Vacation Rentals in Colombia

The Gem of South America redefines bio diversity as it straddles bleak desert landscapes, aquamarine beaches, cloud forests, and savannahs into its fold. But there’s more to Colombia. The Spanish colonial streets in capital city Bogota are just as enthralling as Cartagena’s stoic ramparts and Medellin’s urban grit. In Colombia, you’ll enjoy a deeply eclectic nightlife, world-famous festivals, and culinary encounters that are second to none. Families with kids, honeymooning couples, and groups of friends will have much to see and do so look up your vacation rentals on Holidu and get those bags packed.

Colombia has quickly gone on to become one of South America’s top holiday destinations thanks to its surreal landscapes, nifty public transportation system, and exceptional hospitality. Holidu rentals are available in almost every main city or region, and several come fitted with useful amenities such as Wi-Fi, swimming pools, air-conditioning, and functional kitchens. Pet-friendly and child-friendly rentals are perfect for large families. Take your pick from rentals in the main cities of Colombia, Cartagena, or Medellin. Waterfront accommodation is the norm if you’re planning to spend time on the Caribbean coast up north, and in the San Marta region. Those keen on learning salsa will find plenty of comfortably furnished rentals in the town of Cali. Plan ahead and book your Holidu rental.

Culture trippers will be spoiled for choice in Colombia. Cosmopolitan capital Bogota stuns the first-time visitor with its backdrop of the frosty Andean peaks. Travelers inevitably land up at the historic downtown La Candelaria quarter replete with museums, colonial buildings, and sunny plazas. Do check out Bogota’s Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) which h0uses over 55,000 pieces of gold from pre-Hispanic cultures. Medellin, the City of Eternal Spring boasts a profusion of museums and parks however the top attraction here is the cable car ride especially post dusk when the city is beautifully lit up. If possible, catch an opera or ballet at Medellin’s historic Metropolitan Theater. Queen of the Caribbean coast, Cartagena, has beguiled visitors since long for its whimsical coral stone ramparts that have stood the test of time – 5 centuries and counting! Bougainvillea-draped v1llas and pretty churches make Cartagena a very photogenic city.

Colombia’s rich tapestry of festivals and events make it an attractive four-season destination. Topping the list is the Carnival of Barranquilla (usually held in February) where masked revelers, dancers, and locals take to the streets until the wee hours. Next is one of South America’s oldest festivals, the Carnival of Blacks and Whites which takes place in Pasto each January. Revelers smear each other’s faces in black and white in a tradition dating to Spanish colonial masters and their slaves. October’s main event is the Tatacoa Festival where you can dance under the desert stars to the beats of local and international DJs. The year ends with the Cali Fair, an extravaganza of horse parades, salsa parties, street food and even athletics.

Colombia is a getaway for foodies thanks to its food preparations that are a mélange of African, Spanish, and indigenous influences. If you’re up north on the Caribbean coast, dig into the coconut rice and fish curry preparations. The Antioquia region’s claim to fame is the hearty Bandeja Paisa breakfast where you’ll be served generous portions of rice, beans, fried egg, beef, plantain, and chorizo on a single plate! The heartwarming sancocho stew featuring meat, plantains, and veggies is a healthy option while the deep-fried empanadas stuffed with cheese, meats or veggies are quite the opposite. Don’t worry though - the country boasts over 30 kinds of exotic fruits and you’d do well to try the Cholao fruit salad – a delicious concoction of shaved ice, milk, syrups, and freshly chopped fruits.

Colombia’s bio-diversity is best experienced at the Tayrona National Park in the Santa Marta region up north. Paradisiacal beaches with crystal clear waters await, as do indigenous v1llages and wildlife endemic to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region. The Valley of Palms in the hamlet of Cocora promises to be a picturesque surprise as you soak in views of towering wax palms set against the Andean foothills. Located in the heart of the Amazonian forest, the Amacayacu National Park earns visitors close encounters with Tikuna settlements, lush tropical forests, and perhaps jaguar tracks too. For scuba diving or snorkeling under excellent conditions, head to Isla Gorgona. A friendly coterie of capuchin monkeys, sloths, seals, turtles, and perhaps even humpback whales await.

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the Lost City trek is South America’s most talked about trek, and you’ll see why! The climb will get you to the archaeological site of an ancient Colombian city accessible by 1200 stone steps. The place is sacred to indigenous tribes so always follow the instructions of your guide.

This is your chance to unwind with some kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding in the pretty town of Guatape. While here, try scaling the 220m high La Piedro rock. The 700+ narrow steps leading to the top are a tad strenuous but you’ll be rewarded with sweeping 360 degree views of the region's emerald-colored islets.

When in Colombia, you’ll see spontaneous salsa breakouts at festivals, street fairs, local markets - everywhere! To learn it, head down to the city of Cali - Latin America’s salsa capital, and hit the nightclubs where locals will gladly show you some intricate kicks and twirls. A professional school is a splendid idea too.

While Salento has numerous coffee farms, try visiting the ones at Filandia, about 35 minutes from Salento by jeep. On your farm tour, you’ll be shown the good and bad beans, and then introduced to the actual coffee making process. Make sure to take h0me a little of this wonderful Colombian souvenir for your friends and family.

Fancy floating on a mud volcano at an altitude of 2300m? The Totumo mud volcano lets you enjoy a mud massage as your skin soaks up over 55 minerals! Then scrub yourself clean at a nearby lake. You're now fully rejuvenated!