Discover the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Colombia with this perfect 10-day itinerary. From bustling cities to serene coffee plantations, this guide will help you experience the very best of Colombia's hidden gems.
Let me take you to 3 of the most amazing destinations in Colombia π¨π΄
My suggestion is (all details below):
Days 1-3: Coffee Triangle
- Day 1: Arrival at the Coffee Triangle
- Day 2: Cocora Valley and Salento
- Day 3: Coffee Tour and Traditional Towns (Filnadia & Pijao)
Days 4-6: Cartagena de Indias
- Day 4: Travel to Cartagena (by plane) and first impressions
- Day 5: Colonial Cartagena
- Day 6: GetsemanΓ and San Felipe Castle
Days 7-10: Tayrona National Natural Park
- Day 7: Travel to Tayrona Park (by car) and jungle relaxation
- Day 8: CaΓ±averal Beach, Natural Pool & Cabo San Juan Beach
- Day 9: Crystal Beach or Palomino area + tubing
- Day 10: Return
The Coffee Triangle, or "Eje Cafetero," in Colombia is a picturesque region known for its lush coffee plantations, rolling hills, and vibrant culture. It encompasses the departments of Caldas, QuindΓo, and Risaralda, with key towns like Manizales, Armenia, and Pereira serving as gateways to the region's iconic coffee farms and breathtaking landscapes.
- By Road: Buses and private cars are options from major Colombian cities. From BogotΓ‘, it takes approximately 6-8 hours by car, depending on the destination within the triangle.
Best Season to Visit
Ideal Time: December to March and July to September are the best months for a visit due to the drier weather. These periods offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring coffee farms, hiking in the Cocora Valley, and enjoying the region's natural beauty. But you can visit any time of the year, the jungle is also more mysterious with rain, and rains often disappear during the day.
* Coffee Harvest: For those interested in witnessing the coffee harvest, plan a visit around April to May or October to December when the coffee beans are typically picked.
HOTELS - HACIENDAS
The Coffee Triangle in Colombia is not only famous for its exceptional coffee but also for its stunning traditional haciendas set amidst lush, mountainous landscapes. Many of these haciendas have been transformed into boutique hotels, offering visitors an immersive experience in the heart of coffee country. Staying at one of these haciendas means waking up to the sound of nature, enjoying the views of coffee plantations, and exploring the culture and heritage of coffee production.These hacienda-hotels combine luxury and tradition, often featuring colonial architecture, wooden beams, and charming balconies overlooking the countryside. Guests can take part in exclusive coffee tours, savor gourmet meals, and relax in beautiful gardens or by the pool. Each hacienda provides a unique glimpse into Colombia's coffee culture while offering all the comforts of a high-end hotel, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a refined and authentic travel experience.Β
A luxurious eco-friendly retreat surrounded by nature, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. It's perfect for those looking to disconnect while enjoying modern amenities and unique architecture.
Nestled near the stunning Cocora Valley, this boutique hotel blends traditional Colombian design with luxury. It provides a peaceful escape with spectacular views and personalized service.
Known for its charming, colonial-style ambiance, this boutique hotel in Pereira offers a blend of comfort and elegance. Guests can enjoy relaxing gardens, cozy rooms, and a variety of exclusive experiences.
A traditional coffee hacienda that doubles as a boutique hotel, providing an immersive coffee culture experience. Set amidst lush plantations, it offers guided tours and the chance to learn the art of Colombian coffee-making.
A luxurious lodge that embodies the spirit of the Coffee Triangle, featuring beautifully designed rooms and stunning natural surroundings. Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation combined with adventure and cultural immersion.
Home to the towering wax palms, Colombia's national tree, Cocora Valley offers breathtaking landscapes perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts. It's an unmissable spot for those wanting to experience the stunning beauty of the Coffee Triangle.
A charming, colorful town known for its vibrant streets, artisan shops, and traditional coffee culture. Salento is the gateway to the Cocora Valley and provides a mix of local food, music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
A tranquil and picturesque village known for its slow-paced lifestyle, Pijao offers a unique escape into Colombia's coffee culture. Recognized for its commitment to "slow travel," it invites visitors to explore its charming streets and connect with the local community.
A fusion of Colombian and international cuisine with a boho-chic atmosphere. Their menu focuses on local ingredients and offers both traditional and gourmet dishes. The setting is charming, with rustic decor and beautiful views of the mountains.
A favorite in Filandia, Helena Adentro offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a creative twist on Colombian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its eclectic decor, lively atmosphere, and delicious cocktails. It's a great place to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed, bohemian setting.
Nestled in the Cocora Valley, this restaurant offers traditional Colombian dishes, such as grilled trout, with a farm-to-table approach. The outdoor seating area surrounded by nature creates a magical and serene dining experience.
Offers a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere with a menu that combines Colombian and international flavors. Their dishes are beautifully plated, and they use fresh, local ingredients to ensure a top-notch culinary experience.
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Days 3-6 Cartagena de Indias
Please clic below to access my specific guide of Cartagena de Indias:
Tayrona National Natural Park is one of Colombia's most stunning natural wonders, located on the Caribbean coast near the city of Santa Marta. The park is known for its breathtaking landscapes, which combine lush tropical rainforests, stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the towering Sierra Nevada mountains. It is also a region rich in biodiversity, home to various species of wildlife, including howler monkeys, iguanas, and a diverse range of birds. Tayrona is not just about nature; it also has a deep cultural significance. The park is part of the ancestral territory of the Indigenous communities of the area, such as the Kogi, Arhuaco, and Wiwa, who consider the land sacred. Visitors can explore its beautiful trails, swim in secluded beaches like Cabo San Juan, and even learn about the Indigenous cultures that have inhabited the region for centuries. This combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Tayrona an unforgettable destination in Colombia. Β
BEFORE you close your itinerary and buy your flights, make sure to check this website, as this National Park has unexpected closure dates:
Gateway to Taytona National Park, if you are flying in
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*If you are following my suggested itinerary I would recommend to hire a driver to take you by road from Cartagena to Santa Marta. You can fly from Santa Marta to BogotΓ‘ (and then back home) on your way out.
Peaceful beachside retreat. The property features rustic, eco-friendly architecture, blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature. It's perfect for guests seeking relaxation, direct access to the beach, and proximity to the park's natural beauty.
Nestled in lush tropical gardens, Senda Watapuy provides an oasis of tranquility with its unique thatched-roof design and modern comforts. The hotel features an inviting pool and relaxing spaces, ideal for those looking to unwind amidst nature. It's an excellent base for exploring Tayrona Park and the nearby beaches. Access to the sister hotel's spa at Koguiwa!
A secluded eco-lodge located close to Tayrona National Park, Senda Koguiwa is designed with an emphasis on sustainability and cultural heritage. The traditional architecture and natural surroundings offer a serene escape for nature lovers and those who wish to experience the region's cultural richness.
Known for its cozy, circular bungalows with thatched roofs, this hotel combines traditional design with luxury. The rooms are designed to provide an intimate connection with nature, and guests can enjoy beautiful views from private terraces. The tranquil setting makes it a perfect place for relaxation and escaping the bustle of more tourist-heavy areas. While not directly in the national park, its proximity allows easy access to park activities.
The main attraction of this area. You might want to stay here all the time...
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You need to hire a driver at the hotel to take you to the entrance of Tayrona National Park (hotels usually provide this upon request) and drop you off at the path leading to the beaches. The driver will pick you up at the same spot at an agreed time before the park closes.
The idea is to walk all day (as cars are not allowed inside) from one beach to another; they are all spectacular. The beaches suitable for swimming tend to be more crowded, while the wilder ones have fewer people, but all are impressive and worth visiting as many as time allows .Itβs ideal to start early in the morning, as you will walk quite a bit, and the earlier you arrive at the beaches, the fewer people there will be. This also maximizes your time in the park!
Since food options are limited and can be a bit expensive, it's a good idea to bring snacks or light food, like fruits, sandwiches, nuts, or energy bars. If you have dietary restrictions or are very particular about your diet, it is advisable to bring your own food. Make sure to bring enough drinking water, although there are some spots where you can buy it. Remember that Tayrona Park is a protected natural reserve, so it's vital to collect all your trash and dispose of it properly to preserve the ecosystem.
The beaches and the natural surroundings of Tayrona Park are stunning, and although the facilities can be basic, the experience of being there is unique.
One of the first beaches you come across upon entering the park. It has strong currents, so caution is advised.Playa Arrecifes: Although itβs one of the most beautiful beaches, swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. However, the landscape is incredible and well worth a visit.
Probably the most famous and photographed beach in the park. It has camping areas, hammocks, and a restaurant. Itβs an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the Caribbean's beauty
One of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Tayrona National Park. As its name suggests, it is famous for its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. It's an excellent place for snorkeling due to the clarity of the water. It is a bit more secluded, with limited access to preserve the environment, so itβs usually not as crowded as other beaches in the park.
Palomino is a charming coastal village located on Colombia's northern Caribbean coast, nestled between the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains and the turquoise sea. It has become a popular destination for those seeking a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and immersive nature experiences.
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Palomino is known for its bohemian vibe, with cozy guesthouses, eco-lodges, and small boutique hotels. The beaches are wide and sandy, perfect for lounging, while the waves attract surfers. The area also offers easy access to cultural experiences with the local Indigenous communities and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park for hiking and exploring. The best time to visit is between December and April, during the dry season.
One of the must-do activities in Palomino is river tubing. This adventure starts with a short hike through lush jungle trails, where you'll be greeted by the stunning biodiversity of the Sierra Nevada. Once you reach the river, you hop onto a tube and drift down the serene Palomino River. The experience is both relaxing and exhilarating, as you float along gentle rapids surrounded by breathtaking sceneryβdense jungle, majestic mountain views, and abundant wildlife. The tubing ends where the river meets the Caribbean Sea, offering a unique view of the coast and a refreshing swim in the ocean.
Hey, I'm Sara!
Luxury Travel Designer / Travel Content Creator / Passionate Traveler
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I'm a Spanish expat living in Chile with my husband and 3 kids. 16 years ago, we lived in Mexico City, then in Madrid, later in Boston (USA), and currently (for the past +5 years) we've been in Santiago, Chile. I've traveled to +44 countries (many of them multiple times) and I don't want to stop βοΈ
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