Colombia is a diverse and vibrant destination, packed with bucket list experiences from the colorful streets of Cartagena (tourism hotspot) to the lush coffee regions and the towering Andes mountains. In my opinion, the top sights include the historic walled city of Cartagena, the buzzing capital Bogotá, and the stunning Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms. Whether you’re into culture, adventure, or relaxation, this Colombia travel guide ensures you won’t miss a thing.
As a tourist, your main airports in Colombia will be Bogotá (BOG), Medellín (MDE), and Cartagena (CTG). Bogotá has the most international connections, with direct flights from the U.S., Europe, and other Latin American countries. Smaller airports like Cali (CLO) and Santa Marta (SMR) are great for regional travel. You can shop for flights to Colombia on Skyscanner or Google Flights.
Colombia has improved significantly in safety over the years, but petty theft and scams can still happen, especially in crowded areas. I’d recommend avoiding flashy jewelry, keeping an eye on your belongings, and using registered taxis. Some rural areas still have security concerns, so check government advisories before traveling off the beaten path. Another thing to note is that Colombians are warm and friendly, but it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night in big cities.
Colombia’s climate varies by region, tropical along the coast, mild in the coffee zone, and cooler in Bogotá’s highlands. The dry season (Dec-Mar & Jul-Aug) is the best time to visit for sunny weather, while the rainy season (Apr-Jun & Sep-Nov) brings lush green landscapes but occasional downpours.
I visited in January, and the weather was perfectly warm in Cartagena but pleasantly cool in Medellín. If you hate humidity, avoid the Caribbean coast in peak summer.
Colombia is a budget-friendly destination, with hostels starting at 30,000 COP Approx ($7 USD) and private hotels from 100,000 COP Approx ($25 USD). Meals at local eateries cost around 15,000-30,000 COP, while upscale dining can go up to 70,000 COP.
Hostels start at Approx $7/night, and meals cost Approx $3-$7. Use Uber/Cabify for cheap transport.
Other Essential Information
Colombia is an underrated gem with incredible landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring colonial towns or hiking through jungles, this country won’t disappoint.
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small but stunning country is packed with lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches making it one of the best places in the world for eco-tourism. The most famous spots include Manuel Antonio National Park (where jungle meets ocean), the Arenal Volcano (with its hot springs), and the Monteverde Cloud Forest (home to rare wildlife).
Congo is a land of untamed wilderness and raw beauty, offering some of the most bucket-list-worthy experiences in Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and rare wildlife, while the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) boasts pristine national parks and the mighty Congo River. Top sights include Virunga National Park (the world’s most biodiverse protected area), Nyiragongo Volcano’s lava lake, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park for lowland gorilla trekking.
Comoros is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, offering untouched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a rich blend of African, Arab, and French cultures. This archipelago may be small, but it’s packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences from hiking the active Mount Karthala volcano to exploring the fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. The capital, Moroni, is a maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, while the islands of Mohéli and Anjouan provide secluded beaches and incredible marine life.
China is a massive, bucket-list destination packed with ancient history, futuristic cities, and breathtaking landscapes. The most famous sights include the Great Wall near Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, and the skyscraper filled skyline of Shanghai. But beyond the well known attractions, China offers hidden gems like the karst mountains of Yangshuo and the pandas of Chengdu.
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