Colombia

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Aerial view from the Piedra del Peñol next to the Lake or reservoir in Guatape, Antioquia, Colombia, located near the city of Medellín, License Type: media, Download Time: 2026-01-04T10:10:40.000Z, User: heike.photo_lonelyplanet, Editorial: false, purchase_order: 56500 - T&R or Kids, job: Global Publishing-WIP, client: Secret Wonders of the World/1, other: Heike Bohnstengel

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Why visit Colombia

An exhilarating cocktail of condensed South America with a shot of Caribbean thrown in, Colombia keeps the magical moments coming thick and fast. In one day it’s possible to travel from glacier-covered Andean peaks to crystalline Caribbean seas, or from immense sand dunes to lush tropical rainforest. And beyond the cinematic panoramas, Colombia travel is also a fascinating mix of old and new, with impressive pre-Hispanic ruins and enchanting colonial towns vying for your attention alongside progressive cities with chic dining and vibrant nightlife. From the timeless streets of Cartagena to trendsetting Medellín, Colombia’s greatest appeal is in its diversity. Make the most of your Columbia trip with our travel inspiration and tips covering top attractions, when to visit and expert advice.

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Top places to visit in Colombia

Discover the best attractions in Colombia from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

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Attraction in Medellín
La Comuna 13
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Attraction in Bogotá
Museo del Oro
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Attraction in Cartagena
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
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Attraction in Bogotá
Museo Botero
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Attraction in Guatapé
Piedra del Peñol
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Attraction in Santa Marta
Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino
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Attraction in Cartagena
Old Town
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Attraction in Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Cabo San Juan del Guía

Travel Guides

Colombia travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Colombia attracts record numbers of visitors with its incredible landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm welcome. These are top things to do.

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Best Time to Visit

The climate varies across the country, but each season provides a good reason to visit Colombia. Here is the best time to visit.

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Things to Know

The biggest danger when visiting Colombia is the urge to never leave its incredible coastline, high-altitude national parks and untamed jungle.

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Transportation

Colombia's landscape is stunning and impressive but those features can be hard to navigate on the ground. Here's how to get around Colombia.

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Visa Requirements

With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and jaw-dropping national parks and beaches, Colombia is a joy to visit, Here's what you need to know about visas.

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