Colombia, with its stunning coastlines along both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, boasts an enviable geographical location and a rich tapestry of culture and landscapes. Once marked by conflict due to its strategic position, the country has re-emerged as a vibrant and desirable tourist destination. Offering a mix of captivating highlights, from lush jungles and towering mountains to colonial towns and lively cities, Colombia’s newfound stability makes it a thrilling choice for travellers seeking adventure, history, and natural beauty.
Bogota: Colombia's capital city boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including incredible museums, graceful cathedrals, and architectural wonders. By day, immerse yourself in history and culture, and by night, experience the city's vibrant nightlife. Don't miss La Candelaria, a neighborhood filled with cafes, parks, and points of interest.
Cartagena: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled city on the Caribbean coast, often described as more Spanish than Spain itself. Learn about its pirate history, wander through enchanting narrow streets in the old town, and soak up the Afro-Caribbean flavor.
The Coffee Triangle: This beautiful region is renowned for producing the majority of Colombia's coffee, considered some of the best in the world. Visitors can sample local coffee while exploring mountain passes, coffee farms, and cloud forests.
Rosario Island: Located off the Caribbean coast, Rosario and San Andres Islands provide a perfect getaway. These islands are within a national park about an hour from Cartagena. Visitors can kayak through mangroves, relax on stunning beaches, and savor fresh seafood.
Tayrona National Park: Situated in northern Colombia, Tayrona National Park covers the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta before meeting the Caribbean. It is known for its stunning palm-shaded coves, coastal lagoons, lush rainforests, and rich biodiversity.
In Colombia, the best times to visit are generally during the dry seasons, which are:
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
Language: Spanish
What makes it special: Colombia is a country of rich biodiversity. It’s the only South American nation with coastlines on both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans, and encompasses everything from dense rainforests and snow-capped peaks to vibrant cities and metropolises. Home to ancient indigenous cultures like the Muisca, Quimbaya, and Tairona, and shaped by Spanish colonisation from the late 15th century, Colombia is steeped in both history and natural wonder. Whether you're sipping coffee in the Andes, dancing salsa in Cali, or wandering Cartagena's cobbled streets, Colombia captivates with its rhythm, colour, and authenticity.
Social customs: Colombian culture places great value on family and respect. It’s common for extended families to live together, and older generations are held in high regard. Personal privacy may be less emphasised than in some cultures, but warmth and generosity are abundant. Greetings are typically warm, expect a handshake or a cheek kiss, and it’s polite to address people by their titles and surnames.
