Colombia

There is no denying that the country of Colombia is one of South America’s crown jewels. And that’s saying a lot, for the continent bears some of the most beautiful places in the world. This goes a long way to explaining why so many gorgeous moves set in Colombia have been created… A place extremely …

Colombia is a case of “don’t believe everything in the news.” While it had its fair share of internal strife and the legacy of one Pablo Escobar, Colombia had made the more notorious parts safer for visitors to see past its former dodgy reputation. Who knew a Disney movie could do that? But of course, …

The Portal de la Marquesa Boutique Hotel is one of those perfect boutique hotels you day-dream about while stuck in  an office cubicle. A beautifully decorated 400 year old colonial villa, respectfully renovated with modern comforts located on the banks of a quiet river: this is the elegant manifestation of old world charm and the perfect …

Are you a Canadian citizen looking to travel to Colombia? If so, you’ll need to know the visa requirements for entering the country. Fortunately, Canadians don’t need a visa when traveling to Colombia as long as they don’t plan on staying longer than 90 days. The most important thing you need is a valid passport …

Have you heard of the alluring San Blas Islands of Panama, locally known as Guna Yala? Have you seen the post-card perfect shots of deserted white sand specks in the turquoise oceans or of smiling children beckoning you to explore their little piece of paradise? If you have chances are if you’ve heard of the …

They say that Colombia has all of Latin America in one country. While we wouldn’t presume to say this, it does reflect the complexity and diversity of the continent within its borders, mixing past and present, beach and mountain, adventure and tranquillity. It’s an astonishing mixture of landscapes thanks to its ideal position right on …

Ok – I know a review of a hostel should at least start off being as unbiased as possible, but screw it, I’m just going to jump straight to the conclusion: El Rio Hostel Colombia is probably one of the best hostels in the world. Yup, there it is, I said it – and no, before …

Adrenaline filled mountain biking and a calm and tranquil walk amongst a secluded palm forest… Not exactly a likely mix right? But somehow it works, perfectly, in the itinerary offered by Salento Cycling  – a wild and crazy yet beautiful and peaceful day trip into one of Colombia’s greatest secret spots: the Carbonera Forest, the …

Medellin, Columbia is a city with a rich, storied history – it was founded as part of a Spanish colony, and then later became a central part of the global cocaine trade as home to Pablo Escobar’s cartel in the 1980s. Since then, the city has undergone a major revitalization, and although there is still …

So you’re in the famous Colombia coffee triangle and want to experience an authentic coffee tour? Obviously, you want to experience the rich Colombian coffee taste and learn all about the history of coffee in Colombia, but how do you ensure you get the right guide, the right information and at least a smidgen of …

You heard it here first: Santa Cruz de Mompox in Colombia is going to be the next ‘big thing’, Cartagena before the tourism explosion. A colonial heritage village isolated for centuries on the banks of the Magdalena River, Mompox is decidedly stuck in the past and still today remains one of the most beautiful jewels …

To explore the exotic Bazurto Market in Cartagena is to askew the touristy and picture perfect historic old town, and discover the diversity and chaos which keeps the city running. Bazurto Market is the real Colombia – gritty, friendly, unconventional and oh-so-photogenic! I decided to take a deeper look into the bowels of this market …

When you’re exploring a new city or even a new country food is one of the most of the most exciting parts. It’s something we may take for granted at home but once out of our everyday surroundings it’s something that can become somewhat of an adventure (be it good or bad) as you discover …

Have you heard of Buga, a sleepy town in Colombia’s Cauca Valley most famously known for religious pilgrimages? No? I’m pretty sure you hadn’t, as neither had I … it’s not even mentioned in the Lonely Planet! But it’s conveniently located on the main bus route between Armenia / Medellin and Cali and after accidentally googling …

Popayan is perhaps one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Colombia. Nicknamed La Ciudad Blanca, or ‘the White City’ Popayan is one of South America’s most impressive colonial cities, with white-washed facades covering the entire old town, trendy cafes and imposing churches around every corner. This under-the-radar city even has two UNESCO designations, one …

All too often tours and day trips can feel sterile, overcrowded, or it can be hard to get a real feel for a place. But on a recent Coconuco Downhill Cycling Trip on Columbia bikes offered by Popayan Tours we found the ideal combination of organization and relaxed down-to-earth attitudes that allowed us to be safe in …

Cartagena, the famed walled-city that for hundreds of years acted as the gateway to the colonies of South America, is easily the most popular tourist attraction in Colombia. With its wonderfully preserved colonial churches, lush plazas, opulent palaces and numerous mansions, it’s no surprise the travellers are coming here in droves. However that’s not the …

The National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro in Cauca, Colombia is one of the most important archaeological finds in South America, which is surprising – because ask almost anyone who has visited Colombia and I can guarantee they haven’t even heard the name before. Located well away from civilization, in a remote valley in Southern Colombia’s …

Popayan, Colombia, enchants with its charming blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Selecting the right accommodations is crucial to fully experiencing this Colombian jewel, and the best hotels in Popayan don’t just offer a place to rest—they provide immersive experiences that enhance every moment of your stay. The Hotel Dann Monasterio stands as a …

Barranquilla, Colombia’s bustling coastal hub, entices visitors with its electrifying energy. Often hailed as the “Golden Gate,” this city’s allure extends far beyond its famed carnivals and deep-rooted traditions. And while the city beckons with its rhythm and color, your experience heightens when you choose one of the best hotels in Barranquilla. The city dances—a …

In Colombia’s vibrant tapestry, where urban pulse meets natural splendor, the importance of the best hotels in Colombia becomes undeniably clear. A haven in Colombia not only provides rest but also shapes your entire journey, embodying the soul and rhythm of this South American marvel. Picture the exhilaration of wandering through Bogotá’s colorful streets. Here, …

Colombia, a country known for its vibrant culture and rich musical heritage, offers an array of captivating music festivals throughout the year. These events are not only a perfect showcase of Colombia’s diverse artistic talents but also a great opportunity for both locals and visitors alike to dance, celebrate and connect through the universal language …

A journey to South Colombia just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the mysterious San Agustin – home of possibly the world’s cutest UNESCO Site! Located deep in the spectacular Andes Mountain ranges, at the headwaters of two of Colombia’s largest and wildest rivers is the San Agustín Archaeological Park, the largest group of …

I love the street art of South America!  So vibrant, so colourful and inspirational! And Colombia is leading the pack, with its capital Bogota quickly becoming a mecca of street art. A walk through its old colonial centre reveals a thriving graffiti scene filled with stories begging to be told.   Artists from all over the …