Locals call Medellín the "city of the eternal spring." The capital of Colombia’s Antioquia Department is second only to Bogotá in terms of size, but there are just as many opportunities for culture and adventure as there are in the nation’s capital. Use this guide to help find the best Medellín has to offer. _x000D_
Colombia has tropical weather and a stable equatorial climate throughout the year. High seasons for tourism are December-February and June-August, coinciding the driest weather—expect big crowds and a festive atmosphere. Head to the Amazon rainforest during the second half of the year, when easily-navigable waterways bring more opportunities for wildlife spotting and hiking. And whale-watching season on the Pacific Coast starts in July.
As if Cartagena's charm wasn't enough, the city also boasts some of the finest hotels in Colombia. Even better, many feature incredible swimming pools—here are nine of the best.
Colombia's travel scene is booming as travelers discover this nation's endless appeal, from the physical beauty of the Amazon and Andes to its vibrant culture and sophisticated cities. Here’s the low-down on planning your visit, including visa issues, getting around, and where to stay.
Coffee tasting tours and visits to coffee farms rank high in any visit to this region. But Colombia's Coffee Region also offers a number of exciting activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking. When it's time to slow down you can relax in thermal baths. This list highlights the best things to do in the caffeine capital of Colombia.
In Bogotá, a new generation of talented chefs have blessed the city with an array of dining options. Here you'll find both simple local fare and sophisticated restaurants melding global influences with traditional Colombian ingredients. Here are eight top choices that reflect the city's offerings and are great choices for families.
Colombia's capital offers a wide range of watering holes, from low-key neighborhood bars to clubs serving up Latin rhythms. Many of the best are concentrated in a few key zones: student-friendly Chapinero, the upscale Zona T, and uber-chic Parque de los 93. Here are nine options for your night out in Bogotá.
Bogotá has two faces. It is both a bewildering urban sprawl across a South American massif, and a hodgepodge of quaint, colonial-era villages merged together over the centuries. The Colombian capital has an enormous variety of activities and historic sites but requires good insight to navigate the intertwining fabric – use these expert tips to get the most out of your visit.
If you want to visit Colombia during the lull between peak tourist seasons, September is a good time to do so. You'll experience all the famous sights and places without having to contend with masses of tourists—plus, there are seasonal activities and events to enjoy.
Most travelers will find that eight to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Colombia trip with stops in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six or seven days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Zona Cafetera and Tayrona National Park. See more ideas for Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena itineraries below.