Whether you're a fan of architecture and history or prefer to spend your trips discovering natural wonders, you'll find lots to do in Colombia. This South American country is rich with attractions, from the tropical Rosario Islands near Cartagena to the colorful town of Guatapé, near the oft-photographed Peñol Rock monolith. Some of the best things to do in Colombia are in and around Bogota, including the historic La Candelaria neighborhood—home to many of the city’s historic attractions and museums—and the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, an easy day trip away.
The best time to visit Colombia is from December through February or July through August, when there’s generally less rainfall. Weather will vary depending on what part of the country you’re visiting. If you’re a fan of festivals, consider coming for the annual Barranquilla Carnival, which runs from the weekend before Lent through Fat Tuesday. Bogota’s Boyacá International Cultural Festival—a massive celebration of fine and performing arts—is another big draw and takes place every fall.
Colombia is well-served by buses and planes, and it’s easy to get between major cities and popular tourist areas. There are lots of domestic airline operators, including budget airlines. Bus service between major destinations is available, but journeys can take a long time. For local travel, shared taxi buses (colectivos), ride shares, and regular taxis are good options. The city of Medellín also has an excellent network of trams and metro trains.
If you want to bring some Colombian coffee back home with you, skip the souvenir shops and head to a local supermarket. While most shops sell standard local brands such as Sello Rojo, more upmarket grocers such as Carulla FreshMarket have a wider selection, complete with premium and organic options. Alternatively, visit one of the many coffee farms throughout the country, where you can sample and purchase beans right where they are produced.
Local Currency Colombian Peso (COP) | Time Zone COT (UTC -5) | Country Code +57 | Language(s) Spanish | Attractions 110 | Tours 3,383 | Reviews 82,910 |
As well as coffee and salsa dancing, Colombia is famous for its diverse natural landscapes, which range from tropical beaches of the Caribbean coast to the lush greenery of the Coffee Triangle. The most famous cities are Medellin and Cartagena. Top natural attractions include Tayrona National Park and the Lost City.
...MoreColombia offers a wealth of activities, including snorkeling and swimming in Tayrona National Park and the Rosario Islands; hiking through the Corcoran Valley or to the Lost City; exploring the colonial architecture of Bogota and Cartagena; white-water rafting in San Gil; and mud-bathing in the Totumo Volcano.
...MoreNo and yes. Unlike in the past, Colombia is now safe for travelers to visit. Little crime is reported in major tourist hot spots such as Caratgena, the Caribbean Coast, and Coffee Zone. However, parts of Bogota and Medellin do see high crime rates, so keep alert, especially at night.
...MoreWhen it comes to cities, Colombia’s two major tourist attractions are Cartagena—close to Tayrona National Park and the Lost City—and Medellin, which also serves as a convenient getaway to Guatape and its famous Penon de Guatape, plus the Coffee Zone and Corcoran Valley.
...MoreColombia’s Caribbean Coast is best for families. Spend time exploring the colorful city of Cartagena before enjoying fun in the sun at the Rosario Islands or San Andres Island, which is a short flight from the mainland—its sandy beaches, calm seas, and relaxed atmosphere are ideal for kids.
...MoreColombia’s must-see sights span jungles, rivers, mountains, and beaches—don’t miss the unspoiled beaches of Tayrona National Park; colorful Cartagena Old Town; recently transformed Medellin; Corcoran Valley in the Coffee Zone; mountain paradise of Minca; street art of capital city of Bogota; and a jungle-clad hike to the Lost City.
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