HenriettaColombia specialist
COLOMBIA expert
Why do you love Colombia so much?
It has soo much to offer! From palm-fringed beaches and jungle-clad mountains, to sprawling coffee plantations and vibrant cities cloaked in historical charm, I love the diversity of landscapes and environments you find yourself in.
When did you first visit Colombia and what was your first impression?
Despite growing up in Brazil and travelling extensively around the South American continent, Colombia was always the missing piece for me. I finally visited in March 2023 and was instantly blown away by the unmistakably Latin culture - think a kaleidoscope of colours and sounds, blended with some of the warmest people you will ever meet.
What is your all-time favourite place in the country?
The coffee region definitely holds a special place in my heart. Life seems to move at a much gentler pace and the scenery is breathtaking. I was fortunate enough to stay at Hacienda Bambusa, a working farm that oozes serenity and was the inspiration for Disney's Encanto movie. Waking up to the sound of hummingbirds outside your window each morning is truly unbeatable.
What's been your most memorable experience in Colombia?
While staying in the Sierra Nevada mountains, we embarked on an 8-hour trek that led us through dense jungle and up craggy trails in 35 degree heat. It was pretty gruelling at times, but we were rewarded with refreshing waterfall swims and spellbinding views across the highest coastal mountain range in the world.
What would be your top recommendation for someone visiting Colombia for the first time?
Distances between locations can be vast, so prepare to move around (often using internal flights); you'll be rewarded with a delightfully varied experience.
What's your insider tip?
Head to the Mercado Bazurto for a true flavour of Cartagena. This bustling market is brimming with everything from exotic fruit and electronics, to pigs'heads and children's toys ? be prepared for an assault on the senses!
Recommendations for Colombia
What's the perfect souvenir to bring back from Colombia?
A mochila of course! Handwoven by the Wayuu ethnic group, these bags are perfect for gallivanting around Colombia and beyond.
What's been your best foodie experience in Colombia?
Colombia's larger cities boast a fantastic restaurant scene. A highlight was Candé in Cartagena, where tantalising cocktails are paired with their local delicacy of red snapper, wrapped in a banana leaf to preserve the flavour. This was accompanied by live music and cumbia dancers for a fully Cartagenero experience!
What's the one local dish you have to try while in Colombia?
Cartagena's street food scene is not to be missed ? be sure to pick up an arepa con huevo (deep fried corn cake filled with an egg) for the ultimate breakfast on-the-go.
Is there somewhere you haven't had a chance to visit yet that you'd love to go?
Two places immediately spring to mind. The first is Los Llanos, Colombia's cowboy territory that is teeming with wildlife, and the second is the isolated yet beautifully preserved town of Mompox, where I half expect the pages of a Gabriel Garcia Marquez novel to come to life before my eyes.
What's one place in Colombia that you could go back to again and again?
Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast - it's a winning combination of tropical beaches and azure waters, with access to the endless hiking trails and exotic wildlife of the Sierra Nevada mountains.