Things to do in Colombia

Colombia is an underappreciated South American country, but it is rapidly gaining a following amongst discerning travellers. The capital Bogotà is worth a few days of your time, with buzzy nightlife and some top-class art galleries including the Museu Del Oro, full of pre-Hispanic treasures.

The city of Medellìn has had a troubled past, but now is truly reborn with fashionable districts such as Poblado and Laureles and, once more, great nightlife.

Beach lovers will find Colombia a paradise, with the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona on the Caribbean, a standout choice with a large number of stunning beaches. Those with a little more time should head to Providencia, a magical tropical island with crystal clear water, ideal for snorkelling and diving.

The colonial city of Cartagena offers a delightful range of colourful buildings, many containing high-quality boutique hotels. Whilst here, don’t forget to check out the stylish sombrero vueltiao hats, woven by the indigenous people of the region – they will make a great souvenir of your Colombian trip.

Pay tribute to the rich heritage of Colombia’s indigenous people by going on a guided hike through the jungle to the ‘Ciudad Perdida’ – the lost city. If you are feeling truly adventurous, head to see the imposing and dramatic statues in the Parque Arqueologico San Agustìn.

If you’re in the mood for partying, nowhere does it better in Colombia than the people of Barranquilla at Carnival time, so good in fact that the Carnival was recognised by UNESCO as an intangible Cultural Heritage.

Colombia is an amazing country, with some would say the world’s best coffee; try a cup or two on a “finca” (a rural estate), in the coffee growing region, the ‘Zona Cafetera’.

Find out more about the other places featured in our Destinations to Watch 2026 report.