20 Weird Facts About Colombia That Will Surprise You
20 Weird Facts About Colombia That Will Surprise You – Colombia is a country full of surprises. It’s a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unexpected curiosities. While many people know Colombia for coffee, emeralds, and Shakira, there are countless lesser-known details that make it truly fascinating.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 weird facts about Colombia that highlight its uniqueness and charm. These facts range from strange traditions to unusual natural wonders. By the end, you’ll see why Colombia is one of the most intriguing countries in the world.
1. Colombia Has the Most Bird Species on Earth
Colombia is home to more than 1,900 bird species, making it the bird capital of the world. The Andean condor, hummingbirds, and rare species like the Santa Marta parakeet can all be found here. Birdwatchers often rank Colombia as a top global destination.
2. A River With Five Colors
The Caño Cristales river is often called “the liquid rainbow.” From July to November, aquatic plants turn the river into a display of red, yellow, green, blue, and black. National Geographic even named it the most beautiful river in the world.
3. The Only Country Named After Christopher Columbus
Unlike other nations, Colombia directly carries the name of the explorer Columbus. This makes it stand out among Latin American countries in both history and symbolism.
4. Pink Dolphins Swim in the Amazon
The Amazon River in Colombia is home to rare pink dolphins. Local legends say these dolphins can transform into humans at night to visit villages. Scientists believe their color comes from capillaries under their skin.
5. Bogotá Is Higher Than Most People Think
Colombia’s capital sits at over 2,600 meters (8,600 feet) above sea level. Visitors often underestimate its altitude, leading to a quick reminder when they get short of breath after climbing stairs.
6. Pablo Escobar’s Hippos Are Still Around
The infamous drug lord imported hippos to his private zoo in the 1980s. After his death, the animals multiplied and now roam freely, creating one of the most unusual invasive species problems in the world.
7. Coffee Tastes Different Depending on the Region
Colombian coffee is world-famous, but the flavor varies depending on where it’s grown. Coffee from the Sierra Nevada has fruity notes, while beans from Antioquia are nuttier and chocolatey.
8. A Festival Dedicated to Donkeys
In Villa de Leyva, there’s a festival called Festival del Burro (Donkey Festival). Donkeys are dressed in costumes, paraded through town, and celebrated for their role in agriculture and transport.
9. Colombia Has the Tallest Palm Trees
The wax palm tree, found in the Cocora Valley, can grow up to 60 meters (200 feet). It’s the tallest palm tree species in the world and also the national tree of Colombia.
10. Strange National Sport: Tejo
Tejo is Colombia’s official sport. It involves throwing a metal disc at targets filled with gunpowder. When you hit the target correctly, it explodes. Imagine darts with fireworks.
11. Two Seasons at the Same Time
Because of its geography, Colombia can experience two different seasons at once. While the coast basks in hot sunshine, the highlands may have chilly, rainy weather on the same day.
12. Colombia Is an Emerald Superpower
About 70–90% of the world’s emeralds come from Colombia. The Muzo mines are especially famous for producing the highest-quality stones.
13. Home to the World’s Biggest Spanish-Speaking Population After Mexico
While most people assume Spain might hold this record, Colombia is actually the third-largest Spanish-speaking population worldwide, after Mexico and the United States.
14. They Celebrate a Day of Candles
On December 7, Colombians celebrate Día de las Velitas (Day of Little Candles). Families light candles outside their homes to honor the Virgin Mary. The streets glow with thousands of flickering lights.
15. Shakira Isn’t the Only Superstar
Besides Shakira, Colombia has given the world international stars like Sofía Vergara, J Balvin, and James Rodríguez. Music, sports, and film are major cultural exports.
16. A Cathedral Inside a Salt Mine
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is a Catholic church built 200 meters underground in a salt mine. It can hold thousands of visitors and is one of Colombia’s most unique architectural wonders.
17. They Have Their Own “Valley of Statues”
San Agustín Archaeological Park is filled with mysterious statues carved by ancient civilizations. The figures, some human-like and others animal-shaped, remain an unsolved mystery.
18. Colombia Has a Desert With Flamingos
The Tatacoa Desert is not only known for its surreal red and gray landscapes but also as a home for flamingos. It’s also one of the best stargazing spots in the country.
19. A Festival Where People Throw Flour at Each Other
In Pasto, during the Black and White Carnival, locals engage in playful battles by throwing flour, foam, and even paint at each other. It’s a colorful celebration of unity and culture.
20. They Have a City Nicknamed “The City of Eternal Spring”
Medellín enjoys mild weather year-round, with temperatures averaging 22°C (72°F). Its eternal spring climate makes it one of the most pleasant cities to live in.
Why These Facts Matter
These 20 weird facts about Colombia show the diversity of its culture, geography, and traditions. They reveal a country that is far more than stereotypes. From pink dolphins to exploding sports games, Colombia stands out as a nation full of surprises.
Explore More Interesting Facts
If you enjoy discovering unusual and surprising information, you may also like weird animal facts that will blow your mind or random facts about Wednesday. For those who are curious about places, fun facts about Savannah and fun facts about golf are also worth exploring.
For more general knowledge, you can check reliable sources like National Geographic and BBC Travel, which often feature detailed insights about Colombia and other countries.
