Colombia in South America is blessed with impressive mountains, Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, archaeological ruins, cultural sites and a slice of the Amazon rainforest. It is also a lively country where you can dance to the rhythm of salsa as you enjoy pina coladas while partying on the beach till daybreak!
Capital Bogota, set 2,640 metres above sea level, is one of the most high-altitude cities in the world. It has a vibrant cityscape and displays a mix of modern and colonial architecture. The historic La Candelaria neighborhood is where you will find the city’s major landmarks, museums, restaurants and shops. Plaza Bolivar – Bogota’s main square, Casa de Narino – a neoclassical presidential building, Iglesia de San Francisco – the city’s oldest church and museums like Museo Santa Clara, Museo del Oro, Museo Nacional, Museo Botero and Colección de Arte are important sites in the capital.
Colombia’s second-city Medellin is often called the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its year-long spring-like climate. It is known for its numerous parks, plazas, botanical gardens and great food. Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a historic port city with a UNESCO world heritage listed old town. The well-preserved walled old town is dotted with colourful buildings, massive churches and plazas. The city is also gifted with lovely beaches.
The country’s central region houses two enchanting towns and national monuments – Barichara and Villa de Leyva. While Villa de Leyva is known for its whitewashed buildings and laid-back vibe, Barichara’s colonial charm is enhanced by its stunning natural setting.
The abandoned city of Ciudad Perdida is a great example of Colombia’s ancient glory. Be prepared for a long trek (almost 4-5 days) in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains to discover this archaeological gem.
Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world and its numerous parks and natural reserves stand testimony to this fact. More than 56,000 species of biota are found here, of which over 9000 are endemic. It is home to the breathtaking mountain range of Sierra Nevada del Cocuy whose mighty snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, glaciers and lakes offer stunning views and attract trekkers and hikers. Los Nevados National Natural Park, known for its snow-capped volcanoes, forests, glaciers, rivers and lakes and Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona famed for its golden-sand Caribbean beaches, lagoons and palm-fringed coves are Colombia’s natural treasures.
Name anything you want from a vacation – leisure, never-ending beaches, treks and hikes, historical sites, exotic wildlife, picturesque towns or a great nightlife, Colombia has it all. Sure, it has long been in the limelight for all the wrong reasons, but that doesn’t make its appeal as the gateway to South America, any lesser.
The amazing archaeological gem from the 8th century Ciudad Perdida requires a long trek (almost 4-5 days) in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.
