Nestled in the heart of South America, Colombia is celebrated for its warm-hearted people, lively culture, and lush, tropical landscapes. If you're planning a visit, knowing some interesting tidbits can enrich your cultural understanding and elevate your appreciation of the local experiences. Here are 10 fun facts about Colombia that are sure to spark your curiosity and inspire your adventure.
The enchanting Cocora Valley is home to the world’s tallest palm trees, known as wax palms. These impressive trees reach heights of up to 60 meters (197 feet), creating a stunning landscape that looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. With their dramatic presence, they make for an incredible backdrop for photos.
In addition to their visual splendor, wax palms are significant in Colombian culture as the country’s national tree.
Colombia is renowned for producing some of the finest emeralds in the world, accounting for around 70–90% of the global supply. The country’s emerald mines, especially in Muzo and Chivor, produce stunning gemstones known for their rich color and clarity. Colombian emeralds are highly sought-after and are often considered the best in terms of quality.
Colombia holds the title of the second-largest flower exporter in the world. With its diverse climate and rich soils, the country produces a stunning variety of flowers, from roses to orchids and tropical blooms.
The Flower Festival (Feria de las Flores) in Medellín, held every August, brings this floral abundance to life with spectacular parades and live music. The festival transforms the city into a colorful wonderland, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Colombia is the birthplace of magical realism, a literary genre that blends the extraordinary with the mundane. This captivating style was notably popularized by Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel García Márquez through his iconic novel, "One Hundred Years of Solitude."
His writing vividly captures Colombian life, embedding magical elements within everyday situations and providing readers a glimpse into the rich layers of Colombian culture.
Although Colombia is the world's third-largest coffee producer overall, it ranks highest in the world for Arabica coffee beans. Each year, the country produces approximately 13 million green bags of coffee, each weighing about 60kg, exporting them globally.
This dedication to Arabica beans, known for their superior flavor and aroma, cements Colombia's status as a powerhouse in the coffee industry. It also reflects the nation’s commitment to quality over quantity.
Colombians have an adventurous palate, especially when it comes to ice cream! Beyond classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla, you’ll find adventurous varieties such as lulo (a tropical citrus fruit), arequipe (dulce de leche), and aguacate (avocado) ice cream.
Colombia is home to 102 different indigenous groups, each with its own unique culture, language, and traditions. This cultural diversity is celebrated through festivals, music, and art, making Colombia a rich tapestry of indigenous heritage.
Colombia is rich with folklore and legends, adding an air of mystery to its landscapes. One particular tale features El Moñeco, a spirit believed to guard the forests and rivers. Locals often leave offerings of food and gifts to appease this guardian.
Cali, Colombia, proudly claims the title of the "Salsa Capital of the World." The city pulses with energy, featuring a salsa dancing scene like no other. Salsa clubs and outdoor plazas come alive with music and dance, where locals display their incredible skills and passion for this vibrant art form.
In Colombia, the concept of time is often more relaxed compared to many other cultures. While meetings and events have scheduled times, it’s common to experience “la hora colombiana,” which refers to a laid-back approach to punctuality. People may arrive late, and social interactions are prioritized over strict adherence to schedules.
A reliable internet connection is important when traveling in Colombia for navigation, messaging, and booking activities. eSIMs offer a convenient solution, allowing you to stay connected without the need for a physical SIM card.
Below is a comparison of Colombia's leading eSIM providers, outlining their advantages and disadvantages.
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
| Holafly |  | Unlimited data, easy activation | No hotspot sharing capability, pricey | From $7.90 |
| Maya Mobile |  | Unlimited data plan, wi-fi hotspot | No app, no calls | From $4.50 |
| Airalo |  | Easy activation process, reliable coverage | No unlimited data option, unreliable customer service | From $4.50 |
See also: Pocket Wifi in Colombia: What are the best options?
Colombia's national sport is tejo, a traditional game that involves throwing iron weights at a target filled with gunpowder, which explodes upon impact. It’s a popular pastime, often enjoyed in social settings with friends and family.
The #1 tourist attraction in Colombia is the historic city of Cartagena, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant streets, and rich history. The walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws visitors for its charming atmosphere and stunning Caribbean coastline.
Colombia is special for its incredible biodiversity, offering a range of ecosystems from lush rainforests to beautiful beaches. It is known for producing some of the finest coffee in the world, its lively culture and festivals, rich music heritage, and diverse indigenous communities.
One of the most famous people from Colombia is Shakira, an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and dancer known for her hit songs and unique style. Other notable figures include actor Sofia Vergara and Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel García Márquez.
Colombia's national dish is bandeja paisa, a hearty platter that typically includes rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón (fried pork belly), plantains, a fried egg, and avocado. This dish originates from the Antioquia region and showcases the country’s diverse culinary influences.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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