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Do believe the hype about Colombia in terms of the bad press that it gets – for some regions, but if you take the time and do some exploring you will find that the places that they don’t talk about in the news, and these are relaxed and naturally beautiful South American wonders.

Bogota

Bogota is the country’s capital and is the essence of all things Colombian, epitomised by diverse architecture and culture as well as a diversity of wealth. The home of beggars, bankers and drug dealers, Bogota is one of the most gripping and frantic places you could ever experience.

In terms of sights to include in your visit, the Museo del Oro is probably the most important museum of its type in the world, jam-packed with relics and artefacts from pre-Colombian history. The Museo Nacional has a more contemporary range of artistic exhibits. There are many ornate churches and cathedrals in the city that are certainly worth a visit.

By comparison, the hustle and bustle of everyday street life, from the varied roadside stalls to the interesting shops, provides the observer with a more dynamic atmosphere. Spend some time watching the buskers at the Plaza de Santander, or browsing the stalls of the flea market on a Sunday at Mercado de las Puglas.

There is also a wonderful arts and entertainment scene here, from the discos spilling out the Cuban rhythms in the Zona Ros, theatre and classical music, to bullfighting and football.

Guatavita

About an hour away from the city is the small colonial town of Guatavita with its famous lake, the Laguna de Guativita, the sacred waters of the Musica Indians.

Getsemani

The walled town of Getsemani is also a worthwhile place to visit, but the relics and buildings are not quite so well preserved. There are, however, a few Spanish forts here that are rather impressive, such as the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, renowned for being the greatest fort the Spanish ever built.

Rosario

The island of Rosario off the shore of Cartagena is blessed with magnificent coral reefs and aquatic life, and is a popular destination with snorkellers and scuba divers. This island also has some very upmarket holiday resorts, but does try to cater for all.

The North-West

The north-west is made up of two large regions: the sparsely populated tropical rainforest area of the Chocó department, which includes the beautiful Los Katios National Park; and the departments of Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda and Quindío. The latter is a scenic mountain region and the location of the commercial and industrial hub, Medellin. About an hour away is Santa Fe de Antioquia, which is the oldest town in the region and has managed to preserve much of its former colonial beauty.

The South-West

The biggest attractions in the southwest are the archaeological sites of San Agustín and Tierradentro, and the colonial city of Popayán. Both San Agustín and Tierradentro are littered with ancient statues, tombs and burial mounds, while Popayán has many churches, museums and streets lined with colonial mansions.
Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, is noted more for its laid-back atmosphere than its tourist attractions.

From London to Bogotá is 12 hours 50 minutes.

Average summer (July-September) temperature: 14-27°C (depending on elevation).

More information available in Destinations, South America