8 Reasons to Visit Colombia

In the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta you’ll encounter all kinds of animals, from jaguars to otters. The tropical grasslands of Los Llanos are a haven for water birds, big cats and many other mammals. No matter which corner of the country you’re in, you’ll find magnificent wilderness areas where the world’s natural wonders are on full display.

Some of Colombia’s best cuisine can be found in the capital of Bogotá. Here you can dine at world-class restaurants or hole-in-the-wall classics, shop for fresh produce at local markets or even take a cooking class at a local house. Medellín is also an ideal destination for foodies.

There’s also plenty of art to appreciate outside of the urban centres. The charming town of Barichara is practically a work of art in itself. It’s also full of local artisans who will welcome you into their studios to show you their crafts, such as traditional papermaking.

Speaking of hidden getaways, there’s a true tropical paradise to be found off the coast of Cartagena: the Rosario Islands. This archipelago is part of a national park that’s dedicated to preserving its brilliant coral reefs and crystalline waters. Isla Barú is an especially great place to stay if you’re looking for secluded luxury.

You can’t talk about Colombian festivals without mentioning the Carnaval de Barranquilla, one of the world’s biggest carnival celebrations. If you want to experience this spectacular event for yourself, the best time to visit Colombia is in February or March.

Los Llanos is also full of untouched nature to navigate, including the rushing rivers and waterfalls of the Serranía de la Macarena national park. For the boldest explorers, Colombia’s Pacific Coast is a truly isolated and authentic destination.

Beyond Cartagena, you can get to know the traditional folk music of Los Llanos, visit Indigenous communities in the Amazon or tour Palenque to learn about Afro-Colombian history. Literature lovers can also visit some of the sites that inspired Gabriel García Márquez.

Here sustainability isn’t just an idea – it’s an integral part of public policy and tourism. You can experience the effects of this commitment firsthand at environmentally conscious hotels like Las Islas, which supports marine habitat conservation and the development of local communities.