Such is the mind-boggling diversity of South America, you’ll never find a country that encapsulates everything it has to offer – but Colombia will give you a run for your money. Landscapes range from snow-capped mountains and lush jungle to white-sand beaches, Caribbean islands and tropical grasslands. So if you’re looking for adventure, you’ll be anything but disappointed.
A reliable road network makes it relatively easy to travel when you’re ready for a change of scenery. Most itineraries begin in Bogatá – the sleepless capital where bright murals provide a backdrop to bustling bars and cafés playing cumbia, salsa and champeta virtually non-stop.
From here, get into the wilderness. You could go hiking or horse riding in the Coffee Triangle, or rock climbing and paragliding in the rugged Santander region, just east of Medellín. Aside from a turbulent history, the so-called City of Eternal Spring is known for having a progressive culture, international art scene and excellent museums.
Join Culture Trip on a small-group adventure to discover both cities – and everything in between – before committing yourself to another week of fun in the sun, only this time on the pristine beach-lined Caribbean coast. Canoe through mangrove forests in La Boquilla, go diving in the idyllic Rosario Islands, or wander the streets of culture-soaked Cartagena and San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas.