Colombia is a country of varied landforms, and lies in the northwest part of the continent of South America. It is susceptible to persistent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
One can experience different climatic conditions while visiting the Colombian Andes. Bogota, the capital of Colombia is situated on an elevated plateau in the Andes, hence the weather is chilly. Temperate climate envelopes the cities at an average altitude. Low-lying areas, on the other hand, are warm.
the Caribbean lowlands join the Pacific lowlands in the west. This western coastline is isolated from all the other places by the western Andes.
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Andean Highlands are divided into three ranges — Cordillera Occidental or the western range, Cordillera Central or the central range, and Cordillera Oriental or the eastern range. There are two rivers that flow through the Andes. River Magdalena flows between the central as well as the eastern Andes, while River Cauca flows between the central and western Andes.
The eastern part of Coloumbia comprises sparsely inhabited plains. The southern part of the eastern region being in the Amazon River basin is wet and receives tropical rainfall. Whereas the plains (llanos) dominate the northern portion of the eastern region. These plains are made up of grasslands, and are partially dry and windy with seasonal flooding.
The northern comprises of the coastal region along the Caribbean. Being a coastline, this landform is made up of swamps. This region houses Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta — the country’s tallest mountain group. The Caribbean region has hot climate but receives heavy rainfall during monsoons.
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Culture
The Spaniards invaded Colombia in the 1600s. Hence Spanish is spoken by 99% of the population. Since the invaders completely dominated Colombia, Spanish culture can be noticed by one and all in the Colombian cities. Colombia eventually gained independence in the 19th century. The country is also made up of African, European, and native people. Hence, the European style can be seen in the church of Santa Barbara.
Handicrafts are famous in this part of the world. In addition, the museums, theatre and art galleries find a special mention.
As far as music goes, Vallenato (meaning “born in the valley”) is a form of folk music in Colombia. Its origins can be traced in the valley between the two mountains Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Serrania de Perija. In the past, Vallenato was a way of circulating messages to people by singing them, accompanied by an accordion and a small drum.
Cuisine
Colombian food varies significantly depending on the region and climate of each place. For instance, in the Caribbean coastal region, people consume more fish and lobster. Coconut is also a part of their cuisine. Considering the chilly weather in Bogota in the Andes region, ajiaco is popular — a soup prepared with chicken, three kinds of potatoes, and herbs. People from the plains consume barbecued meat. Since the Amazon basin is close to Brazil and Peru in the south, the cuisine of this region is also inspired by the traditions of these countries.