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Find the inspiration you need on World Environment Day from Colombians dedicated to environmental conservation and eco friendly projects.
Words like conservation, eco friendly and environmental change are no longer foreign to our vocabulary. For many, it is important to keep these in mind and try to live up to them: do what we can do to protect the environment. For others, the current state of environmental degradation is enough to feel troubled about finding ways to help the environment or be eco friendly. How does it feel for you? On June 5th we celebrate World Environment Day. This date was declared by the United Nations (UN) in 1972 and has been celebrated since 1974. It’s an occasion to bring together communities, organizations and governments from all around the world to advocate for environmental protection. Aimed to prevent, halt and reverse the deterioration of ecosystems, this decade (2021-2030) is crucial to help restore the ecosystems that sustain life on earth -our own included. Colombia is the second-greatest biodiverse country in the world, and many Colombians are acting on environmental conservation. From community composting initiatives to cycling around the country raising awareness on endangered species. Here are 6 Colombians you can feel inspired by when it comes to environmental protection.
Imagine a forest: big, leafy bushes, animals and insects everywhere. An extraordinary ecosystem where you can breathe in the fresh air. This doesn’t mean the absence of waste such as rotten fruit, animal droppings, decomposing wood and even animal remains. The image of all these things going back to the soil was the key for Guillermo’s Silva Perez innovation on organic recycling by compacting waste. The forest, as you may guess, covers up the waste with tree leaves. For more than three decades now, Silva has been sharing his invention: the digester bales. Although he’s been promoting organic recycling in digester bales since 1989, the process took a sprint and grow significantly when he came in contact with networks of urban gardeners in Medellín and Bogotá around 2015. Nowadays, people in these cities gather periodically in events at their closest park or urban green spots to take care of their own organic waste. As a result, tons of organic waste is processed locally in a clean and joyful process. The digester bale is a block where food waste gets covered with tree leaves and garden waste in equal proportion. Using a mold to shape the block, youngsters and adults jump and dance on top, compacting the bale. With this technique, organic waste is isolated from oxygen, and instead of rotting, gets decomposed by all the recycling organisms that live in the soil and naturally enter the block. Working on a size smaller than 500 kg by cubic meter, the digester bale regulates its temperature and does not pollute the place where it lays for around 6 to 8 months before it can be “harvested”.
By keeping it simple and small, this Colombian creation has been spreading in the Americas, from Patagonia to Canada. The contagion effect -explains Silva- comes when people understand that the digester bales can decompose waste with sanity and compose communities with dignity. Among the different processes for composting organic waste, this one is the least work-intensive and the cleanest. As it doesn’t require flipping or any other maintenance, cleaning workers or volunteers are not exposed to pollution. With the digester bales, action is taken before organic waste gets turns into trash. Hundreds of groups in an equal number of neighborhoods are avoiding sending their waste to local landfills, instead standing in solidarity with those neighborhoods affected by decades of mistreatment of solid waste.
Set upon the surroundings of Bogota’s landfill “Doña Juana”, an eco friendly alternative was created among the people who best understand the consequences of waste pollution. Sineambore is the spanish acronym for the organization lead by Sonia Osorio. She was the founder of the initiative that started as a small co-op and has grown to provide services for over 800 families on Ciudad Bolivar, south of Colombia’s capital city: Bogota. Osorio and other associates, who have been working as waste pickers or “recyclers” as they are called locally, followed their ancestors collecting food scraps to create soil fertilizer. With their knowledge collecting and managing recyclable materials, the association was a step away from fully introducing an alternative to the landfill that has changed more than the landscape they live in. They collect and process organic waste and teach others how to start composting and how to compost at home. Osorio explains that Sineambore’s effort is mitigating the environmental impact of organic and inorganic waste while supporting those who make a living collecting, sorting, recycling and selling recyclable materials. Recyclers’ work is invaluable and generates benefits for everyone as it helps to achieve high recycling rates. As the saying goes: Recycling without waste pickers is trash.
World Tapir Day is on April the 27th. This mammal, living in the rainforest and paramo ecosystems, is considered a forest gardener. Their charisma and crucial role in the sustainability of the ecosystem as an “umbrella species” have transformed the Tapir into a symbol for environmental conservation. Paulo Quintero is a conservationist dedicated to raising awareness on the vulnerability of the Tapir, and the need to protect and restore the environment it belongs to. Not surprisingly, the bicycle is Quintero’s preferred tool on his mission. For years, he’s been cycling through Colombia promoting the “Biodiversity road”, a project that reaches communities sharing the sympathy for the Tapir as a gateway door to environmental education. The bicycle isn’t just his means of transport, it has enough space to move around as a mobile environment classroom. When asked about his efforts cycling towards Tapir protection, Quintero vows to the bicycle as the natural eco friendly ally for the quest. If anything, cycling is among the first answers when you start considering how to reduce your carbon footprint. For Quintero, education about the Tapir can help to protect other important species – maybe even more popular ones- such as bears and jaguars, hence the umbrella metaphor. But there is also much to do regarding research on the Colombian Tapir’s population. He continues creating opportunities to talk with kids of all ages about how to help the environment. The starting point being whenever they choose and the motto being “Conservation on wheels”.
Natalia Acuña is a part of the research team awarded on Green Latinoamerica Award (2020) on the water category for the project Ficosucre. This Colombian initiative is working for the decontamination of the water ecosystem on San Benito Abad, in the Colombian Caribean, and Acuña received the prize at an online ceremony on behalf of the team. The awarded prize on the water category recognizes innovative processes to restore contaminated water and help building the resource availability for communities. Ficosucre utilizes microalgae to aid in water decontamination. The microalgae have been successful in cutting organic contamination on the basin of the Grande de Corozal stream to half, and reducing harmful bacteria by 90% on the swamp of Santiago Apóstol. The Green Latinamerica Award recognized how this initiative applies the UN agenda to the Sustainable Development Goals. Ficosucre won after competing among more than two thousand projects on eco friendly iniciatives, coming from 25 countries. Thanks to a partnership of universities, governmental agencies and private companies with the local community, Ficosucre built the biggest phycoculture plant for cultivating these particular microalgae in Latin America.
After building a gratifying career in tennis, Santiago Giraldo moved his focus from sports to environmental conservation. Linking sports with nature was a way for Giraldo to turn towards a life worth living. Recognizing the privilege of Colombia’s environment, and inspired by childhood memories on the Coffee Cultural Landscape, the Colombia Country Brand ambassador is now creating spaces for environmental conservation. Giraldo is promoting conservation on four sites on the coffee triangle involving eco-tourism infrastructure. These promising spots take advantage of the proximity to the National Park Los Nevados (or Snow-Capped Mountain National Park) and the Otún river basin. Nueva Gaia, La Castalia, Ayni, and La Providencia will be wonderful places to share experiences on conservation and soil decontamination, and even enjoy activities like bird watching, hikes and other eco friendly plans. There will be also space allowing quietness and reconnection with nature. For Giraldo, it’s important to allow ourselves to learn how to be more eco friendly. This also implies being aware of the human impact on the environment. A change in our understanding of the environment is connected with the evolutions of words and concepts we use in referring to it. This is why Giraldo speaks about the environment being part of us. Another clue is to stop listening to the narratives announcing that is too late to restore and stop environmental degradation. We can start new and challenging passions at any stage of life. At this stage we will be entering the decade to make things better on the planet we belong to.
Julia Miranda Londoño has dedicated her life to environmental conservation. She is the first Colombian to be awarded in the 2021 Frankfurt Conservation Awards. After nearly 17 years leading National Parks, the institution in charge of the Natural Parks and Protected Areas in Colombia, Miranda was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. This is the most important category in the Frankfurt Conservation Awards. Miranda is a leader who helped coordinate the declaration for eight new protected areas: Orito Ingi Andi, a sanctuary for fauna and flora between the Nariño and Putumayo departments Florencia Jungle, in the Andean mountain range of Caldas department Serranía de los Yariguíes at Santander Uramba Bahía Málaga at the pacific coast in the Valle del Cauca department Yaigojé Apaporis at the Amazonas region between the Amazonas and Vaupés departments Volcanic Complex Doña Juana – Cascabel, at the south between Nariño and Cauca departments Acandí-Playón-Playona, in the Darien Gulf in Choco department and finally Bahía Portete - Kaurrele, at the Colombian Caribbean in the department of La Guajira. Such effort has benefitted several of the country's key ecosystems. Miranda has stated that there is indeed a bright future when we all act on behalf of human’s better nature. She explains that we need to develop a true sense of compassion towards others. Not only human beings or animals and fauna, but also towards the forest and rivers we live with. There are many talented Colombians that can inspire you to take action on environmental issues. Learn from them how to be more eco friendly. Related articles: Six Colombians who are world-renowned for their work in Natural Science Five trees that support Colombia’s stunning biodiversity Colombia’s Diverse Mountain Climates
If you’re into Latin rhythms, then you’re definitely into Colombian dances. Discover our cultural heritage with the most popular music genres that have even made it to the Super Bowl!
The world celebrates International Dance Day every year on April 29th, a tradition that started in 1982. This date honors the creator of modern ballet Jean-Georges Noverre’s birthday and aims to celebrate the art form of dance that crosses all political, ethnical and cultural barriers. The ultimate goal? To bring people together through the common human language of dance. Our country is no stranger to this message, as we are known as “the land of the thousand rhythms”. We embrace our cultural heritage, recognizing 1,025 folk rhythms grouped into 157 different genres and their dance expressions. Our blend is a mixture of Spanish influences, with indigenous sounds and African beats. Colombian music is an invitation to dance, to connect with ancient roots and let the rhythm flow through your body. You may have witnessed this at the 2020 Super Bowl’s halftime show, as JLo and Shakira showcased the champeta challenge, the Mapalé, and Colombian salsa dances performed by the Swing Latino dance company.
Much of the popularity of being recognized as a great dancer comes from reputable dance academies. These dance studios travel all over the world to showcase the best moves of every Colombian dance. Some are more focused on regional rhythms mixed with contemporary ballet, while others focus on emerging dancing styles and techniques. The most famous are:
Other academies with notable recognition include Corporación Pazcífica, Chocó to Dance, and ConCuerpos, among others.
Now that you know about our dance academies, discover the Colombian dances you should practice for this upcoming International Dance Day!
The cumbia is a musical rhythm and a folkloric dance blend between European, African and indigenous cultures. It is the most representative in the country, and was popularly introduced by famous Colombian composer Lucho Bermúdez in 1946. It dates back to the colonial times in the Caribbean region. Some see in cumbia the mythical personification of a king named Cumbé. It is a beautiful dance in which a man in a traditional all-white peasant garment with a red scarf and regional sombrero mimics a courtship ritual to a woman wearing a long white and red skirt and a bolero blouse with carnations or roses on her head. The couple dances in circles to the rhythms of flutes, drums, and African and Indigenous percussion instruments.
This is another typical dance of the Caribbean region, widely spread nationally and internationally due to its popular moves where men and women dance without touching, convulsively to the beat of frenzied drums. The Mapalé dance represents the work of man in fishing, where the dancers evoke the movements of the fish flapping out of the water trying to survive, and those of other animals in the fisherman's environment. Its name comes from the fish species Cathorops mapale. This Colombian dance represents the strength of the Africans during colonial times when the community gathered to express their cultural heritage with chanting and drums. This dance manifests notions of resistance, an important art form to be remembered this International Dance Day.
Although salsa is not originally from Colombia, we have managed to infuse this popular Latin dance with our very own flavor. Salsa arrived to our country from the port of Buenaventura, in the Pacific Region. From the moment the first salsa vinyl record arrived here, the Colombian salsa revolution was underway, eventually, eventually making its way through Cali and Barranquilla. It wasn’t long before Caleños decided to create their own Colombian salsa with bands like Grupo Niche and Guayacán. Naturally, this evolution led to a change in the salsa dancing steps which are very different from regular salsa. This Colombian dance has to be performed with a lot of agility, especially from the waist down, considering that the feet move so fast it appears they have casters underneath. It is a very passionate dance filled with musical flavor, where the man leads and the woman gets carried away. Caleños dance with such feeling and flow that there are more than 100 Colombian salsa dancing academies, with Cali being known as ‘The Salsa Capital of the World’ as some of the most important international competitions are held in this city.
This is one of the most representative musical and choreographic expression of Colombian folklore, combining indigenous rhythms and European sounds that resemble the polka and other dances from Basque origins. The Bambuco was born in the Andean region and was widely spread throughout the country. It is a couples dance with brief tender moments of contact between the dancers. This Colombian dance is also a flirtatious game as the couple always moves in suggestive gestures. The man shyly pursues her and the woman responds with naive flirtation. The woman is dressed in an extensive long skirt to enhance her theatrical movements and emphasize the flight of her skirts, similar to a can-can style. Both flex the feet to execute a jumping dance and recreate a scenic figuration, and men take off their hats as a courtship gesture. The main instruments of the Bambuco are the tiple (small 12-string guitar), guitar and bandola (flat-backed lute).
The word Joropo, refers to the act of gathering to play music, sing and dance. It is a cultural heritage from the Spanish fandango which was popular during festive occasions, when men and women from a higher rank used to play the harp, vihuela and guitar, recalling old trovadas. It is the main Colombian dance in the Colombian eastern plains also known as Los Llanos Orientales. The choreography is similar to the European waltz, where the couple is holding onto their partner one moment, and then separates again to perform a move with their feet. This step simulates sweeping the floor, followed by dancing styles that resemble flamenco stomping. Now that you know about the best Colombian dances to celebrate this International Dance Day, we hope you try them yourself soon! Related articles: The top 10 places to learn to dance in Colombia The Sound of Music: Traditional Colombian instruments Meet Toto La Momposina: A Colombian Music Icon
Handmade jewelry in Colombia has become more popular in recent years, discover some of the best brands and the inspiration behind them.
The history of Colombian jewelry is a big part of the cultural identity of our country, as can be seen in The Gold Museum in Bogota. This institution's purpose involves the conservation and exhibition of pieces of goldsmith and pottery from indigenous cultures of the pre-Columbian period. With more than two thousand years of development, the inheritance of the Quimbaya, Calima, and Tayrona cultures among others represent the importance of Colombian goldsmithing. Some of the techniques to produce ancient Colombian Jewelry involved hammering, lost wax casting, and filigree. The knowledge and tradition that have survived over the centuries has led to the development of several unique jewelry brands that mix these pre-Columbian styles, techniques and inspiration to produce outstanding high-quality pieces that sell worldwide. With Valentine’s Day around the corner and jewelry being one of the most beloved gifts, we would like to recommend some Colombian jewelry brands, as their treasures are the best couple gifts ideas for this special occasion.
After more than 10 years working on her first jewelry brand, Maria Isabel Cardona, the founder and Creative Director of LaSierra Jewelry, decided it was time to strike for something bigger and bolder. Thus, the brand was born, producing pieces that are designed and handcrafted by master artisans. Their unique combination of textures and colors are the result of creative techniques used in the crafting process. A lot of the inspiration used to create these pieces is taken right from nature, in its organic shapes with a unique flair for mixing geometric silhouettes, delicate elements and a versatile color palette. Their unique handmade jewelry aims to be worn by an authentic free-spirited woman with a high sensibility for art. Without a doubt a piece of this brand is one of the best gifts when celebrating a feminine and self-confident woman. LaSierra is a Colombian jewelry brand that celebrates multicultural heritage, something reflected on each piece where the past meets the present through a mix of ideas, intuition, and creativity at the hands of master Colombian goldsmiths.
When Mercedes was a child, she used to create her own treasures with clay, glass, wool and wood. Today, she has over 20 years of experience representing Colombian roots through handmade jewelry. This accessories and jewelry brand sells products that tell stories, carry a message, and support the work of the Colombian artisans who are masters of their craft to create unique colorful pieces. Thanks to her “family” of more than 50 collaborators who work in her “home” La Casa de Mercedes (Mercede’s House), the workshop in Bogotá, Colombia where magic becomes reality, her products have reached more than 19 markets in America, Europe, the United Kingdom and Asia, and have even been worn by Katy Perry! A lot of Mercedes’ inspiration comes from Colombia, specifically our biodiversity and the carnivals, fairs, and festivals among the places to visit in Colombia. Her statement-earrings are the perfect fun piece to wear. Some of her most famous collection pieces are her earrings shaped like Colombian birds and flowers. Her charms are also some of the best couple gift ideas to make for a special and Happy San Valentine's day.
This Colombian Jewelry brand is an artisanal heritage from Mompós (or Mompóx), representing Colombian fauna and flora in geometric structures combined with filigree ornamental filling. Each jewel recreates the colonial and indigenous roots with contemporary and youthful touches where the septum, piercing, earcuffs, and earrings turn into avant-garde pieces with a touch of elegance. The purpose of Diana Quintero, the founder and creative designer behind the brand, is to integrate the ancestral value of craftsmanship into a personalized, symbolic and luxurious product. The brand is clearly inspired by the biodiversity of the country with statement pieces that depict the Jaguar and flamingo worked with high detail and precision. The purpose behind these small sculptures is to deliver a little piece of Colombia in every corner of the world. The beautiful filigree pieces have been featured in famous fashion magazines like Vogue and Bazaar, in Thailand where the septum is a popular piercing. Their unique jewelry pieces are another great idea for gifts this Valentine’s day.
Bamboleira is a Colombian jewelry and accessories brand founded in 2015. It was founded by Natalia Sánchez, an industrial engineer, who decided to create authentic pieces that honor the legacy of indigenous artisan communities in Latin America. Driven by her creativity and supporting local talent, she found that indigenous manufacturing embodies the heart of Colombian culture, and unique ancestral techniques could be represented in handmade jewelry, especially within the Wounaan Nonan Naan, a community from the Colombian Pacific region. Using an ancestral technique born in the middle of Colombia’s Pacific jungle (where the raw material for making handicrafts is found), the Wounaan Nonan Naan community extract the fiber from the palm, which is the base to make vases, trays and vessels with figures that alluded to situations of daily life, images of the past, beliefs or elements of nature. Today, thanks to the alignment of visions between the community and the concept of the brand, they use these fibers to create unique jewelry. More than 20 mothers, the head of household, are in charge of giving life to Bamboleira's creations. Each piece is made with the finest threads, obtained from the werregue palm and painted by hand with the colors that characterize the brand. So behind each product, are countless hours of work that reflect their talent and dedication. Take this Colombian jewelry brand into account when thinking of the best gifts to give someone for a happy San Valentine’s day.
Nature’s wealth, what symbolizes the balance between cause and effect, beauty, and indigenous Colombian identity are all elements that have been ever-present in Paula Mendoza’s designs since she created her brand in 2003. Years of dedication to master the craft through continuous work with local artisans has allowed her to preserve pre-Columbian history through unique jewelry pieces. Her artwork has been worn by celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Beyoncé and Rihanna. She is also co-founder of Looking for the Masters initiative, a project that works with artisans and indigenous communities to preserve the ancient Colombian goldsmith craft. Her expertise in Colombian jewelry has led her to recently be included as part of Forbes's creatives 2020. Her collections are created with an innovative and careful combination of natural elements and precious metals, achieving designs that have acquired great recognition and prestige. Some of them have even been featured in the worldwide cosmetics brand Maybeline’s campaign. The production of these handmade jewelry pieces is carried out by local jewelers in a workshop located in the traditional La Candelaria sector in downtown Bogotá. Consider this jewelry brand when selecting the perfect gift this Valentine’s day. Discover Colombia through the beautiful work of these brands and designers, and keep their innovative view on pre-Columbian goldsmith in mind as you search for the perfect present to complement a Happy San Valentine’s day. Related articles: Missoma jewelry latest collection “Momposina” is inspired in Colombia and the ancient technique of filigree 5 Colombian designers, international trendsetters Colombia’s most original gifts
Colombian people have a remarkable talent for creative innovations, and in the last few years the number and types of patents made in Colombia has increased.
Colombia has set a goal to become a hub of creative innovations and technological development, and this has gradually become a reality. The number of patents applications and concessions being filed has increased over the past decade, boosting the country’s social and economic development. Where do most of these innovative solutions come from? From the talent of Colombian people and, of course, the alliances between the academy and the productive sector. The majority of these Colombian patents belong to the mechanical industry, followed by chemical processes, medical and pharmaceutical sciences, biological, electricity and electronics industries.
Discover famous patents created by Colombian people? Here are 5 of the most renowned!
Salomón Hakim Dow was a Colombian neurosurgeon, researcher and inventor, mostly known for inventing the valve that treats Hydrocephalus patients called ‘Hakim Valve’. He improved and developed it with the capacity to regulate the CSF pressure, becoming much safer. This Colombian patent was one of the first, and it was introduced to the medical community in 1966.
Adriana Solano and Miguel Uribe, Colombian Industrial Designers are the creators of one of the most useful and innovative products for those who have lost their leg above the knee. It is a prosthesis that makes easier for them to climb or down stairs, and allows them to bend their limb.
Collecting fruits from the treetop is now much easier thanks to a rotational tool created in Colombia. María Gissela Duque and Jorge Andrés Pérez created this incredible Colombian patent that decreases the excessive human force and manipulations that lead to mistreatment of trees, as well as mechanical injuries and even loss of fruits, which has affected the level of productivity and quality in the past.
Rappi, a startup smartphone app from Colombia that aims to make shopping easier. It was created by Simón Borrero, Sebastián Mejía and Felipe Villamarín, and has patented its platform as Grability in Colombia. It is mainly used for the swiping process during purchases and the back-end platform integrates the app with retailer’s systems. This is one of the most famous patents from Colombia, and it has transformed delivery services in the country.
Alejandro Moreno has patented a flic-based vegan leather made with fique, a natural fiber that grows in the leaves of plants in the genus Furcraea. It’s cheaper than animal leather and, most importantly, it’s eco-friendly. As such, their product is one of the greatest examples of innovation. Alejandro will install a production facility in Itagüí, Antioquia with the capacity to produce three million meters a year, 80% of which will be exported to countries such as Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. Colombian talent will continue to dazzle with creative innovations that improve the quality of human life worldwide, because Colombian people love to share the best with everyone. Related articles: Five new Colombian technological innovations to keep an eye on Five new eco friendly products made in Colombia 5 eco hotels to stay in Colombia and contribute to sustainability
Every corner of the country will greet you with a warm feeling of friendly belonging. Because every little thing Colombians do comes from the heart. Do you want to know why?
Colombia has so many different ways of saying ‘welcome home’! Discover all of them and plan your trip as soon as possible!
During your visit, you’ll experience the true taste of a cup of Colombian coffee, or ‘tinto’ and the immense value our culture places on friendship, family, and closeness. Every taste, every scent, and every sip feels like home as long as you’re sipping on one of the best coffees in the world. You’ll be surprised to see Colombians drink Colombian coffee all day long, because a single cup isn’t enough to start a new day and you’ll need some more to enjoy the rest of it. Ask for a ‘tinto’ (black coffee) or a ‘tinto campesino’ (black coffee with sugarcane), and you’ll understand what Colombian coffee truly is.
Every single one of Colombia’s regions feels perfectly homely. With amazing tourism activities, fairs and festivals, excellent Colombian cuisine and friendly people, Colombia promises an unforgettable experience. There are places such as La Guajira, the Tayrona National Park, Gorgona Island, Bahía Solano and Nuquí, where whales and turtles give visitors and locals an incredible show. Or, take Caño Cristales, the River of Five Colors, where you’ll discover of both Colombia and the world’s most amazing natural wonders.
In Colombia, you’ll make new friends who genuinely care for you. We’ll do anything to make sure you have the best experience, and we’re sure to take some time to share the best of our cuisine, traditions and destinations with you. In every gathering, you’ll be welcomed with a big smile, and at the end of your visit, you’ll get, at the very least, the warmest of invitations to come back as soon as you like.
Thanks to Colombia’s immensely diverse regions, we have numerous festivals and other cultural activities that showcase the best of Colombian heritage to the entire world. Some of the most popular, two of which are listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, are the “Carnaval de Barranquilla” in Barranquilla, the “Carnaval de Negros y Blancos” in Pasto, and the “Festival de las Flores” in Medellin. Let us show you some of our more than 1,000 emblematic rhythms and beats which make us move and dance all night long. You’ll be surprised by the most beloved dance styles, but you should never shy away from learning to dance all of them.
Colombia has a rich and diverse culinary scene, but you’ll be just as surprised with its home cooking. For example, the bandeja paisa, a massive food platter, is absolutely delicious and among its many delicacies, you’ll find arepas (Colombian corn cakes), a basic snack that accompanies most Colombian meals. You must definitely try the different types of soup, and don’t forget about Colombia’s tastiest street snacks, such as empanadas and the wide variety of Colombian desserts.
Did you know that Colombia is the second-most biodiverse country in the world? Well, now you do! It boasts over 50,000 animal and plant species, including exotic animals and a huge variety of orchids. Its privileged geographic location makes it a biodiversity heaven. The country is located in the northern end of South America, along with some islands in the Antilles, and part of Central America, where you will find a wide array of tropical animals and plants. Discover the squirrel monkey, a jewel of the Colombian Amazon jungle, any of its 1,920 bird species (the most on Earth), or the 70-meter-tall Colombian wax palm in the Cocora Valley.
In Colombia you can go from summer sunshine to autumn-like breeze in little over an hour. How is this possible? Its mountainous geography means different regions can have completely different temperatures, and since the country lies right above the Equator, Colombia has no seasons. This is just another enormous privilege waiting for you here. Discover great places to visit to spend your next vacations in Colombia, or even to hold large gatherings and international conventions. Get ready for a warm welcoming everywhere you go!
Yeah, it is. You’ll be surprised to find stores, supermarkets, coffee shops, malls, and drugstores rather close to each other. Most of the time, you’ll find everything at a walking distance and even in the same neighborhood – or the same block! This is something that both visitors and locals love, and it certainly doesn’t hurt to have extremely friendly people at your complete disposal. Explore a new destination, visit this beautiful country, and enjoy its unique experiences and landscapes. You will truly fall in love with Colombia's people, nature, and culture. Related articles: Colombia, the most welcoming country in the world Five of the best places to visit in Colombia that will leave you wondering if you should leave at all What is Colombia known for? Find the answers to these and more questions you’ve always wondered about this amazing country!
If there is one Colombian food the country is famous for, it is without a doubt Colombian arepas. A meal as varied as the biodiversity of our colorful and vibrant country. Discover the significance of Colombian corn cakes and the places they come from.
Arepas are mostly known as corn cakes made out of corn dough or precooked corn flour in a flat circular shape, similar to a pancake. It can be cooked on a grill, fried, or roasted. Most of the time, Colombian arepas are the best companion to other dishes such as Bandeja Paisa or tamales. On the other hand, arepas can also be filled with other ingredients like ground beef, egg or cheese, making it a dish in itself and a real comfort food. The history of corn cakes, or arepas, dates back to the Spanish conquest in the pre-Columbian era when the different indigenous groups harvested corn and made several preparations out of it as they considered it a gift from the gods. Although there are over 40 types of corn cakes in Colombia. Here are the most famous ones in the country.
One of the most famous Colombian arepas you can find is the arepa e’ huevo, pretty much the most representative meal from the Caribbean coast. This arepa is a fried yellow corn cake filled with a whole egg inside. It sounds pretty simple but cooking it requires a great technique from the preparation of the dough to each step of the cooking process. The beauty of it is in its versatility: people can eat it for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner. Any time is good to try this delicacy!
The origins of this famous Colombian arepa are yet unknown. There is a clear dispute between Barranquilla and Cartagena as both cities claim to be the inventors of this delicious corn cake. In the first one, it is known as arepa e’ huevo as it is only stuffed with eggs. In Cartagena, it is known as an empanada (another type of fried corn snack) with an egg and meat. Yet the preparation is the same as only the filling changes. In the end, both are delicious. Without a doubt, it is a very famous meal on the Colombian Caribbean coast, especially for travelers on the road close to Troncal del Caribe, a highway that connects the regions of Atlántico, Magdalena, and Bolívar on the north coast of the country. In the region, the women are the ones who are experts in cooking arepa e huevo. They have inherited the tradition from descendants of women dedicated to the manufacture of arepas. Fruit of the heritage of indigenous corn, Spanish omelets, and African fried foods, this nutritious corn cake has been passed down from generation to generation for almost 200 years and is one of the main sources of food for all the people traveling the road of Cordialidad. This experience is a must for tourists who visit wonderful coastal cities or any part of the country.
Choclo is the Quechua word for “tender corn”, which refers to fresh-picked corn. Therefore, arepa de choclo is the corn cake made with sweet and tender corn, that when mixed with melted butter and eggs forms a batter that is later cooked in small batches over a heated pan. This preparation is similar to that of pancakes. Some variations of arepa de choclo involve splitting the corn cake and putting cheese similar to a sandwich. Other times, different types of cheese like curd, mozzarella or fresh cheese are used to fill it up. This delicious sweet corn cake can be part of a breakfast or can be served with hot chocolate late in the afternoon.
Arepa de choclo is found in all regions of Colombia. However, it is known that it was first noted in the regions of Antioquia, Valle del Cauca, and Risaralda. These regions are close to the Coffee Cultural Landscape, inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2011, a recognition awarded because it stands as an outstanding example of human adaptation to difficult geographical conditions on which hillside and mountain coffee farming are developed. This area is home to a great biodiversity, such as the highest wax palm trees in the world in the Cocora Valley, a habitat also known for its many bird species.
Arepa Boyacense is a thick, rounded, and chunky corn cake prepared with precooked yellow corn flour or dry yellow corn. Other ingredients to prepare the dough include milk, butter, salt, and sugar or panela (molasses) to give it a sweet notorious flavor. It can be cooked on a hot griddle, in a frying pan or wood oven. Similar to the arepa de choclo, it is often filled with curd or fresh cheese. This sweet corn cake is often served as part of a breakfast. It’s also a good snack during the day.
In the central part of the country, the eastern Andean mountain range plays home to the region of Boyacá and a small town called Ramiriquí. Famous for its friendly inhabitants, their archaeological heritage, fertile land for harvesting corn and an invaluable treasured tradition: making arepas boyacenses. The town has one of Colombia’s largest rural areas, surrounded by the beautiful landscape of green mountains and colorful birds where over 6,000 farmers work the land to prepare the flour of the sweet corn cake in a process that lasts up to 8 months. For this reason, every year the municipality celebrates the international festival of “the corn, the sip and the arepa”.
The arepa paisa might seem like the simplest of all the Colombian arepas, which can explain why it goes with everything. It is thin, white and the dough is purely based on corn with bran with no additions, not even salt. For this reason, it is the perfect base for butter, fresh cheese, butter or even hogao (a tomato and onion sauce with spices). On the other hand, they can also be stuffed and cooked over charcoal to keep its distinctive taste. The arepa paisa is an unmissable side to every breakfast in the region, and like the other arepas it can be enjoyed in all the meals of the day.
The second biggest region of Colombia is home to one of the country’s most visited cities: Medellín. A city known for being the most technologically-advanced hub of the country and one of the most innovative cities in the world. The region is also an economic engine of Colombia as many productive activities take place here, from livestock to textiles. The paisas (the people of the region) are famous for being great hosts, hard workers and very innovative individuals. In the mountains of the region, the families prepare the dough by cooking the corn, as there is no place for precooked flour in the preparation of arepa paisa. This dish is not only the support for each family meal of the day but also for their daily income.
Chicharrón, or fried pork rinds, is easily one of the tastiest guilty pleasures of Colombian cuisine. This is why it’s found as a side in many regional dishes such as bandeja paisa. Arepa de chicharron, or arepa santandereana, is a corn cake that includes grounded corn, chicharrón and yucca in the same dough, making them a lot tastier and crunchier. This arepa is also grilled on both sides over medium heat on a grill and is the perfect companion to scrambled eggs, soups or beef.
In the north of Colombia you’ll find the region of Santander, an important place during the fight for the country’s independence. At the same time, a region known for brimming with nature escapes and extreme adventure sports such as rafting, paragliding, speleology in caves, bungee jumping, and more. As a matter of fact, it is the home to the second largest canyon in the world: Cañón del Chicamocha. No wonder why these arepas carry the extra meat you need to pursue all the activities in the region! Now that you know all about the famous colombian arepas, we hope to see you soon here trying #TheBestOfColombia! Without a doubt, Colombia is a country with many wonderful things to discover. In fact, Disney made a movie inspired in Colombia: Encanto. A beautiful show of Colombia's traditions and characteristics that make this country so unique. Click here to know more. Related links: Enjoy a taste of the capital with a Bogota culinary experience tour 10 key ingredients in Colombian cooking Dish of the day a Colombian treat for every day of the week
A country of diverse customs will always greet newcomers and those who visit with a hug.That's why Colombian people love to convey their warmth and joy through friendly greetings like “Quiubo” (“What’s new?”), “Qué más” (“What’s up?”), or “Cómo está”
Look it up in a thesaurus and you’ll find it’s synonymous with warmth, joy and hospitality. But in Colombia, under the dictionary definition of “welcoming” you’ll find much more: its happy people, their customs and, of course, the many colorful Colombian sayings. Colombian people are more than reason enough to believe it, because even if it’s the first time you visit the country, they’ll greet you with a warm “Welcome home”.
The 1982 Nobel Prize in Literature, Gabriel García Márquez, described the way Colombians are in the 1994 Report of the Wise Men, a document in which he lists the natural gifts of Colombian people as: “Creativity, a devastating determination of personal promotion, and an almost supernatural cunning”. These qualities – of great importance throughout the history of Colombia – are joined by another key one: the ability to quickly overcome any circumstance by learning from it, which has resulted in one of the most common Colombian phrases: “echar pa’lante”, which means to move forward no matter what and look towards the future with optimism. This virtue is greatly assisted by a key component of the Colombian DNA: joy, which is reflected not only in their instinctive warmth, but also in all of their customs – from the way they communicate, to the way they greet foreigners. Colombian people are welcoming by nature. Acquaintances, co-workers, and even a stranger that sits next to them in the bus or in the park can easily become their "parcero" (friend).
Colombia is synonymous with “welcome home”. Its people always want to show their visitors, business partners, or even people they’ve just met, all the best the country has to offer, which makes them the best hosts and ideal ambassadors of this warm culture. How do they do it? By welcoming everyone into their homes and hearts, and teaching them their customs, the richness of Colombian music, the unique Colombian flavors and sharing their essence in general: what identifies them and makes them feel proud of their country.
In Colombia, a table for two can just as easily sit six, because, as another Colombian phrase goes, “where two can eat, so can three”, and so on. Which is why Colombian people love to share with newcomers the spectacular flavors that make up the various traditional dishes of each region. With so many different delicious things to try, it’s no wonder they often say, “a full belly is a happy heart”. Thanks to Colombia’s privileged geographic location, Colombian chefs are inspired by countless products from different regions and are always ready to welcome new faces to try traditional dishes such as the ‘bandeja paisa’, ‘ajiaco santafereño’ or the various forms of ‘sancocho’.
It’s often said that music is the universal language, which means that, with over 1,000 rhythms grouped within 150 musical genres, Colombians are ready to communicate with you in countless different ways: through melodies, instruments, and some remarkable dance moves. Some of the most popular rhythms incorporate drums and accordion, and some like salsa and vallenato will fill you with emotion. Their unique structures, sounds and themes don’t just light up Colombia’s many festivals, but also represent a cultural legacy that has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Cumbia, mapalé, joropo, currulao and bambuco are among the most representative musical rhythms of Colombia
Colombian people love to talk and tell great stories, and especially to entertain guests. Colombian cities, beaches, heritage towns, and every corner of the country falls within that vibe that can be felt upon arriving. It’s all thanks to a richness that is not just cultural, but also natural, much like the warmth of Colombians themselves.
Colombia has 50% of the planet's paramos. Half of the country consists of lush rainforests and 35% of its territory lies in the Amazon
This means the most welcoming place on Earth is also the second-most biodiverse, with a great variety of animals, plants and landscapes across the many different climates that remain virtually unchanged year-round. This was one of many reasons why it was ranked the best emerging travel destination in 2020 by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA).
It’s the only country in South America with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, a feature that allows for a remarkable natural variety, as well as different climates
The most welcoming place on Earth, is currently home to eight sites that have been listed as part of the World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. These include the walled city, fortresses and monuments of Cartagena de Indias, the Los Katíos Natural National Park, the Historical Center of Mompox, and the Coffee Cultural Landscape, among others. Visiting and exploring these places will certainly make you want to stay in their incredibly atmosphere. And if you do decide to extend your visit (perhaps indefinitely), Colombian cities like Medellin have an ideal quality of life that partners with a very appealing cost of living. This was highlighted by Forbes, which ranked Colombia among the top ten ideal countries for retirement. This country doesn’t just have historic sites, but also great traditions that have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage. Some of them are part of the most important Colombian festivals, such as the Blacks and Whites Carnival in Pasto, the world-famous Carnival of Barranquilla, and the marimba music and the traditional songs of the South Pacific that can be enjoyed in the Petronio Álvarez Festival.
This is Colombia, the most welcoming place on Earth. Where happy people want to share the very best their country has to offer with all of those who visit. Come and find out just how much Colombians will make you feel at home! Related articles: 5 reasons why you should meet Colombian people Five of the best places to visit in Colombia that will leave you wondering if you should leave it all What is Colombia known for? Find the answers to these and more questions you’ve always wondered about this amazing country!
Colombian art is truly inspiring, and Johnnie Walker, the world´s No. 1 scotch whisky, #BlueLabel, has created a limited edition bottle handmade by Colombian artists.
Johnnie Walker has created a Limited Edition of Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle. The blend of rarest whiskies of different ages and from different distilleries has inspired in Colombia and its water sources to create AGUAS DE VIDA. With the curatorship of Artesanías de Colombia, the Colombian entity that works for the benefit of local artisans and is focused on the promotion of Colombian handcrafts around the world, they have created a limited edition whisky with traditional Colombian techniques. Around 50 Colombian artists have been working on three designs of bottles using different local techniques, each reflecting our nature and cultural richness. They’ve been inspired in Lake Guatavita, located at the northeast of Bogotá, the town of Guatapé, located on the shores of the Embalse Guatapé, Medellín, in northwest Colombia, and La Puerta de Oro, the Atlantic Ocean near the city of Barranquilla.
Under the name #AguasDeVida (waters of life), this Second Colombian Limited Edition whiskey is a tribute to the water resources of the country, designs created by the hands of Colombian artisans from Nariño and Putumayo.
#AguasDeVida is a celebration of what is unique and requires mastery to become a legend, as Colombian art is
Are you wondering what they look like? It’s a pleasure to present each one to you as well as the Colombian artisans’ technique behind this amazing work!
The sacred lake of Guatavita, near Bogotá, was the site of the Legend of El Dorado, where the Indigenous communities worshipped the goddess of water with golden figures. Well, this splendid scenery inspired 860 unique bottles created by a group of Colombian handcraft artisans located in Pasto, Nariño. Using a Colombian art technique called “mopa mopa plated”, a transparent resin from trees of the genus Elaeagia, which grows in mountainous regions of southwest Colombia, an amazing design is creating featuring some of the golden figures from El Dorado. Six artisan workshops from Nariño created this limited edition whiskey.
Guatapé is one of the most colorful towns of Colombia, located 79 kilometers away from Medellín. It enjoys a pretty great view thanks to El Peñol, a big rock that borders a lake and visitors can climb, which inspired 150 unique bottles created by a group of Colombian artists from Pasto, Nariño, as well. This Colombian art piece was made with a technique of “tamo de trigo” which involves painstakingly plaiting and transforming wheat stems into this beautiful work.
Barranquilla, located near the Caribbean Sea, serves as a port for river and maritime transportation with Colombia and is home to one of the most important fairs and festivals of Colombia, the Carnival of Barranquilla. This was the inspiration for 110 unique bottles created by a group of 18 Colombian artists from Valle de Sibundoy, Putumayo. This stunning piece of art was made with chaquiras, a glass bead traditional handmade technique, by Inga and Kamentsá indigenous communities from Colombia.
At first, all of these handcrafts will be displayed in Colombian cities such as Bogotá, Medellín and Barranquilla. Afterward, there’s an interest to auction, sell and export all of this Colombian art to Germany, France, US and the UK. Get to know #TheBestOfColombia with #AguasDeVida, handcrafts that share a legendary story wherever they go! Excessive alcohol is harmful to health. The sale of alcoholic beverages to minors is prohibited. Johnnie Walker Blue Label 40% Alcoholic Volume. Related articles: The Vatican gardens will soon welcome a work of contemporary art from Colombia Gold craftsmanship art treasures you will only find in Colombia The story of artisan behind the mochila bag in Colombia
This young woman from Pereira, Colombia, is the winner of the Freediving International Competitions, and the only woman who has broken her own world record by diving 86 meters, without equipment. She is undoubtedly one of the best representatives of Colombia as well as one of the country’s top influencers.
Her outstanding performance in national and international competitions, including a World Record, along with her promotion of environmental awareness on social media, has positioned her as one of the top influencers in the country.
Sofia is one of few Colombian Instagram influencers with more than 300,000 followers. She is also a brand ambassador for some Colombian brands as well as ambassador of #TheBestOfColombia.
This American fell in love with the country for good. He arrived in Colombia in 2013 and soon he decided to move to Colombia and live here full time. He has traveled to several Colombian cities, getting in touch with Colombian culture more closely, and sharing his experience as an influencer in his social networks.
In 2019, Zach received his Colombian citizenship, a day he described as “the best of his life.” Since then, this Youtuber has promoted Colombia because, as he expresses it, his goal as one of the top influencers of its country is to encourage all people to visit Colombia and try new experiences.
She is one of the Instagram influencers behind one of the accounts highlighted by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2020. Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle chose the account of this Instagram influencer, called Good News Movement, because it reports positive news and shows acts of kindness that are happening in the world.
In addition, the account of this influencer is mostly fed by news sent in by its followers, which exceed 1,5 million. It has also become a favorite account among people who need help, as well as a social media channel to show good news about Colombia.
There are many things to do in Medellín. Its weather, its adjoining villages, its people's warm and its nightlife make it an unmissable destination.
Are you looking for things to do in Medellín? This itinerary proposed by the Viajala team will allow you to fully enjoy your 48-hour stay in the City of the Eternal Spring.
If this is your first time in Medellín, a great way to start your trip is by visiting Plaza Botero. Located in the center of the city, La Plaza is the outdoor public square that exhibits 23 sculptures, donated to Medellín by master artist Fernando Botero. Take the metro to the Parque Berrio station, which is right next to La Plaza.
The famous Antioquia Museum and the Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture are located in the same location. Both spaces are dedicated to art and culture and offer diverse programming for all visitors. After visiting the museums, spend the afternoon in the beautiful Parque Arví, located in rural Santa Elena in the outskirts of Medellin.
To get there, take the metro to the Acevedo station and transfer to the Metrocable. When you arrive at the last stop, transfer to another cable car that goes directly to the park. Enjoy the landscape seen from above. Once in the park, you can choose between visiting the square—where you can find regional products while resting and enjoying the peaceful surroundings—or taking one of the guided tours through the forest and trails. To end your first day, check out the Poblado neighborhood's nightlife and enjoy one of Medellín's best party spots. Visitors are sure to find entertainment that aligns with their tastes due to the wide variety of bars and clubs.
Start the second day of your trip by climbing one of the city’s seven surrounding hills: El Picacho, Pan de Azúcar, El Salvador, La Asomadera, Santo Domingo, El Volador, or El Nutibara. The latter is the most popular of all, as it is an almost exact replica of a traditional Antioquia town. To get there, take the Metro to the Exhibitions station and ask for directions to the path up the hill. No matter which one you decide to visit, enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the Aburrá Valley. Then, spend the afternoon in the northern part of the city. Take the metro to the University station. There you will find the Botanical Garden, Parque de los Deseos, Medellín Planetarium, and the Parque Explora, all a few steps away. If you have enough time, you can visit them all. Otherwise, we suggest Parque Explora, a place that makes science into a fun interactive experience for both children and adults. Additionally, its spectacular aquarium is a must.
Finally, we suggest you take the famous Graffitour. During your visit to Medellín's Comuna 13 neighborhood, you will get to see firsthand the entire transformation process that this area has experienced over time. This was a small sampling of things to do in Medellin over two days. However, the city offers endless activities that will make you want to extend your stay. In addition, we recommend you visit one of its picturesque surrounding towns, such as Guatapé, Jardín, or Santa Fe de Antioquia. You can also visit a silletera flower farm in Santa Elena, go to the El Castillo museum, tour the center on the Ayacucho tram, and spend an afternoon at Parques del Río. Ready to book your trip to Medellín? You may also enjoy: Discover Medellín! Four tourists routes with something for everyone Why is Medellín worth a visit? Experience Medellín, the new hub of innovation