ULTIMATE COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE (Travel Tips + Destinations)

Summary

This video guide explores the highlights of a six-week adventure through Colombia, detailing vibrant cities like Medellin, rich in culture and public transport, including unique cable cars. The journey features picturesque towns such as Guatape, famous for its colorful streets and El Peñón rock, and Salento, known for coffee farms and hiking the Cocora Valley. The creators share insights on safety, must-visit sites, and missed opportunities, such as Tayrona National Park and the Tatacoa Desert. With practical tips and a downloadable map, this guide is essential for anyone planning a trip to Colombia.

Takeaways

• 😀 Medellin offers a mix of high-class and historical districts, with the Candelaria being a vibrant area to explore.
• 😀 Cable cars serve as an essential form of public transport in Medellin, providing unique views of the city.
• 😀 Consider taking Pablo Escobar tours, but research mixed reviews before committing.
• 😀 Guatape, a picturesque town, is known for its colorful buildings and the iconic El Peñón rock, which is popular for climbing.
• 😀 The man-made lakes around Guatape are perfect for water sports like kayaking and jet skiing.
• 😀 Salento is a charming town in Colombia's coffee region, ideal for coffee farm tours and hiking the Cocora Valley to see the tallest wax palms.
• 😀 Be cautious about mobility when choosing accommodations in Salento, as some are on steep hills.
• 😀 Cali is the salsa capital of the world, great for salsa dancing but has safety concerns that travelers should be aware of.
• 😀 Ipiales is home to the stunning Las Lajas church, making it a worthwhile stop before crossing into Ecuador.
• 😀 Tayrona National Park, the Lost City trek, and the Tatacoa Desert are recommended spots to visit in future trips to Colombia.

Q & A

What are the main reasons people visit Medellin?

Many people visit Medellin for its unique public transport system featuring cable cars, the vibrant culture, and the option for workations in beautiful Airbnbs with fast Wi-Fi.

What is Guatape known for?

Guatape is known for its colorful town, the El Peñón rock which visitors can climb, and the opportunity for water sports in the surrounding lakes.

Why is Salento a significant destination in Colombia?

Salento is significant for its coffee region, where visitors can tour coffee farms and hike in the Cocora Valley, home to the tallest wax palm trees in the world.

What safety concerns are mentioned regarding Cali?

Cali is noted as potentially unsafe, with the narrator expressing feelings of unease during their visit, suggesting that travelers should be cautious.

What is Las Lajas, and why is it worth visiting Ipiales?

Las Lajas is described as an incredibly beautiful church in Ipiales, making the town worth a visit even if it's not a typical tourist destination.

What are some places the narrator regretted missing in Colombia?

The narrator regretted missing Tayrona National Park, the Lost City trek, Minca, the Tatacoa desert, Jardin, and the chance to play Tejo.

What advice is given for crossing the Ecuador border?

Travelers are advised to arrive at the Ecuador border as early as possible to avoid long waits and ensure a smoother crossing.

What type of activities can tourists do in Medellin?

Tourists can enjoy cable car rides, city tours, and explore local neighborhoods, along with optional Pablo Escobar tours.

How did the narrator describe the overall experience in Colombia?

The narrator described their experience in Colombia as enjoyable and diverse, with each town offering unique attractions and landscapes.

What resource did the narrator offer for future travelers?

The narrator offered a downloadable Google Map that includes locations visited, meals eaten, and specific bus terminals to assist future travelers.