Why Colombia is the perfect destination for solo travelers

Are you thirsty for adventure? Do you want to explore places off the beaten track, chat with locals as warm as the sun and get lost in breathtaking landscapes?

So, Colombia is THE country that will put stars in your eyes. If you are ready to pack your backpack and go solo, prepare yourself for an incredible experience.

Believe me, I just got back and I still have stars in my eyes.

Colombians, masters of hospitality

One of the first things you'll love about Colombia is the human warmth. Not the heat of the sun (although you'll love that too of course), but the heat of the people. Colombians are ultra welcoming, curious and always ready to lend a hand. Feeling lost in the streets of Cartagena? Ask a local, and you'll almost get a private lesson on the neighborhood. Looking for a place to eat? Expect to be taken to a secret spot you'd never have found on your own. It's almost as if they're determined to make you fall in love with their country.

Plus, since you're traveling alone, you'll have plenty of time to network with locals. There's no better way to experience authentic culture and get off the beaten track. And that's the magic of solo travel: you're forced to interact with people, and each encounter becomes a little adventure in its own right.

Breathtaking landscapes

Colombia is like a huge playground for adventurers. You want to party on heavenly beaches like in San Andres Or Tintipan Island ? Check. You dream of hiking in the jungle of Tayrona Park or climb up to the Lost City (Lost City)? Check. Do you prefer exploring green mountains like Minca , colorful villages and tropical forests? Double check.

As a solo backpacker, you have this total freedom to choose what calls to you. And since you are traveling alone, you can take your time to explore every corner. Want to go off the cuff on a local bus to discover a village off the beaten track? Go!

Colombia offers so many different landscapes that you will be amazed every day. And believe me, every photo you take will be a memorable souvenir of your trip.

A practical infrastructure network for backpackers

Traveling solo means going it alone. But the good news is that Colombia is super well equipped for backpackers. cheap hotels, THE youth hostels, THE hostels or the ecolodges are everywhere. It’s a true paradise for solo travelers: cool places, often in super cool areas and at prices that won’t break the bank. Plus, these places are super friendly, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet other solo travelers like you. Who knows? Maybe you’ll go exploring with a travel buddy you met at the hostel! (True story, this happened to me on a previous trip to Mexico ^^)

And the cherry on the cake? The transport in Colombia are relatively easy to organize. Whether you take a bus for a crazy road trip or a domestic flight to save time, the options are plentiful, affordable, and comfortable enough for a solo backpacker. You can move from city to city, or from beach to mountain, in the blink of an eye.

So yes, regarding the buses, we are clearly not on the announced journey time (at least 6 hours instead of the planned 4.5 hours) but hey that's the pace of the south, you have to believe, you mustn't be in a hurry, that's for sure 😉

Adventure is everywhere… in complete tranquility

Can you imagine cartels on every street corner? Let's forget about that. Colombia today is not the same as it was in the 90s.

The reality is that Colombia has made progress. huge in recent years. Of course, as with any country, there are areas to avoid, but most tourist destinations are now super safe. You will be much more relaxed in Medellin, Cartagena or Santa Marta than in some big European cities, believe me. And as a solo backpacker, you can also stay in hostels where safety is a priority.

Of course, you should always use common sense. As everywhere, don't wander around at night in isolated neighborhoods, don't leave your belongings unattended. But overall, you will feel much safer here than in some parts of the world.

A budget within everyone's reach

Traveling solo in Colombia won't break the bank. Not only is accommodation affordable, but the local food is crazy (and at a very reasonable price). Between the empanadas, THE arepas, THE country banner, and the fried fish (fried fish), you'll be able to enjoy yourself on every street corner without breaking the bank. And transportation? As cheap as a movie ticket (ok, a little more expensive, but not much).

As a solo backpacker, the goal is to maximize every dollar spent, and Colombia is a destination where that becomes child's play. You'll feel like you're splurging as you savor local dishes, take a bus to Santa Marta, or exploring national parks like Tayrona, and all this without breaking the bank. A real paradise for solo travelers on a tight budget!

Contagious energy and partying everywhere

Finally, if you are going solo during festival season (like the Barranquilla Carnival or the Vallenato Festival), prepare to be completely immersed in the overflowing energy of Colombia. Colombians love to party, and believe me, you have never seen a party as joyful and colorful! And being alone, you can join any group, without having to negotiate with anyone.

Colombia is a bit of an ideal playground for solo travelers.

So, are you ready to go on an adventure? Colombia is waiting for you, and you're going to love it even more than you imagine!