Colombia is as full of paradisiacal landscapes as it is of history. Visiting the 10 most beautiful villages in Colombia is an excellent way to discover a country where the strong colonial past has left its mark!
Colombia owes its name to Simón Bolívar who, in liberating New Grenada, decided to pay homage to the navigator Christopher Columbus. Architecture, plantations, cultures and traditions are marvelously preserved in many parts of the country today.
So it’s no surprise that we’re taking you on a tour of Colombia’s 10 most beautiful villages, which have managed to retain their splendour and colors of yesteryear!
1. Monguí, Boyacá
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Luz Zuluaga Photography
Founded in 1601, Monguí is a typical village where time seems to have stood still. Overlooking the Boyacá hills, you’ll be swept away by the charm of this village with its cobbled streets, colonial houses, large central square and Notre Dame basilica.
Its inhabitants, all dressed in ponchos, will give you a warm welcome. They will not hesitate to share with you the unique art of making hand-sewn balloons. Monguí is also the starting point for hikes in the Páramo de Ocetá, where you’ll be impressed by an ecosystem as sublime as it is rare!
2. Guatapé, Antioquia
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Anamaria Mejia
Located 72 kilometers from Medellin, Guatapé has everything you could wish for. A truly colorful village, the lower parts of the houses are decorated with zócalos, a tradition that goes back more than a century. These sculpted frescoes once represented the trades or passions of the inhabitants, and continue to do so today according to the boundless imagination of their creators.
Flooded and shaped by the electric dam, the Guatapé valley has become one of Colombia’s wonders. Climb the 649 steps of La Piedra del Peñol to reach one of the world’s most incredible viewpoints.
3. Salento, Quindío
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Barna Tanko
The gateway to the Cocora Valley and its extraordinary giant wax palms, Salento is well worth a visit. As the oldest municipality in the department, it is known as the « Father of Quindio ».
Salento is a colorful architectural village. In the Calle Real, its white colonial houses with brightly painted facades and balconies give it a unique and welcoming character. A symbol of the coffee-growing region, the collection of Jeep Wyllis parked near the central park transport passengers and precious coffee over the steep roads.
4. Jardín, Antioquia
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Antoine Barthelemy
If you want to visit one of Colombia’s most beautiful villages, Jardín is a must. The central square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, where wooden tables and chairs provide a colorful setting for enjoying 100% organic coffee. Its magnificent semi-Gothic « Immaculate Conception » church is worth a visit in itself. Built between 1918 and 1942, the faithful used to bring hand-cut stones to the church in remission of their sins.
Located between the mountains, Jardín delights young and old alike. Hikes lasting just a few hours will take you through coffee and banana plantations. You’ll also be enchanted by the many waterfalls, handmade Panela products and trout farms. 2 sites not to be missed when visiting Jardin :
- Cerro Cristo Rey, with its incredible view of the city
- The rustic Garucha cable car, which will put the biggest smile on your face.
5. La Playa de Belén, Norte Santander
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Emiliano Barbieri
Since 1862, Playa de Belèn has stood the test of time. This authentic little village is a real haven of peace. Comprising just 3 streets, it has preserved its original architecture. Even the shop signs are still made of wood. The 2 gold domes of the Temple of Saint Joseph of Bethlehem contrast with its totally white facade. But there’s more to Playa de Belén than just its colonial center: you’ll find some of the country’s most stunning scenery.
Just a few hundred metres from the village, Los Estoraques Natural Park reveals a treasure trove of over 4 million years. In this desert landscape, you’ll discover gigantic columns formed by erosion. Some are up to 30 metres high. Along the trails, you’ll be amazed by the high walls, labyrinths and artistic shapes created by wind and water.
6. Mompox, Bolivar
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Founded in 1537, Mompox is considered one of Colombia’s oldest villages. It played an essential role in Spanish expansion, and was also the fallback town when Cartagena was attacked or captured. Situated along the Magdalena River, Mompox is based on Margarita Island. Access can be difficult, but not impossible. Motorized lancha boats take you there, adding to the charm of this sleepy village.
White colonial houses adorn the streets, and strolling through them is a unique experience. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mompox is also considered the cradle of Colombian silversmithing. Renowned the world over, the work of the silversmiths can be visited in the various workshops.
7. Barichara, Santander
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Joerg Steber
Peace and quiet reign in Barichara. So much so, in fact, that you’d be forgiven for thinking you were shooting Hollywood films here. Founded in 1705, the village is adorned with white and ochre houses dominating the cobblestone streets. These contrast with the natural, Andalusian-style backdrop. The village’s elevated position offers impressive panoramic views.
Restaurants, craftsmen and souvenir stores will welcome you with open arms. To round off your day, take the Camino Real. This was built by the local natives and restored by the German Geo von Lengerke. This 6-kilometre stretch of trail, which is effortless and downhill, takes you all the way to Guané. When you arrive in this small village, take the opportunity to rest and try the Sabajón , a local drink handed down from generation to generation. Barichara is a must if you’re looking to visit Colombia’s most beautiful villages!
8. Villa de Leyva, Boyacá
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Declared a national monument in 1954, Villa de Leyva is considered one of Colombia’s most beautiful villages. It is characterized by its lime-walled buildings, colonial facades and verandas. Its majestic Plaza mayor (the largest in the country) will not leave you indifferent either, with its surface area of 14,000 m2.
Despite its evolution, the town remains very traditional and offers a wide range of possibilities for visits: museums, hikes and festivals. Just a few kilometers from Villa de Leyva are the Pozos Azules. They may be man-made, but you’re sure to be fascinated. In fact, the contrast between the turquoise blue of the lakes and the surrounding desert makes for magnificent photos.
9. Aguadas, caldas
Photo Credit: Flickr – Luis Alveart
Founded in 1808, Aguadas is also known as the « city of mists » due to its constant fog. This picturesque village is known not only for its architecture, landscapes and coffee culture, but also for having preserved its folklore and traditions.
Indeed, the famous Aguadas hat is the symbol of the municipality. The hat is handmade from Toquilla or Iraca palm fiber, grown and processed in the region. The National Hat Museum and a number of workshops are open to tourists. They will enable you to learn a little more about this ancestral technique.
10. Santa Fé de Antioquia
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Antoine Barthelemy
Until Medellin took over in 1826, Santa Fé de Antioquia was the region’s capital. Founded in 1541, the « Mother City » – as its inhabitants call it – has remained untouched ever since. It is a historical and architectural marvel.
Every corner of the village is a piece of heritage, transporting us back to a bygone era. In Santa Fé de Antioquia, it’s a good idea to stroll along the cobbled streets or to the Plaza Mayor. From here, admire the white colonial houses in calicanto style, with carved wooden doors and windows. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is also worth a look. Its designer, Domingo de Petrés, was also the architect of Bogotá’s Cathedral, Colombia’s first.
Don’t set off again without walking across the Pont de l’Occident over the Cauca River. This 19th-century jewel is one of the world’s first suspension bridges and is classified as a national monument!
Now you know all the secrets for visiting Colombia’s most beautiful villages!
Map of hotels and accommodations – Colombia