Colombia is a diverse and captivating country located in South America. It has beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant cities, and stunning mountains. The prices in Colombia are affordable so you can travel cheap.
Main Things to See
Bogotá, the capital city, is surrounded by the Andes mountains. It’s a bustling metropolis where you can experience the local culture, enjoy street food, and visit the Gold Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
One of the main attractions is Cartagena, a historic coastal city with colorful buildings and cobbled streets. Visitors can explore the old town, visit the fortress, and relax on the nearby beaches. For nature enthusiasts, the Amazon rainforest in Colombia offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure. You can take guided tours to spot exotic wildlife, hike through the dense jungle, and even interact with indigenous communities.
Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” is another must-see destination. It’s famous for its transformation from a dangerous city to a vibrant and innovative hub. Take a ride on the Medellín Metrocable for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Colombia is home to unique national parks that stand out from others. Tayrona National Natural Park boasts white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. What sets it apart is the close juxtaposition of the jungle and the sea – you can hike through the rainforest and then relax on the beach all in one day.
Cocora Valley is another hidden gem. It’s a surreal landscape with towering wax palm trees, some reaching heights of up to 200 feet. You can go hiking or horseback riding through this stunning valley.
Activities
One activity you shouldn’t miss is salsa dancing in Cali, the salsa capital of the world. Join locals at a salsa club and groove to the infectious beats. Coffee lovers will find paradise in the Coffee Triangle. You can tour coffee plantations, learn about the coffee-making process, and, of course, savor some of the world’s finest coffee. For the more adventurous, trekking to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) is an unforgettable experience. It’s a challenging hike through the jungle, leading to ancient ruins that predate Machu Picchu.
Unique to Colombia is the diversity of its landscapes – from the Caribbean coast to the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. This variety is reflected in its national parks, each offering a distinct ecosystem and experience. The juxtaposition of tropical beaches with dense forests in Tayrona National Natural Park and the surreal wax palm forest in Cocora Valley showcase the country’s natural wonders.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Colombia is a country of contrasts and surprises. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm people, it’s a destination that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, or trekking through ancient jungles, Colombia promises an adventure like no other. The prices in Colombia are affordable so you can travel cheap.
Seasons info
From December to February, dry and pleasant conditions prevail, ideal for coastal getaways in places like Cartagena and Santa Marta, as well as city exploration in Bogotá and Medellín. March to May brings a transition with occasional rain, fewer crowds, and the chance to explore diverse regions. June to August marks another high season, particularly suitable for Amazon rainforest adventures and discovering Andean cities. During September to October, the low tourist season continues, offering a quieter experience and sporadic rain. November acts as a transition month with occasional rain.
You can find weather by month in a table in Data tables.
Prices info
Prices in Colombia often present a favorable contrast to those found in Western countries. Accommodation, dining, and transportation expenses tend to be more budget-friendly in Colombia, allowing travelers to enjoy quality experiences without breaking the bank.
Customs, laws, safety
Customs and laws in Colombia can be different than in EU and US so do your research before your stay.
Safety in Colombia has improved significantly over the past decade, transforming into a more traveler-friendly destination. Major cities and tourist areas like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cartagena have experienced substantial advancements in security, offering well-patrolled neighborhoods and safe public transportation systems.
We have marked Colombia as difficult destination not for beginners. The main reason is that some areas in Colombia are not safe. For example, UK publishes a map to which areas you should not go. If you are a beginner traveler you could go to the main cities and tourist areas, use public transportation and registered accommodation. Do not rent a car and drive, do not go out at night, and only use registered transportation and accommodation services.
More experienced travelers will know what kind of research to do. If you want to visit some rural areas, drive a car, visit Amazon rainforest,… you need to do proper research to stay safe.
– Colombia is relatively LGBTQIA+ friendly.
Food and water safety
It’s advisable to drink bottled or purified water to avoid potential stomach discomfort. When dining, choose reputable restaurants and eateries, and opt for freshly cooked meals. Street food can be enticing, but be cautious and ensure the vendor follows proper hygiene practices. Washing fruits and vegetables with purified water before consumption is also recommended.
Digital nomads
Major cities like Medellín, Bogotá, and Cartagena have become digital nomad hubs, providing reliable high-speed internet, co-working spaces, and a welcoming community. But especially if you are from the US, Colombia is not the safest country to live in.
Prices in Colombia are affordable.
Other info
– Safety – US Level 3: Reconsider Travel
– UK, EU and US citizens do not need visa to visit Colombia
– Hepatitis A, Tetanus vaccinations are recommended (consult with your doctor)
– Read our Cheap travel tips
– You can find weather by month, difficulty level, and LGBT friendliness in our Data tables.
– You can join Couchsurfing for free accommodation
– Follow us on social media for every day suggestions:
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