15 Adventurous Things To Do in Colombia

Colombia offers much more beyond the well-known cities of Medellín and Bogotá, with unique adventures now accessible in many rural areas thanks to increased security. Here’s a look at some of the most exciting, lesser-known adventures in Colombia.

1. See the Multicolored River of Caño Cristales

Caño Cristales is a river with a rare aquatic plant that gives the water vibrant red, pink, and green hues. Accessible via tour agencies, visitors can hike to waterfalls and spot wildlife. Visit between June and November for the full rainbow effect.

→ Book this three-day trek to Cano Cristales.

2. See Another Multicolored River in Guaviare

San José del Guaviare offers another smaller multicolored river, impressive rock formations, and ancient rock paintings from over 12,000 years ago. It’s also great for hiking, swimming with pink dolphins, and spotting wildlife.

RELATED: 2-Week Colombia Itinerary

3. Go on a Safari in Los Llanos

Los Llanos, a vast plain teeming with wildlife, offers safari opportunities to see capybaras, caimans, herons, and more. You can take a day trip or stay at a cattle ranch (hato) for a closer experience.

4. Climb the Prehistoric Hills of Mavecure

The Cerros de Mavecure in Guanía are ancient rock formations you can climb for stunning views. Enjoy the nearby river beaches and keep an eye out for pink dolphins.

→ Book this four-day trip to Mavecure.

5. Go Whale Watching in Colombia’s Pacific

From June to November, humpback whales migrate to Colombia’s Pacific coast for mating. Bahía Solano and Nuquí are top spots for whale watching, offering unspoiled beaches and natural beauty.

6. Stand at South America’s Most Northern Point

The La Guajira Peninsula offers a desert landscape with vast dunes and Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point in South America. Don’t miss the hammocks and stunning views over the desert.

7. Go Paragliding

For a thrilling experience, go paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon near San Gil. This area is perfect for adventure sports, including rafting and mountain hiking.

8. Go Hiking in The Paramo

Hike through Colombia’s unique paramo landscapes, filled with frailejones plants. La Chingaza National Park and Paramo Ocetá near Villa de Leyva offer accessible paramo hikes.

9. See the Tatacoa Desert

The Tatacoa Desert, a dried-up tropical forest, offers eerie red and gray landscapes. Located near Villavieja, it’s a unique sight to behold with labyrinthine pathways and distinct desert flora.

→ Book a private tour to Tatacoa.

10. Take a Cruise Up the Amazon River

Start your Amazon adventure in Leticia, where you can join day cruises or multi-day treks to explore deeper into the jungle and stay with indigenous communities across borders in Brazil and Peru.

→ Book a four-day Amazon River experience.

11. Medellin

Medellin is a vibrant city surrounded by lush mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking to nearby waterfalls and exploring the historically significant Comuna 13, best experienced with a guide for deeper insight.

12. Salento

Salento is a charming town known for its hikes, coffee farms, and the stunning Cocora Valley. A visit to Filandia nearby is also highly recommended for its vibrant culture and scenic views.

13. Los Nevados National Park

Los Nevados National Park offers unique hikes through paramo landscapes and stunning views of Colombia’s highlands. The three-day Paramillo del Quindio trek is a highlight for adventure lovers.

14. Jardin

Jardin is a colorful town perfect for relaxing or going on adventures like chasing waterfalls or visiting the La Cueva del Esplendor, a beautiful cave with a waterfall inside.

15. Jerico

Jerico, another charming town, offers paragliding, local markets, scenic hikes, and beautiful gardens. It’s an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.

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