Colombia nature is intrinsically connected to daily life.
This beautiful country inspires a sense of adventure too, which will ensure you disconnect from the day-to-day and create incredible memories and impressions.
Let Colombia’s majestic landscapes charm you and explore unique locations that are defined by their peaceful setting and strong connection to nature.
Here we present five of Colombia’s hidden treasures for travelers looking to enjoy and explore the country’s natural wealth in centres dedicated to health and wellness.
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1. Experience the picturesque Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta’s snow-capped peaks constitute the world’s tallest coastal mountain range and its mountains are nothing short of picturesque.
To the indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada, the land is sacred too and visitors here learn much from these groups’ knowledge, wisdom and cultural traditions.
The serenity of the natural world in this mountain range, close to the city of Santa Marta on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, will inspire you to connect with the region’s spiritual and ecological traditions, and experience all the wonder this place has to offer.
Here you can taste the world’s best honey, coffee, and cacao—straight from the source.
You can also indulge in one of the many hotels and spas sprinkled across the foothills of the Sierra Nevada that offer relaxing massages and wellness treatments, as well as nature walks and ecotourism activities such as birdwatching.
2. Be awed by the humpback whales in Nuqui
Every year, schools of humpback whales migrate north to visit the warm shores of the small town of Nuqui, in the department of Choco on Colombia’s Pacific coast, and share their most precious ritual: the birth of their calves.
Embark on a journey to see these majestic creatures in their natural environment, and at the same time, you will set out on a journey of self-discovery through energy, connection and an unforgettable encounter with Colombia nature.
Remember that these incredible animals are naturally curious, so you will not need to go far to find them – they will come and investigate whoever has taken a small boat out onto the waves of the Pacific to visit them.
Encounters with nature like this one are incredibly rewarding. You can also walk the expansive beaches of the area, delight in the local gastronomy, bathe in mineral waters, and experience ancestral cleansing rituals, meditation, and traditional Chocoan stories.
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3. Lose yourself in remote Providencia Island
Deep in the Colombian Caribbean sits the little-known island of Providencia —a piece of untouched paradise.
Located in the middle of the aquamarine waters known as the Sea of Seven Colors for their multiple hues, this is the perfect place to go off-grid and connect with nature, swimming and snorkeling with shoals of tropical fish.
Relax, unwind and restore your mind on the pristine white sands of the beaches here, and experience the colorful flora and fauna of the nearby tropical forest.
As soon as you are ready to expend energy and reconnect with Colombia nature, set off for the island’s El Pico Natural Park where you can trek from Casbaja to the summit and absorb a stunning 360-degree view of both the island and the sea.
After the hike, spend a few days in a local spa where you can access the wellness treatments as well as the island’s famously fresh, healthy and tasty cuisine.
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4. Be amazed by the natural wonder of Caño Cristales
Deep in the Serrania de la Macarena national park, you will discover what has been called the most beautiful river in the world—Caño Cristales.
This natural wonder is also known as the ‘River of Five Colors’ because for a few special months between the wet and dry seasons, its waters are illuminated with shades of yellow, blue, green, red, and black, thanks to a rare and unusual underwater plant.
Here you can rest amid the full spectrum of nature’s achievements and immerse yourself in the culture of the llanos orientales (eastern plains) region, with its music, cuisine, dance and love for life on the cattle-herding plains at the edge of the Amazon rainforest.
Caño Cristales is a magical place for healing your mind, body, and spirit with the energy of water and crystals and awe for the delights of the natural world.
5. Connect with the wonder and mysticism of the Mavecure Hills
Exploring the ancestral lands at the northern tip of the Amazon rainforest is a powerful way to connect with the wide-ranging energy of the Mavecure Hills.
There are many ways here to connect with Colombia nature and show your humility and appreciation for its life-giving work. Take a gentle hike through historic, religious and mythical sites, untouched by the modern world.
Learn too from the local indigenous community, who will show you the biological and cultural diversity of this beautiful land, and share aspects of their culture, rituals, beliefs and work towards preserving the planet’s singular biodiversity.
You can also embark on a magical excursion through the Amazonian rivers, and bathe in their waters before camping on the bank with an unparalleled view of the hills themselves.
Colombia is a country defined by the lushness of its biodiversity. Spend time in these five destinations, ideal for relaxation and wellness, and you will be warmly welcomed as you let go of your attachment to the everyday, and truly connect with nature.
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