Colombia : where the Amazon, Andes and Caribbean meet

Shrouded in myth and mystery, Colombia is the ultimate independent traveller's frontier. Whether it's cosmopolitan Bogotá, colonial Cartagena, the alluring Amazon or the sun-soaked coast and islands, this carefully written guide will provide all the down-to-earth advice you'll need to safely explore this volatile but spectacular destination.

· stay informed - the latest current events and lists of news sources

· travel well - best options for accommodation, places to eat and transport

· have fun - insider tips on the best and safest trekking and diving

· be heard - with our practical Spanish-language guide

· find yourself - with 47 detailed maps

101 % essential for any trip

- The Sunday Telegraph (UK)

Comprehensive, well written, intelligently arranged, politically and environmentally aware and critical without being judgemental

- Los Angeles Times (USA)

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Cover photograph by Krzysztof Dydynski, Lonely Planet Images