If you’ve been wanting to discover South America on a motorcycle, Colombia is where you should go first. It is said that you should go to the Bahamas for the Caribbean beaches, to Peru for the stunning Andes, and to Brazil for the Amazon, but if you want all in one place, visit Colombia.
Here are some of the best destinations for Motorcycle Tours in Colombia:
The Coffee Triangle or the Coffee Axis was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. Deemed of exceptional value to humanity, this region offers not only coffee plantations to ride past but also a mix of scenic mountain roads and picturesque small towns. Make sure to stop for a while and explore the charming towns of Salento and Manizales. When you ride through Cocora Valley, you’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of the towering wax palm trees, Colombia's national tree. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but coffee here is exceptional, and worth a try!
If you’re looking for alternative routes in the highlands, you should start in Medellín. Known as the "City of Eternal Spring”, it’s a great starting point for the route to Guatapé, a charming town known for the houses decorated with colorful bas-reliefs. While you are here, don’t miss out on exploring the famous El Peñol rock, which offers not only breathtaking views of the areas but also thrilling curves to ride on.
Looking for a truly unique experience? The Tatacoa Desert offers rugged, surreal landscapes featuring red rock formations. The challenging terrain will push your riding skills and is a great choice for advanced riders. And if stargazing is on your bucket list, you’re in for a treat - this area is one of the best-known places in Colombia to look at the night sky.
Leave Colombia’s second driest place behind – it’s time to hit the Caribbean Coast! With its coastal rides and gorgeous views. Cartagena, the Pearl of the Caribbean, is a great starting point to explore this area. Ruta del Sol (Highway 45) will take you almost all the way to Santa Marta.
Further east, Tayrona National Park protects the biodiversity endemic to the area of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range and provides perfect views of the coast while you ride on scenic mountain trails.
Want to embark on a truly adventurous ride? Head to the Amazon Basin. With its off-the-beaten-path roads and jungle landscape, you’ll be experiencing a raw and wild ride.
Particularly in countries where the road infrastructure is not ideal, you should consider the impact of weather conditions on your rides. Because of its tropical climate, it’s a good idea to visit Colombia during the dry season (from December to May), when the road conditions are better. During the wet season (June to November), you’ll likely encounter unpredictable conditions that can damper your experience.
Now that you’re well-informed, it’s time to experience the thrill, beauty, and culture of this incredible South American country on your own! So, why not join a Motorcycle Tour in Colombia?