12 Best Places to Visit in Colombia - Travel Video

Summary

Colombia, once off the tourist map due to safety concerns, has transformed into a vibrant destination offering diverse landscapes and rich culture. From the sandy beaches of the Caribbean to the peaks of the Andes and the lush Amazon rainforest, the country's heritage blends indigenous roots with Spanish colonial influence. Key attractions include the historic town of Villa de Leyva, the towering rock of El Peñón de Guatapé, and the UNESCO-listed Cartagena. Other highlights include the coffee-growing region of Zona Cafetera, the salt cathedral of Zipaquirá, and the stunning Tairona National Park, making Colombia a must-visit for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Takeaways

• 😀 Colombia offers diverse landscapes, from Caribbean beaches to the Amazon rainforests and Andes Mountains.
• 😀 Via de Leva is a charming town with a large Plaza Mayor and unique Terracotta House, the largest clay structure in the world.
• 😀 El Peñón de Guatapé is a towering rock that offers spectacular views after a challenging climb of 649 steps.
• 😀 Popayán is known for its colonial churches and Semana Santa celebrations, making it a center of religious importance in Colombia.
• 😀 Zipaquirá is home to the Salt Cathedral, a church built within a salt mine, attracting both tourists and regular worshippers.
• 😀 Las Lachas Sanctuary is a picturesque church perched on a bridge over a waterfall, drawing pilgrims to its stunning Gothic architecture.
• 😀 San Agustin is an archaeological park showcasing ancient pre-Columbian statues, monuments, and burial mounds.
• 😀 Medellín, once infamous for violence, has transformed into a vibrant city with artistic neighborhoods like Comuna 13 and a mild climate.
• 😀 Zona Cafetera, Colombia’s coffee-growing region, offers coffee farm tours, hiking trails, and scenic views of towering palm trees in Cocora Valley.
• 😀 San Gil is Colombia's adventure sports capital, known for bungee jumping and white-water rafting, set amidst historic charm.
• 😀 Bogotá, Colombia's capital, features a blend of cultural attractions, such as museums and historic districts, alongside a growing nightlife scene.
• 😀 Tayrona National Park offers incredible beaches and hiking trails, with views of the Caribbean coast and natural swimming lagoons.
• 😀 Cartagena is a historic coastal city with colonial architecture, fortifications, and a colorful old town, making it a major tourist destination.

Q & A

What is the historical significance of Colombia in relation to its indigenous and Spanish heritage?

Colombia's heritage reflects the culture of its indigenous peoples as well as the Spanish colonizers who began settling in the region in the early 15th century. This blend of indigenous and Spanish influences is evident in the country's architecture, traditions, and festivals.

Why was Colombia not on the tourist map a couple of decades ago?

Colombia was not considered a safe tourist destination due to security concerns related to drug cartels and violence. However, the government has since worked to improve safety and change the country's image, making it a more welcoming destination for travelers.

What makes Via de Leva's Plaza Mayor stand out?

Via de Leva's Plaza Mayor is one of the largest town squares in South America. It serves as a gathering place for various celebrations and festivals, such as the Onion Beauty Pageant. The town's Andalusian-style architecture with white buildings and wooden trim adds to its charm.

What is the unique attraction in Via de Leva?

A unique attraction in Via de Leva is the Terracotta House, which is considered to be the largest piece of pottery in the world. This clay structure is a remarkable example of craftsmanship and is a must-see for visitors.

How did El Peñón de Guatapé become a popular tourist destination?

El Peñón de Guatapé, a giant rock formation, became a major tourist destination after the first known ascents were made in 1954. Visitors can climb the 649 steps built into the rock to reach the summit, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of lakes and islands.

What can visitors expect to see in Popayán?

Popayán is known for its colonial churches and rich religious heritage. The city is particularly vibrant during Semana Santa (Holy Week) when thousands of people parade through the streets, starting from the Iglesia Santo Domingo.

What makes the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá a significant site?

The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá is an underground Catholic church built entirely within a former salt mine. It is a major tourism destination and also serves as a place of worship, accommodating thousands of parishioners every Sunday.

What is the architectural style of the Las Lajas Sanctuary?

The Las Lajas Sanctuary is built in the Gothic Revival style and is situated on a bridge spanning a canyon over the Kwaitara River. This stunning structure, completed in 1949, is a popular pilgrimage site, particularly due to its miraculous origins and breathtaking surroundings.

What is San Gil known for?

San Gil is renowned as the adventure sports capital of Colombia. It offers activities such as bungee jumping and white-water rafting, with the latter featuring one of the rarest opportunities to raft Class 5 Rapids in the world.

What role does the Zona Cafetera play in Colombia's coffee industry?

The Zona Cafetera is Colombia's coffee-growing region, producing almost half of the country's coffee crop. Visitors can explore coffee farms and learn about the cultivation process, as well as hike the Cocora Valley, home to the world's tallest palm trees.

Why is Medellín considered a modern city today?

Once infamous for its association with the cocaine cartel, Medellín has undergone a dramatic transformation since the 1990s. The city now boasts a vibrant arts scene, modern infrastructure, and attractions like Comuna 13, a neighborhood that has evolved from crime-ridden to a thriving hub of colorful murals and community resilience.

What is the significance of Cartagena in Colombia's history?

Cartagena is a historic city that was one of the most important Caribbean ports from the 16th to 18th centuries. It was heavily fortified during colonial times to protect against pirate attacks, and its colonial architecture, museums, and fortifications make it a top destination for history enthusiasts.