Top 10 Places to Visit in Colombia – Our 2026 Travel Favorites
Colombia is one of the most diverse, exciting, and underrated travel destinations in the world. From the Andes to the Amazon, from white-sand Caribbean beaches to colorful mountain towns, this country keeps surprising us – even after years of living and traveling here.
In this Top 10 Places to Visit in Colombia list, we’re not just sharing the most famous places in Colombia, but the ones that truly stayed with us. Think breathtaking views, cultural depth, local flavors, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re planning your first Colombia trip or coming back for more – these destinations offer something for every kind of traveler.
Why These Are Our Top 10 Places to Visit in Colombia
If you’re planning a trip to Colombia and wondering where to begin – we get it. Colombia is one of the most diverse countries on the planet. From jungle-covered coastlines to snow-capped volcanoes, from buzzing cities to forgotten pueblos – there’s simply too much to see. That’s exactly why we created this list.
We’ve traveled across Colombia for years – we live in Medellin, we hiked in La Guajira, flown over the Amazon, and soaked in every vibe this country has to offer. This is not a generic list. These are our real favorites, based on experience, emotion, and the places we’d tell any friend to visit.
It’s not just about the scenery. It’s about the energy of the people, the rhythm in the streets, the way a place can make you feel. It’s also incredibly affordable compared to many countries – you can have world-class adventures here on a backpacker’s budget. And no, this isn’t just a hype – Colombia really is one of the most exciting and rewarding countries to travel right now.
Let’s dive into our 2026 picks.
1. Medellin – The City of Eternal Spring
Medellin is the place we chose to live – and for good reason. With its mild year-round climate, lush green hills, and constant energy, this city blends innovation with authenticity like few others. What once had a troubled reputation is now one of the most exciting urban destinations in South America.
Every neighborhood feels like a different city: from the café-lined streets of Laureles to the creative vibes of Comuna 13, or the peaceful charm of Envigado and Sabaneta. One moment you’re riding the Metrocable over the mountains, the next you’re dancing to live music in a rooftop bar or hiking up to a viewpoint that takes your breath away.
🔄 Medellín is one of our top picks – check out our real favorites.
Medellin is incredibly diverse in what it offers – food, culture, nightlife, nature, digital nomad life – and still feels very human and approachable. Whether you’re here for a few days or planning to stay longer, we believe it’s a must for every Colombia trip. And with its well-connected international airport (José Maria Córdova), it’s easy to reach from Europe and across the Americas. Medellin is ideal for digital nomads, first-time travelers, and anyone looking to experience a city that has truly reinvented itself.
🎨 This Comuna 13 tour mixes local stories, street food and murals – a perfect intro to Medellín’s transformation.
2. Cartagena – Where Colonial Charm Meets Caribbean Vibes
Yes, Cartagena is touristy – but for good reason. We’ve visited many colonial towns across Latin America, and Cartagena’s old town is by far the most beautiful. The walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feels like a tropical time capsule with cobblestone streets, vibrant balconies, and a golden Caribbean light that makes every photo look magical.
Sure, the street vendors can be persistent – but wandering through this city is still an experience we never get tired of. From the music echoing in the plazas to the deep Afro-Caribbean roots that shape its identity, Cartagena is more than just a pretty place.
🏰 This Cartagena tour is great if you want to cover the main sights without planning anything yourself.
During the day, head to the beaches of Bocagrande or hop on a boat to Isla Tierra Bomba, Isla Barú, or the Rosario Islands for some classic Caribbean relaxation. And if you’re up for something different, a day trip to Palenque – the first free African village in the Americas – offers powerful cultural insights beyond the city walls.
🌇 This one deserves its own article – 15 Best Things to Do in Cartagena.
3. Jardin – Colombia’s Most Beautiful Small Town?
Jardin is hands down our favorite pueblo in all of Colombia – and honestly, the most beautiful one we’ve ever visited. The town itself looks like a postcard: white houses with colorful wooden trim, cobblestone streets, and a central plaza where people gather to drink coffee, chat, and ride through town on horseback.
What makes Jardin truly special is its setting. The town sits high in the mountains, surrounded by steep green hills and even taller peaks beyond. The air is fresh, the views are incredible, and everywhere you look, there’s a sense of calm. It feels far away from the noise of the world – in the best way.
It’s also full of experiences that show the real Colombia. You can visit coffee farms, take a ride on the town’s traditional cable car, or hike to hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. One of our personal highlights is the Cueva del Esplendor, a cave with a waterfall pouring through the roof – a truly magical place.
Jardin is perfect for anyone looking for slow travel, local culture, and nature. It’s the kind of place where time feels different – and where you’ll want to stay longer than planned.
4. Parque Tayrona – Hiking to Paradise on the Caribbean Coast
Tayrona National Park is one of Colombia’s true natural gems – and no, it’s not just about beaches. Getting there is part of the adventure: you hike through tropical jungle, pass giant boulders, hear the sounds of howler monkeys in the distance – and suddenly you’re standing in front of a turquoise bay that looks too perfect to be real. One of the most iconic spots is Cabo San Juan, where you can swim, relax, and even sleep in a hammock or tent just steps from the ocean. It’s also the best place to try the Pan Tayrona – a warm, stuffed bread that’s sold at the beach. It’s fresh, filling, and absolutely worth the short wait.
There are several hiking routes through the park, and spending a night is optional – but a great way to experience more of the area at a slower pace. You’ll have more time to explore different beaches, watch wildlife, and enjoy the sunset without rushing. Keep in mind: Tayrona is often closed in February and October for environmental preservation, so make sure to check the dates before planning your trip.
A quick note on the horses offered at the entrance: while riding might seem tempting, we’ve found the animals often appear overworked or poorly treated. We personally prefer to walk – but everyone can make that decision for themselves.
Tayrona is not just a destination – it’s a full experience: hiking, nature, beach, and silence. A must-see for nature lovers, backpackers, and anyone craving a raw, beautiful escape.
Explore Medellin Like a Local – With Our Interactive Travel Guide
Our Medellin Insider Travel Guide is a digital companion built from years of exploring, living, and working in this city. It’s web-based, works offline, and gives you direct access to the places, stories, and insights that actually matter. You won’t just find restaurants and sights – you’ll get local context, cultural tips, seasonal fruits to try, hidden cafés, and much more.
It’s updated regularly, filled with real photos, maps, and trusted recommendations – ideal for solo travelers, digital nomads, families or anyone who wants to explore Medellin with depth and confidence.
5. La Guajira – Where the Caribbean Meets the Desert
La Guajira feels like the edge of the world – and in many ways, it is. This remote region at the northern tip of South America is a surreal mix of golden sand dunes, turquoise sea, flamingos, salt flats, and rugged cliffs where the desert meets the Caribbean. This is not a comfort trip. There are no paved roads once you leave Uribia, no reliable cell signal, and very limited infrastructure. But that’s exactly what makes La Guajira unforgettable. You’ll travel in a 4×4 across wide open desert, guided by locals who know the terrain and the stories it holds.
We visited Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas as part of a multi-day tour – and it was one of the most unique travel experiences we’ve ever had. The Wayuu indigenous communities welcome visitors into their world, offering insight into their customs, crafts, and way of life. At night, the sky explodes with stars like you’ve never seen before. During the day, you’ll watch kite surfers dance across the wind in Cabo de la Vela, and stand at the northernmost point of South America, where land ends and nothing but ocean remains.
We strongly recommend visiting with a trusted guide or tour. Without one, it’s easy to get lost – literally. There are no signposts, and the desert paths shift with the wind. But with the right people, La Guajira becomes a journey of discovery: wild, raw, and deeply connected to Colombia’s cultural and natural soul. If you’re looking for an adventure that few tourists attempt – this is it.
6. Nuqui – Whale Watching & Hidden Beaches in the Pacific
If you’re dreaming of a place where the jungle meets the ocean, with no traffic, no chains, and no crowds – Nuqui is your escape. Hidden on Colombia’s Pacific coast, this region is wild, raw, and absolutely breathtaking. There are no roads leading here – you fly in from Medellin or Bogota and continue by boat, along muddy rivers and coastlines dotted with tiny fishing villages.
But that journey is part of what makes it so magical. Once you arrive, it feels like time slows down. You’ll fall asleep to the sound of waves, hike to hidden waterfalls, soak in natural hot springs in the middle of the jungle, and eat freshly caught fish on the beach, prepared by the local families who host you.
Between July and October, something even more extraordinary happens: humpback whales arrive in the warm Pacific waters to give birth. You can watch them breach just a few hundred meters off the shore – often right from your hammock. Nuqui is not about luxury. Electricity can be limited, Wi-Fi barely exists, and hot showers are a rare treat. But that’s exactly the point. It’s a place to reconnect – with nature, with people, and with yourself. For us, it was one of the most grounding, unforgettable experiences in all of Colombia.
If you’re looking for comfort, look elsewhere. But if you’re craving real connection and unspoiled nature, Nuqui might just be your favorite place too.
7. Tatacoa Desert – A Place to Disconnect and Feel Small
Colombia might be famous for jungles and beaches – but the Tatacoa Desert will catch you completely off guard. Just outside of Neiva, in the heart of the Huila region, this surreal mix of red and gray canyons stretches out under a burning sun by day and a sky full of stars by night. It feels more like walking on Mars than in South America.
We came here to see something different – and we left with one of the most peaceful memories of all our Colombia travels. There’s a stillness in Tatacoa that’s hard to describe. You wander through narrow paths carved by wind and time, sip cold guanabana juice in the shade, and end your day watching the sunset paint the desert in deep orange and violet hues.
But the real magic starts after dark. Tatacoa is one of the best places for stargazing in the country, thanks to its dry climate and low light pollution. You can stay in basic cabins, glamping tents, or hammocks – and fall asleep under one of the clearest skies you’ll ever see. The wider Huila region has so much to offer beyond the desert. From river rafting and natural pools in Rivera to the archaeological wonders of San Agustin, this part of Colombia is full of surprises – and still largely off the typical tourist trail.
If you want to disconnect, slow down, and feel like you’ve discovered something truly unique, Tatacoa belongs on your list. It’s hot, it’s dry, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.
8. Valle de Cocora – Hiking Among the World’s Tallest Palm Trees
There’s something magical about standing in the Valle de Cocora, surrounded by towering wax palms swaying in the wind. These slender giants – some reaching over 60 meters – are Colombia’s national tree, and seeing them in real life is a surreal, almost dreamlike experience.
The journey begins in Salento, one of the most charming towns in Colombia’s coffee region (Eje Cafetero). With its colorful balconies, lively main square, and endless cafés serving freshly brewed local coffee, it’s a perfect base to relax, connect with other travelers, or simply soak in the rural Colombian vibe.
🌿 Salento is a dream – and we wrote a full travel guide just for it.
But the real highlight is the hike. The full loop through cloud forests, across swinging bridges, and past hummingbirds and jungle-covered trails takes around 4 to 5 hours. It’s not difficult, but it’s varied and rewarding – and the views once you reach the palm-filled valley are unforgettable.
While Salento is definitely on the tourist trail, we’ve returned several times and it still feels authentic – a place where local traditions, coffee culture, and natural beauty come together in the best possible way. Whether you take a guided tour, ride a horse into the valley, or hike independently, Valle de Cocora is a must-see for any Colombia itinerary.
📷 We did this hike with a small group and it was one of the most scenic days of our Colombia trip.
The Best Medellin Tours for Every Travel Style
We work with handpicked, trusted local agencies to offer both private and shared tours in Medellin and its surroundings. Whether you prefer exploring with a small group or want the comfort of a private guide and driver, we’ve got options for every travel style and budget – without compromising on quality or safety.
Our partners are certified, experienced, and truly connected to the communities they represent. You can also book a dedicated guide or private driver for the day, arrange transfers, or explore the city on your own terms – with someone who knows it well by your side. Guides are available in Spanish, English, and other languages upon request.
No generic packages, no tourist traps – just honest, well-organized experiences by locals who care.
9. San Andres – Caribbean Waters, Island Vibes & a Sea of Seven Colors
When people dream of the Caribbean, they often think of white sand, turquoise water, and island adventures – and San Andres delivers exactly that. This small Colombian island, closer to Nicaragua than the mainland, is famous for its surreal “Sea of Seven Colors”, where crystal-clear waters shift from deep blue to electric turquoise in just a few meters.
The island is compact and best explored over three to four days. You can visit Johnny Cay, snorkel with vibrant marine life, go parasailing, take a diving course, or hop on a full island tour that includes blowholes, local viewpoints, and tiny satellite islands like Cayo Acuario. But while the water is magical, the rest of the island is more developed and densely built-up than many expect – so managing expectations is key.
🪂 If you want a view you’ll never forget, go for this parasailing ride – up in the air, above a turquoise dream.
We recommend staying in the northeast corner of the island, where you’ll find most of the restaurants, shops, and tour operators. Outside of that area, food options are extremely limited and getting around can be inconvenient if you’re not renting a scooter or buggy. San Andres is all about slow days by the sea, jumping from one beach to the next, and ending your afternoon with a fresh fish dish and a cold beer by the shore.
It may not be untouched paradise, but if you’re chasing warm waters, coral reefs, and easy island time, San Andres is still one of Colombia’s best coastal escapes. Just come for the sea – and let everything else be a backdrop.
10. Bogota – More Than Just a Stopover
We’ll admit it – we didn’t fall in love with Bogota right away. Like many travelers, we’d heard mixed opinions. But after multiple visits and longer stays, the city started revealing its layers – and today, we actually really like it.
Colombia’s capital is more than just La Candelaria and Monserrate. Head to Chapinero or the far north and you’ll find vibrant neighborhoods with pedestrian zones, international restaurants, cafés, rooftop bars, local markets, and even great shopping. There’s street art and salsa, but also excellent museums, parks, and a multicultural energy that reflects the diversity of the entire country.
Bogota isn’t for everyone. If you only have two weeks and prefer small towns or nature, it’s okay to skip it. But if you love big cities with contrast, culture, and character, Bogota might just surprise you – like it did us. We keep coming back for a reason.
🚲 We loved this Bogotá bike tour – you’ll ride through markets, graffiti zones and local barrios with a great guide.
Colombia Has Too Much to Offer – Here’s What Didn’t Fit Our 10
Choosing just ten places in Colombia wasn’t easy. In fact, it felt almost impossible. This country is so full of breathtaking regions, vibrant towns, and under-the-radar gems that we could easily write a Top 30 list and still leave out something special.
We didn’t include Barichara, even though its cobblestone streets and colonial charm make it one of the most beautiful villages in Colombia. Capurgana and Sapzurro, tucked on the Caribbean coast near Panama, are still paradise for those who like to hike between beaches and unplug. Villa de Leyva, with its whitewashed walls and massive central square, is a favorite for weekend escapes from Bogota.
And then there’s Mompox, magical and moody by the Magdalena River. Popayan, known as the white city, rich in history and tradition. Cali, the salsa capital, bursting with rhythm and nightlife. And Pasto and the south, where Andean culture meets volcanic landscapes. And let’s not forget about the Colombian Amazon.
What makes Colombia unique is that you don’t have to follow the crowd. There are so many regions still untouched by mass tourism, offering incredible experiences for those willing to go off the beaten path. Whether you love hiking, history, food, beaches, or culture – this country has more than enough to fill your itinerary (and your heart). We still think that this Top 10 Places to Visit in Colombia List will help you plan your perfect Colombia Trip.
Is It Safe to Travel to Colombia in 2026?
Let’s keep it real – Colombia still carries a reputation that’s mostly shaped by its past. But if you’ve made it this far in your research, you probably already know: the Colombia of today is a very different place.
We’ve traveled all over the country – from big cities to remote jungle beaches – and what we’ve consistently found is kindness, curiosity, and a genuine welcome. The vast majority of travelers here will experience nothing but positive encounters and unforgettable memories. That said, like anywhere in the world, a bit of awareness goes a long way. Stick to the safer areas in cities, don’t flash valuables, and avoid wandering through quiet streets at night, especially if you’ve had a few drinks. Outside the cities, especially in well-visited areas like Tayrona, Salento, Jardin or Guatape, safety is rarely a concern – the vibe is usually relaxed, friendly, and community-focused.
If you travel respectfully and stay alert like you would anywhere else, you’ll not only be safe – you’ll be rewarded with everything Colombia has to offer: beauty, depth, spontaneity, and human warmth you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
Why Colombia Should Be on Everyone’s Travel List
We’ve seen a lot of places. But few have captured our hearts like Colombia. It’s the contrasts that make it so special – from misty mountains to tropical coastlines, from street art to sacred silence, from deep-rooted tradition to bold reinvention. Every corner tells a different story. And somehow, it all fits together. It is not only about the Top 10 Places to Visit in Colombia – it is about creating your perfect Colombia Itinerary.
Colombia is still in that rare moment – where the infrastructure is growing, but the soul is still intact. Yes, more and more travelers are discovering it. But the crowds? They’re still nothing compared to other global destinations. The prices? Still fair. The experiences? Still real.
This is your window. Come while it’s still easy to connect with locals. Come before the headlines shift from “hidden gem” to “over-touristed.” Come while Colombia is still Colombia – raw, beautiful, and full of heart.
If you’re planning your first trip or want help crafting something truly special, feel free to reach out. We love this country – and we’re happy to help you fall in love with it too.
About Medellín Insider
We’re Tati & Goran – a Colombian-Croatian couple who have called Medellin home for over seven years. This city is where our paths came together, and over time, it became so much more than just a place we live – it’s where we’ve built a life, created memories, and found inspiration every single day.
We started Medellin Insider because we believe this city deserves more than clichés and quick travel reels. Medellin is full of energy, color, resilience, kindness – and a lot more than what you see on social media. Through this digital platform, we want to share the city we fell in love with – honestly, deeply, and with the kind of real-world tips you only get from living here.
If you’re curious to experience Medellin beyond the headlines, we’re here to help.
