prepared for weather that can change quickly here. It’s typically cool, with temperatures averaging between 12 to 18°C (53 to 65°F).
Medellín
Medellín is often called the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its perfect weather. Temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F) almost all year, making it a comfortable place to visit.
This city used to have a bad reputation worldwide due to drug violence in the ’80s and ’90s. But today, Medellín is praised for its social transformation and innovation. The massive escalators running up the steep hillside neighborhoods and the modern metro system are just a couple of examples of how this city changed for the better.
The district of El Poblado is where tourists often stay, full of trendy bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. However, visiting Comuna 13 is a highlight for many, as this once-dangerous neighborhood is now a vibrant area known for its murals, street art, and cultural comeback.
Cali
Welcome to the world’s salsa capital. Cali is all about dancing. The city is famous for its Cali-style salsa (an energetic, quick-paced dance), and there are plenty of salsa schools if you’d like to take a lesson before hitting the clubs.
Aside from salsa, Cali has a growing street art scene, especially in the San Antonio neighborhood. You’ll also want to check out the impressive Cristo Rey monument, a large statue of Christ that offers excellent views of the city below.
Cartagena
Many travelers say that Cartagena is Colombia’s most beautiful city, and it’s easy to see why. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with cobblestone streets, ancient churches, vibrant plazas, and stunning colonial architecture. You can easily spend days wandering around, taking in the city’s mix of history and romance.
For a more relaxing experience, head to the nearby islands like the Islas del Rosario or Playa Blanca. Visitors come to Cartagena not only for its history but also for its beautiful Caribbean beaches.
The Culture and People of Colombia
Colombians are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Many visitors are surprised at how warm and helpful locals can be. Get ready for smiles, lively conversations, and, if you’re lucky, you’ll get invited to a family dinner.
Colombia is a diverse country made up of various regions, each with its own cultural identity. The Caribbean coast has a different vibe compared to the Andean regions, and the Amazon in the south feels like a world apart. With over 80 ethnic groups, Colombia is a cultural mix influenced by Indigenous peoples, Spanish colonizers, and African slaves brought over centuries ago.
Music is a huge part of daily life here. Even if you’re not a big fan of dancing, you’ll likely find yourself moving to the rhythms of salsa, Colombian cumbia, or vallenato at some point.
History of Colombia
Colombia’s history is complex. After being under Spanish rule for over 300 years, Colombia became independent in 1819. However, political struggles and internal conflicts followed.
In the 20th century, the country was heavily affected by guerrilla warfare and drug cartels. Names like Pablo Escobar became infamous worldwide, and Colombia had a period where violence was front and center.
Things started to change in the early 2000s. Several peace agreements and reforms led to a significant drop in violence and crime. Today, Colombia is much safer and open to tourism, and the government has invested heavily in attracting travelers back.
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. From the Andes mountains to the Amazon jungle, there’s no shortage of outdoor experiences.
Tayrona National Park
This area blends beautiful beaches with lush jungles. Located near the city of Santa Marta, Tayrona is perfect for hiking, spending time with nature, and enjoying Colombia’s stunning Caribbean coast. There’s wildlife to spot, like howler monkeys, and some indigenous villages you can visit if you’d like to learn more about the local cultures.
Cocora Valley
Famous for its towering wax palm trees (Colombia’s national tree), the Cocora Valley is a stunning spot in the Coffee Region. Hiking trails run through this area, giving you views of the tallest palm trees, sometimes reaching 60 meters (almost 200 feet) high.
Most travelers base themselves in the nearby town of Salento before heading into the valley. While here, you can also tour coffee farms to learn how Colombia produces some of the best coffee in the world.
The Amazon
If you want to get really off the beaten path, head into the Amazon. The town of Leticia is the entry point for most travelers. From here, you can take boat trips along the river, visit Indigenous communities, or go on jungle treks to see unique wildlife like pink river dolphins.
The Amazon is a place for true adventure; be prepared for the jungle’s intensity.
Colombian Food
Colombian food might not get international fame like Mexican or Peruvian cuisine, but it has its own style worth trying.
In Bogotá, you have to try the hearty soup known as Ajiaco. It’s made with chicken, potatoes, and corn, and it’s usually served with avocado and rice.
Bandeja Paisa, the national dish, is popular in Medellín and other parts of the Antioquia region. It’s a massive plate of food that includes beans, rice, beef, fried eggs, avocado, and plantains.
For a snack, try an arepa, a type of corn cake that comes with various fillings. Or, grab some freshly squeezed tropical fruit juice; Colombia’s climate allows for an endless variety of exotic fruits that you might not find elsewhere.
Safety Tips
Colombia is far safer than its past reputation would suggest, but it’s still wise to take precautions, like you would anywhere else:
- Stick to well-known, tourist-friendly areas.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- Always use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber.
Most visits are incident-free, and common sense goes a long way in staying safe.
Wrapping Up Your Colombia Adventure
Once you visit Colombia, you’ll likely leave with incredible memories and a deeper appreciation for the country’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and vibrant cities. It offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, history, and friendly locals that’s hard to beat.
Colombia’s reputation for welcoming travelers is growing fast, and now’s the time to go before it gets even more popular. So why not grab your backpack, brush up on a little Spanish, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to South America?
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