Colombia Travel Insights

Start your journey in Cartagena, "Pearl of the Caribbean"

Explore Colombia: the Caribbean Coast & Zona Cafetera - 12 Days

This laid-back 12-day itinerary takes you through the highlights of Colombia's Caribbean coast, then detours south to explore the heart of the country's lush coffee-growing region. Stroll Cartagena's historic Old Town, swim in the turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands, and discover the pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park. Fly south into the Zona Cafetera for two days visiting coffee farms and hiking amongst giant palms in the Valle de Cocora, then return to Cartagena to end your journey with more culture and cuisine in the "Pearl of the Caribbean."

The golden sands of Tayrona National Park

Colombia Family Adventure: Cartagena & the Caribbean Coast - 9 Days

Colombia's magical Caribbean coast is the star attraction on this 9-day family-friendly adventure. Immerse yourselves in the swashbuckling history of Cartagena, then venture deep into the untouched paradise of Tayrona National Park. After heading inland to discover the lush mountains and coffee farms around Minca, return to the coast to end your trip swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the San Bernardo Islands.

Family-Friendly Colombia: Medellín & Cartagena - 8 Days

With a blend of cities, nature, and beaches, this Colombia itinerary features fun for the whole family. The adventure starts in Medellín, where you'll soar over the city by cable car and discover exotic sea creatures in the Explora Aquarium. After day trips into the surrounding countryside to visit mountain lakes and colorful villages, fly to magical Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Here you'll embark on a treasure hunt through its historic center and swim in the crystal clear seas of the nearby Rosario Islands.

Colombia Cities & Coasts: Bogotá, Medellín, Nuquí & Cartagena - 12 Days

Discover three of Colombia's major cities and both of its spectacular coasts on this comprehensive 12-day itinerary. Starting in the capital of Bogotá, you'll head to up-and-coming Medellín to hike around the lakeside town of Guatapé and get a taste of Colombia's coffee culture. Then it's on to Nuquí to spend three days canoeing, hiking, and soaking in hot springs on the Pacific Coast. End your journey in the magical Caribbean city of Cartagena, where you'll explore its charming neighborhoods and relax on the white sand beaches of the nearby Rosario Islands.

Cartagena, queen of Colombia's Caribbean coast

Colombia Adventure: Medellín, Bogotá, Cartagena & Caribbean Islands - 9 Days

This 9-day Colombian adventure blends culture and cuisine with a dash of Caribbean beach holiday. Starting in the reborn metropolis of Medellín, you’ll tour a local coffee farm, discover the vibrant neighborhood of Comuna 13, and walk the candy-colored streets of Guatapé. Next, it’s on to the engaging capital of Bogotá to explore the city by bike. Head to the Caribbean coast to learn about authentic Colombian cooking and discover Cartagena’s characterful Old Town, then set sail to the Isle of Múcura for swimming and snorkeling in an island paradise.

Colombia's second city has undergone a major transformation in recent decades

How Many Days to Spend in Medellín

Medellín, the capital of Colombia's Antioquia region, is perfect for a quick vacation—you can see the highlights, like Plaza Botero and the hip El Poblado neighborhood, in just 24 hours. Come for two or three days, and you can visit museums and botanical parks, plus ride a gondola high into the hillside comunas. With four to five days, the entire region opens up for a trip to the colorful country town of Guatapé to see its famous granite monolith, El Peñol.

Panoramic View of Meissen District, Bogotá

Explore Bogotá & Cartagena - 9 Days

This tour of Colombia starts in the bustling capital of Bogotá, where you'll explore its trendy neighborhoods and culinary scene before hiking through the nearby nature reserves of Chicaque and Chingaza. Make your way to the coastal city of Cartagena for walking tours of its walled Old Town, then head to the Rosario Islands in the Caribbean Sea. Relax along the white-sand beaches, try your luck with sports such as snorkeling and kayaking, tour mangrove farms, and view the bioluminescent plankton at night.

Best of Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena - 9 Days

Explore three of Colombia's most exciting cities on this nine-day adventure. Start in Bogotá, the sprawling cosmopolitan capital. Tour the colonial streets of the historic center, taste local cuisine, and visit museums. Then, transfer to Medellín to see street art and communal projects and learn about Colombian coffee culture. The adventure ends in tropical Cartagena, where you'll appreciate Spanish forts and architecture, enjoy fresh seafood, and swim in the Caribbean.

Explore Colombia's Cities & Nature - 11 Days

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.

Stunning views across Guatapé Lake from Peñol Rock, near Medellín.

Diverse Colombia: Nature, Culture & Caribbean Islands - 15 Days

This whirlwind 15-day Colombian itinerary covers everything from culture and heritage to adventure and Caribbean beaches. Start in the reborn metropolis of Medellín, a city whose reputation as a global hotspot is enhanced by its rising culinary and arts scenes. After city life, it's time for a bit of nature as you embark on a two-day rafting journey down the Río Verde. Continue your adventure on the Caribbean coast, where you'll explore Cartagena's Old Town and enjoy a day trip to the nearby Rosario Islands. End your journey in the paradise of Tayrona National Park, with its perfect mix of beaches, jungles, and mountains.

Discover Colombia: Bogotá, Boyacá, Cartagena, Rosario Islands - 9 Days

Explore the highlights of Colombia on this tour that includes the vibrant cities of Bogotá and Cartagena, where you'll enjoy guided walking tours, a ride up the cable car to the top of Monserrate Hill, and a visit the unique Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá. Head into the Colombian countryside to discover the heritage villages of Boyacá, including the open-air museum featuring traditional architecture, food, art, and dances. Find time to relax by soaking in the hot springs and enjoying mud massages in Paipa, and then spend a day on the white-sand beaches of the Rosario Islands.

Pueblito Paisa on Nutibara Hill, Medellín

Highlights of Colombia - 9 Days

Discover the vibrant country of Colombia by combining lively cities with scenic countryside, starting in Medellín with a guided tour led by local hip-hop artists. Escape to the hills with a visit to a family-run coffee farm, the village of Guatapé, and a hike up La Piedra Rock. Then head to Cartagena, where you'll explore its colonial streets and neighborhoods, learn how to cook traditional cuisine with a local family, and relax on the white-sand beaches of the Rosario Islands.

Cartagena and the San Bernardo Islands - 6 Days

Discover the vibrant city of Cartagena in this family-friendly trip, starting with a guided walking tour through the city's colonial past, exploring its colorful buildings, monuments, and street art. Experience the region's incredible gastronomic identity by cooking traditional recipes with a local family, using techniques passed down from generations. End your trip at a beach resort in the San Bernardo Islands, with clear waters perfect for lounging, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more.

Colorful Streets of Getsemaniaera in Cartagena

Discover Cartagena and the Rosario Islands - 6 Days

Explore the colorful city of Cartagena in this family-friendly trip, starting with a guided walking tour through the city's colonial past and its 17th-century fortress, plus a cooking class with a local family. Enjoy a day trip to the white-sand beaches and protected coral reefs of the Rosario Islands, with activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. End your trip in the town of La Boquilla, where you'll learn traditional fishing techniques from local fishermen and enjoy a seafood lunch based on your daily catch.

The turquoise waters and lush mountains of Colombia's Caribbean coast.

Colombia's Caribbean Coast: Tayrona & Cartagena - 9 Days

This diverse 9-day itinerary showcases the highlights of Colombia's Caribbean coast. Start by soaking up the colonial charm, vibrant nightlife, and myriad attractions of Cartagena, then head north to the bustling Pacific port of Santa Marta. Spend your final three days immersed in the natural beauty of Tayrona Natural Park, where you'll hike through biodiverse rainforests, explore sandy beaches and volcanic coves, and tour the lush coffee farms of nearby Minca.

A view over the lush coffee-growing country of Colombia.

Coffee & Culture: Explore Colombia's Zona Cafetera - 6 Days

This six-day itinerary takes you deep into the lush, mountainous landscape of Colombia's Zona Cafetera or "coffee triangle." Start with a trip to an organic coffee "finca" (farm) where you'll follow the bean-to-cup process and sample the high-quality brews. After you're fully caffeinated, set off to discover the rest of the region's highlights—hiking through the towering palms of the Valle de Cocora, birdwatching in the Rio Blanco Nature Reserve, exploring traditional villages, and soaking in the thermal waters of Santa Rosa de Cabal.

Experience Colombia's Amazon - 4 Days

This 4-day excursion into the Amazon will give you a taste of one of the most beautiful and diverse ecosystems in the world. This itinerary is the perfect introduction to the Amazon as it will bring you down the river, through the rainforest, and into various indigenous communities along the way. Take a boat cruise along the Amazon River, stroll through the eco-friendly village of Puerto Nariño, take a dip in the beautiful waters of Lake Tarapoto, and more.

Explore Cartagena's colorful Old Town on foot and horse-drawn carriage

How Many Days to Spend in Cartagena

To visit Cartagena is to step back in time to the days of conquistadores and colonialists. Even in a mere 24 hours, you could experience this spirit on a tour of Cartagena's historic Walled City, plus enjoy a carriage ride along its cobbled streets. With a couple of days, you could laze on white-sand beaches and tour its famous castles, and with close to a week, there are options for day trips to gorgeous Caribbean islands and protected national parks. Keep reading for all the details.

Explore Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena - 8 Days

On this eight-day excursion, you'll visit Bogotá, the largest city in Colombia and a melting pot of people from around the country. Travel to Medellín and see with your own eyes how it's transformed from one of the most dangerous cities to a fascinating destination. Then explore Cartagena, the jewel of the Caribbean ocean, and go on a trip to the beautiful beaches and islands nearby.

Expect plenty of verdant scenery in Colombia's Coffee Region

How Many Days to Spend in Colombia's Coffee Region

Colombia is world-renowned for its coffee, and most travelers want to spend at least a day or two getting to know the region where this delicacy is grown and produced. Although a single overnight is enough to glimpse the Zona Cafetera, an in-depth visit can be more rewarding. That way, you won't just see the plantations that take the world's favorite drink from bean to cup—you'll also spend the night on a coffee farm, hike the verdant hills, and meet the people who make the magic happen.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Bogotá?

How Many Days to Spend in Bogotá

As an international hub, Bogotá remains the first point of contact for many travelers to Colombia, and it's worth spending two or three days exploring the country's dynamic capital city. If you're coming here only as a stop on the way to another Colombian locale, you may only have 24 hours to fill. But if you have the time and interest, this city and its surroundings reward leisurely visits of up to five days with exciting day trips outside the city.

Cartagena & Caribbean Colombia - 6 Days

Cartagena is the sum of its incredible parts: colonial and modern architecture, vibrant nightlife and cultural festivals, magnificent beaches, and outstanding gastronomic offerings. This six-day tour exposes you to some of the best sights, sounds, and experiences of the Caribbean city, from its dreamy beaches to local cuisine that you can learn to cook for yourself, and much more.

Colombia Highlights: Bogotá, Coffee Region, Medellín & Cartagena - 14 Days

This journey begins in Bogotá, a melting pot of people from around the country. You'll then head to a nearby small town to witness a spectacular salt cathedral, one of Colombia's most visited attractions. Afterward, head east to the Coffee Region where you'll tour small towns, visit a coffee farm, and see the tallest wax palm trees in the world. The adventure continues in Medellín, Tayrona National Park, and Cartagena.

A skyline view of the city of Medellín, Colombia's capital

Discover Medellín & Cartagena - 9 Days

Discover the hidden wonders of Colombia on this excursion through two of its historic cities. Travel to Medellín, capital of the Antioquia province, and see with your own eyes how the once-controversial city has transformed through its rich Paisa culture. You'll then explore Cartagena—the jewel of the Caribbean ocean—for the second half of the trip and experience the nearby beaches and islands first-hand.

Colombian Cities and Nature: Bogotá, Amazon, Medellín, and Pacific Coast - 15 Days

This high-end itinerary covers a great deal of the country's territory, from its main cities to some off-the-beaten-path natural wonders. The adventure begins in Bogotá and its surroundings, then takes you deep into the heart of the mighty Amazon River, where you'll have a series of unforgettable days exploring the jungle via foot, canoe and small boats. Afterwards, you'll fly to Medellín to enjoy the city's history and vibrant modern culture before leaving for the Pacific Coast— a dense rainforest where you'll visit tiny villages and partake in a variety of activities including hiking and soaking in hot springs.

Learn all about Colombia's famous coffee and chocolate

Discover Colombia's Coffee Region - 6 Days

Learn all about Colombian coffee and enjoy some of the most exclusive coffee in the world on this six-day tour. You can look forward to many coffee tastings and visits to local Colombian coffee farms where you will interact with local farmers and coffee experts from around the country.

A view of the islands of near Cartagena.

Cartagena and Colombia's Islands - 7 Days

Explore some of the best destinations along Colombia's northern coast on this 7-day adventure that combines a fast-paced urban adventure with the relaxing allure of a tropical island retreat. Tour the colorful Caribbean jewel of Cartegena, then head to a personalized island escape where you can recharge. For travelers who can't choose between an active trip and a secluded getaway, this itinerary offers the best of both worlds.

See the best of Colombia all on one trip!

Highlights of Colombia: Medellín, Cartagena & Bogotá - 12 Days

Interested in seeing the very best cities and memorable natural scenery in the beautiful country of Colombia? Begin your trip in Medellín, a city nestled in the Andes mountains, and then head to Cartagena, the jewel of the Caribbean, with its colorful and vibrant culture. Enjoy a night at an island escape before topping it all off with a visit to Bogotá, Colombia's cultural and culinary hub.

13 Days in Colombia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thirteen days is plenty of time to have satisfying experiences in each of Colombia's three most popular cities—including day trips from each—plus time in the mountains or at the beach, all without rushing. Or mix and match your urban adventures with outdoor fun and cultural experiences: go whitewater rafting down a jungle river, visit working coffee farms, take a cooking class in Cartagena, learn to dance salsa in Cali, or snorkel around the Rosario Islands.

Enjoy time bird-watching in Minca and observe the keel-billed toucan

12 Days in Colombia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In a 12-day trip, you can comfortably combine the cultural highlights of Colombia's cities with exploration in national parks. Strike your perfect balance with the itineraries below. Tour Medellín, Bogotá, and Tayrona National Park, or divide your time between the Amazon and the Andes. Check out wildlife sanctuaries and indigenous villages, discover the beaches and history of the Caribbean coast, or get off the beaten path in Santander, a true adventure hub.

Early morning in Los Nevados National Park, Colombia

11 Days in Colombia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Taking an 11-day trip means you can spend multiple days in each of Colombia's diverse cities—Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena— and add one of the country's beloved natural areas, all without rushing. Or do a deep dive into one region, like the Caribbean coast: start with two days of exploring Tayrona National Park, then base yourself in Cartagena for kayaking, sailing, and island-hopping excursions. See more options for your trip below, including cultural activities, archeological sites, and Andean treks.

Stay two nights in Barichara's charming village.

Culture and Nature in Colombia: Cities, Landscapes, & Colonial Villages - 13 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this action-packed itinerary starts with a few days in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá. Along the route, you'll visit Spanish colonial towns like Villa de Leyva and Barichara. Next is a few days in the up-and-coming city of Medellín.

Highlights of Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the Zona Cafetera - 13 Days

Start your highlights tour in Bogotá, Colombia's Andean capital. From there, head to the Cocora Valley, where you'll sleep in a typical hacienda and tour a working coffee farm. Feel the country moving ahead in vibrant Medellin and experience the contrast between the city's modern downtown and traditional surrounding villages. End your trip in romantic, colonial Cartagena, enjoying a cocktail on the famous wall surrounding the old city.

Caribbean Birding Tour in Colombia: Cartagena, Minca, & Tayrona National Park - 11 Days

On this multifaceted, 11-day tour, you’ll explore the Caribbean region of Colombia and its biodiverse landscapes. The trip begins in Cartagena, a vibrant port city with a rich history and plenty of sites to see. Then, you’re off to Santa Marta and Minca for four, full days of birding among the various ecosystems. The trip concludes in Tayrona Park, with its beautiful beaches and cultural excursions among the natives.

Authentic Colombia: Cities, Archaeology, & Coffee Country - 16 Days

During this 16-day tour through Colombia, you’ll visit some of the best-known–and some lesser-known–parts of the country. The trip takes you from the capital, Bogotá, to the Archaeological Region in the southwest. You’ll also head into the coffee-growing region to tour a farm and say in a hacienda. Then, you’ll fly over deep valleys and high Andean mountain peaks to arrive at vibrant Cartagena, one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in South America.

Board a motorboat to explore your surroundings and check out Caño Cristales

9 Days in Colombia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days, it's possible to visit four of Colombia's regions and major cities, especially if you fly into one hub and out of another. You can start in Bogotá, make your way to the lush Zona Cafetera, and head north to Medellín, departing from Cartagena. Of course, you can always opt for a slower-paced trip that takes you off the beaten path: visit colonial villages like Villa de Leyva, spot wildlife in remote national parks, or lounge on the Rosario Islands off the Caribbean coast.

Visit San Agustín Archaeological Park to check out the mysterios pre-Colombian stone sculptures

8 Days in Colombia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Colombia is renowned for its historic cities and dramatic landscapes. With an eight-day trip, you can split your time between the urban and natural worlds, especially if you stick to one region. Pair charming Cartagena with scenic spots along the Caribbean Coast, visit the rainbow-hued Caño Cristales after exploring Bogotá, or spend half your trip surrounded by art in Medelliín and the other half trekking in Coffee Country. Options abound—see more unique itinerary ideas below.

The Rosario Islands off the coast of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

15 Days in Colombia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Fifteen days in Colombia is enough time to see three important cities, along with at least one of the country's famed natural areas. A popular choice is to combine Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena with either Tayrona National Park or the Zona Cafetera (Coffee Country). You can also trade time in one of the cities for an island experience on the Caribbean Coast, a trek in the Andes, or whitewater rafting on the Río Verde. Read more about your options for a 15-day trip below.

Medellín & Colombia's Southern Interior - 13 Days

This active, 13-day adventure is designed for those who want to experience Colombia’s vast, cultural interior. Start off in Colombia’s second-largest city, Medellín, with a scenic gondola and its year-round spring-like weather. Next, you'll head to Cali, the salsa capital of the world, and Popayán, with its stunning Baroque architecture. Finally, you’ll explore archaeological parks in San Agustín and Tierradentro, while finishing the trip in the Tatacoa Desert.

Consider climbing the 740 steps of El Peñón de Guatapé (The Rock of Guatapé) for beautiful panoramas

6 Days in Colombia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days is plenty of time to explore two major cities or regions in Colombia. Choose the bustling capital of Bogotá, the rebirth of now-charming Medellín, or the adventurous port town of Cartagena. If you enjoy birding, go deep into the jungle in Santa Marta among the Sierra Nevada range. For beach lovers, there's island-hopping from San Andrés to Providencia, while coffee aficionados can relish staying on a coffee finca.

Cartagena & Island Adventure - 4 Days

Pair Cartagena's colonial walled city on the northern coast with the nearby Caribbean Islands for the ultimate culture and beach adventure. Start with a tour of Cartagena's colorful streets, lined with palaces, churches, and galleries. Then take a day trip to the Rosario Islands to relax on white-sand beaches. Spend your last night in Cartagena's Old Town, soaking in the fairy-tale romance from one of the city's rooftop bars.

Essential Colombia: Bogotá, Cartagena, & Coffee Country - 9 Days

During this eight-day trip to Colombia, plan to visit some of the best-known parts of the country. First, stroll the capital city of Bogotá before heading to the small, colorful town of Villa de Leyva. Then, visit a coffee farm in Armenia and learn all about the crop. The journey ends with a tour of the historic shipping port of Cartagena, where you can enjoy excellent food and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights of Colombia: Cities, Coast, & Colonial Highlands - 15 Days

Visit Colombia's cities, countryside, and coast on this comprehensive tour. Visit charming colonial towns like Barichara and Villa de Leyva, the modern metropolitan city of Medellín, and the colorful village of Guatape. Visit a working coffee farm and learn the entire process that goes into your morning cup. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Cartagena and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands.

Rock of Guatapé (Piedra de Penol), near Medellín.

Highlights of Colombia: Cities & the Caribbean Coast - 16 Days

This classic Colombia itinerary starts in Bogotá and then travels north to the Caribbean. Along the route, you'll visit famous salt mines and charming colonial towns like Barichara and Villa de Leyva, with a couple of days to explore the modern metropolitan city of Medellín. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Cartagena before relaxing on the pristine beaches of the San Bernardo Islands.

Highlights of Colombia: Cities, Caribbean Coast, & Tayrona National Park - 15 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this classic Colombian itinerary starts in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá and then travels north to the Caribbean Sea. Along the route, you'll visit the rolling green hills and colorful colonial houses of the coffee region. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Tayrona National Park before heading to the romantic inner-walled city of Cartagena and jetting off to the San Bernardo Islands.

Luxury Colombia Eco-Adventure: Amazon Rainforest & Pacific Coast - 15 Days

This high-end itinerary starts in the capital of Bogotá before heading deep into the heart of the mighty Amazon River—from here, you'll head out on a series of unforgettable days via foot, canoe and other small boats. Then, fly to Medellín to explore the history and vibrant modern culture of the city before flying to the Pacific Coast, a dense rainforest where you'll explore tiny villages and partake in a variety of activities including hiking and soaking in hot springs.

Bogotá, Medellín, & the Pacific Coast - 13 Days

Colombia's wild and undiscovered region of Chocó on the Pacific coast takes center stage in this 13-day itinerary. The adventure starts in the country's capital city and nearby national parks. From there, visit Medellín, take in the dazzling views from a hike around lakeside Guatapé, and taste Colombia's coffee at the source. End in Nuquí, a dense rainforest where you'll spend three days exploring tiny villages and partaking in outdoor activities.

Medellín & the Los Nevados Trek - 8 Days

Colombia Outdoor Adventure: Medellín & Los Nevados Trek - 8 Days

This active Colombian adventure includes three days of trekking in the snowy mountains of Los Nevados National Park, which sprawls across 143,000 acres of the Colombian Andes. Enjoy hiking through a unique high-elevation ecosystem, where rare species of flora and fauna thrive. You will also have time to explore the charming colonial town of Salento, the coffee region hub of Manizales, and the revitalized city of Medellín—the best of both worlds.

Explore Colombia: Medellín & Los Nevados - 9 Days

The core of this adventure includes three days of trekking in the high, snowy mountains of Los Nevados National Park. With ancient ancestral pathways, your journey passes through an extraordinary ecosystem with rare species of flora and fauna that rely on the snow for preservation. You will land in the up-and-coming city of Medellín, along with taking a day trip to a coffee farm to close out your Colombian exploration.

Colombia's Caribbean Coast: Tayrona, Cartagena, Rosario Islands - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary explores the diverse Caribbean coast of Colombia, from the sand dunes of La Guajira desert to the mountain village of Minca. Start in Cartagena, with its charming streets and markets, before a tubing excursion on a jungle river in Palomino. Next, you'll hike through Tayrona National Park. Your adventure finishes back in Cartagena and ends with a relaxing day trip to the beaches of the Rosario Islands.