Overview
Travel warning
Nationals are strongly advised not to travel to the provinces of Caqueta, Putumayo, Meta and Choco or to the rural areas of Antioquia, Cauca, Narino, Norte de Santander, Arauca, Sucre and Bolivar. For further information, visitors should seek official advice.
Colombia is situated in South America, bordered by Panama, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. The Andes Mountains extend into the country in three ranges running south to north. Flat grassy prairies in the east, along with the jungles and towering rainforests of the Amazon, make up over half the country’s area. Bogot, the capital and largest city, is situated almost in the country’s centre. The city blends Colombian tradition with Spanish colonial influences. Historical landmarks include the Capitol Municipal Palace and the Plaza Bolivar cathedral. Santa Marta’s modern hotels and white beaches are popular among tourists. Local dishes are varied and tasty, with Spanish influences. Recommended dishes are ajiaco (chicken stew with potatoes) and arepas (corn pancakes made without salt, eaten in place of bread). Colombian wines are only of average quality but Chilean and Argentinean wines are available. Bogot’s Colon Theatre presents ballet, opera, drama and music productions with international and local groups.
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