Where in Colombia: Famous & Hidden Places
Editeur
Last updated
Where in Colombia? There are endless options, making the decision a bit tricky. I’ve been traveling around this country since 2015, and many places remain on my list!
To guide you, I’ve selected what I think are the most amazing spots, divided into three themes: the most well-known, the most romantic, and the most stunning.
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WHERE IN COLOMBIA: First-timers
The most famous places to visit in Colombia
Beautiful
TPMT note: 9/10
CARTAGENA
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 5/5
A colonial past and a vibrant culture.
With a beautiful reminder of Colombia’s colonial past and many tourist options, Cartagena de Indias offers a pleasant and easy way to discover the country’s history and culture through its architecture, museums, cuisine, and street art. The lively atmosphere of Cartagena also beautifully reflects the warmth and cheerfulness of the Colombian people.
From Cartagena, it’s incredibly simple to hop on a boat and enjoy a paradise beach on one of the islands in the Rosario Archipelago, bathed in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
I love waking up early to wander through the still-sleepy streets of the historic center, admiring the richly decorated buildings and soaking in San Diego‘s peaceful atmosphere with its flower-covered balconies. Then, I head to Getsemani, where the walls are adorned with stunning graffiti, before enjoying a hearty breakfast and a good coffee.
Then, I like to sip a cocktail or a beer while watching the sunset from a trendy rooftop or atop the city’s walls.
When I’m with friends, I rent a private boat to explore the Rosario Islands at my own pace.
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Digital nomad
TPMT note: 10/10
MEDELLIN
Where: Antioquia
Touristy: 4/5
A Colombian city where life is pleasant.
A sense of tranquility flows through the diverse neighborhoods of Medellín, known as the city of eternal spring. With its incredible selection of hotels, countless restaurants and bars, and a vibrant social scene—as proven by its renowned nightlife—Medellín is an appealing destination.
To visit Medellín is to experience Colombia’s culture through its arts (Botero’s sculptures, street art) and better understand its recent past, as exemplified by Comuna 13.
It’s also an ideal hub for day trips to nearby attractions, like the colonial town of Guatapé.
I start my day by visiting La Comuna 13 before it gets crowded with tourists. I wander through the maze of streets with graffiti-covered walls full of powerful messages. Then, I descend by cable car, admiring the view of the city.
After snacking on empanadas at the beautiful Centro Comercial Palacio Nacional, I stroll through the city center and spend time at Plaza Botero, an open-air museum with Botero’s stunning sculptures.
In the late afternoon, I pick a cozy rooftop in the El Poblado neighborhood to watch the sunset before dining at El Alambique, one of my favorite restaurants.
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Panorama
TPMT note: 9/10
GUATAPÉ
Where: Antioquia
Touristy: 5/5
A colorful destination and a natural wonder.
Just two hours by bus from Medellín, Guatapé is a very popular colonial village nestled on the shores of a large artificial lake that snakes through lush green hills. The lively village center boasts colorful, picturesque streets with souvenir shops and restaurants.
Guatapé is famous for its Piedra del Peñon, a giant monolith rising just outside the town—by climbing 750 steps, you’ll reach the top and be rewarded with a spectacular view!
The lakeshore is home to charming hotels, perfect for a relaxing stay.
I like to start my visit to Guatapé with the Piedra del Peñon, where I can take in the breathtaking lake view.
Then I grab a tuk-tuk for the 10-minute ride to Guatapé. I stroll through the village’s picturesque streets, admiring the Zócalos, the colorful bas-reliefs that decorate the houses.
After lunch by the lake, I end my afternoon with a pedal boat ride, weaving through the small islands where beautiful houses are hidden.
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Natural park
TPMT note: 9/10
TAYRONA
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 5/5
Lush vegetation and idyllic beaches.
Close to Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park is a dream destination for discovering stunning flora and breathtaking beaches, thanks to hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. You won’t need a guide, as the paths are generally well-marked.
For nature lovers with a more adventurous spirit, there’s nothing better than spending a night in the park. The accommodations are basic, but I think it’s the best way to truly soak up the atmosphere and increase your chances of spotting wildlife. Around the park, cozier hotels offer stays in charming settings.
I like entering Tayrona Park through the Calabazo entrance and hiking to Playa Brava, where I spend the night. It has a great vibe and a peaceful beach—I love it.
In the early morning, I head to Cabo San Juan, a stunning spot I enjoy before the tourists arrive. Then, I go to La Piscina for a swim and some snorkeling before leaving the park through El Zaino.
For an extra night, I choose the quiet eco-camp at Arrecifes.
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Beach
TPMT note: 8/10
PALOMINO
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 5/5
Between chilling and tubing.
With its growing chic hippie vibe, Palomino is the most renowned village on Colombia’s eastern Caribbean coast. It may have lost some of its original charm, but good hotels and restaurants make it a hotspot for young travelers—groups of friends and couples looking for a laid-back escape.
Days here drift by with tubing on the river, wellness treatments, walks on the beach, naps in a hammock, and cocktails. Forget about swimming, though—the sea is dangerous.
I like to arrive in Palomino in the morning to enjoy a tubing experience down the river. I soak up the lively village vibe in the early evening while sipping a drink. After a good night’s sleep, I continue to my next destination.
I also love to include Palomino in my itinerary when exploring the region. Its location makes it a perfect base to relax between multi-day excursions in the La Guajira desert or the Ciudad Perdida in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta.
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Palm trees
TPMT note: 8.5/10
Salento
Where: Coffee Region
Touristy: 5/5
A picturesque village and majestic wax palms.
The charming little village of Salento, located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, is a major tourist destination in Colombia due to its proximity to the iconic Cocora Valley, known for its wax palm trees.
For those who don’t want to walk too far, stunning viewpoints are easily accessible from the main entrance, while more experienced hikers can opt for longer, less crowded trails.
Coffee farms near Salento offer tours of their plantations and tasting experiences, perfect for lovers of this iconic Colombian brew.
The village and its surroundings provide a wide selection of beautiful accommodations.
I prefer arriving in Salento the evening before and booking a place in the village to head out early to explore the Cocora Valley. This way, I avoid the heavy tourist traffic and the frequent afternoon showers.
Once back from my hike, I wander through the village’s colorful streets and end my day playing Tejo, a traditional game with plenty of laughs and cold beers.
I love staying in Salento after or before a multi-day trek in Los Nevados Park, with a relaxing stop at one of the region’s hot springs.
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Jungle
TPMT note: 8.5/10
MINCA
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 5/5
A fusion of jungle ambiance with inviting comfort.
Nestled in lush surroundings, Minca boasts gorgeous ecolodges perfectly in tune with the environment, making it an ideal place to savor the serene jungle atmosphere and admire incredible views and sunsets over the Sierra Nevada.
Hikers will find easy-to-follow trails leading to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, while wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of bird species.
Foodies will love visiting the nearby coffee and chocolate plantations, and the village also has some pretty good food spots.
When in Minca, I like cooling off in a waterfall easily accessible from the village and visiting a coffee finca. As the day winds down, I watch the sunset from the Casa Loma bar viewpoint in the village before savoring a hearty sancocho.
My favorite part is taking a break in Minca, enjoying the fresh mountain air after a beach getaway. The quiet and comfort of an ecolodge nestled in the Sierra Nevada, surrounded by birds, is truly special. Relaxing in a hot tub on your terrace as the sun sets over the jungle is an experience you’ll never forget.
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WHERE IN COLOMBIA: ROMANTIC PLACES
The best places to visit in Colombia for couples
Secluded beach
TPMT note: 10/10
GUACHALITO
Where: Pacific
Touristy: 2.5/5
Endless, striking black sand beaches in the heart of untouched wilderness.
Nothing is more romantic for me than walking along a long black sand beach, lapped by the Pacific waves and bordered by lush jungle, with barely another soul in sight.
Guachalito is my favorite beach in this little-visited part of Colombia.
Its cozy yet simple ecolodges offer an idyllic natural setting for a romantic and all-inclusive couple retreat far from everything.
You can enjoy amazing experiences like discovering waterfalls, diving, fishing, or even watching whales pass by from the doorstep of your cabin—if you visit during the right season.
Guachalito is a hidden paradise you have to earn, and that’s why I like to take my time. I never spend less than five days on the Pacific coast.
I stay at a peaceful ecolodge, guided by my hosts’ wise recommendations and my own instincts. My days revolve around jungle hikes, surf lessons, swimming, whale watching, or pure relaxation.
Trust me, even outside of whale season, a few days in this enchanting environment is an unforgettable, magical experience.
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Local life
TPMT note: 10/10
Barichara
Where: Santander
Touristy: 3.5/5
A beautiful colonial town brimming with local craftsmen.
Perched on the mountainside with its whitewashed houses and steep streets paved with large ochre stone cobblestones, the village of Barichara is like a postcard that comes to life.
Its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and thriving artisanal crafts, maintaining a local tradition, create a timeless, romantic atmosphere.
With its narrow streets offering breathtaking views of the village and valley, charming hotels, and intimate restaurants, Barichara is an invitation to slow living—a true gem for a lovers’ escape.
In Barichara, the day flows smoothly in the peaceful scenery of white and ochre. Aleja and I, hand in hand, wander leisurely through the streets, climbing to a viewpoint for a stunning view of the village and its surroundings.
We step inside a church, browse through shops and artisan workshops, and enjoy coffee with a sugary delight.
Our day out of time ends with the sun’s magic dipping behind the Chicamocha Canyon from a belvedere.
I also love savoring Barichara’s slow pace of life after rafting near San Gil.
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By the pool
TPMT note: 8.5/10
Santa Fe de Antioquia
Where: Antioquia
Touristy: 4/5
Beautiful colonial alleys and poolside relaxation.
With its colonial heritage and former status as Antioquia’s capital, Santa Fé de Antioquia has preserved all its grandeur and charm.
The cobbled streets, the whitewashed houses with flowered balconies and hidden patios, the magnificently preserved buildings, the splendid churches, and the shaded squares hosting colorful markets invite you to wander at a slow pace.
With its boutique hotels featuring secret swimming pools and various great dining spots, the town is an ideal destination for a romantic escape.
I love getting up early to enjoy the city before the tourist rush. I stroll through the streets and cross the vast Plaza Mayor Bolívar, facing the majestic Cathedral with its white walls.
I hop in a tuk-tuk that takes me to the Puente Occidental, an astonishing suspension bridge over the Cauca River. I cross it on foot, my tuk-tuk is waiting for me on the other side.
A nap is a must in the afternoon—the heat is overwhelming. I relax by the pool at my hotel before heading out again as night falls to enjoy a cold beer in the lively downtown.
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Turquoise sea
TPMT note: 9/10
San Bernardo Islands
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 4/5
Beautiful islands with secluded beach hotels.
Less known than the Rosario Islands, the San Bernardo Islands, with their dreamy beaches and turquoise waters, offer a truly enchanting setting for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and sipping cocktails on your hotel’s private beach.
The archipelago’s two main islands, Isla Múcura and Isla Tintipán, are home to charming hotels in an idyllic environment. While they may be expensive, they offer the ideal spot for a romantic escape to paradise.
My day on the San Bernardo Islands is all about relaxing—lounging on my hotel’s beach, reading with fresh fruit juice in hand, taking a dip to cool off, and enjoying seafood.
For some adventure, I borrow a kayak to explore the mangroves around Isla Tintipán and watch the birds, or I put on my mask to explore the coral reef.
After admiring the sunset with my feet in the water at nightfall, I go swimming among the bioluminescent plankton.
I prefer staying two nights to enjoy the islands’ relaxing vibe better.
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Sleeping Beauty
TPMT note: 9/10
Mompox
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 3/5
A hidden colonial gem untouched by mass tourism.
Nestled between two bends of the Magdalena River, Mompox is a hidden gem of Spanish colonial architecture.
With its richly adorned buildings and homes, churches, patios, sculpted galleries, goldsmith workshops, and riverbanks, the town seems to sleep, exuding an air of forgotten grandeur, creating a profoundly romantic and serene atmosphere.
More discreet and less touristy than Cartagena, its stunning colonial houses, converted into cozy and affordable hotels, make Mompox a dreamy destination for a lovers’ haven.
I love wandering through the historic center with my camera; the scenery is perfect for a romantic photo shoot. I especially like to admire the colonial rooftops from the Santa Barbara Church bell tower.
Then, I walk along the promenade by the river and sit at a terrace to savor a coffee and a pastry. In the afternoon, I attend a filigree workshop, where a master jeweler teaches me how to patiently weave silver threads to craft my own piece of jewelry.
Or I board a boat to explore the wide marsh, watch the birds, and enjoy my guide’s stories before returning at sunset.
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WHERE IN COLOMBIA: Beautiful places in nature
The most stunning places to explore in Colombia
Indiana Jones
TPMT note: 10/10
Cerros de Mavecure
Where: Amazon Gateway
Touristy: 0.5/5
Where are the dinosaurs?
Imagine three towering black granite hills with steep, barren slopes rising above the jungle. This awe-inspiring scene suddenly appears after a three-hour boat ride down a bend of the Inírida River.
Here, the raw power and magic of nature burst into view.
Discovering Mavecure is also about immersing yourself in a new culture, sharing in daily life, swimming in the red waters of a river, relaxing on a white sand beach, exploring the forest, and sailing to the point where three rivers meet the Orinoco in a stunning array of colors. It’s about spotting birds and dolphins.
Reaching the Cerros de Mavecure is quite an expedition, so staying 4 nights is best.
I begin with a cultural tour, connecting with the local indigenous communities and discovering their surroundings and customs.
The second day includes a boat trip to the Estrella Fluvial, the meeting point with the Orinoco River, and then we head to the Cerros.
At 3:30 a.m., we hike up Cerro Mavecure in darkness; guided by headlamps, I watch the sunrise over an incredible landscape. The afternoon is for relaxing and a cooking class.
I explore the jungle the next day, cooling off in the reddish river before ending with sunset and local legends.
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Desert trip
TPMT note: 9/10
La GUAJIRA
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 3.5/5
Breathtaking desert scenery in the land of the Wayuu.
Exploring the desert of La Guajira is like stepping into a living painting where ochre and turquoise blend together.
Astonishing landscapes of dunes diving into the Caribbean Sea, a surprising oasis in the heart of the desert, barely marked paths that only jeeps can navigate, harsh and wild nature, a proud people safeguarding a sacred land, and sunsets like nowhere else—La Guajira is a true gift for adventurous souls.
And for kitesurfers, the area offers world-famous spots with perfect weather conditions in an exceptional environment.
The La Guajira Desert is full of surprises, so I opt for a tour to make the most of it.
I leave Riohacha for Punta Gallinas, stopping at the stunning Taroa dunes for a sandboarding ride to the sea. I then end the day at South America’s northernmost point.
The next day, I explore Macuira Park, a green oasis in the desert, and fall asleep in my chinchorro after dancing with the Wayuu and hearing their stories.
I visit Cabo de La Vela on day three for breathtaking views and sunsets.
The final day includes stops at beautiful beaches, a swim, and a delicious local lunch before returning to Riohacha.
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Colorful river
TPMT note: 10/10
Caño Cristales
Where: Llanos
Touristy: 3/5
Nature is an artist on ecstasy.
Caño Cristales‘ international reputation is well deserved! Under the sun, its waters become a vibrant explosion of colors, earning it the nickname of the rainbow river.
This unique natural phenomenon is incredibly photogenic and can only be seen between June and November.
The river winds through the remote La Macarena National Park, a fabulous landscape of canyons, remarkable rock formations, forests, waterfalls, natural pools, and extraordinary viewpoints, all brimming with biodiversity and accessible via marked trails.
To give myself an extra day to appreciate the Caño Cristales phenomenon fully, I prefer a 4-day tour. (Some agencies offer 3-day trips, but that’s just not enough!)
As soon as I arrive in La Macarena, I hop on a boat along the Guayabero River to reach a stunning viewpoint overlooking the savanna, followed by a walk to Caño Cristalitos with its colorful waters – a perfect appetizer and glimpse of the scenery to come.
The next day is all about discovering the incredible, colorful river. Canoeing, 4×4 rides, and a 7-9 km hike leave me in awe of the river’s infinite palette of hues shimmering under the sun.
On the third day, I choose to drift down the Guayabero River to a fabulous canyon with steep cliffs draped in lush vegetation and powerful rapids. My adventure continues to Ciudad de Piedra, where breathtaking rock formations await.
On the morning of my last day, I watch the sunrise from a lookout point and take one final dip in a natural pool before returning to La Macarena.
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Beach town
TPMT note: 9.5/10
Sapzurro
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 3/5
A serene coastal village hidden deep within the Darien Gap.
Going to Sapzurro feels like venturing to the end of the world. This peaceful spot, hidden between the Caribbean and the Pacific, can only be reached by boat or after a 1.5-hour hike from Capurgana.
Nestled in a large bay with calm waters, Sapzurro is a paradise for those seeking relaxation. Its idyllic beaches and turquoise waters are surrounded by lush vegetation.
With little to no phone service, frequent power outages, and no tuk-tuk or motorbikes, you leave the modern world behind and learn to live slower between swimming and snorkeling.
When I visit Sapzurro, I start my day by walking along the main beach, swimming in the sheltered waters, and making homemade ice cream.
If the sea is calm, I follow the coastal path through the jungle to Playa Tiburón for snorkeling. A cold beer at the local bar wraps it up. Or I go diving.
Back in the village, I enjoy grilled fish for lunch. In the late afternoon, I climb the 300 steps at the end of the beach to reach a stunning viewpoint over the bay. A simple border post marks my arrival in Panama. Below is the breathtaking Playa de la Miel, with white sand, turquoise waters lined, and palm trees.
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Best island
TPMT note: 10/10
Providencia
Where: Caribbean
Touristy: 3/5
An untouched paradise surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
Providencia is a remote island in the Caribbean Sea, located off the coast of Nicaragua. The best way to get there is by a quick flight from the more popular San Andrés island.
With its preserved mountainous landscapes, offering stunning viewpoints reachable by foot or on horseback, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters rich in marine life, this serene haven is a paradise for nature lovers.
It’s home to fantastic diving and snorkeling spots, and is one of Colombia’s most beautiful islands.
Early in the morning, I escape the heat by hiking up to El Pico, the island’s highest point, where I take in the stunning views and capture some amazing photos. Afterward, I cross the Puente de los Enamorados (Lovers’ Bridge) at lunch, which links Providencia to the smaller and even more remote Santa Catalina, where I find a hidden restaurant nestled among the palm trees.
In the afternoon, I explore the island by golf cart, searching for a secluded beach and a peaceful spot for a nap. Later, I take a small boat to Cayo Cangrejo, a tiny isle, for some snorkeling. I explore the coral reef surrounding it and soak in the view from the lookout before returning.
I also highly recommend getting your open water diving certification and booking a few dives in these crystal-clear waters, famously known as the Sea of Seven Colors.
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Favorite experiences in Colombia
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Cartagena: Rent a boat to explore the Rosario Islands 1d
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Leticia: the Amazon from a jungle ecolodge, comfort option 5d
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Stay in the world's largest forest and discover its wonders and diversity.
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The Cerros de Mavecure and Its Unforgettable Landscapes 5d
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Imagine three massive hills rising from the ground in the middle of a vast jungle plain.
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Yopal : Safari in los Llanos from a nature reserve 4d
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Caño Cristales: discover the famous rainbow river - group option 4d
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Los Nevados: Santa Isabel glacier ascent 3D
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Guachalito: Whale watching and peaceful ecolodge 4d
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Picture yourself observing the whales' ballet from an ecolodge on a secluded beach.
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