Choose from 91 Fun Things to Do in Colombia
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 91 listings.
How to Get There
Las Bovedas
At the northeastern corner of the old walled city is Cartagena’s grandest arcade, stretching with imperial purpose from Santa Clara to Santa Catalina Fortress. Behind the 47 painted archways are a string colorful souvenir shops, well stocked with all the emeralds, Botero knockoffs, hammocks, hats and molas that your coworkers and catsitters might desire. These unusually proportioned alcoves are interspersed with equally cramped bars, galleries, and other businesses. It’s a fun place to shop and photogenic spot to enjoy, but the rather oppressive barrel ceilings that overarch each vault (boveda) come with a bit of history.
The vaulted alcoves were originally built into the massive sea wall between 1792 and 1796, and at first used to store provisions. They were repurposed during the early 1800s as an incredibly uncomfortable prison. The extent city’s thick walls—up to 15m (50ft) against the sea and its uncertainties—can really be appreciated while you bargain for a new pair of earrings.
The vaulted alcoves were originally built into the massive sea wall between 1792 and 1796, and at first used to store provisions. They were repurposed during the early 1800s as an incredibly uncomfortable prison. The extent city’s thick walls—up to 15m (50ft) against the sea and its uncertainties—can really be appreciated while you bargain for a new pair of earrings.
Address: Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia
Hours: Open Daily
From $ 18
Mundo Aventura Theme Park (Parque Mundo Aventura)
One of Bogota’s top family attractions, Salitre Magico is an adventure theme park with around 40 attractions suitable for a variety of age groups. Rides include classics such as roller coasters, bumper cars, flying swings, a carousel, and a miniwheel, along with high octane rides such as the Tornado, the Double Loop, and the Screw.
In addition to rides, there are also various shows, activities, and places to eat and drink within the park. Those looking for an action packed family-friendly day out can visit Salitre Magico as part of a half or full day tour that includes the Children’s Museum of Bogota, the Maloka Museum, and the Mundo Aventura Theme Park.
Insider’s Tip: Admission into the Mundo Aventura Theme Park is free, but in order toaccess the attractions you need to purchase one of the park’s “passports,” which offer varying degrees of access.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, the Mundo Aventura Theme Park can be reached by bus on various routes by alighting at the ‘World Adventure’ station.
Address: Carrera 71D, No. 114 Sur, Bogota, Colombia
Hours: 10am-7pm
Admission: Attractions from 30,900 COP
From $ 114
Museo Botero
The sensuous silhouettes and deliciously plump proportions of his subjects have become famous the world over. His presidents and prostitutes, bullfights and firefights, capture the Colombian experience with a whimsy that belies otherwise serious scenes shattered by earthquakes, war and relationships. All are instantly recognizable as Botero.
While Fernando Botero’s unparalleled talent across multiple mediums—from sculpture to watercolor to charcoal—has earned him international acclaim, it is his generosity that has made the artist Colombia’s favorite son. At the peak of his fame, the artist donated 208 pieces to the government of Colombia including 85 pieces by other masters including Chagall, Renoir and Monet. The entire collection was valued at $200 million; you are invited to enjoy it all for free.
You are beckoned into the museum—which Botero designed himself, as part of the deal—by a huge (and of course, pudgy) hand, the backdrop to one of Bogota’s classic photo ops. From here, you’ll wend your way past two stories of some of Botero’s best work. Enormous canvases pack a punch in the cool, white galleries while smooth, gleaming sculptures—some innovatively displayed, such as Adam and Eve—provoke as much thought as pleasure. The international masters are just as lovingly displayed.
The 1753 Casa de Moneda (House of Money) and Banco de la Republica Art Collection, both in the same complex and free to the public, are also well worth a wander.
Address: Calle 11 no. 4-41, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia
Hours: Mon, Wed-Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm
From $ 23
Plaza de San Diego
In Cartagena's Old Town, every evening the Plaza de San Diego becomes lively with street performers entertaining the crowds. Vendors sell everything from jewelry to Cuban cigars to paintings, and as the day ends, the traffic gets blocked on two sides so that more outdoor seating can be laid on outside the restaurants lining the square.
Surrounded by ice cream-colored buildings and bougainvillea-covered balconies just outside the Old Town’s core area, the Plaza de San Diego is a lasting relic of the wealth Cartagena held during the days of the gold, sugar, and slave trade's peak. Home to the famous Hotel Santa Clara, the square is a popular place to sit down, order a drink or a bite to eat, and watch the world go by while listening to live music by the local street performers.
Practical Info
The Plaza de San Diego is on Ciudad Amurallada in Cartagena's Old Town.
Address: Plaza de San Diego, Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia, Colombia
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 22
Museo del Oro (Gold Museum)
Among Bogota’s most popular and spectacular attractions, the Museo del Oro sparkles with more than 55,000 priceless archaeological and artistic treasures. Only a fraction can be displayed at any one time within the main edifice, itself a work of art, ensconced in elegantly and eloquently designed displays of Colombia’s dazzling bounty.
There are four floors of exhibits, signed in both Spanish and English, with audio guides available in a handful of other languages. From delicate filigree nose rings to carefully crafted containers for coca leaves to the famed “Muisca Raft,” depicting the legend of El Dorado, the “Golden Man,” these objects have been innovatively arranged to tell tales of pre-Colombian mining, manufacturing and metallurgy, as well as offer insight into the daily life, society, war and worship of these ancient Colombians.
The grand finale is the Offering Room, less an exhibit than light-and-sound show designed to recreate the experience of a shamanic religious ceremony, using tens of thousands of golden artifacts. The gift shop is also worth a wander as you exit the building.
Of course, all that glitters in Colombia is not gold, which is why you could consider crossing Santander Park to the Emerald Museum, actually a private collection of some 3000 Colombian emeralds. Views from the 23rd story of the Avianca Building are spectacular, but you must have picture ID to enter.
There are four floors of exhibits, signed in both Spanish and English, with audio guides available in a handful of other languages. From delicate filigree nose rings to carefully crafted containers for coca leaves to the famed “Muisca Raft,” depicting the legend of El Dorado, the “Golden Man,” these objects have been innovatively arranged to tell tales of pre-Colombian mining, manufacturing and metallurgy, as well as offer insight into the daily life, society, war and worship of these ancient Colombians.
The grand finale is the Offering Room, less an exhibit than light-and-sound show designed to recreate the experience of a shamanic religious ceremony, using tens of thousands of golden artifacts. The gift shop is also worth a wander as you exit the building.
Of course, all that glitters in Colombia is not gold, which is why you could consider crossing Santander Park to the Emerald Museum, actually a private collection of some 3000 Colombian emeralds. Views from the 23rd story of the Avianca Building are spectacular, but you must have picture ID to enter.
Address: Calle 16 No. 5-41, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia
Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-4pm
Admission: 2,800 pesos (<$2 USD)
From $ 21
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica
Medellin’s main Cathedral, along with thickly shaded Parque Bolivar—once Medellin’s most important plaza—now seem suffocated by the claustrophobic urban chaos that is downtown. The narrow streets and gritty scene make it a bit difficult to appreciate this amazing structure from up close.
Officially called the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Contraception of Mary, this is the largest brick building in the world, and largest cathedral in South America. Designed by French architect Emile Charles Carre and completed in 1931, the tawny towers took 56 years, all total, to build. Look for it as you zip past on rapid transit, with a vantage that allows you to appreciate the enormity of its construction.
The cavernous interior is a bit spare and spooky, but the epic interior arches are well worth a look. This area gets seedy after dark (Bolivar Park, out front, isn’t exactly wholesome even at noon), so stay alert if you’re here for evening Mass.
Officially called the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Contraception of Mary, this is the largest brick building in the world, and largest cathedral in South America. Designed by French architect Emile Charles Carre and completed in 1931, the tawny towers took 56 years, all total, to build. Look for it as you zip past on rapid transit, with a vantage that allows you to appreciate the enormity of its construction.
The cavernous interior is a bit spare and spooky, but the epic interior arches are well worth a look. This area gets seedy after dark (Bolivar Park, out front, isn’t exactly wholesome even at noon), so stay alert if you’re here for evening Mass.
Address: Carrera 48, Calle 56, Medellin, Colombia
Hours: Mornings and evenings
From $ 32
Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands are a highlight of Colombia’s Caribbean Coast, famous for their vibrant marine life, pristine white beaches, and sun-soaked beach resorts. A cluster of 28 idyllic islands dotted offshore of the port city of Cartagena, this archipelago sits atop the world’s third-largest barrier reef and makes up Islas del Rosario National Park.
The Basics
Although many of the islands are private and therefore off-limits, the larger islands of Isla Grande, Isla Rosario, and Isla Caribaru draw a steady stream of day-trippers. Full-day tours from Cartagena often focus on Isla Barú, which lies closest to the mainland and houses attractions such as Playa Blanca, Playa Azul, the Bay of Cholón, and the fortresses of San Fernando and San Jose.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to take everything you need, as there are no shops on the islands. Sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a sunhat are essentials.
- Bring cash if you want to purchase food or drinks from beach kiosks—many do not accept credit cards.
- Wi-Fi can be scarce on the islands, but some resorts offer paid or free access.
- Many passenger ferries and private boats to the Rosario Islands are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the operator in advance.
How to Get There
The Rosario Islands are located roughly 60 miles (100 kilometers) off the coast of Cartagena and are reachable only by boat. Fast boats take about 45 minutes to reach the islands, embarking from La Bodeguita Pier in central Cartagena.
When to Get There
The region’s dry summer (December through February) is the most popular time to visit the Rosario Islands, and resorts can fill up quickly during this time. Thanks to the mild Caribbean climate it’s possible to visit year-round, and off-season visitors can benefit from reduced rates on tours and accommodation.
Marine Life of the Rosario Islands
The crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs of Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park (Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo) offer ample opportunities for water sports, especially snorkeling and scuba diving. Those venturing underwater can admire calcareous algae, anemones, sponges, dusters, and sea lilies; spot exotic marine life including spadefish, clown fish, barracuda, moray eels, and manta rays; or head to the Oceanary on Isla Rosario to see sharks, giant sea turtles, and dolphins.
Address: Colombia
From $ 29
Salitre Mágico
One of Bogota’s top family attractions, Salitre Magico is an adventure theme park with around 40 attractions suitable for a variety of age groups. Rides include classics such as roller coasters, bumper cars, flying swings, a carousel, and a miniwheel, along with high octane rides such as the Tornado, the Double Loop, and the Screw.
In addition to rides, there are also various shows, activities, and places to eat and drink within the park. Those looking for an actionpacked familyfriendly day out can visit Salitre Magico as part of a half or fullday tour that includes the Children’s Museum of Bogota, the Maloka Museum, and the Mundo Aventura Theme Park.
Insider’s Tip: Weekends at Salitre Magico can become incredibly busy, with long lines for the most popular attractions. Visiting on a weekday and arriving early is recommended if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.
Practical Info
Salitre Magico is located just to the north of Simon Bolivar Park in the center of Bogota. If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can access it via bus, with various routes serving the area.
Address: Calle 63, No. 6080, Bogota, Colombia
Hours: Wednesdays: 10am-6pm / Weekends: 10:30am-7:30pm / Closed on
Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays
Admission: Passes from 37,000 COP for adults / 32,000 COP for children
From $ 114
Plaza de Bolivar
Enormous and austere, Bogota’s
broad, bricked central plaza was designed in 1553 to be the gathering place for
tens of thousands at the hub of the federal government. Once known simply as
the Plaza Mayor (Main Plaza) and serving as home to the city market, the plaza is a classic
example of monumental Spanish civil engineering. Some of Bogota's most important edifices sit in the area: the soaring neoclassical national cathedral;
the appropriately federalist capitol building; French neoclassical Edificio
Liévano, seat of city government; and the ultra-modern stylized arches of the
imposing Palace of Justice, most recently rebuilt after a 1985 terrorist
attack.
At the center of it all is the statue of Simón Bolívar, erected in 1846 to honor the man who liberated so much of South America from the Spanish.
At the center of it all is the statue of Simón Bolívar, erected in 1846 to honor the man who liberated so much of South America from the Spanish.
Unless there’s a festival or
political rally, the enormous brick expanse is fairly quiet, quickly
crisscrossed by crisply suited officials talking seriously into cell phones, vendors
selling snacks, souvenirs and photos with adorably outfitted llamas, and the
constant thrum of pigeon wings as great flocks whirl around endlessly. The
people-watching is outstanding, and you’re a stone's throw from a dozen museums,
churches and other attractions well worth seeing.
Address: Carrera 8, Bogota, Cundinamarca, Colombia
From $ 20
Metrocable
The beautiful city of Medellin has an efficient metro system that runs north-south along the valley, but for many years the neighborhoods in the surrounding mountains found it difficult to get to the public transportation routes. It was difficult for buses to get up the steep roads leading up to the barrios in the hills, and it would take residents hours to get down to city to work or study. These transportation difficulties increased social problems in these communities.
But in 2004 a new, ingenuous new cable car system came into use. It is part of the public transportation service from the neighborhoods in the mountains surrounding the city to the metro system in the valley.
This cable car carries tens of thousands of passengers each day in a system that has changed the lives of those who live in these neighborhoods, giving them access to work and study opportunities they didn’t have before. The trip to the city that once took hours now takes just 15 minutes. This is the cheapest cable car ride you’ll ever take, included in the basic metro fare of just one dollar. There are four stations that head east up the mountains, providing amazing views of the city in the valley and the surrounding green hills. It’s clean, safe, fast and fun; you can stop at each station along the way, check out the view, then continue up the mountain on the next car.
This system has had such success that it inspired other cable cars in South America, such as the one in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which is also used to serve communities in the mountains.
Practical Info
The cable car system runs Monday through Saturday from 4:30am to 11pm and Sundays and holidays from 9am to 10pm. Line L goes to Parque Arvi, a large park outside of the city. There is an extra fare of about $2 to ride this line.
Address: Medellin, Colombia
Admission: $1
From $ 28
Jardín
Jardín, a town in the mountains just four hours to the south of Medellin, preserves a colonial appearance that seems unchanged by the modern advances of this century.
The town’s name is no mystery—its beautiful garden-like atmosphere and lush green landscapes enchant visitors. Enjoy the peace and calm in this laid-back town that is not on the typical tourist trail. The beautiful tree-lined plaza is perfect to relax and observe daily life. The main square is lined with cafes and restaurants with colorful tables and chairs, and the striking neo-Gothic Basilica Menor de la Inmaculada Conception is close by. Whitewashed colonial houses in town have brightly painted doors, balconies and hanging baskets.
There’s also plenty of scenery to take in. There are trout farms for fishing and an old-fashioned cable car above the river that extends across the valley and up into the mountains. At the lookout point there are views of the town and a café to have something to eat. Visitors also have the opportunity to walk around the farms.
The Cave of Splendor (La Cueva del Esplendor), a waterfall within a cave, is a six-hour roundtrip trek along narrow, steep, mountain paths. Along the way, admire the mountains with their banana and coffee plantations. It’s recommended to go with a guide who knows the terrain.
Practical Info
It’s easy to get a bus from the Terminal del Sur bus terminal in Medellin heading to Jardín. Once in the town, walking is the best way to get around.
Address: Jardin, Colombia
From $ 110
Mount Monserrate
Mists permitting, you’ll be able to see the gleaming white Basílica del Señor de Monserrate high above the city, beckoning from the thickly forested mountains that form Bogota’s spectacular backdrop. Originally built as a monastery in 1657, it is no wonder that this glorious spot has been a site of pilgrimage ever since.
The original stone path marked by statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross still leads from the colonial Candelaria district up to the sanctuary. It is a steep climb to a chilly 3152m (10,339ft) still used by pilgrims (and exercise buffs), particularly on weekends and religious holidays. Most tourists take advantage of either the funicular, a steeply pitched train, or teleferico, a cable car system, which both make the trip inexpensively throughout the day. If you do choose to walk, note that there have been muggings, so it might not be the best choice if you’re alone with an expensive camera.
And you’ll definitely want your camera with you, as the fantastic city views are worth remembering. If the mountain mists pour in over your visit, obscuring the city below, you’ll still enjoy exploring the whitewashed sanctuary and its unusual icons, the Black Virgin and Fallen Christ. Wandering through the simple yet inspiring compound, with its cobbled plazas and red tiled roofs, all wrapped in luxuriant high Andean forest, is a treat no matter what the weather. Two upscale onsite restaurants offer the option of enjoying a little more ambiance with your visit.
Address: Bogota, Cundinamarca, Colombia
From $ 16
Parque 93
Parque 93 is more than a grassy square in the center of Bogotá. It is one of the centerpieces of the city with great restaurants, exciting nightlife and outdoor activities. Many locals come here for a walk, for a sporty outing and a picnic with friends or decide to attend one of the numerous events. Not only are there are regular festivals and art installations taking place under the shady trees, but the park is often frequented by Bogotá’s wealthy. Thus, if you plan on a night out in Parque 93, be prepared to be surrounded by the local jet set crowd.
Head to Bardot Bar, which is popular with the Colombian models and actors, or pop in at the Bogota Beer Company, where you can get some of the city’s best brews. At El Salto Del Angel you can grab both a steak and prove your salsa skills on the dance floor. Classic Colombian parties can be found at Kukaramakara and El Sitio, which are a favorite among the local crowd and feature local bands.
Practical Info
Parque 93 can be found between Calles 93A and 93B and Carreras 11A and 13, just north of Zona Rosa. The closest Transmilenio stop is Virrey, which is about 1.5 kilometers away, but once there or if you feel like switching venues, it is easiest to get around the neighborhood on foot.
Address: Carrera 13 entre 93A y 93B, Bogotá, Columbia, Colombia
From $ 30
National Capitol (Capitolio Nacional)
Home to both the Columbian Congress and Senate, the grand National Capitol (Capitolio Nacional) building is the center of Colombian politics and makes a striking sight, looming over the south end of Bolivar Square.
With its dramatic colonnaded frontage, central dome and neoclassical design, the National Capitol building is also one of Bogota’s most significant architectural works. The masterpiece of British architect, Thomas Reed, it took over 75 years to complete and was finally completed in 1926. The building’s crowning glory was added in 1947 – a magnificent fresco by Santiago Martínez Delgado, depicting the Bolivar and Santander leaving the famous Cucuta congress.
Practical Info
The National Capitol (Capitolio Nacional) is located on Bolivar Square in central Bogotá and is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. Public access is strictly limited and by appointment only.
Address: Carrera 7, Cl. 10, Bogotá, Colombia
Hours: Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
From $ 20
Maloka Museum
One of Bogota’s top family attractions, the Maloka Museum is an interactive center of science and technology aimed at children. For a truly fulfilled adventure with the kids, many choose to visit the Maloka Museum as part of a half or full day tour that includes the Children’s Museum of Bogota, plus the Salitre Magico and Mundo Aventura theme parks.
The museum features various rooms themed on different aspects of science and technology. The Telecommunications Room has interactive games relating to computers and the binary system, the City Room explores the development and history of Bogota via 3D images, plus there are the Human, Universe, Petroleum, Water, Biodiversity, and Boys & Girls rooms to explore. The museum also has an Activity Zone with math games and activities, plus a Cine Domo, which shows 40-minute documentaries on a huge dome ceiling.
Insider’s Tip: The Universe Room is one of the most popular rooms in the museum, mainlybecause visitors can get involved in experiments, such as comparing their weight on various planets in the solar system.
Practical Info
The Maloka Museum is located to the west of Simón Bolívar Park, and a short walk from the bus station in the neighborhood of La Salitre.
Address: Carrera 68D, No. 24A51, Bogota, Colombia
Hours: 9am-6pm, Monday to Friday / 10am-7pm, weekends and holidays
Admission: Museum: 15,900 COP / Cinemas: 10,500 COP / Both: 20,000 COP
From $ 10
Popayán
Founded by Sebastián de Belalcázar in 1537, the one-time regional capital of Popayán is best known for its abundance of whitewashed buildings, earning it the nickname "Ciudad Blanca" or the "White City." Today, Popayán remains among Colombia’s most remarkably preserved colonial cities, flanked by dramatic mountain peaks and home to one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious universities, which counts an impressive 16 Colombian presidents among its alumni.
Popayán's principal attraction is its colonial architecture, highlights of which include the San Francisco, Santo Domingo and La Hermita churches; the monumental Puente del Humilladero bridge; the central Parque de Caldas, overlooked by the landmark Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower); and the cathedral, which houses the 16th-century Crown of the Andes. Another draw is the nearby Purace National Park, where the now-dormant Puracé volcano has sculpted a landscape of snow-capped peaks, natural waterfalls and hot springs.
Popayán also made history in 2005, when it became UNESCO’s first ever City of Gastronomy (and the only one in Latin America), honoring the city’s varied culinary traditions and making it the ideal destination for traveling foodies to sample regional specialties like Sancocho, Tamales de Pipían and Carantanta.
Practical Info
Popayán is located in Cauca, southwest Colombia, about 130 km south of Cali.
Address: Popayán, Cauca, Colombia, Colombia
From $ 124
Parque Explora
With its modernist façade, bright red roof and funky urban design, it’s clear from the outsetthat Parque Explora is a museum for the modern age. Fun, interactive and engaging for all ages, this is one of Colombia’s most popular science museums, with an incredible 120,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibitions.
The museum hosts over 300 interactive displays and activities, based around the themes of neuroscience, physics and communication, plus a 3D projection hall, a planetarium and an
impressive display of 22 animatronic dinosaurs. Another highlight is the indoor aquarium center, the largest freshwater aquarium in Latin America, where visitors can learn more about the Amazon region, spot over 400 different species of fish and see the world's most poisonous frog.
Practical Info
Parque Explora is located in the North zone of Medellín and is open Tues-Sun from 8.30am - 5.30pm, and Sat-Sun from 10am -6.30pm. Admission is COL$20,000.
Address: Carrera 52 No. 73-75, Medellín, Colombia
Hours: Tues-Fri: 8.30am - 5.30pm; Sat-Sun: 10am - 6.30pm
Admission: COL$20,000 (Planetarium COL$12,000)
From $ 5
Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)
The Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida, is the archaeological site of an ancient indigenous city in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Thought to have been a commercial center for trade around 700 A.D., its population probably ranged between 1,400 and 3,000 inhabitants. Hidden in the jungle for over a thousand years, the Lost City was found in 1972 when treasure hunters followed a series of stone steps leading up to an abandoned city.
The Lost City is open to visitors, but the trip is not for the faint of heart. The nearly 30 mile trek takes visitors through farmland and jungle on an unforgettable six-day journey. Part of the adventure includes trekking over mountains filled with exotic plants and animals, climbing stone paths through dense jungle, bathing in waterfalls and sleeping in indigenous villages.
Upon arriving at Lost City, climb more than 1,000 stone steps to the top of the site for incredible views of the surrounding mountains and jungle. Take time to explore the more than 250 stone terraces that were carved out of the mountainside, each of which was a space for living and working. The different areas of the city were joined to the fields by a network of cobbled paths and stairs, and an irrigation system channels rainwater downhill to avoid damage and erosion.
Members of local tribes, including the Arhuacos, Koguis, and others, continue to maintain many of their ancestral beliefs and customs. They visited the site regularly before it was widely discovered, and gave it the name Teyuna. This trek takes you through some of their villages where life has remained unchanged for centuries.
The Lost City is open to visitors, but the trip is not for the faint of heart. The nearly 30 mile trek takes visitors through farmland and jungle on an unforgettable six-day journey. Part of the adventure includes trekking over mountains filled with exotic plants and animals, climbing stone paths through dense jungle, bathing in waterfalls and sleeping in indigenous villages.
Upon arriving at Lost City, climb more than 1,000 stone steps to the top of the site for incredible views of the surrounding mountains and jungle. Take time to explore the more than 250 stone terraces that were carved out of the mountainside, each of which was a space for living and working. The different areas of the city were joined to the fields by a network of cobbled paths and stairs, and an irrigation system channels rainwater downhill to avoid damage and erosion.
Members of local tribes, including the Arhuacos, Koguis, and others, continue to maintain many of their ancestral beliefs and customs. They visited the site regularly before it was widely discovered, and gave it the name Teyuna. This trek takes you through some of their villages where life has remained unchanged for centuries.
Practical Info
From Santa Marta tour operators offer three- to six-day guided treks to the Lost City which include transportation, lodging, food.
Address: Colombia
From $ 420
Museo de Antioquia
Begin in Botero Plaza, the statue studded central park that fronts Medellin’s most popular museum. The plump proportions of these enormous pieces by Colombia’s best beloved artist, Francisco Botero, are instantly recognizable, and attract snap happy parents posing their children all over the thickly proportioned works of art.
The entire top floor of the Museo de Antioquia is also dedicated to Botero, and includes some of his most controversial pieces, depicting bull fights in all their gore and glory, and the “Death of Pablo Escobar,” a well known painting that marks the end of an era that this city must someday come to terms with.
Other excellent exhibitions include a solid collection of modern art, by both international and Colombian masters. A gallery of Independence-era oils, surrounded by period pieces, includes one of the nation’s most famous paintings, Francisco Antonio Cano’s “Horizontes,” portraying settlers—new parents—setting of to conquer the Colombian frontier. A display of prints and advertisements from the same period are a testament to this nation’s reputation for business savvy.
The gift shop is outrageous, and a reasonably priced cafe overlooking Plaza Botero is one of the most pleasant spots in the city center for a coffee or adult beverage. The fancifully striped gothic masterpiece across the plaza, by the way, is the Palacio de Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe, completed in 1937 thanks to the quirky genius of Belgian architect Agustin Goovaerts.
The entire top floor of the Museo de Antioquia is also dedicated to Botero, and includes some of his most controversial pieces, depicting bull fights in all their gore and glory, and the “Death of Pablo Escobar,” a well known painting that marks the end of an era that this city must someday come to terms with.
Other excellent exhibitions include a solid collection of modern art, by both international and Colombian masters. A gallery of Independence-era oils, surrounded by period pieces, includes one of the nation’s most famous paintings, Francisco Antonio Cano’s “Horizontes,” portraying settlers—new parents—setting of to conquer the Colombian frontier. A display of prints and advertisements from the same period are a testament to this nation’s reputation for business savvy.
The gift shop is outrageous, and a reasonably priced cafe overlooking Plaza Botero is one of the most pleasant spots in the city center for a coffee or adult beverage. The fancifully striped gothic masterpiece across the plaza, by the way, is the Palacio de Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe, completed in 1937 thanks to the quirky genius of Belgian architect Agustin Goovaerts.
Address: Carrera 52 # 52-43, Medellin, Colombia
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm
From $ 6
Parque Arvi and Piedras Blancas
Medellin is certainly marvelous, but there may be times when you just want to hop into a gondola and float above the urban jungle and into the untamed mountains. Happily, this is one city where that’s not only possible, but also easy and inexpensive.
The Medellin metrorail system connects directly to the Arvi Cable Cars, which soar right from the train station above some of the city’s rougher neighborhoods, stopping briefly close to the ultra-modern Spanish Library. The final leg of the photogenic journey crests a misty ridge high above town, then delivers you quietly to a new brand-new conservation area.
This expansive park of beautiful wildflowers and lush premontane forest is crisscrossed with several kilometers of hiking trails. Hire guides or pick up a free map at the stand next to the cable cars. An adjacent private reserve, operated by architecturally striking Piedras Blancas Ecological Hotel (also accessible by car) is part of the project to return this region to the wild. On weekends, when the place gets packed with picnicking families, booths are filled with organic farmers and local craftspeople maintain selling their wares. Just don’t miss the last cable car back to the bottom!
The Medellin metrorail system connects directly to the Arvi Cable Cars, which soar right from the train station above some of the city’s rougher neighborhoods, stopping briefly close to the ultra-modern Spanish Library. The final leg of the photogenic journey crests a misty ridge high above town, then delivers you quietly to a new brand-new conservation area.
This expansive park of beautiful wildflowers and lush premontane forest is crisscrossed with several kilometers of hiking trails. Hire guides or pick up a free map at the stand next to the cable cars. An adjacent private reserve, operated by architecturally striking Piedras Blancas Ecological Hotel (also accessible by car) is part of the project to return this region to the wild. On weekends, when the place gets packed with picnicking families, booths are filled with organic farmers and local craftspeople maintain selling their wares. Just don’t miss the last cable car back to the bottom!
Address: Via a Piedras Blancas, Colombia
Hours: M-F 6:30am - 8:30pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm
Admission: Cable Car: 2,500 pesos (<$2 USD)
From $ 41