Popular Sports to Play in Colombia

Published on October 23, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Colombia is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of captivating landscapes and a vibrant sports culture.

From the majestic Andes mountains to the lush Amazon rainforests, opportunities for various sports are endless, attracting both locals and travelers seeking adventure.

In this context, certain sports have carved out a special place in Colombians’ hearts, such as fútbol, which transcends social classes and is passionately experienced on every street corner, along with tejo, a traditional game with ancient origins that promises a unique experience while being an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the country’s cultural richness.

Whether you’re a fan of water sports along the sparkling coasts, a hiking enthusiast exploring fascinating trails, or simply seeking an authentic local sports immersion, Colombia presents an exceptional playground where adrenaline and discovery go hand in hand.

Must-Try Sports in Colombia

Soccer is undoubtedly the most popular sport in Colombia. It sets the rhythm of daily life, brings together all generations, and animates public squares during important matches. Legendary stadiums like Estadio El Campín in Bogotá or the Metropolitano in Barranquilla vibrate with the sound of supporters. Club rivalries, particularly those between Medellín’s Atlético Nacional and Bogotá’s Millonarios, are an integral part of the local sports culture. Throughout the country, it’s easy to join a pickup game or attend a high-level match.

Cycling

Colombia enjoys an international reputation thanks to exceptional cyclists like Nairo Quintana and Egan Bernal, winner of the Tour de France. The country’s mountainous geography provides ideal training ground for climbers. Cities like Medellín and Bogotá regularly host stages of national and international competitions. For enthusiasts, the “Ruta de los Ciclistas” around Boyacá and the winding roads of Antioquia are must-dos for experiencing Colombian-style cycling.

Tejo: Indigenous Heritage

Tejo is the quintessential traditional sport, recognized as part of Colombia’s intangible cultural heritage. Originating from the Muiscas, it combines camaraderie and skill. The goal: throw a metal disc at a clay target filled with powder packets that explode upon impact, creating a festive atmosphere. Tejo can be found everywhere, particularly in Bogotá, Boyacá (Turmequé, the game’s birthplace), and numerous specialized bars.

Element	Description
Origin	Pre-Columbian, Muisca people
Equipment	Metal disc (*tejo*), clay target, powder packets
Objective	Hit the target and trigger an explosion
Iconic Locations	Bogotá, Turmequé (Boyacá), tejo bars nationwide
Fun Fact	Tejo is often played with beer or chicha

Tejo isn’t just a sport—it’s a social ritual blending friendly competition and ancestral traditions.

Adventure Sports

Colombia is a privileged playground for thrill-seekers.

Among the most popular activities:

• Paragliding in Bucaramanga: Nicknamed the “South American paragliding capital,” Bucaramanga attracts enthusiasts from around the world. Launches from Cañón del Chicamocha offer spectacular valley panoramas.
• Rafting on the Rio Negro: The whitewaters of Rio Negro in Santander region are perfect for rafting, accessible to both beginners and experienced adventurers.
• Hiking, Canyoning, Diving: San Gil is recognized as Colombia’s extreme sports capital. On the Caribbean coast, Taganga and the Tayrona Park area are prized for scuba diving.

List of Iconic Locations to Discover These Sports:

• Bogotá: tejo courts, soccer stadiums, urban bike lanes
• Medellín: mountain roads for cycling, soccer matches at Atanasio Girardot Stadium
• Boyacá: Turmequé (tejo birthplace), legendary cycling routes
• Bucaramanga: paragliding at Cañón del Chicamocha
• San Gil: rafting, canyoning, paragliding
• Barranquilla: soccer at Metropolitano Stadium
• Santander Region: rafting on Rio Negro

Cultural Anecdotes:

• Tejo was once used by the Muiscas to settle conflicts or celebrate unions.
• Colombians enjoy accompanying tejo with cold beer or chicha, a traditional fermented drink.
• When cyclists achieve major victories, their hometowns organize popular celebrations.

In Colombia, sports serve as a vehicle for social connection, pride, and cultural discovery—an absolute must-experience during your stay in the country.

Where to Enjoy Your Favorite Sport: Best Places to Train

Soccer (Fútbol)

Colombia’s iconic stadiums, particularly in Bogotá and Medellín, offer high-level infrastructure accessible to amateurs and professionals alike:

City	Stadium	Capacity	Resident Clubs	Features & Competitions
Bogotá	El Campín (Nemesio Camacho)	42,000	Millonarios, Independiente Santa Fe	Hosts national team matches, intense atmosphere during local derbies
Medellín	Atanasio Girardot	44,826	Atlético Nacional, Independiente Medellín	Major sports complex, museums, host of Copa América, U20 World Cup, Clásico Paisa
Medellín	Polideportivo Sur (Envigado)	14,000	Envigado FC	Modern stadium, easy metro access
Medellín	Ditaires (Itagüí)	12,000	Itagüí Leones	Panoramic views, second division matches
Barranquilla	Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez	49,612	Atlético Junior	Major international matches, Caribbean atmosphere

• Tickets are generally affordable (from 10,000 to 50,000 COP depending on category and match).
• Main stadiums are served by public transportation (metro in Medellín, Transmilenio in Bogotá).
• Facilities include shops, sports museums, VIP areas, and family zones.

Cycling

Colombia is a cycling hub, both for road and mountain biking. The Boyacá and Medellín regions are renowned for their circuits and local/international competitions:

Region	Famous Circuits & Routes	Competitions & Accessibility	Available Facilities
Boyacá	Alto de Letras, Tunja roads	Vuelta a Colombia, Tour de Boyacá	Cycling clubs, bike rentals, repair workshops
Medellín	Las Palmas Circuit, Alto de Minas	Clásica de El Carmen, Tour de Antioquia	Urban bike lanes, mountain access, specialized shops

• Enthusiasts can join organized rides or train freely on marked routes.
• Presence of guides, workshops, and supply points in main cycling areas.
• Professionals use these routes to prepare for major international competitions.

Surfing

Colombia’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts offer internationally renowned surf spots suitable for all levels:

Coast	Iconic Spots	Level	Local Competitions	Facilities & Accessibility
Pacific	Nuquí, El Valle, Termales	All	National championships, local events	Surf schools, board rentals, eco-friendly accommodations, boat/plane access
Caribbean	Cartagena, Santa Marta, Palomino	Beginner to Intermediate	Surf festivals, junior competitions	Surf shops, schools, beachfront accommodations, easy road access

• Best surfing seasons: December to April on Pacific coast, July to September on Caribbean coast.
• Numerous clubs and schools offer beginner lessons and equipment rental.
• Competitions attract both local and international talent, fostering a unique blend of cultures and styles.

Summary of Benefits for Amateurs and Professionals:

• Modern, well-maintained infrastructure often renovated for international events.
• Accessibility through public transportation and facilities suitable for all levels.
• Strong sports culture, festive atmosphere during competitions, and warm welcome for visitors.

Colombia stands out for the diversity and quality of its sports venues, allowing everyone to have an authentic experience, whether in a legendary stadium, on a mountain road, or amidst tropical waves.

Planning Your Sports Budget as an Expat in Colombia

Average Cost Assessment for Popular Sports Club Memberships in Colombia

Activity	Monthly Fee (COP)	Monthly Fee (€)	International Comparison
Soccer	100,000 – 250,000	22 – 55	Europe: 40 – 90 €
Cycling	80,000 – 200,000	18 – 45	France: 30 – 60 €
Dance	60,000 – 150,000	13 – 33	Europe: 25 – 50 €
Trekking	50,000 – 120,000	11 – 26	Europe: 20 – 40 €

In Colombia, membership fees are generally more affordable than in Europe or North America.

Cost of Purchasing or Renting Sports Equipment

• Soccer:
  • Purchase: Ball 40,000 – 120,000 COP; shoes 120,000 – 350,000 COP; outfit 80,000 – 200,000 COP
  • Field rental: 60,000 – 180,000 COP/hour
• Cycling:
  • Purchase: Road bike 800,000 – 2,500,000 COP; helmet 100,000 – 250,000 COP; gloves/jersey 80,000 – 200,000 COP
  • Bike rental: 50,000 – 120,000 COP/day
• Dance:
  • Purchase: Specialized shoes 80,000 – 180,000 COP; outfits 60,000 – 150,000 COP
• Trekking:
  • Purchase: Hiking boots 120,000 – 350,000 COP; backpack 100,000 – 300,000 COP; poles 50,000 – 120,000 COP
  • Equipment rental: rare, but possible through local agencies (from 50,000 COP/day)

Tips for Buying Affordable Sports Equipment

• Prioritize local markets and specialized stores: Decathlon (Bogota, Medellín), Sportline, neighborhood shops.
• Explore Facebook groups and expat forums for used equipment.
• Use local online platforms: MercadoLibre, OLX Colombia.
• Shop outside major cities for lower prices, especially for trekking and cycling gear.

Maximizing Free or Low-Cost Sports Activities

• Enjoy municipal parks: soccer fields, bike lanes, outdoor dance spaces often free.
• Participate in “Ciclovía” (street closures to cars on Sundays in major cities).
• Join WhatsApp or Facebook groups to organize hiking or soccer outings with other expats.
• Use local mobile apps to find free sports events.

Recommendations for Participating in Local Events or Competitions

• Register for popular cycling or running races (e.g., Medellín Marathon, Gran Fondo Colombia).
• Join amateur soccer tournaments organized by neighborhood clubs.
• Explore dance festivals and local competitions, often open to non-professionals.
• Contact local trekking agencies for group excursions with group rates.
• Stay informed through expat associations and sports groups on social media to not miss anything.

List of Practical Tips for an Optimized Sports Budget in Colombia

• Systematically compare prices online and in stores.
• Negotiate when buying used equipment.
• Prioritize quarterly or annual subscriptions for discounts.
• Pool equipment purchases with other expats (group buying).
• Register early for sports events to benefit from “early bird” rates.
• Ask locals for recommendations to avoid tourist traps.