Colombia is a country rich in culture, history, and has some of the most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Colombia has something to offer for everyone. In this ultimate Colombia itinerary, 

This guide includes a 7-day, 10-day, and 14-day option to help you make the most of your time in this diverse and vibrant South American destination. 

Bogotá, Bogota, Colombia

Medellín, Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia

Cocora Valley, Vía al Valle de Cocora, Salento, Quindio, Colombia

Colombia

Salento, Quindio, Colombia

Isla Rosario, Colombia

Cartagena, Cartagena Province, Bolivar, Colombia

The Ultimate Colombia Itinerary

From the coffee region, you can end your 7 day Colombia trip exploring Cartagena, the city on the Caribbean coast with an authentic experience.

While back in Salento, you can also discover the coffee-making process on a plantation tour. Choose one or more of the local coffee farms to learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. 

If you have time within your Colombia itinerary, and want
to escape from the city, embark on an unforgettable day
trip to Guatapé. The tour will bring you to the iconic Piedra del
Peñol, a massive monolith with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding
landscape. Here, you will be able to climb the 740 steps to the top for an
awe-inspiring view of the Guatapé Dam and its picturesque islands. 

When in Salento, head to the main square, Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by
colorful colonial architecture. Relax in a local café and soak in the laid-back
atmosphere. Explore the
craft shops and galleries around the square. You can also visit the viewpoint
at Mirador
Alto de la Cruz for
panoramic views of the surroundings. It’s really fun to visit all the
shops in Salento and discover the vibrant street art and capturing the essence
of Colombian culture.       

How many days should I spend in Colombia?

Colombia’s diverse attractions require thoughtful planning to truly experience the essence of the country. From bustling cities to serene beaches and lush rainforests, I recommend the following durations for your Colombian adventure:

- 7 Days: Ideal for a exploring Colombia’s highlights.

4. Guatapé: Climb the iconic rock of El Peñol for panoramic views of the stunning Guatapé reservoir.

Colombia offers some of the most enriching experiences. Here are some must-visit places and activities:

2.	Coffee Triangle: Explore the picturesque coffee region and learn about Colombia’s rich coffee culture

3. Tayrona National Park: Relax
on pristine beaches surrounded by lush jungle – a perfect blend of nature and
tranquility.      

- 10 Days: A more comprehensive trip, including deeper immersion in different regions.

- 14 Days: Perfect for those seeking a well-rounded experience

Colombia’s climate varies by region, so the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Generally, the dry season from December to March is considered optimal. However, Colombia’s diverse geography means you can visit at any time!

1. Cartagena’s Old Town: Immerse yourself in the colonial charm, vibrant streets, and historic architecture.

Start with exploring Medellin and getting familiar with Colombia, its culture and its people and traditions.

You can start your trip right away with a visit to Comuna 13, a neighborhood that has
undergone a remarkable transformation. I highly recommend taking a guided tour (link at the bottom) to learn about the vibrant
street art, intricate murals, and get an appreciation of the community’s
inspiring resilience. From the top you will have an amazing view of Medellin as
well.       

Head to Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a traditional Antioquian village perched atop Nutibara Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Medellín, stroll through the charming square, and visit the small museum to understand the region’s cultural heritage.



Discover the historical center of Medellín, known as Candelaria. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and explore the surrounding streets filled with colonial architecture. Explore the Botero Plaza, home to a collection of Fernando Botero’s sculptures. The voluptuous figures are iconic, and the plaza is a great spot for people-watching. 

In the evening, head to Parque Lleras in the heart of Poblado, where there are an array of restaurants and bars. The area comes alive at night with a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a night out on the town.

Savor local flavors at Mercado del Río, a trendy food market featuring a variety of culinary delights. Try traditional Colombian dishes or explore international options in a vibrant and bustling setting.

Visit the El Castillo Museum and Gardens – a gothic medieval castle surrounded by French gardens dating back to the 1930s.  

BONUS: Day Trip from Medellín to Guatapé

You can also take a boat tour on the tranquil
waters of the Guatapé Dam, also known as Embalse El Peñol. The boat ride
provides an opportunity to appreciate the unique landscapes and learn about the
history of the region. Visit Pablo Escobar’s former lakeside mansion, offering
insight into the area’s complex history. If you have time, stroll through
the town center and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Plaza de los
Zocalos, a lively square surrounded by shops and cafes.      

Guatape Tour from Medellin

To get to this region, you can take a short and quick flight to Pereira or Armenia and from there take a taxi to Salento. Salento is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Coffee Triangle and it’s where you would want to stay while visiting this region.

Visit the Willys Jeep station, where you can catch a traditional jeep ride to the Cocora Valley. Cocora Valley is definitely one of the best highlights of Colombia. Known for it’s towering wax palm trees, this is where you can embark on a scenic hike through the valley and enjoy the breathtaking views. The best time to visit in early in the morning so make sure you set your alarm.

When in Corora Valley, you can also visit the hummingbird sanctuary, where you can witness a variety of these colorful birds in their natural habitat.

Coffee farm tour

You can opt to stay within the historic city walls or in the artistic area of Getsemani. Each of these will give you a different experience but are both walking distance from one another. If you want to wandering through the historic Old Town, where many of the touristy shops, restaurants and bars are, then staying within the city walls is best. Here you can stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings.

Visit the iconic Plaza de Bolívar, home to the stunning Cartagena Cathedral and the Palace of the Inquisition. Delve into the local history by touring the Palace of the Inquisition, learning about the city’s colonial past.

Getsemaní is a vibrant neighbourhood,
known for its street art, lively atmosphere, and local markets. The
neighbourhood comes to life in the evening as everyone pours out into the
streets and enjoys the bars and pubs in the area. Visit the Plaza de la Trinidad, a popular gathering spot surrounded by bars and
restaurants.      

Take a guided tour to discover the street
art in Getsemaní, learning about the stories behind the murals.

Getsmani Tour

If you feel like wandering a bit outside of these two
areas, take a quick Uber ride to the nearby San
Felipe Castle, a historic fortress that played a crucial role in
protecting Cartagena from pirate attacks.      

BONUS: Day Trip from Cartagena to Rosario Islands

To get in some beach time in Colombia, you can embark on
a day trip to the Rosario Islands,
a pristine archipelago known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear
waters. 

The Rosario Islands comprise of 27
coral islands with most famous being Isla Barú. Playa Blanca here is
one of the most famous (but also busiest) beaches in the Rosario Islands. It
can be a great spot to relax on the beach, swim in the turquoise waters, and
soak up the sun. This is
also the place where you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at one of the local
beachside restaurants.

An option that many choose (and I did as well) is
to book a day trip to visit a resort. There are many to choose from depending
on what you are looking for. There are also various exclusive beach clubs that
you can spend a day at.       

But here are some
other trips you can consider: Bora Bora Beach club, 5-Island speedboat tour, Cholon
Beach, PAUE Beach Club, Amare
Beach Club, or Pao Pao Beach Club.    

5-Island speedboat tour

Begin your adventure in Bogota by immersing yourself in
the enchanting La
Candelaria neighborhood,
known for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Start your morning
at Plaza
Bolívar, the
city’s main square surrounded by significant landmarks like the Cathedral and
the Capitolio Nacional.      

If you’re a fan of going to museums, delve into Colombia’s rich history by exploring the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), housing an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. Afterward, appreciate the unique artistry of Fernando Botero at the Botero Museum (Museo Botero).

The Ultimate Colombia Itinerary

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