ColombiaDiscover Colombia
Discover the vibrant heart of South America in Colombia, a country bursting with color, rhythm, and spectacular diversity. Explore emerald landscapes, coffee plantations, ancient archaeological ruins, and two stunning coastlines—Caribbean and Pacific. From the bustling, historical streets of Cartagena to the towering peaks of the Andes, Colombia offers an immersive and unforgettable journey into a culture renowned for its warmth and resilience.
The heart of Colombia beats with the unparalleled warmth and infectious passion of its people. Known for their genuine smiles, vibrant energy, and unwavering optimism, Colombians welcome visitors with open arms and a deeply ingrained sense of hospitality that makes every traveler feel like family. Their culture is a rich tapestry of resilience, expressed through the spirited rhythms of cumbia and salsa, and a profound national pride rooted in history and spectacular natural beauty. It is the generous spirit and joyful nature of the Colombian people that truly define this vibrant nation.
Embark on an epic adventure across Colombia, a country where every turn unveils a new wonder. The journey begins with the thrilling contrasts of the Andes Mountains, where you can trek through high-altitude páramos and cloud forests, or climb the challenging peaks of El Cocuy National Natural Park. Dive into the deep history and vibrant street art of Medellín, the "City of Eternal Spring," before heading to the stunning Caribbean coast. Here, the fortified city of Cartagena offers a romantic, historical maze of cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, while the Rosario Islands provide world-class snorkeling and pristine beaches. For nature enthusiasts, the Amazon rainforest fringe offers unparalleled biodiversity, and the Coffee Cultural Landscape invites exploration of lush emerald plantations and the opportunity to learn about the world's finest brew. Don't miss the chance to explore the ancient ruins of the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), a multi-day jungle trek that culminates in a spectacular view of one of South America's most mysterious archaeological sites, solidifying Colombia as a destination rich in adventure, culture, and natural marvels.
Colombia
Colombia quick facts
- World's Leading Coffee Producer: Though not the largest overall producer, Colombia is globally renowned for its high-quality Arabica coffee.
- Land of Eternal Spring: Medellín is often called the 'City of Eternal Spring' due to its mild, pleasant year-round climate.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Colombia is considered the second most biodiverse country in the world, after Brazil.
- Emerald Capital: It produces some of the world's finest emeralds, accounting for a significant portion of the global supply.
- Home of Gabriel García Márquez: The Nobel Prize-winning author, known for 'One Hundred Years of Solitude,' was Colombian.
- The Lost City (Ciudad Perdida): Predates Machu Picchu by centuries and requires a challenging multi-day trek to reach.
- Two Ocean Coasts: It is the only country in South America with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
- Vibrant Bird Life: Colombia holds the world record for the greatest number of bird species, with nearly 2,000 recorded.
- The Caño Cristales River: Known as the 'River of Five Colors' or 'Liquid Rainbow' due to its vibrant aquatic plants.
- Cultural Hub of Cumbia: Cumbia, a popular folk dance and musical genre, originated on Colombia's Caribbean coast.
- Highest Capital City: Bogotá is one of the highest capital cities in the world, sitting at over 8,660 feet (2,640 meters) above sea level.
- Nation of Salsa: The city of Cali is globally recognized as the Salsa Capital of the World.
Faq’s
Is Colombia safe for tourists?
Yes, major cities and tourist areas have improved significantly, but visitors should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially in less-traveled areas.
What is the best time to visit Colombia?
Colombia is a year-round destination due to its proximity to the equator, but the driest seasons are generally December to March and July to August.
What currency is used in Colombia?
The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP).
Is tap water safe to drink?
In major cities like Bogotá and Medellín, the tap water is generally safe to drink, but it is best to drink bottled water in smaller towns and rural areas.
What are the must-see destinations in Colombia?
Key destinations include the walled city of Cartagena, Medellín (City of Eternal Spring), the Coffee Cultural Landscape (Eje Cafetero), and the trekking destination of Tayrona National Natural Park.
What is the capital of Colombia?
The capital city is Bogotá.
Is Colombia only known for coffee?
No, while famous for its high-quality coffee, Colombia is also known for its incredible biodiversity, emeralds, culture (salsa and cumbia), and historical sites like the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida).
Do I need a visa to enter Colombia?
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and most European nations, do not need a visa for short tourist stays (usually up to 90 or 180 days).
Follow us @ExploreTan
