The novelty and tradition of the Andes region
In the Andes region, you’ll find vast cities, charming villages, and a wealth of ecological diversity.
Located in the heart of Colombia, the Andes region is one of the most populated areas of the country. Its geography, water resources, and great cultural and natural wealth will leave you wanting more.
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The three branches of the Colombian Andes—the Cordillera Occidental, Cordillera Central, and Cordillera Oriental—are home to valleys, canyons, and plateaus that fill the area to the brim with breathtaking beauty. Among these majestic mountain ranges, you’ll also find a river system composed of the two most important rivers in Colombia: the Magdalena and the Cauca.
In addition to these stunning natural resources, the number of important cities in the Andes region also help set it apart. For example, Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia, is located in this area. With a population of over 7 million, Bogotá is currently one of the most popular places to do business in Latin America. In fact, in 2018 alone, the city registered a 3% growth in its GDP.
The capital is also known for its varied cultural offering and sites of tourist interest, like Monserrate, an enormous hill in the city’s center that houses a 17th century church and shrine, or the Plaza de Bolívar, a square found at the heart of Bogotá’s historic center.
Medellín, another noteworthy Colombian city, is also found in the Andes region. Medellín, which has recently been characterized by rapid social and economic growth, was named “Innovative City of the Year” by The Wall Street Journal in 2012. It has become a captivating tourist destination with over 800,000 visitors in 2018.
Known affectionately as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín brings together regional traditions and culture to charm visitors with one of Colombia’s most important celebrations: The Flower Festival.
Important cities like Bucaramanga, Cúcuta, Manizales, Neiva, and Ibagué are also located in the expansive Andes region, which is the most economically active area of the country.
The Andes region’s diverse ecosystem is another of the area’s attractions. This ecological diversity is reflected in its numerous natural parks such as Los Nevados National Nature Park, El Cocuy National Nature Park, and the Galeras Volcano Wildlife Sanctuary, home to hundreds of plant and animal species.
And if the Andes region’s outstanding selection of cultural, architectural, and natural attractions aren’t enough to ensure your trip will be an absolutely unforgettable experience, just wait till you try the food. Sample delicacies like ajiaco (chicken and potato soup), tamales (seasoned meat wrapped in cornmeal dough and steamed or baked), lechona (stuffed pork), and bandeja paisa (a mixed platter of crispy pork belly, beans, beef, chorizo, plantains, cornmeal cheese bread, and other dishes typical of the Paisa region).
So, come explore the Andes region! Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures of different local dishes. Feel the rhythm of a region that brings together innovation, novelty, and tradition. We’ll see you there!