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.
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.
In the center of the western region of the Columbia, located in a small valley that descends from a part of the western Andes mountain chain, the picturesque university city of Pereira typically serves as a convenient base to explore the nearby postcard-perfect town of Salento. The region is backed by an exquisite landscape of lush, green undulating hills dotted with coffee plantations producing some of the world’s best coffee. It is also known as the gateway to Parque Ucumarí and Santuario Otún Quimbaya, a pair of impressive nature reserves; and the relaxing thermal springs of Santa Rosa and San Vicente. However Pereira itself has a charm of its own. Its cafe culture, nightlife and entertainment scene are bolstered by its large spirited student population and the city boasts a number of fascinating museums, state-of-the-art shopping malls, and some interesting landmarks such as the Bolivar Desnudo Monument and the Viaduct built in honor of former president Cesar Gaviria This clean, modern, and well organised city has so much more to offer than just its incredible coffee.
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.
