Colombia

Colombia, an enchanting South American country, offers a little of everything. It is a gateway to the Caribbean in the northwest, Ecuador and Peru to the east. The Panama Canal to the northwest, Venezuela to the east and Brazil to the south-west.

However, before you cross any borders, use Colombia as a stepping-stone, and appreciate the brilliant assets this country has on offer. The capital, Bogota, is booming. At 2,650 metres above sea level, there are new restaurants, bars, boutique hotels and craft breweries springing up across the city. Bogota has the best nightlife in Columbia, with a great club scene, and live music venues. Tour guides offer edgy sightseeing excursions on bike and foot, which cover everything from architecture to food, beverages to politics and the notorious Pablo Escobar.

A nature lovers paradise, Colombia packs into its landmass 51 National Parks and numerous protected areas and wetlands.

Cartagena, on the Caribbean coast, is a gorgeous colonial city once built on gold and slavery. Today it is renowned for its splendid sunsets, where horse-drawn carts meander through streets, colourful blooms descend over balconies, and people dance in the pretty plazas.

In the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the far north is Ciudad Perdida and Teyuna an archaeological site called the "lost city". Claimed to be more than 650 years older than Peru's Machu Picchu it is just one of the many varied places to visit in this astounding country.

Tayrona National Park expands from the Caribbean’s blue seas, sandy beaches and swaying palms to mountains of rugged beauty. The Andean region for hikers and nature lovers is spectacular. Divers can head to the Colombian islands of Providencia and Santa Catalina. Both provide access to the third-largest coral reef system on Earth, with bountiful marine life and sunken pirate ships. The Rosario Islands are only a short boat ride from Cartagena.

Barranquilla Carnival is one of the biggest in the world and gives Rio a run for its money. The streets are filled with parties and parades where locals welcome visitors.

Colombia is a passionate country for lovers of art, adventure, history and those that simply like to relax with the locals and enjoy the food, dance, music and stunning scenery.

Best time to visit Colombia

Colombia, located in northern South America and near the equator, is home to a range of tropical climate conditions throughout the year.

What you experience on the beach along the Caribbean coastline could be a completely different climate to those in the more mountainous areas on a given day. December to March is peak tourist time as it rains less, especially in the Andean regions. However, prices usually also increase during this time. Pack for all weather conditions and plan around the activities – this is a year-round destination.