Despite the negative stereotypes, Colombia is gaining popularity among travelers, both digital nomads and tourists looking for culture-rich vacations.
Colombia’s cultural heritage is the main draw and is reflected in the local architecture, museums, galleries, festivals and food. The world-famous coffee plantations and varied landscapes are other things that lure so many travelers.
There is simply a lot to see and do. So when it comes to planning your itinerary, you may need a few tips. If you want to avoid the obvious tourist spots, like us, here is a list of them 8 incredible hidden gems to visit in Colombia in 2024.
Punta Gallinas, La Guajira
Located at the northernmost tip of the South American continent, Punta Gallinas is a unique landscape that will please any adventure lover. It’s quite a challenging destination to reach, but definitely worth a day trip or an overnight stay.
You will have the opportunity to interact with the local Wayuu tribe and learn more about their culture. And you can even stay with them in a ranchería – the traditional Wayuu settlement.
The vast desert, combined with the sea as a backdrop, is a great place to watch the sunset. Thanks to its remote location, stargazing here is also on a different level.
The volcano Lodo El Totumo
Are you on holiday in Cartagena and are you thinking about making it a little more exciting? Then take a day trip to the Lodo El Totumo volcano. However, don’t expect an ordinary volcano with lava and ash, but rather a small crater with lukewarm mud in which you can bathe. It’s fun and the minerals in the mud have therapeutic properties.
After your wellness session, wash in a nearby lagoon and return to reality rejuvenated and with lifelong memories.
Canyon del Guejar, Mesetas
Located at the gates of Serrania de la MacarenaThe Canyon del Güejar was kept inaccessible for a long time due to guerrilla fighters. And even though it’s safe to visit today, it’s still one of the best-kept secrets in Colombia.
It is surrounded by pristine forests, waterfalls and 50-meter-high rock formations. A great way to explore these three wonders is by rafting on the Güejar River. The journey takes about 5 hours and is not dangerous. However, to get the most out of it, we recommend that you take a guided tour.
Tayrona National Park, Palomino
Colombia is also home to some fantastic beaches, and the best of them can be found here Tayrona National Parksuch as Cabo San Juan, Arrecifes and La Piscina. They have crystal clear water, powder white sand and fascinating boulders. Plus, they’re usually not crowded, so you’ll feel like this piece of paradise is yours.
Tayrona National Park also features diverse ecosystems. Tropical rainforests full of exotic fauna and flora, mangroves or vibrant coral reefs? You choose. If you are tired of relaxing on the beach, you can explore it through various hiking trails.
If you want to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options, including campsites, eco-friendly lodges and even hammock hotels.
Las Lajas Shrine
It is believed that the Virgin Mary appeared at the site in the mid-18th century. To commemorate the miracle, Las Lajas was built and today is often visited by believers and pilgrims. Despite its historical significance, it has still managed to stay off the tourist trail. And is therefore a great forgotten cultural monument to add to your travel plans.
This Gothic church towers over a rocky gorge and is surrounded by lush greenery, offering impressive views and a great setting to take a few photos. But don’t stay outside alone. The interior of the shrine also contains some interesting religious paintings, statues and altars.
Lost city, Santa Marta
Located deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Lost city are remains of a pre-Columbian city built by the indigenous Tayrona people. It was abandoned for a long time and was accidentally discovered in the 1970s. Today, this archaeological site offers a glimpse into the Tayrona civilization.
However, getting there is not that easy. You need at least 4 days to cross the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which is actually a jungle. However, it is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and meet local cultures.
Tatacoa Desert
Tatacoa Desert is another of Columbia’s hidden gems, known for its unique sand formations covered in red and gray hues, beautiful trails, and extraordinary stargazing opportunities.
It is divided into two main zones: the red zone (Cuzco) and the gray zone (Los Hoyos). Each of them offers a different landscape, different hiking trails and viewpoints.
It is possible to visit them both on the same day. Just don’t forget to bring some water and snacks, because there is no possibility to buy anything there.
Caño Cristales
If you’re already in Mesetas, you might as well visit Caño Cristales. It is located at the southern end of Serranía de la Macarena and to get there you will have to hike for a few hours, making this location sacred only to the most dedicated adventurers. In return, you will be rewarded with a landscape like no other.
Caño Cristales is often called the “River of Five Colors” because of the bright red algae that bloom there. Its beauty attracts visitors from all over the world, and you can become one of them.
Again, we recommend that you take a guided tour. Not only will it make your visit much smoother, but you will also gain valuable information about the area and local history.
