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Beautiful Colombia, invites you to explore each of its corners

Beautiful Colombia, invites you to explore each of its corners

 

Captivating cities, incredible landscapes and plenty of charm

Colombia, the country of beauty, invites you to explore each of its corners.

 

The gateway to South America, Colombia does a wonderful job of introducing people to this incredible continent. Its diversity is staggering: golden beaches, arid desert, lush rainforest and vibrant cities sit snugly within its borders and it is surrounded by not one but two oceans. It’s fair to say that as far as first impressions go, Colombia does a fine job.

This is a country that has had its fair share of bad press but its transformation in the last 25 years has been nothing short of remarkable. Cities that once hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons are now bustling hubs of art and culture. Bogota and Medellin are thriving metropoles bursting at the seams with galleries and museums that celebrate creativity in all its forms. From the bulbous sculptures of Fernando Botero to dazzling displays of pre-Columbian gold, there is so much to discover in these exciting cities.

The charming colonial towns of Villa de Leyva and Barichara, with their cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, are the perfect tonic after a few days in the capital. You’ll be drinking it by the cupful in Colombia so make sure you spend some time learning how caffeine gets its kick in the coffee triangle. This is a beautiful corner of the country where plantations blanket the rolling hills and enormous wax palms soar towards the sky.

The north is home to the impossibly romantic city of Cartagena, Caribbean in every way, as well as Tayrona National Park and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This part of Colombia is where salsa catches on the breeze, peaceful rivers give way to the wild waters of the Caribbean and toucans and hummingbirds flit through the jungle.

Tourism is relatively new to Colombia but those who choose to visit never fail to be won over by its outstanding natural beauty and the warmth of its people.

Embark on a trip to Colombia to experience one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. From the spectacular Flower Festival of Medellin to the colorful Caribbean coast, this South American gem has something for every traveler.

A less-traveled treasure, Colombia is quickly emerging as one of South America’s most rewarding travel destinations. With idyllic Caribbean coastlines, cities bursting with characterful, colorful architecture and lush coffee-growing valleys, a trip to Colombia is a safe bet for a memorable adventure. Situated in the north of the continent, just below the isthmus of Central America, Colombiais famed for its diverse cities, such as Cartagena, Medellin and the capital, Bogota, which offer experiences as varied as twilight carriage rides, street art tours or the chance to trace the country’s sparkling heritage at the Museum of Gold.

Not to mention, Colombia does fiestas like no other and is well-known for its lively nightlife. Latin music lovers can experience the immense Barranquilla Carnival, which easily rivals Rio’s, or dig into the culture of Cali, the world capital of salsa. The great outdoors is something Colombia has in abundance. From coastal national parks such as Tayrona to tropical beaches complete with azure waters and coral reefs, not forgetting the soaring peaks of the awe-inspiring Andes, where you can get in touch with some of the most traditional sides of Colombian culture.

Colombia has thousands of parks and natural spaces where you can discover the country’s epic biodiversity. Its greatest reserve, the iconic Amazon, has always been one of the great frontiers for adventurers, who long to travel to Colombia.

 

History of Colombia

 

Colombia’s rich and complex history has contributed to its status as the fascinating travel destination that it is today. Originally inhabited by indigenous cultures such as the Quimbaya and the Tayrona, whose mysterious ruins can still be explored today on a tour of Colombia, Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1499, marking the beginning of extensive colonization in the region. Spain’s ‘New Kingdom of Granada’ was established in Colombia, with Bogota as its capital. Cartagena and Santa Marta were also important Spanish settlements, as can still be seen in their charming colonial architecture.

In the 18th-century, prominent naturalists and scientists made the trip to Colombia to take part in the ‘Royal Botanical Expedition to New Granada’, which brought to light the rich biodiversity of the region and undertook the important task of classifying the country’s abundant species. The early 19th-century was characterized by a series of struggles for independence from Spain, culminating in the historic rebellion, led by Simón Bolívar in 1819, when the Spanish were defeated at the Battle of Boyaca. A new nation, comprising modern-day Colombia, Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador and parts of Brazil and Guyana, was formed, named the Republic of Colombia.

This huge union did not last for long, collapsing in 1830 and giving birth to several new South American nations. Civil war blighted the remainder of the century, although Colombia was famously the first nation in South America to adopt a constitutional government. Communist insurgent campaigns in the 1960sattempted to overthrow the government, but since the early 2000s peace talks have finally brought an end to the 50-year long civil war. A holiday to Colombiais now a safe option and since the country has secured its new-found peace, travelers have been visiting in ever-growing numbers.

 

Nature in Colombia

 

Dive, climb, trek or simply kick-back on the beach; Colombia’s natural environment is perfect for outdoor adventures of any kind. One of the world’s most ‘megadiverse’ countries, it is actually the most biodiverse when it comes to bird species. There are plenty of unique animals and plants to search for in Colombia’s rich natural havens and approximately 10% of the total species in the world can be found within the country’s territory, as well as a large number of rare endemic species. There’s a lot to be excited about on a holiday to Colombia if you’re a nature lover.

With environments ranging from the dense Amazon rainforest to the tropical shores of the Caribbean Coast, you cannot underestimate the diversity of Colombia. The lofty heights of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Santa Martaare a good place to start when exploring the nation’s landscapes. Sat close to the Caribbean coastline, these mountains are home to a thriving bird population, with species ranging from toucans to condors and parakeets, as well as predators such as cougars and jaguars. Several indigenous communities also inhabit the area. One of Colombia’s most famous natural havens is the Tayrona National Park, adored for its untouched beaches and accessible wildlife watching.

Here, you can spot several monkey species, elusive tree-dwelling jaguars and tiny dart frogs, to name only a few of its highlights. It’s the perfect place to combine laid-back beach relaxation with exciting wildlife trekking. One of the quintessential landscapes to experience if you travel to Colombia is the palm-fringed highlands of the Cocora Valley, situated between the Andes. It’s a picture-perfect sea of verdant trees, coffee plantations, and cloud forests. The Cocora Valley is the kind of tropical haven you’ve always dreamt of, not to mention a caffeine-addicts paradise!

 

Culture in Colombia

Ethnically diverse and eternally vibrant, Colombian culture is a fusion of its many different ethnicities and their unique traditions. Indigenous groups, descendants of Spanish colonists, Afro-Colombians and European migrants have all left an influence on modern-day Colombian culture. Many traditional arts, dances, and music can be traced back to the culture of Spain, whilst elements of the national cuisine, for example, are distinctively Caribbean in flavor, something you’ll notice in coastal cities such as Cartagena. Traditional Roman Catholic teachings lay the groundwork for family life, although the pull of urban life and the city have altered this somewhat. Culture in Colombia differs depending on the region, be it coastal, interior or in the mountains, each region has its distinct traditions and values.

Colombia is an artistic nation; art is actively encouraged and celebrated. In some cities, such as Bogota, graffiti has been decriminalized, making for colorful streets and surprisingly liberal freedom of expression. The capital also leads the way by encouraging healthy living and a green environment with its ‘car-free Sundays’, when cyclists and pedestrians take over the city, a weekly event which has become somewhat of a family ritual for the inhabitants of the capital. This Spanish-speaking nation also boasts a particularly hearty and delicious cuisine, so come with a healthy appetite and bulk up on the abundant tropical fruits that are an everyday luxury of traveling to Colombia. 

 

Destinations in Colombia

In Colombia, rhythm runs through our veins. It’s a country that will thrill you with a huge range of destinations catering for all tastes.

Armenia

 

With a capital city that’s older than Rome and an alphabet that’s among the oldest in the world, Armenia offers you the opportunity to delve into ancient history and immerse yourself in its captivating culture.

Spend your time here exploring ancient villages and learning about times long gone as you discover what truly sets Armenia apart. In 301 AD, the country was the first to adopt Christianity as the state religion and its capital Yerevan is more than 2,800 years old. Taking it back even further, in the Vayots Dzor region, you’ll find Areni-1 Winery which, at some 6,100 years old, is believed to be one of the oldest wineries yet discovered in the world.

Armenia boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and also claims seven items on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Among these are the national musical instrument a duduk which is made from apricot wood and is one of the world’s oldest wind instruments. Khachkars are detailed carved-stone crosses found in towns and along hiking trails. Kochari is a traditional dance that celebrates the powerful character and identity of the Armenian people.

With stunning mountain backdrops and filled with freshwater fish, Lake Sevan is located in eastern Armenia. On a narrow peninsula you’ll find the Sevanavank Monastery with its two stone churches that date back to the 9th century. Take the plunge and dip into the icy cold waters, enjoy freshly-grilled fish on the lake shore, embark on a leisurely boat trip or visit the nearby monastery.

Despite the fact that the snow-capped dormant Mount Ararat lies within Turkey’s modern boundaries, it is the national symbol of Armenia and features on the country’s coat of arms, along with Noah’s ark, fragments of which many believe are still present on the the peak.


Bogota

 

Tourist attractions Bogota

The capital of Colombia is one of the most vibrant cities in the country, where the great cultural, leisure, gastronomic and nightlife opportunities are concerntrated, with the popular rumba being the queen of all dances. Originally inhabited by the indigenous people of Muisca and conquered in the 16th century by the Spaniards, Bogotá has preserved its rich culture and the natural jewels that characterize it over the years. In the same city, up to thirteen wetlands have been conserved, including Santamaría and Conejera, where more than 100 species of birds can be seen. Its historic center, the Candelaria, keeps some of the most emblematic houses of the colonial era. It is the most famous district of the city, also the most colorful. This is where the famed Botero Museum is located, which keeps the best of Latin American art and artists like Botero, Dalí or Picasso among its walls. Other emblematic places are the church of La Candelaria and Plaza Bolivar, where the sculpture of the military and politician was erected after the independence of the country. The latter is the nerve center of the city and it is home to some of the most popular buildings such as the National Capitol, Bogota’s first cathedral, the Colón Theater – where some of the best rumba shows are organized – and the house of the Vase, in whose interiors the museum is located.

One of the other great attractions of Bogotá is its thousands of parks, Simón Bolívar the largest and most central of them. The best views of the city can be found from the hill of Montserrate, the viewpoint that is more than three thousand meters high; or from the tower of Colpatria. Finally, you can not leave the capital without reviewing its history. The Gold Museum houses jewels from the pre-Columbian peoples.

 

Cartagena de Indias

 

Tourist attractions Cartagena de Indias

Located in northern Colombia and on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena de Indias is one of the most beautiful cities in the country due to the rich architectural heritage inherited from the colonial era. It dates from the 16th century, when the Spaniards turned the city into one of the most important ports in Latin America and the enclave had to be fortified to avoid the invasions of the pirates.

Today, both the walls and many of the buildings and monuments of the time are still standing and have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. One of them is the Clock Tower, the popular gateway to the ancient city considered one of the most beautiful towers in the world. Behind it is the Plaza de los Coches, a huge and colorful square that formerly served as a parking lot and is now used mostly by tourists.

In the center, a sculpture by Pedro Heredia pays homage to its founder. His memory also remains alive in the house where he lived and which is located in the square; and in the theater of the city, whose building also bears his name. Other places of interest are the barracks of Las Bóvedas and the castle of San Felipe, samples of its famous military architecture; and Plaza Bolívar, where some of the most important buildings and museums of the old area are located.

 

Getsemani

 

 

Tourist attractions Getsemani

Getsemaní, an enchanting neighborhood in Cartagena de Indias, beckons with its vibrant energy and rich historical tapestry. Nestled just outside the walled city, this bohemian enclave has evolved into a dynamic hub where tradition and modernity seamlessly coalesce.

Cobblestone streets wind through a kaleidoscope of colorful colonial buildings adorned with captivating street art, telling stories of the neighborhood’s resilience and creativity. Once a residential area for working-class locals, Getsemaní has transformed into a cultural hotspot, pulsating with lively street life, trendy cafes, and eclectic boutiques.

The heartbeat of Getsemaní is Plaza de la Trinidad, a lively square where locals and visitors alike converge. In the evening, the plaza transforms into a lively social arena, hosting impromptu dance performances, live music, and a myriad of street vendors offering delectable Colombian snacks.

Wander through the narrow alleys to uncover hidden gems like the iconic “La India Catalina” statue, a symbol of the city’s indigenous heritage. As the sun sets, Getsemaní comes alive with a captivating energy, making it an ideal spot to explore the burgeoning nightlife scene.

Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Getsemaní, where the echoes of history harmonize with the beats of contemporary life. This neighborhood invites you to lose yourself in its narrow streets, indulge in local flavors, and soak in the palpable sense of community that makes Getsemaní a must-visit destination in Cartagena.

 

Islas del Rosario

 

 

Tourist attractions Islas del Rosario

Located off the coast of Cartagena de Indias, this archipelago of 30 islands is one of the most wonderful natural gems of Colombia. The white sand beaches, the crystalline water of the Caribbean Sea and the coral formations are some of the attractions that characterize it and that has increased its appeal to tourists.

Turned into a natural park to preserve its beauty, visitors can see its mangroves, lagoons, wetlands, different types of vegetation, as well as the famous coral reef. The marine biodiversity that inhabits the reef has turned the Rosario Islands into one of the best places in Colombia to do water sports such as snorkeling or scuba diving. Among its fauna you can see dolphins, turtles and even different species of sharks. A visit to the Rosario Islands can take a day or more, are in the larger islands there are hotel complexes, shops and restaurants.

 

La Candelaria

 

 

Tourist attractions La Candelaria

La Candelaria is a historic neighborhood in Bogotá, where the city was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada. In it is the popular Plaza de Bolívar, where some of the emblematic buildings of the city are located, such as the National Capitol, current seat of the congress; the Cathedral of Bogotá, the largest of all; and the Liévano palace, among others.

La Candelaria is also characterized as the cultural center of the capital, since the neighborhood has several universities, which means it has a young and international environment, museums, theaters and cultural centers. Among the most important ones is Botero, where the largest art collection in Latin America is exhibited. In it you can see well-known works by Botero, Picasso, Monet or Dalí. The Military Museum is also relevant to understanding part of the history of the city and its colonization.

The Candelaria neighborhood is also an important religious center, since it includes some of the most important churches in the city. When the sun goes down, the area is one of those that enjoy the greatest atmosphere. The popular rumba dance is present in many of the bars in the city, as well as in the Teatro Colón, where some of the best shows are organized.

 

Medellín

 

 

Tourist attractions Medellín

Capital of the Antioquia region of northwestern Colombia, Medellín is known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ due to its near-perfect year-round climate. Nestled in a narrow valley, Medellín boasts a rich history of industry and commerce and is known for its exports of cut flowers and textile manufacturing. As one of the most important cities in Colombia, a trip to Medellín is an unmissable chance to experience the country’s modern urban culture. Founded in 1675, Medellín was originally a mining town, although few of its colonial-era buildings from this period remain intact today. Later, in the 20th-century, the completion of the Panama Canal and the arrival of the railroad brought rapid growth to the city. Today, many choose to visit Medellín to experience its rich cultural and artistic heritage, evident in the city’s numerous world-class museums and galleries. Furthermore, Medellín’s vibrant street art scene creates a colorful backdrop to your adventures in the city and areas once considered the ‘most dangerous neighborhoods in Colombia’, now play host to artist communes, cultural events and street food tours.

A vacation to Medellín is the chance to encounter the ‘new Colombia’, with a youthful atmosphere and ‘work hard, play hard’ mentality. This vibrant city boasts great infrastructure and an efficient metro and cable car system, making exploring Medellín a real treat. A true city of contrasts, Medellín retains a certain edginess but is better known for its cafe culture, rooftop bars and excellent nightlife nowadays. Furthermore, it’s a fantastic shopping destination, thanks to its thriving manufacturing industries, and the ideal base for exploring other notable destinations in northern Colombia, such as Puebla or colorful Guatape.

Things to do in Medellín

A trip to Medellín is the chance to delve deeper into Colombia’s rich and varied artistic heritage. The city is bursting with galleries and museums, some of the most notable of which include the Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellín, for contemporary works, and the Casa Museo Pedro Nel Gómez, dedicated to the prolific local painter of the same name. Of course, no tour of Medellín would be complete without a visit to Plaza Botero, situated in the heart of the city. This public square contains 23 incredible sculptures by famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero. His characteristic figures, sculpted in bronze, are true icons of the city, and Plaza Botero is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of Medellín and enjoy an afternoon stroll.

To learn more about the cultural and historic heritage of the city, one of the best things to do in Medellín is to pay a visit to the Museo Casa de la Memoria. This fascinating, yet poignant, exhibition traces the history of urban conflict in Medellínand wider Colombia. It’s a key place to visit if you’d like a greater understanding of politics and society in modern-day Colombia.

To get to the heart of the city, one of the best things to do in Medellín is to pay a visit to the famous neighborhood of Comuna 13. Once considered the most dangerous area in the city, Comuna 13 has undergone an incredible transformation over the last few decades. Clinging to the hillsides above the city, the neighborhood is famed for its beautiful street murals and its escaleras, street escalators that have helped connect previously marginalized parts of the city. Of course, it is the people of this community that make it such a rewarding place to visit, therefore a guided tour of Comuna 13 is recommended in order to get to know the neighborhood’s gritty past and prosperous future!

 

San Andrés

 

 

Tourist attractions San Andrés

San Andres is a stunning Caribbean island off the coast of Colombia, boasting white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The island is full of activities to keep visitors entertained, from sailing and kayaking to snorkeling, diving, and exploring the nearby Cocos Island. San Andres is also known for its vibrant culture and local cuisine, making it a great destination for foodies. With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and unique culture, San Andres is a great destination for anyone looking for a memorable and enjoyable trip.

 

San Felipe de Barajas Castle

Tourist attractions San Felipe de Barajas Castle

The majestic San Felipe de Barajas Castle, located in the coastal city of Cartagena, stands as an icon of colonial history and military engineering. Strategically located on a hill, it offers panoramic views over the Caribbean Sea while its imposing walls, designed to resist naval and land attacks, chronicle centuries of battles and daring defenses.The tunnels that wind under its solid walls invite adventurers to explore its intriguing nooks, while its privileged spot as the largest fort ever built by the Spanish in Latin America adds an aura of grandeur and mystery.This castle has been the site of numerous local legends and has inspired artists, writers, and filmmakers, thus becoming a cultural icon of Cartagena and all of Colombia.

 

Santa Marta

 

Tourist attractions Santa Marta

Santa Marta, located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. It is home to historic colonial architecture, stunning beaches, and lush green hills. The city is also known for its lively nightlife and vibrant culture. Visitors can take part in a number of outdoor activities such as sailing, fishing and horseback riding. There are also plenty of nearby attractions including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park, which is full of exotic wildlife.

 

Tayrona

 

 

 

Tourist attractions Tayrona

A protected area in Colombia’s Caribbean region, Tayrona is a haven of rich biodiversity, desert-island beaches and tropical marine life. A national natural park, Tayrona covers an area of 150 square kilometers on land and 30 square kilometers of maritime area in the abundant waters of the Caribbean Sea. One of the most popular destinations in Colombia, the natural park encompasses verdant rainforests, home to monkeys, birds and other wildlife, as well as white-sand beaches, so if you want the best of both worlds, a vacation to Tayrona is an excellent choice!

Likened to the setting of “Jurassic Park”, Tayrona is home to some of the most exotic landscapes in South America, and visiting here is the perfect escape from everyday life. Travel to Tayrona is motivated by two major attractions: incredible wildlife and beaches so perfect they belong in the realm of dreams! 108 species of mammal and 300 bird species inhabit this idyllic environment, including the mantled howler monkey, the adorable oncilla wildcat and the solitary eagle. Furthermore, jaguars are said to prowl the jungles here, although sightings are pretty rare.

On the other hand, Tayrona National Natural Park is also known as an eco-tourism destination. Accommodations are generally quite rustic, and many visitors choose to camp rather than stay at a lodge or hotel. The hotels that do exist respect the natural environment, and keep interference with nature to an absolute minimum. Furthermore, many of the beaches are undeveloped, without facilities or restaurants and vehicles are only permitted up to a designated point. After this, it’s just you and some of the most exquisite landscapes in South America! So, why not immerse yourself in pure, untouched nature with a trip to Tayrona?

Things to see in Tayrona

If you visit Tayrona National Natural Park, you’ll soon discover that the best sights are simply the untouched rainforests and paradise beaches. Due to the lack of infrastructure, you’ll most likely explore everywhere on foot, therefore you’ll have plenty of chances to discover the abundant wildlife of the cloud forests and admire the pristine coastline as you while away the afternoons in the warmCaribbean sunshine. One of the most popular things to see in Tayrona is the mirrored beaches of Cabo San Juan. This sandy peninsula is comprised of two symmetrical stretches of sand, creating an effect of a ‘mirrored’ beach. A hilltop viewpoint allows visitors to admire the views of the identical beaches, backed by dense jungle. Of course, this is one of the most popular destinations in the entire park and is home to restaurants and a large camping area.

One thing to keep in mind whilst visiting Tayrona is that the sea currents can be dangerous in some places. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to stick to designated swimming areas and check for red flags before jumping into the endlessly inviting Caribbean waters! One such beach generally regarded to be safe for swimming and snorkelling is known as La Piscina. The calm waters here are ideal for exploring the rich underwater world of Tayrona, and you can rent snorkelling gear or take a guided snorkelling tour if you prefer.

If you’d like to do some hiking during your stay in Tayrona, the Pueblito Hike is one of the best things to do in the park. Leading to the indigenous village of Pueblito, this 2.4-kilometer trail is relatively challenging and begins a Cabo San Juan beach. The trail is popular with visitors, and it is recommended to be respectful of the local communities when you finally reach the village and to not stay for an extended period of time.

Events and festivals in Colombia

The popular festivals in Colombia contain a wealth of culture and are full of rhythm, happiness, and color. The country hosts a long list of fairs and festivals and these are celebrated throughout the year and throughout all the municipalities of the country.

Some of the festivals in Colombia have a tradition that stretches back over a hundred years, which makes them popular tourist attractions. So that you can enjoy the authentic feel of the country, we recommend the following events in Colombia.

 

Feria de Manizales and Carnaval de Negros y Blancos

The Manizales Fair welcomes in the New Year and is celebrated between the 5th and the 11th of January. There are all kinds of activities, both traditional as well as mixtures of old and new, from bullfights to all the different parades.

The Black and White Carnival is one of the most popular festivals in Colombia and is one of the most important festivals in the whole country. It dates back to 1607 when the black slaves from Antioch rebelled against the authorities.  This incredible festival takes place between the 2nd and the 7th of January each year, and it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Barranquilla Carnaval

 

One of the main events in Colombia is the Barranquilla Carnival, which is the second largest carnival in the world and only surpassed by the carnivals in Brazil. Each year, it begins on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. For 2019, this will be from the 2nd to the 5th of March, when Colombians and millions of visitors come out onto the streets to experience the joy of the festivities.

The event is so important that it has been declared both a National Heritage and a Masterpiece of the Oral Heritage of Humanity.

 

Vallenato Festival

Of all the events that take place in Colombia, the International Festival of the Vallenata Legend, or more succinctly, the Vallenata Festival, is the star attraction.

This festival is celebrated between the 27th and the 30th of April in Valledupar, the capital of Vallenato. Apart from dancing, they revive all types of artistic expressions related to the Vallenato, including, peasant poetry, story-telling. Oral traditions and socio-cultural expression also form part of the celebrations.

 

Festival of Andean Music

One of the outstanding Colombian festivities is the Mono Núñez Festival of Andean Music. This festival is celebrated during the month of May in Ginebra, a municipality in the Cauca valley.

The first festival took place in 1975 in honor of the Maestro Benigno Mono Núñez. Its importance lies in it being an artistic platform for Andean music at an international level.

 

Medellín Flower Fair

In addition to many other events in Colombia, the Medellin Flower Fair takes place during the month of August. This festival was initially celebrated in May, but in 1958 it began to be celebrated in August so that it coincided with the month of the Antioch independence.

There is also the World Festival of Salsa in Cali, the National Cumbia Festival in Magdalena, and the Harvest Festivities in Pereira, to name a few more.

 

Latin American Festival of Folk Dance

The Latin American Festival of Folk Dance from the Valle del Cauca takes place each year in October. Its objective is to reconstruct the Latin American history, memory, and cultural identity. During the celebrations, there are dance workshops, craft fairs, exhibitions, gastronomic festivals, academic events, and music sessions.

Other festivals that take place during this month are the Festival of the Green Moon in San Andrés Islas, the Drum Festival in Bolívar and the International Film Festival in Bogotá.

 

The Independence Fair

In November the Independence Fair is celebrated in Bolívar, where the National Beauty Pageant of Colombia is held. During the festival, the contestants parade in whaleboats, in swimming costumes, evening dress and there is the Popular Crowning of the Beauty Queen.

Another important festival celebrated in November is the Gold Pirarucú, the Festival of Popular Amazonian Music, which is the most famous in the country.

 

Cali Fair

The Cali Fair is, without doubt, the event which draws the most visitors and tourists to this region. The fair has taken place since 1957, between the 25th and the 30th of December. Among the most sought after events are the Bullfighting, the Crowning of the Beauty Queen from the Comunas (the municipalities of Cali), the Streets of the Fair and a large concert.

The events list is unsurpassable: opening parade with the Salsa schools, a procession, a parade of the Old Cali Carnival, and a Mega-concert. In addition, you should not miss out on a visit to the Tascas de la Feria de Cali (the Cali bars)where you can taste a wide variety of local dishes.

Whenever you travel to Colombia you will always find something to celebrate, which is why they say that Colombians flow. The popular festivals of Colombia are more than music and entertainment. They have all the zest of the country within them.

 

Food In Colombia

 

 

When you travel to a new country, one of the key questions is what you should eat. Well, let’s see what to eat in Colombia. The first thing you should know is that Colombian gastronomy is very tasty and varied. In Colombia you have an enormous variety of things to eat, and so, this is one of the reasons to visit the country.

As we mentioned at the start of this article, Colombian gastronomy is very tasty and highly thought of. According to the region, you visit there are a series of dishes to try if you want to immerse yourself fully in the flavors of the region. But let’s talk about traditional Colombian dishes, what they are and why they are so appealing.

 

Meat-based dishes

La Cazuela (the stew pot)

Stew pots come in many forms, but in general, they are made with beans. This is a typical dish of the mountain areas which contains pork, banana, and avocado on a base of beans. Minced meat and potatoes are added, and it is served with rice and salad. This is a somewhat filling dish which can also be made with fish and seafood.

 

Tamales

In many places, tamales are the main meal of the day. They are made with pieces of cooked potato, carrot, and peas with marinated meat all wrapped in a maize dough.

The maize wrap is then wrapped in a banana leaf, which also serves as a dish. Another common variation is using rice as a replacement for the maize wrap.

 

Patacones

 

 

Patacones are fried green bananas which are served with meat or chicken, along with guacamole. When the bananas are still green they become crunchy when fried, and they provide a special touch to the dish.

 

Sancocho

Another traditional Colombian dish is the Sancocho, a soup based on potatoes, yucca, bananas, and beef. This soup or stew is mostly served with rice.

 

Ajiaco santafereño

The Ajiaco is a typical dish from Bogotá which contains three types of potato, corn cob and chicken. Soup is made with these ingredients and this is accompanied with rice, cream, and capers.

 

La Bandeja Paisa (the Country Platter)

If you want to try an authentic and one of the most traditional dishes of Colombian gastronomy, the Bandeja Paisa is perfect. This large dish is a blast of carbohydrates and proteins. Its ingredients include beans, rice, meat, black pudding, chorizo, pork, fried egg, fried banana, avocado and it is accompanied by a corn tortilla.

 

El Mondongo

Although its name is a little strange, this dish is typical of Colombian gastronomy and is nothing but soup. It is made with cow’s intestines, which is where its strangeness lies. You won’t find it everywhere, and it is recommended that you choose a good place to try it. As well as tripe, the sauce also has potatoes and boiled vegetables.

 

Fish dishes

Fish is another undisputable protagonist of Colombian cuisine. Catfish in the sauce is one of the most popular freshwater fish

 

Shopping in Colombia

 

If you are looking for souvenirs from Colombia you should read this.

If you still don’t know what to buy in Columbia, you should know that it is the perfect country to buy original things of high quality at a good price.  We don’t just win with the exchange rate, given that 1 euro is equal to 3.32 pesos, but also with the variety of products.

In Columbia, you can buy many things, from handicrafts to clothing.  In fact, you will find international brands of clothing in many places. But if you want to buy typical Columbian products, pay attention to the following list.

 

Emeralds

Columbian emeralds are considered unique in the world thanks to their extraordinary quality.  The purity, size, color and hardness are highly valued at an international level.  Boyacá is one of the main municipalities where Columbian emeralds are produced.  In addition to emeralds, you also have coffee, carranga (folk music) and butterflies. In Chivor, municipality of Boyacá, thousands of tourists travel there often to discover the quality of its precious stones.

On the other hand, in Bogotá, its proximity to the mining areas, as well as the development of the infrastructure for the cutting and setting of emeralds, turn it into the main seller.

If you are going to buy emeralds in Columbia, we recommend you go to accredited jewelers and request a certificate of authenticity.

 

Jewelry

In the same way as the precious stones, jewelry is another star buy in Columbia. The quality of the gold work in the country is well proven and is respected throughout the world.  Many tourists buy pre-Columbian replicas of extraordinary quality and crafting.  But it isn’t just the antique jewelry which is of value, pieces from current designers are becoming more important at an international level.

In the same way as with the emeralds, if you are going to buy jewelry with precious stones, we recommend you request a certificate of authenticity.

 

Footwear and leather items

Columbian leather items have gained a lot of prestige.  The manufacture of leather from Columbia has conquered the international market thanks to its high quality.  Proof of this is the increasing exportation of this type of products and their success at international fairs.

With this material, you can find bags, jackets, purses, wallets, belts, accessories and, of course, footwear. What better present than a handmade bag or a wallet made of authentic leather!

You won’t just look good, but you will be contributing to a small craftsman.

 

Columbian coffee

One of the best known and most valued typical Columbian products at a world level is coffee. Although the bush which produces it comes from the African continent, Columbia has been the biggest world producer since the 1920s.

The success of Columbian coffee is due to its high quality, the difference from other coffees is that it is 100% Arabic.  As well as the influence of the Arabic variety for its aroma and flavor, in Columbia coffee continues to be collected by hand.  This process notably improves the quality of the grain, and hence its name and value.

 

Handicrafts

Within the wide range of Columbian souvenirs that we can find, handicrafts are the jewel in the crown. Everyone who travels to this country will not hesitate to take home, or as a gift, one of the following objects: a miniature ‘chiva’ (traditional wooden bus), a San Jacinto hammock, and one or more of the traditional Voltiado and Aguadeño sombreros (hats). As well as these three-star items, Carthage embroideries are also highly valued, as well as objects made from pumpkins.

But it doesn’t all end there, the traditional baskets, the Sierra Nevada rucksacks or the Kuna Indians’ molas (art) are products which are also in very high demand.  The latter is highly valued for being a type of ancestral textile art which astonishes people with its bright colors and painstakingness of its manufacture.

 

Clothing

In this section, you have to bear in mind that many Columbian companies manufacture clothing for international brands.  If you want to buy quality clothing at a good price, the best thing to do is to visit one of the best-known shopping centers of Bogotá. Amongst them, the Andino shopping center is one of the most famous for being one of the largest in South America.

Another place to buy quality branded clothing is the Hacienda Santa Bárbara shopping center.  If you like shopping, this shopping center is your paradise, it’s built within a hacienda (an old colonial house). Here there are 7 floors full of shops, restaurants, cafés and everything you need to have a good day’s shopping.

But if you want to visit the paradise of shopping which is good, pretty and cheap, Medellín is your city.  Medellín is considered the world center of fashion, and not in vain since producers and manufacturers from all over the world come to meet here.

Now you know what to buy in Columbia, and as you can see, you have a wide range of possibilities to choose from.

 

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