What is Colombia famous for? First of all, it’s Colombia and not Columbia. So, make sure you don’t hurt the people of Columbia by spelling their country’s name with a ‘U’. After all, it is one of the not to do things in Colombia.
Now talking about the country, well, Colombia is a transcontinental nation in South America. It is officially referred to as the Republic of Colombia. From the Caribbean coast to Andean Summits. Colombia has a lot in its fold to offer to its visitors. Not just this, it also has diverse landscapes, historical architectures, enthralling outdoor activities as well as the vibrant culture. But what is Colombia best known for?
Well, to answer, I have curated a list In this post where you’ll be learning about some ultimate experiences that you simply can’t afford to miss. So, let’s begin our guide of what is Colombia famous for.
Table of Contents
How to get to Colombia
National Parks
If you are an avid wildlife or nature lover, you certainly will not be disappointed in Colombia. For a fact, there are 60 national parks in Colombia. These protected areas included the diverse topography and the abundance of ecosystems, Amazon rainforest and Andes Mountains being popular among them. However, if you want to experience both wildlife and thrill, then there is no place like Tayrona National Park. Here in this national park, more than 400 species of birds, monkeys, and the best things are the beaches. Yes, it also includes beaches where you indulge in enthralling adventure activities.
The wildlife excursion in Colombia is not just restricted to this, you can also be a part of wildlife in a tropical area. The place to go is Amacayacu National Park which is situated on the River of Amazon. Here you can expect to explore a remarkable display of flora and fauna. If you choose to visit this national park, then dolphin sightseeing is one of the top things for what is Colombia known for. How can we forget the Amazon Rainforest? It certainly doesn’t need any introduction or explanation – just the name is enough to make tourists visit it.
What To Expect In Bogota
Bogota
Well, Bogota is not an experience but a destination. Also known as the capital of Colombia, the city is known for its cosmopolitan and diverse culture. Here in Bogota, you can expect to experience the aspects of both past and present. Be it history, architecture, nature, culture, heritage or adventure, Bogota is the destination where you get to experience them all! There are markets that give you the chance to shop for authentic and traditional Colombian products. La Perseverancia and Paloquemao are two of the most popular market places in Bogota that you should visit. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city are the Gold Museum, and La Candelaria, Monserrate. Not limited to this, the tourism in Bogota is also known for some free tours like Free Walking Tour, Graffiti Tour, and Food Tour. Talking about food, well, it is also a not-to-miss thing in Bogota City. There are also a number of amazing day trips from Bogota which surely you would love to cover on your vacation.
Diversity
Not many know that Colombia is a diverse nation that makes it even more appealing and enthralling. One of the fun facts about Colombia is that it is the second most biodiverse country in the entire world. From the pristine beaches to the tropical rainforest of Amazon, or mountains the country has a huge diversity. That’s not all! The wildlife is itself a special attraction in Colombia. The country is known to house more than 200 species of birds. Whether you are looking to spend time amidst the ocean nature or mountain nature, Colombia will welcome you with all and that too with open arms.
Coffee
While in Colombia, be ready to taste some of the world’s finest coffee. It is one of those things for what is Colombia known for. Arabica coffee is one of the key attractions of this beautiful country which is grown at high altitudes. Not just this, the coffee also requires two tropics along with wet seasons and volcanic soil. Colombia has all the criteria to be called as the home for Arabica coffee. You should know that coffee growing is one of the largest sources of income in Colombia among rural people. Since Colombia is known for producing the world’s finest coffee, tourists here also get a chance to indulge in a coffee tour.
The Rich History
If you are an avid history lover, then surely the rich Colombia history will entice you. Talking about the famous historical figures of Colombia, well, Gabriel Garcia Marquez is one such person who you should know about. He was a celebrated storyteller, novelist, screenwriter, and journalist. You must have also known about the famous narcotics godfather, Pablo Escobar Gavira. Well, he is also a popular figure in the history of Colombia. I am pretty much sure you know about him.
Romantic and Alluring Cartagena
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the port city of Cartagena is a pulchritudinous site for what is Colombia famous for. Visit this beautiful tourist attraction in Colombia where you will find the famous Old Town. The history of this town dates back to the 16th century. If you are wondering what is there well, you should choose to spend quality time here. Take a stroll on the stunning cobblestone streets and relish the sights of beautiful and colorful colonial buildings. As you’ll spend some time here, you will automatically get to know why this place attracts such huge tourist attention. From history and heritage to nature, this is one of those diverse places to visit in Colombia.
What to do in Cartagena
The best thing to do in Cartagena is the Segway tour where you can savor the taste of authentic Colombian cuisine. Not just this, the tour also takes you to pleasant plazas and flowering balconies. On the tour, you can visit the historic museums. That’s not all! There are also pristine beaches where you can just relax and spend some pleasant time. Cartagena is one of those destinations that you can’t afford to miss out while on your trip to Colombia.
Emeralds
I am sure you were expecting Emeralds on this list of what is Colombia known for, right? There are mines of Chivor, Muzo, and Coscuez that are situated in the Andes Mountains. The mines are known as the producers of the World’s finest Emeralds. Just to let you know, around the world’s 70 % to 90 % of Emerald’s are produced in Colombia. These gems are indeed appealing, alluring, and priced very high. I would suggest you keep a separate budget if you wish to buy Emeralds in Colombia. If you don’t have any desire to buy it, then surely you would love to go for an informative tour. On the tour, you can also get an insight into the business of Emeralds in Colombia.
Colombian Art and Artists
The artistic aspect of Colombia is not a secret from the outside world. The art, heritage, and culture of the country trace their history from the 16th century. Over the centuries, the art and culture of this beautiful country have witnessed a transition from traditional to contemporary and freestyle art. Not just on streets, but you can also expect to explore the art and culture of the country in various museums housing excellent collections of exhibits.
Best way to see street art
If you are an art person, then the graffiti tour of Bogota is one of the best things to do that you should look to include on your Bogota travel guide. The tour basically takes you to the stunning street art which starts from La Plaza de Los Periodistas. Talking about the culture, well, the Colombian dance is no exception to it. The famous dance forms like Bambuco, Mapale, and Porro are some internationally-renowned Colombian traditional dances. Some very famous and talented artists are from Colombia like Maluma and Shakira but there are many more as well.
Colombian Sports
Football is the most famous sport and is what Colombia is famous for. Football in Colombia is not just a sport but a love of every individual in the country. It is a part of the culture among the Colombia population. That can be clearly seen when there is a football match in Colombia. On that day, you can see every individual cheering and watching the match of their country. It’s quite a sight itself on a game day. Nairo Quintana, Juan Pablo Montoya, and Mariana Pajon are just a few names on the long list of popular Colombian athletes. If luck favors you and there is a match on any of the days during your visit to Colombia, I would personally recommend you to go and watch it. It will be an ultimate feeling in itself.
Colombia is also a popular destination for adventure sports. Paragliding, rafting, surfing, kayaking, biking, and trekking are some popular adventure sports that tourists love to indulge in while vacationing in Colombia.
Salsa in Colombia
The way the people in Colombia love it and perform, it needs a separate discussion. Do you know about the Salsa capital of the World? Guess what, it is in Colombia. The city of Cali is the Salsa capital of the world. The city houses more than 200 academies and over 40 clubs that are solely dedicated to this beautiful dance form.
Salsa Festival
The city of Cali is also known to host the Salsa Festival. This festival is the biggest of its kind in the world. The city has a special take on Salsa which is Calena. It is nothing but a special fusion of unique choreography, quick steps, and beautiful costumes. Salsa Festival is one of those festivals in Colombia which attracts not just dancers and musicians, but professionals and trainers as well from around the globe. If you are visiting Colombia in the months of August/September, then do consider being a part of this festival.
Unique and Exotic Fruits and Vegetables
You will find very few countries that are famous for their unique and exotic fruits and vegetables. Colombia is one of the countries that is known as the home to some lesser-known yet exotic fruits and vegetables that are exclusively here. Custard apples (Cherimoya) and passion fruit (Maracuya) are some lesser-known exotic fruits that can be found anywhere in the country.
Food in Colombia
Talking about the gastronomic experience in Colombia, well, in that case, you cannot ignore the fact that the country is also known for its world-famous cuisine. The food is one of the good things about Colombia. The Colombian food is delicious as well as diverse. Some of the must-have delicacies in Colombia are fried egg, grilled steak, fried pork, a bed of beans & rice, and a dash of avocado. The national dish of Colombia is Bandeja Paisa which includes cargamanto beans as the main ingredient.
So, this is our list of what is Colombia famous for. I really hope it will help you make the best time in Colombia from your trip. And once you continue your trip around South America or you have already covered Colombia, feel free to spread words about Colombia in the comment section so that other travelers can also profit from your experience and knowledge. That’s how the travel world works, isn’t it?
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