Colombia Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Colombia

Wondering where to go in Colombia?
Colombia's great diversity offers an endless list of travel possibilities. In addition to the beautiful (yet popular) coastal city of Cartagena, there is a wide range of amazing and unique places to visit:

Beautiful beaches: San Andrés and Providencia, the Rosario Islands (near Cartagena), The Tayrona Park
Colonial towns: Villa de Leyva, Barichara, Salento
Coffee region: Cocora and the beautiful 'coffee triangle' region of Colombia
Ethnic villages: The Lost City, Guajira
Arid deserts: Guajira and the Tatacoa Desert
Tropical rainforests: The Amazons and the Pacific
Modern cities: Bogotá, Medellín and Cali
Snowy mountains: El Cocuy and Los Nevados National Park

Savor a street food tour and rum and chocolate tasting in Cartagena's old city

Discover Medellín, Guatapé & Colombia's Caribbean Coast - 8 Days

In just eight days, you'll discover four iconic destinations across Colombia. Start in Medellín, where you'll explore the city's transformation through its history, art, and culture, with highlights like the Museo Casa de la Memoria and Comuna 13. Go on outdoor adventures like hiking to La Miel waterfall, visiting a traditional coffee farm, and cycling around a lake in Guatapé before flying to Cartagena. Indulge in local street food and a rum and chocolate tasting, then enjoy some relaxation time on Isla Grande.

Visit the beautiful Valle de Cocora in Colombia's coffee region during this nine-day tour

Explore Colombia's Coffee Region & Caribbean Coast: Armenia, Cartagena & Isla Barú - 9 Days

Set off on a nine-day adventure through Colombia's Coffee Region and vibrant Caribbean coast! In Armenia, stay in the hacienda of a working cacao farm, marvel at the towering wax palms of misty Valle de Cocora, and visit a coffee plantation. Then, fly to colorful Cartagena to explore its historic walled streets, craft your own chocolate, dance to drum rhythms, and unleash your inner chef in a cooking class. Finally, unwind on Isla Barú, where swimming, snorkeling, bird-watching, and beach bliss await.

Trek to Colombia's epic Lost City during this two-week adventure

Colombia's Ruins, Beaches, Mountains & Desert with Lost City Trek - 14 Days

Spend two amazing weeks in Colombia, beginning in the capital of Bogotá, where you'll tour museums and take in the views. Trek through the Sierra Nevada rainforest for four days to discover the hidden ruins of the Lost City. Then, relax on the beaches of Tayrona National Park before switching climates to the Tatacoa Desert for stargazing and otherworldly rock formations. Finally, wrap up your adventure in the Andes, discovering pre-Columbian relics and burial chambers in Tierradentro and San Agustín.

Wander the colorful streets of Cartagena's UNESCO-listed Old Town

Discover Colombia's Cityscapes & Landscapes: Bogotá, Medellín, Tayrona, Minca & Cartagena - 12 Days

Explore Colombia's vibrant cities and diverse landscapes on this fun 12-day adventure! Kick off in Bogotá at the Gold Museum and Cerro Monserrate to marvel at the views. Discover the artistic streets of transformed Medellín and visit colorful Guatapé for a rock-climb adventure. Then, fly to Santa Marta to beach hop in Tayrona National Park and exotic bird watch in the Sierra Nevada's Minca. Wrap it all up in Cartagena with a bike tour along ancient city walls, a volcanic mud bath, and lively dance lessons.

During this 10-day tour of Colombia, you'll see iconic sights like the wax palms in Valle de Cocora

Mountains, Coffee & Archaeological Wonders of Colombia - 10 Days

Explore Colombia's history, mountain landscapes, and coffee on this epic 10-day journey. See views of Bogotá from atop Cerro Monserrate and hike through exotic vegetation in Chingaza National Park before soaking in hot springs and touring coffee farms near Valle de Cocora. Climb to the summit of the imposing Volcán Cerro Bravo near Manizales and walk the artistic streets of Medellín. Then, end your trip in the Andean town of San Agustín, discovering archaeological wonders on horseback.

Explore one of Colombia's lush coffee regions during this 10-day tour

Archaeology, Nature & Coffee of Southern Colombia - 10 Days

Discover the best of southern Colombia, from city to desert to mountains. Taste exotic fruit in Bogotá's markets, tour the city's museums, and take in the views from atop Cerro Monserrate before flying to Villavieja to stargaze and explore the desert of Tatacoa on horseback. Then, head to the Andes to sip coffee and discover megalithic sculptures and stone idols in Tierradentro and San Agustín. Finally, hop on a Jeep tour through nearby river canyons and forests before returning to Bogotá's colorful streets.

Spend four nights in Pereira, with easy access to lush, green mountains and wax palms

Adventure, Cuisine & Culture in Colombia - 11 Days

Explore the best of Colombia, from cosmopolitan cities to lush mountains and coastal villages, on this immersive 11-day adventure. Start by sampling exotic fruit and taking in the views from Bogotá's Cerro Monserrate. Then, soak in hot springs, sip coffee at the source, and ride a horse through cloud forests near Pereira. Finish in Cartagena, where you'll bike through the Spanish colonial streets, learn traditional Colombian chocolate recipes, and catch fish with a local guide in the village of La Boquilla.

Start your exploration of Bogotá on the cobbled streets of the capital's historic La Candelaria neighborhood

Best of Bogotá: Culture, Cuisine & Countryside - 8 Days

Spend eight days getting to know Colombia's intriguing capital, Bogotá—sampling some of the many gourmet restaurants, exploring the historic neighborhoods, and taking day trips into the surrounding nature. See the thousands of gold artifacts at the Museo d'Oro, visit a traditional coffee farm, and descend to the famous Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral. Discover the city's vibrant street art, then hike to Colombia's tallest waterfall. End your trip in the historic area of Usaquén with a chocolate workshop.

Discover the flavors of Colombia on this 10-day tour

Colombia for Foodies: Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & Santa Marta - 10 Days

Savor the diverse flavors of Colombia during this 10-day culinary-focused tour. Sample exotic fruits in Bogotá's markets, join locals to learn how to make a traditional dish in Medellín, and sip sunset drinks on a rooftop in Cartagena's ancient Walled City. Learn to make chocolate and pair it with local rum, then take a street food tour in Santa Marta before setting off on a day trip to Minca's coffee farms.

Follow your guide through Colombia's lush Zona Cafetera on horseback

Colombia's Capital, Coffee Triangle & Colonial Towns: Bogotá & Pereira - 6 Days

Get a taste of Colombia's capital and the lush region known as the "Coffee Triangle" with this brisk, six-day itinerary. Start in Bogotá to stroll the historic streets of La Candelaria and ride the cable car to Cerro Monserrate for panoramic views. Then, fly to Pereira, where you'll relax in natural hot springs before setting off to explore the Valle de Cocora—sampling coffee from the source at a local farm, strolling through the colonial town of Salento, and venturing deeper into the countryside on horseback.

On a two-week adventure, you can combine Colombia's cities with beguiling regions like the Zona Cafetera

2 Weeks in Colombia - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Colombia, you can embark on a luxury highlights tour that features major cities, the lush Zona Cafetera, and world-renowned restaurants. Or, slow things down and enjoy relaxing stays at 5-star resorts along the Caribbean coast. If you're a nature fanatic, spend your time exploring the Amazon rainforest and Tayrona National Park, while those geared up to tackle authentic cultural activities hop between Bogotá, Armenia, and Cartagena and their surrounding landscapes.

Enjoy some pool time while exploring Cartagena (photo courtesy of Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena)

Luxury Tour of Colombia's World-Class Cities & Caribbean Beaches - 14 Days

Enjoy the good life on a luxury tour of one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world: Colombia. Over two weeks, you'll hit the highlights, starting in Bogotá with gourmet dining, museum visits, street art walks, and day trips to ancient lakes. Continue on to seductive Medellín for tours of its revitalized urban communities, wild times at nightclub restaurants, and visits to nearby landmarks before ending the adventure in colonial Cartagena and the Caribbean waters of Isla Barú.

In between stays in Bogotá and Cartagena, you'll relax amid the lush coffee estates of the Zona Cafetera

Best of Colombia in Luxury: Bogotá, the Coffee Triangle & Cartagena - 14 Days

Because of its wealth of natural beauty, any highlight tour of Colombia will be jam-packed with activities. Luckily, you have two weeks to experience the best, starting with museum and architecture tours in Bogotá, plus gourmet dining in the city's best restaurants. Continue to the famous Coffee Triangle for hikes and horseback riding in green valleys, then finish on the cobbled streets of coastal Cartagena to participate in dance and cooking classes, rum tastings, music workshops, and more.

Explore the Amazon jungle while staying in a romantic bungalow (photo courtesy of Calonoa Lodge)

Luxury Active Colombia: Bogotá, the Amazon & Caribbean Coast - 14 Days

Dive deep into Colombia's beauty, culture, and history without sacrificing any creature comforts. This luxury two-week tour begins in Bogotá, where, in between visiting famous landmarks, you'll dine at some of the best restaurants on the continent. Then, travel to the Amazon to meet tribespeople and spot exotic wildlife before finishing the adventure on the Caribbean coast and the wonderland of Tayrona National Park.

Enjoy sunsets while staying at three hotels on the Caribbean Sea (photo courtesy of Playa Dormida)

Luxury Relaxation in Colombia's Coffee Triangle & Caribbean Coast - 14 Days

If your goal is rest and relaxation in Colombia, you can't do better than two of its most scenic regions: the Zona Cafetera (Coffee Triangle) and the Caribbean coast. Each offers boundless natural beauty, evident in the colorful villages and verdant valleys in coffee country, where you'll start the trip. Then, head north to marvel at colonial history in Cartagena and Santa Marta, visit the unspoiled beaches in Tayrona National Park, and enjoy gourmet dining and water activities on Isla Barú.

End your two-week trip amid the colorful Caribbean energy of Cartagena

Discover Colombia's Culture & Cuisine in Luxury - 14 Days

Explore the length and breadth of Colombia, traveling and dining in style along the way. This two-week discovery begins high in the Andes with city tours of Bogotá, visits to local markets, and a trip to the colonial mountain town of Villa de Leyva. Then, fly to the famed Coffee Triangle, where you'll tour coffee farms, visit historic towns, and enjoy activities like horseback riding. The adventure concludes on the colorful streets of Cartagena with rum tastings, music workshops, island hopping, and more.

Combine city sightseeing with luxurious downtime on Colombia's Caribbean islands (photo courtesy of Hotel Las Islas)

10 Days in Colombia - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Colombia, you can experience the rich cultures of Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena on a luxury highlights tour. Or, pick up the pace and add on the coffee farms and nature reserves around Pereira. Those seeking an island-filled itinerary will find the Caribbean coast and its lavish boutique resorts an excellent match, while travelers eager to get off the beaten path without compromising on creature comforts can set their sights on the interior's countryside and colorful villages.

Discover Cartagena's colorful architecture and Caribbean flavor on a weeklong luxury tour

1 Week in Colombia - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Colombia, you can experience the lavish highlights of Bogotá and Medellín while also fitting in a third destination. Ocean lovers should opt for Cartagena to spend time onboard a luxury catamaran, while Pereira is perfect for hiking enthusiasts, and Macarena is picked for those eager to see the rainbow-hued Caño Cristales waterway. Other options include a trip based around excellent cuisine and an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with exclusive excursions.

Explore Tayrona National Park from the comfort of a luxury boutique hotel (photo courtesy of Villa Playa Tayrona)

Luxury Getaway on Colombia's Caribbean Coast - 10 Days

Get ready for a luxury trip around Colombia's famed Caribbean coast, from colonial cities to windswept beaches. Setting out from the nation's colonial heart in Santa Marta, you'll embark on day trips to coffee farms and national parks before heading to the cobbled streets of Cartagena and relaxing on offshore islands. Amid all the traveling and tours, there will be time to practice your salsa moves, taste local rums, and even fit in a round or two of golf.

Experience lesser-visited Colombian gems like Popayán on this 10-day luxury tour

Colombia's Road Less Traveled in Luxury - 10 Days

There's no better country to travel off the beaten path in luxury and style than Colombia. This 10-day journey takes you into the highlands to the Spanish colonial town of Villa de Leyva, then continues south for more history and refined gastronomy in the "White City" of Popayán. The adventure ends in the verdant Antioquia region with visits to colorful coffee towns and touring the revitalized streets of Medellín.

Your Colombian grand tour ends on the Caribbean coast, amid the historic walls and colorful architecture of Cartagena

Luxury Highlights of Colombia - 10 Days

Any highlights tour of Colombia must include its top cities, most scenic regions, and best cuisine. Luckily, this luxury trip contains all three, starting with museum tours and fine dining in Bogotá and continuing to the famed "Coffee Triangle" for hikes amid towering palms in the Valle de Cocora. Then, experience tango culture in Medellín before hitting the coast for island trips and strolls around colorful Cartagena.

Explore the colorful streets of Cartagena from your 5-star base within the Walled Town (photo courtesy of Casa San Agustín)

Luxury Tour of Colombia's Cities: Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena - 10 Days

See Colombia in luxurious style as you enjoy adventures in the big three cities: Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Experience culture in the capital with museum visits followed by foodie tours and wild nights out at legendary Andrés Carne de Res. Then, fly to Medellín for day trips to coffee farms before ending in the colonial fortress city of Cartagena, where you'll mix island hopping and salsa dancing with cooking classes.

Your Caribbean adventure kicks off in luxury on Isla Barú (photo courtesy of Hotel Las Islas)

Luxury Island Hopping in Colombia's Caribbean - 10 Days

Many know Colombia for its Spanish colonial cities and soaring Andes mountains, but travel to the Caribbean coast, and you'll discover romantic beaches and coral islands. This 10-day luxury voyage takes you island hopping between castaway ecolodges and beachfront resorts, with leisurely days spent snorkeling and sunbathing on white sands. A highlight of the trip is a visit to San Andrés—fast becoming known as one of the Caribbean's hidden island gems.

Villa de Leyva's historic central square is one of the largest in the Americas

Authentic Luxury in Colombia's Interior: Bogotá, Villa de Leyva & Cali - 7 Days

Enjoy first-class treatment as you venture into Colombia's interior for a look at three beguiling destinations, each boasting its own distinct culture and cuisine. In Bogotá, learn how to make the cold-weather comfort dish ajiaco, followed by a cheesemaking workshop in the colonial center of Villa de Leyva. Then you're off to sultry Cali, the capital of salsa, to see live dancing and get a bird's-eye view of the beautiful Cauca Valley on a helicopter tour.

See Caño Cristales, one of Colombia's greatest natural wonders, on this weeklong luxury trip

Luxury Adventure on Colombia's Rainbow River: Bogotá, Caño Cristales & Medellín - 7 Days

If you're an adventurer who likes rugged outdoor excursions mixed with luxurious creature comforts, this weeklong Colombia trip is for you. It begins in Bogotá with sightseeing in the historic center and a trip on the Caño Cristales, a river that shines in a bright rainbow of colors. Enjoy stays in 5-star boutique hotels and a luxury ecolodge before finishing in Medellín with organic cooking classes and visits to storybook countryside towns.

Views over Cartagena from the rooftop at your 5-star hotel (photo courtesy of Casa San Agustín)

Luxury Culture & Cuisine in Colombia - 7 Days

Calling all architecture and food lovers—it's time to pack your bags because you're off to the coolest corners of Colombia. Travel in luxury as you enjoy the gardens and gourmet restaurants of Medellín and, later, stroll down Cartagena's cobbled streets to snack on street food and decadent chocolate. In between, you'll visit the colonial mountain town of Barichara and cap the trip with island hopping in Islas del Rosario.

Go behind the scenes in the Zona Cafetera with a private coffee farm experience

Luxury Tour of Colombia's Mountains, Valleys & Zona Cafetera - 7 Days

No mountains on earth are like the mighty Andes that pass through Colombia. Venture deep into this range on a weeklong luxury tour to visit colorful colonial villages, coffee-country farms, and the famous Valle de Cocora, a wonderland of hilly cloud forests dotted with towering palms. You'll also enjoy highlights of Bogotá and Medellín and even play Colombia's national sport—a game that involves beer and gunpowder.

Learn about the history of Palenqueras in Cartagena

Luxury Colombia Highlights Tour - 7 Days

Only have a week to craft the trip of a lifetime? Not to worry—you can hit the famous highlights of Colombia in style with this perfectly paced luxury itinerary. Go on the hunt for glimmering emeralds in Bogotá, enjoy world-class dining in trendy Medellín, soar over the verdant Antioquia countryside in a helicopter, explore the cobbled streets of Spanish colonial Cartagena, go island-hopping in a private catamaran, and much more.

Relax in the town of Salento after hiking in Valle de Cocora

Bogotá, Amazon, Coffee Triangle & Cartagena - 10 Days

For first-timers to Colombia, this fun itinerary gets you hopping all over the country starting with the cosmopolitan city of Bogotá and the lush Amazon region. Then you'll fly to the heart of Colombia's coffee triangle for an overnight at a working farm. While here, hike the lush green mountains of the Valle de Cocora before flying north to the Caribbean coast where you'll have time to explore the narrow streets of Cartagena's inner-walled city. End the adventure with a relaxing boat trip to the Rosario Islands.

A colorful street corner in Cartagena, Colombia

Bogotá, Cartagena & the Rosario Islands: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten days to two weeks is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Bogotá, Cartagena, and the Rosario Islands, especially when also including Medellín. If you're not interested in Medellín, a week to nine days is enough for your Bogotá, Cartagena, and Rosario Islands trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Bogotá, Cartagena, and the Rosario Islands and beyond.

Tintinpan and Isla Múcura in San Bernardo Islands, on Colombia's Caribbean Coast

Bogotá, Medellín, the San Bernardo Islands & Cartagena: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 10 to 12 days is the perfect amount of time for a Colombia trip, with stops in Bogotá, Medellín, the San Bernardo Islands, and Cartagena. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in nine days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Barichara and Villa de Leyva. See more ideas for itineraries below.

Medellín: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Medellín spend about eight to 10 days in Colombia, which usually includes some time in Bogotá and Cartagena as well. For travelers wanting to visit Medellín exclusively, plan four to six days for a well-paced trip. For the best itineraries, including Medellín, keep reading below.

Bogotá & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting both Bogotá and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Medellín and Cartagena. If you're not interested in Medellín and Cartagena, five to seven days is enough for your Bogotá and Zona Cafetera trip. Check out the below favorite Bogotá and Zona Cafetera trips.

Dawn breaks over the Colombian Andes in Zona Cafetera, a region where coffee and cocoa grow in abundance

Bogotá, Medellín & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Bogotá, Medellín, and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Cartagena. If you're not interested in Cartagena, seven to nine days is enough for your Bogotá, Medellín, and Zona Cafetera trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Bogotá, Medellín, and Zona Cafetera, and beyond.

Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & the Rosario Islands: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find 10 days to two weeks perfect for a well-paced Colombia trip with stops in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the Rosario Islands. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as nine days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region, like Zona Cafetera, Tayrona National Park, or Santa Marta. Keep reading for more inspiring Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the Rosario Islands itineraries.

Cartagena & the Rosario Islands: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, about a week is the perfect amount of time for a Colombia trip with stops in both Cartagena and the Rosario Islands. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as four to six days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another city like Bogotá. See more ideas for Cartagena and the Rosario Islands itineraries below.

Take a scenic hike to the top Monserrate in Bogotà

Bogotá & Medellín: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting both Bogotá and Medellín spend about eight to 10 days in Colombia, which usually includes some time in another stop like Cartagena, Zona Cafetera, or Tayrona National Park. For travelers wanting to visit Bogotá and Medellín exclusively, plan six to eight days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as four or five days. Check out our favorite Bogotá and Medellín trips below.

Get back to nature with a multi-day adventure in Colombia's Amazon region

Bogotá & the Amazon: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that five to seven days is perfect for a well-paced Colombia trip with stops in both Bogotá and the Amazon. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Cartagena and the Zona Cafetera. Get inspired with our Bogotá and Amazon trip ideas below.

Explore Cartegena's colorful Old Town and preserved fortress on foot

Medellín, Cartagena & Tayrona National Park: Best Itinerary Ideas

Thirteen to 15 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Medellín, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park, especially when also including Bogotá and Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in Bogotá and Zona Cafetera, eight to 11 days is enough for your trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as six or seven days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Medellín, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park and beyond.

Berrio Park is an urban park located in the heart of Medellín, Colombia's second-largest city

Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & Tayrona National Park: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Colombia typically plan a trip for 13 to 15 days when combining Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park with Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in Zona Cafetera, nine to 12 days is enough for your Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Tayrona National Park trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as eight days. For the best itineraries, keep reading below.

Visit some of Colombia's prettiest beaches in Tayrona National Park

Cartagena & Tayrona National Park: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Colombia typically plan a trip for seven to eight days when combining both Cartagena and Tayrona National Park with another stop like Bogotá, Medellín, Minca, and Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in adding another stop, five to seven days is enough for your Cartagena and Tayrona National Park trip. Check out our favorite Cartagena and Tayrona National Park trips below.

Wander around Cartagena's artsy Getsemani neighborhood

Medellín, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera spend about 10 to 11 days in Colombia, which usually includes some time in Bogotá and Tayrona National Park, as well. For travelers wanting to visit Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera exclusively, plan a week to 10 days for a well-paced trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Medellín, Cartagena, Zona Cafetera, and beyond.

Start your trip in Bogotá, Colombia's largest city and capital

Bogotá & Cartagena: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting both Bogotá and Cartagena, especially when also including Medellín and the Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in adding more stops, six to eight days is enough for your Bogotá and Cartagena trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Bogotá and Cartagena, keep reading below.

Photograph the charming doorways in Colombia's Old Town

Bogotá, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Bogotá, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Medellín and Tayrona National Park. For travelers wanting to visit Bogotá, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera exclusively, plan seven to nine days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in five or six days for travelers with limited time. Check out our favorite Bogotá, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera trips below.

Cartagena, Minca & Tayrona National Park: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that seven to eight days is perfect for a well-paced Colombia trip with stops in Cartagena, Minca, and Tayrona National Park. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five or six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Medellín and Santa Marta. Keep reading for more inspiring itineraries.

Spend quality time in Cartagena's historic Old Town overlooking the Caribbean Sea

Cartagena: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Cartagena spend about eight to 10 days in Colombia, which usually includes some time in Bogotá, Medellín, and the Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in adding stops, five to seven days is enough for your Cartagena trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as four days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Cartagena and beyond.

Break up your city sightseeing with quality time in Colombia's lush coffee region

Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 10 to 11 days is the perfect amount of time for a Colombia trip, with stops in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as eight or nine days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Tayrona National Park. Keep reading for more inspiring Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera itineraries.

There are plenty of photo opportunities in Cartagena's historic Old Town

Medellín & Cartagena: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Colombia typically plan a trip for eight to 10 days when combining both Medellín and Cartagena with Bogotá and the Zona Cafetera. If you're only headed to Medellín and Cartagena, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in a week to eight days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as five or six days. For the best itineraries, including Medellín and Cartagena, keep reading below.

Take a walking tour of Bogotá, which includes Plaza Bolivar, the city's main square

Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that eight to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Colombia trip with stops in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six or seven days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Zona Cafetera and Tayrona National Park. See more ideas for Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena itineraries below.

Hike to Guane to check out its traditional streets and buildings, near Barichara, Santander, Colombia

16 Days in Colombia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Given Colombia's small size, with 16 days, you can visit at least five destinations. First-timers can hit the highlights of Bogotá, stargaze in the Tatacoa Desert, visit a coffee farm in Salento, and sample Cartagena's street food. Wildlife lovers can go bird-watching in the Río Blanco and Timanú Reserves, and active travelers will enjoy hiking in Chingaza National Park and rafting the Río Calderas. Those keen on culture can engage with Indigenous communities in Uitoto Maloca and the Sierra Nevada.

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