2-week itinerary in Colombia: the alternative to the must-sees

Colombia, a country of a thousand facets, is a must-see destination for travelers in search of adventure and authenticity. This unique itinerary invites you to discover the hidden gems of this vibrant country: Medellín, El Valle, Jericó and Salamina. Get ready to explore dynamic cities, picturesque villages and breathtaking natural landscapes, while enjoying unforgettable experiences.

Start your journey in Medellín, the “city of eternal spring”. Known for its spectacular transformation and urban innovation, Medellín will seduce you with its dynamism, green spaces and pleasant climate. Next, head to El Valle, on the Pacific coast, where lush jungle meets wild, secluded beaches. Here, nature reigns supreme, offering impressive sights such as humpback whales and sea turtles.

Continue on to Jericó, a colonial village nestled in the mountains of Antioquia. Its cobbled streets and colorful houses will transport you to another time, while its peaceful atmosphere and local traditions will charm you. Finally, end your adventure in Salamina, a jewel of Colombia’s cultural heritage. Perched in the coffee-growing region, Salamina is renowned for its traditional architecture, coffee-planted landscapes and friendly locals.

This two-week itinerary promises total immersion in Colombia’s cultural and natural diversity, far off the beaten track. Get ready to fall under the spell of this fascinating country and create lasting memories.

The times shown are for guidance only and may vary according to flight departure and arrival times and the organization of all-inclusive tours.

Course

2-week itinerary in Colombia: the alternative to the must-sees

Duration: 2 weeks. Entering and leaving Colombia from Medellín

When to go (ideally): July to September

5 Stages : Medellín x2, El Valle, Jericó, Salamina

Travel: bus, cab, plane (2 internal flights)

Activities: city tours, visits to heritage villages, mountain and jungle hiking, snorkeling/diving, coffee finca tours, beaches, birdwatching, water sports, whale watching

Physical level required: medium/high

Medellín, nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant year-round climate, is a dynamic metropolis nestled in the Aburrá Valley. Once a notorious disaster, Medellín has become a model of urban innovation and resilience. The city stands out for its modern transport system, including the famous Metrocable, which links the mountainous districts to the city center.

Medellín offers a rich cultural diversity with museums such as the Museo de Antioquia, home to the works of Fernando Botero, and annual events such as the Feria de las Flores. Visitors can explore the lively El Poblado district, renowned for its stores, restaurants and nightlife, or relax in green spaces such as the Botanical Gardens.

Thanks to its urban and social revitalization initiatives, Medellín has become a must-see destination that blends history, culture and modernity. This remarkable transformation makes it an essential place to discover the dynamic and innovative soul of Colombia.

Day 1: Medellín – Arrival

Your adventure in Colombia begins as soon as you arrive at Medellín‘s Jose Maria Cordova international airport. After clearing immigration and customs, you can either take a cab (120,000 COP) to your accommodation, or opt for a bus/taxi combo (approx. 30,000 – 40,000 COP). The first evening is free, allowing you to relax after the flight and acclimatize to life in Antioquia’s capital. Use this evening to relax and prepare to discover the wonders of Colombia in the days ahead.

Day 2: Medellín
^{Tour of downtown & Comuna (can be done on your own or with a guide)}

To discover Medellín, start by exploring downtown, where history meets the city’s vibrant energy. Start at Plaza Botero, dotted with Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures, then visit the Museo de Antioquia to immerse yourself in Colombian art. Stroll through the La Candelaria district, where colonial architecture rubs shoulders with modern buildings, and explore Parque Berrío, the city’s historic heart. Then, take the Metrocable to a comuna such as the famous Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods and now a symbol of transformation and resilience. Alternatively, explore the less touristy comunas 3, 4 or 8 with a guide. Join a guided tour to understand the history of these neighborhoods, admire the superb murals and talk to residents about community initiatives. This combination of vibrant downtown and revitalized comuna offers an authentic glimpse of Medellín’s urban renaissance. End your day enjoying the lively nightlife in the Laureles or El Poblado districts.

Located on Colombia’s Pacific coast, the El Valle region is a natural sanctuary where biodiversity reigns supreme. Surrounded by dense tropical forests and bordered by the Pacific Ocean, this area is home to a unique and well-preserved ecosystem. Every year, the waters of the Colombian Pacific welcome majestic humpback whales on their breeding grounds, while El Valle’s black sand beaches provide a haven for sea turtles to lay their eggs, offering visitors magical moments of marine life.

The surrounding forests echo with the songs of multicolored birds, attracting birdwatchers from all over the world. Rare species such as the scarlet-backed cotinga and the palm tanager add vibrant touches to the verdant landscape. Exploring the jungle trails, it’s possible to spot capuchin monkeys, poison frogs and a fascinating variety of insects.

El Valle is an isolated region, sandwiched between the ocean, the jungle and the Andes. While this isolation is beneficial for the flora and fauna, it also limits economic development. The towns here are modest, where every project represents a real challenge.

To stay in the Chocó department, you can opt for an “all-inclusive” package (accommodation, meals, activities) directly with the lodges, which simplifies trip organization. Another option is to book accommodation only and find guides on site, either in the villages or through local accommodation. However, good preparation is needed to optimize time on site, as the activities on offer are generally organized and last around half a day each.

Day 3 / TRANSFER / El Valle

After a peaceful night in Medellín, get ready to head to Enrique Olaya Herrera airport in the city for your flight to the Pacific coast. These morning flights last about an hour and are only available in the morning, operated by Satena or ClicAir. Expect to discover probably the smallest, most rustic and exotic airport in Bahia Solano: José Celestino Mutis. You’ll be greeted by the heat typical of low altitudes, with humidity that’s sure to surprise you. However, it’s all worth the effort when you find yourself in the heart of dense jungles leading to the Pacific Ocean. Once you’ve arrived at your accommodation for lunch, sample a variety of fish dishes typical of the coastal region. Then enjoy some free time to make yourself comfortable and explore the surrounding area, including a trip to the beach, before dinner.

Note 1: Medellín has two airports. The international airport is José María Córdova (MDE), 17 km from the city. Flights to Chocó depart exclusively from Enrique Olaya Herrera airport, in the heart of the city.

Note 2: There are no ATMs in Chocó. Make sure you withdraw enough money in Medellín before you leave.

Day 4: El Valle
^{Jungle trekking + Canoeing}

The day begins with a guided excursion through the jungle surrounding the village. On this walk, visitors can discover an incredible diversity of local flora and fauna. If they’re lucky, they may spot monkeys, toucans and even brightly-colored dendrobates. Basilisks, nicknamed “Jesus Christ lizards” for their ability to run on water, add a spectacular dimension to this adventure, as do the multitude of insects, including the inevitable mosquitoes. The hike ends near a charming little waterfall, offering a well-deserved refreshing break for a swim. The return to El Valle is aboard a traditional wooden canoe, gliding peacefully along the Tundó and Valle rivers. Along the way, it’s possible to spot small caimans and a variety of birds, including waders and kingfishers. You’ll be back for lunch and have the afternoon to relax on the beach, as the heat and humidity can be exhausting. We recommend starting this activity as early as possible (around 6-7 a.m.) to maximize your chances of animal sightings and take advantage of more pleasant temperatures.

We suggest you coordinate with your accommodation to arrange a short night hike (approx. 1 hour) in the jungle. This is a fascinating opportunity to observe a multitude of insects and frogs, although sometimes a little frightening due to the size of some specimens.

Day 5: El Valle
^{Natural pools + Whale watching}

Today you’ll spend your day exploring the sea and its treasures. You’ll start with a guided walk along the beach, where you’ll discover natural aquariums and pools formed between the rocks. At low tide, you can easily observe various species of fish in the calm, crystal-clear waters. Equipped with your mask and snorkel, you can fully explore the marine wealth of these havens of aquatic life. After this fascinating immersion, you return to the lodge. In the afternoon, you have several options: freely explore the hidden treasures of the coast on a hike or plan another exciting activity. Or take the time to coordinate a whale-watching trip with your host. Every year, from July to October, the majestic humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Colombian Pacific to reproduce, offering an unforgettable natural spectacle that you can admire from El Valle.

Day 6: El Valle
^{Utria National Nature Park}

Today’s adventure takes you to the region’s main protected nature reserve: Utría National Park. Established in 1987 and covering 54,300 hectares, this park is a true natural gem, particularly spectacular when viewed from the sea. Access is limited and hiking is regulated, adding to its exclusive charm. The hour-long boat trip, sometimes accompanied by playful dolphins, enriches this magical experience. Your day begins with a guided hike through mangroves and forest, where you’ll spot stingrays, puffer fish, hummingbirds, lizards and monkeys. Your guide shares fascinating anecdotes about local medicinal plants and endemic species, enriching your adventure. After this walk, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters of Utría National Park for a snorkeling session. Two sites await you: the first near the park entrance, where a boat wreck lies, and the second at Isla Playa Blanca. After exploring these underwater wonders, you return to El Valle for a late lunch. The day ends with a well-deserved rest and preparations for your departure tomorrow.

Tip: On the way, you can stop off at Mama Orbe (to be arranged in advance), between Parc Utría and El Valle. They run a conservation program for hawksbill turtles, offering the chance to release baby turtles and observe egg-laying whenever possible. The turtle season is active all year round, but is particularly intense from July to December.

Jericó, nestled in the mountains of Antioquia in Colombia, is a heritage village renowned for its preserved colonial architecture and picturesque atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, Jericó offers spectacular panoramic views and enjoys a pleasant year-round climate. Its cobbled streets and colorful houses tell the deep history of the region, dominated by the magnificent Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes cathedral and several museums, including the charming little Maja museums.

Local artisans are famous for their skills in creating carrieles, traditional leather bags emblematic of the region. Nature lovers can explore the hiking trails of the Las Nubes nature reserve, visit coffee plantations, or admire the breathtaking views from the magnificent Cauca Canyon. Jericó is also the birthplace of Santa Laura Montoya, Colombia’s first saint, whose birthplace is a pilgrimage site.

With its peaceful atmosphere, rich cultural heritage and enchanting landscapes, Jericó is a destination of choice for travelers seeking authenticity and natural beauty.

Day 7 / TRANSFER / Jericó

You’re about to experience a day of transition, leaving the wild Pacific coast for the majestic Colombian Andes. Leave the oppressive heat, persistent humidity and mosquitoes behind you. Arrange your transfer from El Valle to Bahia Solano’s José Celestino Mutis airport for an early-morning flight, which will drop you off around noon at Medellín’s Enrique Olaya Herrera regional airport, just a 50-minute flight away. From there, a short walk to the Terminal del Sur allows you to catch a bus to the historic village of Jericó, around 3 to 3.5 hours away. Departures are frequent from the terminal, so there’s no need to stress about timetables. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon in this charming village nestled in the heart of the mountains, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional Andean atmosphere we love so much!

Day 8: Jericó
^{Village tour + Paragliding (bonus)}

Jericó invites you to enjoy an authentic and enchanting experience. Stroll along its cobbled streets lined with colorful houses with flower-filled balconies and soak up its peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Explore the magnificent Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes cathedral, an architectural gem from the mid-20th century, and the Santuario Santa Laura with its superb blue ceiling. Immerse yourself in local history and culture by visiting iconic sites such as the House-Museum of Mother Laura, Colombia’s first saint, and the three MAJA mini-museums. Don’t miss the Botanical Garden, which leads to the El Salvador viewpoint, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding Andes and the tranquility of the area. Finally, simply stroll the streets and savour local delicacies such as cardamom sweets and the famous village dessert, postre jericoano. For those with a little extra time on their hands, an extraordinary experience would be paragliding in the Cauca canyon!

Day 9: Jericó
^{Finca de café Ariel + hike to Las Nubes nature reserve}

For a fun-filled day, start with a short morning hike to the mirador of the Las Nubes nature reserve. This 2 to 2h30 circuit, with an ascent followed by a descent, will reward you with spectacular views at dawn. Then, at 11 a.m., take a jeep from Jericó’s main square to the Ariel coffee finca. This 50-minute drive, followed by a 20-minute walk, will take you to a welcoming farmhouse perched atop a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Cauca canyon. For COP 50,000 per person, you can enjoy a delicious traditional meal and a guided tour of the plantations and facilities. You’ll discover the whole process of growing and harvesting coffee, an experience as enriching as it is captivating. At 3:30 p.m., it’s time to return to the starting point by jeep, arriving in Jericó at around 5 p.m., satisfied with a day rich in discovery and adventure.

Salamina, a heritage village in Colombia’s Caldas department, is a true treasure nestled in the heart of the coffee region. Founded in 1825, this enchanting village is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and peaceful ambience, frozen in time. The cobbled streets, lined with houses featuring colorful facades and carved wooden balconies often adorned with flowers, create a picturesque picture worthy of postcards. In the center of the village, the central square, dominated by the imposing Church of the Immaculate Conception, is the heart of social life. Surrounded by cafés, craft stores and historic buildings, this square is a lively meeting place.

The warm and welcoming people of Salamina are proud of their heritage and culture, which they gladly share with visitors through local stories and deep-rooted traditions. Salamina’s surroundings are equally captivating. The nearby Samaria Valley is famous for the Quindío wax palm, Colombia’s national tree. This valley is a favorite spot for hikers and nature lovers, offering spectacular scenery of green hills and giant palm forests. Birdwatching is popular here, with many endemic species to discover. Salamina is also surrounded by coffee plantations, allowing total immersion in Colombian coffee culture.

Day 10 / TRANSFER / Salamina

To get from Jericó to Salamina by bus, start your journey early in the morning in the direction of La Pintada, a small town at the confluence of the Cauca and Arma rivers. The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours and can be made by chiva, bus or cab. Then take a Flota Occidental bus from the La Pintada terminal to Salamina. This second trip, lasting between 3 and 3h30, will take you through magnificent landscapes of green valleys and coffee plantations.

Day 11: Salamina
^{Village visit + Trapiche visit}

Salamina, a Colombian heritage village, is packed with sites and activities for visitors curious about its historical and cultural charm. In the heart of the village, the central square and the Church of the Immaculate Conception, surrounded by colonial houses with colorful facades and flower-filled balconies, create a picturesque setting. Calle Real, the main street lined with historic buildings and craft stores, is ideal for strolling. The Mirador El Filo, on the outskirts of the village, offers panoramic views of Salamina and the surrounding countryside. The Casa de la Cultura, with its exhibition rooms, reveals elements of Salamina’s heritage, covering the period from pre-Columbian times to the present day. A must-see is a visit to a trapiche, a traditional sugarcane farm, where you can see the process of producing panela, an unrefined sugar essential to Colombian cuisine.

Day 12: Salamina
^{San Felix & Samaria Valley}

San Félix, a picturesque village near Salamina in the Caldas department, is best known for its breathtaking scenery and wax palm forests. To get there, take a bus around 6 a.m., or book a 4×4 (a more expensive option) from the central square for a journey of around an hour. The Samaria Valley, accessible from San Felix, is an emblematic place where you can admire the majestic wax palms, the tallest in the world, rising up to 60 meters in height, similar to those in the Cocora Valley or the Carbonera Valley. The trails wind through green hills and cloud forests, offering spectacular panoramic views and total immersion in the natural beauty and unique biodiversity of this Andean region. Pass through the Mirador del Valle de la Samaria, a reforestation project run by a local family. You can also discover the region on horseback. The bus from San Félix to Salamina leaves from the main square at around 2pm.

We’re back in Medellín! This vibrant city also marks our final stop in Colombia before leaving this splendid country.

Day 13 / TRANSFER / Medellín

To travel from Salamina to Medellín by bus, you can start by going to the Salamina bus terminal. Departures are frequent throughout the day, although it’s advisable to check schedules in advance. Bus companies such as Expreso Sideral, Autolegal and Empresa Arauca offer comfortable journeys to Medellín. The journey generally takes between 5 and 6 hours. The journey takes you through the beautiful hilly and mountainous landscapes of the Antioquia region. Once in Medellín, buses usually disembark at the Terminal del Norte, from where you can easily reach other parts of the city by metro or cab.

Day 14: Departure from Colombia

There you go, it’s already your last day in Colombia, and time has flown! Now it’s time to head for José María Córdova International Airport and say goodbye to this magnificent country. We hope your stay here has brought you as much happiness as we’ve had!

If your flight is late in the day, you can take advantage of the opportunity to stroll through Parque Arví, directly accessible by metro or metrocable.

Budget (estimate)

2-week itinerary in Colombia: the alternative to the must-sees

Here’s an estimate of the total cost per person on site (excluding airfare in and out of Colombia), expressed in Colombian pesos, including fees for guided activities and excursions mentioned in the itinerary.

For trips involving two or more people, sharing a private room can be a more economical option than booking single rooms, often at the same or slightly higher cost. As each situation is unique, it may be necessary to adjust the budget by opting for more modest accommodations or simpler meals, as required.