Colombia Too Has Its Own Machu Picchu

In southwestern Antioquia, among mountains covered with coffee plantations and winding roads that lead to natural viewpoints, lies Betania, a small town that in recent months has gained national attention thanks to a nickname that sparks curiosity: the “Machu Picchu of Colombia.”

Although it is not an Inca citadel or an archaeological site, the place has become famous for its architecture, which many consider similar to that of the Peruvian sanctuary, and for a viral phenomenon that turned it into a trend on social media.

The comparison was born on platforms such as TikTok, where travelers and content creators shared images of a natural viewpoint overlooking the Farallones del Citara. The layout of certain structures, stone paths, and natural terraces led many to point out visual similarities with Machu Picchu.

Since then, Betania has begun to appear on the list of emerging destinations for those seeking new rural and nature tourism experiences in Colombia.

The ‘Machu Picchu of Colombia,’ between virality and reality

For visitors, the experience begins with the visual impact. From the viewpoint popularly known as the Colombian Machu Picchu, one can see mist-covered mountains, green valleys, and a coffee-growing landscape that looks straight out of a postcard.

Although there are no ancient ruins, many highlight that the site’s architecture — with stone paths, stepped viewpoints, and structures integrated into the surroundings — evokes the Andean aesthetic that made the Peruvian sanctuary world-famous.

However, local authorities and cultural heritage experts are clear: Betania has no historical connection to the Inca civilization and does not have archaeological remains. The nickname is symbolic and responds more to a spontaneous tourism promotion strategy than to a proven historical fact.

Even so, the phenomenon has had a positive impact on the local economy, attracting visitors interested in alternative destinations that are less crowded and rich in cultural identity.

Located about three hours from Medellin, Betania has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants and a mild climate ranging between 21 and 22 degrees Celsius, ideal for hiking, rural tours, and outdoor activities. Its viral nickname has served as a gateway for many to discover a town that, beyond comparisons, has a unique richness well worth exploring.

@pasajerosdelavida_col BETANIA ANTIOQUIA… Un poco de lo que fue nuestra experiencia en el Machu picchu antioqueño, el cual es un mirador a los farallones de citará. Luego bajamos al rio pedral para refrescarnos y descansar. #dronevideo #pasajerosdelavida #viajes #viajesconamigos #betania #antioquia #antioquiaesmagica💚🤍 ♬ FEEL THE GROOVE – Queens Road, Fabian Graetz

Tourist attractions in Betania

In addition to being known as the “Machu Picchu of Colombia,” Betania also goes by other titles that reflect its identity. It is called the “Pearl of Citara” because of its privileged location facing this mountain range, and the “Colombian capital of guasca music,” a traditional genre that plays an essential role in its cultural life.

@mauricioarcila.oficial La música de mi tierra, pura guasca #musicapopular #estadosparawhatsapp #fpy #colombia ♬ sonido original – Mauricio Arcila

One of its greatest attractions is its coffee culture. Surrounded by productive farms, Betania offers tourist tours where visitors can learn about the coffee-making process, from harvest to cup, and taste local varieties that reflect the quality of Antioquia’s coffee. These experiences have turned Betania into a point of interest for those seeking authentic rural tourism.

Nature also plays a central role. The Farallones del Citara Protective Forest Reserve is an ideal space for birdwatching, ecological hikes, and direct contact with Andean biodiversity. Added to this are rivers and natural pools that invite visitors to enjoy hiking and relaxation in peaceful environments, far from the noise of big cities.

On the cultural front, guasca music sets Betania apart on the country’s artistic map. Festivals, musical gatherings, and local performances keep this tradition alive, attracting visitors interested in the region’s unique sound identity.

@dannyfotoviajero recorrido por #betania su parque, su mirador y charco la peña. #colombia🇨🇴 #betaniaantioquia #viajesporelmundo #travel ♬ Safe and Sound – Denis First