14-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Colombia

Day 1: Explore Bogotá

Bogotá, Colombia

9:00AM

Visit the Gold Museum

Start your trip with a fascinating exploration of Colombia's rich history and gold artifacts at the Gold Museum.
Located centrally in Bogotá. Take a taxi or Uber.
COP 40000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at El Gato Gris

Have a delicious lunch at El Gato Gris, known for its cozy atmosphere and kid-friendly options.
Walking distance from the Gold Museum.
COP 80000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Ride the Cable Car to Monserrate

Enjoy a stunning cable car ride up to Monserrate for breathtaking views of Bogotá.
Take the TransMilenio to the base of Monserrate.
COP 22000, 3 hours

4:00PM

Relax in Simón Bolívar Park

Unwind with the family at Simón Bolívar Park, a great space for walking or renting pedal boats.
A quick taxi ride from Monserrate.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at La Puerta Falsa

End your day with a traditional Colombian meal at La Puerta Falsa, famous for its tamales.
Short walk from the park.
COP 70000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Journey to Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Fonda de la Plaza

Savor a hearty Colombian breakfast before departing for Villa de Leyva.
Rented car from Bogotá; approximately 3.5 hours' drive.
COP 60000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Exploring Plaza Mayor

Upon arrival, visit Plaza Mayor, one of Colombia's largest town squares, surrounded by historic buildings.
Walking distance from your stop.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Casa de los Fundadores

Enjoy a traditional meal at Casa de los Fundadores, with local specialties for the whole family.
Near Plaza Mayor.
COP 75000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Fossil Museum

Explore this unique museum showcasing fossils and geology of the region.
Short drive or walk from Plaza Mayor.
COP 15000, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at El Rancherito

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner, offering both Colombian and international dishes.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
COP 80000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventures in San Gil

San Gil, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café San Alberto

Enjoy a great Colombian coffee experience with breakfast at Café San Alberto before the journey.
Drive from Villa de Leyva to San Gil; approximately 4 hours.
COP 55000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Rafting in the Chicamocha Canyon

Experience an adrenaline-pumping family rafting adventure in the stunning Chicamocha Canyon.
Join a local tour company for rafting.
COP 200000, 3 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Combito

Grab a quick, tasty lunch at Combito, perfect for refueling after your adventure.
Short drive back into San Gil.
COP 70000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the Parque El Gallineral

Take a leisurely stroll through this beautiful park filled with lush gardens and walkways.
Drive or take a taxi; just a few minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Típico

End your day with a delicious dinner featuring traditional Santander dishes.
Return to the town center.
COP 80000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Charming Barichara

Barichara, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panadería La Villa

Start the day with pastries and fresh-brewed coffee at this local bakery.
Morning drive to Barichara; about 30 minutes.
COP 30000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Barichara's Historic Center

Wander through the cobblestone streets of this picturesque town and enjoy the colonial architecture.
Walking around town.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante La Misión

Enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant with an excellent view of the countryside.
Easily walkable from the town center.
COP 70000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Arts and Craft Workshop

Participate in a family-friendly arts and craft workshop focused on local traditions and materials.
Find a local artisan for an informal workshop.
COP 40000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Hike to the Waterfalls

Take an easy hike to nearby waterfalls where you can refresh and enjoy nature.
Guide or map available from the town.
Free, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Misión

Return to La Misión for an excellent dinner filled with local flavors.
Back to the restaurant.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Bucaramanga Bound

Bucaramanga, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at El Doble

Enjoy an energizing breakfast at El Doble, known for its delicious pancakes and smoothies.
Short drive from Barichara; about 30 minutes.
COP 60000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Bucaramanga

Drive to Bucaramanga, a city known for its parks and pleasant weather.
Drive for approximately 2 hours.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Cerro del Santísimo

Explore this hilltop with a giant statue and panoramic city views, perfect for family photos.
Drive or taxi from city center.
COP 10000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Cielo

Stop for a delightful lunch at El Cielo, known for its Colombian fusion cuisine.
Nearby by car.
COP 90000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Parque de los Niños

Let your kids play in this fun park designed for families, full of games and wide-open spaces.
A short drive or a 20-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Terraza

Dine at La Terraza, where you can enjoy the views while feasting on grilled meats.
Drive or walk back from the park.
COP 85000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Medellín Adventuring

Medellín, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Zorba

Kickstart the day with a delicious breakfast at Café Zorba known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive to Medellín; approximately 5 hours.
COP 70000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Metrocable Ride to Parque Arví

Experience a scenic ride via the Metrocable up to Parque Arví, a beautiful ecological park.
Take the metro to the nearest station.
COP 13000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mercado del Río

Savor the variety of food offerings at Mercado del Río, a great place for families to choose what they want.
Return to the city center via Metrocable.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Medellín Botanic Garden

Visit the city's stunning botanic garden, a perfect spot for kids to run and explore.
Short taxi ride from the market.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Strada

Finalize your day with dinner in La Strada, offering Italian and Colombian fusion dishes.
Taxi ride from the garden.
COP 90000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Charming Guatapé

Guatapé, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Cielo

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Café Cielo, which has great views of the lake.
Drive from Medellín to Guatapé; about 2 hours.
COP 50000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Climb El Peñol Rock

Take on the 700 stairs to the top of El Peñol for unbeatable views of the surrounding lake.
Drive or take a local taxi, close to the center.
COP 20000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante La Fogata

Recharge at a lakeside restaurant after enjoying the climb.
Short drive from El Peñol.
COP 80000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Guatapé's Colorful Streets

Stroll through the vibrant streets of Guatapé with its famous zócalos.
Walking distance around town.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Cabaña

Unwind with a cozy dinner at La Cabaña, serving traditional local dishes.
Short walk from the town center.
COP 70000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Serene Salento

Salento, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Salento

Start your day at Cafetería de Salento, known for its aromatic coffee and breakfast menu.
Drive from Guatapé to Salento; about 3 hours.
COP 40000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Cocora Valley

Discover the stunning Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms on a family-friendly hike.
Drive to the valley entrance; about 30 minutes from Salento.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Castropol

Enjoy panoramic views of the coffee region while dining at Castropol.
Return to Salento for lunch.
COP 70000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Coffee Farm Tour

Visit a local coffee plantation to learn how coffee is grown and processed, suitable for the entire family.
Local tour operators offer options near Salento.
COP 40000, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Eliana

Savor a family dinner with traditional dishes at La Eliana, a local favorite.
Head back into town.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Exploring Manizales

Manizales, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Haiku Café

Begin your day with a fresh breakfast at Haiku Café, known for its health-conscious meals.
Drive from Salento to Manizales; about 1 hour.
COP 40000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Cathedral Basilica of Manizales

Explore one of the tallest churches in Colombia and its stunning architecture.
Taxi from the café to the cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Mercado

Enjoy an exquisite farm-to-table experience at El Mercado with local produce.
Short drive or taxi ride.
COP 80000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ride the Cable Car

Take a scenic cable car ride over the beautiful hills of Manizales.
Local transportation to the cable car station.
COP 15000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Los Nevados National Park

Take in the stunning natural beauty with short hikes suitable for families.
Advance booking required for tours.
COP 50000, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Isla

Conclude your day with dinner featuring local restaurant favorites at La Isla.
Return to your accommodation in Manizales.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Back to Medellín

Medellín, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mercado de San Alejo

Enjoy breakfast at this bustling market filled with local delicacies.
Drive back to Medellín; about 3 hours.
COP 60000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Medellín Museum of Modern Art

Marvel at contemporary works and engage with family-friendly exhibits.
10-minute taxi from the market.
COP 15000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Lonchería

Refuel with a tasty lunch in this quaint eatery with wholesome options.
Short walk from the museum.
COP 70000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore El Parque de los Deseos

A fun and interactive park for families, perfect for relaxation and play.
Walkable distance from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Varieté

Dinner at Varieté, where you’ll find a selection of local and international dishes.
Short taxi ride from the park.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Beach Time in Cartagena

Cartagena, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at El Bistro

Begin your journey to Cartagena with breakfast at El Bistro, famed for its delicious pastries.
Flight from Medellín to Cartagena is recommended.
COP 90000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Arrive and Relax at the Beach

Once settled, take the family to one of Cartagena's nearby lovely beaches.
Taxi to Bocagrande Beach.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Perla

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes at La Perla, a beachside restaurant.
Short walk from the beach.
COP 90000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Old City

Stroll through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a family photo with the colorful buildings.
Walking distance from your lunch stop.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante 1621

Complete the day with an exquisite dinner at this fine dining establishment.
Located in the Old City.
COP 150000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Santa Marta Discoveries

Santa Marta, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at El Bistro

Enjoy breakfast once more at El Bistro before departing for Santa Marta.
Drive from Cartagena to Santa Marta; about 4 hours.
COP 60000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Arrive and Enjoy Santa Marta Beach

Upon arrival, head straight to Santa Marta's beaches for some relaxation.
Taxi to the nearest beach.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Canoa

Savor a leisurely lunch with fresh seafood at La Canoa.
Walking distance from the beach.
COP 80000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Santa Marta Historic Center

Explore the charming historic center and discover the local shops and museums.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lulo

Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at Lulo, known for its diverse menu.
Short taxi ride from the center.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Exploring Tayrona National Park

Tayrona, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation in Santa Marta.
Drive to Tayrona National Park; about 1 hour.
Free with accommodation., 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Tayrona National Park

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Tayrona National Park and relax on its pristine beaches.
Entry through the park entrance.
COP 60000, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante La Pérgola

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at this lovely restaurant located within the park.
Close to the park’s main beach.
COP 80000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Nature Walk

Take a nature walk to see the rich biodiversity, an engaging experience for the kids.
Guided options available throughout the park.
Free with park entry., 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

End your day back at your accommodation for a relaxing dinner.
Returning to your hotel.
Free with accommodation., 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Return to Bogotá

Bogotá, Colombia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your Santa Marta accommodation.
Flight from Santa Marta to Bogotá recommended.
Free with accommodation., 1 hour

10:30AM

Arrive Back in Bogotá

Return to the bustling city of Bogotá for any last explorations or shopping.
Taxi from the airport to city center.
COP 40000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Andres Carne de Res

Enjoy a lively lunch at this famous Colombian steakhouse with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Short taxi ride from the hotel.
COP 120000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Final Shopping at Usaquén Market

Visit the Usaquén market for local crafts and souvenirs.
Taxi ride to Usaquén.
Free entry; shopping costs vary., 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure

Prepare for your departure flight, cherishing memories from your Colombian adventure.
Taxi drive from the market to the airport.
COP 40000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability