Colombia Highlights

An exceptional example of sustainable and cultural heritage, Colombia’s Coffee Cultural Landscape (CCL) is a system of collectively cultivated coffee plantations set in a mountainous region. It consists of six sites that include eighteen urban settlements. These towns, mostly located on the relatively flat hilltops above sloping coffee fields, are characterized by Antioquian colonial architecture with strong Spanish influence.

The valley is famed for its abundance of Quindío wax palms, Colombia’s national tree and the tallest palm in the world. Visit aboard Jeep Willys, the first U.S. military WWII Jeeps (M38 or CJ-2A models) imported to Colombia for defense but never used in combat. Local farmers quickly adopted them to replace overworked mules in the mountainous coffee-growing region. Many roads, even today, remain single-track dirt paths.

Enjoy the diverse sights on a horseback ride through the Coffee Cultural Landscape, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

Head to a traditional coffee plantation in the Coffee Cultural Landscape to learn about the importance of coffee in Colombian culture and the economy. See where the beans are grown, how they are harvested and roasted, and enjoy a steaming cup at the end of the tour.

Visit the photogenic village of Salento, the oldest municipality in the department of Quindío. Traditional architecture and local handicrafts make it an unforgettable destination. Stroll past colorful colonial houses, admire balconies overflowing with flowers, and enjoy a warm welcome from the community.

Dancing in Colombia is an important form of socializing, and bambuco is the most representative genre in the Andean region. It blends Spanish, African, and Indigenous styles. After a welcome ceremony from hosts eager to preserve local customs, let go of your inhibitions and join the fun, letting the music guide your movements.

Discover Medellín, the “City of Eternal Spring,” on a guided tour that showcases its inspiring transformation. Ride the iconic Metrocable for panoramic views and visit cultural gems like Plaza Botero, home to Fernando Botero’s famous sculptures, and the Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture—symbols of a city reborn through innovation and resilience.

Visit the breathtaking Rock of Guatapé, a 200-meter-high monolith just outside Medellín. Climb its 740 steps for panoramic views of lush mountains and shimmering lakes. Then explore the colorful village of Guatapé, known for its vibrant zócalos (painted baseboards), charming church, and artistic streetscapes. A perfect blend of nature and culture.

Watch local dancers sway, clap, and stomp to lively salsa rhythms, then try the steps yourself in a fun Medellín dance lesson.

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of Cartagena, a historic port city on the Caribbean Sea. Stroll through the walled Old Town with its cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. Visit the iconic Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas and its tunnels, and see the statue of Don Blas de Lezo, a symbol of the city’s rich heritage.

Experience the authentic culture of Getsemaní, Cartagena’s vibrant and artistic neighborhood. Walk past striking murals and storytelling walls that highlight social issues like gentrification, racism, indigenous rights, and honor local hero Pedro Romero. It’s a powerful blend of history, activism, and creativity.

Discover the rich Afro-Caribbean heritage of La Boquilla, a coastal village near Cartagena that preserves traditional African-influenced styles of dress, food, and language. Join local fishermen in a canoe through the mangroves of the Ciénaga de Juan Polo lagoon, where you’ll learn to catch fish and seafood using time-honored techniques. Enjoy vibrant music, unique cuisine, and deep cultural roots.

Canoe through winding channels and tunnels formed by dense mangrove forests, and learn about the traditional lifestyle of La Boquilla. Discover how locals live off the sea using age-old techniques. For safety, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

Escape to the Rosario Islands, a stunning archipelago just an hour by boat from Cartagena. Home to 27 islands and 20 hectares of coral reefs, this protected area offers crystal-clear waters, gentle breezes, and vibrant marine life. On a day trip to Majagua Island, relax on the beach, snorkel through turquoise waters, and explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the Caribbean coast.