Why you should travel to Colombia

Why travel to Colombia? For starters, it’s one of South America’s most vibrant, diverse, and welcoming destinations. Colombia has come a long way from its turbulent past, emerging as a country full of color, culture, and unforgettable experiences. From ancient cities and white-sand Caribbean beaches to dramatic Andean peaks and lush jungle trails, Colombia is a place where adventure meets authenticity.

Whether you’re drifting through crystal-clear waters, hiking to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), or dancing salsa in the streets of Cali, you’ll find a nation proud of its heritage and overflowing with energy. Colonial towns like Barichara offer a step back in time, while urban hubs pulse with street art, music, and incredible food. If you’re wondering why travel to Colombia for your next trip, let this guide inspire you. With the insight of our local experts, we’ve highlighted some of the country’s top experiences to help you start planning.

The boundless culture

Colombian culture isn’t a single identity, it’s a vibrant tapestry of stories, quirks, and colors. One of the most captivating things about the country is its refusal to be neatly defined. Divided into six distinct geographic regions, each with its own dialects, cuisine, music, and customs, Colombia offers a richly varied travel experience.

The capital city is a great starting point for immersing yourself in Colombian culture. Bogotá is bursting with energy and home to more than forty museums catering to all kinds of interests. Art lovers can explore the bold and unmistakable works of famed painter and sculptor Fernando Botero at the Museo Botero del Banco de la República. Just a short walk away, the Museum of Modern Art showcases impressive pieces by leading Latin American artists. And if ancient history isn’t your thing, prepare to be converted after a visit to the Museo del Oro. This must-see museum spans three floors and features 55,000 glittering artifacts from Colombia’s pre-Hispanic civilizations.

Bogotá is also a city of contrasts, where grand colonial architecture stands side-by-side with powerful political street art. The city’s walls act as an open-air gallery, rich with history and expression. For a deeper understanding, take a guided graffiti tour through the narrow alleyways and discover the voices and stories of Bogotá’s past and present.

Food and dance are the heart and soul of Colombian culture, uniting the country’s diverse traditions in unforgettable ways. The city of Cali, known as the world’s salsa capital, proudly celebrates its caleño identity, a vibrant blend of Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Music weaves these cultural threads together, and Cali’s electric energy is something you have to feel for yourself. Salsa rhythms pulse through the city, growing louder as the sun goes down. As night falls, Cali comes alive. Catch a live performance, take a salsa class, or hit the dance floor at Zaperoco Salsa Bar, a beloved local institution. And if you need a little liquid courage, try a lulada, a refreshing cocktail made with lulo fruit, ice, sugar, and a splash of vodka.

Colombia is also world-famous for its coffee, and a visit wouldn’t be complete without heading into the hills of the Tierra Paisa. Tour a local coffee plantation to learn about the growing and brewing process, sample freshly roasted beans, and soak in the lush, green surroundings. Be sure to explore the scenic hiking trails that crisscross the Zona Cafetera, including highlights like Salento, a colorful mountain town rich in tradition, and the Valle de Cocora, home to the tallest palm trees on Earth. For a quieter experience off the beaten path, stop by the charming towns of Pijao and Filandia, both known for their laid-back vibes, stunning views, and strong coffee culture.

Read more: Colombia’s best festivals, food, art & more

Its fascinating history

Before the Spanish Inquisition, Colombia was home to a thriving population of Indigenous Amerindian communities, with hundreds of distinct tribes spread across the region. Long before Machu Picchu was even built, the ancient city of Teyuna, also known as Ciudad Perdida, or “The Lost City”, was founded around 800 AD by the Tayrona people who once inhabited this area.

Today, reaching Ciudad Perdida is an unforgettable adventure. The only way to access the site is by embarking on a challenging five-day trek deep into the Sierra Nevada mountains. The journey takes you from pristine white-sand trails through dense jungle, across fast-moving rivers, and finally up a steep stone staircase. At the summit, over 200 ancient terraces sprawl across the landscape, elevated 3,600 feet above sea level, an awe-inspiring reward for any traveler.

As you stroll through Colombia’s bustling cities, the influence of Spanish colonialism is impossible to miss. Cartagena stands out as the country’s most striking colonial gem. Run your fingertips along the 400-year-old stone walls that encircle the city and walk through La Puerta del Reloj, where all your senses are awakened by Cartagena’s vibrant charm. The city’s rich history is ever-present, splashes of colorful paint brighten cobblestone streets lined with 16th-century homes and intricate balconies. Cartagena was the first foothold of the Spanish Inquisition in the Americas, and the city’s architecture reflects this layered past, blending colonial design with later Republican-era additions like the cathedral’s iconic bell tower.

Make your way to the Palace of the Inquisition to learn more about this sobering chapter of Colombian history. While the Old Town serves as a living monument to the past, it’s anything but sleepy. For a dose of local creativity, stop by the nearby Calle de la Gobernación, a pop-up artisan market where you’ll find handmade jewelry and unique crafts. Afterward, head to Café del Mar, perched on the city walls, to sip a perfectly crafted mojito as you watch the sun sink into the Caribbean Sea.

Travel to Colombia to experience the great outdoors

Colombia is home to 42 national parks, and many that were once considered unsafe for travelers have now become thriving eco-tourism destinations. One of the most stunning is Tayrona National Natural Park, trek through an enchanting kingdom of emerald rainforest and marvel at thundering waterfalls along the way. Head closer to the coast, and you’ll find pristine white sand beaches and sparkling waters. Chat with the costeños (people from the coast) and embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Palm-fringed coves are dotted with bamboo shacks selling cold beers and fresh ceviche, a welcome treat after a challenging hike. If you prefer scaling soaring peaks, the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountain range lies just north of the park, promising jaw-dropping adventures.

Though not widely known for its beaches, Colombia boasts over 2,900 miles of breathtaking coastline teeming with marine wildlife. The Rosario Islands capture this allure and are easily reachable from Cartagena. Nestled in this archipelago are unspoiled Caribbean shores, majestic mangrove tunnels, and turquoise waters that stretch into deep azure beyond. The well-preserved coral reefs and underwater wrecks make it a diver’s paradise. After enjoying an unbeatable sunset, head to Isla Grande’s water lake at nightfall and experience the magical glow of phosphorescent plankton. As you move through the water, the plankton emit a greenish light, giving the lake a mystical, otherworldly feel.

Read more: The best national parks in Colombia

The undiscovered wonders of Colombia

As a rapidly growing travel destination, Colombia’s lesser-known gems can sometimes get overshadowed by the hype. The country hosts around 730 festivals each year, with the most famous being the Carnaval de Barranquilla every February. Move over Rio Carnival, this wild rum-fueled party is one for the books. Cali’s annual Petronio Alvarez Festival proudly celebrates the musical heritage of Colombia’s African descendants. This lively five-day event draws international artists who express their love for the culture through vibrant lyrics, drums, and dance. For theater fans looking for something different than the Edinburgh Fringe, Bogotá’s Ibero-American Theater Festival is one of the largest performing arts festivals in the world, showcasing unforgettable performances from all five continents.

Countless off-the-beaten-path colonial villages with cobblestone streets are scattered throughout Colombia. These towns are uncrowded, their artistry captivating, and life moves at a more relaxed pace. If you’re wondering why travel to Colombia, places like Barichara offer a perfect answer. While Cartagena is famous for its stunning architecture, the lesser-known Barichara is a strong contender. Enjoy wandering through its charming alleyways, listen to stories from local artisans, and if you’re feeling adventurous, visit Color de Hormiga to try their local specialty: filet mignon served in ant sauce topped with fried ants, it’s surprisingly delicious. From Barichara, you can hike two hours to the tiny village of Guane to get a real feel for rural life. Just north of Bogotá lies the village of Suesca, whose lake was a sacred site for the pre-colonial Muisca Civilization, where religious rituals were held on its shores. The town carries a distinct indigenous vibe.

Though Brazil holds the crown for biodiversity, Colombia is home to incredible wildlife as well, especially in the eastern plains of Los Llanos. Jump in a jeep or saddle up a horse to explore Colombia’s version of a safari. Keep an eye out for deer, anacondas, capybaras, and if you’re really lucky, jaguars! And while Colombia’s Caribbean coast often steals the spotlight, the lesser-known Pacific coast quietly awaits. With no roads leading there, Chocó remains an untouched sanctuary where you can spot humpback whales and vibrant coral reefs. These hidden gems are just a few reasons why travel to Colombia is so rewarding.

Make it happen

It’s no surprise that this hidden gem is quickly rising in popularity and we’ve only just begun to explore everything Colombia has to offer. Why travel to Colombia? With its vibrant people, rich and soulful cultures, and breathtaking natural beauty, Colombia truly has something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, this incredible country delivers it all in abundance. Connect with our local experts to design a personalized trip that brings the best of Colombia straight to you. Your unforgettable journey awaits!