Capital | Bogota |
Area | 1 138 910 km² |
Population | 45 618 000 people |
Official language | Spanish |
Currency | Colombian peso |
Climate | year-round on the coast +27 ° C |
Recommended type of holiday | beach vacation sightseeing |
About country
No longer a destination for just daredevils, this extraordinary country has battled decades of civil turmoil to emerge as one of South America's hottest new destinations. It is jammed with unspoilt mountains, coastline and jungle, not to mention stunning archaeological sites and vibrant culture. Ten years ago, Colombia was famous only for its drug dealers, left-wing guerrilla groups and paramilitaries. But with the militant groups now at their weakest point in decades, this beautiful country is enjoying a travel renaissance with more and more tourists emboldened to visit.And they are finding much to explore. Natural attractions include rippling mountains, expanses of the Amazon Basin, large lakes, vast plains and a Caribbean coastline that twinkles with azure water. Meanwhile man-made wonders include lost cities, fabulous pre-Columbian sculpture and colourful colonial houses adorn the towns. Until now, Colombia has received relatively few travellers in comparison with other South American nations, and visitors can expect an unfeigned welcome and genuine curiosity from its people.
Sightseeing
Join in the festivities of the Barranquilla Carnaval, when vibrant costumes, energetic dancing and lively music transform the industrial port. The main parades take place on the three days preceding Ash Wednesday and are second in size only to Rio's carnival. Head for the dizzying heights of Bogotá, which sits at 2,600m (8,600ft). Historical landmarks include the Capitol (congress building) and the cathedral (the Capilla del Sangrario) on the main square, the Plaza Bolivar. Warm up those hips for some serious salsa dancing. The hot-blooded city of Cali is one of the world's top destinations for salsa. Head off-road on a motorbike or 4-wheel drive vehicle: Colombia's rugged terrain is ideally suited to driving enthusiasts seeking a muddy challenge.
Traditions
Colombia's culture is similar to its geographical position: at the crossroads of America and Latin America. As such, its cultural influences range from Native American and Caribbean to European, Sanish, African and Middle Eastern. Dress, accent, music and food vary from every region of the country. Nonetheless, the majority of the population is Roman Catholic and they celebrate festivals related to that religion. These festivities include the Barranquilla Carnival, the Carnival of Blacks and Whites, and Festival of Flowers. Colombia's music and dance reflect the country's different ethnic customs. The most famous of these are cumbia and vallenato, which have been influenced by popular culture.
Cuisine
Colombian cooking is mainly influenced by European countries such as Spain, Italy and France. Mexico, Latin American countries, the United States and the Caribbean have also contributed to traditional indigenous cuisine. The Colombian comfort food is tamales or maize and chipped chicken and pork with vegetables and eggs, steamed in banana leaves, often served with homemade hot chocolate and eaten for breakfast. During Christmas, Colombians indulge in buñuelos or deep-fried corn flour balls with cheese, and arepas or thick corn tortillas often mixed with cheese and served with butter.