Colombia, located in South America, is known for its production of coffee, emeralds, rubies, and roses. Recently remembered for the end of its civil war that lasted over 50 years, Colombia is also home to many historical buildings and stunning natural landscapes, making it an incredibly attractive tourist destination. Among its many resources, nine sites are currently registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites (six cultural heritage sites, two natural heritage sites, and one mixed heritage site). The famous coffee plantations are also part of these World Heritage landscapes! This time, we'll introduce the charm of Colombia through its nine World Heritage Sites.
1. Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
Cartagena, often praised as the most beautiful port town in Colombia, was registered as the country's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 as the “Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena.”
Once called the “Pearl of the Indies” by the Spanish, this beautiful port town offers not only magnificent historical buildings but also glimpses into its Spanish colonial past through its fortresses and other structures. The entire town is breathtaking, and you can enjoy the World Cultural Heritage while strolling through its streets. The colorful buildings stand out beautifully against the bright blue sky. There are plenty of places to explore, including museums and churches. This is definitely a must-see spot when touring Colombia's World Heritage Sites!
Name: Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
Address: Cartagena, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/285/
2. Los Katios National Park
Los Katíos National Park was registered as Colombia's second World Heritage Site in 1994. Located in the northwestern part of Colombia, this national park covers over 70,000 hectares and features diverse landscapes such as hills, forests, and wetlands. You can encounter a variety of animals living in these different environments! Since Colombia has a wide range of ecosystems due to its various climates, this national park was recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site from the perspective of environmental conservation.
Due to illegal logging, Los Katíos National Park was listed as a World Heritage Site in Danger from 2009 to 2015. During treks in the park, you may come across not only insects and amphibians but also endangered species like sloths and jaguars.
Name: Los Katíos National Park
Address: Turbo, Antioquia, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/711
3. Historic Center of Santa Cruz de Mompox
The northern Colombian town of Santa Cruz de Mompox is one of the World Cultural Heritage Sites that preserves a strong Spanish influence. Built by the Spanish in 1540, the town expanded along the Magdalena and Cauca Rivers from the 16th to the 18th centuries. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 as a cultural property that tells the story of Colombia's colonial era.
The town features beautiful buildings with white walls and colorful churches in shades of yellow and orange, creating a laid-back atmosphere. The town's architectural unique style, which blends Spanish colonial and Indigenous American designs—known as the Colonial style—has been exceptionally well-preserved, which was key to its World Heritage registration. Although it is some distance from Colombia's capital, Bogotá, it is definitely a place worth visiting.
Name: Historic Center of Santa Cruz de Mompox
Address: Mompox, Mompos 132560, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: https://bit.ly/2zZit8A
4. National Archeological Park of Tierradentro
The Tierradentro National Archeological Park is a World Heritage Site where you can experience ancient ruins in Colombia. Located in the southwestern region of the country, this national park was registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1995 for preserving the cultural treasures from the pre-Columbian era.
Inside the underground burial tombs, you can find stone carvings and geometric paintings. These burial chambers vary greatly in size—from small ones about 2.5 meters wide to larger ones reaching 12 meters in diameter. Key archeological areas include Segovia Hill, Hill of the Little Elves, San Andres Hill, and Avocado Hill, all of which hold significant archeological value. Many excavated artifacts discovered in this area are also on display, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time to ancient Colombia.
Name: National Archeological Park of Tierradentro
Address: Inza, Cauca Department, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/743
5. San Agustin Archeological Park
Registered along with Tierradentro as a Colombian World Heritage Site, San Agustín Archeological Park protects a collection of large stone statues scattered throughout a wide area of the Magdalena River's upper basin, from elevations of 1,200 to 2,000 meters above sea level. These stone carvings, believed to date from the 5th to the 8th centuries, depicting human figures and animals such as eagles. These are considered gravestones of ancient Colombian civilizations, and some are as tall as 5 meters!
Because of its proximity to Tierradentro, it's a good idea to visit both sites together. For archeology enthusiasts, this World Cultural Heritage Site is truly irresistible!
Name: San Agustín Archeological Park
Address: San Agustín, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/744
6. Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
Located about 500 km off the western coast of Colombia, Malpelo Island was registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2006. Malpelo Island and its surrounding waters are one of the largest no-fishing zones in the Eastern Tropical Pacific region, where many endangered species live. The Colombian government began protecting this area in 1995, and today it attracts scientists from all over the world.
The Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary is considered one of the world's top diving spots because of the rare marine life found here, including sea turtles, deep-sea species, and various types of sharks. Divers from around the globe visit this World Heritage Site specifically for the diving experience. In addition to the rich biodiversity, underwater caves and fascinating underwater landscapes add to its charm. Although it takes about 36 hours to reach from mainland Colombia, it is a dream destination for divers around the world.
Name: Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
Address: Malpelo Island, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1216
7. Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia
Colombian coffee, renowned as some of the best in the world, has its coffee-growing landscapes registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2011. Among the many coffee farms in the country, six landscapes within the Paisa region were selected for this recognition.
If you're touring the area, consider visiting the “National Coffee Park” near Armenia. This vast park features spreading coffee plantations and is designed like an amusement park, with lifts and cable cars offering scenic views. After enjoying a stroll through these World Heritage landscapes, don't miss the opportunity to savor Colombia's famous coffee. It's a spot where you can enjoy the views, the flavors, and the entire experience.
Name: Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia
Address: Quindío, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1121
8. Inca Road System, Qhapaq Ñan
Registered as a World Heritage Site in 2014, the Inca Road System, Qhapaq Ñan, is one of Colombia's most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites. What makes this site special is that six South American countries—Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia—jointly applied for its registration. The extensive network stretches an incredible 40,000 kilometers and was developed during the time of the Inca civilization. Along this route, there are many famous sites, including Peru's Machu Picchu and Chavín de Huántar, attracting people to take part in multi-day trekking tours.
In ancient times, these roads were used by Inca rulers for travel and communication. However, there are theories suggesting that parts of the road system existed even before the Inca civilization. Since it is located at high altitudes with thin air, visitors should carefully assess their physical condition before embarking on this journey. This is one of Colombia's World Heritage Sites that offers both adventure and history.
Name: Inca Road System
Address: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1459
9. Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar”
In 2018, Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar” was registered as Colombia's first Mixed World Heritage Site. A mixed heritage site holds both cultural and natural value.
This is the country's largest protected area, featuring magnificent table-top mountains (tepuis) with complex formations that highlight the grandeur of nature. In addition, rock paintings depicting ancient indigenous life, such as hunting, dancing, and rituals, can be found on these mountains. Due to its artistic value, it has even been called the “Sistine Chapel of the Amazon.”
It's an incredibly rare World Heritage Site where you can admire ancient art in the heart of the Amazon jungle.
Name: Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar”
Address: Solano, Guaviare Department, Colombia
Official/Related Site URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1174
◎ Summary
Colombia, located in South America, is a fascinating country filled with World Heritage Sites showcasing its captivating nature, architectural culture, and ancient ruins. Traveling within Colombia may take time, but exploring its World Heritage Sites offers a glimpse into the many different aspects of the country! Even if you haven't been particularly interested in Colombia until now, we encourage you to visit if you ever get the chance!