A land of diverse landscapes, cultures and attractions, the South American nation of Colombia is every bit a tourist’s dream. The only country in the region with two ocean coasts, Colombia offers visitors the opportunity to explore Caribbean beaches, tropical jungles and snow-capped mountain peaks. In addition to its impressive terrains, the country is also home to age-old archaeological sites, historic towns, and vibrant cities where a diverse mix of Spanish, African, European and Middle-Eastern influences are reflected the food, architecture and fascinating ethnic traditions.
Located 2600m above sea level at the base of the Guadalupe and Monserrate mountains is Colombia’s capital and one of South America’s leading cultural destinations. Patrons of the arts are spoilt for choice with the city’s museums, art galleries, stage theatres, and national monuments. So impressive is Bogota’s collection of libraries and academic institutions that the city has earned itself the nickname 'The Athens of South America'. The historic district of La Candelaria boasts many of these offerings as well as some truly breathtaking historic architecture. Must-see attractions in Bogota include the weird and wonderful Museo Botero; famous Museo del Oro, filled with astonishing displays of gold items and pre-hispanic art; and the atmospheric, grandiose Church of San Francisco, with origins dating to around 1557.
Villa de Leyva is said to be one of the most charming villages in Colombia, with its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and mild climate. Located in the Boyacá department of Colombia, and a three-hour drive from the capital, Bogotá, this picturesque village was declared a national monument in 1954 and is a tourist haven. Its 400-year-old plaza, the largest open square in South America, hosts regular markets and festivals, making it a hub of activity on weekends. Don’t leave town without heading into the spectacular surrounding mountains – either on foot, bicycle or horseback – where waterfalls, lakes, caves and archaeological sites await.
Armenia, the capital of the Department of Quindío in the Andino region of Colombia, is a relatively small, slow-paced city with a certain quirky, ramshackle charm. The city makes an excellent base for exploring a territory that UNESCO declared a World Heritage Site in 2011: the Coffee Culture Landscape of Colombia. This region is famed for its coffee and banana plantations, its quaint terracotta-roofed farm houses, and its picturesque mountainous landscapes dotted with an impressive array of cultural attractions as well as an abundance of fascinating plant and animal life. The city itself is of course a coffee lover’s paradise with some lovely coffee shops and a number of theme parks and estates designed to educate visitors about coffee culture. Other popular tourist highlights include an excellent museum housing an impressive collection of artifacts from the pre-columbian Quimbaya civilization and some wonderful botanical gardens.
Once considered one of the world’s most dangerous cities, Medellin has since shed its bad reputation and is now more commonly referred to as “The City of Eternal Spring”, treating residents and visitors to consistently warm temperatures. Medellin is located in Aburra Valley and surrounded by seven hills that provide excellent views of the city. Back in town, visitors can experience the work of world-famous artists such as Fernando Botero in local parks and plazas, wonder at the beautiful display of Christmas lights during the festive season, and celebrate as the city is overrun with colour during the 10-day Feast of Flowers festival.
The Tayrona National Park is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta reserve and is one of the country’s most popular natural attractions. Once home to the Tayrona people, the area still encompasses sacred sites occupied by indigenous groups, and archaeological remains that include the pre-Hispanic town of Pueblito, an ancient town scattered with archaeological remains. Along with its cultural heritage, Tayrona is also known for some of the most beautiful beaches on the coast and an incredible array of wildlife – over 100 mammal species, 300 bird species and 1000 marine species can be found within the boundaries of the park.
The port city of Cartagena is set on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. It is a popular beach destination boasting a balmy tropical climate. This Caribbean coastal city offers visitors a mix of the enchanting old and the exciting new. Step into the cobbled streets of the walled city, a World Heritage Site with 400-year-old stone walls covering 13 kilometres, and explore an intricate maze of pastel-hued homes, colonial architecture, churches, and historic sites such as the Palace of the Inquisition. Outside the old city lies the chaotic bustle that is typical of most South American cities - an experience best sampled by visiting the Mercado Bazurto central market. Don't miss the opportunity to venture to the south of the city where tourists are treated to trendy cafes, restaurants and a buzzing nightlife.
