Colombia is a colourful country of Caribbean beaches, Andean mountains, coffee farms and lively cities. It has reinvented itself and now welcomes travellers with famous warmth. Moreover, its music, from salsa to cumbia, is everywhere. So, it is one of the most exciting destinations in South America.
Most first trips combine Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena. Then, travellers add the Coffee Triangle or Tayrona National Park.
Read more about Colombia
Top Cities in Colombia
Bogotá
First, the capital sits high in the Andes at 2,600 metres. Visit the Gold Museum, the colonial La Candelaria district and the Botero Museum. Then, ride the cable car up Monserrate for great views. Read our Bogotá guide.
Medellín
Next, the “City of Eternal Spring” has a mild climate all year. Its cable cars and street art in Comuna 13 tell a story of transformation. Nearby, Guatapé offers a giant rock with 700 steps. Read our Medellín guide.
Cartagena and Cali
On the Caribbean coast, Cartagena de Indias has a walled old town full of colourful balconies. Meanwhile, Cali is the world capital of salsa.
Nature in Colombia
- The Coffee Triangle: Green hills and coffee farm tours.
- Cocora Valley: The tallest palm trees in the world.
- Tayrona National Park: Jungle meets Caribbean beaches.
- The Lost City trek: A multi-day hike to ancient ruins in the jungle.
- Tatacoa Desert: Red and grey canyons under starry skies.
- San Andrés and Providencia: Caribbean islands with turquoise water.
A Short History of Colombia
First, indigenous cultures such as the Muisca and the Tayrona crafted stunning gold. Then, Spain colonised the region from the 16th century. In 1819, Simón Bolívar led the fight for independence.
However, the 20th century brought long conflicts and the rise of drug cartels. You can learn more in our page on the history of the cartels. Since the 2016 peace agreement, the country has changed a lot, and tourism has grown quickly.
Food and Coffee in Colombia
First, try the bandeja paisa, a huge plate from the Medellín region. Also, arepas, empanadas and ajiaco soup in Bogotá are classics. Moreover, the tropical fruits are amazing, so try lulo, maracuyá and guanábana.
Of course, Colombian coffee is world-famous. So, visit a farm in the Coffee Triangle to see the whole process.
Festivals and Events
- February or March: the Barranquilla Carnival is one of the biggest in the world.
- August: the Flower Festival fills Medellín with parades.
- December: the Cali Fair celebrates salsa, and cities light up for Christmas.
Practical Tips
- Fly between cities: mountains make road travel slow.
- Use apps for taxis: avoid hailing taxis in the street at night.
- Stay alert: don’t show valuables, and follow local advice on areas to avoid.
For more ideas, see the official Colombia Travel website.
Basic Words and Expressions to Use in Colombia
English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas. So, a few words of Spanish make a real difference. Colombian Spanish is clear and polite, which makes it great for learners.
Finally, you will often hear “con mucho gusto” (with pleasure) instead of “de nada”. So, use it too and watch people smile.
Colombia Travel FAQ
We recommend two to three weeks for a first trip. That way, you can see Bogotá, Medellín, the Coffee Triangle and the Caribbean coast. With ten days, however, choose two or three regions.
Count $50 to $150 per person per day. Budget travellers stay near the lower end with hostels and local menus. However, Cartagena and island resorts cost more.
The best period is December to March, during the main dry season. Also, July and August are pleasant. However, the climate depends more on altitude than on the season.
Many nationalities can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Also, all visitors must complete the free Check-MIG form online before arrival. So, always check the latest requirements.
Restaurants usually suggest a 10% service charge on the bill. You can accept or refuse it, but it is customary to pay it.
Domestic flights are cheap and save many hours in the mountains. Also, long-distance buses link most towns. In cities, use the metro, cable cars or ride-hailing apps.
In short, the country offers vibrant cities, coffee hills, jungle and Caribbean beaches. So, combine Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena. Explore our detailed guides for each destination.