14-Day Adventure in Colombia: Culture, Nature, and City Life on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Bogotá

Bogotá, Colombia

9:00AM

Breakfast at La Puerta Falsa

Start your Colombian adventure with a traditional breakfast of tamal and hot chocolate at this historic eatery.
Located in La Candelaria, near major attractions.
COP 15,000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore La Candelaria

Wander through Bogotá’s old town, full of colonial architecture, street art, and vibrant culture.
Walk through the streets, visiting Plaza de Bolivar.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at El Gato Gris

Enjoy a delicious lunch of arepas and fresh fruit juice at this charming café.
Short walk from La Candelaria.
COP 20,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gold Museum

Immerse yourself in Colombia’s history and pre-Columbian cultures through stunning exhibits of gold artefacts.
5-minute walk from El Gato Gris.
COP 4,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Casa de la Cerveza

Taste local craft beers paired with Colombian street food snacks after a day of exploration.
About a 10-minute taxi ride.
COP 25,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: National Park and Culture

Bogotá, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café San Alberto

Enjoy a gourmet cup of Colombian coffee with freshly baked pastries to fuel your day.
Located in Zona Rosa.
COP 20,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day Trip to Chingaza National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of this national park, home to unique wildlife and stunning lakes.
Book a tour that includes transportation.
COP 80,000, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Crepes & Waffles

Savour a sweet or savoury crepe accompanied by a delicious salad in a cozy atmosphere.
Return to Bogotá and visit in a Zona T.
COP 30,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva, Colombia

7:00AM

Breakfast at Pastelería Florida

Indulge in freshly made baked goods and coffee before your journey.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
COP 15,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Bus to Villa de Leyva

Catch a comfortable bus from Bogotá to Villa de Leyva, a charming colonial town.
Bus terminal in Bogotá, about a 20-minute taxi ride.
COP 30,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Costilla de Coco

Try excellent grilled meats and local dishes in a lovely backyard setting.
Easily accessible on foot from the bus terminal.
COP 25,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Villa de Leyva

Stroll through cobblestone streets and visit the central Plaza Mayor, the largest in Colombia.
Walking around the town.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Mercado

Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience with delightful local ingredients.
Located within the town centre.
COP 35,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural and Historical Immersion

Villa de Leyva, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Tienda de las Croquetas

Begin your day with delicious homemade croquettes and fresh juice.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
COP 12,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Casa Museum

Explore the historic house museum to learn about the life of Colombia's independence heroes.
Just a walkable distance from Plaza Mayor.
COP 5,000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Fossil Museum

Discover the fascinating fossils discovered in the area, highlighting Colombia’s geological history.
A short taxi ride from the museum.
COP 4,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bodega de la Plaza

Savour some vegetarian options or a hearty meat dish with a local flair.
Near the central square.
COP 20,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Craft Workshop

Engage in a pottery or art workshop and create your own memento from Villa de Leyva.
Pre-book with local artisans.
COP 30,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Brasa de Villa

Enjoy grilled dishes, perfect for reflecting on your day immersed in culture.
Easily reached within the town.
COP 28,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Medellín

Medellín, Colombia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Panadería La 22

Relish freshly baked goods before your journey to Medellín.
Walking distance from your hotel.
COP 10,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bus to Medellín

Travel by bus from Villa de Leyva to Medellín, where you’ll encounter a vibrant city life.
Catch a bus at the terminal.
COP 40,000, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mercado del Río

Dine at this gastronomic market offering a variety of local and international flavours.
Take a taxi from the bus terminal.
COP 25,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Plaza Botero

Marvel at unique sculptures by Fernando Botero, capturing Medellín’s artistic flair.
Short walk from Mercado del Río.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Poblado

Experience lively nightlife and great dining within the trendy Poblado district.
Take a short taxi or metro ride to Poblado.
COP 35,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Explore Medellín's Culture

Medellín, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Tapería

Enjoy traditional Colombian breakfast options with a modern twist.
Similar area to your accommodation.
COP 20,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Comuna 13 Tour

Join a guided tour to learn about the social transformation and street art in this vibrant community.
Book a tour in advance.
COP 50,000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cazuela de Fuego

Savour a traditional Colombian cazuela pair with fresh juices for a hearty meal.
Back to the city centre.
COP 30,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Medellín Museum of Modern Art

Appreciate contemporary art exhibits that capture Colombian culture.
Exploration by metro to the museum.
COP 10,000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Plaza de la Luz

Enjoy a relaxed evening with delicious tapas and local wines.
Nearby your accommodation.
COP 30,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Adventure in Guatapé

Guatapé, Colombia

6:30AM

Breakfast at Café Velvet

Start your day with specialty coffee and a light breakfast before your trip to Guatapé.
Located close to your accommodation.
COP 15,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Guatapé

Take a bus to the stunning lakeside town of Guatapé, famous for its vibrant houses.
Catch a bus from Medellín northern terminal.
COP 30,000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit El Peñol Rock

Climb the 740 steps to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes.
A short taxi ride from the bus stop.
COP 20,000, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante D'Kari

Savor local dishes with a scenic view of the lake.
Located along the lakeside.
COP 25,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Town

Wander through Guatapé’s colourful streets and discover local shops and artisans.
On foot around the town.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Lanza

Conclude your day with grilled meats and a warm atmosphere.
Back to the main square.
COP 30,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Nature Excursion in Guatapé

Guatapé, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Casa de los Zócalos

Experience the flavours of Guatapé with fresh fruit and local pastries.
Walkable distance from your accommodation.
COP 12,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Boat Tour on the Lake

Enjoy a relaxing boat tour on the lake to see beautiful scenery and visionary houses.
Available tours near the lake.
COP 35,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch in the Town

Grab a quick lunch from a local food stall for an authentic taste of street food.
Healthier options available.
COP 10,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking in the Surrounding Nature

Explore nearby trails and enjoy the gorgeous views of the landscape.
Ask locals for recommended trails.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante La Fogata

Feast on delicious Colombian specialties with a view of the lake.
Located by the water.
COP 30,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Travel to Cali

Cali, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dulces y Salados

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local arepas before your trip.
Close to your accommodation.
COP 12,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Cali

Catch a bus to Cali, the salsa capital of Colombia.
Board from the bus terminal.
COP 35,000, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at El Corral

Satisfy your hunger with a local fast-food favourite, serving burgers and more.
Within the city centre.
COP 25,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Cali Zoo

Embark on a fun afternoon at one of the best zoos in South America.
Taxi from the restaurant.
COP 24,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Caleña

Enjoy traditional dishes and fresh juices, perfect to recharge after an exciting day.
Near the zoo.
COP 28,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cultural Dances and Salsa

Cali, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Fama

Savour local breakfast options at this popular spot with a welcoming vibe.
In the city’s heart.
COP 18,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Salsa Class

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cali with a beginner salsa class.
Book in advance and head to the studio.
COP 50,000, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pomodoro

Enjoy a mix of Colombian and Italian cuisines in a cozy setting.
Walk to the nearby restaurant.
COP 30,000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Wander through lush greenery and diverse plant species in this tranquil space.
Taxi to the garden.
COP 10,000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Zócalo

Indulge in authentic Colombian meals as you reflect on your salsa adventure.
Back to the city centre.
COP 28,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Salsa Night at Zaperoco

Join locals for a vibrant night of salsa dancing at this popular venue.
Short taxi ride to the venue.
COP 15,000, 4 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to Santa Marta

Santa Marta, Colombia

6:00AM

Breakfast at El Yeti

Fuel up with a tasty breakfast of waffles and fresh fruit before departure.
Near your accommodation.
COP 15,000, 1 hour

7:30AM

Flight to Santa Marta

Catch an early flight to the beautiful coastal city of Santa Marta.
Taxi to the airport.
COP 150,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arrive in Santa Marta

Enjoy the sunny weather and coastal views in this historical city.
Arrange a taxi at the airport.
COP 20,000, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Historic City Centre

Wander through streets filled with colonial architecture and vibrant shops.
Walking around the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante La Perla

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes while overlooking the coast.
Located near the coast.
COP 30,000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Tayrona National Park

Take a bus to the park entrance and start your nature adventure.
Pre-book transportation through local services.
COP 30,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Explore Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park, Colombia

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ecohabs

Experience a refreshing breakfast overlooking the beautiful landscapes.
Located in the eco-lodge area.
COP 25,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hiking in Tayrona National Park

Spend the day hiking the park's trails, discovering waterfalls and breathtaking views.
Explore different marked trails.
COP 60,000, 7 hours

4:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Unwind on the beautiful beaches of Tayrona and enjoy the sun and surf.
Easy access from hiking trails.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ecohabs

Return to the eco-lodge for a delightful dinner featuring local ingredients.
After your beach day.
COP 30,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: More Adventures in Tayrona

Tayrona National Park, Colombia

7:30AM

Breakfast at Ecohabs

Enjoy another breakfast immersed in the natural surroundings.
On-site dining at the eco-lodge.
COP 25,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Cabo San Juan

Hike through lush trails to Cabo San Juan, one of the park’s most beautiful beaches.
Follow marked paths.
COP 10,000, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cabo San Juan

Pick up local snacks at beachside vendors offering tasty treats.
Grab something on the beach.
COP 20,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax and Swim

Cool off in the inviting waters and enjoy the beach vibes.
Stay at Cabo San Juan.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ecohabs

Return for a peaceful dinner after a day in paradise.
Back to the eco-lodge.
COP 30,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Travel to Cartagena

Cartagena, Colombia

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ecohabs

Savor one last breakfast immersed in nature.
Enjoy it before checking out.
COP 25,000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Return to Santa Marta

Take a bus back to Santa Marta before heading to Cartagena.
Public transportation to the terminal.
COP 20,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Bus to Cartagena

Travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena, an iconic coastal city filled with history.
Catch a bus at Santa Marta terminal.
COP 30,000, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Cocina de Pepina

Dine on traditional Caribbean dishes with bold flavours.
Centrally located in Cartagena.
COP 25,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Walled City

Lose yourself in the cobblestone streets and stunning colonial architecture of the Old Town.
Walk around the Walled City.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante 1621

Wrap up your Colombian journey with an upscale dining experience featuring fresh seafood and local ingredients.
Within the Old Town, easy to access.
COP 50,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability