COLOMBIA
One of the most diverse and scenic destinations in South America
COLOMBIA
One of the most diverse and scenic destinations in South America is the country of Colombia. Boasting everything from beaches to mountains to swamps surrounding the Amazon River, Colombia truly has it all. In this land of contrasts, you will encounter snow-capped Andean Peaks , tropical Amazonian jungles , turquoise Caribbean coasts, and two sun-kissed deserts. You will also find a host of spectacular attractions at the places in between, from the bustling cities of Cartagena and Medellin to the quiet colonial villages of Salento and Mompox.
Above all else, the famous Colombian hospitality will undoubtedly find you coming back for more. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Colombia.
Colombia is constantly growing as a medical destination. The government is investing to expand the market taking actions to elevate the country in this tourism field. Now Colombia is reaping the benefits of its investments, as it is ranked as 22nd best healthcare system according to the World Health Organization. This is the highest position in Latin America. Colombia is also home to 40% of the top clinics and hospitals in Latin America. Four institutions are accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) that recognizes international standards.
El Eje Cafetero, is a geographic, cultural, economic and ecological region of Colombia located in the departments of Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío, the northern region of the Cauca Valley, and the northwestern region of Tolima and the capital cities of the first three departments mentioned (Manizales, Pereira and Armenia, respectively). This region was a notable producer of rubber, at the beginning of the 20th century but later it was dedicated to coffee. The Coffee Triangle, which should not be confused with the Coffee Region, is a region between the basins of the Campoalegre, Otún and La Vieja rivers. Due to the cultural importance and the cultural landscape of the Coffee Region, Unesco proceeded to declare part of this area as a World Heritage Site in 2011, in order to recognize the landscape and the most representative culture of that coffee region, to which He called it the Coffee Cultural Landscape.
English pirates, Dutch smugglers and Spanish pearl hunters have all tried to conquer the Guajira Peninsula – a vast swath of barren sea and sand that is Colombia's northernmost point – but none were able to overcome the indigenous Wayuu people, who wisely traded with, or waged war upon, the invaders. The Wayuu's complex and autonomous political and economic structures meant they were ready to mount a staunch defense of their lands – on horseback and with firearms.
Founded in 1540 on the banks of the River Magdalena, Mompox played a key role in the Spanish colonization of northern South America. From the 16th to the 19th century the city developed parallel to the river, with the main street acting as a dyke. The historic center has preserved the harmony and unity of the urban landscape. Most of the buildings are still used for their original purposes, providing an exceptional picture of what a Spanish colonial city was like.
Providencia, 90km north of San Andrés, is a wonderfully remote and traditional Caribbean island with breathtaking scenery, gorgeous golden-sand beaches, friendly locals and superb diving.
Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is a magical slice of Colombia's Caribbean coast, with stunning stretches of golden sandy beach backed by coconut palms and thick rainforest. Behind it all rise the steep hillsides of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's highest coastal mountain range. The park stretches along the coast from the Bahía de Taganga near Santa Marta to the mouth of the Río Piedras, 35km east, and covers some 12,000 hectares of land and 3000 hectares of coral-rich sea.
You've seen it on TV and in the movies, and now's your chance to explore the real Colombia beyond the big screen. You'll get opportunity to enjoy the Lost City of Teyuna, where you're rewarded with an incredible view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
