Often overlooked by travellers and backpackers alike due to its sometimes turbulent past, Colombia is really burgeoning in popularity as people once again realise how very much it has to offer.
South America and Eastern Europe have long been popular destinations when it comes to backpacking on a shoestring, and Colombia does not disappoint in this regard; you’ll certainly find that your money goes that little bit further due to the low cost of living here and you’ll soon fall in love with it’s varied scenery which ranges from The Amazon Rainforest through to bustling cityscapes and beautiful tropical beaches (some of the best you’ll find in South America).
If you decide to add Colombia to your itinerary (and you definitely should), then check out these recommended destinations and activities to keep you busy whilst you’re there:
Amazon Rainforest
It would be a shame to visit Colombia and not take a trip to the rapidly disappearing Amazon Rainforest which covers over 1 billion acres (don’t forget to take a map) across Colombia, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Venezuela.
Home to around half of all animal, insect and plant species on the planet and the lungs of the earth producing 20% of the total oxygen in circulation; it truly is an awe-inspiring place.
You’ll find it pretty easy to arrange a tour into the rainforest if you travel to Leticia, the capital of Colombia’s Amazonian region. You can even spend the night in a jungle lodge if you want to have the ultimate experience, but make sure you visit between July and August when there’s less change of heavy rain (it’s not called a rainforest for nothing).
Mompox (Mompós)
Mompox is like the town that time forgot; with its preserved colonial architecture and grand residences juxtaposed with the visible neglect which seems to have slowly crept up on the town as it became more cut off from the outside world, it certainly makes for an interesting experience and you’ll find that the locals are very friendly and welcoming.
If you want to see some of the finest examples of Colombia’s rich colonial heritage then this is the place to come. Mompox was once a busy and prosperous town situated on an island in the Magdalena River, that is, until the river shifted and the port became unusable. You’ll need to be determined to get there as it’s no easy feat, but you’ll most certainly be rewarded for the effort.
Cartagena
Another of Colombia’s popular tourist destinations, the Caribbean beach resort city of Cartagena is a brilliant mix of sprawling metropolis and old world charm with its modern high-rises and the original walled city with its wealth of history. You’ll find the historic centre of Cartagena particularly pretty at night time when it’s all lit up and it’s certainly easy to see why it has been labelled a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ciudad Perdida
You’ve probably heard of the Peru’s lost city, Machu Piccu, but have you heard of Colombia’s lost city, Ciudad Perdida? If you fancy a real adventure whilst you are touring the country then I’d highly recommend taking the 6 day return trek to reach the city.
You’ll have to traverse 20km of rainforest scenery, cross rivers and meet indigenous tribes on your way (don’t worry they’re friendly), but what awaits you is most certainly worth the effort.
City of Medellin
Considered by many to be the most beautiful city in all of South America thanks to the abundance of greenery and year round warm climate (it’s also often referred to as the city of eternal spring).
Many will remember it being mentioned on international news reports when the exploits of drug baron Pablo Escobar captured the world’s attention. It’s turbulent past has long since been forgotten though and you’ll find it’s much safer than it used to be, although it’s still worth going out in pairs at night time as with any big city.
At around 5,000ft above sea level and with a subtropical climate – due to its proximity to the equator – you’ll find that temperatures never drop below around 15°C so you can travel there at any time of the year and be pleasantly surprised.
Written for besttravelwebsites.com by MoneySupermarket.com. Images by STUDY TOURS Colombia
