Colombia is a South American country with 1,000 miles of coast to the north along the Caribbean Sea and 800 miles to the west along the Pacific Ocean.

Its broken, rugged terrain, paired with its location near the Equator, are a perfect storm for diverse climates, vegetation and crops including Colombia’s beloved, coffee (the most delicious said to be found in the capital city of Bogotá).

The country is also home to unmatched natural beauty, like Cocora Valley where you can hike among 200-foot-tall wax palms, poisonous mushrooms and delicate hummingbirds. Medellín is a vibrantly green oasis known for its pleasant climate, fertile soil and variety of flowers.

The port city of Cartagena’s Old Town dates back to the 16th century, filled with cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings.

And if that’s not enough, Colombia is also celebrated for its rich history of writers, poets, artists and musicians.