Colombia Travel Guide
Colombia Essentials
Language: Spanish
Currency: Peso (COP)
Rate:
Time Zone: GMT -5
Capital City: Bogota
Population: 45.5 million
Layout: See Map
Travel to Colombia
Located in the northwest of South America, Colombia is the only South American country to have coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Colombia has a rich history, stunning rainforests, mountains and beaches, yet unfortunately still suffers the ill effects of drug smuggling and insurgent guerrilla activity. Despite its troubles, Colombia is an exciting holiday destination, offering both beach side luxury and jungle adventure.
The capital city, Bogota, is located in the centre of the country at a heady 2,598m and attracts most visitors. This vibrant city is one of modern high-rises and colonial buildings; tourists mainly stay in Zona Rosa or La Candelaria neighbourhoods. Highlights include: Colombia's best museum, Museo del Oro; Iglesia de San Ignacio and Iglesia de Santa Clara colonial churches; the colourful Jardin Botanico José Celestino Mutis (botanical garden) offers a glorious location for an afternoon stroll or siesta under the shade of its trees.
Beaches in Colombia
Cartagena is nestled on the Caribbean coast a long way from the bustle of Bogota, and generally considered safe. One of Colombia's most beautiful cites, Cartagena boasts wonderful Spanish colonial architecture, grand cathedrals and gorgeous beaches. The Palacio de la Inquisicion, the Museo del Oro and the old port of Cartagena should not be missed. Southwest of Cartagena are the Islas del Rosario, with extensive coral reefs and excellent diving.
San Andres is an archipelago 750kms northwest of the mainland in the Caribbean and attracts visitors to its natural beauty and excelelnt scuba diving. A favourite haunt for snorkellers and scuba divers, San Andres boasts beautiful turquoise waters and miles and miles of coral reefs harbouring an abundance of varied marine life.
There are some interesting holiday resorts on the Pacific coast of Choco, namely Bahia Solano and El Valle. Playa Larga in El Valle is an outstanding beach.
Rainforest in Colombia
In the northwest is the Choco Department, with its lush rainforest and the Los Katios National Park. Alternatively, the ancient town of Santa Fe de Antioquia, northwest of Medellin, features colonial architecture and atmosphere.
Colombian Archaeology
For those interested in archaeology, there are several sites in the southwest of Colombia, including Tierradentro and San Agustin, with their statues, treasure chests and ancient tombs. The nearby colonial city of Popayan is larger and a lot more laid-back and has brilliant museums and churches.
Elsewhere, the ancient city of the Tayrona Indians in La Ciudad Perdida was the largest archaeological find in the Americas in the 20th century.
