Colombia’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for adventure. In my previous articles I spoke about Art & Culture in big cities. Now, looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, I want to take you into nature and off the beaten path.
Colombia offers a diverse and enriching experience for the solo female traveller. From the convenience of digital nomad hubs and little communities nestled in nature, to warm hospitality and local culture and cuisine.
Relaxed Caribbean Vibe
In Medellín I met up with a fellow traveler-friend and after the buzz of spending time in big cities I needed some nature. My friend is also an outdoorsy type so we wanted to go somewhere we can hike a bit (even in rainy season). We flew to Santa Marta and then took a bus to Minca – a hippie mountain village.
Santa Marta is located on the northern coast along the Caribbean Sea. It’s surrounded by some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches, like Playa Blanca and Taganga. With their crystal-clear waters, the beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing. The city itself has a lively atmosphere with colourful markets, local music, and a vibrant culinary scene where you can enjoy fresh seafood and regional specialties. It’s also one of the oldest cities in Colombia, dating back to colonial times. It’s known for Simón Bolívar – the hero of South America’s independence, who spent his last days here. I liked the colonial vibe. The plazas and colourful houses. There is a nice beachside scroll, a harbour and a range of good restaurants.
Two days was enough time to get a good feeling of the city. Santa Marta is rather a gateway to go exploring the surroundings: The culture of indigenous peoples in Sierra Nevada, the Tayrona National Park (see below) and the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) – an ancient archaeological site.
Diverse Ecosystems and Hippie Vibes
The area around Santa Marta is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, from beaches to mountains to rainforest, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and eco-tourism activities are popular.
Minca
We opted for Minca – a hippie village in the mountains that was recommended by friends. Truly tiny. It has basically one street – a dirt road that becomes very muddy during the rainy season – nevertheless it has many cute bars and restaurants on it. It’s a laid back paradise for backpackers and digital nomads, who like to enjoy hikes to the nearby waterfalls (Pozo Azul and Marinka Falls.) for a swim after their work is done. We stayed in a cute finca, a bit off the road (you need a torch after dark) and enjoyed the emptiness of the low season. The little river just outside the house and the hammocks on the porch added to the chilled ambience!
Palomino
And because we loved the hippie vibes, we went for more of it, exchanging the mountains for the ocean: Palomino was the next destination. A bit bigger than Minca, but very similar: A picturesque coastal town with one main street, a few side alleys and the beach – the epicentre.
Palominohas a relaxed, bohemian vibe. It attracts a mix of backpackers, surfers, and eco-tourists who come to enjoy the simple pleasures of beach life, yoga retreats, and local cuisine. The atmosphere here is super laid-back and authentic Caribbean. The beach is stunning, sandy, and lined with palm trees. Great for beach days, sunset walks and a cocktail (with happy hour deals) in stylish beach bars. There is a range of really good restaurants too. I loved the french cuisine at Casa Cocotte and their daily changing fresh menu. We stayed in a lovely finca: a small hotel with a garden, hammocks and a quiet family-ambience – again, you need a torch when going back to the hotel after dark. The main street and the beach area are illuminated by the bars and restaurants but on the side roads you will not find any street lamps. You might find a horse standing in the middle of the road, frogs are jumping under your feet.. Mud, animals, mosquitoes – ah Palomino! I really liked your energy! : )
…and the Tubing
If you are bored of chilling on the beach, you can engage with the local indigenous culture, learning about traditional crafts, spiritual practices, and sustainable living. The town offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. One of the popular (not very cultural though) activities in Palomino is tubing down the Palomino River. We took a scenic hike up the Sierra Nevada mountains and then floated down the river on an inner tube, enjoying the lush jungle scenery before reaching the Caribbean Sea. Of course you have an experienced guide with you, so there is no danger. It was great fun!
In Palomino I parted ways with my travel buddy and after enjoying some yoga sessions and quality me-time I booked a driver to go visit La Guajira.
Remote and Untouched – La Guajira
Well…That was an adventure indeed..La Guajira is one of the remote and less touristy regions of Colombia, offering a chance to experience untouched nature and authentic culture away from the more crowded tourist spots. For such an adventure you need a reliable tour guide. I unfortunately didn’t have one.
I shared the car with Francesca – an Italian lady that I met in Palomino – and with a nice local couple from Pereira. Thank God, I had a nice crowd. Without going into much details I just say that our driver was a ‘loco’. And for sure, you can’t call him a tour guide (or even a good driver for that matters). He didn’t appreciate his job and such terms as ‘client care’, ‘service’ and ‘safety’ were foreign to him. Shame because he made the tour only half as fun as it could have been. Nevertheless, we had a great group dynamic with my fellow travelers and focusing on that I still had fun (and after some time has pased, it was actually fun to talk about it. The tour remained memorable)!
Adventure and Exploration
Guajira is the remote, western part of Colombia. Close to Venezuela, it’s a unique region of striking contrasts, from its vast deserts and rugged coastline to rich indigenous culture and biodiversity. The rugged terrain is perfect for adventurous travelers. Exploring the area often involves off-road vehicles, making the journey itself part of the adventure.
Desert, Flamingos and Wildlife
The geography of La Guajira is diverse, from arid deserts and lush oases to mangroves and salt flats. This makes it a fascinating destination for eco-tourism and photography. Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary is a protected area where you can see large flocks of pink flamingos and other bird species in their natural habitat. We didn’t visit the sanctuary but we were still able to spot the pink beauties while driving past the mangroves.
Guajira is home to the only desert in Colombia – La Guajira Desert, which offers stunning, otherworldly landscapes. The sand dunes of Punta Gallinas – the northernmost point of South America – are a highlight, with the golden sands meeting turquoise waters. Unfortunately because of a Tsunami warning we didn’t reach Punta Gallinas. Our two nights tour became a one night only. We didn’t go further than Cabo de la Vela.
Local Experience & the Wayuu Culture
To reach Cabo we drove through the desert, which was an adventure. A shadow casting the enjoyment of the stunning landscapes was the fact that every now and then the indigenous children blocked the road asking for water and cookies. Unfortunately we were not prepared for that. Our ‘super guide’ didn’t explain anything, nor did he make sure that we feel safe in such a situation. I have to admit, the feeling of being trapped between one road blockage and another made me feel very uncomfortable. Especially when it was not a child but an adult asking for a ‘payment’ to unblock the road – in this case it was not water but money.
Finally we reached Cabo de la Vela. We checked in and went to explore the surroundings. This small, remote coastal town is known for its dramatic cliffs (good conditions for kitesurfing). Here you can visit the nearby Pilón de Azúcar hill which offers panoramic views of the coastline. The Playa Arcoiris and Ojo de Agua Beach. After enjoying the sunset at Faro de Cabo de la Vela – a scenic Lighthouse – we went back to our ‘rancheria’.
Our home for that night – Rancheria Utta – was a traditional Wayuu hotel-village. The local fish they served us was really good. The powercut added to the authenticity of the adventure for a deep cultural immersion. I slept in a wooden cabin but you can also opt for hammocks under the stars (there is no light pollution so the sky is really remarkable!). There was no internet access even after the power was back on. Ohmmm
Las Salinas & Crafts
La Guajira is the heartland of the Wayuu people, an indigenous group with a rich cultural heritage. You can learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life. The region is famous for Wayuu woven bags (mochilas), which are hand-made and highly sought after. Unfortunately we didn’t have much time to immerse in the daily life of the Wayuus but we visited the Salina de Manaure with its family business passed from generation to generation. We talked to the ladies and bought some of the lovely salt based products – spices and cosmetics.
Tayrona National Park
Just outside Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park is a must-visit. One of Colombia’s most famous parks. A breathtaking natural reserve with stunning beaches, rainforest trails, and archaeological sites. You can hike through the lush jungle, relax on pristine beaches, ‘meet’ diverse wildlife (be aware of snakes hanging from trees after dark) and even explore ancient indigenous ruins.
I recommend staying overnight in the natural reserve and enjoy two full days there. There are really nice accommodations there, from rooms and cabins to (fancy) tents. Just book in advance as places are limited. We made the mistake of not having planned enought time. We went fot ‘just a day-hike’ but by the time we arrived (on a bus from Palomino), settled the luggage storage etc., it was already mid-day. So the ‘day-hike’ in reality became a ‘few-hours hike’. The park is huge, the trails are long and it’s so hot that you need to dip into the ocean every now and then while hiking. After 5pm it gets dark(er), the snakes come out and you have to find your way back before the gates close. We had to hurry which wasn’t fun. Francesca stayed overnight in a tent but I had to work the next morning – meaning I needed internet connection, and so I went back to civilization… and got stuck in a road blockage for hours – hungry and sweaty, in a small van, perched at the back seat, next to a moaning pregnant lady and with no opportunity to open the window. And of course with no internet connection! A very claustrophobic adventure. I just sent a prayer to the pee-God to prevent me from needing to use the bathroom any time soon. Another OMMMM moment…
Next day, we met up in Santa Marta and took a bus to Cartagena. More about the emerald city in my related article.
Eje Cafetero – Colombia’s Coffee Triangle
After Cartagena I went to explore the center of the country – Colombia’s coffee region: The Eje Cafetero is the heart of Colombia’s coffee industry and a must-visit if you want to experience the vibrant culture of rural Colombia. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, cultural enrichment, and…coffee!
Eje Cafetero is part of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, a region recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its cultural significance and the role it plays in Colombia’s coffee production. You can visit coffee farms (fincas) and learn about the coffee-making process, from picking the beans to roasting and brewing. And of course tasting sessions (cupping). I went to Finca Ocasa and it was a lovely experience. Despite the rain I enjoyed picking the fruit by myself in the lush labyrinth of the plantation.
The region hosts several coffee-related festivals throughout the year, where visitors can enjoy parades, music, dancing, and, of course, plenty of coffee. These events celebrate the region’s heritage and the importance of coffee in Colombian culture.
Salento and other charming andean towns
Besides the rich coffee culture the region is known for charming little towns nestled between mountains and lush landscapes. Remember the picturesque town from Disney’s ‘Encanto’? It’s Salento! One of the most popular towns in the Eje Cafetero! With its colonial architecture and vibrant streets it’s gateway for excursions into the surounding nature. I made it my home for a week and from here I took trips to the nearby towns, the coffee plantations and the Cocora Valley.
To do so you simply jump on one of the willies – the offroad jeeps, which every morning loaded with international fellow adventurers leave the main square of Salento. Just go to the square in the morning, get a ticket, hob on, meet new people and enjoy the adventure. Easy!
I also liked Filandia: Another charming, colourful town, similar to Salento, that embodies the spirit of traditional Colombian culture. The people of Eje Cafetero are known for their warmth and hospitality. Staying at traditional posada or interacting with locals provides an authentic experience of Colombian rural life. I felt very safe in Eje Cafetero. After my daily excursions, I returned to Salento. It was my ‘home base’. A week later I had a feeling of knowing everyone in the local bars and cafés. I went for lovely messages, enjoyed sunsets from the Mirador de Salento and in the evenings I gathered people for a drink and live music sessions at Kafé Del Alma – a cute treehouse bar.
Cocora Valley & Wax Palms
Cocora Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes in Colombia. It is home to the towering wax palms, the national tree of Colombia, which can reach heights of up to 60 metres. The valley offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Andean mountains. I had a lovely hike, met nice people and left with stunning pictures. The region offers a variety of adventure activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, rafting, and mountain biking. The diverse terrain makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hot Springs & Los Navados
The lovely couple that I befriended on the Guajira Tour lives in Pereira. I visited them on a weekend during my Salento stay. After enjoying a day in the city, we went to spend the evening dipping into hot springs. The region has several natural thermal springs, perfect for relaxation. We went to Aguas Termales San Vicente but the most famous is Santa Rosa de Cabal. We soaked our bodies in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush greenery. Nice ! (It actually reminded me of New Zealand).
Next day, we went to the Nevados National Natural Park. Eje Cafetero is rich in biodiversity, with several national parks and natural reserves Los Nevados has snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. It’s a great spot for hiking and exploring high-altitude ecosystems. Unfortunately we got into heavy rain and had to keep our excursion short. It was great to go up there though. On the way back we stopped for dinner in Manizales – a university town.
I ended my ‘green adventure’ by taking the bus from Salento to Armenia, the capital of the Quindío region. The city is nothing special. I walked around, met up with a German friend who lives there, then I flew down to Bogotá, followed by Cali and Medellín (you can read all about it in my related articles at the end of this post).
But there is more: Curious & Mystic Places
For those of you who like ‘weird’ places and who are seeking something out of the ordinary, here are some ideas:
Sleeping on the water, in a tree or in the air
There are a few Casas en el Árbol (houses on a tree) around Colombia. You can find them on Booking or AirBnB. They offer a charming treehouse experience – nestled high up in the trees they provide stunning views of the surrounding.
Casa en el Aire (house in the Air) is nothing for those who are afraid of heights: This aero hostel south of Medellín is perched on the edge of a cliff. You can enjoy amazing mountain views and zipline WHILE relaxing on a hammock – if relaxing under such circumstances is even possible..LOL!
Should you go to Islas del Rosario you might want to go for the cool experience of sleeping on the water. Casa en el Agua (house in the water) is a popular hostel located on a small island in the Rosario Archipelago, off the coast of Cartagena. The entire hostel is built on stilts over the water, offering a social, rustic experience where you can jump straight into the sea from your room.
Hiking the Mystic Trail
The Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida) is another must for adventurers. This challenging four-day hike through the Sierra Nevada (departing from Santa Marta) leads you to an ancient Tayrona city, offering a blend of history and stunning natural scenery. I hear that the trek is physically demanding but very rewarding, providing a deep sense of accomplishment and connection with nature. Unfortunately I didn’t do it. Next time!
Last but not least: Is Colombia safe ?
As I said in my previous article (Solo Female Traveler in Colombia): once considered a dangerous country, Colombia now emerged as a safe country to visit – even alone. The big cities can be a bit tricky in terms of pickpocketing but in all the ‘nature places’ described in this article I felt generally very safe.
As on every trip: Be aware, think logically, keep an eye on your belongings, and just be generally smart. Embrace the spirit of exploration, immerse yourself in the local culture, and discover the many facets of this captivating country. Enjoy! And don’t hesitate to reach out to me on @b_kosmo
Getting around Colombia
- Medellin – Santa Marta: plane
- Santa Marta – Minka – Palomino – Tayrona: bus
- La Guajira: tour with a driver starting from Riohacha
- Santa Marta – Cartagena: bus
- Cartagena – Pereira: plane
- Pereira – Salento: bus
- Around Salento: Filandia, Cocora, coffee fincas: Jeep (Willy)
- Nevados & Manizales: private car with friends
- Salento – Armenia: bus
- Armenia – Bogotá: plane
- Bogota – Cali: plane
- Cali – Medellin: plane
My fav’s – Food & Drinks
- Santa Marta: Guasimo
- Minca: Duni Cafe, Amora, The Lazy Cat
- Palomino: Casa Cocotte, 7 Mares, La Ola, Playa Mojito
- Salento: Kafé Del Alma, La Martina, Wabi, La Taperia, Cafe Quindio
- Filandia: Mirum, La Remesa
- Coffee Finca: El Ocaso
And now let me take you to the big cities:
Modern & Colonial Colombia for solo female travelers – Medellín & Cartagena
Art & Culture in Colombia – a solo female traveler in Bogotá & Cali
Solo Female Traveler in Colombia – Useful Tips
