Colombia
CENTRAL & EASTER CORDILLERA – EASTER PLAINS & AMAZON REGION- PACIFIC COAST – CARIBBEAN
central cordillera
Medellín. Alt: 1550 masl (20° – 27°)
Known as the city of eternal spring. It´s filled with art, culture, high end restaurants and much more.
Nariño. Alt: 2.600 masl (8° – 22°) A southern high altitude department surrounded by imposing Volcanoes and typical high andean culture. Enjoy Negros y Blancos Carnival in Pasto during December.
Jericó, Ant. Alt: 2.100 masl (18° – 26°) Magical colorful mountain town ideal to taste coffee, hike and rest around typical vibrant antioqueño culture. Filled with museums, adventure sports and beautiful landscapes.
Los Nevados National Park. Alt: 3.000 – 5.000 masl (5° – 24°) Stunning scenery ideal to trek and attempt tropical glacier summits. Admire Paramo ecosystems and bath in exotic thermal pools.
San Agustin – Huila. Alt 1.730 masl. (16° – 27°) A unique and mind-blowing archeological site surrounded by pristine forests and typical rural mountain colombian culture.
Manizales – Caldas. 2.160 masl. (15° – 26°) World coffee capital offers an exciting yet authentic mountain city experience filled with cafés and galleries, it hosts important festivals like la Feria de Manizales celebrated on the first days of January.
eASTER CORDILLERA
Bogotá. Alt: 2600 masl (14° – 23°)
Cosmopolitan capital of Colombia holds a bit of taste of every region. Enjoy its vast cultural offer, amazing restaurants and stunning views with rewarding day trips to the country. Pick a direction, choose your style and have fun!
Boyacá. Alt: 169 – 5380 masl (10° – 29°) Among the Warmest Hospitality Places worldwide Boyacán landscapes offer colonial heritage, paleontological history, Vineyards and high andean summits. Make exciting road trips around a diverse range of climates including places like Villa de Leyva, Lago de Tota, and Cocuy National Park.
Barichara, Santander. Alt: 1300 masl (22° – 28°) Disputing the most beautiful town in Colombia with Jericó, this stone made enchanted paradise will calm you down with impressive views and colonial gems around one of the deepest canyons in the world. Characterised by its unique style and Santandereano culture, it will show you a less green and more terracotta palette of the Andes.
Páramo de Chingaza. Alt: 3200 masl (5° – 17°) One of the most preserved paramo ecosystems worldwide is home to several endemic species including the Andean Bear.
Lago de Tota. Alt: 3.015 masl (8° – 22°) Is the second largest body of water in South America. Tota Lake will welcome you with a typical high andean culture neighboring Sogamoso and Monguí towns. It´s a good stop for road trips connecting with easter plains Safaris via Yopal.
Cocuy National Park. Alt: 5.100 masl (2° – 12°) Stunning national park containing the largest glaciers remaining in Colombia is home to the Condor of the Andes. Explore exciting trails in ones of Colombian most dramatic high altitude landscapes.
eASTER plains and amazon region
Mavecure Hills. Alt: 250 masl 25° – 32°) Explore one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth, guided by indigenous hosts as you navigate pristine rivers and support their ancestral way of life.
San José del Guaviare Alt: 185 masl (25° – 32°) Where the plains meet the Amazon, immerse yourself in cowboy culture, explore pristine jungle, and discover one of the largest rock art galleries on Earth.
Tuparro National Park. Alt: 80 masl (25° – 35°) In the heart of the Eastern Plains, marvel at vast savannas, mighty rivers, and the majestic Maipures rapids—once called the “Eighth Wonder of the World”—while discovering a sanctuary of biodiversity and indigenous heritage.
Casanare Safari. Alt: 200 masl (25° – 32°) Embark on a wildlife safari through Colombia’s wild savannas, where cowboys ride with pride and jaguars, anacondas, and capybaras roam free—an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Llanos.
Araracuara, Caquetá. Alt: 200 masl (25° – 32° Journey deep into the amazon to Araracuara, where towering cliffs guard the caño and anciente cultures whisper through sacred rock art- an off the grid- immersion into de myztical heart of the rainforest.
Leticia – Amazon River (Triple Frontier): 96 masl (25° – 32°) At the gateway to the Amazon, Leticia invites you to navigate the world’s mightiest river, encounter vibrant wildlife, and connect with diverse indigenous cultures in Colombia’s southernmost frontier neighbouring Brazil and Perú.
Caribbean Region
Cartagena. Alt: 2 masl (25° – 34°) Step into a living postcard of colonial charm, where cobblestone streets, Caribbean rhythms, and golden sunsets over fortress walls blend history, culture, and romance on the Colombian coast.
Santa Marta Alt: 0 – 2.000 masl (18° – 32°) Nestled between the sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Santa Marta offers a gateway to the tropical wonders of Minca’s cool highlands, the pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park, and the rich cultural heritage of Colombia’s oldest city.
San Andrés & Providence Alt: 0 – 100 masl (25° – 32°) In the heart of the Caribbean, discover the vibrant, turquoise waters of San Andrés and the untouched charm of Providencia. These islands offer a perfect blend of idyllic beaches, rich Afro-Caribbean culture, and world-class diving in coral reefs.
Guajira Alt: 0 – 1000 masl (25° – 32°) Venture to Colombia’s northernmost tip, where the desert meets the Caribbean. In La Guajira, explore vast sand dunes, crystal-clear beaches, and the unique Wayuu culture—an unforgettable journey through striking landscapes and ancestral traditions.
Capurgana Alt: 0 masl (25° – 32°) Tucked away on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Capurganá offers pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a tranquil escape from the world. Discover hidden coves, vibrant coral reefs, and the untouched beauty of this remote paradise, where nature and serenity reign.
Barranquilla. Alt: 9 masl (25° – 32°) Vibrant and dynamic, Barranquilla pulses with energy as Colombia’s Carnival capital. Immerse yourself in lively music, colorful parades, and rich cultural traditions, all set against the backdrop of the Caribbean coast. A city where history, art, and festivity come together.
PACIFIC Region
Cali .Alt: 1000 masl (25° – 37°) The salsa capital of Colombia, Cali is a city that dances to its own rhythm. Known for its vibrant nightlife, rich Afro-Colombian culture, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Cali offers an energetic blend of music, food, and celebration amidst stunning valley landscapes.
Nuquí Alt: 0 masl (25° – 32°) A hidden gem on Colombia’s Pacific coast, Nuquí is a paradise for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush jungles, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect destination for whale watching, surfing, and immersing yourself in the wild beauty of the rainforest.
Malpelo National Park. Alt: 0 masl (25° – 32°) A remote and rugged island in the Pacific Ocean, Malpelo is a diver’s paradise. Known for its dramatic underwater landscapes and incredible biodiversity, it offers some of the world’s most thrilling dives, with sightings of hammerhead sharks, rays, and diverse marine life.
Bahía Malaga Alt: 0 masl (25° – 32°) Tucked away in the Colombian Pacific, Bahía Málaga is a serene sanctuary where lush rainforests meet calm waters. Renowned for its biodiversity, the bay is an ideal spot for whale watching, kayaking, and exploring the vibrant marine life that thrives in this protected coastal paradise.
Buenaventura Alt: 0 masl (25° – 32°) Colombia’s main port city on the Pacific coast, Buenaventura offers a gateway to vibrant marine life, lush rainforests, and rich Afro-Colombian culture. From its bustling streets to pristine beaches, it’s a place where adventure, culture, and nature seamlessly blend.
Gorgona National Park. Alt: 0 masl (22° – 32°) A remote island paradise in the Pacific Ocean, Isla Gorgona is a protected natural reserve teeming with wildlife. Known for its vibrant marine ecosystems, dense rainforests, and historical prison site, it offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
FERias y fiestas
1. Carnaval de Barranquilla (Barranquilla Carnival)
When: February or March (before Lent)
What: One of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world, known for its colorful parades, music, and dancing (particularly cumbia and salsa). It’s a celebration of Afro-Colombian and indigenous culture.
Why it’s special: UNESCO declared it a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It’s a massive, lively event full of traditional costumes, music, and street parties.
2. Feria de las Flores (Festival of Flowers)
When: Early August
Where: Medellín
What: A celebration of the region’s flower-growing culture, featuring flower parades, concerts, and cultural exhibitions. The most iconic event is the “Desfile de Silleteros” (Silleteros Parade), where flower growers carry elaborate floral arrangements on their backs.
Why it’s special: It’s a beautiful and colorful event that celebrates Medellín’s culture and history.
3. Feria de Cali (Cali Fair)
When: December 25–30
Where: Cali
What: Known as the “Salsa Capital of the World,” this fair is filled with salsa dancing, concerts, and parades. It’s a huge celebration of Afro-Colombian culture, music, and dance.
Why it’s special: It’s a non-stop party with daily salsa competitions and the famous “Cali Fair Parade.”
4. Festival Vallenato (Vallenato Festival)
When: Late April or early May
Where: Valledupar
What: This festival honors the traditional music of the vallenato genre, a blend of African, indigenous, and Spanish influences. It includes music competitions, parades, and performances.
Why it’s special: It celebrates one of Colombia’s most iconic music styles, with legendary vallenato musicians performing live.
5. Fiesta de la Candelaria (Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria)
When: Early February
Where: Popayán
What: A religious and cultural event celebrated with processions, concerts, traditional dances, and fireworks. It’s a mix of religious devotion and cultural festivities.
Why it’s special: The festival is held in the historic colonial city of Popayán, often called the “White City” because of its beautifully preserved white-washed architecture.
6. Feria de Manizales (Manizales Fair)
When: Early January
Where: Manizales (Coffee Region)
What: A celebration of the region’s coffee culture, featuring bullfights, parades, concerts, and typical music. There are also cultural exhibitions that showcase local art, crafts, and cuisine.
Why it’s special: Manizales is a charming city nestled in the Andes, and the fair combines both cultural and agricultural exhibitions with local traditions.
7. Feria del Sol y la Luna (Sun and Moon Festival)
When: June
Where: Villa de Leyva
What: A unique celebration of indigenous traditions with music, dance, and ceremonies under the full moon. It’s a mix of cultural activities and astronomical events.
Why it’s special: It’s an off-the-beaten-path festival in one of Colombia’s most picturesque colonial towns, Villa de Leyva.
8. Festival Internacional de Jazz de Bogotá (Bogotá International Jazz Festival)
When: Late July
Where: Bogotá
What: An internationally recognized event that brings together world-class jazz musicians from around the globe. The festival features free concerts in outdoor parks and cultural centers.
Why it’s special: It’s an artistic and musical celebration that attracts both jazz lovers and international visitors.
9. Feria Nacional del Bambuco (National Bambuco Festival)
When: June
Where: Neiva (Huila)
What: A celebration of the traditional Colombian music style, bambuco. The festival includes folk dances, music competitions, and colorful parades.
Why it’s special: It’s a celebration of Colombian folklore and indigenous music traditions from the Andes region.
10. Fiesta del Mar (Festival of the Sea)
When: July
Where: Santa Marta
What: This coastal festival celebrates the beauty and abundance of the Caribbean Sea, with sailing competitions, music performances, and beach parties.
Why it’s special: It highlights Santa Marta’s coastal charm and serves as a great way to explore the region’s marine culture.
11. Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata (Vallenato Legend Festival)
When: Late April
Where: Valledupar
What: A musical celebration of the vallenato music style, featuring live performances from renowned artists and competitions. It’s a tribute to the vallenato legends of Colombia.
Why it’s special: It’s a must for anyone interested in Colombia’s musical traditions, especially the vallenato genre.
12. Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria (Virgin of Candelaria Festival)
When: February
Where: Cúcuta
What: A religious and cultural event marked by processions, traditional dances, music performances, and fairs.
Why it’s special: It’s a beautiful mix of devotion and cultural celebration in one of Colombia’s northern cities.
These festivals offer a wonderful mix of Colombia’s cultural, historical, and musical diversity. Whether you’re looking for vibrant music festivals, cultural celebrations, or traditional dances, Colombia has something to offer every type of traveler!
