Colombia Travel Guide

Welcome to my travel guide featuring my favorite places to visit in Colombia. This guide includes detailed information and video links to help you explore some of the best attractions in the country. Whether you're interested in cultural sites, natural parks, or vibrant neighborhoods, you'll find plenty of options to consider. This guide was created by Luis Niño for Sonja Everson. Feel free to ask me any questions about any of these places.

Bogotá

• La Candelaria - Historic neighborhood with colonial buildings, museums, and cultural sites.
• Gold Museum - Houses one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
• Monserrate - A mountain offering panoramic views of the city, accessible by funicular or cable car.
• Botero Museum - Features works by the artist Fernando Botero and other international artists.
• Simón Bolívar Park - A large urban park with a lake, trails, and recreational areas.
• Bogotá Botanical Garden - The largest botanical garden in Colombia, showcasing a variety of native plants.
• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá - An underground church built within the tunnels of a salt mine.
• Jaime Duque Park - A theme park offering various attractions including a replica of the Taj Mahal and a zoo.
• Piscilago - A large water park featuring water slides, swimming pools, and a zoo.
• San Victorino - A bustling commercial area known for its markets and shopping.
• El Pasaje Rivas - A traditional marketplace with a variety of crafts, traditional clothing, and artisanal goods.
• La Plaza de Paloquemao - A famous market where visitors can try a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Medellín

• Comuna 13 - Known for its vibrant street art, escalators, and transformation tours.
• Botero Plaza - Public square featuring sculptures by the artist Fernando Botero.
• Medellín Metrocable - A cable car system offering scenic views of the city and connecting hillside neighborhoods.
• Parque Arví - An ecological nature reserve with hiking trails and picnic areas.
• Plaza Mayor - Convention and exhibition center hosting various events.

Cartagena

• Walled City - Historic area with colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
• Castillo San Felipe de Barajas - A fortress built by the Spanish for defense against pirates.
• Rosario Islands - An archipelago with beautiful beaches and coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
• Barú Island - Known for its stunning Playa Blanca beach, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Ideal for day trips and water activities.
• Getsemaní - A lively neighborhood known for its colorful murals, street art, and nightlife.
• Palace of the Inquisition - Museum showcasing the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena.

Santa Marta

• Tayrona National Park - A natural park with pristine beaches, hiking trails, and indigenous ruins.
• Ciudad Perdida - Ancient archaeological site accessible by a multi-day trek through the jungle.
• Rodadero Beach - Popular beach with restaurants, bars, and water sports.
• White Beach - Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
• Playa Cristal - Famous for its clear waters and stunning coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the natural beauty.
• Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino - Historical estate where Simon Bolivar spent his last days.
• Taganga - A fishing village known for its diving spots and relaxed atmosphere.
• Buritaca - A coastal town where the Buritaca River meets the Caribbean Sea. Known for its beautiful beaches and jungle landscapes.
• Minca - A small town in the Sierra Nevada mountains known for its lush natural environment, waterfalls, coffee farms, and eco-friendly lodges.

Cali

• San Antonio - Historic neighborhood with colonial architecture, cafes, and artisan shops.
• Cristo Rey - A large statue of Christ offering panoramic views of the city.
• Salsa Clubs - Cali is famous for its vibrant salsa scene, with numerous clubs and dance schools.
• Zoológico de Cali - One of the best zoos in Latin America, featuring a variety of species.
• Parque del Perro - A trendy area with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

San Andrés

• Johnny Cay - A small island with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for day trips.
• El Acuario - A natural aquarium and snorkeling spot with clear waters and abundant marine life.
• Hoyo Soplador - A natural blowhole that shoots water into the air when waves hit.
• West View - A popular spot for snorkeling and cliff jumping.
• San Luis - A traditional area with beautiful beaches and local cuisine.
• La Cueva de Morgan - A cave associated with pirate legends, named after the pirate Henry Morgan. It's an interesting site with a mix of history and myth.