The best way to get a better idea of what Colombia looks like is to visit the country in person. But, given the recent peace talks and an ongoing conflict with FARC, many foreign visitors are hesitant about going there. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive Colombia travel guide for tourists which will help travelers take advantage of some of the most unique and characteristic aspects their country has to offer.
Map of Colombia
If you’re looking for a map of Colombia, be sure to check out our blog section! Below you’ll find a detailed map of Colombia, including all the major tourist destinations as well as important geographical features. If you’re planning a trip to Colombia and don’t know where to start, be sure to check out our blog for some great advice and tips!
Colombia Travel Guide For Tourists-Map of Colombia Photo Gallery
The Colombian Culture
The Colombian culture is rich and varied, with a history that spans over three centuries. From the colonial cities of Bogotá and Cartagena to the mountainous Andes, there is much to see and enjoy in Colombia. Here are some of the most popular destinations in the country:
Bogotá: Bogotá is the capital and largest city of Colombia. It’s a lively, cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural heritage. Highlights of Bogotá include the National Palace, which was built in the 18th century and contains priceless artworks; La Candelaria Church, home to an impressive altar made of gold and jewels; and the Plaza de Bolívar, which features several important monuments, among them El Libertador statue.
Cartagena: Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most romantic cities. Its historic center is filled with charming old buildings and narrow streets. The highlights of Cartagena include its gorgeous colonial architecture, such as the Alcázar fortress; beaches such as Playa Blanca and Playa Girón; and interesting museums, such as the Museo del Oro (Museum of Gold).
Mexican and U.S. Influence in Colombia
The development of Colombia has been greatly influenced by its neighbors to the north and south. Firstly, Mexico has been a strong economic and political neighbor for over 500 years, and the Colombian culture is heavily influenced by Mexican traditions and culture. Secondly, the United States has played an important role in Colombia’s history, as it has been a major provider of financial and military assistance to the country throughout its history. This has led to a close relationship between the two countries, with Colombia being one of only four Latin American countries to have full diplomatic relations with both the United States and Cuba.
Despite this close relationship, there are many differences between Colombia and the United States. For example, while the United States is predominantly Christian, Colombia is predominantly Catholic. Additionally, while the United States is dominated by white Anglo-Saxon Protestants, Colombia is home to a range of different ethnic groups, including mestizos, Afro-Colombians, indigenous people, and Asian Colombians. Despite these differences, however, both countries share a number of common values: democracy, human rights, opportunity, and freedom.
Modern Colombia
Colombia is a modern and developing country, with a rich cultural heritage. The history of Colombia spans over two millennia and has been shaped by the events of multiple wars. The country is now home to a large and thriving population, which has lead to the development of some of the most successful economies in Latin America. Tourists are well rewarded for venturing to Colombia, as its rich cultural history, natural scenery, and lively nightlife make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.
The Colombian culture is deeply rooted in its indigenous origins. Colombian music and dance reflect this fusion, incorporating elements from various cultures such as Andalusian flamenco, Cuban rumba, Brazilian samba, and Mexican ranchera. Colombia’s long history has also left a strong mark on the architecture and infrastructure of the country. Colonial architecture can be found in all major Colombian cities, while impressive Modernist architecture can be found in Bogotá and Cartagena.
Colombia is one of South America’s most diverse countries with a wide range of landscapes and habitats. This diversity is reflected in the flora and fauna found throughout the country. Some of Colombia’s most famous attractions include Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; San Agustín Archaeological Park, one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Americas; the “Amalfi Coast” (Cartagena); and Pablo Escobar’s hometown of Medellín. History Colombia became independent from Spain in 1819, following a war that started in 1810.
How to Get Around in Colombia?
Colombia is a country with a lot of mountains and plains, so knowing how to get around can be a challenge. The best way to get around is by taxi. Taxis are cheap and plentiful in most major cities. There are also bus lines that run throughout the country. And finally, there are motorcycle taxis that can be very convenient when travelling in small towns or rural areas.
When travelling outside of major cities, it is important to always have some form of transportation pre-arranged in advance. This is especially true during peak season (December-February), when traffic can be very congested and travel times can be long. If you are travelling on your own, it is advisable to download the Transit App for iOS or Android to find out real-time updates about delays and recommended routes.
If all else fails, Colombians are generally very friendly and will be happy to help you find your way around. Just don’t hesitate to ask!
Weather in Colombia
Weather in Colombia is hot and humid most of the time. The average temperature in Colombia is 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit). The temperature ranges from 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit) in the mountains to 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit) on the coast.
The humidity reaches 80 percent most of the time.
The season for rain in Colombia is from October to April.
Tips for Visiting Colombia
1. When planning your trip to Colombia, be sure to take into account the time of year you’re visiting. The weather can change dramatically from day to day and month to month, so be prepared for anything!
2. When visiting smaller towns and villages, always ask permission before taking photographs or filming without consent. This is a common practice in rural areas and it’s important to respect local traditions and customs.
3. In order to enjoy the best possible experience while traveling in Colombia, be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and hats. And if you’re going hiking or biking, make sure you have appropriate gear such as water bottles, snacks, and first-aid supplies.
4. Make sure you know the currency of Colombia before traveling- it’s the Colombian Peso (COP). Most banks have ATMs that dispense both COP and U.S. Dollars, so it’s easy to get the money you need while on your travels.
5. It’s also worth noting that all hotels in Colombia are required by law to offer travelers free breakfast and other amenities such as Wi-Fi access.
6. Colombia has a bit of a violent past. In the late 1960’s, many guerilla groups such as the FARC and ELN were active in the jungles of Colombia, operating illegally in the country’s remote regions. In fact, when you consider all of this together, it’s understandable why traveling to Colombia may be more challenging than most other countries in South America. But if you can endure these challenges just to become a foreign traveler, then go for it!
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