Colombia is the wettest country in the world when it comes to rainfall, beating Panama, Costa Rica and Malaysia.
The South American country which recently played host to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle receives an average precipitation level of 3,240 millimetres in a year, according to World Bank data.
This is more than Costa Rica’s 2,926mm, Panama’s 2,928mm and Malaysia’s 2,875mm, World Bank figures show.
Colombia is divided into six regions, shares borders with Venezuela, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador besides boasting a Caribbean Sea coast as well as a Pacific coastline.
Lonely Planet hails Colombia for its striking landscapes, ranging from summits in the Andes mountains to unspoiled coastlines, “enigmatic” jungles and archaeological ruins.
Among its most noteworthy sites are Piedra del Peñol – a 200m high granite monolith, Cartagena’s Old Town neighbourhood, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress and Reserva Natural Cañon de RÃo Claro private nature reserve.
The country had a reputation for violent and organised crime, but order is well-established now, with more international visitors adding Colombia to their tours of South America.
Tropical island Providencia is ideal for snorkelling; Cali is a magnet for salsa fans while carnival fans should head to Barranquilla, which holds annual celebrations.
Coffee-lovers will want to visit Colombia’s Zona Cafetera, where tours of the country’s coffee fincas can be found among the region’s lush hills.
For a complete contrast to the country’s verdant parts, head to La Guajira, a desert peninsula which extends into the Caribbean Sea and offers stunning views of dunes at Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas.
Star-gazers may want to consider the Tatacoa Desert, which is famed for the clearness of its night sky.
Air China, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, All Nippon Airways, Emirates and Avianca all fly direct to Colombia.
The cheapest month to fly to Colombia is currently January, according to Skyscanner.
You are most likely to fly non-stop to Bogota from the UK, with the best price Skyscanner found for a return flight to Colombia priced at £427, though this is subject to change and availability.
The average flight time between London and Bogota is 10 hours and 58 minutes, according to Skyscanner.