Colombian Christmas

Christmas in Colombia

Avg. temperature: 23.9°C / 75°FSun: 6 Hrs (sunshine) / 11.5 Hrs (daylight)
Rain: 147 mm per monthAvg. humidity: 69.7%

For travelers from countries in the Northern Hemisphere it can feel a little out of the ordinary to experience a warm Christmas. Come to Colombia, and that’s just what you will get! With temperatures averaging at a spring-like 23.9°C / 75°F you should not expect a Winter Wonderland at Christmastime.

How long does Christmas last in Colombia?

You may be surprised to find out that in Colombia, Christmas lasts for a whole month! Starting with Dia de las Velitas, or “Day of the Little Candles”, on 7 December, 30 days of festivities follow before the holiday finishes on 6 January with the celebration of the Three Kings.

Unlike in Christian countries where Christmas is celebrated on 25 December, Christmas in Colombia is founded on Catholic traditions and the celebrations are held on 24 December.

In case you’re travelling with the family… Does Colombia believe in Santa?

One unique tradition you’ll want to be aware of for your Colombian Christmas relates to the delivery of gifts. You shouldn’t expect many Santa sightings! Instead, in Colombian culture, it is El Niño Dios (or the Baby Jesus) who delivers presents to children during the night, ready to open under the tree on Christmas morning. 

Many Colombians still believe in Santa Claus and his reindeers, soaring the night sky in his sleigh, but most don’t believe he’s responsible for the gifts.

El Niño Dios has the same magical wonder about him as Santa does in Christian countries as he flies through the skies at midnight delivering treats to the well-behaved children of Colombia.

Colombian Christmas traditions

Dia de las Velitas

The Day of the Little Candles is the first day of the celebrations on 7 December. Houses and streets are decorated with candles, lanterns and lights. Huge fireworks displays are held in most major towns and cities, and the streets fill with people who come together to celebrate the start of the holiday season.

Music, dancing and delicious local foods fill the streets for what Colombians call “The Feast of the Immaculate Conception“, and the Christmas season has officially begun.

The most famous Christmas lights in Colombia – and potentially some of the best in the world – are at El Alumbrado, the Christmas Lights Festival held in Medellin each year. The lights tend to go up at the end of November and are lit until the festive season ends on 6 January.

Novenas

Beginning on 16 December, Colombians take part in “Novenas”, a form of worship consisting of special prayers or services on nine successive days, leading right up to Christmas day itself. Throughout the nine days, family, friends and loved ones come together to pray in celebration of the birth of Jesus. 

There are often special services where people sing Christmas carols and read verses from the bible, and as per Colombian festivities of any kind, cook delicious local delicacies and share love through food.

On the final day, 24 December, families eat their traditional Christmas dinner before unwrapping the presents left by El Niño Dios during the night.

Cena de Navidad

This is the name of the traditional Colombian Christmas dinner! It typically consists of pork stuffed with rice and peas (or “lechona”), a meat soup known as “Ajiaco Bogotano” and various small finger-food dishes.

Innocent Days

A few days after Christmas, on 28 December, is the “Innocent Days” celebration which is equivalent to the April Fools Day you hear of in many parts of the world. Jokes are told, pranks and played, and mayhem is caused throughout the day, which is intended to commemorate the massacre of male children in Bethlehem when King Herod ordered the execution of male toddlers under 2 years old. 

Whilst the history of Innocent Days sounds tragic, the story goes that God interrupted the plan to deceive Herod in order to protect the innocent young children. In honour of this, Colombians use 28 December to playfully deceive with a series of childish pranks and jokes that can be enjoyed by all!

How do you say Merry Christmas in Colombia?

You may be familiar with the world-famous festive song, “Feliz Navidad”. Well, that literally translates to “Merry Christmas” in Spanish! 

Where can I spend Christmas in Colombia?

As the whole country celebrates the festive season, there are so many options for places to stay during your Christmas break. It is the highlight of the year for many Colombians and tourists, and with so much to get involved in choosing where to stay could be a tricky decision! The big cities tend to have the most going on, and here are some of the options that prove most popular.

Cartagena, Medellin or Bogota

You’ve heard about Medellin’s famous light festival, El Alumbrado (in National Geographic magazines top 10 lights in the world!), and this is the main reason it is considered by many to be the best place to visit in Colombia during your Christmas vacation. In 2019 the festival saw 27 million LED lights be lit alongside various woven artefacts made by a team of more than 200 creatives.

Bogota is a tamer version of Medellin at Christmas. It still offers spectacular light displays but the crowds are much less and the city generally feels a little calmer. For many this could be a benefit and by no means does it mean it’s any less fun!

Cartagena is another popular spot for Christmas in Colombia, and one of the best places to be if you want to spend Christmas by the beach. Every house, shop and building is lit up with stunning bright lights and the bars and clubs invite all to come and dance during the celebrations. There are beaches and boat tours, sea and snorkeling and plenty of fun to be had on the neighbouring islands! 

Cover photo source: https://www.colombia.co/en/colombia-culture/folklore/five-ways-celebrate-christmas-colombia/

Best time to visit Colombia: JanFebMar AprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Traveling to Colombia in Summer

How hot is Colombia in the Summer?

Colombia’s near-equatorial climate means that the country has very little seasons, meaning there is not a huge difference between summer in Colombia and winter in Colombia, and its climate really depends on the altitude of the city. The difference between the climate in Cartagena and the climate in Bogota differs vastly. Cartagena employs a tropical climate around 30 degrees celsius or more all-year round while Bogota’s pre-Andean biome experiences cooler air at an average of 15-20 degrees celsius. 

Colombia has the advantage of being a prime visiting destination all year round, but the summer months are when the country’s festival seasons and the special events come to bring Colombia to the limelight. The awesome beaches and waterfalls explode with activity and the time ripe to meet and befriend the hospitable locals.

What months are Summer in Colombia?

While Colombia is not categorized by seasons, Summer would usually be during May to August. These ‘seasons’ are mostly punctuated by how dry or how wet the area is, and these are only determined by altitude and topography, rather than hemispheric identifiers.

What are the hottest months in Colombia?

While this depends on the altitude and topography of the area you want to visit, the hottest months in general terms would be between June to early August. 

Hotels in Colombia during the Summer

Colombia’s prime year round climate gives leeway for Colombia to have multiple high seasons a year. During the summer, Mid-June to July would be the typical peak season for tourism, so it is recommended in advance if you are booking then. If you are booking for the advent of summer, It is good to book when you feel comfortable. Colombia is a huge country with a still burgeoning tourism sector, so there is no real shortage of locations to book! 

Weather in Colombia in the Summer

Colombia is a jewel of diverse ecosystems. From tropical rainforests, savannahs, steppes, deserts and mountains, there is much to see and even more to experience. With the diversity of locations come the diversity of the climate. 

In the Southeast of the country, you will find the rainforest climate of the Amazon to be muggy, warm, teeming with life as well as periodically raining. In the North and the East of the country you will find a savanna climate with grassland and sparse vegetation. You will find this biome hot, but adventurous, with opportunities for shade. In the interior, you will find steppe regions with mild climate and a feeling of sparse vastness. In the Northeastern tip of the country, you will surprisingly find a desert-like climate which will be hot and dry. With all of these said, each area in Colombia has a different culture that surrounds these different climates, and you will be sure to have a rich experience in every part of the country that you go. 

Festival Season

Summer is a prime time for festivals. With Independence Day that lines the streets with parades and street events, to the Flower Festival which lines the entire city of Medellin with flowers. Those and everything in between will create a fun and festive atmosphere for you and your family.

Best time to visit Colombia: JanFebMar AprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Traveling to Colombia in Winter

What months are winter in Colombia?

Colombia has the great advantage of being isothermal, this means that there is no real change in seasons. This is because of its proximity to the equator, as well as its extremely varied biomes. Although Colombia’s seasons are not very different, the real difference between going to Colombia in the winter as opposed to going in the summer depends on which part of Colombia you would like to visit. 

Colombia’s climate and how you would like to spend your winter vacation depends heavily on the altitude on which your destination will be. Though Colombia is a prime visiting destination all year round, there are some tips and tricks on how to gauge your trip to best enjoy either your beachside getaway or your Andean expedition. 

Hotels in Colombia during the Winter

Colombia’s varied climate during the winter gives leeway for travelers to tailor their vacation based on places that would be considered ‘low season’ in one place, and ‘peak season’ in another. In major cities and the Caribbean coast, the peak season would mainly be from December to March, as this chronicles what Colombia considers the dry season. What a lot of people do not know (lucky for you adventurers!) is that the Andes experiences a similar dry season, meaning you can split your time between a beach retreat and crisp hike in the picturesque Andes! A rule of thumb is that the temperature differs by around 6 degrees celsius for every 1000 meters of altitude.

Further, while Savanna in the Eastern portion of the country experiences a hot and very dry climate, this is the best time to take a wildlife safari as animals tend to congregate more readily around the few water sources. In comparison, the Amazon rainforest tends to be the wettest during what the rest of the country experiences drier weather. This however, does not mean that the Amazon’s ‘wet season’ necessarily prohibits travel, and that’s the beauty of Colombia. There is no hard wet or dry season, just wetter or drier. 

This being said, Colombia is a big country and there is no shortage of accommodation. And because of Colombia’s lack of seasonal climate, the country will always be busy, so luckily, you can book whenever you may please!

Is December a good time to go to Colombia?

December is the time in Colombia where people shut out from work and school and spend more time out with friends, family or just going shopping in preparation for Christmas. This is a great time to make local friends and there are many events in the winter that will allow you to do so. Christmas is a given, but there are carnivals in many cities, most notably the Grand Carnival in Barranquilla begins in late January through to February! This is comparable to the Carnival in Brazil, and goes on for days! 

Best time to visit Colombia: JanFebMar AprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Tips for Financial Safety in Colombia

When it comes to the safety of tourists in Colombia (and Latin America in general), money (and trying to hold onto it) is the root of all evil. Scams, petty thieves, and thieves who are….less petty, are what drive tourists to buy money belts, utilize hotel safes, and keep their phones in their pockets – smart tourists that is. It doesn’t take much to keep yourself protected, but knowing exactly what to look out for will help ensure you’re not taken advantage of while just trying to enjoy yourself. 

Scams in Colombia

Knowing the threats is the best way to avoid them altogether. Below are a combination of actual scams otherwise malicious tactics that someone might use to try and take your money, but they’re all relevant. 

  • Fake Police: watch out for anyone approaching you claiming to be a police officer. They might do any number of things – ask to inspect your cash/documents to see if they are “counterfeit,” confiscate that money, plant drugs on you, force you to pay a bribe. Best way to avoid it? Carry copies of your passport and entry stamps instead of the real thing, and if someone does claim to be police and wants to have a conversation, get them to go inside a police station or hotel to do it – just get off the street. 
  • Tricky taxi drivers: Some taxi drivers have a deft hand when you hand them a large note. For example – you hand them a 20,000 peso note, they switch it for a 2,000 note and claim that’s all that you gave them. Another fun one – you hand them a large note, they take it, and hand it back telling you “no change.” When you say it’s all you have, they suddenly produce change out of nowhere, but you go to pay with that same note the next day and find out it’s fake. You’ve been had. The best way to get around this is to only use small notes when paying. 
  • Taking the long way: Another one for taxi-takers – some drivers will try to take advantage of tourists ignorant to the local routes by taking unnecessary turns and going in circles to drive up the meter price, assuming you don’t know the route anyway. You have a couple of options here: you can take Uber, where the ride is already tracked via GPS, or you can (casually) mention to the driver that you’ve taken this route, minimizing the chances he will try anything tricky. 
  • When you weren’t looking: Always keep your eyes and/or hands on bags, folks. Pickpockets the world over will try things like this – you’re enjoying a drink or a meal at your outdoor table and someone comes over to try and sell you something. While you’re not looking, they reach into your bag. This can happen anytime your bag is slung over your chair, or in crowded areas where the thieves work in groups. Stay alert, and never hang your bag on the back of a chair, etc. 
  • Don’t show me the money: At most markets, all items are up for negotiation. That is, right until the vendor watches you rifle through your wallet and sees a crisp 50,000 peso note. If they know how much you have, there’s no way they’ll let the price go down. Keep it hidden, you’ll be all good. 

Keeping your money safe in Colombia

Now for some advice: is it your first time in a pickpocket culture? Lacking confidence? Not to worry, because there is really only one word you need to remember: vigilance

The best friend of thieves is distraction. When you are not looking and unaware of the last time you even thought about your phone, that is their ideal time to strike. The solution? Know exactly where your things are at all times, and never leave something valuable in an easily accessible pocket. This means that money goes in the front pockets (NOTHING in the back pockets), and is ideally split into multiple locations so that if they get you, they don’t get everything. 

Phones should not be out in the open when you’re on the street, and should be kept in a secure pocket or even under the clothes for maximum security. In the event that you fall victim to mugging, be sure to only have as much money on you as is needed for the day, so you can minimize your loss. 

In order to feel absolutely secure against petty theft, many travelers opt for a money belt (some of them even look like real belts!), or a full sized money pouch to be kept under the clothes. There’s really no better way to feel secure in keeping track of your bills and notes. 

Looking for more information? 

Safety in Colombia

Food and Water Safety in Colombia

Solo Travel in Colombia

Getting Around: Transportation in Colombia

Food and Water Safety in Colombia

The thing that many people look forward to most about traveling is the pure joy of experiencing new food. However, if you happen to be going to a country which exists on an entirely different continent from your home, that can certainly raise some very important questions about the basics of eating and drinking. 

The good news? You will not starve. Far from it – the food in Colombia is amazing, and clean tap water does exist. However, you’ll want to remember a few things to keep you as safe as possible. 

Is the Food Safe in Colombia? 

Overall? Yes. Keep in mind a few ground rules to ensure that the food you’re eating is the freshest and safest possible. 

  • Has it been sitting out in the sun for….a while? Don’t do it, walk away and find food that is totally fresh, or better yet, made right in front of your eyes (street food is great for this). 
  • Keep to crowded restaurants. Good patronage is an excellent marker of food that is probably proven to be safe and delicious. 
  • Eating fruit? Make sure it has a peel you can remove. Or otherwise that you are able to wash it thoroughly. You want to avoid contamination from dirty produce. 
  • Wash your hands. Really people. This one is self-explanatory. 

Vegetarian food in Colombia

Hard news, my plant-based brothers and sisters – this is a meat-based food culture. Now, this does not mean that it’s impossible to stick to your dietary restrictions and values. However, you would do right to learn all of the Spanish words and phrases needed to talk with servers, read labels, and otherwise ensure that the stuff you put in your belly is veg-friendly. 

Is it safe to eat street food in Cartagena?

If you follow the above tips, the street food in Cartagena is perfectly safe… and totally delicious! One of the advantages of street food over eating in a restaurant is that you can see the ingredients and watch the food being prepared. This makes it easy to judge how fresh the food is, and if there’s a line for that little stall, you know it’s good!

What is Colombian street food?

Colombian cuisine is often overshadowed by the food of its neighboring countries, but what people overlook is that Colombia has comfort food to go on lock. Seriously – one of the countries staple dishes is Picada, a heaping platter of chopped meat (often chunks of steak, chorizo, blood sausage, chicken, cow’s intestines) and vegetables line plantain, yuca, corn on the cob, and papas criollas (seasoned new potatoes). Then there are the grab and go foods like bollo (buns steamed in corn husks), tamales (corn dough steamed in banana leafs), and arepas (fried corn dough with a variety of fillings). The most popular is arepas de huevos (arepas filled with egg), which are the pinnacle of street food in Cartagena.

Is water safe in Colombia? 

For the big cities of Bogota and Medellin, yes. Everywhere else, it is a different story. 

As is true for many countries in Latin America, urban tap water is much cleaner and safer than rural areas and the countryside. But, that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying all that a country has to offer. 

In lieu of buying too many plastic water bottles and contributing to plastic waste (plus, what would you do if you didn’t have access to bottled water?), opt for a reusable bottle and carry a UV pen so that you can purify water wherever you are (water purification tablets are also an option). That way, you can be free to roam while not needing to worry about your health, or feel guilty for your frequent opting for single-use plastic. 

The take-away? 

The food and water of Colombia is not something to be feared, only watched-out for. There’s a different set of rules, but once you learn them, you will be able to navigate the food and drink scene with ease and peace of mind. Now, go find the best street food you possibly can, and brag to your friends about it forever. 

Looking for more information? 

Safety in Colombia

Scams in Colombia

Solo Travel in Colombia

Getting Around: Transportation in Colombia

The Lost City, Colombia

Hidden in the peaks of Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains is the Lost City (or Ciudad Perdida, in Spanish), an archaeological site believed to have been founded in the year 800, and discovered in 1972. Treasure looters were hiking in the mountains when they came across stone steps which, when followed, led them to the ancient city ruins.

It was only when the ceramic and tomb artefacts from the abandoned site began to circulate the black market that archaeologists pursued the leads and discovered the Lost City for themselves a few years later. Reconstruction began almost immediately and by 1982, and tourist hikes began shortly thereafter.

Today, visitors to Colombia can trek the legendary road to the Lost City, accompanied by an authorised tour company, to appreciate the 200 stone structures, 169 terraces, ceremonial buildings and more.

The starting point for the trek is Santa Marta, so this is where you will stay before and possibly after your hike, and where your belongings will be stored since you’ll only be taking the bare essentials in your backpack.

Take a look at our brief guide to Colombia’s Lost City to see if it’s for you.

How long is the Lost City trek?

To access the Lost City visitors must trek around 42 km in total, including a climb of 1,200 steep stone steps through the dense jungle, so the hike is not for the faint hearted. Tours are typically 4, 5 or 6 days in duration, so you have the option to select the number of days based on your preferred hiking intensity and your physical capabilities.

Hikers will need to be in fairly good health and be physically fit in order to undertake the arduous journey, but we can assure you that the reward is deserving of the physical demand!

Is the Lost City trek safe?

You might have heard about the conflict that used to be rife in the region of the Lost City, so it’s understandable if you have some safety concerns. For several years in the early 2000’s the trek was closed due to the conflict, but since it completely reopened in 2005 and there have been no problems – big or small – since.

The Lost City is patrolled by the Colombian army, so you might be a little taken aback to begin with when you first catch sight of an armed officer. But rest assured that they are there for your safety and their presence has been, and continues to be effective, enabling thousands upon thousands of people to enjoy the wonders of the trek to the Lost City year after year.

As far as the hike goes, be aware of the physical requirements as the trail includes steep rocky climbs, river crossings and 1,200 ancient steps to ascend (all amongst the heat and humidity of the Colombian jungle).

And how high is the Lost City Colombia?

The trek to Colombia’s Lost City is a tough one and should only be considered for those in good physical health. But amongst the conditions and terrain we’ve just described, one thing you won’t have to add to the mix, unlike many of the best South American treks, is a high altitude – thankfully!

The highest points of the Lost City trek reach between 900-1,200 metres, so you need not worry about the effects of high altitude climbs.

Since you are only able to complete the Lost City trail with an authorised tour company, rest assured that you’ll be in good, safe hands!

Top tips to keep you safe, sane and comfortable!

If you’ve read our guide and you think that the Lost City trek is for you, here are some hints and tips to ensure you make the most out of your hike and have a safe and enjoyable time:

Prepare: plan and book your tour in advance to familiarise yourself with the company, their recommendations and advice

Hydrate: the trek is physically demanding so make sure you have plenty of water and you take the time to hydrate throughout the day

Don’t leave the beaten track: you will be hiking with a guide, and that is for good reason. They know the path, they know the terrain and they know how to keep you safe, so always stay on the path with your guide to ensure maximum safety

Be realistic: assess your physical health and check out the different tours that are available (4, 5 or 6 days). Only commit to the trek that meets your physical capabilities so you can enjoy the experience to the utmost

Bare necessities: it can be tempting to go overboard when it comes to packing, but you’re going to be hiking for a number of days so you want to stay comfortable. Don’t overload yourself with things you don’t need, and read your tour companies recommended packing list for inspiration

Cover photo source: https://medellinguru.com/ciudad-perdida/

The Tatacoa Desert

Deserts are not what comes to mind for most people when they think about Colombia. Jungles – yes. Great coast-lines – check. Mountains – definitely. But what deserts are in Colombia? In fact there are two true deserts, the desert Colombia shares with Venezuela (La Guajira) and the more centrally-located Tatacoa Desert. This majestic place should not be missed if you’re in that part of the country, and it’s a desert with two different faces. The gently-undulating rocky plateau of the Grey Desert could easily double up as the Lunar surface in certain areas, whereas the more barren areas of the Red Desert bares more than a passing resemblance to Mars. How do I get to the Tatacoa Desert? Read on!

Getting To Tatacoa Desert

Not as difficult as you might expect. First task is to get to the county capital, Neiva. There are inexpensive buses running from Bogota and other major cities (takes about 6 hours), and even cheap flights landing at Neiva Airport. From the local bus station you can catch a “colectivo” (a shared small bus or van which collects enough passengers before going to the destination) to the town of Villavieja, which will take you around 45 minutes. From there it’s only a 15 minutes taxi ride to the desert. Not a problem. Alternatively you can avoid the airport queues and multiple buses by taking a private car from Bogota to Neiva via the Tatacoa Desert.

Things To Do In The Tatacoa Desert

The stunning landscapes of the desert will take up much of your time. The winding canyons of and tall pillars of rock in the Red Desert are a delight to explore, and before digital cameras many people would have run out of film. With the sparse vegetation limited to some hard trees, succulents, and cacti (up to 5m/16ft high!) it looks like the setting of an American Wild West movie. Moving on to the Grey you gain the surreal feeling of being on the Moon, with it’s barren Luna landscape providing a disquieting beauty. Bizarrely enough there’s a small swimming pool here to cool off in.

Away from the daytime the Tatacoa Desert is known for its stargazing opportunities. Not only is there no major settlements anywhere near the desert but it even has its own observatory! The Tatacoa Observatory offers the chance to use it’s telescopes to view distant astronomical objects, and perhaps even discuss the stars and solar bodies with it’s resident astronomer. If you time your visit for the arrival of a new moon then you’re in for a real treat.


Bike tours of the area, which is a great way to explore for a couple of hours, can be arranged from local companies such as Tatacoa BiciTour. There are plenty of walking guides out there too who will take you through the winding canyons. Both of these options will need to be arranged in advance.

How To Stay Safe In Tatacoa Desert

Firstly, it’s a desert. It can reach 40°C (104°F) and there is little to no shade. You need to avoid sunstroke at all costs so you’ll need a hat, light clothing, and plenty of drinking water (carry a litre per hour as a minimum). Also best if you can schedule your visit outside of the hottest hours, especially if you’re going to be there for more than an hour.

There’s also a good number of insects that may bother you out there, mostly harmless but they will include mosquitos. Take a bottle of good insect repellent if you’re intolerant of them, or if mosquitoes tend to find you particularly tasty. There are also a number of poisonous spiders and scorpions native to the area but these are much more likely to stay out of your way.

Lastly, if you’re visiting late in the day you’d be best off taking a torch with you. There’s little in the way of electricity or lighting so you will need an independent light source of some kind.

The best beaches in Colombia

As a country bordering the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Colombia is blessed with some of the most beautiful coastline in South America. While its center has a mountainous, volcanic landscape with the peaks of the Andes at its heart, the north and western coasts are lined with tremendous tropical beaches.

Here we will introduce you to some of the best Colombia beaches – you decide which you want to visit first!

Beaches on Colombia’s Pacific coast

Less-visited than its neighbouring Caribbean coast, Colombia’s Pacific beaches are more untouched, less developed and dripping in biodiverse beauty.

Go off the beaten track in El Valle

Just west of Medellin, El Valle is a small, isolated town offering quiet beaches backed by tropical jungle. The small fishing town is known for its marine life and biodiversity, and in particular is a great place to observe the sea turtles that nest there from September to December as they emerge from the ocean during the day, and lay eggs during the night.

June to October, and especially September, are also prime-time for whale-watching just off the coast of the beaches of El Valle.

For a bustling beach day, head to Playa Blanca, Isla Baru

Known as one of the best beaches in Cartagena, and certainly its most famous, Playa Blanca is famed for its turquoise, crystal-clear waters and golden sand; a picture-perfect beach if ever you have seen one. Here you can hire jet skis or partake in other water sports, and there are some great snorkeling spots just a few minutes boat ride away. Between July and October it’s possible to spot humpback whales!

Playa Blanca is not a relaxing, tranquil beach. It is a busier, more developed one, so come early to avoid the crowds who flock there during the busy season in December and January, and visit on weekdays if you can.

Have an adventure with watersports at Rodadero

Further south of Playa Blanca is Rodadero, a popular tourist beach spot on Colombia’s Pacific coast but more laid-back than Playa Blanca. Backed by a mountainous landscape there’s no doubt that Rodadero is a visual treat, not to mention the white sand and beautiful blue waters.

Vendors line the beach selling water activities such as sailing, diving, paddle boating and jet-skiing, so there’s plenty of adventure to be had at Rodadero. 

Indulge in isolation at Guachalito Beach

Nuquí, a small fishing village, is home to Playa Guachalito, an isolated, undisturbed beach that makes for a perfect escape into total relaxation. It is largely untouched and far less developed than other beaches along the coast, and rich in sea life making for a superb snorkeling session if you want to immerse into the clear waters.

The jungle begins to intrude on the beach in this untamed tropical paradise and the scenery is out of this world. From July to October hump-back whales visit the region to give birth so it’s a great time for whale watching. 

Tierra Bomba Island

Just off the coast of Cartagena is Isla Tierrabomba, which can be reached by boat from the mainland in just 15 minutes. A day trip to the island promises a tranquil escape from the city, complete with golden sands and bright blue ocean to bask in the Colombian sun. On the island there are a handful of hotels and day resorts ready to give you the ultimate beach experience.

The best beach club Cartagena is said to be Blue Apple, a Balearic inspired beach club, restaurant and boutique hotel. Offering water sports, fresh cuisine using local produce, relaxing music and delectable drinks and spa treatments to help you unwind, this is the ultimate way to while away the time on Tierra Bomba Island.

Tropical paradise on the Caribbean coast

Some of the best beaches in Colombia sit on the tropical Caribbean coast, and the best beach towns in Colombia are frequently said to be Santa Marta, Barranquilla and Punta Gallinas, each with their own unique offerings.

If you are visiting the Caribbean coast, check out the highlights below.

Chaos and the calm at Santa Marta Bay

Not strictly one of the best beaches in Colombia, but without doubt the most beautiful bay, Santa Marta bay is one of the main attractions in the coastal city. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, visit the marina or have a spot to eat in one of the nearby seafood restaurants to take a break from the chaos of the city.

Enjoy a slower pace of life at Playa Cristal

One of the best beaches in Santa Marta (well, just north of Santa Marta) is Playa Cristal in the magical Tayrona National Park. A quiet beach with calm, gentle waves is a favorite for those looking to relax and take in the tranquil surroundings that the local landscape has to offer. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, and has made many top twenty lists for the most beautiful beach in the world.

This is thanks to its mountainous backdrop, coral filled waters and stunning marine life, that can be explored by swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.

Pretty in paradise at Cabo San Juan Beach

Also located in Tayrona National Park is El Cabo San Juan beach. Equally untouched and undeveloped, it is an idyllic jungle beach just 30 minutes outside of Santa Marta, set right on the edge of the rainforest.

If you’re looking for a beach stay rather than a beach day, Colombia’s Caribbean coast is home to some of the best beach resorts in Colombia, offering everything from child-friendly hotels with a long list of amenities and impressive entertainment packages to luxury, tranquil retreats for the adult audience, complete with indulgent spas and world class fine-dining.

Cover photo cover: https://www.contiki.com/six-two/best-beaches-colombia/

What to see in Bogota in one day

If you’re lucky enough to have a free day in Bogota, you won’t be short on things to keep you busy and you may have to prioritize your activities.

The beating heart of Colombia, Bogota is the country’s vibrant, lively capital city focussed around La Candelaria, the historic center. This vast, sprawling, gritty city is steeped in culture and history, and with so much to do you’ll be longing for more time to spend in Bogota.

So, how do I spend a day in Bogota? Here are some of our suggestions that you may wish to consider.

Beat the crowds and head to Monserrate

If you only have one day in Bogota, you cannot miss Cerro de Monserrate, the mountain rising over the downtown area with a white church at its peak. Monserrate dominates Bogota’s skyline and while it can be viewed from below, the views from the summit simply cannot be beaten.

The panoramic views are simply spectacular and can be best appreciated at sunrise or sunset, so either get up early and start your day with awe-inspiring sights, or plan your itinerary to make sure you can get there to watch the sun go down.

An important religious site for tourists and pilgrims, the church atop the mountain can be reached by hiking (or crawling!) but since you’re short on time, the funicular railway or cable car is the way to go.

Explore the historic center, La Candelaria

The most popular destination for tourists, La Candelaria is a colonial district and the official first neighborhood of Bogota. Peppered with old houses, churches, theatres, museums and buildings built in Spanish colonial, art deco and baroque architectural styles, La Candelaria contains some of the best things to do in Bogota in one day, and the cobblestone streets can be explored on foot.

Calle del Embudo

The district’s most colourful street with buildings painted in bright, bold hues is unavoidable during your walking tour of La Candelaria. The narrow, winding street is decorated with impressive street art and full-wall murals, so make sure you keep your camera out.

Bolívar Square

This is Bogota’s main, central square at the very heart of La Candelaria and is lined with historical buildings dating as far back as the early 1800’s, so it’s the perfect place to marvel at different architectural styles. It houses the Palace of Justice – including the Supreme Court of Justice for Colombia – the National Cathedral of Colombia and the National Capitol. 

Gold Museum

The Museo del Oro contains more than 34,000 pieces of gold, laid out over three floors across a number of themed rooms. Named one of the best museums on the planet by National Geographic magazine, this impressive museum showcases the largest collection of prehispanic gold work in the world, where visitors can learn how indigenous people used these gold creations as part of daily life and in sacred rituals.

Botero Museum

The Museo Botero was founded in the year 2000 and primarily showcases the work of Colombian artist, Fernando Botero. It is open to the public free of charge and contains more than 120 pieces of art created and donated by Botero, and more than 80 pieces created by other, international artists (including the likes of Picasso and Monet to name just a couple!). You may not have heard the name Fernando Botero, but you’ll probably recognise some of his pieces by his distinguished and distinctive style.

Take a quick self-guided tour of Usaquén

Another of Bogota’s most popular and visited districts is Usaquén, sitting just north of the city. Filled with picturesque, narrow streets this laid-back neighbourhood is a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of the touristic center. Flea markets, unique shops and delicious independent restaurants line the streets of Usaquén so it could be a great spot to stop for some lunch!

How many days do you need in Bogota?

While you can squeeze in the highlights in Bogota in one day, the truth is, there’s a lot more to explore and you can only really scratch the surface in just one day!

Typically, most visitors tend to spend 2-4 nights in the Colombian capital in order to make the most of all it has to offer. You can read more about the best things to do in Bogota in our detailed guide.

Is Bogota expensive to visit?

Compared to other parts of Colombia, the answer is yes. Compared to other parts of the world, though, for a capital city in particular you might be pleasantly surprised. Here we have broken down the average costs for the three main categories most consider when travelling abroad; accommodation, food and transport.

Accommodation

Like most cities throughout the world, Bogota is home to hotels, hostels, B&B’s, apartments and more, so there is something out there for everyone regardless of their taste and preference. Ranging from 1 star, low-budget accommodation to 5 star, upscale resorts, there’s a Bogota hotel for all price points and budgets and, if you shop around and plan your trip in advance, you can even find some real bargains on the higher-end hotels.

Prices vary by season and availability, but if you’re planning your trip with at least a few months notice you can expect a 4 star hotel to cost in the region of 40-60 EUR per night based on double occupancy. For a 5 star hotel, the price jumps to around 70-100 EUR per night.

As far as capital cities go, Bogota can be considered great value for money when booking a hotel!

Food

Despite declaring independence from Spain in 1810, the Spanish influence on Colombian cuisine is still present (and that’s not a bad thing). We know how important food is in the enjoyment of travel and your trip to Colombia will certainly not disappoint – we’re confident that your tastebuds will be suitability tantalised!

Colombian food is a rich culmination of European, African and indigenous flavours and ingredients based on meat, potatoes, corn and rice.

As the capital city, Bogota is brimming with restaurants offering local and international meals at all price points. 

On average, though, you can expect to pay between;

12,000-15,000 Pesos (2.69-3.37 EUR) per person for a typical local meal,

300-500 Pesos (0.6-.011 EUR) for a piece of street food (such as an empanada),

25,000-30,000 Pesos (5.61-6.73 EUR) per person for a meal in a Western-style restaurant

More expensive options are available for those seeking fine-dining restaurants headed up by internationally-recognised chefs, of which Bogota has plenty of options on offer.

If you want to know about food and water safety in Colombia, click here: Food and Water Safety in Colombia

Transport

The TransMilenio is Bogota’s extensive bus network – the largest Bus Rapid Transit system in the world – providing frequent, inexpensive services from early in the morning (4:30 AM) to late at night (11 PM). It is convenient, accessible and easy to use. A mandatory rechargeable card will cost 5,000 Pesos (or 1.12 EUR) and the cost of a one-way ticket within the metro area is 2,300 Pesos (0.52 EUR). Typically, most visitors can budget on spending around 20,000 Pesos (4.50 EUR) each in a single day in Bogota.

Tayrona National Park

Situated on Colombia’s caribbean coast, the Tayrona National park is a Colombian treasure. Located a short distance from Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park is one of the best things to do in Santa Marta. The mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta line up along the coast, which is lined with a few of the most beautiful and serene beaches in the country, coconut trees, and dense rainforest. This unexpected paradise boasts beautiful rainforests, beaches, mountains, flora, and fauna. The Tayrona National Park is a natural reservation, but has played a part in ecotourism, with archaeological findings and places to spot the native fauna, it is Colombia’s Coastal gem. 

It is important to note that for centuries the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta has been inhabited by indigenous tribes who still reside on parts of the Sierra to this day. While their reservations sit along the borders of Tayrona National Park, sacred ancestral lands overlap into it, including the mountainous regions as well as some lagoon and beach areas. The four indigenous tribes are Kankuamo, Kogui, Wiwa, and Arhuaco. You can learn about these different indigenous tribes while at Tayrona National Park, as it is recommended to be respectful of the sacred areas in and around the park. 

Things to do in Tayrona National Park

You will truly be impressed by the amount of activities available in Tayrona, from hiking, to swimming, to historical sites, you may even need more than a day here, as it is one of the top things to do in Colombia.

Hiking

Tayrona National Park has a selection of trails for both beginners and advanced hikers. Trails include hikes through the forest, hikes to the beaches, and hikes with historical significance. Whether you want to spend one hour, or up to four hours wandering the forests and the hills, you are sure to be impressed by the lush flora and active fauna all around you! If you choose to hike or take a tour of the park, it is recommended that a certified guide be hired, so they can show you all of the Park’s treasures.

Snorkeling and Diving

A unique activity facilitated at Tayrona National Park, is the opportunity to snorkel and scuba dive! In the Neguanje section of the park, Playa Cristal is a lovely beach where you will find expert guides with equipment rentals, ready to show you a beautiful underwater world. If you’re more of a diver, then head over to the Isla Aguja and Granate section of the park, where you can rent equipment and take lessons from the experts at the diving school of Taganga. Colorful fish and underwater creatures await your discovery at Tayrona National Park.

Cultural Heritage Observation

Two trails in the Tayrona National Park lead to the observation site of one of the archaeological findings discovered in the Tayrona National Park. The park used to be a territory of the Tayrona civilization many hundreds of years ago. This archaeological finding, called Pueblito, includes some of the remains from the Tayrona Civilization, how they have lasted for these hundreds of years is truly impressive and a must see while visiting Tayrona National Park. 

Things to See in Tayrona National Park

Fauna

Among mammals, reptiles, birds, and sea creatures, there is an abundance of wildlife in Tayrona National Park. While hiking through the forest with your guide, you should be able to spot sloths, armadillos, deer, various kinds of monkeys, and many more creatures. Make sure to keep an eye out for the elusive jaguar, spotting this big cat would be remarkable. Tayrona National Park is a great place for amateur and experienced bird watchers alike, with almost 400 hundred species of birds flying around, you’re sure to spot something you’ve never seen before. If you choose to head down to the beaches and snorkel, you’ll be able to see various coral reefs, mollusks, and different crustaceans. With this many species, there are so many things to see in Tayrona.   

Beaches

Many of the beaches in the Park, while beautiful, are not completely suitable for swimming. After a hike, there is nothing more satisfying than relaxing on a white sandy beach where you can rest and enjoy the sound of the waves. Some of our recommendations are as follows. Playa La Piscina is one of the few beaches you can swim in, as the waters are calm and clear blue, it will be the perfect to take a dip. Playa Cabo San Juan del Guia is the beach with iconic views, when people think of Tayrona National Park, they think of the picturesque view of the mountains behind Playa Cabo San Juan de Guia, complete with the little hut where people can actually stay the night! One of our favorites is Playa Cristal, because at this beach you can snorkel, swim and relax in this little crescent shaped piece of paradise. Whichever beach you decide to go to, it will be your little slice of heaven waiting just beyond the forest.

What to Bring to Tayrona National Park 

The Park is so vast, you will definitely be spending at least a few hours there, below is a list of items that are recommended to bring/have with you for a day at there!

  • Light clothing (cotton recommended), long sleeve and pants option for protection from the elements when hiking
  • Adequate footwear suitable for hiking, and maybe a waterproof option when visiting the beaches
  • Bathing suit and small towel
  • Sunglasses
  • Cap
  • Light rain jacket (when visiting during rainy season)
  • Sunscreen and bug repellent 
  • Cash (use of cards is unlikely in shops)

Tayrona National Park Information

The opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A limited number of tourists are able to enter the park at one time, you are able to organize the reservation through a certified guide, or by contacting the park directly. The entrance fee is 54,500 COP (about 12.25 EUR), children under the age 5-12 , as well as students receive a discount, if you are a student you must present a student ID and a valid ID confirming you are under 25. It is important to note that the sacred sights of the four indigenous tribes are not accessible and bathing in the sea is not permitted after 6:00 PM. All rules and regulations are in place for your safety and for the preservation of the park. 

Cover photo source: https://vivid.travel/en-gb/south-central-america/colombia/tayrona