Have you wanted to travel to South America but can’t decide which country to visit? Well, Colombia was rated the happiest place in the world as of 2021. Wouldn’t you want to see the happiest place in the world? You can! It’s time to pack up your things and travel to the beautiful area in Colombia. But, before you grab your suitcase and sunglasses, continue to read below for some more interesting facts about Colombia.

Interesting Facts About Colombia

Colombia is a safe, beautiful, and tourist-friendly country. A perfect destination for anyone looking for fun and relaxation. We hope the fun facts about Colombia help entice you to visit sometime soon. Before you travel to Colombia, you can find comprehensive information regarding food, plane tickets, budgeting, and more in our guide. Keep reading for some interesting facts about Colombia!

1. Colombia Has More Than 4,000 Species of Orchids

An interesting fact about Colombia is that it is one of the largest flower producers in the world. 70% of the flowers are imported to the United States. Out of the grand 4,000 orchid species, 1,500 are only found in Colombia, making it a botanist’s dream to research these unique species.

The orchids come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. The most popular shades of orchid are purple, magenta, and pink. An orchid named Cattleya Trianae is the national flower of Colombia, named after José Jerónimo Triana, a Colombian naturalist and botanist.

Colombia’s warm climate creates ideal conditions for the growth of diverse orchids. Being located right on the equator allows these beautiful flowers to flourish. When visiting Colombia, be sure to check out local shops that offer native orchids or explore areas rich in natural beauty.

2. Colombia Is the Second Most Biodiverse Country on the Planet

Another interesting fact about Colombia is its unique geography, positioning it as one of the most biodiverse countries globally, with only Brazil surpassing it. Colombia encompasses parts of the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains and is bordered by the Pacific and Caribbean seas.

Being a tropical location near the equator allows Colombia to serve as a breeding ground for a vast array of flora and fauna. With approximately 60,000 species of plants and animals, nature lovers are guaranteed to marvel at Colombia’s biodiversity.

Moreover, Colombia boasts the highest diversity of bird, butterfly, and amphibian species worldwide, exceeding the combined numbers in North America and Europe. If you are passionate about nature and landscapes, Colombia is the ideal destination for you.

3. Colombia Has 60 National Parks

Colombia’s national parks exhibit a variety of terrains, including forests, aquatic landscapes, mountains, deserts, and more, catering to every nature enthusiast. One prominent national park is Chiribiquete National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as “The Maloca of the Jaguar.” Spanning over 4.3 million hectares, this national park covers the provinces of Orinoquia, Guyana, Amazonia, and North Andes.

The park is home to thousands of species of animals and plants, including many native and threatened species like the jaguar. Chiribiquete National Park is known for its rich heritage, with rock walls displaying ancient paintings dating back to 20,000 BC. Approximately 70,000 figures have been noted on the walls of its rock shelters, creating a captivating historical experience.

In addition to Chiribiquete, fascinating parks include Tayrona National Park, Coral Islands Natural Park, and Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, showcasing Colombia’s rich environmental diversity, inviting endless exploration.

4. Colombia Has Some of the Most Popular Tourist Cities

Colombia is renowned for its diverse and tourist-friendly cities. Cartagena, located on the Caribbean coast, is one of the most popular, known for its rich history and colonial architecture. Despite being a city, its coastal position provides a tranquil atmosphere with various local shops and restaurants.

Another prominent tourist city is Bogota, offering a more commercial vibe with shops, theaters, churches, and schools. Both Cartagena and Bogota are considered among the safest destinations for tourists. Exploring these beautiful cities is essential during your visit to Colombia.

5. More People Speak Spanish Than Spain

With a population exceeding 50 million, the vast majority of Colombians speak Spanish as their primary language. In comparison, Spain has a smaller population of around 47 million and is home to several regional languages like Catalan, Basque, and Galician. While Spanish is the dominant language in Spain, not every citizen speaks it as their first language.

Consequently, due to the high populations of Spanish speakers in Latin America, many countries, including Colombia, have surpassed Spain in the total number of Spanish speakers.

6. Colombia Is Home to the “Liquid Rainbow”

The Caño Cristales river, often called the liquid rainbow, extends for 100 km and undergoes seasonal color changes ranging from red to blue, yellow, orange, and green. This stunning phenomenon is unique to Colombia, adding to its allure.

The vivid colors are a result of the aquatic plant Macarenia Clavigera, which thrives in sunlight, creating the breathtaking hues. However, during droughts or cold seasons, the plant hibernates, resulting in a colorless river. For those intending to visit the Liquid Rainbow, the summertime is the best period for viewing its vibrant colors.

7. Colombia Has the Second Most Celebrated Holiday in the World

Colombia celebrates 18 national holidays annually, with most being religious. Uniquely, the holiday calendar changes every year as it follows the lunar cycle, with exceptions like Christmas, Easter, and Independence Day, which maintain fixed dates.

During these holidays, Colombian law mandates that workers receive a day off. In addition, the entire week is observed for Easter, closing many businesses. Depending on your travel dates, you may experience one of the 18 different holidays.

8. The Colombian National Anthem Plays Twice a Day

According to Colombian law, the national anthem, or Himno Nacional de la República de Colombia, plays at 6 am and 6 pm daily. This practice must be followed by public television and radio stations.

It plays the first chorus verse then repeats. This custom extends to public events, ensuring that every Colombian citizen knows the anthem. Travelers to Colombia will likely find themselves joining in the anthem’s singing, as few countries continue such a daily tradition.

9. Flag of Colombia

The Colombian flag symbolizes national pride, history, values, and aspirations. It consists of three horizontal stripes with colors representing:

• Yellow: The top half symbolizes the richness of the soil and abundant natural resources.
• Blue: The middle stripe symbolizes the two oceans bordering Colombia and the vast sky.
• Red: The bottom stripe represents the courage and resilience of Colombians, along with the bloodshed during the fight for independence.

10. The National Sport of Colombia Is Tejo

Tejo is Colombia’s national sport, akin to bowling. Players throw tejos, weighted disks, at a metal ring containing gunpowder pouches that explode upon impact, making for an exhilarating experience.

This sport can be played solo or in teams, with rules designed for excitement and camaraderie. Points are awarded based on successful strikes, and a tradition exists for the losing team to provide beers for the winners. If you’re seeking thrilling fun, Tejo is definitely for you.

11. Colombia Has Two of the World’s Largest Festivals

Colombia boasts the world’s largest salsa festival, the Feria de Cali, held annually from December 25th to 30th. Dubbed the salsa capital of the world, this festival features grand performances and an array of Latin music.

Additionally, Colombia hosts the largest flower festival in Medellin, showcasing flower exhibitions, parades, and local growers. The festival celebrates Colombia’s biodiversity while presenting stunning flower displays, making it a vibrant cultural event.

12. Colombia Is Number 3 in the World for Coffee

Colombia is world-renowned for its rich coffee, being one of the largest coffee exporters globally. With over 50,000 coffee bean farms, the country offers some of the finest brews available.

Colombian coffee is primarily sourced from 100% Coffea arabica beans, known for their balanced flavor. Ethical harvesting practices, such as “cherry-picking,” ensure the beans’ quality and desirability. Coffee enthusiasts must not miss the chance to experience Colombian coffee culture.

13. Colombia has Two Coastlines

Colombia uniquely features coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, stretching over 3,000 kilometers. It is the only South American country with this distinction.

The Caribbean coast is famous for its warm waters and beautiful beaches, while the Pacific coast presents a dramatic landscape where rainforests meet the sea. This geographical marvel contributes to Colombia’s diverse marine biodiversity and cultural richness.

14. The Lost City is Older Than Machu Picchu

Deep within the Sierra Nevada mountains lies Ciudad Perdida, or the “Lost City,” built around 800 AD and predating Machu Picchu. It was a significant center for the Tayrona civilization and offers breathtaking views of ancient terraced ruins.

Accessible only by a multi-day jungle trek, it remains relatively untouched, providing an authentic archaeological experience for adventurous travelers.

15. One-Third of Colombia is the Amazon Rainforest

One-third of Colombia comprises the vast Amazon rainforest, acting as a biodiversity hotspot home to numerous species and indigenous communities.

Leticia serves as an access point for exploring this remarkable ecosystem, offering boat trips along the Amazon River and vibrant eco-tourism opportunities.

16. Colombia Has Pink Dolphins

The Amazon River is home to the enchanting Pink Dolphin, or “Boto,” known for its unique hue and fascinating stories. Unlike saltwater dolphins, they possess longer snouts and flexible necks, allowing them to thrive in river environments.

Encounters with these captivating creatures have become a highlight for those exploring Colombia’s Amazon region.

17. Colombia is Home to the World’s Tallest Palm Trees

The Cocora Valley is home to the Quindío wax palms, recognized as the world’s tallest palm trees, reaching heights of 60 meters. This surreal landscape makes it a breathtaking destination for photography and nature lovers.

The wax palm is not only iconic but also plays an essential role in Colombia’s ecosystem, making the Cocora Valley a must-visit for those appreciating nature’s beauty.

18. The Lost City of El Dorado is In Colombia

The legend of El Dorado, meaning “The Golden One,” remains one of the most powerful myths rooted in Colombia’s history. Initially referring to a city or king filled with riches, stories of El Dorado have captivated explorers for centuries.

Despite unfulfilled quests for this mythical city, the legend persists, symbolizing humanity’s quest for unattainable desires.

19. Colombia Bans Alcohol During Major Events

The “Ley Seca” or “Dry Law” implemented in Colombia prohibits the sale and consumption of alcohol during significant political events and holidays. This practice aims to ensure public order and promote safer environments.

While the ban may seem peculiar, it is perceived as a responsible measure among Colombians, promoting collective welfare during turbulent times.

20. Colombians Put Cheese on Their Hot Chocolate

In Colombia, hot chocolate is not merely a drink; it’s a tradition that includes the addition of cheese. Small, soft chunks of cheese are often added, melting into the warm beverage for a delightful sweet and salty mix.

This comforting combination typically pairs with local cheese breads, making it a cherished choice among Colombians, especially in cooler weather.

21. Colombia’s National Drink

Aguardiente, meaning “burning water,” serves as Colombia’s national beverage. This anise-flavored liqueur is integral to Colombian celebrations and culture.

Regions across Colombia offer unique versions of Aguardiente, each with distinct flavor profiles, making it a festive and communal drink during events.

22. Bandeja Paisa: Colombia’s National Dish

Bandeja Paisa reflects the hearty culinary heritage of Colombia, originating from Antioquia. This plentiful platter includes ground meat, red beans, rice, chorizo, and plantains, among others, presenting a symphony of flavors.

Each component of this dish contributes to a deep appreciation for Colombia’s diverse food culture, making it not just a meal but a journey through the nation’s palate.

23. Famous Colombians

Colombia is home to many famous personalities, including Shakira, Sofia Vergara, and Juanes, as well as historical figures like Pablo Escobar. Each contributes to the rich tapestry of Colombian culture.

24. Colombia Is a Leader in Emerald Production

Colombia has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the finest emeralds globally. The clear, distinctive green hue and high clarity of Colombian emeralds make them highly sought after.

Local geological conditions contribute to this unique quality, making Colombia’s emerald mines, particularly in Boyacá and Cundinamarca, a significant source of these precious gemstones.

25. Colombia Highs

Colombia boasts the world’s highest coastal mountain range, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, reaching 5,700 meters in just 42 km from sea level. Moreover, Bogota, the capital, is one of the highest capital cities, situated at 8,360 ft above sea level.

Visit Colombia Today

Now that you have read a few fascinating facts about Colombia, you should feel excited to embark on your journey to this remarkable country. Traveling to Colombia promises unforgettable experiences and adventures.

For cycling enthusiasts, Colombia features the Altro de Letras, a 300 km cycling route that elevates to 3,665 meters above sea level, attracting cyclists globally.

Colombia shares borders with five countries:

1. Brazil to the southeast.
2. Peru to the south.
3. Ecuador to the southwest.
4. Venezuela to the east.
5. Panama to the northwest.

Additionally, Colombia features coastlines along the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the north.

Plan Your Trip to South America With These Resources

Travel Planning Resources

If you’re ready to plan your next adventure, utilize these reliable travel planning resources:

Book Your Flights: Find the best flight deals on Skyscanner.

Book Your Hotel: Check prices with Booking.com for Europe and TripAdvisor elsewhere.

Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, visit VRBO.

Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without coverage! We recommend:

• Safety Wing – For occasional travelers.
• Medjet – For global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: To find walking tours, private guides, and more, check out Get Your Guide.

For comprehensive travel resources, visit our Resources Page to discover plenty of trusted companies for your travels.