These two settlements on the Pacific coast of Chocó, approximately 250km (155mi) west of Medellín, are gradually developing into holiday resorts. Facilities are threadbare yet the beaches, especially Playa Larga in El Valle, are excellent. The two towns are good bases to organize boat excursions upriver and there are plenty of opportunities to thrash about in thick tropical jungle or stumble upon dozing wildlife. Nearby, the Parque Nacional Ensenada de Utría, which includes Isla de Salomón, is a good location for whale and dolphin-spotting.

This archipelago in the Caribbean Sea lies about 750km (465mi) northwest of the Colombian mainland and only 230km (140mi) east of Nicaragua. The southern group of islands is clustered around the seahorse-shaped San Andrés and 90km (55mi) to the north, mountainous Providencia is plopped into the tropical sea. San Andrés especially has been affected by a duty-free inspired tourist boom, but the charm and beauty of these islands has been largely retained. The turquoise waters, extensive coral reefs and rich marine life are a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers while sun-soaked cays make soaking up UVs seem almost healthy. The easy-going life, friendly atmosphere, adequate (although not super-cheap) tourist facilities and general safety make the archipelago a good place to escape from the outside world.San Andrés lies on the cheapest and most convenient route between Central American and Colombia. There are shuttle flights between the archipelago and the mainland, and direct connections from several southern US capitals. There are no regular ferries or boats, but cargo boats and freighters from Panama and Cartagena will often take passengers.

Located 7km (4mi) from Ipiales, on a bridge which spans a spectacular gorge of the Guáitara River, is this gothic church. Legend has it that an image of the Virgin Mary appeared in the mid-18th century on an enormous rock above the river. Interestingly, the church has been constructed in such a way that the rock (and image) is its high altar. Pilgrims from all over Colombia and Ecuador journey here and, unsurprisingly, reports of miracles at the site are not uncommon. Accommodation is suitably ascetic, being provided in a small but cheery convent up the road from the church.