
Best Backpacking Destinations in Bello, Antioquia, Colombia
1. El Peñol de Guatapé
Hike to the top of this massive stone monolith for breathtaking views of Guatapé and the surrounding landscape.
- Unique Height: At over 200 meters tall, it offers a panoramic view unmatched by other hiking destinations.
- Stone Steps: The 655 stone steps make for an intense but rewarding climb.
- Tourist Attraction: One of the most popular tourist attractions in the region, it's easily accessible by public transport.
2. Piedra del Peje
Experience a natural rock formation that looks like a fish jumping out of the water in the Mariquita River.
- Natural Beauty: A unique geological feature that provides an opportunity for stunning photography.
- River Hike: The hike to the rock formation follows a picturesque river trail.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Less touristy than other destinations, it offers a more authentic Colombian experience.
3. Cerro Nutibara
Enjoy the beauty of Bello from this iconic hill, known for its colorful houses.
- Colorful Houses: The vibrant houses at the base of the hill create a striking visual contrast.
- Historical Significance: The site is home to the historical monument, Monumento a la Bandera Antioqueña.
- City Views: The panoramic view of Bello from the hilltop is unparalleled.
4. Caño Cristales
Witness one of the world's most beautiful rivers, known for its vibrant colors.
- Natural Wonder: A natural wonder that changes color with the seasons.
- Remote Location: Located in a remote and challenging-to-reach region, it requires careful planning to visit.
- River Hike: The hike to the river follows a picturesque trail through diverse ecosystems.
5. La Mina Verde Ecological Park
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park, home to multiple waterfalls.
- Eco-Tourism: Promotes sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts.
- Waterfall Hikes: Multiple waterfalls offer opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring.
- Bird Watching: A paradise for birdwatchers with over 300 species of birds.
6. La Playa del Pescador
Relax on the sandy beaches and enjoy fresh seafood at this coastal destination.
- Beach Life: A tropical paradise with clear waters perfect for swimming.
- Fresh Seafood: Enjoy freshly caught fish and seafood at local restaurants.
- Water Sports: Offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking and snorkeling.
7. El Salto de San Juan Nepomuceno
Experience the beauty of this majestic waterfall with a hike through lush greenery.
- Waterfall Adventure: A challenging but rewarding hike leads to the base of the waterfall.
- Natural Swimming Pool: A natural pool at the base of the waterfall offers a refreshing swim.
- Bird Watching: The area is rich in birdlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers.
8. Eco-Parque del Aguacate
Explore the tropical rainforest and observe diverse wildlife in this eco-park.
- Rainforest Adventure: A guided tour takes you through the dense, lush vegetation.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe monkeys, toucans, and other rainforest creatures.
- Canopy Walkway: A suspended walkway offers a unique perspective of the forest canopy.
9. Parque Natural El Cocuy
Hike through pristine landscapes and witness stunning glacial lakes in this natural park.
- Glacier Hike: A challenging hike leads to the stunning Pico El Cocuy, Colombia's third-highest peak.
- Natural Beauty: The park showcases glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife.
- Remote Destination: Located in a remote and challenging-to-reach region, it requires careful planning to visit.
10. Parque Nacional Natural El Tamá
Explore the cloud forest and observe diverse wildlife in this national park.
- Cloud Forest Adventure: A guided tour takes you through the dense, foggy vegetation.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe rare species such as the Andean condor and the spectacled bear.
- Trekking Trails: Offers various trekking trails of varying difficulty levels.
11. Parque Nacional Natural Chicamocha Cañón
Marvel at the majestic canyon and enjoy adventure activities like zip-lining.
- Canyon Views: Stunning views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.
- Adventure Activities: Offers activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and hiking.
- Historical Significance: The canyon is home to the historic Chicamocha Dam.
12. Los Nevados National Natural Park
Hike through glaciers, volcanoes, and diverse ecosystems in this national park.
- Glacier Hike: A challenging hike leads to the stunning Nevado del Ruiz Volcano.
- Natural Beauty: The park showcases various ecosystems, including paramos and glaciers.
- Remote Destination: Located in a remote and challenging-to-reach region, it requires careful planning to visit.
13. Parque Nacional Natural Páramo de Santurbán
Explore the unique ecosystem of the paramo and observe diverse wildlife.
- Paramo Adventure: A guided tour takes you through the unique, high-altitude Paramo ecosystem.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe rare species such as the Andean condor and the spectacled bear.
- Trekking Trails: Offers various trekking trails of varying difficulty levels.
14. Parque Nacional Natural La Macarena
Witness the natural wonder of Caño Cristales and explore diverse ecosystems.
- Natural Wonder: A natural wonder that changes color with the seasons.
- Rainforest Adventure: Guided tours take you through the dense, lush vegetation.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including rare bird species.
15. Parque Nacional Natural Los Flamencos
Explore the unique landscapes of the Guanacas, Guatapecunes, and Lagunas Saladas.
- Unique Landscapes: Features salt lakes, sand dunes, and flat-topped hills called Guanacas.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe flamingos, ibises, and other wetland species.
- Natural Beauty: The park showcases diverse ecosystems and stunning sunsets.