Top Best Places to Visit in Colombia: Unforgettable Destinations to Explore

A place full of unique landmarks, a nation with rich history and heritage — all of that is Colombia. The moment you start your trip, you ought to hundreds of places to visit in Colombia.

Colombia vacation spots in come in many forms — you can walk along white sandy beaches, hike through green mountains, or walk down old colonial streets. 

Every region has its different unique culture, cuisine and customs. In the north, you’ll discover the Caribbean’s warm waters and historic cities. Winding through the middle of the country are coffee farms and mountain towns. The south features Amazon adventures, while cities like Bogotá and Medellín display contemporary Colombian culture. 

Colombian people greet you with friendly smiles and amazing hospitality. You can also sample regional meals such as arepas, bandeja paisa or fresh tropical fruit.

This guide walks you through the top places to visit in Colombia. We’ll lead you to tourist traps and also to hidden marvels, from Cartagena’s vibrant old city to the quiet coffee region. 

Cartagena

One of the most beautiful places in Colombia is Cartagena with its colorful colonial architecture and Caribbean vibe. The historic coastal city has the best of both worlds to beachgoers and culture vultures.

• Plaza Santo Domingo — a lively square with outdoor restaurants and the famous Botero sculpture;
• San Felipe Castle — the largest Spanish fortress in the Americas;
• Las Bóvedas — former dungeons turned into craft shops;
• Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) — the old town’s main gate.

Medellin

Medellin is one of the best places to visit in Colombia – it might have had a troubled past, but it is all good now! This distinctive city, nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its near-perfect climate, is a marvel of how to transform a city for the better.

• Plaza Botero — home to bronze sculptures by Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most famous artist;
• Comuna 13 — a neighborhood famous for its outdoor escalators and colorful street art;
• Parque Arvi — a vast nature park reached by cable car, offering hiking trails and fresh air;
• Botanical Gardens — a peaceful green space with free entry and rare tropical plants.

Metro Cable shuttles you to different neighborhoods, giving you great views of the city. The city is at its colorful best during August when the Flower Festival is celebrated.

The Amazon Jungle

Almost a third of Colombia is the Colombian Amazon, one of the most fascinating places to visit. Leticia, the gateway to this natural wonder, invites visitors to “experience” the well-preserved beauty of the rainforest.

• Monkey Island — an island populated by several different species of monkeys, who climb freely through the trees;
• Indigenous communities — visits to local tribes to learn more about traditional ways of life;
• Pink dolphins — boat trips to spot these rare river dolphins in their natural habitat;
• Amacayacu National Park — ideal for wildlife watching and jungle rambles.

The dry season is the best time to visit. For the real jungle experience, stay in eco-lodges along the Amazon River.

Guatape

The colorful town of Guatape is one of the famous places in Colombia, only two hours away from Medellin. This drop-dead gorgeous spot is most famous for 

• El Peñol — a massive granite monolith that towers hundreds of meters above the ground.
• Zocalos — colorful ornamental panels on the walls of buildings that tell stories of the local life; 
• Plaza Mayor — the central square with bright buildings and local restaurants;
• Lake Guatape — ideal for boat tours and aquatic sports.

Everything is painted bright colours, decorated with simple patterns. Go for a day and stay the night to better experience the tranquil vibe.

Zona Cafetera

The Coffee Region (Zona Cafetera) is one of Colombia’s most beautiful regions, a landscape of rolling hills planted with coffee plants. 4. This region includes the departments of Caldas, Quindío and Risaralda.

• Coffee Farm Tours — learn about the journey from Colombian coffee plant to cup;
• Valle de Cocora — home to the world’s tallest palm trees and hiking trails;
• Salento — a traditional town, with rainbow-hued architecture;
• Thermal Springs — relaxing natural hot springs.

Jardin

Buried in the mountains of Antioquia, Jardin ranks as one of Colombia’s loveliest colonial towns. This off-the-beaten-path destination gives visitors a taste of authentic Colombian life away from overrun tourist routes.

• Plaza Principal — a vibrant main square with colorful chairs and neighborhood cafes;
• Neo-Gothic Basilica — a stunning church constructed from native stone;
• Cable Car — to get stunning views of the mountains around;
• La Garrucha — a wooden gondola used by local farmers.

Sample regional dishes at Café Europa, bird-watch at the Cock-of-the-Rock reserve, or visit a coffee plantation on a local tour.

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Tayrona National Park is arguably the most iconic place in Colombia where jungles meet Caribbean beaches. This coastal paradise boasts unspoiled beaches, rich biodiversity and an ancient indigenous culture. Cabo San Juan — iconic beach with blue water and palm trees;

• Arrecifes Beach – ideal for nature walks and wildlife watching;
• La Piscina — natural swimming pool sheltered by coral reefs;
• Indigenous villages — where ancient traditions of the Kogi people are practiced.

Sleep in eco-habs (luxury huts) or camp under the stars with your own equipment. Keep in mind that reservations for accommodations are required in full seasons. Strong currents prohibit swimming at some beaches, so observe local guidelines when swimming.

San Andres Island

One of the best vacations in Colombia is on San Andres Island with its clear waters and Caribbean vibes. This tiny coral island has white-sand beaches and the sea of seven colors.

• Johnny Cay — tiny cave ideal for snorkeling and lounging on the beach;
• West View — natural swimming pool with good diving;
• La Piscinita — a natural pool made by coral rocks;
• The Peak — the highest point on the island with panoramic views.

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

One of the unique places where to go in Colombia is the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the tallest coastal mountain range in the world. This unique ecosystem climbs from Caribbean beaches to snow-capped peaks in just 42 kilometers.

• Lost City Trek — ancient ruins predating Machu Picchu;
• Indigenous Communities — there are four native tribes;
• Nabusimake — sacred village of the Arhuaco people.
• Diverse Ecosystems — tropical forests and páramo.

Most tours are led by local guides from indigenous communities who share their expertise on the mountain’s ecology and culture. For accommodation, opt for eco-lodges or camping set up along the trek routes. When visiting Indigenous territory (traditional lands), please remember to respect local protocols and sacred spaces.

Rosario Islands

Colombia’s most beautiful land is the Rosario Islands, a medal-count of 27 small coral islands in the Caribbean Sea. The islands, an hour by boat from the Colombian city of Cartagena, are the perfect respite from the grind of urban living.

• Playa Blanca — gorgeous white-sand beach, turquoise water;
• Oceanario — mini aquarium featuring local sea creatures;
• Coral Reefs — the best place for snorkeling and scuba diving;
• Private Island Beaches — Jamaica’s exclusive resorts and public beaches

And whether your activity is primarily water sports or merely stretching out and taking it easy, Feast on fresh seafood at beach restaurants, take a snorkeling tour to encounter colourful fish or merely rock in a hammock facing the Caribbean. You are also recommended to book hotels in advance as there are a few and it is always in demand.

La Guajira Peninsula

The La Guajira Peninsula is one of Colombia’s most unusual places to visit, where the desert meets the Caribbean waters. This remote area gives visitors a unique landscape and indigenous experience.

• Cabo de la Vela — known for its red desert and turquoise waters;
• Punta Gallinas — point furthest north, in South America;
• Taroa Dunes — giant sand dunes where they meet up with the ocean;
• Wayuu Communities — indigenous communities known for handicrafts.

For an authentic experience, stay in traditional Wayuu rancherías (basic accommodations). Sample local foods such as fresh goat meat and seafood. Do not leave without purchasing colorful Wayuu mochilas (handwoven bags) that will not be found in a commercial store or direct from artisans. Based on the remoteness of the area, expect sparse conditions as it lacks tourist infrastructure.

Cali

Cali also stands out as one of the best cities to visit in Colombia for love to dance and culture lovers, as it is also the world’s salsa capital. His colorful city provides an authentic blend of music, cuisine and Afro-Colombian culture.

• Salsa Schools — take lessons at world-renowned academies;
• San Antonio — historic area with colonial-style architecture;
• Cristo Rey — big Jesus statue watching over the city;
• Barrio Granada — one of the most popular places in Colombia for restaurants and nightlife.

Take salsa classes at local schools, sample street food at Galería Alameda market, or watch the sunset from the Sebastián de Belalcázar monument. Be sure to sample Pacific coast cuisine, particularly seafood preparations such as aborrajados and champús. The nightlife in the Juanchito district features authentic salsa clubs where residents party until dawn.

Bogotá

Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, blends colonial character and urban life, and is one of the best part of Colombia to visit. This Andean city boasts incredible culture, museums and exciting food scenes.

• La Candelaria — historic center with colorful colonial buildings;
• Gold Museum — largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold in the world;
• Monserrate — mountaintop views of the city, accessible by gondola;
• Botero Museum — free gallery with famous Colombian art;
• Sunday Ciclovía — major thoroughfares shut for cycling and walking.

Sample local cuisine at the Paloquemao Market, take a graffiti tour around the historic district, or visit the Sunday flea market in Usaquén. Don’t miss having churos with hot chocolate, a Bogotá breakfast tradition. Its restaurants showcase Colombian cuisine past and present, from traditional to modern fusion.

Minca

Minca, a mountain village located in the Sierra Nevada, is a pretty tranquil place to visit in Colombia. This eco-tourism spot perches high above Santa Marta for a cool refuge from coastal heat.

• Los Pinos — the best spot for a sunrise on the Caribbean;
• La Victoria Coffee Farm — historic coffee plantation with original machinery;
• Marinka Waterfalls — swimming-friendly, two-level waterfalls;
• Casa Elemento — known for its mountain-view giant hammocks.

Lodges immersed in nature, cafes with locally-grown coffee to try or, hidden waterfalls (hiking will get you there). A variety of birds, including toucans and hummingbirds, can be spotted by bird-watchers. Even hostels and hotels here have yoga classes or meditation sessions, so Minca is ideal to relax and connect with nature.

Providencia

Spread across a remote Caribbean island, Providencia is one of the country’s most undisturbed vacation spots. This very small island has crystal-clear beaches, turquoise water and authentic Caribbean culture without so much pushing of tourists.

• Peak Forestry Reserve — highest point; panoramic views.
• Crab Cay — wonderful for snorkeling and swimming;
• McBean Lagoon — national protected area of marine interest, coral reefs.
• Southwest Bay — a peaceful beach with local eateries.

Activities revolve around water sports and relaxation. You can rent a golf cart to navigate the island, dine on fresh seafood at the local restaurants or snorkel in the third-largest barrier reef in the world. Caribbean culture is very much alive here, where locals speak Creole English in addition to Spanish.

Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena

Considered by many to be the best place to visit in Colombia, a set of natural attractions can be found in Serranía de La Macarena National Park — Caño Cristales, the “River of Five Colors” or “Liquid Rainbow.”

• Caño Cristales — multicolor river of red, yellow, green, blue and black;
• Crystal Pools — natural swimming areas with clear water;
• Ancient Rock Formations — millions of years old;
• Endemically occuring plants — Macarenia clavigera (amongst others).

Swimming is permitted only in designated areas to protect the sensitive ecosystem. Tours typically depart from La Macarena town, which is accessible by small plane from Bogotá or Villavicencio. Now, stay in simple local hotels, as this remote location has little luxury to offer.

San Gil

If you fancy adventure, San Gil, the adventure sports capital of Colombia, might have you covered. This cute little town in Santander offers some of the best outdoors stuff you can do in Colombia.

• White Water Rafting — on the Suarez and Fonce rivers;
• Paragliding — above picturesque canyon scenery;
• Caving — in the nearby Cueva del Indio;
• Mountain Biking — along scenic countryside trails.

Eat local Santander food, particularly hormigas culonas (toasted ants) and cabro (goat meat). Go to the main square for local life, or cool down at the Pozo Azul natural swimming hole. A lot of hostels and agencies give you packages that include several activities in one.

Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín

San Agustín Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most significant historical Colombia places to visit. This park is home to the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America.

• Forest of Statues — faceless stone warriors and deities;
• Fuente de Lavapatas —graven-in ceremonial fountain;
• archaeological museum — found objects on display;
• Alto de los Ídolos — secondary archaeological site.
• Tomb sites — ancient burial and sculptural grounds.

Consider hiring a local guide to explain the enigmatic history of these ancient sculptures. Another traditional means of visiting various sites are rodeo tours. If you are looking for comfy restaurants with local cuisine, San Augistin is a right place to choose too. Your perfect trip will end with some tasty, yet cheap food.

Costeño Beach

In between Tayrona National Park and Palomino, Costeño Beach boasts one of Colombia’s most relaxed swathes of attractions in Colombia. This place is for vibing. Calm walks around the beach, tranquil swimming and relaxing atmosphere — main ideas of this place. But if you want to add some heat — jump into the water for some surfing activity.

• Riding Waves — the best for beginners and intermediate surfers;
• Beach Hostels — sustainable stays on the sand;
• Sunset Views — stunning nighttime hues over the Caribbean;
• Yoga Classes — regular sessions facing the ocean.

Palomino

Palomino, where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the Caribbean Sea, is one of Colombia’s emerging Colombia tourist attractions. This tiny coastal town has everything you need for a mix of river, beach and mountain activities.

• Tubing — head down the Palomino River to the sea;
• Beach Walking — across pristine Caribbean coastline;
• Birdwatching — look for tropical species in nearby forests.
• Indigenous Culture — Kogi communities — with permission.

Palomino is often combined with trips to Tayrona National Park. The beach here extends for kilometers, ideal for long strolls or observing fishermen on the haul with their daily catch. Check out local indigenous territory guides and adhere to the community guidelines.

With Caribbean beaches and Andean mountains, there are endless places to go in Colombia. From exploring historic cities like Cartagena to hiking through coffee regions and relaxing on pristine islands, the best places in Colombia promise unforgettable adventures. Each destination presents this incredible diversity and warm hospitality this country has to offer.