Colombia

Colombia's equatorial position affords it a diversity of landscapes matched by few countries. The country’s varied terrain is fertile ground for outdoor adventurers to dive, climb, raft, trek and soar. Divers can choose between the Caribbean and the Pacific. Caribbean dives are placid and clear, while the Pacific is a bit wilder. Go to the Island of Malpelo in the Pacific for some truly magnificent dives. There, you can see an unbelievable number of hammerhead and silky sharks, as well as the ever-impressive humpback whale, in season. Found far off the mainland is Isla de Providencia, a little visited destination out in the Caribbean. The reefs are exceptional here, and the wall dives are some of the best in the Caribbean. There are also some stellar wreck dives at Isla d Providencia, like the Planchon, a WWII German ship.

San Gil is the undisputed adventure capital, but Colombia boasts alfresco pleasures in all corners. Some of the continent's most iconic trekking is here and is dramatically varied: Ciudad Perdida is a multiday jungle walk to the ancient ruins of the Tayrona civilization, while numerous ascents inside Parque Nacional Natural El Cocuy place intrepid hikers among the highest reaches of the Andes. A wealth of ancient civilizations left behind a fascinating spread of archaeological and cultural sites throughout Colombia. Colombia offers an off-the-radar treasure trove of cinematic cobblestoned towns and villages that often feel bogged down in a different century.