Colombia is a popular tourist destination for a reason – it’s gorgeous, and has plenty of amazing places for visitors to stay. One of the country’s hallmarks is its natural beauty, which many people take the time to explore during treks or camping trips. What if someone doesn’t want a rugged camping experience, though? In that case, they can opt for glamping instead. “Glamping” is a combination of the words “glamor” and “camping”, and it’s been rising in popularity for the past several years. In Colombia, numerous tourists choose glamping near Medellin and other picturesque areas each year. For example, the towns of El Peñol and Guatape make the perfect day trips for tourists staying in Medellin, as well as those who are relaxing in nearby glamp-sites.
Why is Colombia so popular as a glamping destination?
Even though glamping around Medellin is undoubtedly popular, it isn’t the only glamping hotspot in Colombia. Others include Cundinamarca and Boyaca, two other states that are common tourist destinations. Many visitors to the country don’t just want a nice vacation, though; they want a transformative, unique experience. One ideal way to get that is through nature tourism, and Colombia is an ideal place for that thanks to its unparalleled biodiversity and beauty.
Why glamping around Medellin is so popular
Glamping is partly about the luxury, but what makes it so popular is that it brings people closer to nature. It has the immersive quality of camping, minus the inconvenience of improvised showers and lack of electricity.
When it comes to the areas around Medellin, it’s clear to see why so many tourists want to visit. About 17% of the country’s glamp-sites are found in the Antioquia region (where Medellin is located), and many of them are concentrated around a couple of small towns. El Peñol is known for a towering rock formation, called Piedra del Peñol, that offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding countryside, Guatape lake, and archipelagos. Even though it can be tough to climb up the 700+ steps to the top, the view is more than worth it. Guatape is another charming town near Medellin, famous for its colorfully painted houses and vendors selling artisanal foods, drinks, and handcrafts.
While there isn’t really enough to do in either of these towns to justify an extended stay, they do make the perfect pairing with glamping around Medellin. There are actually over 100 glamp-sites dotted around the edge of Guatape lake, which has turned it into one of Colombia’s top glamping destinations. Guatape alone gets nearly 1 million visitors per year, and El Peñol gets its fair share as well. The atmospheric lake, the vibrant towns, and the gorgeous surroundings make it an ideal spot for glamping.
Another factor is the weather, which remains sunny and mildly warm pretty much year-round. This makes it perfect for water sports such as kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and more. There’s even an inflatable water park and guided boat tours for anyone who’s interested. When the day spent on the water draws to a close, it’s time to return to the luxurious glamp-site for relaxation, romance, and maybe even some s’mores.
What are the best options for glamping around Medellin?
If you’re considering glamping around Medellin, you’ll have plenty of spots to choose from. Some of them focus on the luxury aspect of glamping, while others offer a wide variety of water sports activities. You’ll find tents, domes, and even cabañas available. Do you want something overlooking the lake? Reserve a spot in igloo-shaped tents that perch on wooden decks right next to the water. Would you prefer a Western-themed experience? One site offers glamping in converted wagons that come with open-air showers, private areas for BBQs, and jacuzzis.
If you’re interested in a more secluded location, those are available too. Some glamp-sites are built for couples who are there for a romantic getaway, when privacy is essential. One such site is known as a “love hotel” that’s only 15 minutes away from El Peñol; couples can enjoy their view of the Andes mountains, top-tier room service, and a coffee farm that’s located on-site and open for tours.
Why people love glamping
Even though visitors may encounter a few more bugs at a glamp-site compared to the average hotel, most of their glamping experience will be defined by pampering and relaxation. Just consider this list of some of the most common amenities offered by glamp-sites in Colombia:
- Jacuzzis
- Hot tubs
- Air conditioning and heating
- Showers
- Bathrooms
- Electric outlets
- Fire pits
- Barbeques
- Free breakfast
- Plush bedding
- Water sport rentals (kayaks, jet skis, etc.)
- Bicycle rentals
- Gourmet restaurants
- Massage therapists
It’s also possible to choose between several different types of glamping shelters, as mentioned above. The popular format is a dome-shaped tent, but others are just as unique. For example, you might end up in a moon-shaped sleeping pod that’s suspended over a wooden deck. Or, you could pick a small cabaña that has a kitchenette, basic supplies, and a hospitable host who makes everyone’s breakfast each morning. If you wanted to get a little closer to a camping experience, you could choose an actual tent – still glamorous, but a bit less structured.
Preparing for glamping in Colombia
Glamping may be more luxurious than regular camping, but part of the charm is that you’re still removed from the civilized world. This being the case, you’ll likely end up bringing a few necessities along.
Before finalizing your glamping checklist, or check our FAQ section on our glamping page! check on what will and won’t be available for your stay. For example, some places provide soap, shampoo, and conditioner, while others expect you to bring your own sleeping bag or inflatable mattress. You’ll most likely have to bring some food along, and maybe a cooler as well. It all depends on where you’re staying, and you want to make sure that you come prepared.
Colombia is famous for many things, and glamping is quickly becoming one of them. If you’re planning a trip to this country, maybe you should treat yourself to a glamping experience to round out your vacation.
