Part of our Colombia guide.
Colombia’s best experiences range from the walled city of Cartagena to the coffee farms of the Zona Cafetera, and this guide covers 50 of them. Below, you’ll find the highlights from our coverage, from Bogotá’s historic center to the beaches of Santa Marta and the archaeological wonders of San Agustín.
Related travel guides: Where To Stay In Colombia, Cartagena In Colombia: 26 Dos And Don’ts, How To Get From Cartagena To Playa Blanca, and Itineraries For Colombia.
50 Awesome Things To Do In Colombia
Colombia packs a lot into one country: Andean peaks, Caribbean shores, Amazon jungle, and colonial towns. The 50 things to do here include exploring Cartagena’s historic streets, hiking in Tayrona National Natural Park, and sipping coffee in Salento. You’ll also find colonial architecture in Villa de Leyva, street art in Bogotá, and the towering wax palms of Cocora Valley. Whether you’re after adventure, history, or just good food, Colombia delivers on all fronts.
The Best Things To Do In Cartagena Colombia - What Not To Miss
Start in Cartagena’s Historic Walled City, also known as the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like a time capsule with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and plazas. The iconic Clock Tower marks the main entrance, its grand architecture a symbol of the city’s colonial past. Don’t skip the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood for street art and local life, or the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas fortress for panoramic views.
Off The Beaten Track Travel: Things To Do In Pasto, Colombia
Pasto, in the Nariño department, sits in southwestern Colombia, often overlooked for more famous spots. This is a hidden gem with colonial architecture, green valleys, and the nearby Las Lajas Sanctuary, a striking church built into a canyon. You can also visit the Galeras Volcano or explore local markets for traditional crafts. It’s a slower, more authentic slice of Colombia, perfect if you want to get off the tourist trail.
The 9 Best Things To Do In Santa Marta - The Gateway To Northern Colombia
Santa Marta sits between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean Sea, making it a base for both beach and jungle adventures. The big draw is Tayrona National Natural Park, where jungle meets white-sand coves, and the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) for a multi-day trek. In town, the historic center has a relaxed vibe, and nearby Minca offers waterfalls and coffee fincas. It’s the perfect starting point for northern Colombia’s natural wonders.
The Best Things To Do In Bogota, Colombia
Bogotá, the capital, sits high in the Andes at 2,600 meters, so adjust slowly to the altitude. The historic district of La Candelaria is the core, with colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and churches like the Catedral Primada. Take the cable car or funicular up Monserrate for city views, and visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) for pre-Columbian artifacts. For street art, tour the neighborhoods of La Candelaria or the larger district of Chapinero.
The Best Things To Do In Villa De Leyva, Colombia
Villa de Leyva, in the Andean highlands, is famous for its enormous Plaza Mayor, a cobblestone square surrounded by whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs. The town’s colonial charm extends to its narrow streets and museums, including the Casa Terracota, a whimsical clay house. Weekend markets and local eateries fill the plaza with activity, and nearby fossil sites and wine country make for easy day trips.
Hidden Gems And Must-Do Activities In Colombia's Zona Cafetera
The Zona Cafetera, or Coffee Triangle, is more than coffee, though that’s a good start. You can tour working coffee farms, hike through the Cocora Valley to see towering wax palms (Colombia’s national tree), and soak in natural hot springs. Salento’s colorful streets are a must-see, and the valley’s trails range from easy walks to full-day treks. It’s a region of lush green hills and welcoming locals, perfect for outdoor lovers.
Eight Wonderful Things To Do In Minca (Updated 2020)
Minca, in the Sierra Nevada, is a nature retreat with cool mountain air and plenty of trails. Hike to Cascada La Pailona or the Marinka waterfalls for swimming holes, and visit a coffee or cacao farm to see how your morning brew is made. The town itself is small, with hostels and hammocks, and you can birdwatch or just relax with a book. It’s an easy escape from the heat of Santa Marta, about an hour away by road.
Five Things To Do In San Agustin
San Agustin, in the southern Andes, is an archaeological treasure trove with the largest collection of megalithic statues in South America. The Parque Arqueológico de San Agustín is a UNESCO site where you’ll find over 500 statues, tombs, and ceremonial sites spread across rolling hills. Beyond the park, the surrounding countryside offers horseback riding and river views. It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path stop for history buffs.
The Ultimate Guide Of Things To Do In Jardin Colombia
Jardin, in Antioquia, is a postcard town with colorful colonial houses, a central plaza, and the Basílica church with its painted ceiling. You can ride the cable car across the valley to a nature reserve, hike to a waterfall, or take a coffee tour at a local finca. The town’s name means “garden,” and it fits—flower-filled balconies and green hillsides surround you. For a local experience, try the town’s famous candies or join a traditional dance night.
