Colombia has a vast array of activities to suit every taste. Well known for being a nation who likes football, there are also other leisure pursuits for those who may not enjoy the beautiful game. Some language schools offer not only the chance to learn Spanish, but also regular outdoor activities including concerts, sightseeing and nature parks.

Some of the activities available for anyone to enjoy include Guatavita Lagoon. It is located in the Andes and was used in the past as a place for ritual sun worship. It is also thought that the famous legend of El Dorado originated at this spot.

For the handicraft lover a visit to Raquira in the Andes will be worth a trip. This small village also boasts beautiful landscapes and a desert full of marine life fossils.

Cartagena, the ancient city, is packed with sights and history. The castle is a cultural experience and the city was one of the main ports for slave trade. Saint Pedro Claver (the “Slave of Slaves) lived in the city. There is a church dedicated to Saint Pedro.

El Totumo mud volcano is visited by people from all over the world who wish to bathe in the mud for their health. Mud baths are well known for their therapeutic properties. Of course, many people take a dip just for fun too. The volcano is approximately 30 metres high and is located near Cartagena.

For those who love to lie on a beach or take a stroll at the water’s edge are in for a treat at the natural park of El Rosario Islands. The park itself in located in the Caribbean Sea and is made up of dozens of small coral islands. The beaches are outstanding and there is also the chance to take SCUBA diving lessons.

Bogota has something a little special for those who love to cycle. Monday mornings were once decreed by the local authorities as the time when all the roadways would be used exclusively by bicycles. This is a tradition that still upholds, but since then many cycle paths have been created making it possible to tour the whole city on a cycle. Once a year the city also runs an ‘Automobile free day’ where everyone either cycles or walks to work or school.

There are many activities for those who like to learn about new things, such as taking a trip to the National Coffee Park, it is a theme park where it is also possible to learn about history and ecology. A trip to the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira is an entirely unique experience. It was built by the workers of the salt mine and is carved into the mountainside.