Here are my five top tips for where to go in Colombia:
1. Santa Marta - Santa Marta is found on the glorious Caribbean coast of Colombia and is one of the oldest surviving cities in South America. Its music never stops and there is an intoxicating atmosphere about the place! This sun-drenched city is the perfect gateway to explore the area's idyllic coastline, the mountainous town of Minca with its waterfalls and coffee plantations, and Tayrona National Park to enjoy both its stunning beaches and array of wildlife.
2. Salento - Located on the coffee triangle, this is a popular town for tourists who arrive wanting to learn about the origins of their most favourite drink, either from a visit to one of the local coffee plantations, or from one of the expert baristas in one of the many cool coffee shops the town has to offer. Wander around the pueblo and enjoy the bright-coloured facades, with each building offering a unique and eye-catching design. From Salento, you can reach the picture-perfect palms of the Cocora Valley; an area that offers beautiful hikes through rolling hills and cloud forests, and past some of the most incredible palm trees you will have ever seen!
3. Medellín - The buzz of this city never fades! Wherever you go Medellín, you are almost always guaranteed a view of the Andes Mountains which surround the city emanating their natural beauty. The city has everything- a year-round spring climate, art, culture, food, nightlife, football… what is not to love?! You cannot miss out on a day trip to Guatapé- a quaint town not far from Medellín city full of colourful buildings and the immense Peñón de Guatapé which you absolutely must climb for one of the best views in Colombia!
4. Cartagena – Cartagena de Indias is a magical place. The city is located on the Caribbean coast so offers close access to some of the area’s most picturesque beaches, and also boasts a magnificent, historic ‘walled city’ that is just begging to be explored by visitors! As one of the most photogenic cities in the world, enjoy the majestic colours of the buildings and soak up the relative glamour of the place. Once you have finished exploring the historic centre, be sure to see the fashionable neighbourhood of Getsemani for an alternative view on the city surrounded by both locals and travellers alike with its quirky cafés and bars, bright and colourful street-art as well as entertaining street performers throughout the day and night.
5. Tolú – Head off the beaten track and enjoy a few nights in Tolú. Here you will escape the tourist crowds of Cartagena, and will have a more authentic view of Colombia as well as some of the tastiest (and well-priced) street food the country has to offer! The beaches in this area are enjoyed by Colombians who flock here in high-season for some Caribbean sun, however, it is a spot that is usually overlooked by foreign travellers who miss out on uncovering this hidden gem. From Tolú, you can take a trip to the Islas de San Bernardo; a group of heavenly islands accessed by boat. You can stop off at Santa Cruz del Islote- a tiny island yet the world most densely populated one, before making your way to some of the more tranquil islas. Take a dip in the clear turquoise waters and dine on fresh seafood, arroz de coco (coconut rice), patacones (fried plantain slices) with cocktails made by locals on the beach!
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