5 Amazing Alternatives To Colombia's Tourist Traps

Colombia's reputation as one of the most exciting countries to travel to has been growing in the past few years. As a result, this South American country has experienced a rise in the number of tourists visiting the nation. Certain sites have become very touristy and people are starting to look for alternative options. The good news is Colombia has a lot to offer to those adventurous souls visiting the country, so keep on reading to discover the amazing alternatives to Colombia's tourist traps.

The Samaria Valley

Where to find it: Caldas Department

Known as 'The Secret Valley of La Samaria', this place is home to the tallest palm trees in the world and Colombia's national tree - the Wax Palms. 

The Samaria Valley is often overlooked by tourists who choose to visit the more popular Cocora Valley, which draws ten of tousands of travellers every year. However, with three times the number of Wax Palms and far fewer visitors than the Cocora Valley, La Samaria is the ideal place for those wanting to enjoy one of Colombia's most beautiful countryside sceneries. 

Filandia

Where to find it: Quindío Department 

This delightful little town is the perfect alternative to the increasingly touristy Salento. Located in the heart of the Colombian coffee region, Filandia is a great option if you want to pamper your palate with authentic Colombian coffee. Moreover, this town is home to colorful architecture, world-class restaurants, beautiful coffee plants views and friendly locals. 

Isla Fuerte

Where to find it: Córdoba Department 

Isla Fuerte is a small coral island located in the Caribbean Coast only 11 km from mainland Colombia. This small piece of land is home to beautiful mangroves and sloths. It offers plenty of watersports, such as diving, kiteboarding and surfing. 

As part of the island chain known as The Rosario Islands, Isla Fuerte is a slice of paradise surrounded by turquoise waters and the perfect alternative to one of Cartagena's biggest tourist traps - Playa Blanca. 

Providencia

Where to find it: Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina 

Crab Cay

Isla de Providencia is a mountainous Caribbean island located 90 km north of the island of San Andrés. It's a wonderfully remote island with breathtaking scenery, beautiful turquoise waters, gorgeous golden-sand beaches and super friendly locals. 

Surrounded by the 'Sea of The Seven Colors', Providencia is home to the world's third longest coral reef, after The Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Belize Barrier Reef, making the island a truly diver's paradise. 

Providencia is the ideal place for those seeking an authentic island vibe and a great alternative to the extremely touristy and developed island of San Andrés. 

Monguí

Where to find it: Boyacá Department 

Monguí is located about three hours away from Bogotá, which makes it an ideal destination for a weekend trip away from the Colombian capital. This town is overlooked by tourists who choose to visit its popular neighbor, Villa de Leyva. However, with its colonial architecture, stone streets and its soccer ball industry, Monguí is worth taking the time to visit. 

This town is great for nature lovers as it's home to the Ocetá Páramo. Tourists can go trekking while enjoying breathtaking views and observing endemic plant and animal species along the way.

¡Viva Colombia!

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