3-week itinerary in Colombia: the great classics

Welcome to an unforgettable journey through the jewels of Colombia! Our 3-week itinerary in Colombia will take you to discover the great classics of this fascinating country. From majestic Bogotá to the enchanting old town of Cartagena, via the breathtaking landscapes of the coffee region and the heavenly beaches of Tayrona Park, prepare yourself for an unrivalled adventure.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Bogotá, let the nature of the Andes and tropical jungles envelop you, and explore the colorful streets of Medellín. Meet indigenous communities, taste authentic Colombian coffee and soak up the vibrant culture of this South American country. Whether you’re a traveler looking for adventure, culture or relaxation, this 3-week itinerary in Colombia promises a memorable experience. Prepare to be amazed by Colombia, a country where every corner tells a unique story.

Course

3-week itinerary in Colombia: the great classics

Duration: 3 weeks. Entering Colombia from Bogotá and leaving the country from Cartagena

When to go (climate): December to February – June to August

Stages: 6 stages (Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, Coffee region, Medellín, Santa Marta, Tayrona, Cartagena)

Travel: bus, cab, plane (1 internal flight)

Activities: visits to colonial towns & villages, mountain & beach hikes, snorkeling/diving, coffee finca visits

Physical level required: medium

Estimated on-site budget (per person): COP 4,365,000 (frugal budget), COP 9,170,000 (medium budget), COP 21,535,000 (high budget)

Welcome to Bogotá, officially Bogotá Distrito Capital, Colombia’s vibrant capital city. This dynamic metropolis is nestled at an altitude of over 2,600 metres in the heart of the majestic Andes mountains, offering a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Founded in 1538, Bogotá is the country’s largest city, with a diverse and friendly population.

The city’s electric atmosphere is revealed in its lively neighborhoods, colorful markets and vibrant arts scene. The streets of the old town, La Candelaria, are lined with colorful colonial houses that bear witness to the city’s rich historical heritage.

Bogotá also occupies a central position on the cultural scene, home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters and concert halls. The local cuisine is a veritable explosion of Colombian flavors, offering a variety of regional dishes to savor. The city offers a striking contrast between its past and its future, providing a captivating experience for travelers seeking authenticity and contemporary discoveries.

Day 1: Bogotá – Arrival

Your trip to Colombia begins with your arrival at Bogotá ‘s El Dorado international airport on your first day. Once immigration and customs formalities have been completed, you can take a cab to your accommodation. The evening will be free, giving you the chance to recharge your batteries after your flight and acclimatize to the Colombian capital. Take advantage of this first evening to relax and get ready to explore Colombia in the days to come.

Day 2: Bogotá – Visit La Candelaria (including Museo del Oro) and Monserrate
_{Day can be done independently or with a guide}

Discover Bogotá’s history and culture on this leg of your trip. Explore the city center, with its cobblestone streets, century-old churches and museums that bear witness to the Spanish colonial past and Colombian independence. Don’t miss the Museo del Oro, where an exceptional collection of gold and emerald objects retraces pre-Columbian history. In the afternoon, climb to the top of Mount Monserrate, over 3,000 metres above sea level, for a breathtaking panoramic view of Bogotá, offering a unique perspective on the city.

Day 3: Bogotá – Laguna de Guatavita and Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
_{Guided tour – not possible on your own (public transport takes too long)}

Discover two emblematic sites near Bogotá with a tour. Start by exploring the Laguna de Guatavita, a legendary place closely linked to the myth of El Dorado. This lagoon is of immense cultural importance to the indigenous Muisca people. Next, head for the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, a breathtaking underground site carved out of the depths of salt mines. It’s a masterpiece of architecture and engineering that’s sure to intrigue you. After a busy day, return to Bogotá for an evening of rest and relaxation.

Welcome to Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s historic nuggets! Nestled in the majestic Andes mountains, this small colonial town is a treasure trove of Colombian history. Founded in 1572, Villa de Leyva boasts one of the largest town squares on the continent, paved with pebbles and lined with white houses, all at the foot of the Iguaque Fauna and Flora Sanctuary in the Andes, one of the country’s paramos.

The imprint of Spanish colonial architecture is omnipresent, giving the town a timeless atmosphere. The main square is the vibrant heart of the town, surrounded by restaurants, craft stores and open-air cafés, inviting you to relax and contemplate the serenity of this enchanting place. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking panoramas, from mountains to spectacular rock formations.

Villa de Leyva is a must-see destination for history, culture and tranquility enthusiasts, offering a true journey back in time to the heart of colonial Colombia. The town is proud to be one of 17 colonial villages to have been declared a cultural heritage site.

Day 4: Villa de Leyva – Transfer and visit to the historic center

We recommend that you get to Bogotá’s Salitre terminal around 09:00 to catch a bus to Villa de Leyva, a journey of around 3.5 hours. Once there, spend the afternoon exploring this charming colonial village. Start at the main square, one of the largest in South America, then wander through the town’s typical, soothing streets. Take the opportunity to discover other emblematic sites such as the Casa Museo Luis Alberto Acuña or the Convent del Santo Ecce Homo. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this timeless village, ideal for strolling around and immersing yourself in its fascinating history.

Day 5: Villa de Leyva – Mirador El Santo, Casa Terracota, Museo El Fossil

Start your day with a challenging hike up to the Mirador El Santo, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Villa de Leyva and the surrounding area. Then discover Casa Terracota, a unique house built entirely of terracotta, an architectural work of art that will leave you speechless, especially inside. You can also visit the Museo El Fósil (located outside town, accessible by cab or about 1 hour’s walk), a museum renowned for its fossils of prehistoric marine reptiles. Yes, in the distant past, the sea was present here! This area is famous for its many fossil finds. Alternatively, you can continue strolling through the village streets and why not pick up some woollen clothing, such as ruanas, traditional ponchos.

Alternative: visit the village of Ráquira (half-day) OR hike in Iguaque National Park (approx. 7h) OR hike to Pozos Azules (1-2h).

Eje Cafetero is the name that symbolizes Colombia’s coffee region, also known as the “Coffee Triangle”. It is one of the main coffee-producing regions in Colombia and the world (Huila is the leading coffee-producing department). The region is located in the Colombian Andes, and includes the departments of Caldas, Quindío, Risaralda, and parts of Tolima, Valle del Cauca, and Antioquia.

Geographically, Eje Cafetero is located mainly in the majestic Colombian Andes, offering a mountainous climate and altitudes ideal for growing coffee. Coffee culture permeates every aspect of daily life in this region, from the welcoming fincas that open their doors to visitors for tours and tastings, to the local dance, music and cuisine that reflect the soul of coffee.

Finally, the landscapes of the coffee region are breathtaking, with green hills of coffee trees as far as the eye can see, picturesque waterfalls and lush valleys. Coffee plantations perched on steep slopes create a unique topography. A visit to this region is much more than just a tourist getaway; it’s a total immersion in Colombia’s history, culture and natural beauty.

Day 6 / TRANSFER / : Salento
_{If you’re not up to it, you can also take a night bus (on the 3rd night) to save a day.}

Journey by bus, in 2 stages, generally taking 10 hours, sometimes longer due to roadworks. First stage, departure (as early as possible) from Bogotá’s Salitre bus terminal, direction Armenia or Pereira (Espreso Bolivariano, Espreso Brasilia or Berlinas companies). Second step, from the Armenia or Pereira bus terminal, take another bus to Salento (approx. 1h drive), or a cab (but much more expensive). You should arrive in Salento in the evening.

Day 7: Salento – Cocora Valley
_{A day to do on your own – taking a tour is useless and very expensive.}

Cocora Valley is surrounded by green mountains and hills, creating a picturesque landscape. Well-maintained hiking trails allow visitors to explore the valley, cross suspension bridges and enjoy incredible panoramic views. You’ll be able to contemplate the astonishing palm trees (Ceroxylon quindiuense, Colombia’s national tree) which can reach heights of up to 60 metres, making them the tallest palms in the world. In terms of hiking, the loop that passes by the hummingbird house is a nice one, lasting around 5 hours (more or less depending on physical ability). A great walk in the fresh air!

Day 8: Salento – Stroll through the village + Finca de café + Transfer to Manizales
_{Day out on your own – no need to take a tour}

The village of Salento is a charming locality located in the Colombian coffee region, specifically in the department of Quindío. It’s one of Colombia’s most picturesque spots, known for its colorful cobblestone streets, well-preserved colonial architecture and warm atmosphere. Coffee fincas, or coffee farms, are an essential part of the region’s culture. Visitors to Salento often have the opportunity to visit such fincas as Las Acacias or Don Elias to learn more about the Colombian coffee production process, from harvesting the beans to tasting. The fincas offer guided tours that take visitors through the various stages of coffee cultivation, from harvesting to roasting. In the late afternoon, depart Salento and head for Manizales (approx. 2h bus ride, a stop in Pereira may be required).

Day 9: Manizales – Nevado del Ruiz + Termales del Otoño
_{Guided tour}

Nevado del Ruiz is a volcano in Colombia’s Andes mountain range. It is one of the country’s most active volcanoes. Its summit, at 5,321 m, is constantly covered in ice and snow, which contrasts with its volcanic activity. The tour starts in Manizales at 6:00 am, with a stop for breakfast. Then on to Los Nevados National Park, with several stops including Aguacerales, Arenales, Valle Lunar and Valle de las Tumbas, with explanations by the guide. After a typical lunch, off to the Otoño thermal baths before returning to Manizales.

Alternative: If Los Nevados NPN is closed due to volcanic activity, there are other alternatives to keep you busy from Manizales: Otún Quimbaya wildlife sanctuary, birdwatching, rafting on the La Vieja river.

Day 10: Manizales – City tour
_{Day to be spent on your own – no need to take a tour}

Located in the Andes mountains, Manizales is the capital of Colombia’s Caldas department. Founded in 1849, it is nicknamed the “City of Open Doors” for the hospitality of its inhabitants. The city offers a pleasant climate of eternal spring, surrounded by mountains with spectacular panoramic views. Manizales is a major economic center, with an economy based on agriculture, industry and commerce, notably coffee growing, the mainstay of its identity. Stroll through the city to admire the majestic Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Rosario, explore the picturesque streets of the historic center, visit the Caldas Art Museum or enjoy nature at the Recinto del Pensamiento Reserve (there are hummingbirds!). The Mirador de Chipre is a good spot to see the whole city and the surrounding environment.

Antioquia, Colombia’s dynamic, mountainous region, is a veritable nugget for travelers in search of diversity. Its capital, Medellín, is a city in the throes of transformation, having made a considerable leap from its dark days to become a vibrant metropolis, nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its pleasant year-round climate. The evolution of Medellín, Colombia’s second largest city, is a remarkable story of urban transformation. Once associated with violence and drug trafficking, the city has undergone an extraordinary renaissance in recent decades to become a model of successful urban development. It is also the only city in Colombia to have a metro.

Close to Medellín lies Guatapé, a picturesque village known for its famous“Piedra del Peñol“, an enormous rock formation that visitors can climb to enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the lakeside landscape. The streets of Guatapé are an explosion of color, with facades adorned with unique geometric frescoes.

Day 11 / TRANSFER / : Medellín

As usual, we advise you to get to the bus terminal in Manizales early in the morning, to catch a bus to Medellín, for a journey of 7 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions. The Empresa Arauca bus company runs between the two cities.

Day 12: Medellín – Comuna 13 & Historic Center
_{Day can be spent on your own or with a guide}

During your visit to Medellín, don’t miss exploring Comuna 13, a neighborhood once marked by violence, but today a symbol of urban regeneration, with its escalators and vibrant murals. Next, discover the charm of Medellín’s historic center, where Spanish colonial architecture coexists with a lively contemporary atmosphere, including the Plaza Botero and its oversized sculptures, but also visit the Museo de Antioquia, the Museo de la Memoria, etc. For evening entertainment, head to the El Poblado or Laureles districts.

Day 13: Medellín – Village of Guatapé
_{Day to be spent on your own – no need to take a tour}

A visit to Guatapé is an unforgettable getaway from Medellín. This charming town is famous for its colorful streets and picturesque atmosphere. The main attraction is the Piedra del Peñol, an imposing rock formation that can be climbed to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding lakeside landscape, a must for nature lovers and photographers alike. To get there, numerous buses leave from Medellín’s Terminal Norte (accessible by metro, Caribe station), taking between 1 and 1.5 hours.

Santa Marta, nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a vibrant port city popular with tourists and the ideal base for exploring Tayrona National Park. The city’s historic center retains well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, while the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta offers mountain adventures. Visitors can delight in the rich cultural scene, festivals and seafood-based culinary delights.

Tayrona National Nature Park, located on Colombia’s stunning Caribbean coast, is a natural and historical treasure trove. Once the territory of the Tayrona indigenous people, this park, created in 1964, encompasses an incredibly diverse ecosystem, home to a multitude of plant and animal species. It’s a place where history and nature come together harmoniously, offering visitors the opportunity to connect with the raw beauty of Colombia.

We strongly recommend that you stay inside the park, as the park entrance ticket is not valid for multiple entries and exits. In other words, if you decide to leave the park one day and plan to return the next, you’ll have to pay the entrance fee twice!

Please note: Tayrona closes several times a year, and exact dates vary from year to year. Remember to check when planning your trip.

Warning 2: it’s not possible to swim everywhere in the park due to dangerous currents. Be sure to follow the signs on each beach. Finally, we’d like to warn you: this may be the Caribbean, but don’t expect to see the paradise beaches of the islands (although they’re not bad!).

Day 14 / TRANSFER / : Santa Marta

It’s time to leave Medellín, and catch a flight to Santa Marta. Please note that there are 2 airports in Medellín, and the right one for this transfer is José-María-Córdova International Airport (MDE), located OUTSIDE the city. We recommend you book a flight with Avianca or Latam for this leg. The flight takes about 1 hour.

Day 15: Santa Marta (diving/snorkeling)
_{Tour with guide}

During your stay in Santa Marta, you’ll have the exceptional opportunity to scuba dive, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. This region offers a variety of dive sites suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced divers. You’ll have the chance to explore colorful coral reefs, observe a diverse marine fauna, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even sharks. If scuba diving makes you a little nervous, you can also enjoy a day of snorkeling instead.

Day 16 / TRANSFER / : Tayrona National Park – Playa Los Naranjos

To get to Tayrona Park, with the El Zaino entrance along this route, you can take regular buses from the Mercado Publico in Santa Marta. The journey takes around 1 hour (although taking a cab is an option, it can be quite expensive). Once you’ve arrived at the park entrance, simply pay the entrance fee in cash (around 60,000 COP). You can then take a shuttle bus (for an additional fee) to your accommodation. It’s important to note that only a small part of the park is accessible to vehicles; the rest of the park is accessible on foot. Afterwards, you can head for Los Naranjos beach, around 1h30 to 2 hours’ walk away. This beach is much less crowded than Cabo San Juan, as is the path to it. You’ll have the feeling of being alone in the world. What’s more, we were lucky enough to see more animals in this part of the park.

Day 17: Tayrona National Park – Cabo San Juan

This day, we head for the famous Cabo San Juan beach, one of the most photographed and popular with tourists. The hike to get there takes around 2h30 to 3 hours one way. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush jungle and coastline. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the four species of monkey found in the park, as well as exotic birds, lizards and even poisonous frogs (which you shouldn’t touch), among other wonders of the local fauna. The route is punctuated by several beaches where you can soak your feet and take well-deserved breaks. With the round trip, your day will be well spent, and you can then return to your accommodation for a rest.

Welcome to Cartagena de Indias, a Colombian city captivating both for its rich past and its exceptional beauty. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Caribbean”, Cartagena’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and picturesque squares lined with brightly-colored colonial houses. These narrow streets bear witness to the city’s turbulent history, from pirate attacks to the struggle for independence.

The impressive walls surrounding the old town are a reminder of the need to protect against constant attack. Baroque churches, such as the Cathedral of San Pedro Claver, reflect the religious influence of the Spanish colonial era.

Cartagena is also a cultural crossroads, where African, European and indigenous traditions blend harmoniously, creating a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re strolling along the city walls, relaxing on the beaches or exploring the fascinating museums, every corner of Cartagena tells a captivating story. Enjoy this immersion in Colombian culture and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this extraordinary city.

One thing to remember: Cartagena is Colombia’s most popular and therefore most expensive destination. To make the most of your stay in Cartagena, we recommend you plan your visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds.

Day 18 / TRANSFER / : Cartagena

To travel by bus from Tayrona National Park to Cartagena in Colombia, here’s an easy-to-follow guide. First, leave Tayrona Park by taking a local bus in the direction of Santa Marta, all the way to the Mamatoco traffic circle. Then board a Berlinastur bus or van at the Mamatoco traffic circle, heading for Cartagena. The journey should take around 4-5 hours, but this may vary according to road conditions. Once you arrive at the terminal in Cartagena, don’t forget to take a cab to your accommodation.

Day 19: Cartagena – Visit to the historic center and Castillo San Felipe
_{Day can be spent on your own or with a guide}

Plan a full day to explore Cartagena‘s magnificent historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the cobbled streets, lined with colorful houses with flower-filled balconies, and discover architectural treasures such as Santa Catalina Cathedral, the churches of San Pedro Claver and San Domingo, and lively squares like Plaza de Bolívar. Don’t forget to visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, an imposing fortress built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirate attacks. For museum lovers, there are two must-sees: the Palace of the Inquisition, a fascinating museum retracing the history of the Inquisition in Colombia, and the Cartagena Gold Museum, where you can admire impressive collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. And if you’ve got the time, why not explore the Bazurto market and immerse yourself in the city’s bustling daily life?

Day 20: Cartagena – Islas del Rosario (Isla Grande)
_{Day to be spent on your own – taking a tour is useless and very expensive.}

To get to Isla Grande, you’ll need to take a fast boat, called a lancha, departing from Cartagena’s Muelle de La Bodeguita. A word of advice: make sure you get to the pier before 8 a.m., as places on the boats fill up quickly for this 1.5-hour trip. A day spent in Islas del Rosario promises a truly heavenly experience. You’ll be able to take full advantage of pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Explore the coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life before returning to Cartagena in the late afternoon. It’s important to note that these islands are popular with tourists, so don’t expect to discover a deserted island all to yourself. Ideally, it would be advisable to spend at least one night there to experience more intimate, less crowded moments. However, for a two-week trip, this luxurious option may not be feasible.

Day 21: Cartagena – End of trip

Oh, it’s the last day of your adventure in Colombia, time flies! Now it’s time to head for Cartagena’ s Rafael Núñez International Airport and say goodbye to this beautiful country. We hope you enjoyed your stay in Colombia as much as we enjoyed accompanying you. If you’re lucky enough to have a few hours free, depending on your flight time, you might consider taking a final stroll around the historic district or heading to Bocagrande. To buy gifts and souvenirs, you can choose between Calle de la Gobernación, renowned for its street vendors, or Las Bóvedas. Take advantage of these last moments to bring a little piece of Colombia back home with you.

Budget (estimate)

3-week itinerary in Colombia: the great classics

Estimated total budget per person, on site (excluding airfare to/from Colombia) in Colombian pesos. For activities, prices are calculated including guides/tours when proposed in the itinerary.

Of course, traveling with 2 or more people, and staying in a private room instead of a dormitory, is more economical than a single person taking a room all to themselves, sometimes at the same price (or close to it). Every situation is different and, depending on your budget, you may have to make sacrifices (no incredible accommodation, basic meals, etc.).