12 Amazingly Beautiful Places in Colombia to Visit (Don’t Miss #5)

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The first time I landed in Colombia, everyone warned me to be careful. Now I can’t stop telling people to book a ticket here. This country serves up the best coffee I’ve ever had, beaches that make the Caribbean look boring, and mountains that’ll make your legs burn and your heart happy.

From Medellín’s perfect weather to the rainbow river that looks photoshopped, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Colombia. Here are 12 spots that prove why this country deserves way more hype than it gets.

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Colombia

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Colombian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Bogotá for just $250 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by eating at local menú del día spots, where a complete lunch with soup, main course, drink, and dessert costs around 12,000-18,000 pesos ($3-5). Local markets like Paloquemao in Bogotá offer fresh fruit and snacks at great prices.
• Transport: Use TransMilenio in Bogotá (get a Tu Llave card) or Metro in Medellín. For intercity travel, book overnight buses through websites like Redbus – you’ll save on both transport and a night’s accommodation. Between using public transport and avoiding tourist taxis, this has saved me hundreds of thousands of pesos on each trip.

Colombia is already quite affordable, especially once you leave the upscale areas of major cities. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this diverse country for even less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Colombia:

1. Cartagena

• 📍 Location: Northern Colombia, Caribbean Coast
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏰, architecture fans 🏛️, beach lovers 🏖️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the walled Old Town, day trip to Rosario Islands, sunset at Café del Mar
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for dry, sunny days and vibrant city life ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa San Agustín – Upscale boutique hotel with colonial charm in the heart of Old Town

Cartagena is the kind of place that instantly pulls you in with its color, energy, and tropical heat. The historic Old Town, wrapped in centuries-old walls, is filled with cobblestone streets, bougainvillea-covered balconies, and plazas where live music spills into the night air. It feels like walking through a painting, one that’s alive with rhythm and history.

Just outside the city, the Rosario Islands offer white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water for snorkeling and day trips. It is an easy escape if you need a break from the city’s buzz but still want sunshine and sea breeze.

What makes Cartagena so magnetic is the blend of old and new. Street vendors sell fresh fruit by colonial cathedrals while rooftop bars serve cocktails above centuries-old fortresses. It is bold, beautiful, and full of character, making it one of the most unforgettable spots in Colombia.

• Read next: Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites

2. Medellín

• 📍 Location: Aburrá Valley, Antioquia Department
• 🏆 Best For: Urban explorers 🌆, art lovers 🎨, transformation stories 📖
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Comuna 13, riding the Metrocable, visiting Parque Arví
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for festivals and dry, spring-like weather 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: 23 Hotel Medellín – Stylish stay with rooftop views near top cultural spots

Medellín is one of Colombia’s most inspiring cities. Set in a lush valley and surrounded by mountains, it has shaken off its dark past to become a vibrant hub of creativity and progress. The nickname “City of Eternal Spring” fits perfectly, thanks to its mild climate and year-round greenery.

Comuna 13 is a must-see, not just for its powerful street art and escalator system, but for the story it tells about resilience and community strength. You’ll find food stalls, dance performances, and local guides sharing how their neighborhood transformed over the years.

The city’s metro and cable cars connect neighborhoods to nature, making it easy to explore everything from busy markets to quiet hillside parks. With its mix of innovation, hospitality, and street-level energy, Medellín feels both cutting-edge and deeply personal. It is one of the best places to really connect with modern Colombian culture.

3. Tayrona National Park

• 📍 Location: Caribbean Coast, Magdalena Department
• 🏆 Best For: Beach hikers 🏝️, nature lovers 🌿, off-the-grid travelers 🏕️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming at Cabo San Juan, hiking through rainforest trails, visiting Pueblito ruins
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for dry trails and calm sea conditions 🏞️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ecohabs Tayrona – Eco-friendly bungalows tucked between jungle and sea

Tayrona National Park is where Colombia’s coastline goes wild in the best way. Picture dense jungle spilling out onto golden beaches, with trails that snake through the forest past monkeys, parrots, and ancient ruins. It is one of the few places where you can hike, swim, and stargaze without ever leaving the park.

The most iconic spot is Cabo San Juan, a double beach flanked by rocky cliffs and topped with a lookout hut that offers views worth the climb. You can camp here or stay in eco-lodges surrounded by nature.

The park also holds cultural significance, with ties to the ancient Tairona civilization. A short trek inland leads to the remains of Pueblito, offering a glimpse into Colombia’s indigenous past. If you’re into beach adventures with a wild, untouched feel, Tayrona delivers a unique mix of nature and history you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Bogotá

• 📍 Location: Central Colombia, Andes Mountains
•  🏆 Best For: Culture seekers 🎭, city explorers 🧭, museum lovers 🏺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through La Candelaria, visiting the Gold Museum, riding the cable car to Monserrate
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for sunnier skies and fewer showers ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Legado – Chic boutique hotel with a cozy, artsy vibe in a quiet neighborhood

Bogotá sits high in the Andes and gives you a bit of everything. It blends colonial charm with urban sprawl, offering cobblestone streets, colorful murals, and bustling neighborhoods all in one place. The altitude might slow you down at first, but there’s so much to explore that you’ll quickly get swept up in it.

La Candelaria, the city’s historic center, feels like an open-air museum with its street art, colonial architecture, and cafés tucked into old mansions. A ride up Monserrate gives you sweeping views of the whole city below.

You’ll also find world-class museums here, from the Gold Museum’s ancient artifacts to the quirky collections in the Botero Museum. Bogotá balances tradition with modern creativity and is the kind of city where you can go from salsa dancing to gallery-hopping in one day. It is a place that grows on you with every step.

• Read next: Bogotá Travel Guide

5. Salento and the Coffee Region

• 📍 Location: Quindío Department, Central Colombia
• 🏆 Best For: Coffee fans ☕, mountain lovers 🏞️, small town travelers 🚶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking in Cocora Valley, touring coffee farms, browsing crafts on Calle Real
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for dry hiking trails and sunny afternoons 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Salento Real – Charming hillside hotel with colorful balconies and mountain views

Salento is the poster town for Colombia’s coffee region. Surrounded by green hills and misty valleys, it is the kind of place where time slows down. You can start your day with locally brewed coffee and end it watching the clouds roll over the Andes from a quiet viewpoint.

Calle Real, the main street, is lined with shops selling handmade goods and bright wooden buildings that make every corner feel photo-worthy. From town, you can hike or horseback ride into Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm trees that define this part of Colombia.

Salento is also a great base for coffee tours where you can learn how beans are grown, roasted, and brewed. The vibe is chill and friendly, perfect for travelers who want to unplug without going too far off the grid. It is cozy, scenic, and full of heart.

6. San Agustín Archaeological Park

• 📍 Location: Huila Department, Southern Colombia
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🗿, archaeology fans 🧭, cultural travelers 🎒
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring ancient stone statues, visiting Fuente de Lavapatas, horseback riding to El Tablón
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for dry weather and clearer trails ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Terrazas de San Agustín – Cozy hillside hotel with scenic views and easy park access

San Agustín Archaeological Park is one of the most fascinating places in Colombia if you love ancient mysteries. Set in the green hills of southern Colombia, the park is home to more than 500 stone statues scattered across rolling terrain. These carvings, some more than 2,000 years old, depict warriors, animals, and deities from a civilization still shrouded in mystery.

Walking through the park feels like stepping into a forgotten world. You’ll come across ceremonial mounds, tombs, and sacred rock carvings all surrounded by wild nature. It is quiet, peaceful, and full of questions that still puzzle historians.

Beyond the main park, horseback riding to nearby sites like La Chaquira or El Tablón gives you even more insight into the region’s cultural legacy. If you’re up for combining a history lesson with epic landscapes, San Agustín will not disappoint.

7. Guatapé

• 📍 Location: Antioquia Department, near Medellín
• 🏆 Best For: Color lovers 🎨, day-trippers 🚌, nature seekers 🌄
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing El Peñol Rock, walking colorful streets, boat rides on the reservoir
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for sunshine and clear views ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Zocalo Campestre – Bright, cozy hotel with garden views and easy access to town

Guatapé might be the most colorful town in Colombia. Every building in the main village is painted in bold shades of blue, yellow, green, and pink, each decorated with zócalos—detailed bas-relief panels showing local life and symbols. Walking around here feels like stepping into a storybook with a Latin beat.

The big showstopper is El Peñol Rock, a massive granite monolith with 659 steps to the top. The climb is worth every bit of effort, since the panoramic view of the lakes and islands below is absolutely unreal.

After the climb, grab a drink by the waterfront or hop on a boat to explore the surrounding reservoir. Guatapé is easy to visit on a day trip from Medellín, but staying overnight gives you time to enjoy the quieter mornings and golden hour light. It is fun, vibrant, and full of energy.

8. Popayán

• 📍 Location: Cauca Department, Southwestern Colombia
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, foodies 🍲, colonial architecture fans 🏘️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through the White City, visiting Parque Caldas, tasting traditional dishes like empanadas de pipián
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for Holy Week and cultural festivals 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Dann Monasterio – Restored monastery with elegant rooms in the heart of the old town

Popayán is a city that wears its history proudly. Nicknamed the White City, it is full of whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old churches that give it a peaceful, timeless feel. The historic center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.

The city’s culinary scene is also a major draw. Recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Popayán is a great place to dive into traditional Colombian food. Street vendors and restaurants alike serve up local favorites with recipes passed down through generations.

If your trip falls during Semana Santa, you’ll witness some of the most important religious processions in Latin America. Even outside of festival season, the city’s calm pace and classic charm offer a refreshing break from busier destinations. Popayán is perfect for travelers who want to slow down and soak in Colombia’s rich past.

9. Villa de Leyva

• 📍 Location: Boyacá Department, Eastern Andes
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🕰️, architecture fans 🏡, slow travelers 🧳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling around Plaza Mayor, exploring colonial churches, visiting Pozos Azules
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for dry weather and fewer crowds ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Campanario de la Villa – Charming colonial-style hotel just steps from the main square

Villa de Leyva feels like it has been frozen in time. With its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and red-tiled roofs, it is one of Colombia’s most beautiful and best-preserved colonial towns. The main square, Plaza Mayor, is massive and often filled with locals, street performers, and weekend markets.

There’s something slow and peaceful about this place. You can spend your day exploring churches, sipping coffee in quiet courtyards, or browsing through local artisan shops. Just outside town, natural sights like Pozos Azules and the nearby dinosaur park add a bit of adventure to the relaxed vibe.

This is a favorite weekend getaway for people from Bogotá, but it still holds onto its small-town charm. Villa de Leyva is ideal for travelers who want to unwind, soak in history, and take life one cobblestone at a time.

10. Mompox

• 📍 Location: Bolívar Department, Northern Colombia
• 🏆 Best For: Colonial architecture lovers 🕍, history buffs 📖, peaceful travelers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling riverside streets, visiting Santa Barbara Church, taking a sunset boat ride
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for dry weather and comfortable walks ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Amarilla – Elegant riverside hotel with colonial charm and relaxed atmosphere

Mompox feels like a storybook town untouched by time. Located along the Magdalena River, it is filled with well-preserved colonial buildings, tree-shaded plazas, and churches that reflect centuries of history. The streets are calm and quiet, giving the town a dreamlike atmosphere that makes every stroll feel special.

You can explore its cobbled alleys, stop by artisan workshops, or sit in a shady plaza watching the river drift by. The highlight is Santa Barbara Church, known for its unique bell tower and pastel-colored façade. It offers great views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

At sunset, hop on a boat for a gentle cruise along the river while golden light reflects off the white buildings. Mompox is not packed with tourists, and that’s what makes it magical. It is peaceful, cultural, and a perfect place to slow down and reset during your Colombian journey.

11. San Andrés and Providencia Islands

• 📍 Location: Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Nicaragua
• 🏆 Best For: Beachgoers 🏖️, divers 🤿, island hoppers 🛥️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the Sea of Seven Colors, snorkeling at McBean Lagoon, relaxing on South West Bay Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to May for sunshine and clear waters 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Deep Blue Hotel – Tranquil boutique hotel with ocean views on Providencia Island

San Andrés and Providencia feel like two sides of the same tropical coin. San Andrés is more developed, with lively beach scenes, shopping areas, and plenty of water sports. It is home to the “Sea of Seven Colors,” a brilliant stretch of ocean that shifts from turquoise to deep blue depending on the light.

Providencia offers something quieter and more intimate. With coral reefs, lush hills, and a laid-back vibe, it is perfect for nature lovers and couples looking to escape the crowds. McBean Lagoon is a highlight for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish and rays.

These islands blend Caribbean culture with Colombian charm. From reggae tunes and fresh seafood to warm, welcoming locals, every part of your stay feels full of flavor. Whether you stay on one island or visit both, this destination is a tropical escape worth every minute.

12. Tatacoa Desert

• 📍 Location: Huila Department, near Neiva
• 🏆 Best For: Stargazers 🌌, hikers 🥾, desert explorers 🏜️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking through red and gray canyons, visiting the observatory, watching sunset over the desert
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for clear skies and epic night views ✨
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Boutique El Portal del Desierto – Simple desert-style stay with stargazing views near the observatory

Tatacoa Desert flips Colombia’s green image on its head. Instead of rainforest and mountains, you’ll find rusty red canyons, gray ridges, and cracked earth that looks like another planet. It is not a true desert, but a tropical dry forest that offers wide-open views and quiet trails far from city life.

The landscape constantly shifts in color and texture as you walk. You can hike through the ochre-red labyrinth of Cuzco or the moon-like terrain of Los Hoyos. There are also natural pools where you can cool off after trekking in the sun.

At night, the sky opens up completely. Tatacoa is one of the best places in Colombia for stargazing, with little light pollution and a local observatory offering nightly telescope sessions. This desert shows off a different kind of beauty and is perfect if you’re looking to disconnect and wander through something truly unique.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Colombia

Seeking to broaden your understanding of the most scenic locations in Colombia? Here are some frequently asked questions I receive about the top attractions and activities in Colombia.

What is the best time to visit Colombia?

Colombia is a year-round destination, thanks to its equatorial location. However, the dry season is between December and March. While July and August, is often considered the best time to visit, especially for outdoor activities.

What is the nicest part of Colombia?

Colombia is home to many beautiful regions. However, the region of Cartagena and the nearby Caribbean Coast is often celebrated for its enchanting combination of historical charm, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.

Cartagena’s walled Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful colonial buildings, cobbled streets, lively plazas, and an energetic nightlife. The nearby Rosario Islands offer white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.

Medellín, with its eternal spring-like weather, beautiful parks, and innovative public spaces, is another highly attractive part of Colombia. The Coffee Triangle, known for its lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and friendly locals, offers a uniquely Colombian experience.

In the end, the nicest part of Colombia will vary depending on what you’re looking for – whether it’s vibrant city life, historical charm, beach relaxation, or nature exploration.

Is Colombia safe for travelers?

Yes, Colombia is generally safe for travelers. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to exercise caution, stay informed about the local conditions, and follow safety guidelines. Some areas may still be off-limits due to past conflicts, so check travel advisories before your visit.

What is the currency in Colombia?

The Colombian Peso (COP) is the currency of Colombia. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist destinations. At the same time, it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller towns and local markets.

Do I need a visa to visit Colombia?

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European countries, do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, always check the current visa policies before traveling.

What languages are spoken in Colombia?

The official language of Colombia is Spanish. English is spoken in many tourist areas and hotels, but learning a few Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience.

What is the most beautiful city in Colombia?

Determining the most beautiful city in Colombia is subjective as it greatly depends on what you’re seeking in your travel experience. However, Cartagena is often lauded for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant colors, and charming streets, making it a top contender. Medellín is also known as “the city of eternal spring”. It is famous for its pleasant climate, lush landscapes, and innovative urban design.

What is the most beautiful small town in Colombia?

One of the most beautiful small towns in Colombia is Barichara. Nestled in the Andean region, Barichara offers well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming ambiance.

The town’s whitewashed buildings, terracotta roofs, and wooden balconies adorned with blooming flowers create a picturesque setting that seems frozen in time. The calming pace of life, combined with the stunning views of the surrounding Suarez Canyon, makes Barichara a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Barichara is also a hub for artists and craftsmen, and visitors can explore various workshops and galleries showcasing local art. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby hiking trails, such as the historic Camino Real, leading to the nearby town of Guane.

The town’s unique blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and cultural richness makes Barichara a must-visit destination in Colombia, often referred to as the prettiest town in Colombia.

What is the most visited place in Colombia?

Cartagena, with its well-preserved historical center and Caribbean charm, is one of the most visited places in Colombia. However, the capital city of Bogotá, with its rich history, cultural institutions, and vibrant nightlife, also attracts a significant number of visitors. Other notable destinations include Medellín, the Coffee Cultural Landscape, and the beautiful Caribbean islands of San Andrés and Providencia.

What is the most colorful place in Colombia?

The town of Guatapé is often cited as one of the most colorful places in Colombia. Known for its vibrant buildings, each adorned with bright colors and decorative panels called “zócalos,” Guatapé is a feast for the eyes.

The zócalos are unique to Guatapé and depict various aspects of Colombian culture, history, and daily life. They give the town a distinctive and cheerful appearance that delights visitors.

Situated near Medellín, Guatapé is also famous for the massive rock formation called La Piedra del Peñol. This granite rock towers over the landscape and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and islands from its summit.

Whether exploring the lively streets or taking in the panoramic vistas from La Piedra, Guatapé offers an enchanting and colorful experience that stands out in Colombia’s diverse landscape.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Colombia

Colombia, with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural history, and diverse ecosystems, offers an unrivaled travel experience that caters to every kind of traveler. From the coffee-infused hills of the Coffee Cultural Landscape to the sun-soaked beaches of San Andrés and Providencia Islands, the colonial charm of cities like Cartagena and Mompox, or the lunar landscapes of the Tatacoa Desert, Colombia is brimming with belleza (beauty) at every turn.

In each of these most beautiful places in Colombia, you will find a warm and welcoming people, ready to share the riches of their homeland with you. So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, a culinary explorer, or someone who loves to bask in the vibrant city life, Colombia has something for you.

As you plan your Colombian adventure, remember that every corner of this country holds a surprise, waiting to be discovered. The destinations listed here are only the starting points. The most beautiful places in Colombia are often the ones you stumble upon while losing yourself in its diverse landscapes and cultures.

Visiting Colombia is more than just a journey; it’s a sensory experience that will leave you yearning for more. So pack your bags, embark on this exciting journey, and let Colombia surprise you with its endless magic and charm.