Lush, steamy and unmistakably tropical, Colombia’s Amazon region seems very remote, even from the rest of the country. The main town, Leticia, is an easy-going, friendly little place, located right on the border with Brazil and Peru. But the main reason to visit is the Amazon River and the vast rainforest that surrounds it – full of strange and exotic plants and animals, from lazy sloths to electric eels – a massively important environment that provides a lung for the whole planet.
You’ll likely hear about Cartagena long before you arrive. While the main attraction is the historic Old Town — packed with wonderfully preserved mansions and churches — Cartagena is much more than its colorful streets: it has highrise developments, long stretches of coast, offshore reefs and vibrant neighborhoods where locals express themselves through dance, food, and art. Here's our expert guide to help you navigate this romantic and high-energy Caribbean city.
You won't find a more festive month in Colombia than December. Everyone here prepares weeks in advance for Christmas and the New Year, with seemingly non-stop parties and celebrations leading up to the big day. Higher lodging and airfare prices are to be expected, as is great weather throughout the country—even famously rainy Bogotá stays mostly dry this month.
Colombia is a country as pious as it is fun-loving, and March features one of the biggest religious celebrations: Semana Santa. Aside from Holy Week, there's also the chance that Carnival lasts into the beginning of the month. Let this guide direct you to the biggest celebrations (and best locations) for a March trip to Colombia.
Colombia's Coffee region has great accommodation options, from haciendas on coffee plantations to small hostels and boutique hotels in towns and cities. Use this list to find the best places to stay after a long day of biking, hiking, and coffee tasting.
Colombia is world-renowned for its coffee, and most travelers want to spend at least a day or two getting to know the region where this delicacy is grown and produced. Although a single overnight is enough to glimpse the Zona Cafetera, an in-depth visit can be more rewarding. That way, you won't just see the plantations that take the world's favorite drink from bean to cup—you'll also spend the night on a coffee farm, hike the verdant hills, and meet the people who make the magic happen.
Thirteen to 15 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Medellín, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park, especially when also including Bogotá and Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in Bogotá and Zona Cafetera, eight to 11 days is enough for your trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as six or seven days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Medellín, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park and beyond.
Cartagena is a popular Colombian travel destination, boasting one of the country's liveliest dining scenes. Here you'll find seafood restaurants aplenty, plus many fine eateries serving cuisine from around the world. There's something for every member of the family in Cartagena—here are some favorites.
Ten to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting both Bogotá and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Medellín and Cartagena. If you're not interested in Medellín and Cartagena, five to seven days is enough for your Bogotá and Zona Cafetera trip. Check out the below favorite Bogotá and Zona Cafetera trips.
Most people visiting Medellín spend about eight to 10 days in Colombia, which usually includes some time in Bogotá and Cartagena as well. For travelers wanting to visit Medellín exclusively, plan four to six days for a well-paced trip. For the best itineraries, including Medellín, keep reading below.