Adventure on Colombian Coast (5 EPIC things to do)

The secret’s obviously out: Colombia is the trendy place to visit. Never mind the history, the corrupt politics, or the drug cartels. They may still persist but savvy travelers are now looking beyond the stereotypes and on to Colombia’s deserted coastlines, rainbow-hued plazas, dance-crazed locals, and of course, its damn fine coffee. If you want adventure on Colombian coast, look no further.

Inevitably, most backpackers hit up the extraordinary Caribbean coast, basing themselves in the gringo hotspots of Cartagena and Santa Marta. Both cities offer plenty in terms of history, culinary surprises, and luxury accommodation.

But for some real excitement, reach beyond the cities and check off these five epic adventures:

(Via Cartagena)

Budget-friendly restaurant: Caffé Lunático (15,000 peso lunch special)

Splurge: Restaurante Interno (staffed by a woman’s prison!)

Budget-friendly hotel: El Genoves hostel

Splurge: Allure Chocolate Hotel

1. Dive into a mud volcano

Fancy a…