Whether it's misty or sunny, you'll love the unusual landscape in the Cocora Valley. The enchanting ambiance and the sheer number of wax palms, a national symbol, are impressive, to say the least!

The lofty heights of the Corcora Valley.

The Tayrona National Natural Park is accessd by a trail that winds through the jungle.  It's about an hour's walk and you'll end up on a coast that is lined with equally stunning beaches and creeks.

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Colombia

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

 Salento is a colourful little town lying on a plateau in the mountains of Colombia's coffee-growing region (department of Quindío) and  simply overflowing with Colombian arts and crafts.

Salento

45 minutes away from Neiva, the town of Villavieja can be found in the very centre of the Tatacoa desert, a dry and arid forest and one of the two desert areas of Colombia along with La Guajira.

Villa Vieja

Playón is a leatherback turtle sanctuary located by the Caribbean Sea in Santuario de Fauna Acandí, Chocó Province, northwest Colombia.

Playon

The Tatacoa Desert, which is actually a dried out tropical forest, lies a few tens of kilometres from the city of Nieva, in the Colombian department of Huila.

Désert de Tatacoa

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The Tatacoa Desert isn't quite what you might expect; you won't see any expanses of sand here, and with good reason: it's actually a dried out tropical forest. Visiting and seeing the Tatacoa Desert and finding out how it evolved is very interesting. When you first set eyes on this area, you're immediately struck by the extensive amount of erosion and all the intermingling canyons and gullies that have been created in the clay surface. The water of the rainy seasons and the wind have slowly sculpted the earth here and shaped this landscape. However, the numerous several-million-year-old fossils that have been found (molluscs, rodents, giant sloths, etc.) are proof that a diverse range of flora and fauna once existed here. A day is enough to fully enjoy what the Tatacoa Desert has to offer, and hiking enthusiasts will particularly enjoy this place. I recommend either spending the night in the desert (hammocks are available for hire) or staying in Villavieja, which is the closest village to the site. This way you'll get the chance to make the most of the fact that the sky stays extremely clear almost all year round. The Tatacoa Desert also happens to be famous for having very little noise and light pollution. There are jeeps to take you from Neiva to Villavieja and across the strange, exotic landscape of this arid zone, which is a more pleasant place to explore in the "coolness" of the morning.

The Tatacoa Desert is not exactly easy to get to. Once you arrive in Neiva, you still have another ten kilometres or so to go before you reach the little town of Villavieja: the gateway to the Colombian desert. There are two options open to you: jeep or mototaxi (a motorbike-based taxi).
The Tatacoa Desert is actually a dried out tropical forest that has slowly been converted into an area of canyons and lunar-like valleys over time due to the effect of the climate. The desert takes its name from a type of rattlesnake that used to inhabit the area. The Tatacoa Desert is – it has to be said – crawling with snakes and scorpions. But no need to panic: these little creatures are generally shy and tend to avoid people; in fact it's true to say they're probably more afraid of you than you are of them.
The Tatacoa Desert has something of the pseudo Grand Canyon about it, with its ochre-coloured rock surfaces, cacti and hot, dry air. However, the similarity ends there because this rocky expanse is actually unlike anything else I saw in Colombia before I came here. Tatacoa is made up of two deserts. The red-coloured part, Cuzco, consists of a tangle of ochre-coloured labyrinths and canyons, whilst the grey part, Los Hoyos, is made up of grey anthracite rock walls and surfaces: it's actually this part of the desert where it's possible to observe large numbers of colourfully plumed birds. It should be pointed out though that they're easier to spot in Los Hoyos because their bright plumage stands out against the grey rock. 
Something interesting to note is that an astronomical observatory has been built in this desert. This is because the relatively clear, unpolluted sky above it makes it a good place for star gazing. Don't forget to sample the taste of cactus before you leave the region!

The Tatacoa Desert is located in the northern part of Huila Province, around ten kilometres from Villavieja.

The best local travel agencies in Colombia for family tours with kids

Family tour ideas in Colombia

Colombia’s culture is so unlike that of any other continent that it is certainly a must-see&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.net/where-to-go/family-vacations/" href="https://www.evaneos.net/where-to-go/family-vacations/" target="_blank">family destination</a>&nbsp;for any families looking to immerse themselves in a culture other than their own. Colombia with kids can be a hugely rewarding experience both for children and parents and there are so many fascinating places to visit and experience that you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re after a historical&nbsp;<a data-destination-id="92" data-internal-link="destination" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/colombia/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/colombia/">holiday in Colombia</a>, cultural tour, action-packed adventure or relaxing family getaway, our local travel agents are there to create your tailor-made tour. <h3>Best things&nbsp;to see and do in&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;with kids</h3>With so much to see and do, you won’t know where to start your family adventure in Colombia. Why not begin by exploring the city of La Candelaria after landing? Here, you’ll be able to get a healthy dose of culture while exploring winding streets and amazing interactive museum exhibits together. Once you’ve had your fill of city life, head out to visit an Ostrich farm, which always goes down a treat with every visitor, no matter their age. For jungle exploration and beach relaxation in equal measure, Tayrona National Park is home to tropical waters, white sand and a jungle brimming with native animals and wildlife. Go sea kayaking, swimming, snorkeling or simply take time to relax as a family and enjoy this incredible adventure. To take this tropical relaxation one step further, you can head off to Mucura Island&nbsp;by boat and feel like pirates as you escape the real world and experience a truly laid back atmosphere. In the Barichara area, you can bring yourselves back to reality with a bit of adrenaline on a thrilling river rafting adventure. Older kids can even try paragliding - the ultimate Colombian thrill that none of you will ever forget. With adventure, relaxation, culture, history and welcoming people, its no wonder that Colombia is such an incredible family destination. <h3>Best time to visit&nbsp;Colombia as a family</h3> Since Colombia is so close to the equator, temperatures are generally stable throughout the year. Rain does vary however, with the Amazon (it isn’t called a rainforest for nothing) remaining showery throughout the year. The driest periods fall between December and March and then July and August and so these are often considered the&nbsp;<a data-document-id="2975" data-internal-link="article" href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/colombia/holidays/when-to-go/" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.co.uk/colombia/holidays/when-to-go/">best times to visit</a>. Rain during the wet season is by no means constant though and can mean that prices of accommodations and attractions are lower. The busiest time is from December to February and during the week before Easter, Semana Santa and so, whilst there is a lot to do during these periods, it can become stressful to travel with children, with crowds of tourists flocking to the more popular destinations. Bear in mind that temperatures can vary a lot between inland areas and the coast and so its worth planning a little in advance to make sure you pack the right kind of clothing for the locations you and your family plan to visit. <h3>Family&nbsp;vacation tips for traveling to&nbsp;Colombia</h3>With a little research and knowledge you can ensure that you are as prepared as possible for your family trip to Colombia, here a few tips and tricks to ensure that everything runs smoothly on your vacation.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Check in with your GP before leaving to see what vaccinations and medications you will need before and during your trip. Its also worth packing some anti-nausea medications for children who get travel sick since some roads here can be winding and exacerbate travel sickness.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Insect repellent is a god send and will save you the annoyance of itchy mosquito bites further down the line.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Colombia has a huge range in altitude and visiting to places such as Bogota can result in altitude sickness if you don’t take it easy.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Consider flying where possible since long drives here don’t always go down well with younger children and a quick and easy flight leaves more time for adventure and exploration.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">If you don’t already know some Spanish, learning a few key phrases can be incredibly useful and save time and hassle during your trip should you encounter someone who isn’t getting the gist of your flailing hand gestures. Plus, it’s always nice to put in the effort and greet or thank people in their own language.</li></ul>

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for honeymoon tours

Honeymoon tour ideas in Colombia

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for wildlife tours and safaris

Wildlife trip ideas in Colombia

With millions of hectares of dense rainforest, remote mountain ranges, and diverse Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, <a data-destination-id="92" data-internal-link="destination">Colombia</a> is an ecological paradise. These varied landscapes are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from big cats and jungle birds to humpback whales.<h3>What makes Colombia's wildlife unique?</h3>One of the most biodiverse countries in the world, Colombia's wildlife includes an incredible range of species, many of which exist only in this part of the world. The country has over 1,900 species of birds, with spectacular bird watching opportunities from the grassland plains of the Llanos, to the lofty Andes Mountains. Meanwhile, the lush rainforests of the Amazon and the Pacific Coast offer the chance to see unique indigenous species such as the cotton-top tamarin monkey.<h3>The best places for wildlife tours in Colombia</h3>Colombia's wildlife is fascinating and unique and can be found across the entirety of its stunning landscapes, from the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean to the deepest Amazon Jungle.<h4>Discover the wildlife of the Amazon</h4>The Calanoa Reserve in southern Colombia is not only home to indigenous tribes, but also a breathtaking range of jungle life, including pink dolphins which can be seen swimming along <a data-place-id="3469" data-internal-link="place">the Amazon</a> river.<h4>Explore underwater life on Colombia's Caribbean coast</h4>Fascinating wildlife in Colombia not only lives above the surface but underwater as well. There are excellent opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling on the country's northern Caribbean coast, where you can get up close to mesmerizing coral reefs and schools of technicolor fish.<h4>Birdwatching in Santa Marta</h4>One of the best places to see Colombia's many bird species is in the Sanctuario de Fauna y Flora Los Flamencos. Here, birdwatchers will be able to spot many rare birds, as well as migratory flamingos which gather mainly in December and January.<h4>Whale watching in Choco</h4>Along Colombia's Pacific coast, particularly in the province of Choco, humpback whales can be spotted between July and November as part of their annual migration.<h4>See turtles on two coasts</h4>Choco is also a great place to see turtles of various kinds. The province has two coasts: the Pacific side hosts arrivals of Green and Hawksbill turtles, while the Caribbean coast of Choco sees flotillas of Leatherback turtles, the world's largest sea turtle.<h3>What's the best time of year for a wildlife tour in Colombia</h3><a data-document-id="2975" data-internal-link="article">The best time</a> to take a wildlife tour of Colombia is during the dry season, which runs from December to March when conditions are warm and mostly dry. The wet season, on the other hand, means torrential rain and parts of the rainforest become completely impassable.&nbsp;At all times of the year, conditions in the jungle can be challenging, so it is recommended to hire an experienced guide. Evaneos connects travelers with an expert local guide, who'll help you safely explore the most remote corners of Colombia and discover the country's abundant and amazing wildlife.

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for hiking and trekking trips

Tour ideas for trekking and hiking in Colombia

From the 'lost city' to the wilds of the Amazon jungle, <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/hiking-and-trekking/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/hiking-and-trekking/">hiking</a> in Colombia offers travelers the chance to discover rich and diverse landscapes, stunning wildlife, and fascinating cultural and historical sites.<h3>What makes Colombia a great destination for hiking?</h3><a data-destination-id="92" data-internal-link="destination">Colombia</a> is a vast country, much of which is made up of untouched natural environments. The Pacific coastal region is largely covered in dense jungle, as is the southeast of the country, which is part of the Amazon basin. There are also three ranges of the Andes here, offering spectacular mountain trails, as well as stunning coastline such as the Sierra de Nevada de Santa Marta.<h3>The best places to go hiking in Colombia</h3>When planning your hiking adventure in Colombia, you'll have a wide range of landscapes to choose from, from lush rainforest dotted with ancient sites, to scenic mountain trails and secluded beaches. What's more, hiking in Colombia allows you to see some of the country's most remote and beautiful ancient ruins.<h4>Discover the Lost City</h4><a data-place-id="3654" data-internal-link="place">The 'Lost City'</a>, known locally as Cuidad Perdida, is believed to have been founded by the Tayrona people over 1000 years ago. To reach it, you'll need to embark on a four to five-day trek through coastal jungles, but catching sight of the mesmerizing ancient treasure makes it well worth the effort.<h4>Hike to the beautiful beaches of Parque Tayrona</h4>Some of the best hikes in Colombia can be found along <a data-place-id="3485" data-internal-link="place">the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta</a> mountain range, and arguably the most accessible of these are in the <a data-place-id="3651" data-internal-link="place">Parque Tayrona national park</a>. Many of the short hikes here lead to the park's many stunning beaches.<h4>Admire the giant palm trees in the Cocora Valley</h4>The popular <a data-place-id="13195" data-internal-link="place">Cocora Valley</a> hiking trail starts in the small coffee-producing town of Salento, before passing through farmland, woodland, and cloud forest. It ends in the impressive Cocora Valley, famous for its 200-foot tall palm trees, the tallest in the world.<h4>Climb a volcano at Purace</h4>Purace National Park is located in the high altitudes of southern Colombia. Along with hiking past Andean lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs, hikers can scale the challenging Purace Volcano.<h4>Take in the peaks and valleys of the Andes in El Cocuy</h4>El Cocuy national park covers a stunning portion of the Andes, with glacial lakes, rocky canyons, and snow-capped mountains. Visitors can enjoy three challenging trails in this remote park.<h3>Tips for planning a hiking tour in Colombia</h3><a data-document-id="2975" data-internal-link="article">The best time</a> to go hiking in Colombia is from December to March when the weather is generally dry. During other months of the year, heavy rain is common which can make hiking trails difficult and in some cases impassable. Rain is possible year-round so be sure to pack appropriate wet-weather gear. Conditions are hot and humid in most of the country, so remember to bring a large water bottle or camel pack. Evaneos' expert local partners can recommend other specialized equipment to take and which trails will suit you best.

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for island vacations

Tour ideas for exploring Colombia's islands

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for snorkeling and diving tours

Diving and snorkeling tour ideas in Colombia

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for biking trips

Tour ideas for exploring Colombia by bike

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for wellness trips

Wellness tour ideas in Colombia

From fresh and healthy local cuisine and healing ceremonies to mountain hiking and natural hot springs, <a data-destination-id="92" data-internal-link="destination">Colombia&nbsp;</a>is a unique destination with incredible activities to help visitors rest, relax, and reinvigorate. This South American country is a brilliant place for a wellness trip.<h3>What makes Colombia a great destination for a wellness trip</h3>Colombia has a unique ecosystem, offering a beautiful location for a wellness vacation. With the Pacific Ocean to one side and the Caribbean Sea lapping the other, it’s the perfect place to unwind at a beach spa, or head inland for <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/tours-rainforest/" target="_blank">rainforest</a> adventures and natural hot springs. Yoga retreats are scattered throughout the country, and intriguing local ceremonies offer a different kind of wellness in Colombia.<h3>The best wellness experience in Colombia</h3>There’s plenty to do on a wellness retreat in Colombia, so here are our favorite activities. <h4>Retreat at the Paipa Hot Springs</h4>Located a few hours outside of <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3467-bogota/" target="_blank">Bogota</a>, the capital city of Colombia, Paipa Hot Springs is one of the country's most famous spa towns. The facility offers numerous thermal baths and pools to enjoy. There are plenty of health benefits in the waters, such as anti-ageing properties and help with sleep disorders. This is an ideal activity if you suffer from jet-lag.&nbsp;&nbsp; <h4>Energize your body with music in Barranquilla</h4>The diverse culture found in Colombia has huge influence over its eclectic music scene. You’ll be drawn to dance in the bars and clubs of Barranquilla year-round, but it’s especially thrilling during the Barranquilla Carnival in February. Not only is dancing a fantastic way to exercise, it is also said to ease pain and reduce stress while improving your overall mood. <h4>Head to a mountain yoga retreat</h4>Colombia isn’t short of yoga retreats, and some offer more than just a few moments of quiet. Head to a retreat in the mountains and you’ll get glorious views of the surrounding valleys as you practice your downward dogs and tree pose. Expert teachers will help improve your technique, and lead guided meditation classes overlooking the wilderness. <h4>Hike through the wild Amazon rainforest</h4>The Amazon rainforest is a vast ecosystem that stretches across <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/south-america-travel/" target="_blank">South America</a>, and in Colombia you can take to its trails for a wonderful addition to your wellness break. Meet unique wildlife while unplugging from the world as you explore this pristine, wild place. Hiking here will also lower your stress levels, increase mindfulness and help appreciate your surroundings away from the city and technology. <h4>Eat fresh and local across Colombia</h4>The joy of visiting South American nations like Colombia is that processed food is often hard to come by. This means the Colombian cuisine is a healthy staple on any trip, with its plentiful fresh, exotic fruit such as maracuya, pitaya, and curuba. Visit a local market or head to a restaurant to enjoy nutrient-rich local food in relaxing settings. <h3>Tips for a planning wellness getaway in Colombia</h3>For the best wellness trip, visit from December to March, when the weather is sunny and dry. Colombia faces a second, smaller dry season during the months of July to September. If you’re heading to the rainforest, pack high DEET insect-repellent to avoid getting bitten.

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The best local travel agencies in Colombia for beach vacations

Tour ideas for visiting Colombia's best beaches

From the white sands of the Caribbean coast, to the wild coastline of the country's Pacific seaboard, <a data-destination-id="92" data-internal-link="destination">Colombia</a>'s beaches are among the country's main attractions. Whether you are seeking lively beach towns with vibrant nightlife, or a quiet coastal getaway, you'll find this and more in Colombia.<h3>What makes Colombia a great beach destination?</h3>Colombia has beaches to suit all tastes and all kinds of vacation. Playa Blanca, Santa Marta, and Tayrona National Park on the northern coast offer stunning white-sand beaches set along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The western coast of the country, meanwhile, offers rugged Pacific Ocean cliffs and great opportunities to see wildlife.<h3>The best beaches to visit in Colombia</h3>With thousands of miles of coastline stretching across two of its sides, Colombia is a superb choice for a beach vacation. Whether you're seeking buzzing beachfront bars or exceptional whale watching opportunities, there's a beach in Colombia for you.<h4>Enjoy stunning beaches and great nightlife in Santa Marta</h4>Some of the most famous beaches in Colombia can be found in the resort town of Santa Marta. From the sweeping white sands of Rodadero to the quaint bay of Taganga, visitors can relax on the beach by day and party at great bars late into the night.<h4>Unplug in Parque Tayrona</h4>Not far from Santa Marta is the legendary <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3651-parque-nacional-natural-tayrona/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3651-parque-nacional-natural-tayrona/">Tayrona National Park</a>, where a number of fine beaches can be enjoyed. They are quieter and wilder than the main town’s beaches, and have lush forests of the national park just behind.<h4>Walk on the white sands of Playa Blanca</h4>A little further west along the Caribbean coast is the popular Playa Blanca, named for its pure white sands. Visitors are drawn here by the powdery sand and azure waters, and for a memorable way to arrive, take the boat from nearby <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3475-cartagena/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3475-cartagena/">Cartagena</a>.<h4>Whale watching in Bahia Solano</h4>The northwest Pacific coast of Colombia offers excellent whale watching opportunities, making it a prime destination for wildlife lovers. One of the best places to do so is Bahia Solano, where whales are regularly spotted from June through October.<h4>Discover the unique island of San Andres</h4>Part of Colombia but geographically closer to Nicaragua, the idyllic <a href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3483-san-andres/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.evaneos.com/colombia/holidays/places/3483-san-andres/">island of San Andres</a> sits in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its coral reefs, it is a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Plus, it has a distinctive Caribbean island culture.<h3>Tips for planning a beach vacation in Colombia</h3>When planning a beach vacation to Colombia, it’s worth remembering that&nbsp;the country is vast. Though&nbsp;it can take some time to get between the popular beaches here, it is incredibly rewarding&nbsp;to travel to different parts of the country—each coastline has its own appeal and offers a unique experience.

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Désert de Tatacoa Vacations

Désert de Tatacoa: How to get there?

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