11 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT COLOMBIA
There are so many reasons to visit Colombia! It is one of my favorite countries to visit, so much I even decided to live in it for a few months.
What attracted me to Colombia was all the nature it offers. However, I always heard about how it’s a lively country, so I was intrigued to know the culture. It turns out I loved it more than I expected, and so do many other foreigners who visit.
Colombia has everything you can ask for. There is something to do for everyone, from beautiful beaches to lush green nature, colorful towns, and lovely cities.
And although Colombia gets a bad rap for being dangerous, I can assure you that I felt comfortable traveling throughout the country as a solo woman. Of course, you must take precautions, and there is crime like in many regular big cities, but it shouldn’t be a reason to disregard a country to visit.
Colombia will steal your heart the same way it stole mine. Here are some of the best reasons to visit Colombia.
11 Great Reasons To Visit Colombia
Table of Contents
Reasons to Visit Colombia
1. The Nature
Colombia is blessed with nature. Colombia has ranked third in the world among the countries with the greatest natural beauty, according to a list published by Forbes magazine (2022). It has some beautiful beaches, national parks, lagoons, waterfalls, mountains, rainforests, and so much more. Some stand-out places include Tayrona National Park, the Amazon Rainforest, lovely islands, and the beaches on the Caribbean coast.
You can also find the Sierra Nevada mountains and many paramos. No matter what part of Colombia you are in, nature lovers will find places to enjoy within minutes of the big cities.
2. Lovely Cities
Colombia has some lovely cities to explore. In Medellin, you will find an innovative and clean city with friendly people. It’s surrounded by mountain views and has perfect spring weather year-round. It has lots of things to do, and beautiful colorful towns surround it.
There is also the city of Cartagena which has an old town charm in its city center. Plus, you can find beautiful beaches by going on an island tour.
Although not everyone likes Bogota, I enjoyed the diverse vibe of the city, and perhaps you will too.
3. Colorful Towns
If you love visiting a country full of color, look no further than Colombia (and Mexico) for that experience. Colombia has many colorful towns to explore. You can find many near the city of Medellin and throughout the country.
4. The Friendly People
I’ve traveled to various countries, and apart from Mexico and the Philippines, I find Colombians also to be some of the friendliest people in the world. They’re deeply proud of their country, and they will go out of their way to show you new places. It’s very easy to strike up a conversation with them and form friendships.
5. The Coffee
Many of those beautiful lush green Andes mountains you find in Colombia are home to the coffee region. Colombia is famous for its coffee, and you can visit these coffee regions to go on tours and learn more about the process.
Plus, you can taste some throughout the country and go on coffee tours in Jardin, Salento, Minca, and many other places.
6. The Street Art
The street art scene has grown in recent years, and you can find it in major cities throughout the country. For example, in Medellin, you can head to Comuna 13 to learn about the neighborhood’s history and enjoy the art. In Bogota, you will find plenty of excellent street art in the Candelaria area. I also found some cool artwork in the center of Cali.
7. Authentic Experiences
Because Colombia doesn’t have high tourism outside of Medellin and Cartagena, you are bound to have many authentic experiences outside those cities (and even in those cities). It is very easy to find local street food, and it’s very common to be the only foreigner on local tours. Therefore, you will meet local people and have authentic local experiences.
8. The Music
If you’re familiar with popular reggaeton music, you’re familiar with a popular Colombian music style. But that’s not the only style of music you’ll find in the country. Colombians also listen to salsa, vallenato, bachata, champeta, porro, cumbia, and many other styles.
Depending on the region you are visiting, you will find different styles playing more than the other. For example, Cali is known as the capital of salsa, and almost everyone you meet there will be an expert salsa dancer. Therefore, it’s the perfect place to take classes.
In Medellin, you find reggaeton playing the most. Many famous singers of this style have succeeded here, such as Maluma, JBlavin, and Karol G. If you go to the coast, you will find vallenato and champeta as a popular coastal style.
Colombia has had many internationally famous singers such as Shakira, Carlos Vives, Juanes, and so many more. Colombians are definitely talented in the music industry.
9. The Festivals
If there is a country that knows how to party, it’s Colombia. Not only does it have a vibrant nightlife in all of its major cities, but it also holds some of the biggest festivals in the country. For example, the Carnaval in Barranquilla is the 2nd largest festival in the world. There is also the Carnaval de Blancos y Negros Pasto and the Flower Festival in Medellin in August.
These carnivals are when Colombians gather for singing, dancing, music, drinking, parades, and parties. They are big draws for tourists who like to experience these types of events.
10. The Beaches
Colombia isn’t only rainforests and mountains. It also has fantastic beaches. Cartagena is one of the most visited destinations in the country. Many cruise ships stop here, and tourists go beach hopping. However, some less popular spots have great beaches to visit.
For example, San Andres island has turquoise blue waters and an incredible vibe. Then, at Tayrona National Park, you see where the rainforest meets the Caribbean sea.
11. Travel Value
On top of all the great things in Colombia, you will find it a country of great value when it comes to spending. Budget travelers will extend their dollar here, and regular travelers can find luxury stays, dining, and experiences for great prices.
These are only a few reasons to visit Colombia, but there are so many more. It has waterfalls, mountains, paramos, wildlife and so much more!
What To Pack For Colombia
Here are some items to pack with you when visiting Colombia:
Travel Booking Resources
Book Your Flight:
To find cheap flights, check Skyscanner and Google Flights. These search engines check airlines to find you the best deals. The more flexibility you have, the better flight deals available.
Book Your Accommodation:
Booking.com is my favorite booking site for hotels but it also shows great deals on hostels and apartments. Plus, when you reach Genius Level, you get special discounts, included breakfasts, and upgrades on some hotel rooms. Hostelworld is specifically for budget travelers who enjoy hostels. This is the best place for finding great options.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance and Visa Applications:
Travel insurance will protect you against theft, injury, illness, and cancellations. Sometimes unexpected things happen during a trip and protections will keep you covered. Two great options are: Safety Wing and World Nomads. Also, iVisa can help you get a visa if you need one.
Book Tours:
Sometimes the best way to see a place is through tours. I recommend checking out Get Your Guide for some fun and unique adventures wherever you go.
Check out my other travel resources to help you book your trip!
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