Bogotá
Gay Colombia
One of the world’s most diverse countries—geographically, linguistically, and ethnically—Colombia is an excellent place to sample the unmatched vibrancy and dizzying variety of South America. From the white-sand beaches of the country’s Caribbean coast to its soaring Andean peaks, gay travelers will discover unrelenting natural beauty and well-preserved cultural and historical treasures.
Those who travel to connect with nature and the outdoors can choose from fertile pasturelands, dense jungles, a rugged Pacific coastline, and idyllic palm-fringed shores, all easily accessible. Gay travelers who crave history and culture can seek out Spanish architecture, skyscrapers, and modern life trappings in major cities like Cali, Medellín, and Bogotá. These urban districts are where you’ll find Colombia’s gay scene, complete with sizzling gay nightlife options. Prepare to meet like-minded souls on the dance floors in Bogotá and Medellín, where you can join the gay party any night of the week.
Those who prefer a slower pace and more cultural enrichment should plan to stroll the famed cobbled town of Cartagena or one of its lesser-known counterparts, including Popayan, Villa de Leyva, San Gil, and Santa Fe de Antioquia.
Photo Credit: Robin Noguier
What do you want to discover?
Top Things to See and Do in Colombia
MUST DO: Attractions & Activities
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Local Expert: Gay Scene in Colombia
With same-sex marriage legalized in 2014, Colombia continues to make strides toward equality and inclusiveness. The gay scene in the country is large, thriving, colorful, vibrant, and welcoming. The gayborhoods are teeming with restaurants, shops, boutiques, wine bars, and a vast nightlife scene. People here are seen holding hands while walking and even showing public displays of affection. You will feel safe and welcomed in these areas. So bring your best outfits and walking shoes, because there is a lot to explore.
Best Time to Visit Colombia
December through March and June through September are some of the best times to visit Colombia. These times of the year would give you reasonable hotel rates and lower traffic. However, since the weather is perfect year-round, anytime is a good time to visit Colombia. Keep in mind that the higher the altitude you are visiting, the colder it gets.
Top Things to See and Do in Colombia
MUST DO Colombia Attractions & Activities
There is plenty to do while visiting Colombia. From historic buildings to thriving nightlife, there is a little bit of everyone in Colombia. Immerse yourself in the culture, try some famous food, or just lounge on the beach. Below are some ideas and attractions to try while visiting.
Go on a coffee tour - It goes without saying that Colombia is known for its coffee. Much like a wine tasting, you can go on coffee tasting tours from many different coffee roasters. See where the coffee beans are harvested and then turned into delicious coffee. A coffee lover's dream!
Tayrona National Natural Park - This national park boasts crystal clear beaches, palm trees, and rainforest backdrops. Here you can snorkel, explore, or simply relax at the beach.
Photo Credit: Yves Alarie
Museo De Oro - Also known as the “Gold Museum,” is a museum dedicated to art that has been made with gold. Its three floors are full of fun information about the history of the mineral and how it was used in Colombian History.
Ciudad Perdida - If you want to spend some time outdoors while visiting, try a long hike to Ciudad Perdida. The experience, views, and scenery after the hike are gratifying.
Photo Credit: Alexander Schimmeck
MUST EAT Colombia Gay-Friendly Dining
Food is one of the best parts of traveling to Colombia. It's fresh, exciting, and full of flavor. Some of the best food you can find is in shops specializing in only one thing, such as empanada shops and even street food. If you are looking for something hearty to fill you up or something to munch on while exploring, Colombia has something for you.
Arepa - If you had to only eat one thing while visiting Colombia, it would definitely be Arepa! Arepa is a corn “maize” made into a flattened disk, cooked on a griddle, then stuffed with a variety of different forms of stuffings. From meats to cheese, savory to sweet, large to small, they are arguably the most popular food in Colombia. Give this a try while you are visiting.
Colombian Empanada - Another staple dish in Colombia is Empanada. Many shops in Colombia specialize in Empanadas and only sell them. There will always be a chance to try one of these from restaurants to street food vendors. Many shops offer a variety of flavors and sauces to try and dip them in. So try them while they are freshly cooked; they are guaranteed to be your favorite snack.
Bandeja Paisa - A large dish consisting of an assortment of Colombian foods. Like an English Breakfast, it is served with beans, rice, chorizo, chicharron, Carne en Polvo (powdered beef), ripe plantain, fried egg, avocado, and arepa. Yes, it's a lot of food but a staple throughout the country. If you're feeling hungry, order this and dig in!
Sopa de Mondongo - This popular soup is made with diced tripe that has been slow-cooked with different potatoes, garlic, bell peppers, and spices. It's a very popular and hearty dish. If you are feeling adventurous, try this during your visit.
Buñuelo - Colombian Buñuelos are a popular dessert that can be found throughout the city. It's so popular that even food carts are set up selling these. Buñuelos are small balls of corn flour, cassava starch, eggs, and cheese. The sweet aroma will draw you in, and the fact that they are small makes it impossible to stop at just one.
MUST VISIT: Colombia Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Colombia has a vast and thriving gay nightlife. Two of Colombia's largest cities, Bogota and Medellin, have their gayborhoods where many LGBTQ+ people gather to eat, drink, and be themselves. Their nightlife scene is thriving, and in fact, it's one of the largest in South America. Bogota's gayborhood can be found in the Chapinero neighborhood. A short 30 min drive from the city's downtown area. In Medellin, the gayborhood is located in Parque Lleras. Between the two cities, there are over 100 different bars, clubs, and lounges to go and explore. So go out, have fun and be yourself!
Photo Credit: VICE
Travel Safety Tips
The people of Colombia are warm and welcoming. Colombia is a fun, safe, and friendly place to visit. Colombia has a lot of anti-discrimination laws protecting the LGBT community.
While visiting, feel free to be your most authentic self. Public displays of affection are normal throughout the big cities. While visiting, it's always wise to practice common sense travel tips. Take advantage of the hotel room safe and lock up any valuables while exploring. Remember how to get back to your room after a fun night out, and finally, have a great time!
Destinations within Colombia
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Colombia Photos:
