Colombia’s growing popularity as a tourist destination is evident. As one of the top spots on the “Gringo Trail” in South America, it’s becoming a must-visit for travelers worldwide. If you’re wondering why, here are the top 9 reasons you should consider visiting Colombia.
First off, tropical beaches might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they should be. Spend a weekend in Cartagena, a colonial town on the northern coast, featuring a beautiful Caribbean shoreline. If you love white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this is your spot. You can also explore Tayrona National Park, where you can hike and even camp on beaches right next to the jungle.
If you’re looking for something more secluded, Colombia owns three Caribbean islands close to Nicaragua. San Andres, Providencia, and Santa Catalina offer white sands, tiny islands, and swaying palms, making them a paradise for sun worshippers.
For adventure enthusiasts, Colombia has plenty to offer. Try paragliding over Medellin for breathtaking city views, or go scuba diving in Cartagena’s Corals National Park and the unique Blue Wall in San Andres. There’s bungee jumping, off-roading, white water rafting, and more, all at a fraction of the cost compared to the US.
Colombia is also incredibly affordable. Roundtrip flights between major cities start at about $35 USD, beers cost around $1-2 USD, and a nice meal with drinks will only set you back about $10-15 USD per person. Hostels can be as cheap as $10 USD a night, and taxi fares are very low, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers.
If nightlife is your thing, Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena won’t disappoint. Start with a meal at a modern restaurant, grab drinks at a craft brewery or high-end cocktail bar, and dance the night away in clubs that stay open until sunrise.
Surprisingly, more Americans aren’t visiting Colombia, despite its proximity to the US. Flights from Chicago to Bogota take only eight hours, allowing you more time to enjoy your vacation. Plus, Colombia is in the same time zone as the US, making it ideal for remote workers and digital nomads.
For nature lovers, Colombia is a haven. You can take the four-day Lost City Trek or explore the Amazon Jungle by flying to Leticia. Or, stay closer to cities and visit parks like Simon Bolivar in Bogota or Parque Arvi in Medellin, where you can enjoy easy hikes.
Colombia’s coffee culture is another draw. As the third-largest coffee exporter, its Andean foothills are filled with lush coffee plantations. Spend a week in Salento, touring coffee farms and sampling their best brews. Don’t miss local favorites like limonada de coco and bandeja paisa.
Despite its history with figures like Pablo Escobar, Colombia is much safer now and offers intriguing historical tours. You can visit the ruins of Escobar’s home, his grave, and his childhood neighborhood in Medellin. Plus, you can learn about the country’s pride in its metro system and its recent progress in tourism.
Colombian culture is unique and vibrant. Explore colorful towns like Guatape and Jardin to experience traditional lifestyles, including cowboys riding through streets and daily mass at local basilicas.
No matter what your interests are—beach vacations, adventure sports, food, and culture—Colombia has something for everyone. Add it to your bucket list and experience this amazing destination for yourself!