With over 2.5 million tourists a year, long gone are the days of Colombia’s not so attractive reputation stemming from it’s infamous war on drugs. Thanks to Colombia’s change in government about a decade ago, they’ve had more of a focus on education, a tougher stance on cartels, and created urban renewal programs that have helped with the positive transformation of this culturally rich and breathtakingly beautiful country. From it’s fresh, aromatic coffee to it’s newfound contemporary vibe mixed with its classic architecture, there are now so many reasons to visit Colombia!
Dive In To Colombia’s Sensational Coffee Culture
Colombia is extremely well-known for its coffee—it’s conceivably a way of life! Known for the quality and delicious taste, Colombia specializes in only high-end Arabica beans which thrive in Caldas, Quindío, and Risaraldas, better known as The Coffee Triangle. With the volcanic soil of the Colombian Andes and an ideal subtropical highland climate, this region has proven to be a perfect match for producing the rich, lightly fruity and chocolate flavor of Colombia’s high-quality coffee!
Located in the department of Quindío, is the town of Buenavista which is high up in the hills making it the best possible location for Hacienda San Alberto, the producer of Café San Alberto. Not only will you enjoy the freshest, top-tier coffee here but you get to relish in the astounding views of Colombia’s coffee region.
Bogotá—Home To Street Art & the Subterranean Salt Cathedral
By decriminalizing graffiti in 2011, creative expression has been able to flourish in the city of Bogotá. Many of the office blocks, storefronts, parks, and municipal walls have become the canvas of choice for some of the world’s best-loved street artists such as Kiptoe (USA), Amazon (Brazil), Bikisimo (Puerto Rico) and Colombia’s very own Guache, DJ LU, among others.
Aside from the colorful and thought provoking street art, you can discover a subterranean Salt Cathedral just a short drive out of Bogotá in the city of Zipaquirá. Located 200 meters deep underground in an abandoned salt mine, the Salt Cathedral is one of Colombia’s most popular attractions. It’s made up of 14 small chapels connected by tunnels that represent the stations of the cross. With such impressive and impactful architecture, it’s no wonder that this church serves as a pilgrimage site for many Catholics today!
Experience the Picturesque Charm Of Cartagena
Embraced by the warm waters of the Caribbean coast, Cartagena is one of the oldest colonial cities in Latina America. Known as the “walled city” there is exquisite architecture and lively color everywhere making it the perfect place to take in the old history while snapping a Instagram-worthy photographs that will capture the essence of the vibrant Colombian spirit!
Discover “Boterismo” In Medellin
Medellin native, Fernando Botero, is a figurative artist and sculptor known for his signature style (Boterismo) of people and figures in exaggerated, over-sized forms. 23 of Botero’s larger than life pieces can be found in Plaza Botero Sculpture Park in Medellin. If you just can’t get enough of Fernando Botero and his humorous, fascinating sculptures, then you can see more of his work at The Botero Museum in Bogotá which is in good company nearby the Gold Museum that contains the largest collection of gold artifacts in the world!
If you’ve been longing to experience a fascinating, diverse culture then it’s time you discover all this alluring country has to offer! For an immersive tour of Colombia, check out our 11-Day Discover Colombia trip!
