Geography : 

The Andean region is the mountainous part of Colombia, where the majority of the population lives. It includes the big cities like Bogota, Medellin, Cali etc. It also includes the highest peaks and snow-covered volcanic peaks such as the Nevado del Huila and the Nevado del Tolima, culminating at 5616m of altitude. 

• The Caribbean region is located in the north of the country and includes the archipelago of San Andres and Providencia. There is an important contrast of landscapes with mountains but also a desert and swampy plains.
• The Pacific region is the coastal strip that extends from the Panamanian border to Ecuador. The banks of the Paficique River meet the coastal plains and continue to the peaks of the Andes.
• The Orinoco region is a rather special region located between the Andean region and the Amazon region. It is characterized by vast cultivable plains called “llanos”, which constitute a large part of Colombia’s economy and agriculture.
• The Amazon region is characterized by areas of dense forests and large rivers. Colombia is the first country in terms of bird diversity, with condors, raptors, toucans and parrots depending on the region studied. There are also more than 150,000 species of butterflies linked to the great diversity of flora. The mammals of the jungle like the sloth, the armadillo, the tapir or the jaguar are also regularly observed in the forest.

History :

• Pre-Columbian era: it is considered that the current Colombian territory dates back to the 20th and 21st millennium BC and that this location was a corridor of affluence for the populations of Mesoamerica, the Caribbean, the Andes, the Amazonian forest, etc. In the 16th century, Colombia was populated by the Muiscas culture, which lived mainly from corn and potato farming and also made ceramics. 
• Colonial era: following the expedition commanded by the Spaniard Alonso de Ojeda, the first Europeans arrived in Colombia in 1499 and gradually created the first colonies in coastal cities such as Santa Marta, Cartagena de Indias and then inland towards Bogota before spreading evangelization throughout the country.

Gastronomy :

Colombian cuisine is a mixture of cultures, diverse heritages and the result of exchanges between the indigenous and Spanish populations. Less known than the Peruvian or Brazilian gastronomy, the traditional Colombian dishes are not less delicious and full of flavors.  There are many quality products, such as coffee, cocoa, rum and many fruits from the Amazon region. Among the most popular dishes, we find : 

• The arepas are small yellow or white corn cakes that accompany all traditional meals. We also find the “tamales” which are elaborated with corn semolina, wrapped and cooked with water in a banana leaf. The fillings vary according to taste, between sweet and salty.
• Ajiaco is a dish from Bogota made with potatoes, corn and guasca, a local herb.
• Sancocho is a traditional dish from the north of the country and includes meat, plantains, local spices and cassava. The whole thing is cooked and mashed before being eaten.
• Cuchuco is a soup with corn, barley or wheat that is eaten mainly in the Andean region and the Altiplano.
• The bandeja paisa dish is a classic of Colombian gastronomy and is typical of the cuisine of Antioquia. It is served on a platter and is very hearty, with up to fourteen different ingredients, such as ground meat, pork, plantains, arepas, red beans and Cargamento, often accompanied by rice, tomato and avocado.

Bogota, the capital of Colombia, is a cosmopolitan, multicultural and diverse city that combines a traditional and modern world. During a city tour you can visit the many parks, the Candelaria district, the mythical square of El Chorro de Quevado, as well as the various museums, such as the Museo Nacional, the Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogotá and many others!

The city of Medellin is a city with a difficult history but which is transforming at an impressive rate. Voted city of innovation in 2013, you will discover the must-see places; Plaza Botero, Salon Malaga, Pueblito Paisa and the Comuna 13 neighborhood (a neighborhood in full revival). Depending on your wishes, you can continue your visit with different options: salsa class, coffee tour, visit to a horticultural center, visit to a fruit and vegetable market, or a neighborhood with graffiti.

Cano Cristales, “the stream of crystals” is a river in Colombia in the department of Meta, near the city of Guadalupe. It is also called the river of five colors : yellow, blue, green, red and black, it is a natural wonder. The river is 20 meters wide and offers visitors a palette of colors and a beautiful moment of discovery of Colombian nature, as well as a time to swim!

The Cocora Valley, is a very strong symbol of the coffee region, known for its forest of Quindio wax palms that can reach up to 60 meters high. Hiking is the best way to discover the Cocora Valley. Walking in this preserved nature between the wax palms of Quindio under the songs of the parrots Loro Jeri Amarillo, gives a very special emotion. 

The city of Guadalupe is known for its special river “las Gachas”. After settling in the hotel and having lunch, we will go and admire this river with its circular holes which invites you to take a swim.

Cartagena de India is a beautiful port city, especially known for the fortress San Felipe de Barajas as well as the imposing cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria. Enjoy discovering the colorful houses and neighborhoods of the city with its typical Spanish architecture.  Take time to enjoy a walk on the beach or up to the Santa Cruz convent for a spectacular view. 

Colombia is a country of diversity and the call of nature, do not hesitate to cross the Atlantic to discover the wonders of this country! 

To travel in Colombia, do not hesitate to consult our travel offers or ask us for a customized trip, we will be happy to talk to you in more detail about the destination and offer you a tour that meets your needs and expectations. See you soon in Colombia !