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<\/div>\nEveryone nonetheless thinks Colombia is harmful. They consider Pablo Escobar, they\u2019ve heard about drug cartels, they\u2019ve seen Narcos<\/em> on Netflix and suppose they know what Colombia is like immediately.<\/p>\n I get it. The cliche photographs from the previous can take a very long time to clean away. But belief me on this: touring in Colombia is so<\/em> a lot enjoyable and it\u2019s a lot safer immediately. In reality, having achieved virtually all the Latin American \u201cGringo Trail\u201d<\/a>, I contemplate Colombia considered one of my prime favourite backpacking international locations.<\/p>\n Colombia simply has all of it: there are each the Caribbean<\/strong> and Pacific<\/strong> coasts (that are very<\/em> totally different), the beginning of the Andes <\/strong>mountain vary, and 40% of the nation is roofed by the Amazon Rainforest<\/strong>. Colombia\u2019s cities have numerous climates and characters that make them extremely price exploring.<\/p>\n Variety is de facto Colombia\u2019s robust level. Within its borders you\u2019ll discover something from lush jungles to dusty deserts. Coastal areas usually have an Afro-Caribbean vibe, whereas larger elevation areas might remind you of indigenous mountainous areas in Peru or Bolivia. Thanks to its geography and variety you may virtually consider Colombia as a South America taster menu.<\/strong><\/p>\n One factor Colombia arguably doesn’t have: some sort of singular iconic bucket checklist sight, like Machu Picchu in Peru or Iguazu Falls in Brazil. Some vacationers might discover this disappointing however I believe it\u2019s a bonus: not having all the eye on one overtouristed hotspot makes the Colombia backpacking path extra unfold out and extra relaxed.<\/p>\n Did you realize Colombia has the world\u2019s second highest biodiversity? (Second solely to Brazil, a rustic 7 instances bigger!) <\/em><\/p>\n The wildlife and nature expertise are actually on one other degree. Consider treks just like the Lost City Trek, whale watching on the Pacific Coast, or birdwatching in Minca. Lots of people affiliate Costa Rica with nature actions however Colombia is secretly wonderful for ecotourism<\/a> as effectively.<\/p>\n It\u2019s common to see a bunch of monkeys within the jungle or a toucan flying previous. One time I used to be taking an extended nap on the bus and simply as I awakened, a hummingbird hovered beside my window and checked out me as if to say, \u201chey buddy, remember you\u2019re still in beautiful<\/em> Colombia?\u201d. It actually can really feel a bit like paradise at instances.<\/p>\n The cities of Medell\u00edn and Bogota are among the many most booming and cosmopolitan on the continent, full of avenue artwork, salsa dance, and colourful tradition.<\/p>\n Of course, it\u2019s not stunning that many backpackers wish to find out about Colombia\u2019s usually darkish historical past \u2014 and Pablo Escobar excursions are undoubtedly a factor<\/a>. But you\u2019ll be equally intrigued by life in Colombia immediately.<\/p>\n Culture and low are two \u2018c\u2019s that I affiliate intently with Colombia. The different \u2018c\u2019, cocaine, a lot much less so. Many Colombians despise the drug due to what it has achieved to their nation. So, it\u2019s probably not a factor until you had been to particularly search it out. There is sufficient healthful cultural curiosity to fulfill anybody, so coming for medication (and fairly a crappy drug, let\u2019s be trustworthy) is certainly not what touring Colombia is about.<\/p>\n Colombia will not be the most cost effective in South America but additionally not the most costly. It\u2019s truly a greater deal than it was once: the alternate fee with the US Dollar or Euro lately has made it about 30% cheaper than it was 7 or 8 years in the past.<\/p>\n You can get some nice worth for cash in Colombia. Hostels and guesthouses are fairly inexpensive and meals is reasonable, particularly if you happen to discover the really native locations.<\/p>\n A set meal for lunch together with soup, a most important dish with meat and lots of sides, and recent fruit juice will sometimes price about 10,000 COP, which is about $2.50. Not unhealthy! Hostel dorm beds sometimes price about 50,000 COP, and it\u2019s 100,000 COP and up for a fundamental personal room.<\/p>\n Certain experiences like the Lost City Trek<\/a> (must you want to do it) may be pretty costly, however day-to-day you may handle on a backpacker price range fairly simply.<\/p>\n Unlike another international locations, there may be much less of a set backpacker route in Colombia, with totally different vacationers going to totally different locations (or in a distinct order). Choosing your route may usually be hair-pullingly troublesome.<\/p>\n There are simply too many nice locations to go to. If you\u2019re feeling overwhelmed\u2026 I\u2019ve been there!<\/p>\n Some international locations simply make it simpler to see the highlights in a few weeks. If you\u2019re backpacking Belize<\/a> you really want only a week; backpacking Nicaragua<\/a> takes 3 weeks on the most. But Colombia may be very huge and has such a wealth of locations that it both takes extra time or simply extra deliberate selections for the place to go.<\/p>\n I backpacked via Colombia for 3 months and nonetheless felt like I wasn\u2019t achieved. I can simply see a minimum of one other 3 months of experiences that I\u2019d love to return again for.<\/p>\n But that\u2019s additionally what makes this such an ideal vacation spot. You get to select from plenty of totally different prospects. It signifies that totally different backpackers can find yourself having considerably totally different journeys in Colombia.<\/p>\n Because there are such a lot of routes you possibly can take, I wrote this waaaay-too-comprehensive information to creating your individual Colombia itinerary<\/a>, which additionally has a number of pattern itineraries you may comply with.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a good suggestion to have a tough concept of the journey you\u2019d love to do, however depart some room to improvise throughout your journey. You might wish to keep longer or shorter in locations relying on how a lot you want them.<\/p>\n When taking a look at a map of Colombia, you\u2019ll shortly discover that almost all journey locations are within the west and north.<\/p>\n Why? Well, it\u2019s easy: the jap half of Colombia is usually lined by the Amazon rainforest. These components are usually not as simply accessible. Most of the journey locations are within the extra populated areas.<\/p>\n In the north <\/strong>of Colombia, you\u2019ll discover the previous colonial metropolis of Cartagena. It has lengthy been the nation\u2019s most important vacationer draw (even in the course of the unhealthy years, as cruise ships might nonetheless dock there). It\u2019s a phenomenal place with an previous middle, albeit touristy and costlier than elsewhere in Colombia.<\/p>\n The metropolis of\u00a0Santa Marta will not be so notable in itself, but it surely makes for a superb launching level for exploring the attractive Tayrona National Park or for doing the Lost City trek<\/a>. The close by city of Taganga is Colombia\u2019s main vacation spot for scuba diving and a little bit of a backpacker hub. The small city of Minca<\/a>, additionally close to Santa Marta, is a laidback backpacker vacation spot among the many jungles and waterfalls.<\/p>\n In the middle <\/strong>is San Gil, Colombia\u2019s journey sports activities capital. Go right here for paragliding, wild water rafting, caving, and extra. The middle of Colombia can be house to its second-largest metropolis of Medell\u00edn, a fascinating place<\/a> that you just undoubtedly shouldn\u2019t skip.<\/p>\n In the south <\/strong>are the capital Bogota<\/a>, Colombia\u2019s espresso area, the town of Cali (well-known for its obsession with salsa), and Tatacoa, a desert the place years of abrasion have created some uncommon landscapes.<\/p>\n The Amazon on the coronary heart of Colombia is tremendous distant and even house to some uncontacted indigenous tribes. If you wish to go into the Amazon, flying to Leticia is probably the most dependable possibility. This city additionally has border connections with Peru<\/a> and Brazil.<\/p>\n Honestly as a lot time as you might have. But when you have at least<\/em> 2 or 3 weeks<\/strong>, you are able to do a enjoyable route that features plenty of locations.<\/p>\n If you’re touring long-term, then know that the usual visa-on-arrival provides you with 90 days in Colombia, so you actually can go sluggish if you wish to.<\/p>\n I first bought to know Colombia whereas I used to be within the midst of a 2-year round-the-world backpacking journey. I cherished Medellin a lot that I stayed for 4 weeks simply on this metropolis, dwelling a mini-life there for some time. I met some backpackers who did the identical however in Cali, taking salsa lessons each single day for weeks on finish whereas diving into the native dancing scene. This is simply to warn you that you could simply get caught!<\/p>\n In normal Colombia is a vacation spot you may take your time in because it has a great deal of selection and an ideal ambiance.<\/p>\n The hostel scene in Colombia is extraordinarily good. The high quality of the hostels may be very excessive throughout the board and it looks like they’re attempting to outdo one another with distinctive ideas or simply having an ideal vibe.<\/p>\n If you’re into youthful\/celebration hostels yow will discover a lot of them within the cities, notably Medellin. Some celebration hostels additionally exist in Palomino on the coast and in different areas.<\/p>\n Most hostels are chill\/social traveler hostels although with company\u2019 ages spanning a reasonably big selection. Some hostels (for instance in Minca) are extra like ecolodges, providing particular person jungle huts as a substitute of dorms. You can discover some particular recommendation on the greatest hostels in Medellin<\/a> and the greatest hostels in Bogota<\/a>.<\/p>\n My favourite hostel in La Candelaria, the previous city of Bogota.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n Friendly, homely hostel in well-liked Poblado space. Has on-site Spanish college & chill ambiance. 15 min stroll to probably the most enjoyable nightlife space<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n Also in Poblado; has a pool and is extra celebration oriented than Black Sheep.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n Cozy hostel with slender central courtyard making it tremendous straightforward to satisfy folks. Dorms and personal rooms.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n Hostel in a colonial home with epic views of the mountains<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Should you e book forward? <\/strong>Well, if you happen to\u2019re not choosy you may all the time discover a mattress, however the top-rated hostels do usually e book out fully. For instance, Costeno River Hostel in Minca<\/a> is extraordinarily well-rated and I came upon it was 100% full for the subsequent few weeks after I tried to remain there. If you e book with Hostelworld they often allow you to cancel without cost as much as 24 hours earlier than your keep, letting you continue to journey in a versatile means.<\/p>\n Best hostel chains: <\/strong>If you\u2019re on the lookout for barely extra premium hostels, then try Selina, a hostel chain that may be very lively in Colombia. There are a whopping three<\/em> (!) Selinas in Bogota alone (try the primary one in La Candelaria<\/a>). The Selina in Quindo<\/a> caught my eye because it\u2019s the center of the espresso nation, in addition to the one in Villa de Leyva<\/a> which is in a superbly restored colonial constructing. The Selina components is to principally supply hotel-like facilities whereas nonetheless attempting to take care of considerably of a hostel-like ambiance.<\/p>\n My favourite hostels: <\/strong>Personally, I desire staying in smaller unbiased backpacker hostels. Some of my favorites embody Black Sheep Hostel<\/a> and The Wandering Paisa<\/a> in Medellin (each are a bit like traveler establishments and nice for making pals), Casa Loma<\/a> in Minca, Utria Hostel<\/a> in Bahia Solano, and Viajero Hostel in Cartagena<\/a>.<\/p>\n Unique idea hostels: <\/strong>There are a few very distinctive hostels in Colombia. One that all the time will get talked about is Casa en el Agua<\/a>, a hostel close to the San Bernardo Islands actually constructed on the water. You can\u2019t e book it via any platforms anymore; solely through an internet kind, with cost solely through PayPal, and availability solely updating each 60 days. (I suppose it’s a must to be devoted.)<\/p>\n Another \u2018concept hostel\u2019 may be discovered south of Medellin: Casa en el Aire<\/a>, which is constructed on a cliffside the place you may chill in hammocks suspended over a valley. Pretty loopy! They get their enterprise via word-of-mouth solely; you may contact them through Whatsapp.<\/p>\n Eco hostels: <\/strong>Many hostels are principally within the type of ecolodges or are in transformed fincas <\/em>(espresso farms). The Colombian hostel chain Masaya has two unimaginable eco-hostels: the Coffee Reserve La Manchuria<\/a> and the Masaya San Agustin<\/a>. In Tayrona, try the Viajero Tayrona Hostel & Ecohabs<\/a>. Although fairly secluded, these lodging is usually a vacation spot in and of themselves.<\/p>\n Another one I can extremely advocate is Finca Carpe Diem<\/a> within the Paso del Mango valley, which is simply north of the key backpacker hub of Minca. It\u2019s one the highest-scoring hostels in all of Colombia so that is one other one price placing in a reservation for if you need the possibility to remain there. The view from the higher swimming pool is nuts.<\/p>\n Apart from the hostels, there are numerous nice native motels and guesthouses. I often keep about half my time in hostels and the opposite half in motels or guesthouses. It\u2019s greatest to make use of Hostelworld<\/a> for hostels, however use Booking.com<\/a> to seek out smaller (budget-friendly) motels.<\/p>\n The security scenario in Colombia is totally nothing like what it was in the course of the unhealthy years within the Nineteen Eighties or 1990. Colombia journey guides from a minimum of a decade in the past should still warn of kidnapping dangers or drug gang violence however fashionable editions are freed from such warnings.<\/p>\n For probably the most half and purely from the attitude of a vacationer, it\u2019s only a regular South American nation to journey via (very like Peru or Ecuador). Still, the previous picture persists.<\/p>\n Of course, as with many international locations in South America, you do want to recollect to pack your brains. So\u2026 possibly don\u2019t stroll into that darkish alley at night time. But if you happen to journey responsibly, you\u2019ll discover that Colombia is simply an unimaginable backpacking vacation spot.<\/p>\n I get the sense that Colombians are literally a bit sick of continually being requested about security by vacationers \u2014 in the identical means that Germans have that \u201csigh, here we go again\u201d <\/em>look on their faces when somebody mentions the Nazis. They\u2019re most likely a bit bored with it.<\/p>\n Then once more, Colombia is certainly not a crime-free paradise \u2014 and in some particular areas, it may be worse than different South American international locations.<\/p>\n Here are some issues to know as a way to journey responsibly:<\/p>\n While the following tips will assist preserve you secure, it\u2019s nonetheless clever to take out an excellent journey insurance coverage plan to your journey. That means, you gained\u2019t ever get financially ruined by hospital payments, theft, or emergency bills ought to something unlucky occur. It can even offer you a trusted helpline you may name or textual content if wanted.<\/p>\n I take advantage of Heymondo Travel Insurance<\/a>, which is backed by AXA (one of many world\u2019s largest insurers). They cowl virtually any sort of sport or journey exercise you would possibly do in Colombia, akin to paragliding, horseriding, or trekking, in addition to full protection for a variety of eventualities.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve been utilizing and recommending Heymondo for a number of years now as a result of they merely have a greater providing and for much less cash than different manufacturers like World Nomads. You can get a quote for journey insurance coverage at Heymondo right here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Travel insurance coverage will cowl you for theft, medical bills, cancellation, and extra. Heymondo provides nice protection, COVID-19 included<\/strong>, zero deductibles, and an app with 24\/7 help & physician chat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Colombia will not be an final cheapie like another Latin American international locations (e.g. Guatemala, Nicaragua, Peru or Bolivia). However, it\u2019s additionally not practically as costly as some others (e.g. not anyplace near Costa Rica).<\/p>\n While every thing will depend on your private journey type, I like to recommend budgeting round $40 a day when touring as a backpacker. If you\u2019re frugal, you are able to do it for about $30 a day, but it surely\u2019ll most likely contain cooking a few of your individual meals and avoiding any day excursions for probably the most half.<\/p>\n Budgets are all a bit depending on the forex alternate charges which fluctuate through the years. In Colombian pesos, contemplate a day by day backpacker price range of round 130,000 \u2013 180,000 COP<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Here are a number of money-saving suggestions:<\/p>\n The favorable alternate fee with currencies like USD and EUR lately has made Colombia extra of a cut price than it was once, so now’s fairly an advantageous time to journey there.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll discover that most individuals in Colombia don’t communicate English, however you may nonetheless survive simply superb with out Spanish. Some hostel\/resort workers and a number of the tour guides might communicate English. Not realizing the language will probably be limiting in some ways, but it surely\u2019s fully doable.<\/p>\n Knowing a minimum of some fundamental Spanish will certainly improve your expertise. It\u2019s price taking some Spanish lessons when you have the time. Language alternate occasions additionally supply enjoyable alternative to satisfy locals. Read extra suggestions right here: Do you want Spanish to journey in Latin America?<\/a><\/p>\n Besides WiFi, it\u2019s straightforward and low-cost to get a neighborhood SIM card (if you happen to really feel the should be on-line in fact). Just get your SIM in an official store in a bigger metropolis. For instance, seek for \u201ctienda claro\u201d. Claro is likely one of the most important cellular service suppliers.<\/p>\n Once you might have your pay as you go information sim, you may all the time prime it up in any small store or grocery retailer that has the Claro signal (even in very small cities). Ask them to purchase a \u2018paquote\u2019 (a top-up package deal) and get the vendor to enter the code for you.<\/p>\n The web is often fairly quick with a minimum of 4G protection. Less so in distant areas in fact.<\/p>\n To fly on to Colombia, test your choices on Skyscanner<\/a> or Google Flights. There are quite a few direct flights from all over the world to Bogota. Just a few additionally go to different cities (for instance Amsterdam to Cartagena is a direct route as of late).<\/p>\n A pleasant possibility may be to fly through Miami. This airport is tremendous well-connected internationally and with Colombia. I flew from Portugal (the place I dwell) through Miami to Cartagena, then I ended my journey flying again from Cali to Miami and residential. This averted any backtracking inside Colombia and enabled me to do a north-to-south overland route.<\/p>\n Are you on a much bigger journey? Then have in mind you may\u2019t go to or from Panama<\/a> overland! Well, you theoretically <\/em>might if you happen to had been some loopy Bears Grylls-style survivor, however the so-called Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia has no roads in any respect and is bursting with smugglers and jaguars. The prudent factor to do is to fly throughout.<\/p>\n If you like to not fly, you can even sail from Panama to Cartagena<\/a> or the opposite means round. This takes 4 or 5 days and also you\u2019ll have to discover a mattress on one of many personal crusing boats that run this route. I did this journey and it was spectacular.<\/p>\n The greatest option to get round on a backpacker price range is by bus or coach. Some may be booked on-line, however many you may solely purchase tickets for on the native bus terminal.<\/p>\n The bus stations is usually a bit complicated at first as there\u2019ll be a great deal of desks representing totally different bus corporations and locations. There gained\u2019t be a centralized departure board. Ask round if you happen to\u2019re uncertain.<\/p>\n Besides the buses for lengthy distances, you might use minivans, taxis, or moto-taxis for extra native journeys. The moto-taxis are particularly enjoyable; you\u2019ll go on the again of the bike whereas your backpack will probably be in entrance between the wheel and the motive force. They\u2019re an affordable option to get round.<\/p>\n Keep in thoughts that in Colombia not every thing might run 100% easily. Maybe your journey goes completely or possibly you\u2019ll have some delays.<\/p>\n Or possibly you occur to be in Colombia precisely on the fiesta de Virgin Del Carmen, the patron saint of transportation \u2014 a day throughout which all of the bus drivers are far too busy driving their embellished buses in zig-zag patterns throughout all accessible lanes, taking pictures fireworks from the home windows, and honking constantly to get you anyplace it’s essential be in any affordable timeframe. (Uh yeah, in order that\u2019s one factor that occurred to me. I wouldn\u2019t have needed to overlook it although!)<\/p>\n Officially talking you want a yellow fever vaccine to enter Colombia. Technically they won’t test it, but it surely\u2019s greatest to simply get it, because it\u2019s a vaccine that may final your total life. It\u2019s additionally a vaccine that\u2019s been round because the Nineteen Forties so it\u2019s been examined in each possible means.<\/p>\n That\u2019s only one much less illness to fret about \u2014 yay for vaccines! Make positive you retain your proof of vaccination that you could present if requested.<\/p>\n Now for a little bit of inspiration, let me share just some of the most effective backpacker locations in Colombia.<\/p>\n While its fashionable components jogged my memory faintly of Miami with its high-rise condos alongside the waterfront, Cartegena additionally has one of many prettiest colonial city centres in South America.<\/p>\n Picture numerous quaint homes with flowers hanging from balconies and leafy squares the place folks play chess, and avenue distributors promote bananas and different fruits. The partitions and fortresses that ring the city are price a wander, providing some vantage factors into the cobbled colonial-era streets beneath.<\/p>\n Budget vacationers ought to know that photogenic Cartagena is basically the tourism crown jewel of Colombia and so costs are fairly a bit larger than elsewhere. The neighborhood of Getsemani \u2014 which was as soon as a backpacker district, however now way more gentrified \u2014 nonetheless provides extra price range choices than contained in the walled metropolis.<\/p>\n Playa Blanca<\/strong> is a phenomenal seashore about an hour\u2019s drive exterior the town; it\u2019s a lot better than any of the town seashores, so it\u2019s definitely worth the journey.<\/p>\n Okay, I gained\u2019t fake this isn\u2019t a foolish vacationer entice, but it surely\u2019s an excessive amount of enjoyable to not point out.<\/p>\n A day journey from Cartagena,\u00a0this mud volcano<\/a> allows you to swim inside it. The viscosity of the mud\u00a0makes you\u00a0float on prime of the floor such as you\u2019re swimming within the\u00a0Dead Sea. Sometimes you keel over and should paddle like a canine to seek out your middle of gravity once more.<\/p>\n Look, no matter\u2026 simply go do it. It\u2019s hilarious.<\/p>\n The Lost City Trek is likely one of the greatest hikes I\u2019ve achieved in South America<\/strong>. It takes 4 to six days, departing from Santa Marta. The trek runs via lands owned by the indigenous Kogi as much as an historical pre-Colombian metropolis atop a mountain.<\/p>\n The ruins might not precisely be Machu Picchu, however they don’t seem to be really the purpose of this hike. The vacation spot\u00a0is simply an excuse for the journey, which meanders alongside clear river streams and thru lush inexperienced jungles.<\/p>\n You sleep in hammocks or bunks in primitive lodges\u2014they\u2019re just a few roofs with out partitions, actually, so that you\u2019re primarily sleeping out within the open save to your mosquito internet. At night time you\u2019ll go to sleep to an orchestra of crickets, frogs, and monkeys.<\/p>\n Is a 5 day hike a little bit too lengthy to your itinerary? Then you\u2019ll discover some shorter walks in Tayrona National Park.<\/p>\n The 3-hour hike via the jungle to the ruins of Pueblito is one possibility, as is a hike to the seashore of Cabo San Juan.<\/p>\n Tayrona Park itself has a number of lovely secluded seashores and an opportunity to see plenty of\u00a0wildlife. You can camp in a single day contained in the nationwide park in\u00a0Cabo San Juan<\/strong> and sleep in a hammock or tent.<\/p>\n Some backpackers do complain concerning the considerably inflated costs for meals and lodging contained in the park, although realistically you may in a single day in Tayrona for as little as $20. It\u2019s greatest to e book your hammock or tent upfront although as areas are restricted.<\/p>\n Minca is an interesting instance of a vacation spot that\u2019s develop into \u2018discovered\u2019 by backpackers in just some years. When I backpacked Colombia for the primary time in 2012 nobody had heard of Minca and everybody simply stayed in Santa Marta or Taganga. When I went to Colombia once more in 2022, Minca was all anybody would speak about. A brand new street had made this city extra accessible and turned it into an ecotourism hotspot.<\/p>\n It\u2019s the truth is a tremendous little place. The small mountain city itself will not be so massively outstanding, although it has some good cafes and eating places. But probably the most wonderful areas are within the jungles across the city, providing epic views of the Sierra Nevada National Park.<\/p>\n There are numerous hostels in Minca with a tremendous vibe. Everyone simply involves Minca to chill out, to see tropical birds, to hike, or to journey a scooter across the mountain roads. I believe it\u2019s price staying 3 nights at least.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t miss my information for the greatest locations to remain in Minca<\/a>.<\/p>\n San Gil within the Santander area is Colombia\u2019s capital of journey sports activities. Go there for rafting (as much as class 5 rapids, i.e. there\u2019s some loopy\u00a0<\/em>rafting right here), paragliding (beginning at $40), kayaking, canyoning, mountain biking, and extra. I did some tandem paragliding right here which was nice enjoyable.<\/p>\n Besides the journey actions, the city of San Gil is price taking a look at as effectively, which has some good botanical gardens and distributors promoting plates of fried giant-bottomed ants<\/a>. They\u2019re crispy and salty like popcorn. Om-nom-nom!<\/p>\n Barichara is a city in northern Colombia identified for its cobbled streets and colonial structure. It makes for a pleasant day journey from San Gil.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll discover some previous church buildings\u00a0and cemeteries, a number of small museums, and a historic strolling path that takes about 2 hours and connects the picturesque cities of Barichara and Guane.<\/p>\n Many huge cities in Latin America is usually a letdown as they are usually chaotic and overwhelming. Medellin, then again, has an actual cultural coronary heart that\u2019s straightforward to like. It might look grungy at first look, however give it one other look and also you\u2019ll discover an interesting metropolis to discover.<\/p>\n Its city renewal over the previous few years has been incomes Medellin many worldwide innovation awards, with squares that had been as soon as the websites of cartel battles now changing into thriving public areas, considered one of them doubling as an open-air mini-museum that includes sculptures by\u00a0Fernando Botero.<\/p>\n I like to recommend trying out the\u00a0Plaza Botero<\/strong>, the\u00a0Minorista market<\/strong>\u00a0(a conventional farmer\u2019s market),\u00a0and\u00a0Parque Lleras<\/strong> at night time (a enjoyable nightlife space the place folks spill out from the bars into the streets and patios). Be positive to journey the metrocable as much as\u00a0Parque Arvi<\/strong>, go to the Joaquin Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden,\u00a0<\/strong>and go to the Medell\u00edn Museum of Modern Art\u00a0<\/strong>as effectively.\u00a0I may extremely advocate occurring a tropical fruit tasting tour.<\/a><\/p>\n If you\u2019ve bought the possibility to see a soccer match in Medellin, remember to take it. The degree of ardour from the supporters is certain to depart an impression. Things can get very mosh-pitty once they rating a aim although, so go together with a little bit group if you happen to can.<\/p>\n Many travellers keep within the Poblado<\/strong> space of Medellin, which is a excessive\/middle-class residential neighborhood with an excellent popularity for security, and inside strolling distance of the\u00a0Parque Lleras nightlife as effectively. You\u2019ll additionally discover a excessive focus of hostels and guesthouses in\u00a0Laureles <\/strong>(and the adjoining\u00a0Libertadores<\/strong>), which has fewer hipster cafes than Poblado and extra of a neighborhood vibe. I loved staying in each these neighborhoods.<\/p>\n If you wish to study extra about Medellin\u2019s previous, go<\/strong> on the Real City tour.<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>It\u2019s probably the greatest metropolis excursions I\u2019ve achieved anyplace. <\/em>It tells you in very emotionally partaking methods concerning the historical past of the town and the nation. After this tour, you\u2019re assured to really feel a brand new emotional reference to Colombia and a deeper understanding of what\u2019s occurred right here over the previous few many years.<\/p>\n A touristy however enjoyable day journey from Medellin (even perhaps warranting an in a single day keep) is the historic city of Guatape, famed for its vibrant homes with superbly sculpted depictions of village life adorning the decrease half of each facade. There are some arts and craft outlets, and a few historic colonial-era church buildings.<\/p>\n But the primary spotlight is Piedra del Pe\u00f1ol.\u00a0<\/strong>This uncommon rock formation was as soon as worshipped by the indigenous tribes and given the\u00a0imposing look of this monolith it\u2019s straightforward to see why. You can climb stairs to the highest from the place you might have an ideal view of the encircling lakes.<\/p>\n Guatape is a little bit of a resort city for Colombians, so across the rock you\u2019ll additionally discover a vary of vacationer actions akin to boat excursions across the lakes and excessive sports activities akin to hold gliding and jet snowboarding.<\/p>\n The capital of Bogota has plenty of issues to see and do, however I\u2019d advocate doing a number of issues particularly. First, go on a Bogota bicycle tour<\/a>. You\u2019ll be capable to cowl plenty of floor and acquire a better understanding of the town.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll see stuff you often wouldn\u2019t see: for example, why are all these shady-looking males loitering exterior this one explicit constructing? Turns out they’re grey-market emerald sellers attempting to dump their gem stones to the best bidder. You\u2019ll see a number of the metropolis\u2019s most eye-catching avenue artwork as effectively, and get to pattern uncommon tropical fruits on the native market.<\/p>\n Bogota additionally has a lot of museums. Don\u2019t miss the\u00a0Botero Museum<\/strong> and the National Museum<\/strong>, and particularly the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum)\u00a0<\/strong>which has a shocking assortment of\u00a0pre-Columbian gold artefacts.<\/p>\n Finally, it\u2019s price taking the cable automobile\u00a0<\/strong>to\u00a0Monserrate Mountain<\/strong>, from the place you get an outstanding view of the town beneath.<\/p>\n The small city of Salento in Colombia\u2019s espresso area is a superb spot to remain for a number of days. After spending time within the cities, you might simply want to wind down for some time on this slow-paced rural place (although it\u2019s been getting extra crowded lately).<\/p>\n Tours of a number of the native natural espresso farms can educate you concerning the espresso rising and roasting course of, although there may be way more to see and do in Salento.<\/p>\n Make positive you hike to the Cocora Valley<\/strong>, house to some gasp-inducingly\u00a0tall wax palm timber.<\/p>\n Growing as much as 70 meters, they\u2019re claimed by some to be a number of the tallest on the earth. The hike begins alongside a mountain stream, crosses over some previous swing bridges, and passes via some cloud forests (don\u2019t miss the hummingbird sanctuary), earlier than lastly reaching the valley with\u00a0the imposing palm timber<\/a>.<\/p>\n The space can be a favourite place to go trekking<\/strong> or horseback using<\/strong>. A enjoyable factor you are able to do on the town\u00a0in the course of the night is to play Tejo<\/strong>, a conventional Colombian recreation that entails throwing metallic balls at a goal lined with gunpowder. It\u2019s good explosive enjoyable!<\/p>\n The Tatacoa Desert, not removed from the southern metropolis of Neiva, is likely one of the hottest locations in Colombia. You\u2019ll end up in the course of an arid expanse, house of vultures and eagles, with the beginning of the Andes mountain vary off within the distance.<\/p>\n A labyrinth of rocky canyons fashioned by years of abrasion is the primary attraction right here \u2014 it\u2019s a surreal little place that\u2019s enjoyable to get misplaced in.<\/p>\n Due to the low gentle air pollution, it\u2019s additionally an ideal spot for stargazing. A resident astronomer offers shows each night time, which had been sadly exhausting for me to comply with with my restricted Spanish. But he did say \u201cGoopitar\u201d so much (I believe that was Jupiter), and he most likely mentioned some issues concerning the enlargement of the universe. Either means, I bought to see the rings of Saturn via a telescope, which was wonderful.<\/p>\n Some hyperlinks could also be affiliate hyperlinks, which means I could earn fee from services or products I like to recommend. For extra, see website insurance policies<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nPlan your Colombia backpacking journey<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
Why go <\/strong>backpacking Colombia?<\/h2>\n
Incredibly assorted<\/h5>\n
![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/P1360437-2-530x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/barichara-1-720x682.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nAmazing biodiversity<\/h5>\n
![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360368-530x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/P1360713-720x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBursting with tradition<\/h5>\n
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\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360077-720x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nEasy to journey on a price range<\/h5>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360037.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBackpacking <\/strong>routes<\/h2>\n
Where to journey in Colombia<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/colombia_itineraries_routes_tourist_destinations_map-min-688x1024.png\")
<\/p>\nHow a lot time do you want?<\/h3>\n
Accommodation<\/strong> in Colombia<\/h2>\n
What\u2019s the hostel scene like?<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360339.jpg\")
Amazing hostels in Colombia<\/h4>\n
Hostal R10<\/a><\/h5>\n
Black Sheep Hostel<\/a><\/h5>\n
Casa Kiwi\t<\/a><\/h5>\n
El Viajero\t<\/a><\/h5>\n
Viajero Hostel<\/a><\/h5>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/P1360412.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/GOPR0360.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/P1360213.jpg\")
Is Colombia<\/strong> secure?<\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1370110.jpg\")
<\/p>\n\n
Psst, do you might have insurance coverage for Colombia?<\/h3>\n
Travel Advice<\/span><\/h4>\n
![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/featurepic_insurance_2-250x250.jpg\")
<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBackpacking<\/strong> Colombia suggestions<\/h2>\n
Travel prices<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360938.jpg\")
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Do it’s essential know Spanish?<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360031.jpg\")
<\/p>\nInternet in Colombia<\/h3>\n
Getting to Colombia<\/h3>\n
How to get round<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360960.jpg\")
<\/p>\nYellow fever vaccine<\/h3>\n
Backpacking<\/strong> locations<\/h2>\n
Colonial\u00a0City of Cartagena<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1350818.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360089-530x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360050-720x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFloat in Totumo Volcano mud baths<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/dsc00210-2__large.jpg\")
<\/p>\nTrek to the Lost City<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/IMG_2780.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/IMG_2716-530x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/IMG_2591-720x683.jpg\")
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nExplore Tayrona Park<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/tayrona_beach.jpg\")
<\/p>\nStay in Minca<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/P1360383.jpg\")
<\/p>\nSan Gil: the hub for journey sports activities<\/h4>\n
![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/img_2871__large.jpg\")
<\/p>\nVisit the city of Barichara<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/img_3240__large.jpg\")
<\/p>\nDiscover cultural Medellin<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3264.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/img_3278__large.jpg\")
<\/p>\nClimb the massive rock of Guatape<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/img_3482__large.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/img_3427__large.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCity excursions & museums in Bogota<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3873.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3953.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3865.jpg\")
Coffee farms in Salento<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3518.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/img_3699__large.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3600.jpg\")
<\/p>\nStargaze in\u00a0Tatacoa desert<\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3724.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.indietraveller.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/02\/IMG_3726.jpg\")
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