Top 5: Destinations to Visit in Colombia

Long considered too dangerous a destination to visit, the tide in Colombia is changing. These days, savvy travelers know the South American country has so much to offer, from lush greenery to some of the most beautiful beaches, all at prices much cheaper than stateside. And with short, direct flights from several major U.S. cities, there’s no reason not to visit.

Museo Botero, Bogota, Colombia © Spphotos | Dreamstime

Bogotá
The country’s capital is jam-packed with things to do, from visiting some of Colombia’s best museums (don’t miss the Museo Botero) to tossing back cocktails in Zona Rosa, the city’s nightlife district. While the days can be gray and the temperatures hover in the 60s year-round, Bogotá has its own big city charm.

Cali
Bogotá might be the national capital, but Cali is considered the capital of salsa. Thanks to the city’s rich Afro-Caribbean heritage, the music is ubiquitous throughout the city and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice dancing in one of Cali’s many clubs or bars. Other highlights include the Cali Zoo, considered one of the best in South America and Cristo Rey, a monument more than 30 meters high that provides incredible views.

Cartagena
Walking through Cartagena is like stepping back several centuries. The walled city and fortress, built as protection against pirates, combined with the brightly colored architecture and idyllic beach scenery, will whisk you back to colonial times. The historic city center is entirely walkable, and you can spend entire days stopping in shops, kicking back at a café or walking alongside the water.

Botero Plaza, Medellin, Colombia, with art by Fernando Botero © Jesse Kraft | Dreamstime

Medellín

Colombia’s second-largest city is also one of its most charming. With a temperate climate, the only metro system in the country and an impressive amount of neighborhood revitalization, the city today is a far cry from its drug cartel-fueled days in the 1980s. Spend an afternoon wandering through the Museo de Antioquia, people watch in Plaza Botero and check out the city’s views from Pueblito Paisa.

Santa Marta
Not a city with enormous tourist infrastructure, Santa Marta’s best attribute is its awesome location as a jumping-off point for some of Colombia’s other famous attractions. From here, it’s a quick bus ride to Tayrona National Natural Park, filled with some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches; Taganga, a small seaside town with diving that’s popular with backpackers; and treks to the Lost City.