COLOMBIA 101

Nahbu’s insider guide by Olivier Dufeu

What to expect from Colombia?

  1. Colombia was South America's best-kept secret, a destination that has long been overlooked but is now emerging as a must-visit locale following its peace process. With a renewed focus on tourism, Colombia has become a safe and welcoming environment for travelers.

  2. Recognized as the second most biodiverse country in the world, following Brazil, Colombia boasts an array of eco-systems that range from the majestic Andes mountains to the stunning Caribbean coast and the jungle of the Amazon.

  3. This remarkable diversity makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, honeymooners, and nature lovers alike. Families will also find Colombia to be an accommodating destination with a wealth of activities suitable for all ages.

  4. Currently, Colombia occupies a unique position on the global travel spectrum, balancing well-developed infrastructure with an uncluttered tourist experience. This makes it an attractive option for international visitors seeking both comfort and authenticity.

  5. Prices remain reasonable, offering a blend of affordability that is neither as inexpensive as Southeast Asia nor as costly as Botswana.

Colombia on a map

Colombia is situated in the northern part of South America and is uniquely positioned as the only South American country with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

For a comprehensive understanding, we can categorize the country into three primary regions:

  1. The Amazon: The southern half of Colombia is predominantly enveloped by the vast Amazon rainforest, a biodiverse ecosystem that plays a critical role in the global environment.

  2. The Andes: The Andean region is home to the majority of Colombia's population, housing major cities such as Bogotá and Medellín. This mountainous area is characterized by its stunning landscapes and cultural richness.

  3. The Caribbean Coast: The northern section of Colombia features the Caribbean coastline, known for its warm climate and beautiful beaches, providing abundant opportunities for recreation and tourism.

Main destinations to explore

The most exciting cities

Cartagena de Indias

Cartagena needs no introduction; this colonial jewel of the Caribbean rightfully holds its world-famous reputation as one of the most exciting cities to explore. With its warm climate, rich cultural heritage, a diverse array of boutique and luxury hotels, and an exceptional dining scene, Cartagena offers something for every type of traveler. The proximity with beaches makes it even more attractive. A visit here is truly a must.

Recommended duration of stay: 2 to 5 nights.

Bogotá

The capital of Colombia, Bogotá, is situated at an altitude of 2,600 meters (8,500 feet). The weather tends to be cool, and while the city may initially appear chaotic, it becomes truly fascinating when explored with the right guide who can unveil its hidden secrets. Travelers who prefer nature over urban environments may choose to bypass Bogotá; however, those who are enthusiastic about urban experiences will appreciate its rich offerings, including outstanding museums, vibrant art galleries, and exquisite fine dining restaurants.

Recommended duration of stay: 1 to 3 nights.

Medellín

The second largest city in Colombia, Medellín, offers a remarkable experience for travelers. Historically associated with drug cartels, Medellín has undergone a stunning transformation over the past two decades, emerging as a model of social development for South America. Today, the city is known for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring trendy cafés and restaurants, charming neighborhoods perfect for exploration, and abundant nature excursions in the nearby mountains.

Recommended duration of stay: 2 to 4 nights.

For nature lovers, with stylish accommodation

The Coffee Region

Coffee is merely one of the many compelling reasons to visit Colombia’s coffee region. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Nestled in the Andes, the area boasts lush, fertile land that is home to an incredible variety of bird species, welcoming local communities, and colorful colonial towns. Visitors can engage in a range of activities, primarily focused on sightseeing and soft adventure, offering an authentic experience of Colombia's true heart and soul.

Recommended duration of stay: 3 to 5 nights.

Barichara & the Chicamocha canyon

Barichara is celebrated as the most beautiful village in Colombia. However, its allure extends beyond leisurely strolls through its picturesque streets. The surrounding region, particularly the nearby Chicamocha Canyon—recognized as the second largest canyon in the world—positions Barichara as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Opportunities for hiking, white-water rafting, horseback riding, and paragliding abound, making it an ideal locale for those eager to explore the thrilling aspects of Colombia's natural landscape.

Recommended duration of stay: 3 to 5 nights.

Tayrona National Park

Following the Caribbean coastline, just four hours north of Cartagena lies the stunning Tayrona National Park. However, the beauty of the landscape extends well beyond the park itself. The entire region is a tropical paradise, where lush rainforests cascade into the turquoise sea, framed magnificently by the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background. This vibrant ecosystem offers a harmonious blend of rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Recommended duration of stay: 3 to 4 nights.

Beach, Sun and Caribbean water

Barú, the Rosario islands & Tierra Bomba island

Thanks to their close proximity to Cartagena—just a 45-minute boat ride—the Barú Peninsula and the Rosario Islands offer some of the most accessible and delightful beach retreats to conclude your Colombian adventure. Visitors can anticipate clear, warm waters and pristine white sand, creating an idyllic setting for a perfect beach holiday. In contrast, Tierra Bomba Island, situated only 15 minutes from Cartagena by boat, is rapidly gaining popularity as a sought-after destination for discerning travelers. This island features trendy beach clubs and exquisite private villas.

Recommended duration of stay: 2 to 4 nights.

Private yacht cruising

Ultra luxury yachting is an option from Cartagena with some options like the 115 ft Azimut “Luz de Mar”. Add Nahbu’s services and you get the ultimate experience. The cruise can start in Cartagena and end in the San Blas islands of Panamá.

Recommended duration of stay: 4 to 7 nights.

San Bernardo archipelago

This underrated archipelago is the less visited version of the Rosario islands, located 2h by boat away from Cartagena. Hotel options are more limited and access is more complicated, but this is what makes it so special.

Recommended duration of stay: 3 to 4 nights.

Adventure & off the beaten path

La Macarena N.P. & Caño Cristales

A river that resembles a rainbow? Yes, Colombia boasts this extraordinary marvel! Nestled within La Macarena National Park, Caño Cristales is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled adventure as you hike through pristine wilderness.

Recommended duration of stay: 2 to 3 nights.

The pacific coast and whale watching

The Pacific coast of Colombia stands as one of the last untouched regions in the world, with its remoteness serving as a crucial factor in preserving its pristine beauty. This lush natural landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the majestic migration of whales, which occurs from July to October. Visitors should be prepared for a unique experience—there are no hot water showers, no cell phone signal, and the climate is extraordinarily humid. However, these challenges are outweighed by the profound rewards of exploring this remarkable destination.

Recommended duration of stay: 2 to 3 nights.

Los llanos orientales

The expansive terrain between the Andes and the Amazon is known as “Los Llanos Orientales.” These vast plains embody the spirit of the “llanero,” the Colombian cowboy, who navigates this striking landscape. This region stands out as an ideal destination for wildlife safaris, offering glimpses of diverse species such as capybaras, caimans, monkeys, and anteaters.

Recommended duration of stay: 2 to 3 nights.

The Amazon

The majestic Amazon River embodies an aura of mystery and magic. Serving as a natural border between Colombia, Brazil, and Peru, a stay in the Amazon offers an unparalleled experience, immersing travelers in its rich biodiversity.

Recommended duration of stay: 3 nights.

Weather & best time of the year to visit Colombia

Colombia is a tropical country, with the majority of its territory lying in the northern hemisphere and the equator line crossing through its southern tip.

This makes Colombia’s climate temperate and entirely determined by altitude, which can vary quite a bit. Temperatures remain fairly consisten throughout the year.

Best time to visit: December thru April

Excellent time to visit: July thru August

Shoulder seasons: May-June & September-November

Average temperatures (stable all year round)

Bogotá: around 15ºC / 60ºF

Medellín: around 20ºC / 68ºF

The Coffee Region: around 22ºC / 70 ºF

Barichara: around 25ºC / 77ºF

Cartagena / Tayrona: around 33ºC / 90ºF

Colombia F.A.Q.

  • Nowadays, traveler destinations, such as Bogotá, Medellin, Cartagena, the coffee region etc… are peaceful and open for exploration. Reasonable cautious is recommended in big cities to avoid small inconvenients.

    Colombia welcomed 6,7 millions visitors in 2024 (becoming the most visited country in South America).

    Incidents still happen but in specific parts of the country which are not touristy destinations.

  • Colombia has a relaxed visa policy, and just a few nationals that visit the country requieres one. Citizens of many Europeans and American countries can enter without a visa for 90 days.

  • The US dollar is particularly strong against the Colombian peso (COP) for visitors coming from the United states or Europe, but it is still a little higher than Southeast Asia for example.

  • Colombia has proven to be a great destination for families to visit. With its overall safety and kind locals, you can feel confortable exploring this beautiful country with your children.

    Most Colombians consider family as one of the most essential aspects of their lives. This includes not only loving and caring for one’s own family, but also being hospitable and warm-hearted toward other families.

  • Yes. Same sex marriage is legal in Colombia and members of the LGTBQ+ community are more than welcome.