For decades Colombia was considered to be a dangerous place to visit, however, in recent years things have dramatically changed for the better and now this country is one of the world’s most popular touristic destinations.
And no, it is not only because it is no longer dangerous, but because there are things that you can see or do only there and nowhere else in the world.
Here are the best of them:
Get to know the process of producing coffee
Colombian coffee is widely known around the world. In fact, it might be one of the few places in the world where you can learn how coffee is produced and, no matter whether you are a coffee lover or not, that’s an experience that you shouldn’t miss for anything in the world.
What is the best is that the “coffee” tours are very affordable and yet extremely worth to be seen. Our best recommendation goes to Salento located in Quindio, a very popular area where tourists can see how coffee is produced from bean to cup.
Learn to play Tejo
Colombians are crazy about soccer, but in reality, their traditional sport isn’t soccer, but Tejo. This sport originates from the times before the European influence in Latin America and the rules go like this: you toss a lead disc in an attempt to hit a mound of clay which has little packages of gunpowder, if they explode – you score! Simple, but very fun!
Meet the real dinosaurs
No, it’s not like Colombian dinosaurs have survived to this day, but their fossils indeed did. The most popular one is located in Villa de Leyva, where you can see a 10-meter-long marine predator, discovered in 1977 by a local farmer.
Learn to dance salsa like a real Colombian
Many people associate Colombia with salsa and, of course, there is a reason for that: the city of Cali is the world capital of salsa! What is the best is that Colombians are very cheerful people and they all love dancing salsa so all you have to do is just ask one to teach you how to dance salsa like a real Colombian!
Admire the street art of Bogota
If you love street art then Bogota, the capital of Colombia, might be a real paradise on Earth for you! All you have to do is to take a walk around the city and admire the colorful street art on the buildings, especially the ones in the old town of Bogota.
Eat authentic Colombian food
Colombian cuisine is very popular around the world, but the only place where you can try real, authentic Colombian food, obviously, is Colombia. Make sure to try Ajiaco Soup, Bandeja Paisa, Empanada, Arepa, Churros, and many, many other finger-licking delicious dishes!
Go on a walking tour with the locals
The best way to explore the culture of one country is to hang out with the locals and go visit the landmarks with them. In Colombia, you also have that opportunity as well, and the best part is that it is completely free!
On those tours, you would have the chance to make new friends, learn the history and the culture, try new foods, learn to dance salsa, play sports and many other fun things!
Discover the Lost City
If you are an adventurer who is always up for new adventures then this is a must-do when you visit Colombia. The Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) is an ancient city located in the jungle of Sierra Mountains. Tourists from all around the world, join the 4 days journey where they along with their guide, go on an expedition to discover the hidden ruins of the Lost City which were built in 850 AD.
Hike the Valle de Cocora
Valle de Cocora is a valley surrounding the town of Salento and it is best known for the national tree of Colombia, Wax Palm, which grows there. Thanks to the beautiful landscape consisted of 60m high trees, many people decide to join a great 5 hours adventure and hike the stunning Valle de Cocora.
Cover yourself in a volcano mud
Yup! You read it well! Located just 45 minutes away from Cartagena, there is El Totumo, a volcano filled with mud. And there is where you can have once in a lifetime opportunity to cover yourself in the mud and float inside the crater! Unbelievable, right?!
Final Thoughts
Many people associate Colombia with the narco gangs and consider it a dangerous country for tourists. However, in recent years, safety in Colombia has definitely improved. Therefore, you definitely should give it a shot and do all the above-mentioned things in Colombia.
Further reading:
10 Mind-Blowing Facts about Barcelona You Didn’t Know
8 Weird Things You Can Only Do in Amsterdam Besides Smoking Weed
FOLLOW US ON:
