Colombia is a haven for extreme sports enthusiasts. From the adrenaline rush of paragliding to the challenges of rock climbing and caving, Colombia provides the perfect backdrop for your next adrenaline-packed adventure.
Top five extreme sports not to be missed in Colombia
Paragliding
Colombia’s varied landscapes, warm winds, and dramatic cliffs make it an ideal destination for paragliding. These exhilarating flights often take place at high altitudes, accompanied by a tandem instructor. Be mindful of the weather conditions; flights can be canceled during the rainy season.
The duration and excitement level of your flight can vary based on your budget, including options for 360-degree stunts, spins, and loops. Many operators offer in-flight recordings to capture your awe-inspiring experience.
Notable paragliding destinations include Chicamocha Canyon near San Gil, Territorio Paraíso near Cali, and San Félix, Jericó, or Jardín near Medellín.
Rafting and Kayaking
Colombia’s rugged terrain makes it a prime location for whitewater adventures. San Gil, a charming city in the department of Santander, is the nation’s hub for rafting and kayaking. You can navigate rivers such as Rio Fonce, Río Suarez, and Río Chicamocha, which offer rapids ranging from class 2 to 4+. Other renowned sites include the Magdalena River in Huila, the Barragán River in Quindio, and the Negro River in Cundinamarca.
Trekking
Colombia’s diverse landscapes provide a rich tapestry for hikers to explore. From mountains to jungles, deserts to plains, the country offers a wide array of hiking experiences. Explore the Lost City with its lush jungle and ancient ruins, trek through the snow-capped peaks and glaciers of Cocuy National Park, or venture into the pristine forests of the Amazon. Other options include the Cocora Valley with its towering palm trees, the surreal landscapes of the Tatacoa Desert, and the rich biodiversity of Tayrona Park.
Diving
Colombia’s 3,000 kilometers of coastline along both the Pacific and the Caribbean, as well as its numerous islands, create an exceptional diving environment. Destinations like Providencia and San Andrés boast the world’s third-largest barrier reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other diving hotspots include Malpelo Island, Capurgana, Sapzurro, Baru, and Taganga.
The country offers diving experiences for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced divers. Explore Old Providence and MC Bean Lagoon or the San Andrés Biosphere Reserve for more straightforward dives, or, if you’re an experienced diver, venture into the wild waters of the Pacific Coast with its impressive shark populations.
Surfing
Colombia’s coastlines, both Caribbean and Pacific, offer incredible surfing suitable for all levels. On the Caribbean coast, you’ll find accessible spots like Playa del Costeño, Embarcadero de Cartagena, El Muelle, and El Bolsillo, catering primarily to beginners. On the Pacific coast, the surfing destinations of Nuqui offer a quieter experience, with spots for more advanced surfers like Termales, El Valle, and Pico de Loro.
The best surfing seasons in Colombia run from December to March and July to September, offering an extended window to ride the waves.