With a one-way ticket, we went all over the world and that’s how our Colombia vacation began. A plane flew off on the way and we ended up in Chile, but after about 50 hours of travel, we hit there after all. We spent 5 weeks of God here and criss-crossed a large part of Colombia. Colombia and the whole of South America is a bit of a mysterious place where not everyone goes. Here you will find colonial cities, a rainforest and a clear Caribbean. In this article, we will advise you on the most beautiful places to see in Colombia.
Why visit Colombia and what it has to offer
Colombia is one of the most diverse countries in the world, as we already mentioned in the introduction. It has beautiful colonial cities, a rainforest, a desert, an ocean, the Caribbean Sea, high mountains and, above all, probably the nicest and most smiling people in the world. It’s cheap here and everyone will find something for themselves here.
What was our trip to Colombia and how much did it cost
Our holiday in Colombia was somewhat unconventional. We went here with a one-way ticket (we accidentally found out that the return flight was cancelled) to visit friends and have an adventure. We spent about 5 weeks in Colombia, which cost us about 30 thousand per person with everything. CZK, Which, as poor students, we really appreciated. It was absolutely divine and we think it’s a shame that so few people go there. That’s why we want to entice you with our article so that you too can get to know such amazing places on Earth.
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What is the climate and weather like in Colombia
Since Colombia stretches from the beaches of the Caribbean and Pacific to the rainforests to the alpine regions of the Andes, the weather here is really different. Coastal areas maintain a warm climate throughout the year, While the higher altitude in the Andes brings pleasant, cooler weather. The Amazon region then offers a typical tropical climate, with high humidity and lush vegetation. So pack a jacket, mountain shoes, swimsuits and lots of sunscreen and repellants with you.
Colombia – Vacation and when to go
Colombia is a destination that can be visited all year round thanks to its tropical climate. The best time to visit seaside areas is the period between December and March, when there is warmth and less rainfall. Most of the year is suitable for lovers of mountains and treks, but it is necessary to avoid the rainy season (April-May, October-November), when it is not only raining a lot, but some rivers cannot be forded, for example (for example, the popular lost city – La Ciudad Perdida).
Tip:What is the weather like in Sri Lanka and when to go?
Colombia – Holiday A15 of the most beautiful places to see in Colombia
Although we spent about 5 weeks in Colombia, it was definitely not enough to drive through the whole country. We are traveling slowly and we really want to explore the places And get to know them (not just come and take a picture of them). We have selected a little of each for you (cities, nature and the sea). So what to see in Colombia?
1. Cartagena de Indias – Treasure of the Caribbean
The city of Cartagena de Indias is the jewel of the Caribbean and One of the most beautiful colonial cities in South America. It is located on the coast of the Caribbean Sea and its walled old city is a UNESCO World Heritage List, while the modern part looks a bit like Miami. Colorful houses with balconies full of flowers surround you at every step. In addition, it is a great place to go to the surrounding islands and remote beaches that you see in magazines.
When to visit Cartagena
The best period is from December to April, when the temperatures are pleasant and the rains are minimal. Even in other months. Temperatures range from 29 to 31 °C throughout the year. It rains here from August to November, but it’s a short intense shower and you’re definitely not going to rain for a few days straight.
What to see around Cartagena
Because the city of Cartagena de Indias lies on the Caribbean coast, You can take a lot of boat trips to the smaller islands or explore the surroundings, where you can find them, for example, mud volcanoes or beautiful sandy beaches, where parrots (really) will fly over your heads.
- Islas del Rosario – Coral Islands of the Caribbean: About 100 kilometers southwest of Cartagena is the Islas del Rosario archipelago with coral reefs and the azure sea.
- Volcán del Totumo – mud volcano: 50 km from Cartagena is located Totumo mud volcano to take a mud bath in. The mud has healing effects and you can then bathe in the next lake.
- Playa Blanca: Only 45 minutes from Cartagena lies Playa Blanca on the island barú, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
- Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Park: This national park It protects one of the largest coral areas in Colombia and is an ideal place for lovers of nature and marine life.
- The town of San Basilio de Palenque: San Basilio de Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important historical sites in Colombia. Located about 50 kilometers southeast of Cartagena, it was one of the first free cities for the fugitive African slaves in America.
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2. Tayrona National Park
In the north of Colombia, under the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, it lies Tayrona National Park, which offers a stunning combination of Caribbean beaches and rainforests. You can stay directly in the national park and explore the forest. Tayrona NP is one of the places we liked the most in Colombia. You can visit popular beaches such as Playa Cristal or Cabo San Juan.
How to get to Tayron NP
From the city of Santa Marta, Tayrona is about an hour away by bus Or by taxi. The bus stops a short distance from the entrance gate to Tayron NP, where you pay the entrance fee, and if you want to spend a few days there, you must show the accommodation reservation at the gate. There are also jeeps across the park that will take you to more distant places.
TIP: Because Tayron National Park was one of the places we liked the most, we wrotea complete guide to this national park.
3. The tallest palm trees in the world in Valle de Cocora
The Valle de Cocora, located in the Quindío region, is known as the Home of Wax Palms, the national tree of Colombia and the highest palm trees in the world. Some of these palms reach up to 60 meters, and while walking through the valley you feel like you’ve entered a fairytale landscape. You can take various mountain treks and hiking trails here. Here you will see hummingbirds, ford the rivers and wander through the rainforest.
How to get to Valle de Cocora
The best starting point is the small town of Salento, which is easy to reach from larger nearby towns such as Pereira or Armenia (where our plane also flew). In addition, Salento is a beautiful colorful town where you can find local cuisine, coffee plantations in the vicinity and a great viewpoint.
Tip: Did you know that Colombia also has the tallest palm trees in the world, the best coffee and also a lot of hummingbirds? You can see everything in the mountain the village of Salento, which is full of colors and an incredibly amazing atmosphere.
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4. Visiting coffee plantations
If you drink coffee, you probably know very well that it grows a lot of it in Colombia and is one of the best. Among the cities where coffee is grown are Manizales, Pereira and Armenia and offers visitors the opportunity to view coffee plantations, taste fresh coffee directly from the farmers and learn about the process of its production. In addition to coffee tourism, you will find beautiful mountain landscapes, waterfalls and picturesque villages, such as the aforementioned Salento.
5. Medellin – former most dangerous city of Colombia
Medellín, the second largest city in Colombia, became famous for his crime and drug cartels Pablo Escobar. Fortunately, it’s safe here today and it’s definitely worth a visit here. Who cares about the drug industry in Colombia has a unique opportunity to visit Pablo Escobar’s homes and walk through a part of the city called Comuna 13, Where a few decades ago all the horrors happened.
COMUNA 13
COMUNA 13 is a fascinating neighborhood in Medellín that has undergone a remarkable transformation from one of the most dangerous places in Colombia to a symbol of hope, art and community. Today, this part of the city is one of the most visited tourist spots thanks to its street art, culture and positive changes that have taken place here over the past two decades. And because it’s located on a hill, you can go up and down the escalators.
6. La Guajira – Desert and Sea
On the northeastern tip of Colombia lies the La Guajira peninsula. A place where the AA Caribbean Desert meets. This wild landscape is home to the indigenous Wayuu tribe, which retains its traditional ways of life here. The biggest attraction of the area is Cabo de la Vela, an ideal place for windsurfing and watching the sunsets, illuminated by the golden sands of the desert.
How to get to La Guajira
La Guajira is a remote area, but the best way to get here is from the city of Riohacha, from where trips are organized. You can also rent a car and go here yourself too, but It is recommended to always travel with a guide Because the area is isolated and the infrastructure is not fully developed, it is also quite close to Venezuela.
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7. Bogotá – Capital of Colombia
Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is located at an altitude of 2,640 meters on the Andean Plateau. Besides historical monuments, such as Primada Cathedral and Plaza de Bolívar, is here Lots of important museums Like the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) or the Botero Museum, it is dedicated to the works of the famous Colombian painter and sculptor Fernando Boter (you have certainly never seen anything like this anywhere)
When to visit Bogotá
Bogotá has a mild climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is in the dry season from December to March. The average temperature in Bogotá is around 20 °C throughout the year. It rains the least here during our summer (June to August), on the contrary, the most precipitation here is February, March and November).
What to see around Bogotá
You can walk through Bogota itself in 2 days, but there are many interesting places around it, which you should definitely visit.
- Monserrate Mountain: Right in the heart of Bogotá rises the Monserrate mountain, which, with its height of 3,152 meters above sea level, offers a breathtaking view of the entire city. You can reach the top either on foot along the trail or by cable car. At the top is the famous pilgrimage church of Santuario del Señor Caído and many hummingbirds.
- Zipaquirá – Salt Cathedral: About 50 kilometers north of Bogotá are salt mines with a unique salt cathedral. This fascinating underground temple is carved right into the salt mine and offers an incredible atmosphere, a combination of religious symbolism and engineering.
- Laguna de Guatavita – Legend of El Dorad: About 75 kilometers northeast of Bogota is the Laguna de Guatavita, a picturesque lake associated with the legend of the golden city of El Dorado. This lagoon is surrounded by beautiful nature, where you can enjoy a hike and tour.
- Villa de Leyva – Colonial Pearl: About 3 hours drive from Bogota is the historic colonial city of Villa de Leyva. It has beautiful cobbled streets and the breathtaking Plaza Mayor.
Tip: You will most likely visit Bogota either way. If you have a few days to spare, we have 13 tips for great places,What to see in and around Bogotá.
8. Los Nevados National Park
For mountain hikers, the treks in Los Nevados National Park, located in the central part of Colombia, are great. JE lots of volcanoes here, including the famous Nevado del Ruiz. With altitudes over 5,000 meters above sea level, you will find glaciers, lagoons and exceptional fauna here. In addition to hiking and climbing volcanoes, you can also visit the thermal springs, which will definitely come in handy.
When to visit Los Nevados NP
If you want to include a visit to the Los Nevados National Park in the Itinerary of Colombia – vacation – come During the dry months from December to February, When the conditions for hikes are most favorable. Among the main starting points for mountain hikes are the cities of Manizales and Pereira. Don’t forget to bring your guide, equipment and acclimatize.
9. City of Cali
Cali, officially Santiago de Cali, is the third largest city in Colombia and known as the ‘Capital of Salsa’. The city is located in the Cauca Valley, surrounded by picturesque mountains, and is fromOur live atmosphere full of music and dance. Cali boasts a number of dance schools and annual festivals that celebrate salsa and other Latin American rhythms. The historic center of the city offers colonial architecture, squares and churches, while modern parts attract live bars and clubs.
10. San Andrés – Caribbean Paradise
The island of San Andrés, located in the Caribbean, is a true paradise on earth. Around are crystal clear water, sandy beaches and coral reefs. In addition to the beautiful sea, San Andrés also offers a colorful Caribbean culture, where Spanish, British and African influences are mixed. A lot of Colombians come here to relax and have fun, which will definitely be taken care of here.
How to get to San Andrés
From mainland Colombia you can go to San Andrés Arrive by flight from Bogotá or Cartagena. The best time to visit is December to April, when the weather is dry and ideal for beaching.
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11. La Ciudad Perdida – Mysterious Lost City
Do you like adventure, nature and mystery? pIf you go on a several-day trek to La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City). This Hidden deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains, the archaeological site is considered one of the most important Native American cities pre-Columbian era. The journey through the jungle takes several days, but the reward is the breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore a place that has been forgotten for centuries.
How to get to La Ciudad Perdida
The trek to the lost city begins in the village of El Mamey, Where you can get from the city of Santa Marta. The journey takes approximately 4-6 days and requires a guide. You will enjoy an unforgettable adventure across the forest.
when to go
The best time to trek to the lost city is from December to March and from July to August, when the precipitation is minimal. Trails also walk better in these periods. Avoid the rainy season, which usually lasts from April to June and from September to November. In these months, the trails may be impassable.
12. Leticia – Gateway to the Amazon Forest
The city of Leticia is located on the border between Colombia, Brazil and Peru and is the gateway to the Colombian part of Amazonia. This area is one of the most biologically rich places in the world, full of all kinds of animals and plants. you can undertake here Trips to the Amazon Forest, Cruises on the Amazon River and to observe rare animals Like pink river dolphins or parrots.
how to get to amazonia in colombia
Leticia is only available by air, most often by direct flight from Bogotá. The best time to visit is During the dry season from July to November, When trips to the jungle are the most pleasant. Leave enough time to visit Amacayacu National Park, where you can get to know the indigenous communities and experience an authentic life in the Amazon.
13. Guatapé – Colorful Village and El Peñol
Guatapé is a beautiful colorful town about 80 km from Medellín. The main spectacle is 200 m high rock formation El Peñol. It was created millions of years ago as a granite pluton, When the magma penetrated the earth’s crust and gradually solidified deep below the surface. Over the millions of years, the surrounding rock has been eroded, revealing this massive monolith that offers an unforgettable view of the vast lake and the surrounding landscape. It looks like a big egg that a giant dragon has laid.
Climbing to the top includes 740 steps, But the reward is the panoramic view, which is one of the most beautiful in Colombia.
14. Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Las Lajas
Santuario de Las Lajas, or the sanctuary of Our Lady of Lajas, is located in a picturesque valley near Ipiales, about 10 kilometers from the Colombian border with Ecuador. this imposing A church, built on a bridge Above the deep canyon of the Guáitara River, it is characterized by a Gothic style and its architecture is a real technical miracle. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is an important place of pilgrimage. In addition, it is surrounded by beautiful nature.
15. Barichara – Colonial jewel
The city of Barichara is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Colombia. Located in the Santander area, not far from San Gil, and is known for its white painted houses, red roofs and cobbled streets. You may think that time has stopped here. Here you will enjoy the peace and the local atmosphere connected with the local culture. Favorite is a hiking trip to Camino Real, An ancient path leading from Barichara to the nearby village of Guane.
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The most frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Kdy je nejlepší jet do Kolumbie?
Pokud váháte, kdy jet do Kolumbie, doporučujeme zimní měsíce (prosinec až únor), které patří k turistické sezóně, protože je suché počasí. Protože má Kolumbie různou nadmořskou výšku a odlišné počasí v různých lokalitách, můžete přijet kdykoliv a vyrazit tam, kde bývá téměř pořád hezky.
Čím je známá Kolumbie?
Kolumbie okouzluje svou ohromnou rozmanitostí. Od amazonských pralesů, přes vysoké pohoří And, bahenní sopky, Karibik až po kávové plantáže a vysoké horské vrcholy. Je tady spousta historických a koloniálních měst, kulturní dědictví v podobě hudby a tance, vynikající kávy a hlavně milých lidí.
Kam cestovat v Kolumbii?
Kolumbie toho nabízí opravdu mnoho a vybere si tady každý. Od přírody, hor, moře až přes krásná historická města a kultuur. Mezi oblíbená místa v Kolumbii patří:
Bogotá – Město, kde ráno nasáváš mlhu z hor a večer nejjemnější kávu.
Medellín – Bývalé nejnebezpečnější město světa, nyní plné barev, kultury i turistů.
Cartagena – Napůl historické koloniální město, napůl novodobé moderní druhé Miami.
Valle de Cocora – Pohádkové údolí zahalené mlhou a nejstaršími palmami na světě.
NP Tayrona – Tropický ráj, kde vrcholky hor a džungle potkává pláž.
NP Los Nevados – Hory, sopky, ledovce a zase hory.
Guatapé – Nejbarevnější vesnice Kolumbie spolu s obří skálou jako z vesmíru.
Barichara – Místo, kde se čas zastavil.
Leticia – Amonský prales plný dobrodružství.
San Andrés – Ostrov s nejprůzračnější azurovou vodou.
Cali – Město tance a hudby.
La Ciudad Perdida – Ztracené město uprostřed džungle.
La Guajira – Místo, kde se písek potkává s mořem.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Las Lajas – Gotická katedrála zavěšená mezi útesy.
Čím se platí v Kolumbii?
V Kolumbii je měna kolumbijské pesos. Peníze můžete snadno směnit na letišti nebo ve městech, přičemž americké dolary i eura jsou běžně přijímány. 1 Kč je přibližně 180 pesos.
Jak se mluví v Kolumbii?
V Kolumbii se mluví španělsky, přestože se od evropské španělštiny dost liší. Každá oblast Kolumbie má své nářečí a své typické výrazy.
Resources
OJEDA, D., 2011, April. Whose Paradise? Conservation, Tourism and Land Grabbing in Tayrona Natural Park, Colombia. In International Conference on Global Land Grabbing (pp. 6-8).
Eggerton, A., Rueda, M., Sainsbury, B. and Blake, L.W., 2023. Travel Guide Colombia. Lonely Planet.
García Londoño, M.L., Montoya Morales, A.J. and González Fresneda, S.L., 2024. Sustainable Tourism: An Approach from Sustainable Practices in Valle del Cocora. Tendencias, 25(1), pp.191-219.
Dávila, J.D., 2004. La Transformación de Bogotá. Fortalezas de Colombia, pp.417-439.