Highlights
- Tour Bogotá's historic plazas and colorful La Candelaria neighborhood
- Visit well-preserve colonial villages in the Colombian highlands
- Hike the waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes in El Cocuy National Park
- Discover the parks, plazas, and museums of revitalized Medellín
- Enjoy adventures on the water in the Río Claro Nature Reserve
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlight | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bogotá, Optional Activities | Bogotá |
| Day 2 | Bogotá City Tour | Bogotá |
| Day 3 | Visit the Salt Cathedral, Transfer to Villa de Leyva | Villa de Leyva |
| Day 4 | Transfer to El Cocuy National Park | El Cocuy |
| Day 5 | El Cocuy Tour & Hike Prep | El Cocuy |
| Day 6 | Trekking in El Cocuy (Day 1) | El Cocuy |
| Day 7 | Trekking in El Cocuy (Day 2) | El Cocuy |
| Day 8 | Transfer to Bucaramanga via Chicamocha Canyon | Bucaramanga |
| Day 9 | Fly to Medellín, Self-Guided Tour | Medellín |
| Day 10 | Transfer to Río Claro Nature Reserve | Río Claro |
| Day 11 | Outdoor Adventures in Río Claro | Río Claro |
| Day 12 | Return to Medellín, Metrocable Tour | Medellín |
| Day 13 | Day Trip to Guatapé & El Peñol Hike | Medellín |
| Day 14 | Depart Medellín |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bogotá, Optional Activities
Welcome to Bogotá! Nestled high in the Andes mountains at 8,612 feet (2,625 m), this is Colombia's largest city and capital. Founded way back in 1538, many Spanish colonial landmarks remain in its well-preserved historic center. Beyond the city limits, there are outdoor adventures aplenty in various national parks. You'll experience all of it while here.
Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. Then, you can spend the rest of the day on a self-guided walking tour. To see the most history in one place, head to the La Candelaria neighborhood, where Bogotá was founded. The main square, Plaza Bolívar, is still the government quarter, home to the parliament, supreme court, and the 19th-century Catedral Primada de Colombia, the city's most famous church. While here, you can visit museums, go shopping, and enjoy delicious street food ranging from crispy empanadas to exotic fruit salads.
Day 2: Bogotá City Tour
Fortify yourself with a hearty breakfast, then embark on a walking tour of Bogotá. Whether you opt for a guided or self-guided tour, you can start in La Candelaria, the historic center. If you missed them yesterday, marvel at the historic landmarks around Plaza Bolívar. And no trip to Bogotá is complete without visiting the Gold Museum, which boasts over 34,000 pre-Columbian gold artifacts—the largest such collection in the world. Finish at the Museo de Botero, home to an impressive art collection donated by the renowned Colombian painter/sculptor Fernando Botero.
Afterward, you might stop at one of the largest and most popular municipal markets in the city: Paloquemao. It covers an entire urban block, and within it are around 750 vendors selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to meats and cheeses. As you stroll down the labyrinthine aisles, you'll mingle with local Bogotanos doing their weekly shopping, plus chat with vendors about their products. Take a break for a snack at one of the restaurant stalls, then sample exotic tropical fruits like papaya, mango, guava, carambola, passion fruit, dragon fruit, lulo, and many others.
You won't want to miss Cerro Monserrate, the famous hill overlooking Bogotá. There are various options to ascend it, the quickest being a four-minute cable car ride up 2,690 feet (820 m) to the top. There's also a slower funicular rail car and a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hiking path. Be aware that the hiking trail can take up to three hours to complete (it also closes at 1 pm). Once at the top, you'll visit Monserrate Sanctuary, a whitewashed Catholic church that was completed in 1657, but the real star is the panoramic view of the city below.
Day 3: Visit the Salt Cathedral, Transfer to Villa de Leyva
Say goodbye to Bogotá this morning as you meet your driver for the hour's ride north to Zipaquirá, a town famous for its Salt Cathedral. Literally made out of salt and located in an old mine, this unique Roman Catholic church was built by miners in the mid-20th century. Spread over multiple levels, you'll visit some fascinating chambers on a tour, including the Stations of the Cross and the Narthex Labyrinth. The latter is a winding pathway adorned with religious sculptures and artwork carved into the salt rock.
Later, you'll head 30 minutes outside of Zipaquirá to the Nemocón Salt Mine. Here, you'll explore 5,000 feet (1,600 m) of underground tunnels at a depth of over 260 feet (80 m), stopping to check out a mirror or two—an optical effect caused by the dissolved rock salt. Next up on today's road trip is Raquira, known as "the pottery capital of Colombia." This village features brightly painted storefronts overflowing with artisanal items like pottery, hammocks, textiles, wooden crafts, and much more.
After Raquira, continue driving north through the highlands to Villa de Leyva, regarded as one of the most beautiful colonial villages in Colombia. Famous for its cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings, it's biggest attraction (literally) is its main square, which covers a whopping 3.4 acres (1.4 ha).
Day 4: Transfer to El Cocuy National Park
Depart Villa de Leyva early today on a long drive northeast to Parque Nacional Natural El Cocuy (El Cocuy National Park). This highland region near the Venezuelan border covers 477 square miles (1,236 sq km) and is home to some of Colombia's most impressive landscapes. These include soaring peaks like Ritacuba Blanco, which stands at 17,486 feet (5,330 m). El Cocuy also protects endemic and rare wildlife like the spectacled bear, white-tailed deer, Andean fox, mountain tapir, pumas, and more.
It's a full day's drive to reach the park, but the journey is a scenic one. Also, along the way, you can stop for breaks at various colonial villages dotting the highlands. When you do arrive at El Cocuy, you'll check into your park accommodation either in the village of Cocuy or in a mountain hut near the park entrance.
Day 5: El Cocuy Tour & Hike Prep
Spend today making the necessary preparations for the multiday hike that commences tomorrow. (Your guide will help you take care of all necessary entrance fees and registrations). Also, you can embark on a short warm-up hike to acclimate to Cocuy's high-altitude páramo ecosystem. Páramos are typically situated between 9,800 feet (3,000 m) and 14,800 feet (4,500 m) above sea level, and they're known for their distinctive flora and fauna. A prime example is the ubiquitous frailejones—tall, silvery plants with large, fuzzy leaves. Retire to your guesthouse or cabin after dinner.
Day 6: Trekking in El Cocuy (Day 1)
Get an early start as you embark on an adventure through one of Colombia's most scenic trekking destinations. You can fully customize the day's hike according to your interests and level of fitness. Your guide will be happy to recommend various hiking trails that range in difficulty and length. And if you're not up for a long hike, you can choose shorter nature walks by the park entrance.
Just know that there's plenty to see in this park. Within El Cocuy are 21 glorious peaks, most higher than 16,404 feet (5,000 m). Many of the hiking trails leading around these mountains pass through dramatic landscapes consisting of towering waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and high-altitude lakes. And remember, the longer you hike, the greater the chance of spotting native wildlife like deer, pumas, and bears. At the end of the day, you'll return to your accommodation.
Day 7: Trekking in El Cocuy (Day 2)
It's another day to explore new trails through El Cocuy. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the trek to Laguna Grande, a glacial lake surrounded by mountains; summiting Pan de Azúcar, a prominent peak affording views of the surrounding mountains and valleys; and hiking the Puerta del Sol, a route that leads to some otherworldly rock formations. At the end of the day, you'll return to your accommodation in the village.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 8: Transfer to Bucaramanga via Chicamocha Canyon
You've conquered El Cocuy, now it's time for more city fun. Meet your driver and leave the park on a scenic nine-hour drive through the Andes (enjoying the views of the dramatic Chicamocha Canyon along the way). Your destination is the airport near Bucaramanga, the capital of Colombia's Santander department. Since this is a heavy travel day, there are no activities scheduled. Upon arrival at your hotel, you can have dinner then rest up for your morning flight to Medellín.
Day 9: Fly to Medellín, Self-Guided Tour
In the morning, transfer to the airport for the one-hour flight to Medellín, the capital of Colombia's Antioquia department. Despite its turbulent past, Medellín today is pure charm, with a beautiful setting nestled in the Andes, friendly locals (known as "Paisas"), and a rich culture heavy on art and music. A car will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel, after which you can enjoy a self-guided tour.
Perhaps start at the main tourism hub of Parque Lleras. Located in the heart of the trendy El Poblado district, this area is home to some of the most popular restaurants and nightlife venues in the city. In the park itself, you'll find locals selling handicrafts, artwork, and other items.
From Parque Lleras, travel to Medellín's other highlights, like Pueblito Paisa (a replica of a traditional Antioquian town) and Parque San Antonio. Nearby is Plaza Botero, which hosts the unmistakable bronze sculptures of celebrated artist and hometown hero Fernando Botero. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy the weather—due to its elevation, Medellín has year-round spring temperatures.
Day 10: Transfer to Río Claro Nature Reserve
After breakfast, meet your driver and hit the road toward Río Claro Nature Reserve, which lies about three hours south of Medellín. Located off the tourist trail deep in the Andes, this 1,100-acre (450 ha) reserve consists of lush rainforests and clear rivers complemented by beautiful mountain views. Upon arrival, you'll check into your rustic accommodation near the river and meet representatives who will lead you on a tour of this model of conservationism. Lunch and dinner will be served at the on-site restaurant.
Day 11: Outdoor Adventures in Río Claro
Río Claro is a paradise for nature lovers, as it offers a range of activities. This morning, you can opt for a couple of adventures, depending on your interest. Soar over the crystalline waters on a zipline, or hop in a raft or inner tube for a fun ride down the river. Horseback riding is another option, as is strapping on a helmet and spelunking through a large cavern spanning more than 1,300 feet (400 m)—expect to see some bats!
There's also the option of driving an hour to the town of Prodigio, where you'll visit a community-run archaeological preservation project. The group that operates it will guide you to a cave adorned with petroglyphs from pre-Hispanic cultures. Later in the afternoon, you'll return to Río Claro.
Day 12: Return to Medellín, Metrocable Tour
Leave early for the transfer back to Medellín. Once there, you'll meet a guide for an exciting tour that focuses on urban planning rather than natural beauty. Renowned for its innovation, Medellín boasts many social and infrastructure projects aimed at revitalizing some of the city's worst areas and empowering its residents. On today's tour, you'll experience one of Colombia's most successful urban development initiatives.
After meeting your guide, you'll hop aboard the Metro, Medellín's prized mass-transit project. The system includes trains and buses, but the real star is the Metrocable. This network of gondolas transports commuters up to the comunas (neighborhoods) dotting the Andean mountainside above the city center.
During a ride on one of these cable cars, you'll soar over once-forgotten areas that have been redeveloped, connecting residents all over the city. Disembark at the top stations for a quick stroll through one of these colorful comunas, stopping for some street food and juice, coffee, or beer. After descending the Metrocable, you can stop at a restaurant for a rustic Paisa lunch (think rice, beans, and grilled meats) and then have the rest of the day free.
Day 13: Day Trip to Guatapé & El Peñol Hike
Wake up early and leave on a full-day excursion to one of the crown jewels of Colombia's Antioquia region: Guatapé. This charming hill town sits on Lake Guatapé and is famous for its colorful street art and the brightly painted zócalos (lower facades) of its colonial buildings. Upon arrival, you'll meet a local guide for a two-hour walk around. This scenic stroll will take you to the neighboring town of El Peñol, and along the way, you'll be treated to epic views of El Peñón de Guatapé (the Rock of Guatapé), the region's most popular landmark.
Eventually, you'll reach the base of this dazzling granite monolith, which tops out at 646 feet (2,152 m). Climb the 740 steps to the summit, where you can admire 360-degree wraparound views of the towns, lake, and sprawling green countryside below. Then reward yourself with a cold beverage from one of the cafés and food stalls at the summit—try the mango michelada. Afterward, you'll transfer back to Medellín.
Day 14: Depart Medellín
Today marks the end of your adventurous two weeks in Colombia. Try to make the most of your remaining time by enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Then, at the scheduled time, you'll meet your driver for the transfer to the airport, where you'll catch your flight home. Adíos!
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