Ultimate Colombia tour: from Andean peaks to Caribbean shores

Bogota

Day 1: Welcome to Bogota!

Arrive in Bogota, where upon landing at the airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Give yourself time to acclimatize to the altitude, either resting on-site or heading out for a leisurely afternoon of light exploring.

Bogota

Day 2: Take a tour of Bogota

An epic walking tour of Bogota awaits today! You will see sights such as the historic center with its colorful colonial buildings, and the Plaza de Bolivar which features some of Bogota's architectural highlights: the city hall, houses of congress, supreme court, and venerable Catedral Primada de Colombia.

Next, take a cable car or funicular to the top of Monserrate Hill for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. History lovers might then want to visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), one of the world’s largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.

Ask your local expert for recommendations for a dinner at a local restaurant, for a chance to enjoy Bogota’s gastronomic scene - an intriguing blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences.

Bogota - Zipaquira - Villa de Leyva

Day 3: A salt cathedral & colonial towns

Depart Bogota early for a visit to the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, a stunning underground complex carved out of a salt mine. Next, you'll spend awhile exploring the colonial heritage of Zipaquira itself, wandering through its charming cobblestone streets and main square.

Continue to Villa de Leyva, a picturesque colonial town known for its large main square and whitewashed architectural style. Check into your hotel there, and kick back to enjoy a relaxing evening. From wineries to must-try restaurants, the town is a wonderful place to settle down for the day.

Villa de Leyva - Barichara

Day 4: Explore towns brimming with history

After breakfast, take a tour of the best sites and attractions in and around Villa de Leyva. You'll visit the Monasterio del Santo Ecce-Homo, part of Colombia’s architectural heritage: founded in 1620 and set on a hillside, this beautiful monastery consists of a cloister, church, cemetery, and plaza - with stunning views.

Next, take a scenic drive to Barichara, considered one of Colombia’s most beautiful towns. Optionally, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s cozy restaurants, savoring local flavors like arepas or sancocho, before relaxing at your accommodation for an overnight stay.

Barichara

Day 5: Hiking the Camino Real to Guane

This morning, you'll set out to hike the Camino Real, an ancient trail that connects Barichara with the nearby town of Guane.

In the afternoon, explore Guane's artisan workshops where you'll find handmade crafts to take home with you, especially paper, woodwork and pottery. Alternatively, you could opt to enjoy a slow afternoon, simply relaxing in the serene town square, sipping coffee at a local cafe, and people-watching the time away. You'll return to Barichara later, to rest back at your accommodation.

Barichara - Medellin

Day 6: Dive into the wonders of Medellin

This morning, leave Barichara behind as you head to the airport for a domestic flight to Medellin, with a layover in Bogota. Upon arrival in the city, head to your accommodation for check-in, then venture out for lunch at the Mercado del Rio. Enjoy a variety of local and international foods in this modern food market, where the bustling and buzzing atmosphere will fill your lunch break with intrigue.

Once you've eaten and are feeling satiated, it's time to embark on a guided walking tour of Medellin. You will visit some of the city's most notable sights, such as the Palacio Nacional, before having the evening free to relax and unwind at your own pace.

Medellin - Guatape - Medellin

Day 7: A day trip to Guatape

Early this morning, say goodbye to Medellin for the day and embark on a day trip to Guatape! This colorful town is famous for its vibrant murals and stunning surroundings, and is a real must-visit while you're in the area.

Climb El Peñol, ascending the rock's 740 steps for breathtaking views of lakes and mountains. Then, take a relaxing boat ride along the Guatape Reservoir, a sizable water feature with views of lush hills and islands.

Stop for lunch, tucking into a typical paisa meal in one of the local lakeside restaurants, before relaxing for the rest of the afternoon. Return to Medellin in the evening for an overnight stay.

Medellin - Salento

Day 8: Journey to scenic Salento

Today you'll check out of your hotel in Medellin and transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Salento, a charming town in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle. Alternatively, you could opt for a scenic drive to Salento instead, which takes around six to seven hours - the rolling landscapes and peaceful atmosphere make the longer trip worthwhile!

Wander through Salento’s colorful streets and gaze at its colonial-era architecture. Afterward, explore the Calle Real with its artisan shops stacked with handmade goods, such as coffee, jewelry, and textiles. Optionally, dine at a restaurant recommended by your local expert, for a chance to sample delicious regional specialties like trucha (trout).

Salento - Cocora Valley - Salento

Day 9: The beauty of the Cocora Valley

From Salento, it's time for a day trip to the Cocora Valley, famous for its towering wax palm trees (the tallest in the world). Hike the trails through the valley, passing lush forests, rivers, and stunning landscapes as you go. Afterward, you'll have a chance to visit a local coffee farm for a tour to learn about coffee cultivation and enjoy tastings. Once you've had your fill of the valley's stunning landscapes, make your return to Salento for an evening in town.

Salento - Santa Marta

Day 10: Welcome to Santa Marta!

Today, you'll travel from Salento to Pereira Airport for your flight to Santa Marta. Upon your arrival in this vibrant coastal city, take time to find your bearings as you explore the charming historic center, including the Plaza Parque de los Novios. Visit the Tairona Gold Museum to learn about the indigenous cultures of the region, or simply kick back to enjoy the sandy beach.

Santa Marta - Tayrona National Park

Day 11: The natural charms of Tayrona

Today, wake up early to travel to Tayrona National Park, one of Colombia’s most famous national parks, where lush jungle meets white sandy beaches. There, embark on a picturesque hike to explore the wonders of Tayrona.

During the hike, you'll learn about the local environment, the indigenous people who call the park home, and the diverse flora and fauna that make up the park's rich biodiversity. Take time to unwind with a swim and snooze at Playa Cabo San Juan, a tranquil beach backed by the jungle and lapped by turquoise waters.

Please note that Tayrona National Park can get very busy during the peak travel season. Your local expert will be able to offer alternative experiences to avoid the tourist crowds.

Tayrona National Park

Day 12: Explore indigenous history in Tayrona

Today you’ll visit Tayronaka, a lost city of the Tayrona indigenous people featuring a series of terraces. With help from your tour guide, you will retrace the history of this ancient civilization, for a morning filled with wonder. Alternatively, you could visit the lost city of Bunkuany, to witness even more impressive indigenous terraces and avoid the crowds at Tayronaka.

Afterward, board a lancha (a small motorboat) for a trip down the Don Diego River towards the Caribbean Sea. On the way, you will have the chance to spot many monkeys and colorful birds in their natural habitat.

Optionally, spend part of today visiting the indigenous community of Kantanzama, for an immersive and unforgettable cultural experience.

Tayrona National Park - Cartagena

Day 13: Journey to captivating Cartagena

In the morning, leave Tayrona behind with a transfer to Cartagena, approximately five hours away. Get to know this majestic city on your own, walking along the old city walls, enjoying views of the Caribbean Sea, and exploring Getsemani - a vibrant neighborhood known for its street art, cafe culture, and lively atmosphere.

Optionally, enjoy dinner in one of Cartagena’s excellent seafood restaurants, savoring fresh fish and ceviche to round off a fabulous day of exploring.

Cartagena

Day 14: A second day in Cartagena

After breakfast, you'll join a walking tour of the historic old town of Cartagena. As you wander through the Caribbean streets, you'll feel as if you've gone back to the 16th century! As part of the tour, visit famous colonial buildings like the monastery of San Pedro Claver and the Cartagena Cathedral.

After your walking tour, you’ll have some time to relax before you visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a massive fortress overlooking the city. Finally, in the evening, spend a while soaking up Cartagena’s nightlife before retreating to your accommodation.

Cartagena - Rosario Islands - Cartagena

Day 15: The Rosario Islands & rum tasting

Today, you’ll enjoy a boat tour to the scenic Rosario Islands, located about an hour away. Explore these pristine islands off Cartagena’s coast, with options for snorkeling or simply relaxing on the beach.

Back in Cartagena, if time allows, head out for an evening rum tasting in the Getsemani district - or spend the rest of the day unwinding however you please. This is your last night in Cartagena and Colombia, so make the most of it!

Cartagena

Day 16: Goodbye, Colombia

Enjoy a relaxing morning in Cartagena, perhaps doing some last-minute shopping in Las Bovedas or Getsemani. At a suitable time, transfer to the international airport for your departure flight home. Have a safe trip and visit again soon!