6 Tourist-Friendly Destinations in Colombia

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Villa de Leyva
Villa de Leyva (photo: Irene Serrano)
Bogota's Bolivar Plaza in December
Bogota’s Bolivar Plaza in December (photo: David Lee)

After quite a long time of being off the travel radar, Colombia is back in the game. There are few countries that have the mix of attractions that Colombia has.

Stunning rainforests, metropolitan cities, idyllic beaches, coffee plantations, archeological ruins, surfing and hiking are just some of the things that the country is great for.

We’ve listed a few of our favorites below to whet your appetite.

1. Bogota

The capital city of Colombia, once considered an absolute no go area, is packed with culture, including quaint churches dotted throughout the city.

The area of La Candelaria is popular with tourists and has a great café culture and lots of museums.

There are plenty of parks and public spaces to hang out after the daily rain has cleared, and a nightlife scene that will keep you dancing until the early hours if you so desire.

Villa de Leyva
Villa de Leyva (photo: Irene Serrano)

2. Villa de Leyva

Declared a national monument in 1954, the colonial town is preserved incredibly in it’s entirety with almost no modern-day buildings at all.

Commutable from the capital, Bogota, it is a popular weekend destination for locals, and thrives with hotels, craft shops and restaurants.

3. Providencia Island

If unspoilt white beaches, clear blue seas and friendly locals are your kind of trip, look no further that the Island of Providencia.

The island is blissfully small and has a traditional, homely feel about it. The island is popular for snorkeling and diving as well as hiking through the enormous rainforest.

With enough restaurants to keep you fed, but too few to be a tourist trap, this really is a little gem and worth the journey.

Parque Tayrona
Parque Tayrona (photo: David Lee)

4. Parque Tayrona

One of Colombia’s most popular national parks, Tayrona is situated along jungle covered coastline.

There is a small fee payable on entrance, but the scenery which varies from sandy beaches to deep, dark rainforests, make it completely worth it.

The deepest parts of the park are accessible with a guide, or on your own if you’re a skilled hiker. The beaches are set back in small coves and make for peaceful days of beach bumming.

5. Mompos

Surrounded by muddy rivers and thick vegetation, Mompos is a nightmare to get to. It’ll take you a considerable amount of time and a variety of transport including bus, boat and car. However, the town itself is wonderful.

Famous for hand-worked filigree gold jewellery, this is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir of your trip. It’s relaxed, laid back atmosphere will surprise you. It’s another great spot in this diverse country.

Paragliding in San Gil
Paragliding in San Gil (photo: Stephen Bugno)

6. San Gil

Officially named the tourist capital of the region, San Gil has a host of activities to entice the adventurous traveler.

Rafting, caving, kayaking, paragliding, and hiking are all regular activities that travellers can partake in on an almost daily basis. If the thrill seeker in you is shy, there is plenty of culture in this town to entertain you.

Officially formed in 1689, the town has plenty of park areas and open spaces to hang out in the day. Or take a trip on one of the world’s longest cable cars whilst seeing the breath-taking scenery.

While Colombia works on building its reputation up as a holiday hotspot, visit it now before the rest of the crowds realise what a gem it is!

For travel insurance deals in the UK please visit Direct Travel Insurance.

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