Ibagué isn’t on the traditional tourist trail through Colombia, but this small and friendly city is set amongst brilliant natural surroundings and it’s a nice stop between Bogotá and Salento. Many visitors come to trek in El Nevado del Tolima National Park or venture to the Combeima Canyon. But within Ibagué, the capital city of …
Founded by the Spanish in 1525, Santa Marta is one of the oldest permanent cities in the Americas and it’s got colonial architecture, a whitewashed cathedral, and endless opportunities to explore nature within its reach. Though the city is a bit gritty, it’s worth visiting for the history, waterfront, and vibrant street food scene. There’s …
One of the capital cities of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, Pereira is set amongst rolling hills and green valleys on the edge of the Andes. With warm weather year round and immense biodiversity in the surrounding landscapes, it’s the perfect city for exploring nature as well as the local coffee plantations. There are mountains to climb, …
Most people travel to Villavicencio for a taste of the Llanero culture. This city is the gateway to Colombia’s plains, or Los Llanos, which was previously off the tourist trail due to security concerns. Now safe once more, Villavicencio is a great place for exploring this rich cowboy culture, the wild natural surroundings, and the …
San Juan de Pasto, also known as “Pasto,” is the capital of the Nariño Department of Colombia, located in southwestern portion of the country. Though many tourists give it a miss, Pasto is in a prime location for exploring dramatic natural sites in the countryside like volcanoes, crater lakes, canyons, and the beautiful La Laguna …
Located in the Caribbean Sea, the island of San Andrés is closer to Nicaragua than it is to Colombia, but it’s still the perfect vacation from the mainland. An UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, this archipelago features beaches, cays, islets, and coral reefs filled with native flora and fauna. From mangrove trees to the waterfront promenade …
This is the adventure sports capital of Colombia, so expect to meet a lot of thrill-seeking travelers in the otherwise quiet town of San Gil. A pretty spot in the Department of Santander, the city is close to green mountains, rivers, trails, and the Chicamocha Canyon. It’s known throughout the country as the place to …
This laid back small town in Colombia is the most touristed spot in the Coffee Triangle. And between its colorfully painted facades and proximity to the postcard-perfect wax palms of the Cocora Valley, it’s no wonder. People flock here for chilled out vibes and the chance to experience the outdoors and local culture. From paragliding, …
Leticia is the main city in Colombia’s tiny sliver of the Amazon, sitting on the border with Peru and Brazil. The town is a melting pot of Colombians, people from neighboring countries, and indigenous Amazon communities. Though there’s not much to do in Leticia itself, it’s got a relaxed and tranquil vibe, the people are …
While many tourists overlook Popayán, this peaceful, charming city is filled with well-preserved colonial architecture and history to explore. The narrow cobblestone streets are a pleasure to walk around, the central plaza is lovely, and the range of gastronomy is pretty incredible for a town of its size. The historic whitewashed buildings of the center …