The Best Experiences in Colombia

There is an astonishing array of things to do and see in Colombia. This South American country is packed with diverse destinations that offer an equally varied selection of activities, whether you’re in the mood to explore the streets of bustling cities or venture deep into the wilderness for exciting outdoor adventures. There are also plenty of cultural and historical experiences to enjoy, from contemporary art tours to ancient archaeological sites.

If you’re wondering what to do in Colombia, here are a few of our travel designers’ top picks.

Cradled in a valley amid the Andes, Medellín is Colombia’s second-largest city: a thriving metropolis where history and modern culture converge. Embark on a tour of the city alongside a local guide who will introduce you to artists and activists in Comuna 13, and visit museums and memorials that tell the story of the city and its recent transformation.

Need to know: Art lovers should head to Plaza Botero, where you’ll find a collection of works by the world-renowned local sculptor Fernando Botero and the Museum of Antioquia.

Bogotá isn’t just the country’s official capital; it’s also the culinary capital, making it the perfect place to get acquainted with traditional Colombian food. Learning the secrets of local specialties is one of our favourite things to do in Colombia, whether you opt for a dinner hosted by a local family or a hands-on cooking class with an expert chef.

Need to know: Bogotá also has a phenomenal restaurant scene, ranging from the legendary Elcielo to street food stalls at Paloquemao Market and authentic eateries in La Candelaria.

Tayrona National Park is one of the top Colombian tourist attractions, boasting idyllic beaches, tropical rainforests and endless wildlife. We suggest exploring it on a private boat trip that will take you to secluded bays and secret coves where you won’t see another soul. Relax on the sand or grab a snorkel to seek out colourful fish and sea turtles.

Need to know: You can also trek through Tayrona for the chance to spot cotton-top tamarins, howler monkeys, iguanas, macaws and many other animals.

Known for its cloud-covered peaks and verdant slopes, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is an ideal destination for hiking. There are trails here for all experience levels, from gentle walking paths through the forest to longer treks that will lead you to tumbling waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.

Need to know: Stay at Casa Oropéndola: a cosy lodge perched high in the mountains where you can truly immerse yourself in nature and switch off for a few days.

Two of Colombia’s most beloved products are coffee and chocolate, and you can sample both in the aptly named coffee triangle. Take a guided tour of a coffee plantation to learn how the beans are grown, harvested, roasted and brewed, or head to a cacao plantation to make your own bean-to-cup hot chocolate by hand.

Need to know: Make sure to visit the Cocora Valley to see its towering Quindío wax palms, too. We can arrange day trips including hikes and private picnics.

The lively coastal city of Cartagena is infused with the rhythms of cumbia and champeta. We can organise private dance lessons and nights out on the town with locals who will show you the city’s best bars. You’ll find live music around every corner and endless opportunities to join in the fun (and practice your technique). 

Need to know: We also suggest setting aside a day for island hopping in the gorgeous Islas del Rosario, just an hour from Cartagena by boat.

Set in southwestern Colombia, San Agustín is a small town surrounded by spectacular landscapes and historical sites. The San Agustín Archaeological Park is famous for its pre-Columbian stone monuments and tombs, while nearby Isnos boasts statues that still bear remnants of the colourful paint that once adorned them.

Need to know: San Agustín is also bursting with natural wonders, including the Salto de Bordones – one the country’s tallest waterfalls at a staggering 400 metres (1,312 feet). 

Barichara is a picturesque highland town full of cultural attractions, from its grandiose stone cathedral to quiet cobblestone streets and artisanal workshops. It’s also located within easy reach of some of Colombia’s best outdoor adventures, from whitewater rafting on the Fonce River to paragliding across the Chicamocha Canyon.

Need to know: The best time to visit Barichara is during the dry season from December to March, although there’s often relatively low rainfall between June and August as well.