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Colombia is a vibrant country that boasts coastlines along two oceans, majestic mountain ranges, and some of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests. While many travelers flock to the popular beaches of Cartagena or take traditional tours of its historic cities, there are numerous hidden gems waiting to be explored. These lesser-known destinations offer unique experiences and breathtaking views that are sure to captivate any adventurer’s heart.
Experience the charm of Capurgana
Nestled in the Gulf of Uraba, Capurgana is a picturesque village located in the Caribbean department of Choco. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, this destination is perfect for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Beyond the water activities, Capurgana serves as a gateway to the quaint fishermen’s village of Sapzurro, surrounded by lush natural reserves rich with rivers and streams. A hike to La Miel, Panama, offers a delightful opportunity for tax-free shopping.
Getting to Capurgana is an adventure in itself. You can opt for a short flight from Medellin’s Olaya Herrera Airport to Narcisa Navas Airport in Capurgana, which takes about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you could travel to Acandí or Necocli and take a scenic boat ride to your destination. Once there, a travel plan starting at approximately 407 USD ($1,600,000 Colombian pesos) per person covers round-trip flights from Medellin, accommodation, meals, guided excursions led by local hosts, and travel insurance.
Explore the iconic Mavecure hills
The Mavecure hills, immortalized in Ciro Guerra’s Oscar-nominated film “Embrace of the Serpent,” are an awe-inspiring sight located in the Guainia department. These three colossal rock formations, composed of ancient grayish stone mounds known as tepuyes, are among the planet’s oldest geological formations, offering a unique perspective of Colombia’s natural beauty.
Your journey to Mavecure involves a trek to the base of Cerro Diablo, followed by an ascent to the top of Mavecure, where you can take in the breathtaking views from the natural viewpoint overlooking Pajaro and Mono, the other two hills. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the San Joaquin creek, explore the enchanting Inirida River Star, and respectfully visit nearby indigenous reserves. A four-day adventure here starts at around 471 USD ($1,852,000) per person, which includes round-trip flights from Bogota, internal transfers, shared accommodation, meals, and guided activities around the Mavecure hills.
Discover the beauty of Cocuy National Natural Park
Cocuy National Natural Park is a breathtaking destination featuring snow-covered peaks, pristine lagoons, and landscapes that seem straight out of a postcard. Spanning across the departments of Boyaca, Arauca, and Casanare, this park is home to at least 25 glacial peaks, making it the largest glacial mass in Colombia, stretching approximately 25 kilometers in length.
For those eager to explore, the park offers only three authorized trails: Laguna Grande de la Sierra, Lagunillas, and Ritacuba. These paths allow visitors to marvel at the magnificent edges of the glaciers while adhering to conservation guidelines to protect this stunning environment. A three-day trekking plan here is priced at around 219 USD ($860,000) per person, which includes round-trip transportation from Bogota, accommodation, meals, a Mahoma mountain acclimatization hike, park entry fees, travel insurance, and certified mountain guides.
Adventure through the stunning Nevado Santa Isabel
Nevado Santa Isabel stands tall among the peaks of the Central Range, stretching across Tolima, Caldas, and Risaralda, with its highest point reaching 4,965 meters above sea level. This majestic location offers two options for visitors: a one-day visit to the glacier’s edge or a challenging two-day ascent to the summit, both promising spectacular views of the surrounding glaciers.
Choose your adventure wisely! If you’re up for a one-day excursion, you can visit the beautiful Laguna Verde Encantada. Alternatively, the two-day expedition is designed for those with good physical fitness and a strong determination to reach the summit. This option includes an acclimatization hike to Laguna Verde Encantada and an early morning attempt to summit at 2 AM. Prices for these adventures range from 58 USD ($230,000) for a one-day trip to 178 USD ($700,000) for the complete two-day experience, covering meals, shared accommodation, mountain guides, round-trip 4×4 transportation from Manizales, and all necessary equipment for your journey.
Embark on a cross-departmental hiking adventure
One of the most exhilarating experiences in Colombia is a cross-departmental hiking adventure that takes you over 4,500 meters high, through the breathtaking landscapes of Villamaria, the Otun Lagoon, and the stunning Cocora Valley. This journey offers a unique opportunity to interact with local farmers and immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture.
During three days of extensive hiking, participants traverse through the departments of Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío, creating unforgettable memories along the way. The tour package, starting at 216 USD ($850,000) per person, includes 4×4 transportation from Manizales, three meals a day, medical assistance insurance, a mountain guide, entry to Los Nevados National Park, a Jeep transfer from Valle del Cocora to Salento, a high-altitude mountain kit, a water filter, and even a souvenir to take home. All the essentials for an adventure of a lifetime!