In this spectacular coastal region you’ll find a mix of colonial towns, idyllic beaches, tropical islands, varied microsystems and the culture of the Wayúu, Colombia’s largest indigenous group.
Stretching for around 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) along Colombia’s northwesterly shores is the Costa Caribe (Caribbean Coast). Be amazed by a topography of rainforest-clad coastline, remote jungles, rolling mountains and salt plains. Visit sun-drenched beach resorts with access to blissful islands, explore colonial towns, experience Wayúu traditions, go scuba diving and hike to a hidden city.
A star attraction of the Costa Caribe is the ancient walled city of Cartagena. Gaze up at colonial palaces as you wander the serpentine streets of the UNESCO-protected Old Town. Catch a boat to the nearby Baru Island peninsula, Rosario Islands and Tierra Bomba Island. The islands’ white-sand beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun and snorkeling alongside colorful aquatic creatures.
Travel northeast to the bustling port town of Barranquilla, which attracts thousands of visitors for the flamboyant festivities of the Barranquilla Carnival. A 3-hour drive south of Cartagena is Tolú, an easygoing resort and gateway to the San Bernardo Archipelago. Travel inland to Mompox, a 16th-century colonial settlement set on a freshwater island. See a slice of Afro-Colombian life in San Basilio de Palenque, a settlement formed by escaped slaves in the 17th century.
Discover some of Colombia’s finest beaches tucked away in the forested coves of Tayrona National Natural Park. It’s just a short drive from the nation’s oldest city, Santa Marta. Nearby Taganga offers age-old fishing customs, a lively nightlife scene and affordable scuba diving classes. Enjoy hiking adventures in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, including a multiday trek to the ruins of the mystical Ciudad Perdida. Sample organic coffee and spot myriad birdlife in Minca.
Escape the crowds in La Guajira. Go kitesurfing at Cabo de la Vela and feast on fresh lobster in Punta Gallinas. Walk across huge sand dunes and visit Wayúu settlements in Macuira National Natural Park. Appreciate the Wayúu way of life while staying at a rancheria (rural village).
Cartagena and Santa Marta’s international airports are the main entry points to the Costa Caribe. Expect hot year-round temperatures, which gives you the perfect excuse to dive into the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea.
