The Enchanting Hidden Gems of Colombia! A Guide to 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots

Colombia is a country located in South America. Because it's situated along the equator, there is little seasonal variation throughout the year. However, there are significant temperature differences between lowland and highland areas, so where you choose to visit is important. Colombia is filled with many unknown wonders. If you muster the courage to visit, you'll be greeted by breathtaking landscapes beyond imagination! From jungles to beautiful beaches that touch both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and even snow-capped mountains and ancient ruins, Colombia has countless sights to offer. It's truly a treasure trove of stunning nature and cultural heritage!

1. Zipaquirá "Salt Cathedral"

Zipaquirá, a town about an hour and a half away from Colombia's capital Bogotá (by bus or car for a day trip), is home to the famous "Salt Cathedral." Originally a rock salt mine, it was converted into a place of worship by Catholic miners who sought solace in their dangerous work environment. Today, after salt mining operations have ceased, it has been renovated into a popular tourist attraction.

The interior is vast, divided into 14 stations that depict the "Stations of the Cross" (Via Dolorosa), representing Jesus Christ's journey to his crucifixion. Each area is illuminated with colorful LED lights, showcasing massive angel sculptures and hand-carved rock art. It's a sacred and fantastical sight—an essential stop for any traveler in Colombia.

2. Cartagena's World Heritage Site: "Port, Fortresses, and Group of Historical Monuments of Cartagena"

Cartagena, a port town facing the Caribbean Sea, is just a 1.5-hour flight from Bogotá. This town flourished as a trading port during Spain's colonial era and was often attacked by Caribbean pirates due to the treasures gathered there from South America. To defend against these attacks, walls and fortresses were built, which are still preserved today.

In 1984, the town was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name "Port, Fortresses, and Group of Historical Monuments of Cartagena." The many churches and the beautiful European-style streets within the walled city have earned Cartagena the reputation of being the most beautiful city in Colombia.

Additionally, its location on the Caribbean coast makes it a popular beach resort and honeymoon destination for visitors from around the world.

3. Guatapé

Guatapé is a small village about two hours by car from Medellín, one of Colombia's major cities. Despite being small enough to walk around in 30 minutes, every building in the village is vibrantly painted, creating an adorable townscape that feels like stepping into a toy world.

There are various theories behind why the town is so colorful—some say it was to boost tourism or improve safety. Regardless, Guatapé stands out as one of the most vividly painted towns in the world, with even churches, taxis, bicycles, and playgrounds adorned with intricate designs. Many of the walls feature 3D art, giving the town a fairytale-like charm, making it a magical tourist destination.

4. Las Lajas Sanctuary

Las Lajas Sanctuary, located near the town of Ipiales on the southern border of Colombia with Ecuador, is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the world. It is a hidden gem, often not mentioned in guidebooks. The church rises an impressive 100 meters from the bottom of a canyon and was built with donations from local believers.

The story of the church’s origin is tied to a miraculous event. It began when a deaf and mute girl named Rosa encountered a storm and sought refuge in the shadows of the deep rocks in a mountain valley. There, she pointed to a shadow on the rock and spoke her first words: "A woman is calling me." This shadow was believed to be the Virgin Mary, and the site became a place of pilgrimage.

Behind the altar inside the church, the very rock that the shadow appeared on is enshrined, and visitors can still see it. Along the walls of the path leading to the church, plaques with wishes and words of gratitude from pilgrims are embedded. The church is also illuminated at night, creating a fairytale-like scene as it stands out against the dark mountainside.

5. Caño Cristales River

Caño Cristales, located about 230 km south of Bogotá, flows through the Sierra de La Macarena National Natural Park and is often praised as the "most beautiful river in the world," the "River of Five Colors," or the "River where the Rainbow Melts."

For most of the year, it appears as an ordinary river. However, once a year, during the brief period between the dry and rainy seasons (from September to November), the water surface becomes rainbow-colored for just 2–3 weeks, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly scene. The vibrant hues, resembling paint flowing through the water, are caused by moss growing on the riverbed, responding to changes in water levels and rising water temperatures due to the sun’s heat during the dry season.

Nowadays, access to the river has been made easier with flight services, and the park is open to visitors.

◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Colombia

Though it is less familiar as a tourist destination compared to countries like Brazil or Peru, Colombia offers many opportunities to encounter vast, untouched natural landscapes and breathtaking, unexpected sights.

If you are considering traveling abroad, be sure to add Colombia to your list of possible destinations!

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The Enchanting Hidden Gems of Colombia! A Guide to 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots