8 stunning Colombian travel spots for 2025

If you’ve any preconceived notions about what Colombia is or isn’t, visiting this astonishing nation will throw you for a loop. Once associated with the drug trade and violent cartels, Colombia and its old Hollywood images are giving way to a country that’s ideal for learning salsa, exploring colonial cities, and swimming with dolphins.

Though some travelers are hesitant about visiting Colombia, locals will always comment, “The only risk is wanting to stay.” They acknowledge the country’s turbulent past but highlight its newborn attractiveness. This sentiment points to how the current Colombian travel experience is no less than captivating.

This country of quaint towns, historical intrigue, and sublime national parks is just waiting to be discovered. Boasting some of the lesser-known Latin American attractions, little-visited architectural treats, sweeping landscapes, sizzling salsa, and the best boutique hotels in South America, Colombia packs a real punch for your all-important adventure-filled getaway.

Below, we look at places that tour operators have found to be the most rewarding travel destinations in Colombia – one of the world’s best-kept secrets! Whether you’re into adventure sports, flamboyant fiestas, architectural wonders, or exotic wildlife encounters – a new, magnetic Colombia is calling.  

1. Cartagena: Colombia’s flagship city

It’s a no-brainer why visitors to Colombia choose Cartagena as their top destination. They’re drawn by the city’s historic Old Town district, an irresistible maze of cobblestone streets brimming with stately colonial churches, convents, and mansions dating back to the 17th century. Adding to the alluring mix, other colonial-era structures have been painstakingly transformed into all manner of sophisticated hotels, trendy restaurants, and sizzling nightclubs – converting the district into a magnet for international travelers.

Another inviting feature of Old Town is its six miles of a centuries-old stone wall encircling the historic quarter; the wall was constructed to protect the district from pirate attacks and foreign invaders. Fortunately, much of this city within a city remains wonderfully preserved.

As further protection, standing on a hill above the Old City is the imposing San Felipe de Barajas fortress – the greatest citadel ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies. In its day, the fort was impregnable, resisting all attempts to storm it. Today, this massive fortification is part of the Cartagena UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose ramparts, tunnels, and parapets are explored by history buffs and tourists alike.

After a full day of deep diving into Old Town’s historic edifications, streets, restaurants, and shops, visitors can head to one of its famous salsa clubs to witness and join in on one of the country’s most important cultural expressions – and have a ton of fun in the process. Spend the night at a famed Old Town salsa nightclub like Casa Havana or Donde Fidel, where effort, rather than technique, is all that matters! 

Elegant Cartagenian accommodations

Colombia’s crown jewel on the Caribbean coast, Cartagena’s luxury accommodations combine timeless colonial character with sumptuous modern comfort.

Located within the walled city are numerous smaller, high-end boutique hotels such as Casa Pestagua, Casa San Agustin, and Hotel Boutique Anandá, as well as the larger Sofitel Santa Clara. Our favorite is Casa San Agustin. You too are sure to find it a stunning example of a top-tier hotel serving up the perfect balance of relaxation and cultural immersion within Old Town.

San Agustin consists of three houses “re-designed as an ode to our past and with an eye for the future,” evoking Colombian heritage in every detail yet coupled with modern luxury for the most demanding traveler. Wooden-beamed ceilings and wall frescos infuse one’s stay with the charm of San Agustin’s 17th-century beginnings as the breeze off the Caribbean Sea wanders over the white-washed walls.

Still, other opulent Cartegena hotels are situated outside the city’s historic center along its scenic coastline. Hotels like the InterContinental Cartagena and Karibana Beach and Golf Resort artfully merge streamlined, contemporary architecture with coastal-inspired decor for a luxuriant beach resort experience with easy access to Cartagena’s historic Old Town.

For travelers seeking both authenticity and indulgence, Cartagena’s luxury accommodations offer not just lavish places to stay, but gateways to the city’s rich culture and scenic beauty. 

2. Bogota: Where modernity meets tradition

A thriving, modern South American city of 8 million, the Colombian capital of Bogota offers nightlife, culture, and music in spades.

As the beating heart of Bogota is the La Candelaria district, no visit to the capital would be complete without spending some time in this vibrant quarter of brightly painted houses, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored Art Deco buildings. In this historic district, even the most non-descript corners are adorned with some of the world’s coolest street art, which is bound to change your perhaps jaded perception of graffiti.

But more than street murals, a wealth of top-tier art galleries and museums await discovery in La Candelaria. First among these is the Botero Museum, where you’ll marvel at the fantastical work of the country’s most renowned artist, Fernando Botero. Nearby, you’ll strike it rich when discovering a museum of gold and, just beyond, a priceless collection of captivating pre-Colombian artifacts.

Other corners of the city’s cultural scene are also exploding, including stately theatrical productions, cutting-edge film festivals, and booming concert arenas where musicians following in the footsteps of one-time residents Shakira, Juanes, and Fonseca mix pop, rock, and traditional cumbia into a new Colombian musical form.
From the colorful cobblestone streets of La Candelaria to the thumping techno-nightlife of Parque de la 93, Bogota offers sights, sounds, and pleasures for all tastes, ages, and interests. 

Refined accommodations in Bogota

The vibrant capital of Colombia, Bogotá provides discerning travelers with an outstanding choice of upscale accommodations, providing both sublime comfort and smart sophistication, as well as excellent service.

Nestled amidst the city’s bustling urban environment, these modern stays beautifully meld into the busy urban environment while also deeply connecting to local culture. A highlight of these hotels is they provide respite from the big-city hustle and bustle, whether situated toward Bogota’s green foothills, like Casa Medina, or located in the pulsating Zona Rosa entertainment district, such as Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia.

For a high-end stay in the city’s historic Candelaria district, Hotel de La Opera is an authentic jewel and our favorite. Thanks to its location in the city’s colonial heart, La Opera allows guests to explore the beginnings of Colombia, as well as Bogota’s rich heritage. Set in a restored colonial building that oozes history, the hotel’s rooms feature classic decor with all the modern comforts. At the hotel’s two onsite restaurants, visitors savor true Colombian and Mediterranean dining. Ideal for urban explorers, Hotel de la Opera promises an exceptional stay in Bogotá’s most captivating district.

Why stay anywhere else other than this or other high-end accommodations in the Colombian capital; ones that perfectly pair refreshing urban adventure and indulgent relaxation. 

3. Cali: “The world capital of salsa”

Southwest Colombia’s major city has seen a colorful influx of people throughout its history, from the indigenous peoples to the arrival of the Spanish during colonial rule and the African slaves that came to work the sugarcane plantations in the 18th century. The local caleños couldn’t be prouder of their mixed heritage, which brings cultural flair and style to every corner of the city, qualities that are the living embodiment of Cali’s famous energy.

By day, Cali offers loads of these worthwhile experiences, including those in the San Antonio barrio, or Old Cali, now the fashionable place for budding bohemians. Colonial houses have been transformed into stylish cafés, hipster bars have sprung up, and classy restaurants are now the norm. On the cobbled streets, musicians strum salsa favorites and artists sell their wares. Saunter up to the 18th-century church where couples sit and enjoy the city views. For the bigger picture, climb even further up the hill to the enormous statue of Christ the Redeemer for panoramic views over the sprawling city below.

But it’s at night when Cali really takes off. This is when you’ll soon get the feel of this sultry city by exploring its up-and-coming restaurants, trendy bars, cafés, and sassy salsa venues across town. The dynamic neighborhood of Granada, an area flush with the best restaurants in town, is a great location to start in for drinks and dinner before winding up on La Sexta (6th Avenue) and hitting the clubs.

Salsa may be the key draw for visitors, but you don’t have to be a dance floor diva to fall in love with this dynamic city of fun and flair. 

Upbeat Cali hotels

As more and more well-heeled travelers are flocking to the “salsa capital of the world,” to accommodate these globetrotting guests, Cali is seeing a growing number of luxury hotels – ones combining historic charm with modern elegance and personalized service.

Against the backdrop of scenic mountainsides, these high-end properties of modern sophistication and refined taste combine with the lively cultural character of the city.

Posh accommodations like The Spiwak and Casa San Agustín are strategically located away from the business center, though close to leading attractions such as the city’s hip retrofitted historic districts, a trendy restaurant row, and animated nightlife where salsa culture takes center stage.

Though the city itself is known for being pumped with energy, within these hotel settings a peaceful atmosphere reigns. Guests can relax and reinvigorate at these upscale accommodations, availing themselves of serene courtyards, world-class spas, and infinity pools to die for.

Completing an experience in pure indulgence, lavish rooms and suites of these retreats come complete with all the bells and whistles, from stylish decor to luxurious linens. In-house dining excellence is another feature worth spotlighting, as gourmet chefs provide a new culinary experience, blending local flavors with international cuisine.

Some of the most comfortable and sophisticated accommodations in Cali, these luxury options are ideally set for relaxation and urban adventure, encapsulating the passion and vigor of this vibrant Colombian city. 

4. The Coffee Triangle: Stunning countryside and an enchanting traditional way of life

It’s well known that Colombia practically runs on coffee, which is why its producing some of the best coffee in the world is a source of great pleasure and pride. Owing to fertile mountain hillsides that deliver perfect soil and slightly cooler temperatures, the ultimate conditions for bean cultivation have blessed Colombia’s Eje Cafetero (Coffee Triangle), an area spanning three of the country’s departments growing Colombia’s magic arabica beans.

In the triangle, enquiring travelers are invited to take a deep dive into coffee culture through fascinating day tours and homey overnight stays offered by family-run fincas (farms).

Notwithstanding, there’s even more to the region than a collection of intriguing coffee plantations. An important corner of Colombia’s famous Coffee Triangle is Cocora Valley. In fact, this is what almost every visitor really comes here to see.

This peaceful valley is a conservation area for the famed Quindío wax palm tree. Strewn like giant matchsticks across the landscape, these impossibly tall palm trees (the tallest in the world) can grow up to 200 feet high. The Cocora Valley therefore invites you to discover these amazing trees via its many footpaths or explore the amazing valley on horseback. 

Surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery and fertile countryside, the nearby town of Salento certainly fits in with the vibrant yet peaceful landscape. Walk down the main street past a brilliant palette of bright red doors, yellow balconies, blue banisters, purple window frames and pink eaves. Inside these beautiful colonial houses, artisans are busy at work making all manner of knickknacks using traditional methods. Leisurely walks about the town can be combined with nearby coffee farm tours and tastings as well as explorations of the countryside on foot or horseback.  

Top-tier accommodations in the Coffee Triangle

While Colombia’s coffee triangle is known for its rolling mountain landscapes and aromatic coffee plantations, the area also offers a variety of upscale accommodations providing a compelling blend of luxury and nature.

Ultra-extravagant hotel-haciendas in the region include the Buenavista Hacienda and Hacienda Bambusa. Closer to the picturesque town of Salento is another outstanding lodge: the Kawa Mountain Retreat. It’s situated in a privileged area where mountains, palm forests, coffee fincas, and the river of this enchanting area meet. The mountain retreat offers guests full immersion in nature, with the added benefit of reaching the scenic town of colorful colonial houses in less than a 5-minute walk.

An example of environmental sustainability, the lodge was designed and developed with organic architectural processes in mind; finding inspiration from its unique and diverse flora, framed within the coffee triangle region. The retreat has all the facilities of a pastoral, yet elegant architectural space offering its guests an intimate connection with the natural environment, coupled with luxury service. 

5. Modern Medellín: Beyond the stereotypes

Though Medellin was once known as the world’s most dangerous city, this former narco epicenter of the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar has been transformed into a modern metropolis that punches well above its weight.

Today, it’s easy to see why Medellin has earned the title of “The Most Livable City in South America;” it’s easy to get around in, blessed with some of the best weather on the planet, über friendly, and arguably even more fun than the capital city.

The city’s ideal climate means that there’s no excuse for staying pent up inside. By day, visitors can get out and explore the El Centro district, the real heartbeat of present-day Medellín. There, you’ll discover the entire Plaza Botero filled with larger-than-life bronze sculptures of local icon Fernando Botero. To gain an even deeper understanding of the city’s past, lose yourself in an eye-opening graffiti tour through the once-dreaded/now-applauded Comuna 13 barrio.

It’s guaranteed that after making the most of Medellin’s perfect climate, endless activities, and vibrant nightlife, you’ll find yourself wanting to stick around for weeks on end. 

Discover Medellin’s finest upscale accommodations

Medellín’s remarkable transformation in recent years is reflected in an explosion in upscale accommodations characterized by their blend of luxury, comfort, and local flair.

Leading Medellín hotels in themselves are enough to write home about. Stylish frontrunners like The Charlee Hotel, Hotel Marquee, Casa Mosaiko Primer Parque Laureles are located in prime areas, such as the exclusive El Poblado and Laureles neighborhoods, where they can proudly boast of elegant interiors, contemporary amenities, and attentive staff.

Our pick of the litter is Hotel Charlee, now a Poblado mainstay. The moment you pull up to Charlee, you won’t fail to be impressed by its contemporary design. Entering your lavish room, it will be difficult to tell if you’re more impressed by the swank furnishings or the stunning city views. And though the hotel is surrounded by the city’s most desirable restaurants, clubs, and bars, it will also be difficult to pull yourself away from Hotel Charlee’s world-class amenities – ones like its rooftop Envy pool and bar, gym, wellness center, on-site dining, and more. 

6. San Andres & Providencia islands: Paradise found

Frankly, there isn’t a great deal Colombian about San Andres Island and its neighboring Providencia Island. Sitting way out in the Caribbean Sea, the cheerful, laidback atmosphere of these sister beauty spots feels a little more Jamaican, if anything. Almost 500 miles from continental Colombia, there are no direct flights from the mainland, which means that inhabitants are further cut off from the rest of Latin America. Because of this, you won’t hear Colombian Spanish spoken here, but rather English Creole, dating way back to when the island was a British colony. As for the affable inhabitants, they go about their days living a traditional way of life, seemingly uninterested in profiting from the exquisite beauty of their island home.

As stunning as these islands are—with their white sandy shores, leaning palms, aquamarine waters, and out-of-this-world snorkeling—there’s a warm local vibe and not a high-rise hotel in sight. San Andres and Providencia tick every box for a dream tropical-island getaway, just don’t be put off by the journey to get there! Many people are…which is why it remains spectacularly isolated, untainted by tourism.

A visit to either is all about switching off from life’s worries, even forgetting what time of day it is and simply embracing the here and now. Spend your time discovering deserted sandy coves and walking the quiet coastline of these sun-kissed patches of paradise. 

luxury-retreats-in-the-san-andres-amp-providencia-islands”>luxury retreats in the San Andres & Providencia islands

On these islands many luxury hotels — ones like the Nattivo Collection Hotel (San Andres) and Posada Sweet Anashly (Providencia) — travelers are inspired by the local culture. All of their varied spaces pay tribute to the cultural richness of the island, incorporating elements that reflect San Andres’ and Providencia’s essence. Posh accommodations “merge with luxury experiences to fulfill the purpose of providing a pause in the daily rhythm, allowing reconnection with what normally goes unnoticed, thus making the invisible visible.”

These hotels offer a variety of services such as gourmet restaurants, swimming pools, solariums, event rooms, gyms and Jacuzzis to provide a unique experience in the islands.

Hotels located even in the center of these intimate islands place you just three minutes from the beach, giving guests easy and quick access to the surrounding sea. 

amazon“>7. Adventure awaits in the Colombian amazon

An often-overlooked gem, the Colombian amazon is magnificent. It’s a vibrant mix of the canopied rainforest, far-out wildlife, and age-old Indigenous communities that live in harmony with the jungle. For the roving traveler, this can add up to a thrilling jungle adventure or simply a peaceful nature retreat.

The remote town of Leticia is the gateway to Colombia’s amazon region, which makes up a third of the country. Studded right in the southern tip of the nation, Leticia waits ever ready to welcome visitors thanks to its small airport, a clutch of hotels, and its position next to the commanding amazon River itself, where motorized boat trips to the jungle begin.

As Leticia is a border town on the river, you can explore the Colombian side and also easily hop over to Brazil for even more discoveries. On either side, you’ll likely encounter indigenous groups and surely explore the wildlife, a key highlight to any time spent here.

A mesmeric nature hike will have you getting up close to a plethora of birdlife, crocodiles, monkeys, sloths, and armadillos; then too, there’s always the chance of spotting a Pink river dolphin, an icon of the amazon! Rachet your adventure experiences up a notch by paddling out on a nocturnal canoe safari, where the soundtrack of the jungle is sure to awaken your senses and stir your soul.

A tangle of impossibly green rainforest, snaking rivers, and traditional communities, Colombia’s share of the amazon jungle is a mythical land begging to be experienced. 

Amazonian rainforest retreats

For nature lovers, adventure seekers, or simply those looking for a relaxing getaway, the Colombian amazon offers comfortable accommodations that allow unforgettable jungle experiences.

For the most adventurous travelers looking to escape deep into the rainforest, you can choose among several rustic yet restful options, including the Calanoa Jungle Lodge, Omshanty Jungle Lodge, and the Eware amazon Lodge. Adopting traditional Colombian design, these structures are built from natural materials like bamboo, wood, and thatched palm leaves, while the simple yet adequate interiors are fitted with mosquito-netted beds, open-air showers, and relaxing hammocks.

However, the most comfort-filled accommodations in the region are offered at the Waira Suites. Though this comfortable 4-star hotel is located within the Amazonian outpost town of Leticia, guided excursions into lush rainforests are provided. In this way—without sacrificing modern urban amenities—you can explore the amazon rainforest on guided wildlife-watching tours to spot Pink dolphins, raucous monkeys, and brilliantly colored exotic birds while hiking and canoeing.

Whether rustic or more refined, the lodges in the Colombian amazon offer unforgettable experiences for exploring this breathtaking and biodiverse region. 

8. From beaches to jungles in Tayrona National Park

What is Tayrona National Park? Think palm-lined tropical beaches and secluded coves; picture a paradise of relaxation against the dramatic backdrop of the looming coastal mountains.

Established as a national park over a half-century ago, Tayrona has been protected ever since, drawing in visitors with its verdant jungles and golden beaches. The ancient Tayrona civilization once flourished here, as can be glimpsed through primeval sites like La Ciudad Perdida – literally, “The Lost City.” This mini-Machu Picchu is so deeply entwined in the jungle that it requires a three- or four-day hike to get there. This is but one of the several reasons Tayrona National Park is the perfect playground for history lovers, nature seekers, and wanna-be Indiana Jones adventurers.

Another string in its bow is the collection of glorious beaches that hug the coastline of Tayrona. Golden sands strewn with enormous boulders backdropped by gently swaying palm trees bestow a true paradise setting.

You won’t find any super-glam resorts here; part of the region’s allure is the rustic feel of the accommodations scene, made up of thatched cabanas perched on the shorefront or beneath the palm tree canopy; nonetheless, a dose of luxury is thrown in just for good measure. So, with a mélange of protected jungle, back-to-nature lodging, idyllic beaches, pre-Columbian sites, and endless spots for blissful relaxation, look no further than Tayrona National Park. It’s not to be missed. 

Top-tier eco-lodges in Tayrona National Park

For visitors wanting to experience such exquisite beauty on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, several upscale lodges and hotels are available to accommodate your stay in this stunning park. Lodges such as Casa Tayrona Los Naranjos (pictured), Villa Playa Tayrona, Villa Maria and Senda Watapuy are there for you to spend days chilling out on sun-kissed beaches or wandering along the jungle trails that edge the coastline. Not just rustic huts stripped down to the mere basics, these are upscale lodges possessing modern amenities, serving delicious meals, and providing attentive service while proudly showing off their remarkable indigenous Colombian architecture.

Casa Tayrona Los Naranjos is a jungle retreat just minutes from the main Zaino entrance to Tayrona Park. From your room’s private terrace, you’ll not only have panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the Rio Piedra River but also the snow-covered summits of the Sierra Nevada – the world’s highest coastal mountain range; or kick back at the pool or wander on down to an unspoiled, white-sand beach. The hotel is attended by 24-hour staff, its rooms are air-conditioned and supplied with piping hot water, and the lodge’s on-site restaurant allows guests to dine in the restaurant without having to drive.

Like the other luxury lodges at Tayrona, Casa Tayrona Los Naranjos is the ideal location for friends looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the river, sea, and gardens surrounding the hotel, couples on a romantic getaway, and people who want a comfortable place to stay as they discover Tayrona Park, one of Colombia’s natural jewels.

The takeaway…

With not only the Andes and the amazon, but golden beaches on two oceans, as well as incredible food, historical ruins, colonial cities, archaeological sites, art, cumbia, salsa and so much more, Colombia provides countless opportunities for exploring and discovering.

And if all the planning and coordination seems too much to handle, don’t worry. Trips to Colombia are especially doable through experienced tour operators who can design and manage your entire travel experience. They’ll handle the heavy lifting, so you can give all your attention to thoroughly enjoying your journey.

Colombia has something for every traveler. From Cali’s sizzling salsa to Cartagena’s character-filled streets, all the ingredients of a fun and rewarding journey are here. Your next adventure just might be to this captivating country!