Top5 Amazing Facts About Colombia That Will Shock You

Are you ready to know amazing facts about colombia, a country with unique customs. Where Rolex watches must be hidden, iPhones 13 are banned, and Uber operates secretly. People celebrate over 1,000 festivals, play the national anthem twice daily, wear reversed yellow underwear for luck, and chew 12 grapes on New Year’s Eve. So let’s begin to explore these unique cultural secrets.

5) Wedding Night

One of the amazing facts about colombia is that in many rural areas of Colombia, a wedding custom requires the bride’s mother to be present on the wedding night. This tradition is based on local beliefs that the mother can provide support and guidance, especially since the couple may lack sexual experience. The mother may sit in the room or listen outside the door to help ensure the marriage starts off well. 

A study from 2019 found that about 12 to 14% of women in these regions experienced this supervision, with nearly 80% feeling embarrassment or a loss of confidence as a result. While younger generations in cities oppose this custom, viewing it as an invasion of privacy, it still persists in conservative villages due to community expectations.

4) Tayrona National Natural Park

One of the amazing facts about colombia is that in Colombia’s Tayrona National Natural Park, there is a special place known as Bokeh del Sako, where visitors can enjoy a clothing-free experience. This spot offers beautiful surroundings, including the Caribbean Sea and lush forests, allowing people to feel free and relaxed without restrictions on appearance. Many visitors describe the atmosphere as one of total respect and personal freedom. 

According to a 2023 tourism report, about 20% of international visitors to Tayrona Park in this clothing-free activity, mainly drawn in by the area’s natural vibe. Local residents support this practice as long as everyone respects privacy, maintains peace, and connects with nature in a meaningful way.

3) Rights

One of the amazing facts about colombia is that in Colombia, rivers and forests have legal rights similar to people, allowing them to be sued. The Colombian Constitutional Court recognized this in 2016 by granting legal personhood to the Atrato River, which can now act as a plaintiff against those who harm it. A council, including government and indigenous representatives, was set up to protect its rights. 

In 2018, the Amazon rainforest gained similar rights after young people successfully sued the government for climate change. Colombia became the first Latin American country to legally protect the environment through human rights, inspiring other countries. However, environmental protection enforcement is still lacking, with inadequate funding and ongoing illegal exploitation.

2) Drink

One of the amazing facts about colombia is that in Colombia, drinking beer outdoors is illegal. Carrying a bottle or can while walking on the street can lead to fines if you are not in a licensed establishment. Although beer is cheap and widely available, public drinking is banned to keep urban areas orderly and reduce drunkenness. 

Enforcement of this law varies; police may overlook drinking in quiet neighborhoods but are strict in busy areas like Bogotá or Cali, especially where tourists are present. In such locations, simply opening a beer can attract police attention, resulting in warnings or fines, which can range from 100,000 to 300,000 pesos.

1) New Year

One of the amazing facts about colombia is that in Colombia, celebrating New Year’s Eve involves several unique customs beyond just counting down and fireworks. This country is known for its superstitions related to good luck. One popular tradition is wearing bright yellow underwear, which is believed to bring love and happiness. To activate its luck, you must wear it inside out until midnight, then turn it right side out after the clock strikes twelve. 

Another custom is eating 12 grapes within 12 seconds at midnight, with each grape representing a month and a wish. Additionally, many Colombians carry lentils in their pockets to attract financial prosperity. A survey shows that over 68% of Colombians continue these traditions, even in modern cities.