6 Things To Do In Colombia

Cities To Visit In Colombia

Colombia is a diverse and vibrant country located in South America that has become an increasingly popular destination for American travelers, especially since the pandemic. Known as the “gateway to South America,” Colombia’s natural landscapes are magnificent and its cultural heritage is as rich as the day is long, possibly even more so. The people of Colombia are warm, welcoming, and super helpful which is good news for first-time visitors.

When it comes to culture, the spirit of Colombia is reflected in its food, music, and traditions. It is also home to several indigenous communities that have their own unique customs and languages.

Although the country was once infamous for political- and drug-related violence, Colombia has worked diligently to turn things around. That said, it’s still important to be aware of certain aspects of the country to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Colombia has made significant progress in terms of security in recent years, but there are still some areas that should be avoided due to the risk of violence and crime.

Overall, tourists visiting Colombia should approach their trip with an open mind and a sense of adventure, while also being mindful of the potential risks and taking appropriate precautions.

Listed below are several of the most popular cities you’ll hear people talk about when thinking of Colombia.

Bogotá

With a population of 8 million, Colombia’s capital and largest city, Bogotá, is a sprawling metropolis with a mix of modern amenities and historical attractions. While the city is a bit gritty and crowded in certain areas, it’s still worth visiting at least once. If you’re looking for bustling Latin American city vibes, Bogotá is the city for you.

Visitors can explore colonial-era architecture in the historic La Candelaria district or enjoy the city’s thriving arts and culture scene. Colorful murals adorn the walls of buildings all over the city, which is perfect for a street art tour.

The nearby Monserrate mountain delivers stunning views of the city if you’re up for the hike. Be mindful, however, that the hike can take between 2-4 hours and you can only enter the trail in the morning so plan accordingly.

Medellin

Medellin is Colombia’s second-largest city, with 2.6 million residents. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its pleasant year-round weather, Medellín has undergone a major transformation in recent years. It is now considered one of the most innovative and dynamic cities in Latin America. It also ranks as one of the best places for digital nomads to temporarily call home.

Medellín is located in the Aburrá Valley and surrounded by the Andes Mountains on all sides. No matter where you are in the city, you can’t miss the lush green landscape. Having spent a month here, I fall in love with it all over again just thinking about it.

Visitors can take a ride on the city’s famous cable car system or visit the nearby coffee-growing region. One of my favorite activities here was our visit to Guatape, but we’ll talk more about that later.

Tourist Tip: Contrary to popular opinion, many Colombians are not proud of their affiliation with the infamous Pablo Escobar. Although you can easily find Pablo Escobar tours, the majority of locals don’t want to be reminded of this dark time in their country’s history. There’s a small minority of people who still respect Escobar, but most locals aren’t interested in discussing your interest in the drug lord. In other words, skip the Escobar talk and get to know Medellin and Colombia for yourself.

Cartagena

Cartagena’s population is modest at 1 million residents when compared to other destinations in Colombia. Located on the country’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a picturesque city with a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. When most people think of the colorful aesthetic of Colombia, they’re usually thinking of Cartegena, whether they know it or not.

Take a stroll through the city’s charming Old Town, swim in the crater of El Totumo volcano, or relax on one of several nearby beaches and islands.

Although I’m rarely a fan of speaking negatively about a destination, as a major tourist city, Cartagena has an unfortunate reputation for tourist-targeted pickpocketing and bag snatching. However, don’t count this city out as that could happen anywhere.

Cali

Cali is the “Salsa Capital of the World,” and is a lively and energetic city with a strong cultural identity. Located in southwest Colombia, Cali’s population of 2.2 million is a blend of Indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions.

Dance your heart out in one of the city’s many salsa clubs, explore museums and historical sites, or take a trip to nearby natural attractions like the Farallones de Cali National Park. The city also has its version of Brazil’s famous Christ the Redeemer statue – El Cristo Rey.

While the city may not have as many attractions as other cities in Colombia, Cali still has plenty to keep you entertained during your stay. If you’re a fan of ornate churches, be sure to Ermita Church in Cali’s city center.

These are just a few examples of the major cities in Colombia, each with its own unique character and attractions.