There are a few things you can't leave a country without trying. Here are our top picks for Colombia.

1. Ceviche

Colombia is synonymous with meat. Beef, pork, chicken, they love that shit (and so do we!). They even put it all together in the breakfast extravaganza that is Bandeja Paisa, which didn't make this list cause we actually didn't get around to trying it. Whoopsie. BUT, eating in the north is totally different. The best way to try the super fresh seafood on the Caribbean coast is as close to swimming as possible. Colombian ceviche isn't the same as Peruvian ceviche, so no excuses that you've gotten your fill. It's more savory, in a sauce that may or may not be made from a combination of ketchup and mayonnaise depending on where you get it. We'd recommend going big and visiting La Cevichería in Cartagena. Sure, it's popular, but for good reason. And once you're done, check out our article for lots of other yummy things to eat in the city.

2. Arroz de Coco

Another Caribbean specialty, this yummy, slightly sweet rice falls under the radar. Its served with nearly every hot seafood dish on the coast (at least if you ask for it) and makes the normally banal task of eating rice quite enjoyable. Really, it's delicious. Indulge at Espiritu Santo in Cartagena.

3. Arepas

You must've heard of arepas. Unlike their Venezuelan cousins, Colombian arepas are made of cornmeal and can be pounded into a variety of thicknesses and grilled, sauteed, or fried. Basically, there are a lot of arepas in Colombia. And for the most part, they're quite good. You'll find them on street corners and the cheese ones really fill the niche for in-between-meal snacks and drunken munchies. Fancier varieties, heaped with fresh vegetables, are fantastic if you can find them.

4. Trucha

Who knew that trout was a specialty of the coffee producing region called La Zona Cafetera. They thrive in alpine lakes and have since been farmed in sizable facilities, including ones you can visit in Salento and Jardín. You can get tons of varieties and you absolutely can't leave before trying at least one. Our favorite was at Restaurante Andrea in Salento. They have an insane creamy garlic tomato option that will put you out for days. We preferred the simple a la plancha version, usually accompanied by patacones and and fresh juice.

5. Coffee

Like we've talked about in other posts, most of Colombia's high quality coffee is exported to other countries, which is really unfortunate for a variety of reasons. We won't rant about it here, but in your case, it's unfortunate because it means it's hard to get the good stuff while you're actually in the country of origin. You still have a few options. First off, there is really good coffee in the cities. In particular, Azahar cafe in Bogotá is tasty and informative. Another fun option is touring a coffee farm. You'll get a little lesson and a cup or two. Finally, it really is worth it to drink Nescafe with the locals. It won't be for the taste, but the people watching in town squares is incredible. You can have some great chats over powdered coffee.

6. Lechona

Lechona might be the most impressive dish you've ever seen. Put bluntly, it's an entire pig stuffed with rice. There are crispy pork cracklings on the outside and with every order you'll get some mixed rice, a bit o skin, and some tender meat. It's the most fun to try it at street fairs and the like. At one market, we saw a vendor completely sell out three whole hogs!

7. Chocolate con Queso

This is one hundred percent the most comforting drink out there, particularly recommended after a long hike or a chilly evening in the mountains. The best places will set the hunk of squeeky cheese over the hot chocolate so it gets a bit melty and serve a biscuit on the side.

Which Colombian specialties did we miss? Comment below!