National Geographic Traveler: Colombia

Recently considered one of the world's most dangerous places, Colombia has emerged from a long history of violence. Here, in this diamond-shaped tropical nation about the size of California and Texas combined, you can find sweeping rain forests teeming with exotic animals and birds, glistening snows capping the summits of Andean volcanoes, and dozens of colorful indigenous cultures that predate the conquistadores. A cornucopia of natural wonders side by side with sleepy colonial villages and vibrant cosmopolitan cities, Colombia--a country of 46 million people--is a South American giant just awakening to its vast potential. Award-winning travel writer Christopher Baker is a foremost expert on Colombia, and he takes you through the country's vast and varied landscapes with astute guidance, making sure you don't miss the must-do sights, and lesser ones as well. Among the special features are mapped walking tours of Bogotà's old city and historic Cartagena; a mapped driving tour of San Andrès; experiential sidebars on birding, cooking Colombian cuisine, and visiting the emerald mines; insider tips from National Geographic experts; and a hefty Travelwise section that features handpicked hotels and restaurants.