Latest posts by Sara @ Off The Map Travels (see all)
- Get the Most Out of a Long Layover in Istanbul - January 13, 2018
- Top 4 Reasons to Visit Colombia During Christmas & New Year’s - September 5, 2016
- The Caribbean Islands: A Vacation Full of Adventure and Local Culture - November 26, 2012
With its colonial architecture, stunning landscapes, rare exotic fruits & fruit juices, great art museums, colorful resort towns, numerous extreme sports options, and very friendly locals, Colombia makes for a great well-rounded trip any time of year. But, during the winter holidays of Christmas & New Years, a visit to Colombia is even more extra special.
Here are our top reasons to visit Colombia this Christmas & New Year’s.
Feria de Cali
The capital of Colombian-style salsa, Cali, holds this annual festival between Christmas Day and Three Kings Day (January 6th). There’s a different theme for each day of the festivities. Everything from salsa dancing parades to antique cars and Colombian cowboys on horseback to the controversial bullfighting. The excitement doesn’t end on the official parade route. With shaving cream fights, salsa dancing at clubs all night long, and aguardiente (the national liquor) in hand, everyone is a participant in the fun.
El Alumbrado EPM in Medellin
Every December and January millions of colorful bright lights display the year’s theme along the streets of Medellin. Along with every festivity, there is great food. El Alumbrado is no different; there are blocks and blocks of vendors selling typical Colombian street food.
Nativity Scenes Everywhere — Especially in Bogota
Because Colombia is officially a Catholic country, you’ll find nativity scenes pop up pretty much everywhere around Christmas time. You’ll even find a nativity scene in bright lights outside the church up on Mount Monserrate which overlooks Bogota.
The Weather
Instead of suffering through a freezing cold winter, you can enjoy moderate temperatures just a 6-hour flight away from NYC. Bogota averages around 54 degrees in December, while Medellin averages 61 degrees, and Cali 75 degrees. It’s easy to keep warm during the cool evenings by drinking hot aromatica (non-alcoholic) or canelazo (alcoholic). Both are freshly made and sold on the streets of Bogota as well as in restaurants.
