the amazon basin

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Cartagena, Colombia’s gem on the Caribbean coast, is a historic port city founded in 1533. During Spanish colonial times, it was one of South America’s most important ports, shipping gold, silver, and emeralds to Europe, making it a frequent target for pirates like Francis Drake, who attacked in 1586. The impressive Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, one of the largest forts of its time, was built to protect the city. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, with its colorful, walled streets, colonial buildings, churches such as Catedral Santa Catalina, and museums like the Palacio de la Inquisición, continues to captivate visitors.

The Tayrona National Park, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast near Santa Marta, is a biodiverse paradise spanning 150 km². Known for its pristine beaches like Cabo San Juan, lush tropical rainforests, and rugged Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta foothills, it’s a haven for nature lovers. The park hosts over 300 bird species, including the endemic Santa Marta Parakeet, plus wildlife like howler monkeys and jaguars. It’s also a sacred site for the Tayrona indigenous culture, featuring archaeological sites like Pueblito. With crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and trails through diverse ecosystems, Tayrona offers an unforgettable eco-adventure.

 The Rosario Islands, a stunning archipelagolocated off Colombia’s Caribbean coast near Cartagena, comprisef 27 coral islands within the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Park. Known for their white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, they’re a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and spotting marine life like tropical fish and sea turtles. Popular islands like Isla Grande and Isla Barú offer eco-lodges, fresh seafood, and mangroves teeming with birds, such as frigatebirds and pelicans. Just a 45-minute boat ride from Cartagena, the islands provide a serene escape with rich biodiversity and Caribbean charm.