Where to go on vacation in Colombia: 3 places you should not miss

Whether you are looking to visit a bustling, action-packed city or relax on the beach, taking a vacation to Colombia can be an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. If you are planning an upcoming trip to this South American country, or are just dreaming of visiting it, here are some places that should be on your itinerary.

Do not miss the Beaches of Cartagena

Cartagena, Colombia is located on the north coast and here visitors can experience the Caribbean Sea. Some of the most popular beaches are just a few meters from the Walled City, while others require a bus or even a boat ride to access. While many people come here to visit the beaches, that is not the only thing to do in Cartagena. History buffs enjoy the Palace of the Inquisition, a museum dedicated to the Spanish Inquisition and the role that the people of Cartagena played. However, the museum is not for the faint of heart: you will find ancient torture devices here. Be careful planning your trip because the museum is not open on Mondays. The cost is $ 11,000 Colombian pesos for adults and $ 8,000 for children (approximately $ 6 and $ 4.50 accordingly).

Visit Bogotá, the largest city in Colombia

Bogotá is the capital city of Colombia and is made up of an extensive network of districts. Although the city received negative press in the 1980s and 1990s for being unsafe for tourists, the truth is that the city is safe and tourism has picked up in the early 2000s. If you are looking to experience some of the best city ​​foods, visit Zone G, Zone T and La Macarena. Here you will find local cuisine as well as restaurants offering international food. The locals are extremely helpful, so don’t be afraid to ask for some local favorites that you might not otherwise be able to find.

Besides food, Bogotá has other things to do for travelers. Sports, especially soccer, are popular here and there are three professional teams that play within the city. It is possible to go to the stadium and buy a ticket just before the game, but keep in mind that seating options could be limited.

Explore the national parks

If you are looking to experience the natural side of the country, consider visiting one of its 58 national parks. If you are visiting one of the national parks, it is a good idea to hire a guide or go with a group. While safe for tourists, these areas are protected against encroaching development. Combine that with the sheer size of some of the parks and you could get lost inside the park very easily.

Colombia is one of the hidden treasures of South America. If you are interested in experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, consider a trip to Colombia. With so many different things to do and places to see, you can be sure to take a vacation like no other.