Golf in Bogota Colombia

Bueno Golf in Bogotá Colombia

As published in the February 2025 issue of Golf Central Magazine

By Dave Finn

Colombia may be the most underrated country in South America. After years of uncertainty, challenge and change, Columbia has emerged as the newest travel destination for curious travellers and naturalists. According to World Wildlife Magazine, Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, with ecosystems that range from the Andes mountains to Amazonian rainforests and oceans that border the country. These elements are part of what makes golfing here so exciting.

Bogota Street Art

Bogotá is the capital, with over 10 million inhabitants. It is the third-highest capital city in South America, at 8.600 feet above sea level. With average temperatures ranging from 45°F – 60°F, it’s cool in more ways than one, so make sure you bring extra layers of clothes. There are 20 courses within a 45-minute radius, but regrettably, I only had the opportunity to play four. Continue reading

Cali Colombia – Salsa Capital of the World

Dancing in the Streets

Join Jane as she dances her way through the Capital City of Valle del Cauca, Cali, in Colombia

by Jane Finn as published in Issue 29 of Planet Golf Review Magazine

Cali is hot, hot, hot in more ways than one, but before this trip, Columbia’s third largest city wasn’t even on my radar. A bit like Cinderella, she lives in the shadows of her sisters, Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Colombians who don’t hail from here consider her a bit gritty, not as charming as her siblings. But beneath the surface I discover a bold beauty and a wildly beating heart that strikes a chord within me. A place where I can easily find my rhythm.

Slowly I adjust to the heat and humidity. In comparison, Bogotá was much cooler and no matter the time of day, the roads were congested. Here traffic flows like the seven rivers that run through the city. And unlike Medellín, most of the heritage architecture has been preserved, often interspersed with modern apartment and office towers, creating an eclectic urban landscape.

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COLOMBIA GOLF COURSES STAND OUT INTERNATIONALLY

Award-winning Canadian journalists reveal Colombia’s unexpected golf paradise and cultural treasures.

As published in the September 9, 2024 issue of Nacion Golf

Renowned Canadian golf and travel journalists Dave and Jane Finn recently explored Colombia’s burgeoning golf scene, uncovering a hidden gem in the global golf tourism market . Their three-week trip, hosted by the country’s leading golf tour operator, Pelecanus, demonstrated Colombia’s potential to become a top-tier golf destination.

Dave Finn is a golf travel writer and photographer, with over 35 years’ experience in the industry as a member of several prestigious golf and travel media associations. Jane, meanwhile, is Features Editor for Planet Golf Review. Together, they have explored 35 countries, sharing their experiences in Golf Travel and Leisure Magazine, establishing themselves as authoritative voices in international golf tourism.

During their trip, the Finns explored the best golf courses in Bogotá, Cali, the Coffee Region and Medellín. They played at renowned clubs such as El Rincón de Cajicá, Briceño 18, La Cima, Farallones Golf Club, Club Campestre de Armenia and Club Campestre El Rodeo. In addition to golf, they immersed themselves in the rich culture and exquisite cuisine of Colombia.

Dave Finn expressed his admiration, stating: “ The courses in Colombia are world class, offering a diverse range of challenges. The landscapes are stunning , and each course presents a unique experience.” Jane Finn highlighted an unexpected moment from her trip, noting: “The Delirio salsa show in Cali was a delightful surprise. The pride and passion of the audience, as they sang ‘Cali Pachanguero’, was contagious. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a cultural celebration that made us feel part of something really special.”

The potential for golf tourism in Colombia is significant, with more than 50 top-class courses spread across diverse terrain, from the Andes mountain ranges to coastal areas. While many of these top-class courses are privately owned, specialist operators such as Pelecanus provide exclusive access to international visitors.

This unique offering, combined with Colombia’s rich culture and stunning landscapes, has sparked growing interest among golf enthusiasts around the world, positioning the country as an emerging destination in the global golf tourism market. In Dave’s words: “ For experienced golf travelers, Colombia is an intriguing destination that most have not considered before. The combination of great food, friendly people and quality accommodations makes it unique.”

Frank Spitzer, founder of Pelecanus, says: “ The golf scene in Colombia is ripe for discovery. We are excited to showcase to travelers from around the world the mix of quality golf and enriching cultural experiences that our country offers.”

To read the entire article visit https://naciongolf.com/los-campos-de-golf-colombianos-se-destacan-a-nivel-internacional/