Now who didn’t love the Disney movie El Dorado?! Why not visit the real life place! Best known for its emeralds, vibrantly tropical landscapes and of course the myth of El Dorado itself. If that’s not enough to entice you to visit, then take a look at our list below: BackHackers’ best places in Colombia…
Guatapé
The resort town of Guatapé can be found in northwest Colombia, east of Medellín. Lined with houses decorated with colorful bas-reliefs, Guatapé sits on the stunning, man-made Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir. Head here for some unforgettable water-sports. And don’t miss Piedra del Peñol – an enormous granite rock which has hundreds of steps to the top, with absolutely breathtaking views (see below for more information).
El Penol
The Rock of Guatape, or La Piedra/El Peñol. Climb the 740 steps to the top of this magnificent rock, with an elevation of 2,135 m; for views that span to the 500 km shore-perimeter dam.
Medellín
Medellín is also known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its agreeable weather. Head here for the annual Flower Festival, or check out the modern metrocables which link the city to the surrounding barrios, offering views of the Aburrá Valley below. Medellín is also a hot spot for famous Colombian artistry and culture.
Huila
Huila is an area located in southern Colombia. It’s surrounded by the Andes mountains and home to amazing the Nevado del Huila volcano, with the Magdalena River running through its centre. It also contains the San Agustín Archaeological Park which houses hundreds of pre-Columbian monuments and sculptures. Head to the village of Villavieja (surrounded by the Tatacoa Desert), for some incredible star gazing at the Observatorio Astronómico.
Villa De Leyva
The town of Villa de Leyva is located northeast of Bogotá. Head to its cobbled streets for some rich history and culture, including the House of the First Congress of the United Provinces, where new laws were drafted after independence in 1812. Or climb the surrounding hillsides for some epic views of the town.
Taganga
The fishing village of Taganga is located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Having grown in recent years, there is now a large collection of shops, restaurants and hotels, although it still manages to provide paradisaical views from its small beach. Head here for some great scuba diving opportunities (and swimming in general).
Chingaza
Chingaza National Natural Park can be found in the Eastern Ranges of the Colombian Andes, northeast of Bogotá. It is said that the magical mountains carry secrets and thoughts from the indigenous people who inhabited the territory. Head here for some amazing natural beauties in terms of eco systems, nestled amongst these enchanting mountains.
Playa Arrecifes
Find this beautiful beach within Tayrona National Park. Beneath the surface of the waters lie a range of reefs and rock formations – although these are not the be explored due to the strength of the waves. Head here for scenic walks through forests, beautiful scenery and the remarkable forces of nature. There is even a camping area, set up with hammocks and cabins for you to fully immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.
Cartagena
The port city of Cartagena can be found on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Head to Old Town (founded in the 16th century) to walk among the cobbled streets and brightly coloured buildings. Cartagena is also home to many idyllic tropical beaches, boasting white sands and palm trees. Get a boat to Isla de Barú or Islas del Rosario which are famous for their stunning coral reefs.