Best Places to Visit in Colombia According to Colombians

With its varied landscapes and climate zones, Colombia is definitely one of the most diverse travel destinations in the world. However, while you might have heard recommendations from official tourism agencies or international travelers, have you ever wondered what Colombians themselves believe are the best places to visit in Colombia?

If you don’t know any Colombians personally, don’t worry: ColombiaOne has solved this issue for you. After surveying Colombians across the country, from the chilly mountains of Antioquia to the warm coastal city of Barranquilla, we have compiled a list of must-visit locations in Colombia as recommended by the locals. With this guide, we promise you an authentic exploration of Colombia’s cultural and natural heritage.

Here are the best places to visit in Colombia according to Colombians!

Welcome to the beautiful Antioquia

It is no coincidence that Medellin and the Antioquia Department rank as favored destinations among both international and national tourist destinations. Here are the best places recommended by Colombians:

Medellin

Often referred to as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’, and surrounded by mountains, Medellin is definitely a place you must stop by when travelling to Colombia. Most people born and raised in Medellin will tell you the same, they can’t imagine living outside their beloved city! Get ready to be enveloped by the warm hospitality of its people and its unmatched atmosphere. Whether you decide to dive into its vibrant nightlife, explore its cafes and restaurants, or visit its incredible viewpoints, you’re sure to be captivated.

Guatape and the Piedra del Penol

While you are in Medellin, please take a day to visit the small village of Guatape. Alejandro, a barber in Medellin’s La Candelaria neighborhood, recalls the time, not so long ago, when Guatape was still a small village with almost no visitors. Now, it is among the most popular places to visit. And it is not surprising at all, since Guatape is astonishing. First, the sight of the 220-meter (722 feet) tall monolith known as Piedra del Penol will take your breath away. After climbng its 702 steps, you are rewarded with a second marvel: the view of the magnificent artificial lake, dotted with tiny islands. This mix of natural and man-made landscape is definitely a must-see!

Santa Fe de Antioquia

The charm of Colombia, particularly the Antioquia region, lies in its picturesque small villages, the Pueblos. Santa Fe de Antioquia stands out as a must-visit one. Established in 1541, this village has preserved its colonial architecture, including seven magnificent churches. For those looking to retreat from the big cities while still enjoying the conveniences of an urbanized settling, Santa Fe de Antioquia offers the perfect balance between beauty and tranquility.

Jardin

When talking about charming villages, it is impossible not to mention Jardin. Upon arriving in Medellin, ask any taxi driver about the must-visit places outside the city, and Jardin will undoubtedly be among their top recommendations. Jardin, ‘Garden’ in English, is located in a coffee-producing region and is celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes and its characteristic colorful and flower-bedecked houses.

Salto del Angel, Envigado

One of the most remarkable aspects of Medellin and its vicinity is the quick transition from urbanized area to untouched natural environment. El Salto Del Angel is unspoiled nature at it’s best. Located in the ecotouristic park El Salado, half an hour south of the Medellin, these falls serve as an ideal retreat for those looking to rest from the energetic 24-hour-a-day life of the city.

The warm Caribbean coast

The Caribbean coast is often summarized by the triple S: sun, sea and sand. However, this splendid region has much more to offer than just these attributes. Let’s discover why!

Cartagena de Indias

Referred to by many nicknames, ‘The Heroic’, ‘The Fantastic’ and ‘The Romantic Capital of America’, Cartagena de Indias does not lack descriptions to describe its essence. Once the epicenter of the Spanish Empire in the Caribbean, Cartagena de Indias remain to this day one of the most wonderful cities in Colombia. Its well-preserved historical center, adorned with colorful houses and flowers, its 16^th century castle, its exceptional gastronomy and its inhabitants’ pride and culture make Cartagena an unmissable destination.

Santa Marta

Uniting history, culture, nature and entertainment, Santa Marta is definitely unmissable. Founded in 1525, Santa Marta is the oldest standing city in Colombia and boasts an important historical heritage. Its small size and location, between the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, contribute to its charm. Nearby, you will find Taganga, a great spot for sunsets and diving.

Tayrona National Park

Located less than an hour from Santa Marta, the Tayrona National Park is a prime destination for ecotourism. For Natalia, born and raised in Barranquilla, it is definitely one of the best places in the world. Despite covering only 150 km², this nature reserve will captivate nature enthusiasts with its diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense rainforests to incredible beaches like Cabo San Juan and Playa de Cristal. Beyond these natural marvels, Tayrona Park is a sanctuary for local indigenous communities including the Kankuamo and the Aruako. For those interested in discovering these ancient cultures, the park hosts an indigenous village open to visitors, offering the opportunity to learn about their traditions.

La Guajira Department

The northernmost department of Colombia offers a truly unique experience. As the homeland of the Wayuu indigenous people, La Guajira is distinguished by its arid, desert landscape. Venturing west from Tayrona National Park, you will find Palomino, a wonderful virgin beach definitely worth visiting. In Riohacha, the region’s capital, you can rent a car and hire a local guide who can lead you into the heart of the Guajira desert. There, an amazing landscape of rocks and sand awaits you along the Caribbean Sea, as blue as you can imagine. Your journey is also an opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the Wayuu people, who resisted the Spanish influence.

Valledupar

If you seek an unforgettable immersion into Colombian musical culture, Valledupar is the destination you must visit. Known as the international capital of Vallenato, one of Colombia’s national music genres, Valledupar is renowned for its people’s love of music. Among the attractions, the statues of Vallenato legend Diomedes Diaz and the Guatapuri River Siren are must-sees. According to legend, a young girl once submerged herself in the river and was transformed into a siren. Since then, she sings to attract the curious and take them with her.

More amazing places to visit in Colombia

Colombia’s size and unique position in South America has blessed it with a large variety of natural treasures. Let’s embark on a tour of the Pacific coast, the Amazons and the Andes to discover some of these wonders.

Gorgona Island

The Pacific coast is undoubtedly Colombia’s most underrated region in terms of tourism in Colombia. However, with its nearly untouched jungles and beaches, it is a destination well worth exploring.

Juan David, a businessman from Medellin, recommends the Gorgona Island Natural Park as one such unforgettable place. A true paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts, it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1984. Despite its modest size, the island is home to hundreds of species of birds, insects and marine fauna. Among the activities available, hiking and whale watching stand out as the most iconic experiences.

Colombian Coffee Axis

The Colombian Coffee Axis, also known as the Coffee Triangle, is a must-see destination. Located in the heart of the country, at the intersection of four Andean departments, it will immerse you in the rich Colombian coffee culture. The breathtaking landscapes combine natural beauty and human effort. Beyond the coffee plantations, you can discover the amazing Cocora Valley with its gigantic wax palms that can reach up to 61 meters (200 feet). For those seeking additional entertainment, the Coffee Park located in the Quindio Department offers a variety of attractions, including rollercoasters, museums and performances, all centered around the theme of coffee.

Cano Cristales

Dubbed the ‘Liquid Rainbow’ or the ‘River of Five Colors’, Cano Cristales is a natural marvel that will make you forget about the usual green and blue water. With its unique colours fluctuating between purple, yellow and brown hues, Cano Cristales offers a sight to be experienced once in a lifetime. To witness its full spectrum of colors, it is best to visit during September and October.

Thermal Springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal

Nature truly is the best therapist, and Santa Rosa de Cabal will prove it to you. After a hike through the mountains, the waterfalls of Santa Rosa de Cabal appear, in magical surroundings. Recognized as Colombia’s official relaxation spot, it offers the best thermal waters in the country. Nearby, you will find numerous hotels and spas providing exceptional services and treatments, enhancing your experience.

Villa de Leyva

UNESCO World Heritage site Villa de Leyva is a village full of surprises. Andres, born and raised in the Caribbean village of Cerete, describes it as possibly the best place to visit in Colombia. At first glance, this is a wonderful colonial town, with well-preserved cobblestone streets and an amazing historical center. However, beneath its streets lies a hidden treasure: a soil rich in Cretaceous-period fossils. While many fossils can be seen on the streets and walls, the most remarkable are housed in the city’s museums. Among these, an almost complete kronosaurus fossil stands out as the most impressive exhibit.