Colombia tourism has been increasingly popular in recent years. As the country becomes safer for visitors, more news of the amazing tourists attractions and activities available in the country have spread. Below are some examples of the great reasons why people are flocking to this beautiful South American country.
Ciudad Perdida
The Spanish name for this ideal part of Colombia tourism can be translated as “Lost City” which is appropriate because it is an archaeological site which is found in Sierra Nevada. The city which was once located on this area is believed to have been founded in 800 AD. Between 2,000 and 8,000 people are believed to have lived in this area during its high point. Of course, the area became deserted after the Spanish ended up in the area. To reach the entrance of the city, visitors are required to climb 1,200 steps through a dense area of jungle so you’ll want to be in good physical condition. Seeing the city takes about six days.
Although the area was once plagued by violence from guerilla groups, it is now considered safe and is patrolled by government police forces.
Santa Cruz de Mompox
One of the great examples of tourists attractions and activities is Santa Cruz de Mompox is a wonderful example of a Spanish colonial city. The location was founded back in 1537 so that the ship named the Magdalena could have a safe port. Most of the buildings that were first built back in those early days are still intact in the city. Most are still being used for their original purposes. That’s one reason why it was named a World Heritage Site in 1995.
The San Juan de Dios Hospital found in the city was established in 1550. This is the oldest hospital in the Americas which continues to operate in the building in which it was originally built. The City Hall can still be entered and was significant because it was where the Act of Independence from Spain was signed in 1810. The building is also home to the dungeons used by the colony’s mayor.
Bogota
No visit to Colombia should be without a trip to the country’s capital, Bogota. The amazing tourists attractions and activities you should explore while in Bogota include the Maloka Museum. This state-of-the-art science museum includes interactive exhibits and 3-D depictions of the development of the city. The Bogota Botanical Garden is also another must-see for Colombia tourism. Not only is it the largest botanical garden in Colombia but it is also where you can see the largest aquatic flower from the Amazon.
Colombian National Coffee Park
Visiting a coffee park may not be a traditional example of tourists attractions and activities in other countries, but this theme park in Montenegro is one of the most popular spots in Colombia tourism. Among the attractions you can find at the park is a museum related to coffee processing, the world’s coffee garden, horse rides, a gondola lift, rides (a roller coaster, splash ride, and more), plus train rides.
Cocora Valley
Every year 150,000 visitors come to Cocora Valley to explore one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in Colombia tourism. The valley is located in the central Andes Mountains. You can visit the Snow Mountain of Quindio where fields of snow can be found throughout the year but that’s only a portion of the appeal of the area. You’ll also find a cloud forest where rain falls daily and which is home to unique flora and fauna. Tourists attractions and activities in the area include hiking, bird watching, fishing, horse riding, and rafting. You can also try a delicious rainbow trout served with fried plantain.
Other Activities for Colombia Tourism
While traveling to a number of different locations in Colombia can let you see all of the country’s wonders, there are plenty of activities you can do as well. To have a little grown-up fun, you can find casinos in Cartagena, Bogota, Palmira, and several other cities. If you’re visiting the coasts, you can enjoy a number of water activities: wind surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more. You’ll also find wonderful shopping, excellent local cuisine and beverages to try, and exciting festivals throughout the year to enjoy during your visit.