The Amazon forests, Andes Mountains and cool sandy beaches make Colombia a great treasure for all travelers as will be illustrated below in the list of the best places to visit in Colombia before you die. Its rich heritage represents the culture of the indigenous people and also the Spanish people who started setting in this location in the 15th century.
Even though it is mostly safe to visit Colombia now, a few decades ago this is was not such a safe destination. Nevertheless, the government has worked hard to increase security and change that bad image. Nowadays, you can come to Colombia and enjoy the great attractions without worrying about your safety.
Jess Kraft/Shutterstock.com
Led by the very well preserved ancient city of Cartagena, Colombia provides an immense treasure trove filled with cinematic villages and town that usually feel like they are in another century. The towns and the people are very warm and this enhances the entire traveling experience for any tourist.
The equatorial position of this country affords it an exceptional diversity of nature and landscapes that can be matched by only a couple of countries. You can start your holiday in the sun-filled Caribbean sands, and then move higher in altitude to check out Zona Cafetera, where Colombia gets its coffee. Continue climbing and you will reach Bogota, which is the nation’s vibrant capital. You can go even further up and check out the high altitude vegetation and lakes, as well as the snowcapped peaks of the Andes.
Colombia’s diverse terrain is optimal ground for fans of outdoor adventures. You can dive, climb, trek and soar in San Gil. This region holds some of the most superb trekking sites, and is also dramatically diverse. You will have such an amazing time experiencing the wonders of nature that you will think you are in the safest countries to in the world to live in peace. Learn more about the best places to visit in Colombia before you die by reading on below.
8. Popayan
This is among the most stunning colonial cities in Colombia. It is also known as the White City or Ciudad Blanca since all its buildings have a chalk-white finish. The town was formed in 1537 and its appealing climate attracted rich Spaniards who built schools, churches, mansions and monasteries. Today, the city is renowned for its nightlife and the Maundy Thursday parade. Popayan’s charm and tranquillity make it an excellent place to unwind and relax.
Jess Kraft/Shutterstock.com
7. Medellin
All through the 80s and 90s, Medellin was regarded as a very dangerous city as it was the location of the notorious cocaine cartel. However, when Pablo Escobar, a notorious drug lord, was successfully snuffed out, the town started to rebuild from its troubled history. Nowadays, visitors coming to this location find a welcoming, contemporary city with a great climate. You can actually visit any time of the year and see the gorgeous flowers that make this city very colorful.
6. San Agustin
This is a cool small town that is bordered by breathtaking landscapes and also the ruins of an ancient civilization. San Agustin has over 500 statues, monoliths, sarcophagi and petroglyphs. The rock carvings at this location were created from 100 AD to 1200 AD. The carvings include images of people, sneering monsters, jaguars, birds and snakes.
Jess Kraft/Shutterstock.com
5. Zona Cafetera
People who love java will certainly enjoy visiting the Zona Cafetera where nearly half of the coffee crop in Colombia is grown on the Andes. Travelers get to learn about coffee and also enjoy themselves at the nearby amusement park. Another key attraction is a gold museum that features pre-Colombian artifacts.
Toniflap/Shutterstock.com
4. San Gil
Named as the tourism capital of Colombia in 2004, San Gil mainly honors outdoor activities like mountain biking, kayaking and rafting among other activities. You can also visit an ancient cathedral that was constructed in 1791, called Parque La Libertad. There is a covered marketplace where visitors can enjoy a wide range of Colombian foods.
3. Villa de Leyva
The Plaza Mayor in Villa de Leyva is among the largest town squares ever built. In the past, people used to be executed in this large square that is now used for a meeting place for festivals and celebrations. Its architecture represents Moorish and Spanish influences. The museums here honor the people who fought during the revolution to gain independence.
Jess Kraft/Shutterstock.com
2. Bogota
Bogota has plenty of attractions that will entice visitors, such as gold museum, cultural events, a planetarium and a vibrant nightlife. The town’s historic district is located in La Candelaria, which is filled with churches, museums and cafes.
And, the best place to visit in Colombia before you die is: Cartagena
This town was sought after by several countries and thus is among the most securely fortified towns. These fortifications are still visible today and offer a great insight about the early life in this town. Travelers should spend some time wandering through the intriguing old town, which has colonial architecture and has several museums palaces and churches.
So, go ahead and have fun in the best places to visit in Colombia before you die.
