With the arrival of June, millions of Colombians begin planning their mid-year vacations . This time marks the beginning of the peak school season, and with it the perfect opportunity to travel, unwind, and discover the unique landscapes our country has to offer. If you're wondering where to travel in Colombia in June , here we share a selection of 10 ideal destinations for all types of travelers , whether you're looking for beaches, nature, adventure, or culture.
1. San Andrés: sea of seven colors and total rest
San Andrés is one of the most sought-after destinations for Colombians and international tourists thanks to its crystal-clear sea, tropical landscapes, and Caribbean atmosphere. In June, the island experiences warm, stable weather, ideal for enjoying its beaches and water sports. This season also marks the beginning of the tourist boom during school holidays, so it's recommended to plan ahead.
The greatest jewel of San Andrés is its seven-color sea , a natural spectacle that varies between shades of turquoise, green, and blue, depending on the depth and sunlight. This marine richness makes it a paradise for snorkeling and diving . At various points on the island, you'll find certified diving centers offering beginner courses and guided reef excursions.
Among the most popular options is a boat ride to Johnny Cay , an islet located across from the main beach where you can spend the day enjoying music, local cuisine, and sunbathing. You can also visit La Piscinita and West View , ideal spots for swimming among colorful fish and diving into the water from natural diving boards.
Another must-see is the Hoyo Soplador , a curious natural formation that expels water under pressure when the tide rises, and the golf cart or motorcycle tour around the entire island, which allows you to discover its hidden corners in a single day.
- Recommended activities: snorkeling, diving, Johnny Cay tour, La Piscinita, West View, island walk.
- Tip: Book accommodations and tickets in advance, as June is peak season.
- Recommended for: couples, families, sea lovers and travelers looking for relaxation.
2. Santa Marta and Tayrona Park: nature, history and beach
Santa Marta is one of the oldest cities in South America and a tourist destination that combines Caribbean beaches, biodiversity, and ancient culture . June is one of the best months to visit, as it corresponds to the dry season, with sunny days and a coastal breeze that make the experience even more enjoyable.
Among the main attractions is Tayrona National Natural Park , a protected area where the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range meets the Caribbean Sea. Here you can hike through the jungle, spot wildlife, and relax on idyllic beaches like Cabo San Juan, Arrecifes, La Piscina, and Bahía Concha .
For ecotourism lovers, trekking to Cabo San Juan is one of the most popular activities. The hike can take between two and three hours, traversing jungle landscapes, natural viewpoints, and camping areas. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, Bahía Concha is easily accessible from the city and offers organized tour services.
Santa Marta also offers a wealth of cultural treasures. You can visit the Historic Center , Rodadero , Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino (Simón Bolívar's final resting place), and take excursions to the Sierra Nevada to visit towns like Minca and Palomino.
- Recommended activities: trekking in Tayrona, swimming on natural beaches, cultural visits in Santa Marta.
- Recommended for: families, couples, eco-travelers and adventurers.
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, hydrated food, and sunscreen. Some areas of Tayrona require a reservation.
3. Cartagena de Indias: history, culture and the Caribbean Sea
Cartagena is one of Colombia's most iconic and visited destinations, and June is an ideal month to enjoy it. Known as the "Heroic City," this city perfectly combines rich history with vibrant modern life. Its warm climate, colonial architecture, and tourist attractions make it a perfect place for those seeking relaxation, culture, and entertainment.
Exploring the walled city is like stepping back in time: its cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and lively plazas transport you back to the 17th century. You can visit historic sites like San Felipe de Barajas Castle , the Clock Tower , the Vaults , and the Palace of the Inquisition . If you prefer a more relaxing plan, simply sit on one of its terraces and enjoy a coffee or a cold beer while watching the sunset.
The city is also known for its Afro-Caribbean cuisine : dishes like coconut rice, Cartagena stew, shrimp ceviche, and crab empanadas are all part of the local menu. The nightlife is also lively, with bars, clubs, and rooftops overlooking the ocean.
For beach-goers, you can enjoy urban beaches like Bocagrande, Castillogrande, or El Laguito, or take a boat to the Rosario Islands and Barú, where crystal-clear seas and white-sand beaches await you with organized tourist services.
June is an excellent month to visit Cartagena because the usual influx of international tourists hasn't yet arrived. Furthermore, many cultural events begin during this time, such as literary festivals, concerts, film screenings, and academic gatherings. The city maintains an active cultural calendar throughout the year.
- Ideal for: couples, families, cultural travelers.
- Weather: Warm and sunny most of the month.
- Recommendation: Bring light clothing, sunscreen, and book tours in advance.
4. Coffee Axis: nature, coffee plantations and Colombian culture
The Coffee Region, comprised of the departments of Caldas, Quindío, and Risaralda, is one of Colombia's most charming regions and a perfect destination for June. With a mild climate, verdant landscapes, and a coffee culture recognized as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, it is ideal for those seeking rural tourism, nature, and tranquility .
Among the most recommended towns to visit are Salento , with its colonial architecture and proximity to the Cocora Valley , famous for its towering wax palms; Filandia , a colorful town with spectacular viewpoints; and Pijao , renowned as a peaceful, slow-tourism destination.
For families, the Coffee Region also offers theme parks such as Parque del Café in Montenegro and Panaca in Quimbaya, where adults and children can enjoy rides, shows, farm animals, and educational activities about the Colombian countryside.
In June, the weather is conducive to ecotours, visits to coffee farms, and scenic hikes. You can enjoy immersive experiences such as picking coffee, learning about the roasting process, and enjoying a freshly brewed cup right where it's grown.
- Recommended activities: visits to coffee farms, hikes in the Cocora Valley, theme parks, rural tourism.
- Recommended for: families, cultural travelers, nature lovers.
- Tip: Book in advance during peak season and pack comfortable clothing for mild weather and occasional rain.
5. Medellín and Antioquian towns: tradition, landscapes and culture
Medellín, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," is an excellent choice for traveling in June thanks to its mild climate, modern infrastructure, and proximity to some of Colombia's most beautiful towns. The city is vibrant, safe, and well-connected, making it an ideal base for exploring the Antioquia region.
In Medellín, you can explore sites like Pueblito Paisa , the Botanical Garden , Parque Explora , the Antioquia Museum , and Comuna 13 , a neighborhood transformed by urban art, a history of self-improvement, and social tourism. Additionally, the gastronomic, cultural, and entertainment offerings are varied for all types of travelers.
Very close to the city are charming towns that preserve their colonial architecture, nature and traditional customs:
- Jardín: One of the most beautiful towns in Colombia, with its central square, basilica, coffee farms, and natural waterfalls.
- Jericho: birthplace of the Holy Mother Laura, offers spirituality, culture, and spectacular views of the Andean mountains.
- Santa Fe de Antioquia: former capital of the department, with cobblestone streets, white houses, and the famous Puente de Occidente.
All of these destinations are accessible in just a few hours by road from Medellín, allowing you to plan weekend getaways or multi-day tours .
- Recommended activities: city tour of Medellín, visit to heritage towns, cultural tourism, light hiking.
- Recommended for: couples, cultural travelers, photographers, history and nature lovers.
- Tip: Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and prepare to enjoy the friendliness of the Paisa people.
6. Caño Cristales (Meta): the river of five colors
Located in the heart of the Meta department, within the Sierra de la Macarena National Natural Park, Caño Cristales is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. Its multicolored appearance, which includes shades of red, green, yellow, blue, and black, is due to the presence of an endemic aquatic plant called Macarenia clavigera , which blooms between June and November .
This natural spectacle is unparalleled and can only be appreciated during this season, when the water level is ideal and the plant life reaches its peak. The river, devoid of fish or visible sediment, flows over rock more than 1.2 billion years old, forming pools, waterfalls, and rapids that enhance its unique beauty.
To reach Caño Cristales, you must take a flight to La Macarena and from there hire certified tour operators who manage park entry permits. All visits are regulated to protect the ecosystem and promote responsible tourism.
The experience includes guided hikes along ecological trails, wildlife viewing, and a deep connection with nature. It's ideal for ecotourism and photography enthusiasts, and those seeking unique destinations away from mass tourism.
- Access: by air to La Macarena, with guides authorized by National Parks.
- Best time: June to November (Macarenia flowering season).
- Recommended for: ecotourists, experienced travelers, nature lovers.
- Tip: Wear appropriate footwear, biodegradable sunscreen, and follow all instructions from local guides.
7. Santander: extreme adventure and colonial heritage
The department of Santander, located in northeastern Colombia, is one of the most complete destinations for those seeking thrills, stunning natural landscapes, and colonial towns steeped in history . In June, the dry climate makes for outdoor activities, making this region an excellent choice for your mid-year vacation.
The epicenter of adventure tourism in Santander is San Gil , known as the national capital of extreme sports. There you can go rafting on the Fonce River , paragliding in the Chicamocha Canyon , canyoning , canyoneering , and caving in natural caves like La Vaca or El Indio.
Just 30 minutes from San Gil is Barichara , a Colombian heritage town that seems frozen in time. With cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and clay roofs, it's ideal for walking, enjoying the silence, visiting artisan workshops, and admiring the colonial architecture. From there, you can hike along the Camino Real to Guane , another historic gem.
For its part, the Chicamocha Canyon offers one of the most impressive views in the country. You can explore it by cable car, visit the Chicamocha National Park (PANACHI) , and enjoy cultural, culinary, and recreational activities with breathtaking views.
- Recommended activities: rafting, paragliding, hiking, historical tourism in colonial towns.
- Recommended for: groups of friends, couples, young travelers, adventure and culture lovers.
- Tip: Plan your itinerary ahead of time, combining adventure activities with relaxing time in Barichara or Guane.
8. Colombian Amazon: virgin nature and ancestral culture
The Colombian Amazon is one of the country's most fascinating and biodiverse destinations. Its entry point is Leticia , the capital of the Amazonas department, located on the triple border with Brazil and Peru. June marks the beginning of the dry season, making it easier to hike through the jungle, access indigenous communities, and navigate the world's mightiest river .
Visiting the Amazon isn't just a trip; it's a life-changing experience . Here, you can hike ecological trails in nature reserves like Mundo Amazónico , explore Amacayacu National Natural Park , and observe unique species of flora and fauna, including pink dolphins, howler monkeys, macaws, and more.
One of the most enriching activities is connecting with indigenous communities like the Tikuna, Yagua, and Huitoto , where you can learn about their customs, traditional medicine, cuisine, and worldview. These visits are led by local guides and respect their cultural practices.
Another unforgettable experience is spending the night in an eco-lodge or maloca, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle, or taking a night tour to observe species that only appear at sunset.
- Recommended activities: sailing on the Amazon River, visiting indigenous communities, wildlife watching, and hiking in reserves.
- Recommended for: experienced travelers, ecotourism lovers, researchers, nature photographers.
- Tip: Bring eco-friendly repellent, quick-drying clothing, hiking boots, and always hire licensed guides. An up-to-date vaccination schedule (yellow fever) is recommended.
9. Boyacá: culture, colonial architecture and relaxation among the mountains
The department of Boyacá is a treasure of the Colombian highlands. With a cool climate, well-preserved colonial towns, natural hot springs, and Andean landscapes , it's a favorite destination for those seeking a peaceful, cultural, and affordable getaway from Bogotá.
Among the must-see destinations is Villa de Leyva , one of the country's most beautiful heritage towns, with its famous cobblestone plaza, museums, craft markets, and bohemian atmosphere. It also offers activities such as visits to the Monastery of Santo Ecce Homo , the Kronosaurus Fossil , and ecological hikes to Iguaque Natural Park .
Paipa , for its part, is ideal for rest and relaxation thanks to its hot springs and spa services. You can also visit Lake Sochagota for water sports or simply enjoy the peaceful view with your partner or family.
Monguí , famous for its colonial architecture and artisanal ball production, is perfect for lovers of photography, tranquility, and purposeful travel. You can also hike to the Ocetá Páramo , considered one of the most beautiful in Colombia.
Being a region close to Bogotá, Boyacá is ideal for short weekend trips or long weekends . Its roads are in good condition, and its tourist offerings are increasingly diverse and environmentally friendly.
- Recommended activities: historical tourism, ecological hikes, hot springs, visits to museums and local markets.
- Recommended for: couples, families, seniors, cultural travelers.
- Tip: Bring warm clothing for cold nights, comfortable shoes, and book early during peak season, such as June.
10. Bogotá and its surroundings: urban culture and nature close to home
For those short on time to travel in June, Bogotá and its surrounding areas offer a multitude of cultural, natural, and culinary options without leaving the city. The capital, at over 2,600 meters above sea level, is a vibrant center of history, art, cuisine, and entertainment.
Within Bogotá you can tour Monserrate Hill , stroll through the historic center of La Candelaria , visit the Gold Museum , the Botero Museum , and delight in a culinary offering that ranges from traditional food to gourmet experiences in areas such as Usaquén, Chapinero or Zona G.
If you want to get away for a day to enjoy nature or explore nearby towns, there are several attractive options just a few hours away by car:
- Zipaquirá: famous for its Salt Cathedral , an underground architectural marvel built inside a salt mine.
- Guatavita: ideal for learning about the legend of El Dorado, strolling through a picturesque town and visiting the Guatavita Lagoon .
- La Vega and Villeta: warm-weather destinations where you can relax, enjoy natural pools, and take ecological hikes.
- Chingaza National Natural Park: a moorland ecosystem ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife such as deer and spectacled bears.
These short trips are ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who want to escape the routine without planning extensive logistics. Plus, many of these trips can be done in a single day or with just one night's accommodation.
- Recommended activities: cultural visits, ecological walks, gastronomic tourism, rural relaxation.
- Recommended for: families, couples, city travelers, people with limited time.
- Tip: Leave early to avoid traffic jams, make reservations at popular restaurants if you're going on the weekend, and wear clothing appropriate for the weather in each area (it can vary greatly).
Tips for traveling in June
- Book early: June is peak school season.
- Check the weather: areas like the Caribbean and the Amazon have dry seasons; others may experience sporadic rain.
- Travel during the week: Hotel and ticket prices tend to be lower.
- Review your holidays: Combine your vacation with holidays to make the most of your time.
Useful links for planning your vacation
- 2025 Calendar in Colombia
- Holidays 2025 in Colombia
- National holidays in Colombia
- Guide to traveling to Colombia
- The best destinations to travel to during long weekends
June is the perfect month to explore Colombia and enjoy your free time with your loved ones. Whether you prefer the Caribbean, the mountains, the jungle, or big cities, there's always a destination waiting for you .