The Complete List of World Heritage Sites In Colombia

Colombia is a land of incredible diversity, where vibrant cultures meet breathtaking landscapes. From the Caribbean coast to the Amazon rainforest, and across its ancient highlands, the country holds a rich tapestry of human history and natural wonders, many of which are recognized globally for their outstanding universal value.

This unique heritage includes nine World Heritage Sites in Colombia, each representing a pinnacle of human achievement or natural beauty. These sites span the country’s vast geography and history, ranging from the ancient rock art of Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar” to the mystical statues of San Agustín Archaeological Park. For each, you’ll find details on its Type, Department/Location, and the Year Inscribed, all organized for you below.

What criteria does UNESCO use to designate a World Heritage Site?

For a place to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, it must meet at least one of ten specific criteria, which fall into categories of cultural or natural significance. Cultural sites might demonstrate a masterpiece of human creative genius, exhibit an important interchange of human values, or be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement. Natural sites, on the other hand, might contain superlative natural phenomena, represent major stages of earth’s history, or contain important natural habitats for biodiversity conservation. These sites are considered to have “Outstanding Universal Value” for all humanity.

World Heritage Sites in Colombia

Images and Descriptions

Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena

Explore one of the most extensive and complete military fortifications in South America. This vibrant Caribbean port city boasts a stunning historic center, colonial architecture, and a rich history of trade and conflict, beautifully preserved within its iconic walls.

Los Katíos National Park

A bridge of biodiversity between Central and South America, this park is an area of exceptional natural diversity. It protects vast wetlands, tropical rainforests, and hills, providing a habitat for numerous threatened animal species and unique flora.

Historic Centre of Santa Cruz de Mompox

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved colonial town on the Magdalena River. Mompox is famed for its unique riverside Spanish colonial architecture and its crucial role as a commercial hub and mint during Spanish rule.

National Archeological Park of Tierradentro

Discover monumental pre-Hispanic underground burial chambers (hypogea) unique in the Americas. Decorated with intricate geometric and anthropomorphic patterns, these tombs offer a fascinating glimpse into the funerary customs and social structure of an ancient Andean culture.

San Agustín Archaeological Park

Home to the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in Latin America. This sacred landscape features hundreds of statues representing gods and mythical animals, standing as a testament to the creativity of a mysterious northern Andean culture.

Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary

A world-class diving destination, this remote oceanic island and its surrounding waters are a critical marine habitat. It’s renowned for massive congregations of sharks, including hammerheads and silky sharks, making it a “living laboratory” for scientific research.

Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia

An exceptional example of a sustainable and productive cultural landscape. This region showcases a century-old tradition of coffee growing on steep mountainsides, with picturesque fincas (farms), unique architecture, and a deep-rooted cultural identity.

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System

An extraordinary road network built by the Inca Empire over centuries. This transnational site, spanning six countries, was the backbone of the empire’s communication, trade, and defense, connecting mountain peaks, valleys, and coastal deserts.

Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar”

Colombia’s largest national park and a site of immense natural and cultural importance. It features spectacular tabletop mountains (tepuis) and contains the world’s largest collection of ancient rock art, depicting jaguars, ceremonies, and hunting scenes.