23 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Colombia

Colombia beckons travelers with its vibrant tapestry of landscapes, from the rolling waves of the Caribbean Sea to the serene Pacific coasts. This nation, which celebrates its rank among the world’s megadiverse countries, offers a symphony of experiences that urge the wanderlust spirit to traverse its expanse.

Stand on the edge of breezy coastal shores or ascend into the heart of mountain jungles, savor the rich aromas of coffee plantations, and lose yourself in the rhythm of cities that pulse with life until dawn. On this journey, you are set to explore the essence of Colombia’s multifaceted charm.

As you traverse the streets of towns like Cartagena and Popayan, the echoes of colonial history reverberate through their superbly preserved centers. In contrast, Cali’s thumping salsa beats and Barranquilla’s electric carnival spirit showcase the country’s lively cultural fabric.

Bogota and Medellin offer a blend of gastronomic delights, panoramic marvels, and an array of attractions that reflect a nation reborn. Exploring Colombia isn’t just an excursion; it’s a discovery of parks, historical landmarks, and cultures, both ancient and evolving. With security improved, the narrative of the land is yours to unfold.

23. Colonial Churches of Popayan

The city of Popayán, cradled by the mountain ranges of southwest Colombia, boasts a legacy of religious architecture. Its moniker, ‘white city,’ is aptly earned from the numerous pristine edifices that outline its skyline.

• Historic Edifices: Traverse the cobblestone streets to discover the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, offering insights into Colombia’s devotional heritage.
• Architectural Marvels: Explore the Iglesia de San Francisco, a testament to intricate colonial design.
• Church of La Ermita: Built in 1546, this structure is a window to the past with its minimalist altar and cherished religious artwork.
• Easter Celebrations: Witness the town come alive during Semana Santa as processions form, particularly around Iglesia Santo Domingo, adding a profound spiritual ambiance to the surroundings.

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Popayán’s churches, where each corner tells a story of faith and history. Your journey through these sacred spaces will reveal the layers of a city that continues to serve as Colombia’s spiritual heart.

22. Whitewater Rafting in San Gil

In the pulsing heart of Colombia’s adventure landscape, whitewater rafting beckons along three distinct rivers near San Gil. Here’s a brief overview:

• Rio Fonce: A gentler flow welcoming novices, set against a picturesque backdrop. Ideal for those dipping their paddles into whitewater rafting for the first time.
• Rio Chicamocha & Rio Suarez: Offer challenging torrents for seasoned enthusiasts. Expect to confront exhilarating rapids as you navigate the untamed waters.

Eager thrill-seekers and serene nature lovers both find their call to adventure here. With professional guides leading the way, the riverside reveals a tapestry of natural wonders. You’ll be flanked by rugged canyons and lush forests, all while mastering the art of river navigation.

Experience the raw beauty of Santander as you raft through its dramatic landscapes and forge unforgettable memories on the roaring rivers of San Gil.

21. Guatape Town

Nestled beside a tranquil lake, Guatape is a compact gem two hours east of Medellin. This well-appointed destination teems with life, expressed through the kaleidoscope of murals adorning the town’s facade.

Each building tells a tale with zocalos – these hand-painted depictions range from historical narratives to pastoral life scenes.

• Vibrant Vistas: Traverse the vivid streets, an open canvas of artistic storytelling.
• Zocalo Splendor: Discover hundreds of unique murals encapsulating local lore.
• Artisans’ Craft: Browse through markets filled with handcrafted mementos.
• Culinary Retreats: Relish local cuisine in cozy cafés around the town center.

Once you’ve absorbed the local culture, venture to La Piedra del Penol for a modest climb—740 steps, to be precise. The summit rewards you with panoramic views of the shimmering waters and the picturesque town below.

Whether it’s a leisurely boat ride across the lake or a scenic ascent, Guatape’s allure lies in its visual feast and the serene rhythm of lakeside leisure.

20. Valle de Cocora

Tucked away within the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, Valle de Cocora captivates with its towering wax palms piercing the heavens—a spectacle unique to this Andean valley. Stepping into this verdant realm, you’ll marvel at the scale of these giants and the richness of the ecosystem they anchor.

Behold, Colombia’s national tree stretches skyward, sometimes over 200 feet, in a landscape that seems pulled from a storybook.

As you traverse this stunning backdrop, you find yourself surrounded by:

• Lush Greenery: The valley is cloaked in vibrant foliage.
• Hiking Trails: Meandering paths offering both solitude and adventure.
• Local Cuisine: Savoring fresh trout, a culinary delight of the region.
• Hummingbird Sanctuary: The Acaime Natural Reserve is a haven for these energetic birds.

Positioned at a crossroads near Salento, balancing accessibility with an air of seclusion, Valle de Cocora is a testament to nature’s grandeur and Colombia’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.

Embark on a hike or engage a guide to explore deeper—each step promises a deeper connection with nature’s serene beauty amidst this Andean sanctuary’s mist-kissed highs and lows.

19. Johnny Cay

Rediscover tranquility on Johnny Cay’s sun-kissed shores. A short boat journey from San Andres brings you to this coral gemstone nestling in the Caribbean’s sparkling embrace. Known locally as Cayo Sucre, the allure of Johnny Cay lies in its untouched natural beauty, now safeguarded within a regional park.

Amidst towering coconut palm groves, hundreds of iguanas bask in the warmth while vibrant reefs brim with aquatic life just offshore. Although the rough waves and hidden rocks make swimming and snorkeling a cautious pursuit, the island’s white sands provide the perfect canvas for sun-worshippers.

• Access: Reachable by a boat from San Andres
• Activities: Sunbathing, observing iguanas
• Sea Conditions: Caution is advised for swimming/snorkeling due to waves and rocks
• Amenities: Dining options available, with seafood and cocktails
• Entertainment: Reggae music often heard in restaurants

Relax with a cocktail, savoring seafood to the lilting rhythms of reggae as you let Johnny Cay’s laid-back vibe wash over you.

18. Tour a Coffee Plantation

Embark on a journey through Colombia’s lush Coffee Triangle, where verdant farms unfold across the rolling hills. Your excursion into the heartland of the world’s coffee capital begins within the rustic embrace of the Paisa region.

Starting from the hub cities of Manizales, Pereira, or Armenia, venture into the scenic countryside dotted with estates and family-owned farms.

As you meander through these fertile grounds, you’ll immerse yourself in the lifecycle of the renowned Arabica beans. Witness the painstaking care in harvesting as coffee connoisseurs walk you through the bean-to-brew process.

Each plantation offers its unique brand of storytelling, sharing not just techniques but tales of traditions steeped in every cup.

Here’s what to expect:

• Educational Tours: Learn how Colombia’s prized beans journey from rich soil to your cup.
• Tasting Sessions: Savor the robust flavors where they’re cultivated.
• Interactive Experiences: Discover coffee’s history and its cultural significance.

For a dash of adrenaline with your caffeine, consider visiting the coffee theme park, where attractions meld with learning for an unforgettable adventure.

17. Discover the Past at San Agustin Archaeological Park

Nestled in the eastern slopes of the Colombian Massif, close to Popayan, lays a trove of ancient history.

The San Agustin Archaeological Park is a testament to the region’s pre-Columbian past. It houses an expansive collection of sacred sculptures, ceremonial monuments, and burial sites, collectively forming the largest necropolis in South America.

Immerse yourself among the enigmatic stone figures, where depictions of animals, humans, and mythical beings are captured in volcanic stone.

• Location: Near Popayan, in the Colombian Massif’s eastern foothills
• Highlights:
  • Sprawling necropolis with religious sculptures and monuments
  • Fascinating stone statues with intricate carvings
• Historical Significance: Most megalithic monuments date from 100 to 1200 AD

Consider hiring a guide to dive deep into the tales these stones tell. Each monument breathes life into stories from a time long before colonial footprints, offering a unique perspective into the ancient civilization that once flourished here.

As you wander, let your guide lead you back through the ages, unraveling the mysteries carved into this sacred landscape.

16. Tatacoa Desert

In the embrace of the Tatacoa Desert’s red rock canyons, you’re transported far from the Colombia you know. Here, the remnants of a prehistoric rainforest stand tall; stark gullies and vibrant cliffs carve the landscape into a Martian marvel.

By hiking or cycling through these arid lands, you may glimpse the desert’s stealthier residents—snakes and wildcats claiming these painted canyons as home.

Highlights to Discover:

• Astronomical Wonders: Home to a premier observatory, the desert’s lack of light pollution promises unparalleled stargazing.
• Colorful Canyons: Trek through the desert’s unique palette, a canvas of yellows, reds, and greys.
• Cultural History: Uncover the reasons behind its early name, ‘Valley of Sorrows,’ coined by Spanish explorers.

Planning Your Visit:

Activity	Insights
Accommodations	Opt to stay in the desert overnight; it affords extra exploration and evening skies.
Transportation	Neiva is your gateway to and from these ancient lands.
Wildlife Watching	Keep an eye out for rare fauna amidst the geological splendor.

Embrace the nocturnal silence, and let the cosmos tell its story as you journey beneath the constellations. Here, the history of time itself is etched into the very stones, urging you to pause and ponder the Earth’s wonders beneath the star-studded cloak of night.

15. Fortress of the Hill of San Lazaro

Location: Cartagena’s Elevated Spectacle
Views: Panoramic City and Sea
Experience: Historical Exploration

• Built: Originally in 1536
• Use: Military Defensive Measures
• Features:
  • Expansive Walls
  • Strategic Batteries
  • Complex Tunnel System

Perched strategically atop San Lazaro Hill, the formidable Fortress of the Hill of San Lazaro has stood as a guardian over Cartagena for over 400 years. The greatest fortification erected by the Spanish in their overseas territories offers a powerful vantage point overlooking the land and coastal waters.

The fortress, beginning as an expansive structure, evolved through the centuries, with expansions bolstering its defenses.

You’ll discover a warren of tunnels designed to disorient and defend against enemy advances. This labyrinth complements the grandeur of the fort’s exterior – vast walls and imposing batteries adding to the complex’s intrigue.

Admire the architectural brilliance while uncovering poignant stories of past confrontations through well-curated exhibits. Artifacts and multimedia recount the fort’s critical role in historical warfare, offering you a glimpse into the strategic importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As you traverse the fortress, feel the echoes of history merge with stunning vistas to create an immersive encounter with Colombia’s storied past.

14. Piedra Del Penol

Ascend the iconic Piedra Del Penol, celebrated for its unparalleled vistas across Colombia’s heartland. A colossal granite sentinel, the rock stands sentinel at 2,137 meters above the Andean landscape, with a staircase etched into its side that beckons the bold.

• Elevation: 2,137 meters
• Staircase: 740 concrete steps
• Views: Panoramic vistas of the reservoir, mountains, and forests

Your challenge is the zigzagging climb, ultimately rewarding you with a tapestry of greenery, rippling waters, and mist-shrouded peaks. Pause to catch your breath, feeling the air thin as you ascend the path carved from the rock’s essence.

At the zenith lies more than just stunning scenery—cafes and an observation tower offer respite. Here, the world unfolds in a symphony of nature’s finest exhibits, a feast for the eyes that makes every step of your journey worthwhile.

See Related: Best Things To Do In Medellin, Colombia

13. Laguna de Guatavita

Nestled in the heart of the Andean eastern highlands, merely a stone’s throw from Bogota, Laguna de Guatavita beckons with its serene beauty and mythical allure.

This small, circular body of water, cradled by lush forests, offers more than just picturesque vistas—it is the birthplace of the El Dorado legend.

• Scenic Views: Capture the enchanting sights; the lake’s mirror-like surface reflects the encompassing greenery.
• Mythical Origins: Uncover stories of the Muisca traditions and the spiritual offerings of gold that gave rise to the legendary city of gold.
• Cultural Learning: Partake in guided explorations that delve into the Muisca people’s customs, from sacred ceremonies to the opulent tributes once cast into the lake’s depths.

This cultural gem, perched high in the Colombian mountains, gives you a blend of arresting natural charm and a stirring narrative, grounding your Colombian journey in the rich tapestry of local heritage.

12. Festival Mundial de Salsa in Cali

Cali, your destination for a week-long immersion in the heart of salsa, bursts with life each year. It hosts a vibrant celebration that’s more than dancing. Known as the Salsa Capital of the World, this city invites you to live the rhythm.

• Dance Workshops: Sharpen your moves with local experts.
• Street Festivities: The city pulses with music and dance.
• Competitions: Witness the fervor of top-tier salsa competitions.
• Culinary Delights: Explore succulent flavors at various food stalls.

From the pulsating beats in the streets to the spirited dance battles in nightclubs, Cali showcases the finest of salsa. Your week is filled with the electric sounds of congas and trumpets, inviting you to join festivities at any hour.

Engage in salsa classes or revel in the artistry of choreographed performances, and immerse yourself in concerts and cultural exchanges that speak to the soul of Colombia.

11. Providencia Island

Nestled closer to Nicaragua than Colombia, Providencia Island translates to a serene escape. Revel in the simplicity of sunbathing, swimming, and scuba diving opportunities. Quaint guesthouses and local eateries are sprinkled throughout the island, offering a taste of the area’s charm.

Exploration Highlights:

• Tropical Rainforest: Trek through lush jungles covering the island’s mountainous terrain.
• Beaches & Reefs: Discover sandy shores and vibrant coral reefs encircling the island.
• Historical Legacy: Trace the island’s past rooted in English Puritan colonies and legendary pirate tales.
• Watersports: Invigorate your stay with thrilling watersports amidst the breathtaking natural backdrop.

Submerge yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and warm, welcoming culture of Providencia. Beyond the untouched scenery, the island’s casual vibe invites you to indulge in its natural splendor and play in the sun-drenched environment.

10. Gold Museum, Bogota

Nestled in Bogota’s pulsing heart, the Gold Museum beckons with a trove that chronicles Colombia’s ancestral narrative. This central showcase harbors a staggering assemblage of over 55,000 pre-Columbian treasures, ranging from stone to textiles, each narrating the story of a civilization long past.

Since 1939, the museum architects have woven modern design with the rich tapestry of history housed within. As you meander through the museum’s corridors, the crafted gold artifacts whisper tales of deft hands and ancient rituals set against deep cultural reverence.

Not to be missed:

• Muisca Raft: A 1969 discovery, this masterpiece creates an opulent ceremony that may have inspired the El Dorado fable.
• Exquisite Craftsmanship: Masks and figures in gold, commanding attention and awe.
• Cultural Insight: Video installations glimpse creation myths and ancestral wisdom.

This labyrinth of glimmering history offers more than just visual splendor; it’s a vivid immersion into the heart of Colombia’s artistic heritage.

9. Medellin Cable Car

Embark on a journey above Medellin via the Metrocable, a gondola system that doubles as an attraction and vital public transit. Riding these aerial cabins presents a bird’ s-eye view of the city’s eclectic landscape, woven between mountains and urban sprawl.

• General Overview: The system comprises six lines, each offering a unique perspective.
• Vistas: Experience the layered neighborhoods set against Andean peaks.
• Connectivity: As functional transport for locals, it seamlessly integrates with the city’s topography.

Key destinations include Santo Domingo and Parque Arvi. Santo Domingo reveals Medellin’s pulsating local rhythms and expansive urban vistas. Parque Arvi, in contrast, invites you into the serenity of nature, with trails that lead deep into verdant surroundings.

Line	Destination	Key Features
L1	Santo Domingo	Urban insights, panoramic city views
LP	Parque Arvi	Nature trails, peaceful escapes

Float over Medellin’s dynamic cityscape and discover its hidden charms from the sky. Each glide offers a moment to capture not just photos but the essence of life across this diverse metropolis.

8. Cano Cristales

Embark on an expedition to Cano Cristales, and you’ll find a phenomenon that defies the ordinary. Nestled outside the quaint town of La Macarena, entwined within Serranía de la Macarena National Park, lies a spectacle that shimmers with an otherworldly charm.

• Location: Just beyond La Macarena, amid Serranía de la Macarena National Park
• Hues: Encounter a tapestry of colors from deep greens to vibrant reds, nuanced by sand, stones, and aquatic plants
• Experiences:
  • Hiking: Traverse the diverse trails along the river’s edge for arresting views.
  • Swimming: Bask in the serene natural pools, a blissful respite the river bestows.
  • Los Cuarzos Waterfall: Seek out the cascades for a mesmerizing display of nature’s power.

As you roam the vibrant edges of Cano Cristales, every step presents a visual feast. While the area was once off-limits, carefully managed tours now unlock this kaleidoscope of nature. Indulge in the essence of Colombia through this living, flowing masterpiece.

7. Carnaval de Barranquilla

Emerging as a kaleidoscope of festivities, Barranquilla’s Carnaval secures its prestige as the globe’s runner-up in grandeur next to Rio’s extravaganza. The city bursts with zest as festivals and street parades envelop the atmosphere.

La Batalla de Flores, the inaugural rite, sets the stage with floats bedecked in vibrant florals. Immerse yourself in the spectacle, donning vivid attire or traditional garb symbolic of Colombian lore.

• Inauguration: La Batalla de Flores
• Attire: Bright costumes echoing Colombian tales
• Vibe: Festive, with live music and dancing

6. Santuario de Las Lajas

Nestled just over the Ecuadorian frontier, the Santuario de Las Lajas emerges like a scene from an enchanted tale. It gracefully stretches across the Guaitara River, a bridge not only between shores but also between the earthly and the divine.

• Era: Early 20th-century
• Architecture: Gothic Revival
• Accessibility: Readily reached from Ipiales; possible guided tours

This architectural marvel was realized through the heartfelt contributions of the local community and today houses a quaint museum. As you approach, the whispers of history and local lore enrich the air, promising a journey that’s as much about the spirit as it is the site.

5. Monserrate

As you ascend the mountain of Monserrate by funicular or cableway, you’re rewarded with an unparalleled vista of Bogotá stretching below. At the peak resides a historic church dating back to the 17th century, a sanctuary for those on spiritual journeys.

The experience is punctuated by the awe-inspiring sunset that paints the downtown cityscape, promising a memorable tableau from this significant elevation. Embrace this moment as the skyline is bathed in golden hues, a spectacle not soon forgotten.

4. Ciudad Perdida

Nestled in Colombia’s lush wilderness, the City of Teyune beckons as a monument of a bygone era. Born from the skilled hands of the Tayrona Indians in the eighth century, this archaeological gem was once pulsed with life.

Now, its circular stone patios, cloaked by the jungle’s emerald embrace, offer a silent testimony to its past.

Trekking to Ciudad Perdida is an immersive journey:

• Duration: Typically a multi-day hike
• Terrain: Trek through unspoiled jungle landscapes
• Remnants: Observe ancient stone structures
• Eco-tourism: Guided excursions, camping experiences

Embrace this pristine opportunity to step into the world of an ancient civilization and traverse the same paths they once walked.

3. Cartagena’s Old Town

Within the embrace of Cartagena’s historic walls, you’ll step back in time as you roam narrow, stone-paved streets. Graceful colonial constructions stand as a testament to the city’s heritage, formerly a prosperous Spanish stronghold in the New World founded in 1533.

Engulfed by the Caribbean Sea’s caress, this quaint sector was the nexus for expeditions into unknown territories and a pivotal hub for the silver trade.

Here, imposing fortresses and robust ramparts tell of past defenses against pirate threats, while sacred sanctuaries like the Catedral and Iglesia de Santo Domingo recall a deeply spiritual past.

As the evening beckons, the lively Getsemani district invites you to savor traditional cuisine to the tune of spirited local music. The maritime city’s history mingles with vibrant cultural displays in every corner, creating a sensory journey through Colombia’s storied corridors.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in South America

2. Tayrona National Park

Within arm’s reach of Santa Marta, the Tayrona National Park emerges as a trove of natural splendor. Here, the verdant embrace of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta collides with the Caribbean Sea, giving rise to an environment teeming with life above and below the waterline.

Highlights of Tayrona National Park:

• Beaches: Discover the secluded sands of Cabo San Juan and the tranquil waters of La Piscina.
• Wildlife: Spot vibrant macaws, curious monkeys, and languid iguanas as they play out their days amidst the foliage.
• Adventures: Choose your pace: slow, meditative horseback rides or the adrenalized paths that lace the park’s humid jungles.
• History: Engage with the echoes of the past at an age-old archaeological site perched with a view of the expanse.

Whether you wade through lagoons, align your stride with the gentle waves as they collapse onto coral banks, or breathe in the salted air, Tayrona’s tableau awaits your footsteps.

1. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Nestled just outside Bogota, Zipaquirá welcomes you with its treasury of subterranean splendor. Here lies the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, where devotion and geology are embraced.

Imagine stepping into a hallowed space carved from the very earth, a sanctuary sculpted from salt, where you are one among 3,000 gathering in reflected reverence.

• Location: Zipaquirá, north of Bogota
• Capacity: 3,000 parishioners
• Structure: Crafted from salt deposits
• Service: Open for Sunday worship
• Surroundings: Salt Park and Brine Museum

Encircling this beacon of faith, the Salt Park awaits, offering a window into Zipaquirá’s salt mining legacy. Explore further, and you’ll find tales of mineral wealth etched into the walls, with the Brine Museum ready to deepen your understanding of the city’s saline heart.

Your visit here is not merely a tour; it’s an odyssey through the land’s rich past and devout present.