Colombia is a country that embraces diversity. Colombia is one of the countries where same-sex marriage is legal and where adoption for same-sex couples is permitted. We have nation-wide anti-discrimination laws that protect our LGBT population in the different spheres of society. Trans people can also change their gender in all their identity documents as well as get a sex reassignment surgery through the public universal health system. And many other signs of progress that are too extensive for us to talk about here. Moreover, the Colombian national police has been certified as a friendly biz organization, which means this entity has a friendly relationship with the LGBT community. 

All these efforts have not gone unseen by the travel industry. Colombia was named the best emerging LGBT destination in FITUR 2017, one of the world’s biggest international tourism trade fairs. 

The best cities for LGBT travelers to visit in Colombia are: 

Bogota: 

This city has a wide gastronomic and cultural vibe to offer. Bogota is home to the largest gay bar in Latin America. The city has a vibrant LGBT nightlife that makes everyone feel welcome. 

The following events take place in Bogota every year: 

  • The Bogotá Pride (June-July)
  • Equality week (june-july)
  • Gay international festival (November) 
  • Iberoamerican Theatre Festival (April)
  • LGBT trade (November) 
  • Pink cinema (september)

Medellin:

This city is known for its warm and generous people. They are always proud to show tourists the “Paisa” culture and guide them to the most important landmarks in the city.  

These are the following events that take place in Medellin every year: 

Barranquilla: 

This is a port city that offers many fun activities and events to tourists all year round. The most important event in Barranquilla is its carnival where the city is transformed into a giant festival. This event is one of the most famous celebrations in the country and proclaimed an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The Barranquilla Carnival has a Gay Guacherna, a night parade that brings together the entire city with its LGBT population. This important event ends with the coronation of the Gay Queen of the carnival. 

These are the following events that had taken place in Barranquilla this year:

Cartagena: 

This place has everything you wish for in a single destination. Cartagena is considered a nightlife and gastronomic destination. 

These are the following events that take place in Cartagena every year: 

  • Rumours Festival (July)
  • Cartagena Pride (August)
  • Gay international festival (July) 

Chic tours is a Colombian DMC that offers unique and exotic luxury programs in Colombia. This company is LGBT friendly and has specialized tours that will make the LGBT community feel at home.