There are so many hidden gems in Colombia that you will want to add to your Colombia itinerary. Many are concealed destinations that are off the beaten path that most backpackers tend to follow. Within this expansive country lie numerous small, and occasionally overlooked, biodiverse spots, with many locals unaware of their existence.

Why Colombia Is Worth Visiting

Colombia stands as an untamed paradise, where the only risk of visiting is the reluctance to depart! The country’s beauty unfolds across diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, vibrant traditions, warm-hearted people, captivating culture, and delectable cuisine. I encourage everyone to add Colombia and its concealed treasures to their travel aspirations. This verdant, wild haven on Earth is bound to astonish you in myriad ways.

I first came to Colombia in 2019 and stayed in the country for 2 months. I loved it all.

You have bustling cities like Bogota, Medellin, Cali and Cartagena.

When you need to escape the cities and enjoy a slower pace you have smaller pueblos such as Villa de Leyva and Barichara.

You have both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts for some beach time if you want to relax near the ocean.

And there is even the Tatacoa Desert for a truly unique experience.

Colombia has something for everyone.

And of course there are some wonderful hidden gems in Colombia that you will want to search out.

8 Hidden Gems in Colombia

Trust me when I say that these are just a few of the hidden gems in Colombia. There are so many places that a person would want to add in to their Colombia itinerary. You really could spend months in this country and not run out of things to see and do.

Guadalupe

 

Guadalupe is a small town situated in the Santander region of Colombia. It showcases the classic Santander aesthetic with white-painted buildings adorned with traditional red roofs. Approximately a five-hour drive from Bogota, the final stretch of the journey involves navigating unpaved, remote roads. Although Guadalupe boasts only a few hostels and restaurants, the true enchantment lies just beyond the town limits. There, you’ll find a river reminiscent of Caño Cristales, displaying a vibrant spectrum of reds, blues, and greens in its waters. Natural jacuzzis, waterfalls, and caves dot the riverbed, adding to the area’s allure.

 

Canon del Guejar

Referred to as the “Lost Kingdom of Giants,” Canon del Guejar is a hidden paradise away from the typical tourist routes. The journey to reach this destination is an adventure in its own right. One option involves flying to Villavicencio and then taking a direct bus to Mesetas. Alternatively, you can depart from Bogota and embark on a six-hour night bus journey.

Experiencing rafting in the river and canyon is an absolute must. Delight in the exhilarating rapids, be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, and don’t hesitate to take the plunge into the river! The sensation of being carried by the water is truly incredible. Additionally, you can make a stop along the way to visit Charco Azul.

Parque Nacional Natural Macuira

Parque Nacional Natural Macuira highlights the rich diversity of nature in Colombia, serving as a protected area that encompasses a portion of desert, lush forest, and a variety of bird species. Few places globally blend the sands of a desert with the density of a jungle!

The journey to reach Parque Nacional Natural Macuira is an integral part of the adventure. Anticipate a fascinating five-day trek through the entire Guajira Peninsula until you arrive at the northernmost town in all of Colombia, Nazareth. Additionally, the national park holds sacred significance for the Wayuu, Kogi, and Arhuaco indigenous peoples.

 

Nuqui

Whether you’re an enthusiast of water sports like surfing or diving, or if you lean towards the serene tranquility offered by nature during long coastal strolls, Nuqui can provide an utterly heavenly experience to suit any preference. Venture beyond the beaches into the jungle, and you’ll discover even more hidden gems in Colombia—waterfalls, rivers, hot springs, and a plethora of bird species await your exploration.

 

Charco Azul

While en route to Canon del Guejar, a must-visit is Charco Azul – an undiscovered paradise! Mesetas serves as an eco-destination with numerous natural wonders, including this waterfall. The cascading waters form a mesmerizing blue pool amidst the jungle, accompanied by a small beach. If exploring the canyon is on your agenda, Charco Azul is an indispensable addition to your itinerary.

 

 

Paramo de Sumapaz

Another of the hidden gems in Colombia, Paramo de Sumapaz stands as the world’s largest alpine tundra, exhibiting harsh yet captivating conditions. The tundra boasts an earthy, rugged beauty. A noteworthy detail about Paramo de Sumapaz is its distinction as the habitat for the continent’s sole native bear species: the spectacled bear or Andean bear. Just imagine actually seeing one of these bears in the wild!

 

 

Amacayacu National Park

Amacayacu, the inaugural protected area in the Colombian Amazon, shelters an astonishing variety of plants and hosts the largest number of primates on the planet.

Any journey through the Amazon is bound to be truly remarkable. Each morning you can plan to awaken to the captivating symphony of the jungle, as monkeys, birds, amphibians, and insects harmonize to create a serene and peaceful ambiance.

 

Prado

Prado is a charming town located southwest of Bogotà. It offers a unique setting away from the Andes mountain range, featuring a warm tropical climate throughout the year. The town’s hidden treasure is its expansive dam and large body of water just beyond its borders.

 

Surrounded by lush, plant-covered mountains, this extensive water system provides an ideal destination for a getaway from Bogota. Along the water’s edge, you’ll find a handful of hotels, many equipped with swimming pools and boats. Prado is an excellent spot for various water sports, including waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, swimming, and boating. Additionally, the town is home to a few freshwater waterfalls, tucked away in hidden corners around the lake, making it a fantastic place for hiking or walking.

 

Travel Tips For Visiting the Hidden Gems in Colombia

Given Colombia’s mountainous terrain, I always recommend air travel for long distances if there are airports that serve your destination. In country flights are budget friendly and you will save so much time as opposed to driving.

However utilizing buses is also sometimes unavoidable, as there are numerous destinations accessible solely by this mode of transportation or by renting a car. Just be prepared for fairly long bus rides. The upside is that you will get to see some amazing landscapes on your way to these amazing hidden gems in Colombia.

Have you been to any of these amazing locations? Or do you have other hidden gems in Colombia that you absolutely loved? Please let me know in the comments.