Say you're going to Colombia to someone and we can bet on what they might be thinking. Something along the lines of the stereotypes unfairly associated with it in the past. Say it to us and you'll see us swoon. Why? Well the Caribbean sea, the Andes, colonial cities and the Amazon are just a few of the reasons. Yes Colombia has gotten hold of our hearts and through a renaissance, Colombia is opening its doors to travellers wanting to appreciate all of its untouched charms first hand.
So. How to do it? Bogota for your first few days is a great place to start. La Candalaria, should definitely be on your list of places to go, with all the museums and prominent landmarks along with Plaza Bolivar which has changed from a market place, a bull ring and even a place of execution it captures much of the city's history. At night there are two main places to be seen, Parque 93, where the locals hangout in vibrant bars and clubs and Usaquen a more relaxed drinking area with a pretty square and church. Visiting Villa de Leyva, a picturesque colonial town with white washed buildings, cobbled streets and characteristic dark green balconies is also one to add to the list.
Next, we suggest you hop on a short flight to Armenia and transfer to Pereira to spend two nights in a Finca, a traditional farm building, in the heart of Colombia's coffee region - a stopover which no trip to Colombia would be complete without. Jump on a horse and ride through Colombia's statement landscape; rivers, hills and coffee plantations all to the majestic background of the Andes Mountains. Another easy flight to Santa Marta and you will be taken from inland mountains to coastal beaches.
Head up to Parque Nacional Tayrona for a two night stay in an eco-hab. A great experience and a beach lovers paradise with blue waters, white sands and green palm trees and jungle. Swim, snorkel, dive, trek through the jungle or simply kick back and relax.
Cartagena, Colombia's most bustling city, is booming with activity and the perfect place to end your trip. The city is listed as a world heritage site and full of brightly coloured buildings, narrow cobbled streets and cafes and bars socially sprawled out around several plazas. A final excursion to the Volcan de Lodo el Totumo is definitely worth it, a chance to smother yourself in therapeutic mud before washing it off in the lagoon. To toast the end of an incredible holiday there is only one place to go - Café del Mar.
We could go on and on with places to go and things to see but we understand time is limited and all trips, sadly, have to come to an end. Nevertheless, we guarantee this trip will open your eyes, make hairs stand on end and undoubtedly make Colombia a place to re-visit.
