The Amazon jungle, two seas, a lost city, colonial towns, and buzzing cities make Colombia a unique tourist destination. Want to wander through magical landscapes? Want to have the party of a lifetime? Want to go back in time and enjoy the charm of colonial architecture? Want to dance in the salsa capital of the world? When you visit Colombia, you will be able to do all this and much more! Let us introduce you to the best places to visit in Colombia for your next trip.
The Caribbean Region
Colombia’s Caribbean coast is the best place to start exploring this fascinating and biodiverse country.
Cartagena
Founded more than five centuries ago, Cartagena stands proudly as one of the most beautiful, impressive, and preserved cities in the Caribbean. It was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
The first thing you should do is tour the Old City of Cartagena. Wander the history-filled streets; enjoy the squares and the impressive colonial buildings. Be dazzled by the city’s magnificent gastronomic scene and dive into the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat. While you get to know this side of the city, you can visit museums such as the Zenú Gold Museum or the Cartagena Museum of Modern Art.
A must-see destination in Cartagena is the Castillo de San Felipe, the icon of the Walled City. For centuries, this was the fortress that defended the city from various attacks, making it a military success at the time. Today, it is a favorite place for visitors to admire the labyrinthine construction and have an impressive view of the sea and the neighborhoods of Cartagena.
Baru and the Rosario Islands are must-visit destinations when in Cartagena. Crystal clear waters, palm trees, exotic fruits, and paradisiacal beaches are the perfect setting for a day of relaxation that will leave you ready to continue your trip through Colombia.
Tayrona Park
Under the shade of a snow-capped mountain, the ocean meets the jungle. Tayrona Park is a natural gem and the ideal destination for those with an adventurous spirit. It offers a range of activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, geological observation, diving, snorkeling, water rides, and camping. We recommend that you go between March and May, as it is the dry season and there are fewer tourists. Besides, the entrance fee is cheaper!
San Andres and Providencia
Make sure to visit the Archipelago of San Andres and Providencia before departing the Caribbean region. These idyllic islands are home to Colombia’s most beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets. What’s more, you’ll experience something entirely unique from the rest of Colombia due to its history and geographic location. You’ll notice that the locals speak Creole, a combination of English, Spanish, French, and African languages.
Your first stop in San Andres should be the sea, where you’ll discover why it’s called the Sea of Seven Colors. We recommend visiting the beaches of Johnny Cay and Cayo Bolivar. Then, take a stroll around the old city to admire colonial buildings such as the Baptist Church and the Island House Museum. And since the island is tax-free, take advantage of the opportunity to purchase gifts and souvenirs. End your day by enjoying the island’s nightlife, and dancing to the rhythm of Caribbean music.
In Providencia, we recommend going to Playa Manzanillo to enjoy the breathtaking views and the mouthwatering seafood. A hike to the island’s highest point is also a must for panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. And don’t forget to take a trip to the island of Santa Catalina by crossing the bridge for an unforgettable diving experience in the colorful coral reefs. With a blend of unique culture and unforgettable natural sights, these islands are one of the best places to visit in Colombia.
Medellín
After exploring the captivating Caribbean region, don’t miss the chance to visit one of the best cities in Colombia, Medellin. Although it is known for its lively nightlife, Medellin has plenty of other things to offer.
To truly get a feel for the city, your first destination should be Comuna 13. Once one of the most dangerous places in the world, Comuna 13 is now a shining example of the city’s transformation and the resilience and resourcefulness of its people. We suggest taking a graffiti tour to learn about the city’s inspiring past through art.
You will soon realize that Medellin is a city that celebrates art and nature, so we advise taking a tour of the main squares and parks, such as Botero Square and Pies Descalzos Park. Additionally, don’t miss visiting Pueblito Paisa, one of the most important tourist attractions in the city, known for its alluring traditional architecture and panoramic view of Medellin and the Aburrá Valley.
Another must-see tourist destination in Medellín is Arví Park. There you can walk along paths that date back to pre-Columbian times, observe the unique birds of Colombia, let yourself be wrapped by the magical forest, enjoy a picnic on the banks of the river, and even have a spa session.
No visit to Medellin is complete without sampling its culinary delights and experiencing its vibrant nightlife. El Poblado is the go-to neighborhood for both, with its numerous restaurants with diverse cuisine and its wide selection of nightclubs that cater to different musical tastes.
The Amazon Jungle
One of the best things to do in Colombia is visit the Amazon. This jungle represents more than 40% of the national territory, and the best way to get to know all its secrets is to travel to Leticia, the capital of the Amazon region in Colombia. This is the starting point for boat trips on the breathtaking Amazon River, where you can visit the Isla de los Micos (Monkey Island) and go on a trekking excursion through the jungle to admire the native wildlife.
A visit to the Amazon isn’t complete without immersing yourself in the local cuisine, which is unlike anything you’ve tasted before. Take advantage of the abundance of fish in the rivers by trying the pirarucu, a favorite among the locals. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste casabe, a pre-Columbian dish similar to pizza but made with yucca and your preferred toppings. For more culinary experiences, head over to Santa Rosa, Peru, and Tabatinga, Brazil for some of the region’s best ceviche and other delicacies.
Colombia is an incredibly diverse country and has become one of Latin America’s favorite tourist destinations. While a few decades ago it was considered a dangerous country, today you can travel safely through all regions thanks to the transformation the country has undergone.
When you visit the Antioquia region, do not hesitate to contact us for the most exciting and unique experiences. We offer tours both inside and outside Medellin for you to have a complete adventure.
