Our favorite spots on Colombia's Caribbean coast

Colombia’s Caribbean coast alone offers a remarkable diversity of landscapes and experiences: the wild beaches of Tayrona Park, where the Sierra Nevada plunges into the sea, the carnival traditions of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the colonial architecture of Cartagena, and the protected marine ecosystems of the Rosario archipelago. This 1,600-kilometer coastal region, bathed by the warm waters of the Caribbean, offers a condensed version of Colombia’s cultural and natural wealth.

Fabien, our Medellín-based travel consultant, shares his first-hand experience of this coastline, where indigenous Kogi communities, descendants of Africans deported during the colonial period, live side by side with a Caribbean cultural mix. His itinerary combines self-guided trekking in Tayrona, immersion in the festivities of Barranquilla – Latin America’s second-largest carnival after Rio -, discovery of Cartagena’s fortified historic center, and relaxation in the coral archipelago of El Rosario, classified a national natural park since 1977.

This account illustrates the diversity of a trip to the Caribbean coast, a territory where colonial history has shaped monumental cities, while preserved natural spaces are home to exceptional biodiversity, from the rainforests of the Sierra Nevada to the coral reefs of the islands.

Playas Bravas Trek - Tayrona Park

My trip begins in the Tayrona region with a two-day trek through Tayrona Park to Playas Bravas. Before embarking on this adventure, I spent the night in a magnificent hotel overlooking Tayrona Park. Early in the morning, I was treated to a unique spectacle: a bird’s-eye view of the park, where the colors intensify with the sun’s rays. In the morning, I headed for the secondary entrance to Tayrona Park, called Calabazo. The adventure begins! The first day’s hike begins with an ascent offering exceptional views of the Sierra Nevada.

It’s possible to come across members of the native Kogi community, a small village of which can be seen in the distance overlooking the road. The dirt road then becomes a small path that winds its way through lush vegetation. The tranquility of the park, the diversity of the flora, the songs of the birds and the trickling of the streams all combine to create a soothing, pleasant atmosphere.

Before descending to Playa Brava Bay, you can enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains on the one hand, and an incredible view of the sea and Playa Brava Bay on the other. The arrival at Playa Brava Bay is breathtaking! A heavenly, intimate setting between coconut palms and the Caribbean Sea.

I spend the night in a hammock, lulled by the sound of the waves, after tasting the house’s succulent fried fish.

The next day, we resume our walk in the heart of the jungle. Along the way, you can make several stops on beaches, each more beautiful than the last. An unmissable swim at Cabo San Juan, one of the country’s best-known beaches, before crossing a large palm grove, which marks the final stage of this trek.

Carnival in Baranquilla

The second part of my trip was more cultural and festive. A stop in Barranquilla to discover its famous Carnival! On the program: parades, colors, music, feathers and cerveza! 3 days of festivities. On the eve of the first day of parades, the Barranquilleros elect the popular Carnival Queen, followed by three days of parades and festivities. The first day is the « Batalla de flores », a parade of personalities, artists, caricatures and musical floats that enliven the crowd and set the tone for the next two days.

The second day of the parade is the « Gran parada de tradición« . The parade showcases Colombia’s ethnic and cultural diversity. Each community parades with dance, music and costumes reflecting its culture and history.

The last day is the most colorful. The « Gran Parada de fantasía » could be called a parade of feathers and colors. It perfectly matches the image we have of carnival: sophisticated, colorful costumes, elaborate choreography and a never-ending show, to the delight of the eyes.

Beyond the shows during the parades, what captivates me most is the atmosphere of celebration, sharing and goodwill. All the spectators sing and dance together, spraying each other with foam and cornflour as they share a drink – that’s the spirit of Barranquilla carnival! When night falls, the city’s streets are transformed into a gigantic open-air disco.

Cartagena de Indias

My trip continues with a visit to the must-see colonial city of Cartagena de Indias. This city steeped inhistory is remarkable for its architecture and cultural diversity.

Strolling through the streets of the old town, I discover the diversity of influences that make up its history. The walled old town hides colorful, flower-filled colonial-style houses.

The Museum of Memory and the Inquisition, housed in the former Palace of the Inquisition, is the perfect introduction to the history of this city, once a major seaport and gateway for European settlers.

The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas also traces part of the city’s history and bears witness to its importance during the Spanish colonial era. By day or by night, the bohemian Getsemaní district is an ideal place to stroll and let yourself be carried away by the Caribbean atmosphere. To the beat of the drums, you’ll discover colorful, lively streets, ideal for a typical costeño meal.

Isla Grande - Archipelago of the Rosary

My journey ends in the heart of the Rosario archipelago onIsla Grande, one of the 27 islands of the archipelago. Surrounded by mangroves and lagoons, the island is home to numerous species, including birds, iguanas and land crabs ….

I rent a kayak and, accompanied by my guide, I cross the various lagoons to observe the fauna in its natural element. I then take a stroll through the island’s small village, which is particularly lively in the evenings and at weekends.

The next morning, I set off for a snorkelling session to discover the incredible marine biodiversity of the Caribbean: fish, coral, seaweed, it’s a fabulous panorama of colors that unfolds before me. For the lucky ones, it’s possible to spot sea turtles and even dolphins. I loved my stay on Isla Grande, it’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the turquoise waters and warmth of the Caribbean, before returning to Medellín and getting back to work to organize equally incredible trips for you!