Uncover Colombia’s Hidden Beauty

As one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, every corner of Colombia offers a chance to discover something unique and awe-inspiring. Its beauty lies in its mountains and valleys, deserts and glistening oceans, its people and their cultures, their artisan crafts and specialty cuisines. Yet, when travelling, visitors tend to concentrate on a few (also beautiful) places. But aren’t you intrigued to discover what lies beyond Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena? Uncover Colombia’s hidden beauty with nine experiences that will take you off the beaten path to give you a unique immersion into this magical land. 

1. Immerse yourself in Indigenous culture in La Guajira 

Nestled at the northern tip of the country, La Guajira offers a desert landscape that contrasts with the pristine blue waters of the Caribbean Sea like you’ve never seen before. Against this breathtaking backdrop, you’ll find the Wayuu people, the most populous Indigenous community in La Guajira, who are more than happy to welcome you to share their customs, myths, and traditional dances. When you visit their rancherías or villages, you’ll get to spend the night in a chinchorro (hammock) and marvel at their vibrant handwoven textiles and intricate pottery. It’s a unique opportunity to experience Colombia's Indigenous heritage authentically. 

2. Sample coffee in lesser-known coffee regions 

While hardcore coffee aficionados have probably heard about Colombia’s Coffee Region (Caldas, Quindío and Risaralda), there are many other areas where these magical beans are cultivated. Huila, for example, nestled in the Andes Mountains, is one of the top-producing regions for specialty coffee in Colombia and the world. Immerse yourself in its culture with The Magical Coffee Route, where you can choose between four tours that will give you a taste of what exceptional coffee is like. Beyond this, Huila allows you to witness local life and connect with coffee farmers making your journey truly unforgettable. 

3. Go stargazing in the Tatacoa Desert 

Another gem found in Huila, the Tatacoa Desert is a natural wonder offering unique rock formations, hiking trails, desert flora, and one of the best stargazing experiences you can find in Colombia. Thanks to its mostly uninhabited landscape, there is minimal light pollution thus the conditions for this outdoor activity are perfect. There are two astronomical observatories where you can partake in talks by physics professors to learn more about the Milky Way and other celestial objects. So, whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or are just looking for an otherworldly experience, Tatacoa will surely leave you awestruck. 

4. Learn about Afro-Colombian culture in Palenque 

San Basilio de Palenque is an enclave in the heart of the Caribbean coast, a few hours from Cartagena, that offers a window into still-surviving African traditions brought to Colombia hundreds of years ago. As a UNESCO-recognised village, in Palenque, you’ll get to experience authentic drum-based music, flavoursome dishes, lively dancing, and the incomparable hospitality of the local community, who are descendants of escaped African slaves. Most of the traditions are completely different from the rest of the country, including the language which is called Palenquero. Come and explore a town that is a true testament to resilience and heritage. 

5. Marvel at Indigenous rock art in San José del Guaviare 

For years an off-limits destination, the Guaviare department has seen a recent surge in popularity among avid adventurers as a place to travel back to pre-colonial times. Seen as the gate to Colombia’s Amazon region, you can depart from San José del Guaviare, its capital, to one of the many archeological sites like Cerro Azul or El Tigre where you’ll find cave art believed to be thousands of years old. These enigmatic depictions reveal the stories, rituals, and beliefs of the Indigenous people from centuries ago, all against a lush backdrop of dense Amazon jungle. 

6. Enjoy whale watching in Chocó 

Chocó, on Colombia's Pacific coast, is an unmissable destination for anyone seeking a thrilling and unforgettable adventure: whale watching. Between June and October, the warm Pacific waters become a playground for humpback whales on their migratory journey. The sight of these majestic giants breaching and tail-slapping is a heart-pounding spectacle you won't forget. Popular destinations that offer tours for this experience are Nuquí or Bahía Solano and, if you’re lucky, you’ll even get to see the release of sea turtles into the ocean. Beyond this, Chocó's lush, mostly untouched rainforests and pristine beaches make the experience even more magical. 

7. Spot wildlife in Los Llanos 

In the vast and untamed plains of Los Llanos, on the border of Colombia and Venezuela, visitors can marvel at the wildlife roaming free in many of the reserves dedicated to their conservation. Take a safari around one of the savannas in Casanare to spot capybaras, deer, wild pigs, caymans, turtles, anacondas, and, if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot a jaguar, America’s largest feline. And if birds are more your thing, Los Llanos is a birdwatcher’s paradise boasting species like the endangered Orinoco goose and scarlet ibis. To top it all off, you’ll witness some of the most beautiful sunsets ever. 

8. Explore Colombia by bike in Boyacá 

Colombia’s made a name for itself in the global cycling scene thanks to figures such as Nairo Quintana and Egan Bernal, and you can explore the places that made them in a cycling tour through Boyacá and neighbouring Cundinamarca. Now, you don’t have to be a premier athlete to enjoy riding through its rolling hills. You can discover this magical land at your own pace, visit picturesque colonial towns such as Villa de Leyva, or wonder at its natural scenery in places like Laguna de Tota. Discovering Boyacá by bike will make for an invigorating and unforgettable travel experience. 

9. Wander the streets of Barichara in Santander 

When you travel around Colombia, you’ll discover there are many quaint colonial towns nestled between colossal mountains or tranquil valleys. Santander, however, has some of the most beautiful, including Barichara. When you step into its cobblestoned streets you’ll be transported back in time to a simpler era. Wander around whitewashed houses, a testament to colonial architecture, or sit and relax at one of its charming restaurants like Elvia, offering local and international dishes with fresh produce from the area. For the more adventurous, there are a few hiking trails to lookout points where you’ll get breathtaking views of Santander’s mountains. 

Feeling inspired?

Start planning your trip to Colombia, the country of beauty, by heading to the official website.

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