If you’re a Netflix subscriber, you may already be familiar with the streamer’s latest foreign language outing, One Hundred Years of Solitude. The series, which premiered all 16 episodes of its first season on December 11, 2023, has already drawn many viewers thanks to its inventive storytelling, gripping characters, and gorgeous setting. It adapts the narrative of famed Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez’s 1967 novel of the same name, which sees seven generations of a close-knit family navigate the tender grasp of fate from the fictional town of Macondo.
Though the setting doesn’t exist off-screen, the locale offers a real frame of mind, which fans can embody during their next luxurious trip through Colombia. Luckily, we’ve got the inside scoop on One Hundred Years of Solitude‘s multiple filming locations, each offering beautiful views and exciting activities. Whether you’re a super fan of the newly released Netflix series, or simply seeking to broaden your horizons with an international vacation, this guide gives you the best tips for crafting your perfect Colombian itinerary.
La Guajira, Colombia
Key Scenes: Most scenes depicting Macondo show the small settlement situated along a vibrant riverbank, primarily filmed in the La Guajira department near Colombia’s breathtaking northern coastline. Nearby Magdalena also features as stand-in locations for several exterior wide shots, making both coastal neighborhoods well worth visiting during your trip to this stunning nation.
Best Time To Visit: Though Colombia is full of beautiful scenery and thrilling activities year-round, locals recommend visiting during the dry season from December through March. If you don’t mind paying extra for your hotel stay, think about booking your visit for mid-February when Carnival season is alive and buzzing!
Transportation Options: While buses traverse through the La Guajira area, it’s known to be somewhat off the beaten path. Major Colombian cities like Cartagena and Santa Marta offer multiple modes of transportation, such as taxis, boats, and rideshares. Visitors wanting to explore the primary shooting locations of One Hundred Years of Solitude should definitely rent a 4×4 vehicle for the most reliable travel.
Like many of Latin America’s greatest literary tales, One Hundred Years of Solitude captures the essence of magical realism, making Macondo truly pop on the screen. Whether you’re biting your nails at the plight of the Buendía family, or soaking up the surroundings as droves of newcomers flock to the fictional town, the series instills deep feelings of home, family values, and the undeniable reality of fate.
While the real-life settlement of Macondo doesn’t exist, the Caribbean shores of La Guajira and Magdalena serve as perfect stand-ins. Guests visiting these exceptional regions should definitely explore the lush sand dunes, indigenous fishing villages, and waterfront food vendors to get the most authentic North Colombian experience.
When booking your trip, you might find it easier to stay in larger cities like Santa Marta and venture out to La Guajira for day trips. Magdalena boasts vibrant nightlife, upscale restaurants, and trendy photo opportunities, offering fun adventures. Conversely, La Guajira is more rural, perfect for nature hikes and gorgeous beaches.
Things To Do: Beyond serving as the main shooting location for One Hundred Years of Solitude, La Guajira is home to some of Colombia’s finest scenic horseback rides and motorcycle tours. Nature lovers should check out the Seviaka Indigenous People Tubing Tour through the very rivers and waterfalls seen with the Buendía family. For other indulgences, the Sanctuary Los Flamingos Tour or souvenir shopping at El Mercado Nuevo promise unique experiences.
Where To Eat: Unlike many vacation destinations, the high-class eateries around La Guajira offer top-notch local flavors at budget-friendly prices. Some notable spots include Casa Cocotte Restaurante, Maria Mulata, and Restaurante Finca Escondida. For those desiring more adventure, fresh seafood can be had at Restaurante Yotojoro or Caribbean-influenced Mediterranean dishes from Pasaporte Caribe.
Where To Stay: Despite limited hotels within La Guajira, you're likely to find more centrally-located accommodations within Magdalena. Ocean-view rooms at Casa Verano Hotel Boutique, Hotel Irotama Lago, or the Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta offer incredible views. If you seek something more inland, check out Viajero Hostel Tayrona & Ecohabs for budget-friendly stays.
Cundinamarca, Colombia
Key Scenes: Although much of One Hundred Years of Solitude was filmed to the north, numerous scenes brought the Buendía clan south, particularly to Cundinamarca and Tolima, situated centrally and to the west of the picturesque nation.
Best Time To Visit: Similar to La Guajira, Cundinamarca is at its driest from late winter through spring, with tourism peaking from December through February.
Transportation Options: Unlike rural areas, Cundinamarca has a well-organized public transit system, allowing visitors to rely on buses, taxis, and Ubers during their stay. Renting cars or motorcycles is another option for those wishing to explore different filming areas.
For those not enamored with sandy beaches and crashing waves, Cundinamarca and neighboring departments like Tolima offer various indoor adventures, filled with wonderful scenery and thrilling options for solo travelers and families alike. Rock climbing is popular, with activities like cliff-jumping, spelunking, and cave exploration drawing thrill-seekers.
Things To Do: Visitors to Cundinamarca can enjoy some of the most fascinating geology, showcased at the Piedras del Tunjo Archaeological Park. This park offers leisurely strolls or bike rides past ancient cave art and rock formations over 65 million years old. Taking time to wander through the cities of Cundinamarca and Tolima reveals gorgeous architecture and vibrant night markets, including famous sites like Capilla Valvanera and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Fátima, attracting thousands every year.
Where To Eat: Restaurants here may be pricier than those found within Colombia's rural regions, but they still provide incredible value. Local favorites like Faunaticos Parque Tematico, Solomillo Restaurante, and Cafe La Huerta are must-tries, as well as trendy dining spots like Restaurante El Transportador, blending various culinary styles to satisfy every palate.
Where To Stay: Cundinamarca and Tolima offer luxury hotel options, with resorts like GHL Relax Hotel Club El Puente, Hotel Tocarema, and Anapoima Natura providing lavish havens, though none replicate the rugged charm of Macondo. You might stream it with style by booking cute bungalows at the Hotel Boutique Casa La Bisbal.
With all these breathtaking locations and activities inspired by One Hundred Years of Solitude, destination seekers and fans are sure to have the adventure of a lifetime!
