Things to do in Colombia

Colombia’s colonial cities are beautifully preserved and almost always set against a stunning Andean backdrop. Popayán, the ‘white city’, was founded in 1537, making it one of Colombia’s oldest. It was phenomenally rich as a result of the gold that was traded through it, and this wealth is still visible today in its magnificent city center packed with whitewashed buildings and imposing cathedrals. Barichara is said to be Colombia’s prettiest town. Founded in 1705, it has been declared a national monument and its whitewashed buildings gleam as brightly today as they did three centuries ago. Many people only spend a day here, so to make the most of the town without the crowds, book yourself in for a night or two.

Villa de Leyva’s cobblestone streets lead to the largest plaza in the country. There are plenty of funky coffee shops, cafes and craft shops, and you can hire a bike to explore the lush countryside. The gem in the colonial crown is Cartagena, whose stunning, rainbow-coloured buildings have been lovingly restored, with double height windows draped in butterfly-filled bougainvillea. In the mind bending Caribbean heat, hours slip into days, as you lose yourself amid the ancient streets immortalised in García Márquez’s Love in the Time of Cholera.

Colombia largely lacks the charismatic indigenous communities of nearby Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia, but don’t dismiss its culture so easily. The burgeoning middle class means that many lodges and guesthouses are Colombian owned, you’ll be taken on treks and city tours with English speaking local guides, and will be able to mingle with urbanites in local bars – this is a far more immersive encounter than any kitsch village tour. Once dreary Bogotá and Medellín are now blossoming with hip bars and organic cafes, and the colonial towns of Villa de Leyva and Barichara are popular weekend escapes for Colombians from nearby cities, meaning you’re more likely to encounter domestic rather than foreign tourists here. Take the time to learn a bit of Spanish before visiting, and doors will open all over the place.

Alternatively, learn Colombia’s other national language: dance. Cali is Colombia’s salsa capital, and if you have even a single night here, you’d better spend it in a salsa club. You can arrange to take a class or two first – and if you’re feeling shy, you could do worse than down a cheeky shot of aguardiente.