First Time Travel In Colombia

Tripoto
2nd Feb 2014

Colombia is one of my favorite countries. Although, it has faced some civil conflicts and has been a risky place to travel too for various years, it has slowly bounced back opening its beautiful landscapes, indigenous cultures, vibrant city life, adventure filled blue waters, astonishing Caribbean beaches, dense jungle, rugged mountains and coffee plantations that are a sight for sore eyes. Colombia has suddenly, like a Jack out of the Box, emerging with various pleasant surprises for tourists and travelers. My trip to Colombia was a realization of much more than just a gorgeous country. It was about the people, perceived to be hostile, but turning out to be extremely warm and friendly. It was about the country, perceived to be violent, but turning out to be strangely safe. It was about various myths revolving around Colombia. Colombia is not just about the drugs and the violence. Its equally about the well maintained infrastructure, culture and history. Geographically speaking, I found Colombia like visiting several different countries in one. And not only is the geography varied, the scenery is also quite spectacular.

When it comes to safety in Colombia certain precautions are necessary. I always felt safe during my travels through Colombia. I’ve never seen as many soldiers as I’ve seen in Colombia. Add to all this beautiful beaches and the most impressive colonial city I’ve ever visited and there are many reasons to love Colombia. I have often heard traveler's who have been to Colombia lament that if only the drug mafia had not entered this country, it could have easily been a traveler's paradise, competing easily with any other European destination. But, in recent years it has become easier for tourists to come here and to navigate around this country. Slowly Colombia is becoming a loved tourist destination in South America.

This itinerary has a few of my favorite places in Colombia. Even if you can't fit all of the places in one trip, choose whatever you think will give give you the best experience of Colombia. 

Cartegena is easily the first