Colombia Off-The-Beaten-Path

By: Luisa from Wonder Travel

We pride ourselves on recommending exceptional places that are filled with life-changing experiences, and our beloved, Colombia definitely hits that mark. This South American treasure filled with breathtaking landscapes, heartwarming locals, and cultural richness invites any type of traveler to explore its off-the-beaten-path destinations. 

Need help to choose your next Colombian destination? Here are 6 of the most iconic hidden gems across the country:

1. Guaviare

Located in Colombia's Amazon region is the bucket-list destination of Guaviare. A territory filled with natural beauty and ancestral history that’s home to the Nukak, Sikuani, and Guayabero tribes. Its multiple highlights make this location the ideal place to experience unforgettable adventures that combine art, exploration, and nature. Trek through unpaved roads until the Puerta de Orion and visit the Black Lagoon with its staggering number of wildlife species. Don’t miss the red pictographs of Cerro Azul, rock formations over 12,000 years old that’ll wake anyone’s adventurous spirit!

2. Cerros de Mavecure:

Isolated in the depths of the department of Guainía are the three granite hills of, Pájaro, Mono, and Mavecure. Surrounded by the Inirida River and the Amazon Rainforest, these geological rock formations are considered sacred sites by multiple indigenous communities living in the area. Journey through the surrounding landscapes and visit Caño San Joaquín’s orange waters. Swim in the waters of the giant Orinoco River and be amazed by the “Estrella Fluvial”, the place where the Guaviare, Atabapo, and Inirida rivers converge.

3. Pacific, The place where the jungle meets the sea

Explore the exquisite natural landscapes of Colombia's Pacific Coast, where Choco, Cauca, and Gorgona become the perfect vacation escapade for outdoor aficionados. From June to October, you’ll be able to immerse in the unique experience of humpback whale-watching. Each year, these graceful marine creatures, travel from Antarctica to the black-sand beaches of Nuqui and Bahia Solano where travelers may observe courtship displays, matings, and dance calls. 

Dive into this region’s cultural heritage by visiting the Afro and indigenous communities. Learn about their knowledge of medicinal plants, the creation of handicrafts from raw materials, and the process of artisanal fishing techniques. Then, experience the native rhythms of marimbas through dances and songs. 

4. Caño Cristales

A natural gem inside the National Natural Park of La Serrania de La Macarena that looks like magic. From January to May, Caño Cristales has a pale-colored appearance, like most other rivers. However, during the rainy season, when water levels rise, and sun exposure increases, a weed called Macarenia Clavigera spreads below the surface, transforming the river’s crystalline waters into a mesmerizing liquid rainbow. Relax in its natural pools, observe the diverse wildlife, and enjoy the landscape that this picturesque destination has to offer.

5. Amazon, the largest tropical forest on Earth

Accounting for a third of Colombia's total area, this majestic place is home to more than 200 species of mammals and reptiles, birds amphibians, and fish. 

The biodiverse giant is the perfect location for travelers to participate in ecological tours, birdwatching, and night safaris while getting to know local indigenous groups that call this jungle their home. Learn about ancient traditions such as spiritual healing and the power of medicinal plants, and taste the different flavors of local dishes such as the pirarucu fish and the famous mojojoy worm.