Colombia is an thrilling and numerous vacation spot. If you happen to’re a traveller who loves journey, welcoming folks, stunning surroundings and affordability, then Colombia is for you. We fell in love with this South American nation after 6 weeks of travelling right here. There are such a lot of issues to do in Colombia that we may have stayed for much longer.

Learn on for our high 50 issues to do in Colombia — together with sights, actions, and meals! 

This publish has been up to date for 2020 to incorporate the newest prices, instructions, excursions, and to listing one of the best issues to do in your journey to Colombia. Pleased travels!

1. Trek to the Misplaced Metropolis (probably the most superb issues to do in Colombia)

The Ciudad de Perdida (the Misplaced Metropolis) is situated deep in the jungle of the Sierra Mountains. The purpose of the 4-day trek is to succeed in the fascinating, hidden ruins that had been constructed in 850AD by the Tayrona folks. The 4-day journey is epic. Be ready to sleep on bunk beds, trek via the mud and cross rivers. That is an journey you’ll always remember. Of all the issues to do in Colombia, this was our favorite.

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2. Make Mates

The folks of Colombia are extremely welcoming. On quite a few events, we had chats with the locals — whether or not it was at our hostel, on the road or on the bus. They’re keen and prepared to speak with foreigners. Converse to anybody who has travelled to Colombia they usually’ll agree, the folks of Colombia are fantastic. Extra seemingly than not, you’ll forge lifelong friendships.

3. Go On An Island Journey

The islands off the Caribbean coast of Colombia are attractive. While you’re in Cartagena, you’ll be supplied a visit to Playa Blanca (white seaside). Though stunning, and common for good purpose, this seaside is busy with day-trippers. For a extra genuine journey think about one of many islands in the Rosario Archipelago or the San Bernardo Archipelago — Isla Grande, Isla Múcura, or Isla Tintipan…to call a number of.

If you happen to’re in testing Playa Blanca (White Seashore), click on right here for tour particulars. Or, for a extra thrilling journey, think about crusing to the Rosario Islands (with snorkelling and meals included). Click on right here for particulars on that tour from Cartagena — it’s one of many high issues to do in town. 

4. Dance The Evening Away

All through the nation, you’ll hear music enjoying. There are quite a few night time golf equipment the place you may bust a transfer. Town of Cali is the salsa capital of the world, whereas in Cartagena you’ll discover a combine between salsa, Afro-Caribbean drum beats, and Cumbia. You’ll additionally come throughout American music, rock and pop. The style of music you’ll encounter in Colombia relies on which area you might be in. When you have an opportunity to look at some skilled salsa dancers, do it!

5. Be taught Spanish

If you happen to’re going to journey to Colombia, you had higher brush up in your Spanish-speaking skills! Not many individuals in this nation communicate English, so having not less than the fundamentals of Spanish is a should. There are some glorious colleges you may attend in Medellín, Bogotá and Cartagena. The Toucan Spanish Faculty is very really useful. Studying to talk some Spanish is without doubt one of the most essential issues to do in Colombia.

6. Hike the Valle de Cocora: Considered one of Our Favorite Things To Do in Colombia

Surrounding the city of Salento in the espresso division of Quíndio, you’ll discover the picturesque Valle de Cocora. This space is particular as a result of the nationwide tree of Colombia (Wax Palm) grows right here. Dotting the panorama are these cartoon-like, 60m excessive bushes. A five-hour hike via the cloud forest is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Colombia as a complete, and particularly in Salento.

SEE ALSO: Mountain climbing the Valle de Cocora: A How-To Information For Travellers

7. Be taught About Espresso

Colombian espresso is world-renowned, so it could be a disgrace should you travelled to Colombia and didn’t study in regards to the course of, from bean to cup. You could find espresso excursions and farms in the “Espresso Triangle” of Quindío, Caldas and Risaralda. A preferred space for travellers who’re in espresso is Salento in the Quindío division. Excursions are very low cost (20,000 pesos, round $6) and the surroundings is beautiful. Try Ocaso Farm and Don Elias.

SEE ALSO: Enjoyable in Salento: A Spotlight of Colombia’s Espresso Area

8. Go Paragliding

The Chicamocha Canyon is situated in the Santander Division, about an hour’s drive exterior of San Gil. This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go paragliding in the nation. The canyon is without doubt one of the largest in the world and the surroundings is excellent. Try Parapente Chicamocha who presents 30+ minute flights for 180,000 pesos ($55). This is without doubt one of the most adventurous issues to do in Colombia for positive!

SEE ALSO: 15 Things To Do in San Gil: Colombia’s Journey Capital

9. Get a Protein Overload

The standard dish of the Paisa area of Colombia and the Antioquia Division is bandeja paisa. This large platter of meals consists of fried egg, sausages, floor beef, pork stomach, beans, plantain, rice, avocado and arepa (constructed from floor corn). This big plate of meals will run you round $16,000 pesos ($5), and might be shared between 2 folks.

10. Go to a Soccer (Soccer) Match

If there’s one factor Colombians love, it’s soccer! They’re extremely passionate in regards to the workforce they’re rooting for. Try video games in Medellín or Bogotá, and ensure you sit near the rowdy followers, however indirectly in their part. That is most likely one of many craziest issues to do in Colombia, it’s a lot enjoyable.

SEE ALSO: Canadians in Colombia: Experiencing a Soccer Recreation in Medellín

11. Play Tejo

Tejo is a conventional sport in Colombia that originated in the Pre-Columbian period (the time earlier than European affect in Colombia).

You’ll discover tejo halls in smaller cities and in the large cities as properly. Principally, you toss a lead disc (underhand) in the direction of a mound of clay that has little packets of gunpowder. If the packets explode, you rating some factors. This recreation is performed with beer…a lot of beer. There are two locations to play in Salento – Los Amigos and Betatown, with the previous being probably the most native. If you happen to’re questioning what to do in Colombia in the course of the evenings, visiting a tejo corridor is it!

12. Go On a Strolling Tour

There are free strolling excursions all world wide, that are run by younger, passionate locals who’re in sharing their metropolis with you. In Colombia, the strolling excursions in Medellín, Cartagena and Bogotá are a good way to get located in town, study in regards to the historical past, and listen to about some nice spots to eat, dance and go to!

The excursions are primarily based on suggestions, so should you’re pleased with the tour, a tip is predicted. There are lots of issues to do in Medellin, however you must do that if you first arrive. *Notice, these are giant group strolling excursions and you should make your technique to the place to begin. For a personal metropolis tour which incorporates pick-up, click on right here.

SEE ALSO: Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Medellín Strolling Tour

13. Test Out The Road Artwork

The road artwork in Colombia is superb, and in specific, the artwork in the capital of Bogotá. Whether or not or not road artwork is authorized in Bogotá is a little bit of a gray space, however regardless, the murals and politically charged creations on the buildings across the previous city are stunning. Try the free graffiti tour, which relies on suggestions.

If you happen to’re in Medellin, don’t miss the highly-rated road artwork tour that goes to the Comuna 13 — a considerably harmful a part of town. 

SEE ALSO: The Large Metropolis of Bogotá: Our Go to to The Colombian Capital

14. Go to Costeño Seashore

If you happen to’re on the lookout for a chilled-out, rustic seaside vacation spot in Colombia, don’t miss Costeño Seashore. Situated simply exterior of Tayrona Nationwide Park, it is a good spot for stress-free with a e-book in hand. There’s not a lot to do right here, however that’s the purpose.

Eat nice meals or keep on the American owned Costeño Seashore Hostel and Surf Lodge, keep in cute little bungalows at Tayrona Tented Lodge, and wander down the dust paths in search of coconuts. We spent 2 nights and will have stayed longer. A go to to this offtrack seaside is without doubt one of the coolest issues to do in Colombia.

SEE ALSO: Costeõ Seashore Paradise: The Different Tayrona Nationwide Park Expertise

15. Hike Tayrona Nationwide Park

This nationwide park is a primary spotlight of a visit to Colombia. Situated on the northern shores, folks flock right here for the mountaineering, swimming, and sleeping in hammocks. The favored journey is to do an in a single day hike to Cabo San Juan de Guia seaside and spend the night time in a hammock overlooking the ocean. This may be numerous enjoyable (climate allowing), and the surroundings is spectacular. Be sure to verify on-line to see if the park is open earlier than you make your means on the market.

16. Be a Seashore Bum

Bordered by each the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, there are quite a few seashores so that you can laze on in Colombia. For an idyllic, usually Caribbean seaside, try Playa Blanca and the seashores in the Rosario Archipelago and San Bernardo islands.

If you happen to’re prepared to go additional north in the direction of Nicaragua, be sure that to take a look at the attractive (Colombia owned) islands of San Andres and Providencia. Within the metropolis of Cartagena, there are additionally a few good golden seashores. And naturally, go to Costeño seaside as listed above.

17. Discover the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas Fort

A go to to this fort is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Cartagena. You’ll discover this unbelievable fort looming over town. Situated on the Hill of San Lorenzo, this Spanish fort was constructed in 1536 and could be very well-preserved. It is a good spot to look at the sundown!

18. See Dinosaur Fossils

That is most likely probably the most sudden issues to do in Colombia. Villa de Leyva has fairly a number of dinosaur fossils. Of specific curiosity is the Kronosaurus, a 10-meter-long marine predator which was found by a farmer in 1977. This million-year-old beast is fairly unbelievable! You may cycle right here from Villa de Leyva, or stroll, or take a taxi.

Many individuals go to Villa de Leyva on a day journey from Bogotá. Throughout the day, you’ll see the dinosaur fossils, the loopy home (beneath), Boyacá Bridge, the city of Ráquira, and far more. Try these two, extremely rated excursions from Bogotá to Villa de Leyva:

19. Go to a Loopy Home

Throughout your journey to see the Kronosaurus, you could as properly cease by the “Loopy Home”, or Casa Terracota, which was constructed solely out of clay — no different supplies had been used! The home was then baked in the solar to set, and there you may have it, the loopy home.

20. Hike Up Monserrate Mountain

This mountain dominates the middle of the large metropolis of Bogotá. There’s a 17th-century church on the high of the mountain (which is at an elevation of three,152m), plus some outlets and cafes. That is thought of a holy spot and was even in pre-Columbian instances. To get to the highest, you may hike, experience a horse, take the funicular, hop on the aerial tram, or be part of a tour (which incorporates meals as properly).

21. Eat Buñuelos

If you happen to’re on the lookout for an affordable snack, end up a buñuelo. These tacky, doughy, deep-fried balls are tasty and low cost — however not very wholesome. The perfect ones we had had been in Medellín close to to Botero Plaza.

22. Eat Ajiaco Soup in Bogotá

This regional specialty is fabricated from hen, corn, and potato, with a facet of avocado, rice, capers, and cream. It’s hearty and scrumptious. The perfect place to attempt it’s at Puerta Falsa in the previous city of La Candalaria in Bogotá. Attempting genuine, regional meals is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Colombia. Don’t miss this superb soup in Bogotá.

23. Hike from Barichara to Guane

The little city of Barichara is picture-perfect…and so is the hike from there to the even smaller city of Guane. The Camino Actual in between these two cities takes solely about 2 hours to hike, and there’s one spot alongside the way in which the place you should buy water, or beer. This stroll is without doubt one of the most peaceable issues to do in Colombia.

24. Spend the Day in Barichara

Barichara might be the prettiest metropolis we ever noticed throughout our journey to Colombia. The city presents cobblestone streets, quiet plazas, whitewashed buildings, rust-coloured tiled roofs, and a calming vibe. There’s additionally a extremely nice wholesome restaurant right here referred to as Shanti! From San Gil, Barichara makes for a straightforward day journey.

25. Have a good time Carnival in Barranquilla

Carnival is well known at completely different instances world wide, with the one in Colombia kicking off in February. The Carnival celebrations in town of Barranquilla are to not be missed! For 4 days, the streets are closed and crammed with folkloric dancing, parades, masquerades and all sorts of music.

26. See The Amazon

Colombia is such a various nation, and if in case you have an opportunity to make all of it the way in which to the southeast close to the Brazilian border, go for it. Indigenous cultures, unbelievable wildlife, and exquisite landscapes are simply a few of the belongings you’ll discover.

27. See the Superb Salt Cathedral

Do you know that there’s an underground Roman Catholic church in Colombia? Neither did we. Situated exterior of Bogotá, 200 meters underground in the tunnels of a salt mine is that this church, which is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot and pilgrimage website. Try this top-rated tour and e-book your journey to this spectacular website.

28. Hike 740 Steps up Piedra Peñol

Situated in the city of El Peñol, on the border with Guatapé, is that this large granite rock. Hike up the 740 steps for incredible views from the highest. There are a few eating places right here and a few drinks on the market. This hike is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do in Colombia, as many individuals enterprise right here on a day journey from Medellin.

It’s attainable to take public transport to Guatape from Medellin. However for many who need a less complicated means, try at the present time journey, which is run by Excursions Guatape who has a 4.5-star ranking on TripAdvisor.

29. Go Caving

San Gil is named Colombia’s journey playground, and should you’re into caving, you gained’t need to miss the Cow Cave. This cave resembles a cenote in Mexico, because it’s underground. You’ll be partially submerged in water, and at instances, absolutely submerged. There are stalagmites and stalactites, bats and slim areas. This is without doubt one of the coolest caves ever. Try our expertise: Our Journey to San Gil – An Adventurer’s Dream Vacation spot

30. Pattern Chocolate & Cheese

Chocolate con queso is strictly what it feels like — chocolate with cheese. Folks from Bogotá love having sizzling chocolate with bits of cheese on the facet. Principally, you submerge the items of cheese into the recent chocolate and as soon as melted, you drink it. An odd, however scrumptious mixture.

31. Trip the Gondola in Medellín

The folks of Medellín are very pleased with their gondola (metro cable), and so they need to be. Earlier than 2004, those that lived exterior of the middle of town, in the much less developed neighbourhoods, needed to spend 2.5 hours commuting to work. Common buses and the metro line couldn’t attain them up on the hill. So, the federal government created the metro cable, which has actually improved the standard of life for these folks.

As a vacationer, using the metro cable is a good way to see a few of the different barrios round Medellín.

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32. See Botero’s Sculptures

The well-known Colombian artist and sculptor, Fernando Botero, is thought for his “fats” items of artwork. Principally, he makes every little thing look larger than it truly is — particularly folks. Try a bunch of his sculptures round Plaza Botero in Medellín, which can be a terrific place to folks watch.

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33. Hike Round Parque Arví

On the finish of the Metrocable in Medellín, you’ll arrive at Parque Arví. It is a nice technique to escape the noise of town and get into nature. There are some nice mountaineering trails right here and some small eating places. This is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Medellin for positive.

34. Sail to The San Blas Islands

The well-known San Blas Islands are situated off the coast of Panama. However, should you’re up for an journey, reasonably than visiting them throughout your journey to Panama, you may sail there from Colombia! There’s a quick boat and a gradual boat various. Do your analysis earlier than selecting an organization as high quality can range.

35. Fly to San Andrés & Providencia Islands

Situated offshore from Nicaragua are the Colombian owned islands of San Andrés and Providencia. These islands are pristine and common for good purpose. If you happen to’re on the lookout for an beautiful seaside vacation with glorious scuba diving, be sure that to take a look at these islands. A go to right here is without doubt one of the extra offtrack issues to do in Colombia.

36. Go Scuba Diving

For these of you who need to get licensed for scuba diving, try Taganga. If you happen to’re already licensed and need to get underwater, don’t miss San Andrés and Providencia. These islands have partitions of coral, wrecks and bigger marine life. Gorgona Island presents giant groupers, turtles, whales, and even whale sharks! Mapelo Island is the place to go to see sharks – hammerheads, ragged tooth, and sand tiger sharks, to call a number of.

37. Go to the Gold Museum in Bogotá

Within the previous city of Bogotá, you’ll discover the gold museum (Museo del Oro). It is a must-visit in case you are in pre-Colombian instances. There are quite a few gold and steel exhibitions, in addition to pottery, stone, wooden, and textiles. A number of the objects are even behind a vault door! The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00-5:00, and Sundays from 10:00-4:00. The fee to enter is 3,000 pesos ($0.90), making it one of many most cost-effective issues to do in Colombia!

38. Attempt Aguardiente

This anise flavoured liquor is the preferred in Colombia (besides in the Caribbean area the place rum is the best choice). The alcohol content material is pretty excessive (24% – 29%), and it’s low cost to purchase. This drink isn’t usually blended with something, simply drank straight up. You’ll see males ingesting this in small bars, and on the streets.

39. Drink BBC Beer

BBC Beer, or Bogotá Beer Firm, is a good artisanal beer firm discovered throughout Colombia. While you’re bored with the “common” beers on provide, try one among their ales, lagers or wheat beers! BBC bars are discovered round Bogotá, and the beer itself might be discovered countrywide.

40. Dance at Havana Bar in Cartagena

If you happen to’ve been to Havana, Cuba, your first impressions of Cartagena could be that it appears just like Havana. To add to that feeling, there’s a Havana Bar that’s nice for salsa dancing and mojitos! There’s even a 9-man band enjoying unbelievable music. Don’t miss this bar in the Gestimaní space of Cartagena.

SEE ALSO: Fascinating Cartagena: Too Touristy, or Justifiably Well-liked?

Try our Cartagena Journey Video right here:

41. Attempt Arepas

It is a Colombian and Venezuelan meals that you should attempt at a road stall — particularly after coming dwelling from the bar. This common snack is constructed from floor maize flour and might be served complete, or minimize in half to make a little bit sandwich/pocket. Arepas are often crammed with beans, cheese, avocado, or meat. The perfect half? They solely price round $1.

42. Go White Water Rafting

As with paragliding, there are a few nice spots for white water rafting round San Gil. Rio Suarez is the preferred choice as a result of it’s more difficult and actually will get the adrenaline pumping, however Rio Fonce can be stunning and might be loved by weaker swimmers and even youngsters over the age of 5. Click on right here for a extremely really useful firm.

43. Be Blown Away on the Las Lajas Sanctuary

This Basilica Church is not like another in the world. Situated in the southern area of Colombia, you’ll discover this church which is 100 meters from the canyon ground. Not solely is the structure superb, however there are various legends related to therapeutic and the looks of the Virgin Mary. It is a spot for vacationers and pilgrims as properly. Click on right here to seek out it on the map.

44. Cowl Your self in Mud at El Totumo

Have you ever ever wished to drift in a mud volcano? Nicely, in Colombia, you may. Simply 45 minutes from Cartagena is a volcano crammed with mud. You cowl your self in the mud and float contained in the crater. A really random expertise! Click on right here for particulars on learn how to get there, the fee and extra. 

45. Eat Patacones

These are among the best snacks/lunches in Colombia! Plantains are smashed (flattened) and fried earlier than being topped together with your alternative of meat, cheese, and greens. However, one of the best half is the favored hogao sauce which is constructed from tomatoes and onions. The perfect patacones we sampled had been in Salento, for less than round $1. Yum!

46. Go to Popayán

Nicknamed the “White Metropolis”, you’ll instantly see why if you arrive right here. Most of the buildings are painted white! Popayán can be identified for its church buildings and non secular processions, in addition to being a really spectacular colonial city.

47. Go to Jardín & The Cave of Splendor

Jardín is a good looking espresso city and makes for a wonderful day journey from town of Medellín. You may study espresso, or simply take in the ambiance of the peaceable city. However, should you’re feeling barely extra adventurous you must try the Cave of Splendor. This cave has a waterfall inside it and is reached after a 6-hour hike by foot, or by horse. Click on right here to study extra in regards to the common tour to Jardin and the Cave of Splendor.

48. Drink Espresso in Guatapé

Guatapé makes for a terrific day journey from Medellín. However, many individuals select to spend the night time right here and benefit from the peace and quiet after all the day-trippers flee the city. With vibrant streets, nice espresso outlets, cute plazas and a chilled-out vibe, this is a superb place to go to.

See Our Guatape Journey Video Right here:

49. See the Sand Dunes

The Taroa Dunes are part of the La Gujira Desert and are situated on the very northern tip of South America. This space is barely on vacationer’s radar and getting here’s a little bit of a problem, however one that’s well worth the effort. The sandy dunes tumble-down to the Caribbean Sea – the surroundings is out of this world, and also you actually really feel such as you’re someplace in the Persian Gulf reasonably than Latin America.

50. Soak Up The Vibe of Cartagena

There’s simply one thing about Cartagena. From the wrought-iron balconies of vibrant buildings to the boys promoting lime juice from road carts, the vibe in Cartagena is all the time thrilling. There are quite a few bars, eating places, sights and plazas. The individuals are upbeat and pleasant and the native dishes are scrumptious. Do not miss Cartagena, there are limitless issues to do right here.

Bonus! #51. Gawk at The Caño Cristales

Have you ever ever seen a multicoloured river earlier than? It needs to be seen to be believed! The “Crystal Channel”, or Rainbow River because it’s identified by travellers is a pure phenomenon in Colombia that you simply gained’t need to miss. Situated in La Macarena, this gorgeous river is the results of the macarenia clavigera plant residing on the river ground, and the colors that you simply see rely upon the water ranges and the quantity of solar the plant is receiving. Anticipate blues, pinks, oranges and deep reds.

The perfect time to go to Caño Cristales is between July and November. 

Prepared for all the enjoyable issues to do in Colombia?!

Colombia has one thing for everybody, irrespective of your journey fashion. We hope you loved our listing of issues to do in Colombia. For extra on planning and making ready on your journey, try our Colombia Articles and our Colombia Movies! Get pleasure from.

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