On April 28, 2016, same-sex marriage became legal in Colombia.
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Known worldwide for its diverse landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and abundance of charming cities, the South American country of Colombia has risen to stardom in recent years, with tourists from around the world flocking to its Caribbean coast and inland mountains. What’s more, this vast country has become a highly attractive destination, especially for LGBTQ+ visitors. Colombia’s major cities are home to a variety of queer-friendly spaces for visitors to enjoy, and citizens are also granted the right to same-sex marriage, the right for same-sex couples to adopt children, and the option for adults to legally change their gender, each of which solidifies Colombia’s status as one of the most progressive countries in South America when it comes to queer issues.
While Colombia is an easy country to explore solo, there are several tour operators that specialize in LGBTQ-specific tourism. When it comes to planning thorough, in-depth explorations of Colombia from the perspective of the local queer community, few companies can match OUT in Colombia. Formally founded in 2016, the company specializes in creating detailed itineraries that highlight the richness of Colombia’s LGBTQ+ scene, with each trip also incorporating luxury hotels, top-notch restaurants, and plenty of cultural activities. Participants can book a standard tour package or create a custom itinerary, but when it comes to Colombia’s must-visit city for queer travelers, founder Sam Castaneda Holdren singles out one destination in particular:
Medellín is the capital of the Colombian department of Antioquia.
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“Medellín is a perfect example: a city that embraces its past and offers visitors a truly unique experience that highlights its transition,” says Castañeda Holdren. “Since the peace accords were signed in 2016, Medellín has seen an explosion of queer culture. The gay nightlife is exciting and welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of community among LGBTQ+ people supported by inclusive public policies…Medellín is a place where you can really relax and be yourself.”
Castañeda Holdren cites the annual Medellín Pride Parade, a vibrant event that draws tens of thousands of participants each year, and drag venues like Bar Chiquita as two big reasons to visit Medellín, but of course Medellín isn’t the only city included in Colombia’s OUT program. The city of Santa Marta on the country’s Caribbean coast is particularly popular for its proximity to the picturesque Tayrona National Park, and the capital city of Bogotá has developed a large queer scene over the years, with Ciatron drawing large numbers of locals and tourists every weekend. With 19 unique rooms, the famous nightclub is considered one of the largest gay clubs in the world, and guests flock there in droves on Saturdays to enjoy a diverse selection of music along with weekly drag shows.
Traveling can be stressful in many ways, and vacationing as part of a marginalized community can make the journey exponentially more difficult. But when it comes to South American countries, Colombia’s major cities offer a particularly tolerant environment that’s perfect for gay visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the country’s hottest nightclubs, discover the pristine beauty of its national parks, find your new favorite cuisine, or experience all three in one day, both Colombia and OUT in Colombia are sure to provide you with a truly memorable experience that’s both welcoming and captivating.
