When people think of Colombia, they often picture colorful colonial towns, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, salsa rhythms echoing late into the night, and breathtaking landscapes that stretch from Caribbean beaches to Amazonian jungles. But to truly understand Colombia, you have to look beyond the postcard images. For decades, the country was overshadowed by political turmoil, armed conflict, and the influence of powerful drug cartels that shaped its international reputation. This complex past has left deep marks on Colombian society, but it has also forged a spirit of resilience and creativity that visitors quickly notice.
Today, Colombia is in the midst of a transformation. Peace efforts, social change, and a growing tourism industry have opened doors to regions once considered off-limits. Travelers now find themselves welcomed not only by stunning scenery but also by Colombians eager to share a story that is far richer than its troubled headlines. Knowing a bit of the political and historical context doesn’t mean approaching the country with fear — it means arriving with respect, awareness, and a deeper appreciation of what makes Colombia so unique.
Capital: Bogotá — At 2,640 meters (8,660 ft) above sea level, Bogotá is one of the highest capital cities in the world — so don’t be surprised if you feel a little breathless on your first day!
Official Language: Spanish (though you’ll also hear Indigenous languages in some regions).
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP) — $1 USD ≈ 3,900–4,000 COP — travel lightly, because those zeros add up fast!
Population: About 52 million people, known for their warmth and hospitality.
Time Zone: UTC -5, same all year round (no daylight saving time).
Visa: Many travelers from Europe, North America, and Latin America can explore visa-free for up to 90 days. If you are unsure for your country check Passport Index.
Best Time to Visit: December–March for dry, sunny weather — perfect for exploring both the coasts and the mountains.
Famous For: World-class coffee, colorful colonial towns, emeralds, salsa dancing, and stunning biodiversity.
Fun Fact: Colombia is the world’s second-largest flower exporter (right after the Netherlands) — so if you’ve bought roses in Europe, chances are they came from here.
Recent History: After more than five decades of armed conflict, the 2016 peace agreement ushered in a new chapter, opening the door for travelers to discover the country’s beauty with greater ease and safety.
Colombia’s eastern Caribbean coast stretches along the Caribbean Sea, bordering Venezuela and spanning the departments of Bolivar, Atlántico, Magdalena, Cesar, and La Guajira. Nearly 9 million people live here, creating a vibrant culture shaped by Indigenous, African, and European roots.
The region features everything from the snow-capped Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta—the world’s highest coastal mountain range—to the arid Guajira desert and beautiful beaches like the Rosario Islands. Highlights include national parks such as Rosario and San Bernardo Corals, Tayrona, and Macuira.
Main cities are Cartagena de Indias with its colonial heritage, Barranquilla famed for its carnival, Santa Marta, and Riohacha—the gateway to La Guajira.
Cartagena de Indias, a vibrant port city on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, was founded in 1533. The name comes from early Spanish explorers who thought they had arrived in India. In this city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can begin with a visit the Convento de la Popa, which offers a panoramic view of the city.
Next, explore the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, an impressive fortress built to shield Cartagena from attacks. Its massive walls made the city one of the safest ports in the Caribbean for Spanish ships, especially when unloading precious cargo and, tragically, enslaved people.
Make time to visit the Church of San Pedro Claver, a powerful symbol of compassion in Cartegena. San Pedro Claver, a Spanish Jesuit priest and missionary spent his life welcoming and caring for enslaved Africans brought to Cartagena. He was known for boarding slave ships in the port of Cartagena, bringing food, medicine, and care to people in horrific conditions.
He baptized an estimated 300,000 enslaved Africans during his lifetime. Some historians argue that his work softened the cruelty of slavery (through care and dignity), while others criticize that he still operated within and reinforced the system by focusing on spiritual salvation rather than challenging slavery itself.
Between the 1600s and 1800s, historians estimate hundreds of thousands— to possibly over a million—Africans passed through Cartagena, most originating from West and Central Africa, especially areas now known as Angola, Congo, and Guinea. From Cartagena, captives were sent inland or to other regions including Peru, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
Today, the church stands as a moving reminder of this legacy and invites visitors to reflect on the city’s complex past. You’ll also find dedicated local guides who share in-depth stories about their enslaved ancestors and the lasting impact on Cartagena’s culture. Check out this link for more information.
You can end the day by exploring the city’s neighborhoods by foot: Bocagrande, Getsemaní, and the historic center with its colorful colonial houses.
Just off Cartagena’s coast, you can visit the enchanting archipelago: the Rosario Islands that you can reach in just 45 minutes by boat. The Rosario archipelago is a group of about thirty coral islands located 20 km from Cartagena, on the Caribbean coast. It is one of the 46 Natural National Parks of Colombia. It's a refreshing change from the beaches in Cartagena, offering a more picturesque and enjoyable experience.
Playa Blanca is the most accessible Rosario Island day trip. While the beach is beautiful, it can be busy and lively, with plenty of visitors and street vendors. Still, you can enjoy delicious, freshly sliced mangoes from local vendors right on the sand.
For tips on planning the ideal day in the Rosario Islands, check out this detailed blog post by Thomas Espeute, who shares expert advice for making the most of your visit.
Hidden deep within the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Teyuna—also known as the Lost City—is a remarkable archaeological site dating back to the ancient Indigenous peoples of the region. Reaching the Lost City requires a challenging 4-5 day trek through lush rainforest and mountainous terrain, making it an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking adventure. This iconic trek stands out as Colombia’s most celebrated hiking experience, drawing explorers from around the world.
What to expect:
Perfect for active travelers and first-time multi-day trekkers. While scenic viewpoints are limited, the journey’s highlights are the immersive rainforest, wildlife, and powerful cultural heritage.
Highlights:
Discover the Lost City’s legends, explore vibrant jungle, and connect with Indigenous traditions during an adventurous trek.
Considerations:
Limited cultural engagement, few viewpoints until the Lost City, and a higher cost than most Colombian treks.
La Guajira, Colombia is a fascinating mix of desert, Caribbean coast, and indigenous culture. Travelers often visit Cabo de la Vela for kitesurfing and sunsets, or venture further to Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America. Along the way, you can see the salt mines of Manaure, sand dunes, and fishing villages. The region is home to the Wayuu people, who welcome visitors with their crafts and traditions.
How to get there: Most trips start from Riohacha, the regional capital, which has flights from Bogotá and Medellín. From there, guided tours in 4x4 vehicles are recommended, as distances are long and roads are not always paved.
Best time to visit: The dry season (December–April) is the easiest for traveling, though La Guajira is generally hot and dry year-round.
What to pack: Bring light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Nights in the desert can be cooler, so a light sweater is useful. Cash is also important, as ATMs are limited outside Riohacha.
Considerations:
Macuira National Park is a rare oasis in the desert, home to diverse wildlife and a unique cloud forest at just 600 meters above sea level. The tour includes all essential sites. Expect longer jeep rides than the classic tour, since Nazareth is quite remote. Moderate fitness is required for hiking in the park. The trip is harder to organize, roads can be impassable when it rains, and departures are less frequent.
Visiting La Guajira takes some preparation, but rewards you with breathtaking landscapes and a distinctive cultural experience. For more details, see the in-depth article by Angélica & Samuel on their blog, My Trip to Colombia. They emphasize the importance of traveling with a reputable local agency in the desert. After a mixed experience, they sought out an operator committed to a more responsible approach—Paola’s agency in Riohacha, known for promoting sustainable tourism in the Guajira.
San Basilio de Palenque, about an hour’s drive from Cartagena, is a must-visit for travelers interested in history and culture. Known as the first free town in the Americas, it was founded in the 17th century by escaped enslaved Africans and is today recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the town through guided tours that highlight its traditions, music, and the unique Palenquero language, the only Spanish-based creole in Latin America.
How to get there: The village is accessible by road from Cartagena. Most travelers join organized day tours, which include transport, a local guide, and cultural activities.
What to do: Learn about the town’s history of resistance, enjoy performances of traditional music and dance, and try local dishes such as mote de queso or sancocho. Don’t miss the chance to see the colorful murals and meet artisans who share their crafts and stories.
Best time to visit: Palenque can be visited year-round, but going with a guide during local festivals offers a deeper cultural experience.
A trip to San Basilio de Palenque offers more than sightseeing—it’s an immersion into living history and Afro-Colombian culture that continues to shape the country today.
For more details, check out Tom’s blog, where you’ll find recommendations for local guides.
The story of Mompox
Founded in 1537 by Alonso de Heredia—or, according to some accounts, by Juan de Santa Cruz in 1540—Mompox grew quickly thanks to its strategic spot on the Magdalena River, serving as a safe river port and commercial center. The town was renowned for its royal mint and talented goldsmiths. For over 300 years, Mompox thrived, offering a haven for Spanish treasures threatened by pirates, and on August 6, 1810, it became Colombia’s first town to declare independence from Spain, earning recognition from Simón Bolívar. Later, silting of the river isolated the town, but its charm was revived by its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1995.
Why visit Mompox
Mompox is like stepping into a Gabriel García Márquez novel—a journey through Colombia’s colonial heritage. With its tranquil, time-preserved atmosphere, stunning colonial architecture, peaceful plazas, and vibrant craft workshops, Mompox invites travelers to explore at a relaxed pace. To truly appreciate its history and character, exploring the town with a knowledgeable local guide is highly recommended.
Best time to visit
Mompox experiences hot and humid weather year-round, with daytime temperatures typically between 27°C and 35°C. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from December to April, when rainfall is at its lowest. The rainiest months—September to November—bring cooler temperatures, but sudden showers can quickly empty the streets. To avoid crowds, skip the high season in January, Easter week, and the annual jazz festival (September or October). If traveling during these peak periods, be sure to book accommodations well in advance.
How many days do I need?
A single day offers just a glimpse of Mompox, but spending two nights lets you truly absorb its unique charm and hidden treasures. Given its remote location, consider a 3- to 4-day stay with a local agency for a richer experience.
Traveling through Colombia’s Caribbean coast reveals more than just postcard beaches and colorful towns—it opens a window into the country’s layered history, diverse cultures, and remarkable resilience. From Cartagena’s colonial streets and nearby Rosario Islands to the ancestral lands of the Wayuu in La Guajira, from the living traditions of San Basilio de Palenque to the timeless charm of Santa Cruz de Mompox, each destination tells a different part of Colombia’s story.
What makes the journey unforgettable is not only the landscapes but also the warmth of the people you meet along the way. Colombia invites travelers to go beyond the familiar, to listen, to learn, and to embrace a culture that continues to transform and inspire. Whether you come for history, adventure, or simply to slow down and enjoy the rhythm of Caribbean life, one thing is certain: Colombia will stay with you long after your trip ends.