10 Things to do in Colombia with Children - Our Top Picks
Colombia is a country full of adventure and wonder, offering families a diverse range of activities to enjoy together. From historical exploration and wildlife encounters to beach relaxation and outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone to discover. Whether you’re hiking up mountains, relaxing by the sea, or learning about local cultures, Colombia promises an unforgettable experience for every member of the family.
1. Explore the Walled City of Cartagena
Step into the past as you wander through the historic streets of Cartagena's old town. The vibrant architecture, colourful buildings, and cobblestone streets provide an engaging experience for children. Visit the impressive Castillo de San Felipe for a taste of history, where children can explore tunnels and ramparts while learning about the city's fascinating past. The lively atmosphere, with street performers and local artisans, adds to the excitement, making it a fun as well as educational.
2. Ascend Mount Monserrate in Bogotá
A visit to Mount Monserrate offers more than just breathtaking views of Bogotá. The journey to the top is really fun take the cable car or funicular, which adds an element of adventure. Once at the summit, children will be mesmerised by the panoramic vistas of the sprawling city below. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities to take part in, including visits to a beautiful church, picnics in the gardens, and the opportunity to try delicious local food while taking in the spectacular scenery.
3. Visit the Coffee Triangle (Eje Cafetero)
The lush region of the Coffee Triangle is a wonderful destination for family exploration. Children will love learning about Colombia’s coffee culture with hands-on experiences at local coffee farms. They can see the process of coffee production, from picking the beans to roasting them, and even try their hand at harvesting. In Cocora Valley, a stunning natural wonder home to towering wax palms, you can hike through lush forests, with children enjoying the chance to run through the valley and marvel at the world’s tallest palm trees.
4. Experience Parque del Café
Located in the heart of the Coffee Triangle, Parque del Café is an ideal destination for a fun and educational day out. The theme park offers a perfect mix of thrilling amusement rides, including roller coasters and water rides, alongside exhibits about coffee cultivation and its significance in Colombian culture. Enjoy exciting attractions while learning about the country’s coffee heritage, making it a great spot for both relaxation.
5. Discover Medellín's Parks and Plazas
Medellín is a city filled with beautiful parks and public spaces, ideal for family outings. Parque Explora, with its interactive science exhibits and captivating aquarium, is particularly popular with children. They will love the hands-on learning experiences, from exploring marine life to participating in fun experiments. Additionally, Parque de los Deseos and the Jardín Botánico offer ample space for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors, while cultural performances and art displays keep children entertained.
6. Explore Guatapé and Climb La Piedra del Peñol
A short drive from Medellín, Guatapé is a colourful, charming town that captures the essence of Colombia. Families can explore the colourful streets before heading to La Piedra del Peñol, where a climb of 708 steps leads to panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The climb itself is a fun challenge for children, and the view from the top is an unforgettable reward for the whole family. The combination of cultural exploration in Guatapé and physical activity at La Piedra del Peñol makes for a perfect family adventure.
7. Visit Tayrona National Park
For families who love nature and the beach, Tayrona National Park is a must-visit. The park offers a stunning mix of golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and hiking trails that lead through tropical rainforests. Children can enjoy swimming in the calm waters or exploring the jungle paths, where they may spot local wildlife such as monkeys and birds. Tayrona provides the perfect balance of relaxation on the beach and outdoor adventure for active families.
8. Experience Bogotá's Ciclovía
Jordan is full of references to Lawrence of Arabia and his time there, but Qasr al-Azraq is the castle 100km east of Amman that he made his Headquarters during the Arab revolt in 1917-1918. This is also the castle that he references in his book ‘Seven Pillars of Wisdom’. Whilst these Lawrence of Arabia stories might appeal more to the adults in the family, the opportunity to explore the ramparts and play hide and seek in the ruined stone buildings of the castle will certainly appeal to your little adventurers.
9. Explore the Amazon Region
For families with older children, a trip to the Amazon region in Leticia offers a rare and exciting opportunity to immerse in the world’s largest rainforest. Children can learn about biodiversity while experiencing the unique flora and fauna of the Amazon, including spotting exotic animals like pink river dolphins and sloths. A boat tour along the Amazon River allows families to visit Indigenous communities, where children can learn about traditional ways of life, making it an enriching experience for young explorers.
10. Relax on San Andrés Island
If you're looking for some downtime on a beautiful beach, San Andrés Island is the perfect spot. With its warm, turquoise waters and soft, sandy beaches, it’s an ideal place for swimming, snorkelling, and other water sports. The shallow waters are perfect for younger children, while older kids can enjoy more adventurous activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with the island’s clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, offers a peaceful yet fun family retreat.
We know that making the most of your time on holiday is so important, to talk to us about designing the holiday that best suits your family you can call us on 0118 336 0363 or email us at info@littlepeoplebigadventures.com and we would be delighted to help you.