Embark on a breathtaking 18-day adventure through Colombia, starting on Thursday, February 1, 2024, and concluding on Sunday, February 18, 2024. This itinerary allows you to see the highlights of Bogota, Tayrona Park, Cocora Valley, Guatape, and Medellin, while also leaving plenty of time for relaxation and exploration. Along the way, you'll experience the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine that Colombia has to offer.
Welcome to Bogota, the capital city of Colombia. Upon your late afternoon arrival, settle into your hotel and take some time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, venture out to the lively La Candelaria neighborhood, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Visit Plaza de Bolivar, the city's main square, and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Monserrate Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city. Take the cable car or funicular railway to the top and explore the beautiful Monserrate Sanctuary. Afterward, head to the lively Mercado Paloquemao, a bustling market where you can sample fresh fruits, delicious street food, and browse local handicrafts. In the afternoon, visit the world-renowned Gold Museum to marvel at its extensive collection of gold artifacts.
Today, take a domestic flight from Bogota to Santa Marta and make your way to Tayrona National Park, a paradise of white sandy beaches and lush tropical forests. Spend the day exploring the park's trails, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing on pristine beaches such as Playa Cristal and Cabo San Juan. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and immerse yourself in the park's unique biodiversity.
To check flight and hotel prices for your trip, click here.
Return to Santa Marta and spend the day exploring this charming coastal city. Start by visiting the historic center and the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta. Stroll along the Malecon promenade, lined with palm trees and offering picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea. In the afternoon, take a relaxing dip in the popular Taganga Beach or visit the fascinating Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the former residence of Simon Bolivar.
Head to Cocora Valley, located near Salento, for an unforgettable day in Colombia's Coffee Region. Marvel at the towering wax palm trees, the national tree of Colombia, and take an adventurous hike through the picturesque landscape. Afterward, explore the charming town of Salento, known for its colorful architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to try a cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee!
Take a domestic flight from Santa Marta to Medellin and spend the day exploring the vibrant "City of Eternal Spring". Start by visiting the Plaza Botero, where you can admire the famous sculptures of Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Explore the historic neighborhood of El Poblado, known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. In the evening, experience the lively nightlife of Medellin by visiting the Parque Lleras.
To check flight and hotel prices for your trip, click here.
Spend the next three days exploring the highlights of Medellin. Start by taking a ride on the famous Metrocable, a cable car system that provides stunning views of the city. Visit the Comuna 13 neighborhood, once one of the most dangerous areas in Medellin but now a symbol of transformation and urban art. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Botanical Garden, the Museum of Antioquia, and the vibrant neighborhood of Laureles.
Take a day trip to Guatape, a colorful colonial town surrounded by stunning waterways and granite rock formations. Climb the 740 steps of El Peñol, a towering monolith, for panoramic views of the area's scenic landscapes. Explore the town's vibrant streets adorned with colorful zocalos and indulge in traditional Colombian cuisine at the local restaurants.
Return to Santa Marta and spend the next six days unwinding on the beautiful beaches of Tayrona National Park. Relax under the sun, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and revel in the serenity of nature. Take leisurely hikes through the park's trails, visit hidden coves, and rejuvenate your body and mind in this tropical paradise.
Take a domestic flight from Santa Marta back to Bogota for your departure. With unforgettable memories and newfound appreciation for Colombia's beauty, bid farewell to this incredible destination.
Colombia has many off-the-beaten-path attractions and local favorites that are worth exploring. Consider visiting La Guajira Peninsula, located in the northernmost part of the country, for its stunning desert landscapes and indigenous Wayuu culture. Another hidden gem is the Coffee Triangle's lesser-known town of Manizales, where you can experience the charm of a traditional Colombian town and explore nearby natural wonders like Los Nevados National Natural Park. Locals also recommend the town of Mompos, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.