Things to See in Colombia

Ciudad Perdida, aka Lost City, was built between the 11th and 14th centuries and is one of the largest pre-Columbian towns discovered in the Americas. There are about 150 stone terraces, which once served as foundations for houses. It's hidden deep in thick forest amid rugged mountains, far from any access roads - the return hike to the city takes six days.

Tayrona, with its beaches set in deep bays and shaded with coconut palms, is one of Colombia's most popular national parks. Some beaches are bordered by coral reefs, and there's some great snorkeling, but beware of the treacherous offshore currents. The region was once home to Tayrona Indians and remnants of their civilization have been found in the park.

On a stone bridge spanning a deep gorge, the neo-Gothic Santuario de Las Lajas is a strange but spectacular site, as well as a hugely popular destination for pilgrims in need of a miracle. They place their faith in the Virgin Mary, whose image is believed to have emerged from a huge vertical rock 45m (147ft) above the river sometime in the mid-18th century.