Colombia, a country in the northwestern part of South America, is one of the most diverse countries in the world. It is known for its scenic Andes, lush rainforests, exotic coastlines and dynamic cities. With more than 50 million people and an incredible cultural heritage, Colombia offers an unforgettable experience for any traveller. The country is also known for its passionate music, colourful carnival and friendly locals. I paid 680 euros for a return ticket from Ljubljana to Bogotá with Turkish Airlines, with a transfer in Istanbul, and I must say that the journey there was quite long and tiring.
My journey through Colombia started in the capital, Bogotá. It is a city of contrasts, where history, culture and modern architecture intertwine. The first thing that impressed me was the climb up Monserrate Hill, which offers a breathtaking view of the whole city, nestled in the valley below the Andes. I also visited the historic centre known as La Candelaria, with its cobbled streets, colourful colonial houses and important cultural monuments such as the Museo del Oro, which has a rich collection of pre-Columbian gold artefacts.
In Bogotá, there is culture at every turn, and it's a city that never sleeps. I also walked along Carrera Séptima, a street full of street artists, musicians and food stalls, where I had my first taste of arepas and empanadas, two of Colombia's most popular dishes.
After a few days of exploring Bogotá, I headed south, to the city of Neiva. Neiva, the capital of Huila, is not as well-known among tourists, but it is the perfect base for exploring one of the unique landscapes in Colombia - the Tatacoa Desert.
Located just a few hours' drive from Neiva, Tatacoa is a desert that resembles the surface of the moon more than a typical dry landscape. It's an arid area with beautiful red and grey sandstones. I walked among the tall rocks and admired the unique shapes the wind has created over the centuries. The feeling of standing in this desert was indescribable—like finding myself in a completely different world. One of the most memorable experiences was stargazing. The Tatacoa Desert is one of the best places in Colombia for astrophotography and observing the night sky.
My next stop was the town of Popayán, which I reached by crossing the beautiful Andean mountains. Popayán is called the 'white pearl of Colombia' because of its charming white colonial buildings.
The city is a cultural and intellectual hub of the country, known for its universities and strong religious heritage. During my visit, I had the opportunity to explore the cathedral and the many ancient churches and monasteries in the city. Tradition is very important in Popayán. This can be seen in their famous Easter procession, one of the most well-known in Latin America.
Besides the architecture and history, I was fascinated by the local cuisine in Popayán, especially the traditional sancocho and chontaduro soup, that I tasted in the town's market.
The last stop on my trip was Cali, a city that is famous as the world capital of salsa. The lively city, full of energy, dance rhythms, and warm people, captivated me right away. Cali has a strong Afro-Colombian cultural heritage, which is reflected in the music, dance and festivals that are constantly present in the city's everyday life.
In Cali, I had the opportunity to visit some of the best salsa clubs, where I joined local dancers and got a real feel for the vibe of the city. But the city is not just famous for salsa. I also explored cultural attractions like Gato del Río Park, where I saw art sculptures and walked along the Cali River.
Travelling in Colombia was unforgettable, revealing a country full of incredible beauty, rich culture, and friendly people. Each city I visited has its own unique story, its own energy and its own soul, and I was completely taken by it. Colombia is truly a land of contrasts that offers something for everyone. Learn more about my trip to northern Colombia in the next issue.
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