How many days do you need in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & the Rosario Islands?
- Most travelers spend 10-14 days in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Rosario Islands combined
- Visiting Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Rosario Islands in 9 days is possible, but it will feel rushed
- With 15 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
- The most common extensions are Zona Cafetera, Tayrona National Park, and Santa Marta
How Many Days to Spend in Bogotá
How Many Days to Spend in Cartagena
How Many Days to Spend in Medellín
Recommended Itineraries for Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & the Rosario Islands
Recommended Itinerary for 11 Days
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Bogotá, Explore Bogotá | Bogotá |
| Day 2 | Fruits of Colombia Food Tour, Bogotá Museums Tour, Dinner at Andrés DC | Bogotá |
| Day 3 | Tour of Monserrate, Chapinero for Foodies | Bogotá |
| Day 4 | Bogotá to Medellín, Streetfood & Market Experience, Dinner at Elcielo Restaurant | Medellín |
| Day 5 | Peñol Boulder & Guatapé Boat Trip | Medellín |
| Day 6 | Medellín to Cartagena, Cartagena Bike Tour, Rum Tasting | Cartagena |
| Day 7 | Market Visit & Cooking Class, San Alberto Coffee Tasting | Cartagena |
| Day 8 | Cartagena to Isla Barú, Night Bioluminescence Tour | Isla Barú |
| Day 9 | Explore Barú with a Local Guide, Beach Time on Isla Barú | Isla Barú |
| Day 10 | Isla Barú to Cartagena, Cartagena Street Food Tour, Caribbean Dinner Cruise | Cartagena |
| Day 11 | Depart Cartagena |
Food and drink lovers will adore this culinary tour across Colombia's three biggest cities, starting in the exciting capital, Bogotá. You'll sample exotic fruits and meet chefs in one of the best neighborhoods for dining. Then head to Medellín and Cartegena to enjoy a range of food-themed excursions and tastings with local guides. It's not all about food; there will be time for bike rides and mild hikes—and even a two-day island adventure for some rest and relaxation on the Caribbean Sea. Read more
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Extended Itineraries
11-Day Itinerary Including Santa Marta
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bogotá - Explore the city | Bogotá |
| Day 2 | Discover the city's neighborhoods and ascend Monserrate Hill | Bogotá |
| Day 3 | Explore the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá | Bogotá |
| Day 4 | Soak in the thermal waters of a Turkish bath and enjoy nature | Bogotá |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Medellín and enjoy a contemporary Colombian meal | Medellín |
| Day 6 | El Peñol and Guatapé ¨The most colorful town in Colombia¨ | Medellín |
| Day 7 | Fly to Santa Marta - Explore the city | Santa Marta |
| Day 8 | Transfer to Cartagena and discover its neighborhoods and castle | Cartagena |
| Day 9 | Relax at the beach and spa on Barú Island | Isla Barú |
| Day 10 | Discover the flavors of Cartagena on a literary food tour | Cartagena |
| Day 11 | Depart Cartagena |
This tour combines Colombia's vibrant cities of Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena with trips to colorful villages like Guatapé, a hike to La Pierda Rock, and a beach day on Barú Island. Visit unique sites such as the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá, the views atop Monserrate Hill, and the port city of Santa Marta, which is known as the first Spanish settlement in the country. Relax at a 5-star wellness hotel for a day at the spa, and spend an afternoon exploring Cartagena's food scene inspired by the literary works of Gabriel García Márquez. Read more
How to travel between Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & the Rosario Islands
How to get from Bogotá to Medellín
The distance between two of Colombia's largest cities, Bogotá and Medellín, is 260 miles (419 km). The easiest way to make the trip is to fly, which takes about an hour. Going by car is also an option—the route takes significantly longer (over 10 hours), but this is a great way to see the hilly, scenic countryside, and there are a few noteworthy stops you can make along the way. Private transfers are recommended over self-driving, though it can be an expensive option at this distance. Read more
How to get from Medellín to Cartagena
The distance between Medellín and Cartagena is 389 miles (636 km). The easiest way to make the trip is to fly, which takes about an hour. Buses run from Medellín to Cartagena numerous times every day and are an economical way to go; you can expect at least thirteen hours on the road. Private transfers are recommended over self-driving, though it can be an expensive option at this distance. Read more
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