Ultimate 2 Week Colombia Itinerary: From Bogota to Cartagena

Hey there! This page may include affiliate links. If you click one and make a purchase, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

I’ve visited Colombia eight times and keep returning because there’s just so much to appreciate. From Bogotá’s energy to the quiet beauty of the Coffee Region and the laid-back rhythm of the Caribbean coast, every part of Colombia offers something different.

While you won’t be able to see it all in just two weeks, this two week Colombia itinerary is a well-rounded introduction. It takes you through the capital city, into the heart of the Coffee Region, across Antioquia, and up to the coast, giving you a feel for Colombia’s varied landscapes, culture, and communities.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning, this Colombia travel itinerary will help you decide where to spend your time and how to make the most of it.

Overview: What to Expect in Two Weeks in Colombia

This Colombia itinerary covers five key regions over two weeks with a pace that’s active but not rushed. You’ll start in the capital city, spend time in the lush Coffee Region, enjoy Medellín’s creative energy, head to the Caribbean for a mix of jungle and beach, and wrap up in Cartagena’s walled city.

Quick snapshot of the route

• Days 1–2: Bogotá
• Days 3–5: Salento and the Coffee Region
• Days 6–8: Medellín
• Days 9–11: Santa Marta (Tayrona + Minca)
• Days 12–14: Cartagena (+ optional islands)
  

Best time of year to visit Colombia

The best time to follow this route is during the dry seasons: December to March and July to August. You can absolutely travel outside those windows, but you’ll have better weather for things like hiking in Tayrona or enjoying a beach day without the rain. 

That said, I’ve visited in June and July and still had a great time. Expect a few showers for part of the day, especially in the highlands or jungle areas, but nothing that will ruin the trip. On the Caribbean coast, I still had plenty of sunny beach days during that time of year. Just pack a light rain jacket and roll with it.

Colombia’s weather can vary by region and elevation, so you’ll likely experience a mix no matter when you go.

2 Week Colombia Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Start in Bogotá

A lot of travelers treat Bogotá like a quick layover stop — in and out before heading to the coast or the coffee farms. But if you give the capital a little more time, you’ll find it has a lot to offer.

Don’t expect tropical weather here. Bogotá sits at higher elevation, so the climate is cooler and often cloudy. Pack a sweater or jacket and plan on wearing jeans. This part of your trip won’t feel like summer. The chillier weather makes it great for walking around, eating well, and warming up with a hot chocolate with cheese. It sounds odd I know, but try it, it’s actually very delicious! 

Start with a walking tour

A walking tour is one of the best ways to ease into the city, especially if it’s your first time in Bogota. I really enjoyed both a graffiti tour and a food tour on my last visit. You’ll get your bearings, hear stories that put the city’s past and present in context, and probably find a few spots you’ll want to return to later.

Don’t miss these highlights

Montserrate: Take the funicular or cable car up the mountain for panoramic views of the city. It’s especially nice in the late afternoon when the light starts to change.

Museo del Oro (Gold Museum): Even if you’re not a museum person, this one’s worth it, especially on a rainy afternoon. You’ll see pre-Colombian artifacts and learn more about Colombia’s rich history. All of the gold and emeralds in the museum are also very beautiful to see. 

La Candelaria: Bogotá’s historic center is colorful, walkable, and full of history. There is a ton of great street art, restaurants, and shops. It does get very quiet in the evenings, so if you enjoy nightlife I’d recommend visiting during the day, but staying elsewhere in the city.  

Where to stay in Bogota: 

While La Candelaria is close to the city’s main attractions, I personally prefer staying in Chapinero. It is busier in the evening, has a great restaurant scene, and some of the best nightlife in the city.

One of the highlights of my time there was a cocktail tour through Chapinero. It was such a fun way to check out creative, small-batch bars. If you’re a solo traveler, joining a cocktail tour or pub crawl can be a fun and safe way to experience nightlife and make some new travel friends.

Accommodation Recommendations in Bogotá

Budget:

Viajero Bogotá – Viajero is the top rated hostel chain in Colombia. I’ve stayed at many of their locations and they are all great. This one in Bogotá is particularly special in that it has an on site spa with hydrotherapy, saunas, and massage. Where else can you get a luxe spa experience in a hostel?

Mid-range:

Lucitania Hotel Boutique: Beautiful, small boutique hotel located near an area of Chapineiro with lots of shopping and great restaurants. It has a vey intimate vibe with beautiful green spaces.

Luxe:

GHL Bioxury Hotel: The architecture of the building is very beautiful and unique. Relax in the lush gardens and make use of wellness packages. The hotel is also located in the heart of the Chapiniero neighborhood near lots of shopping and restaurants.

Day 3-5: Salento & the Coffee Region

Now it’s time to get out of the city and experience the countryside of Colombia. Salento is one of the most charming towns in Colombia. It’s the perfect base to spend a few days in the coffee region. You’ll find great hiking, amazing coffee, and some of the country’s most iconic views like the giant wax palm forest. 

How to get to Salento

Getting to Salento takes a bit of effort, but it’s well worth it.

• By flight: The easiest way is to fly into either Pereira (PEI) or Armenia (AXM). From either airport, it’s about a 1.5-hour taxi or bus ride to Salento. This option saves you time and is ideal if you’re coming from Bogotá.
  
• By bus: You can take a direct bus from Bogotá, but it’s a long ride, usually 8–10 hours. If you’re on a tight budget or want to see the countryside, this is an option, but be ready for a full day of travel.

Hiking the Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is the main draw here and for good reason. Towering wax palm trees , which are Colombia’s national tree, line the green hills. It’s one of the most surreal landscapes in the country.

The full loop hike is about 12 km and takes 4–5 hours. It’s moderately challenging with a few muddy sections and hanging bridges. When I visited, I hiked this on my own. There are many hikers on the trail. If you’re staying at a nearby hostel, you’ll be likely to meet others to join for the hike as well. 

I recommend hiking counterclockwise. You’ll pass through jungle, cross rivers, and visit the Acaime hummingbird sanctuary before ending with the most stunning stretch of wax palms. This route saves the best views for last.

If you’re short on time, there are shorter hikes or you can hire a jeep to take you straight to the palm forest area and back.

Bring water, layers, and shoes you don’t mind getting muddy, especially if it’s rained recently.

Visit a coffee farm

Salento is also one of the best places in Colombia to learn about how coffee is grown and processed. You’ll find small farms offering tours that walk you through the entire process from picking beans to tasting a fresh cup.

Here’s the coffee farm tour I did when I was there. It was so interesting to learn how my daily coffee is grown, harvested, roasted, and prepared for export. Now, every morning I remember seeing where my coffee may have begun its journey and the process it took to become that delicious beverage. 

Tours are typically run by the farmers themselves and give you a real sense of how much work goes into a single cup.

Try Your Hand at Tejo

One of my favorite unexpected moments in Salento was stumbling upon a Tejo court. I first heard about the game thanks to Anthony Bourdain’s Colombia episode of No Reservations. When I happened to see a Tejo court when walking around town, I got so excited and wrangled together a group of other travelers at my hostel to go play. 

Tejo is a Colombian sport and it’s unlike anything else. You throw a heavy metal disc toward a clay board where small triangles filled with gunpowder are placed around a central target. The goal? Hit one of the triangles and make it explode. It’s way harder than it looks, but also really fun.

If you want to give it a try, head to Los Amigos, a casual bar in town with Tejo courts in the back. Grab a beer, get the basics from the staff or fellow players, and enjoy one of Colombia’s most unique local traditions.

Where to stay in Salento

Whether you want to be right in town or surrounded by nature, Salento has great options for every budget:

Budget: 

Viajero Salento:  A social hostel with great views and a fun vibe

Mid-range:

La Posada de la Plaza: Comfortable and super central if you want to stay in town

Ecohotel Piedemonte: Peaceful and just outside the town center, with mountain views

Luxe:

Kawa Mountain Retreat:  Beautiful design and quiet surroundings

Glamping Lumbre: Unique glamping experience near the Cocora Valley entrance

Day 6-8: Medellín

Medellín has a complicated history, but the city today feels full of movement, literally and figuratively. It’s a place where creativity and community show up in everyday life, from the public art to the way people move through the city.

I spent a month in Medellín and loved it. I made friends, experienced the nightlife, and was constantly impressed by how active and connected the city felt. One of the highlights for me was Ciclovía. Every Sunday, certain streets close to cars so people can walk, run, skate, or bike together. It’s one of the things that makes Medellín feel so alive.

I also appreciated how the city integrates green spaces and has built an innovative public transit system that makes it easy to get around without a car, including cable cars that connect neighborhoods in the hills to the metro below.

How to get from Salento to Medellín

There are two main ways to travel from Salento to Medellín, by bus or by flight, and which one you choose depends on your time and budget.

• By bus: This is the more affordable option and a good choice for budget travelers. You can book tickets online in advance with Flota Occidental, which runs a direct bus from Salento to Medellín. The bus typically departs around 8 a.m. and the trip takes about 7 hours, though delays can happen, especially on weekends or holidays. When I did this route, it was a holiday weekend and traffic added a couple of extra hours, so the journey ended up taking closer to 9 hours. There’s a rest stop about halfway through where you can grab food and stretch your legs. Overall, it’s a long day, but doable and scenic.
  
• By flight: If you’d rather skip the long ride, you can take a short domestic flight from either Armenia (AXM) or Pereira (PEI) to Medellín (MDE). The flight itself is under an hour, and it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Salento to either airport. This option is faster but usually more expensive and requires a bit more coordination.
  

If you’re tight on time, flying might be worth it, but if you’re watching your budget and don’t mind a full travel day, the bus is a solid option.

What to do in Medellín

Medellín is a city that surprises a lot of travelers. It has seen a troubled past, but today it’s a city full of art, innovation, and community energy. There’s so much to do, whether you’re into culture, food, nature, or nightlife.

Visit Comuna 13 with a guide

One of the most meaningful things you can do in Medellín is spend time in Comuna 13, a neighborhood that’s undergone major transformation over the past two decades. It’s known for its vibrant street art, public escalators, and strong sense of community.

I highly recommend visiting with a guided tour to get the full context. I booked this experience, and our guide was an architect from Medellín who shared insights about how public transportation, like the escalators and cable cars, helped connect outlying communities to the city center. These innovations played a huge role in reducing isolation and opening up access to jobs, education, and economic opportunities.

The tour made it clear that Comuna 13 isn’t just a place to take photos. It’s a living story of resilience and creativity.

Take a day trip to Guatapé

Guatapé is an easy and scenic day trip from Medellín. To go for the day, the easiest way is to join a tour. The colorful lakeside town is known for its bright murals and cobbled streets, and it’s also home to El Peñol, a massive rock formation with over 700 steps to the top. The climb is worth it for the panoramic view over the lakes and surrounding hills.

If you’ve got more than two weeks in Colombia, I’d recommend spending a night in Guatapé.  It’s a great place to slow down and just relax by the water.

Join a food tour, cooking class, or dance lesson

Medellín is the perfect city to connect with Colombian culture through food and music. Consider booking a food tour or cooking class to try local dishes like bandeja paisa or arepas from places you might not find on your own.

When I lived here for a month, I took salsa dance lessons. You can book a class with my teacher Bryant here. It was one of the best decisions I made. Not only was it a fun way to move, but I made friends with my teacher and his circle, which made the whole experience that much more special to be welcomed into the city and see it through friends. 

Enjoy the nightlife even if you’re solo

Medellín has an exciting nightlife scene with something going on every night of the week. Paisas know how to party. If you’re traveling solo, joining a pub crawl is a great way to have a night out without being alone. You’ll meet other travelers and end the night with new friends.  Some popular areas to go out are Laureles and El Poblado.

Where to stay in Medellín

Medellín is a big city with many different neighborhoods. For most travelers, Poblado and Laureles are the best choices when it comes to things to do, convenience, and safety. 

El Poblado

This is the most popular area for travelers, and it’s easy to see why. El Poblado is an upscale neighborhood with tons of nightlife, trendy cafés, shopping, and restaurants. If you want to be in the middle of the action, this is the place.

That said, it’s also the most touristy part of Medellín so it can feel more crowded. 

Laureles

I stayed in Laureles and absolutely loved it. It’s more residential and walkable than El Poblado. It still has a great restaurant scene, bars, local shops, and places to hang out. It felt like a more relaxed part of the city. 

If you’re into sports, Laureles is also right by the stadium, which makes it easy to catch a fútbol match. 

Centro / Downtown

I wouldn’t recommend staying in Centro, even though it’s technically the most central part of the city. It’s very busy during the day with office workers and vendors, but gets very quiet after business hours. At night, it is not an area you should walk around alone.  It’s worth visiting during the day, especially for museums and public plazas, but not ideal as a home base.

Accommodation Recommendations in Medellín

Budget:

CoNomad House – For digital nomads, this spot is perfect with a co-living and co-working set up. It’s also located in Laureles-Estadio so is perfect if you want to catch a game or just enjoy the vibes of the Laureles neighborhood.

Hostel Rango Boutique – Located in Poblado, it’s the perfect spot if you want to be in the center of the action. With a rooftop pool, it’s the perfect spot to chill out on a sunny afternoon. The hostel also hosts different parties and events throughout the week.

Mid-range:

Beminimal Hotel – Located in Laureles this apart-hotel offers studio rooms and apartments. Many have a scenic balcony so you can take in the views of the city right from your room.

Moabi Hotel – Located in Poblado this hotel has truly unique architecture and beautiful design. Enjoy a relaxing spa experience during your stay.

Luxe:

Primavera Luxury Apartments Medellín – If you’re looking to splurge, this apartments are beautifully designed. Each one is unique and is the perfect luxe stay especially for a group of friends.

Day 9-11: Santa Marta, Tayrona & Minca

From Medellín, you’ll head north to the Caribbean coast where the jungle meets the sea. These next few days give you a completely different side of Colombia, with a focus on nature, wildlife, and quiet views.

Flight from Medellín to Santa Marta

The easiest way to get to Santa Marta is by direct flight from Medellín, usually about 1.5 hours. To make the most of your time, I recommend flying early in the morning or in the evening. That way, you won’t lose a full day in transit and can hit the ground running once you land.

How to divide your time: Tayrona & Minca

With just three days in this region, it’s smart to keep things simple and not try to do too much. Here’s what I’d suggest:

Day trip to Tayrona National Park

Instead of doing a full overnight trek into Tayrona, consider a day trip by boat from Santa Marta. One of the best ways to see the park without the logistical headache is to book a sailing tour from Santa Marta. You’ll get time to relax, swim, and enjoy the coastline all without needing to hike in and out or deal with park permits.

Here’s the Tayrona sailing tour I recommend:  it’s a great way to experience the beauty of the area, especially if you’re short on time.

If you do have more time to spend in Santa Marta, I do recommend camping in Tayrona National Park for a night or two. Camping in tents or hammocks is first come, first served, so you’ll want to get an early start to hike to the camping area from the park entrance. 

Spend a couple of days in Minca

After a day on the water, head up to Minca, a small town in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s cooler than the coast and surrounded by dense forest, waterfalls, and birdlife. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and perfect for unwinding in nature.

Things to do in Minca:

• Hike to local waterfalls like Pozo Azul or Marinka
• Try rappelling if you’re feeling adventurous
• Join a sunrise birdwatching walk (this area is a birder’s paradise)
• Grab a drink at a mountaintop café and watch the sunset over the jungle

Even if you’re not usually into wildlife or hiking, Minca has a way of making you want to slow down and look around.

Optional if you have more time: Lost City Trek or Palomino

If you’ve got more than two weeks, you could also:

• Take on the Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida) — a multi-day hike through indigenous lands to ancient ruins
• Head up the coast to Palomino, a laid-back beach town with a backpacker vibe and river tubing

Where to stay in Santa Marta

Budget: Mr. Baboon – This hostel is a treat for solo travelers with dorm bunks having full size mattresses. They host weekly activities and have an on-site pool. Located in the Centro Historico, it’s a great location to experience the historic downtown.

Mid-range: Casa Bugambilia – Also located in the Centro Historico, this relaxing boutique hotel features a stunning rooftop terrace with a pool. Rooms also include a kitchenette.

Luxe: Casa de Leda – This beautiful boutique hotel features beautifully styled rooms, an onsite spa, terrace with a bar and tranquil pool area. Located in the heart of the Centro Historico, it’s the perfect location to get to know Santa Marta.

Where to stay in Minca

Budget: Masaya Casas Viejas – Located on the outskirts of Minca, this hostel is located on a coffee farm, finca La Victoria. You’ll have stunning views and a relaxing infinity pool.

Mid-range: Bajo El Cielo – Located just outside Minca, you can step outside your treehouse cottage right onto a net hammock to enjoy the views. Breakfast is included and there is a hot tub and bar onsite.

Luxe: Trekker Glamping – A boutique ecolodge with glamping domes immersed in the forest with views of the Sierra Nevada mountains allows you to immerse yourself in nature while still having access to modern amenities. There is onsite luxury dining dining, an infinity pool and hot tubs, sun terrace, and lush gardens.

Day 12-14: Cartagena & Nearby Islands

You’ve made it to the end of your 2 week trip in Colombia, and what better city to wrap things up than Cartagena. There are so many things to do in Cartagena. The city has a perfect mix of history, culture, and island escapes. These last few days of your trip give you a chance to soak up bright colors, old city streets, and some turquoise Caribbean water.

I’ve already detailed a full 3‑day Cartagena itinerary if you want more specific daily ideas, but here’s a breakdown of how to spend your final 3 days in Cartagena.

What to do in Cartagena’s Old Town

Cartagena’s walled city is a historic UNESCO world heritage site, and it’s easy to spend hours wandering its streets. Start with a walking tour to understand the city’s layered past and present.  It’s a great way to learn more about the city and get your bearings and some great recommendations from someone who knows the city well. 

Once you’ve walked the city, get into the flavors. Consider joining a cooking class or food tour. You’ll learn to make things like arepas or coconut rice, or sample dishes and drinks you’d probably miss on your own.

In the evening, Cartagena comes alive in a whole new way. If you’re up for dancing, try a salsa or champeta dance lesson to warm up before heading out for the night. You can also join a pub crawl to meet other travelers or hop on a chiva party bus.

Whether you’re into history, food, or nightlife, there are so many things to do in Cartagena, and the old town is the perfect base to enjoy it all.

Take an Island Day Trip

Cartagena doesn’t have the best beaches right in town. If you’re looking for clear, turquoise water, what you’re really after is the water just offshore. A popular choice is to take a boat out to the Rosario Islands, where you’ll find clear blue water, white sand, and great swimming or snorkeling.

There are many options to take you out to the islands for the day:

• Group boat tours that hit several spots in a day
  
• Private charters if you want flexibility and space
  
• Catamaran sailing trips for a more relaxed vibe

Casa en el Agua or San Bernardo Islands

If you have more time or want a quieter island stay, consider heading out to the San Bernardo Islands, a chain of small Caribbean islands accessible by boat from Cartagena. They’re a bit more remote and peaceful than the Rosario Islands, with crystal‑clear water and less crowded beaches, ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.

One unique choice here is Casa en el Agua, a boutique accommodation literally on the water. Staying here turns your beach time into a memorable experience all its own. It’s a great add‑on if you’ve got extra days.

Where to stay in Cartagena

Best neighborhoods

• Walled City: Stay inside the old town if you want history, character, and walking access to most attractions. It’s charming, atmospheric, and utterly walkable. 
• Getsemaní: Just outside the walls, this neighborhood has art‑filled streets, lively plazas, and a creative, local vibe. It’s a top pick if you want character plus easy access to the old town.

Accommodation recommendations in Cartagena

Budget: Kim Cartagena (formerly known as Selina) is a solid choice if you’re balancing travel and remote work. It’s got a dedicated coworking space, two rooftop pools, an on-site bar, and a coffee shop. It’s located right in the center of Getsemaní so you’re close to everything.

Mid-range: Hotel Boutique La Artillería sits on a quiet street in Getsemaní, giving you easy access to the neighborhood’s energy without the late-night noise. The rooms are simple but stylish, and the rooftop pool is a relaxing place to unwind after a day out in the heat.

Luxury: Movich Hotel Cartagena de Indias is where you stay when comfort’s the priority. It’s in the heart of the Walled City and blends sleek modern design with one of the best rooftop views in town. The pool and bar overlook Cartagena’s skyline so it’s perfect for sunset views.

3 Week Colombia Itinerary: What to Add if You Have More Time

If you’ve got a full three weeks in Colombia, you’re in for an even richer experience. With an extra week, you can slow your pace or add in regions that offer a different vibe and culture than what you’ll see on the 2-week route.

Here are three great additions to round out your time and give you a deeper look at Colombia’s diversity:

Cali: For salsa lovers and a different urban vibe

If you love dance, music, or nightlife, Cali is worth the detour. Known as the salsa capital of the world, this city offers a completely different feel from Bogotá or Medellín. It’s a warmer climate and has a strong Afro-Colombian cultural influence.

You can take dance classes, visit open-air salsa clubs, and catch live performances most nights. The street food scene is also underrated: try chontaduro with honey and lulada (a tart local drink).

San Andrés and Providencia: Caribbean islands with a different cultural feel

If you’re craving a more remote island experience, head to San Andrés and Providencia. These islands are technically part of Colombia, but they’re closer to Nicaragua and feel like a world apart from Cartagena.

San Andrés is the larger and more developed of the two islands, while Providencia is quieter, with clear water, colorful coral reefs, and a slower pace of life. 

Villa de Leyva: A quiet mountain town for a slower pace

Just a few hours from Bogotá, Villa de Leyva is a small Andean town known for its whitewashed buildings, stone streets, and wide open plaza. It’s a great place to slow down, with cool weather, scenic views, and a relaxed vibe.

You can spend a day or two wandering through small galleries, visiting nearby fossil sites, or hiking in the surrounding hills. It’s also near El Infiernito, an ancient Muisca ceremonial site. 

How to fit these into your route

• Villa de Leyva works best as a 1–2 night trip from Bogotá, either before or after your visit to Salento.
• Cali is easy to add between Salento and Medellín by bus or flight.
• San Andrés and Providencia are best saved for the end of your trip. You can fly from Cartagena or Medellín and spend 3–5 days relaxing before heading home.
  

FAQ: Planning Your Colombia 2 Week Itinerary

Is Colombia safe to travel?

I’ve visited Colombia eight times and have never had any safety issues. That said, like anywhere, it’s important to use common sense. One local phrase sums it up well: “No dar papaya”, which basically means don’t make yourself an easy target.

In cities, avoid walking around with your phone out, especially on the street. The most common theft is a phone being swiped by someone on a motorbike. Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night and use rideshare apps like Uber or Didi to get around. If residents suggest avoiding a certain area, take their advice seriously. These simple precautions go a long way.

Should I book buses or flights in advance?

If you’re traveling during a holiday or festival, definitely book both flights and buses in advance. Flights tend to be cheapest when booked early, so it’s smart to lock those in when you can.

For buses, outside of holidays, you can usually buy tickets at the station without any issue and most bus lines also have tickets available for purchase online. 

How much Spanish do I need?

Colombians are warm and helpful, but Spanish is the national language, and English is not widely spoken outside of tourist-heavy spots. Hotels and tour operators often have English-speaking staff, but many day-to-day interactions will likely be in Spanish.

It’s always helpful to know the basics. Google Translate is a great backup, and if you want to feel more confident, I recommend practicing ahead of your trip. I use Preply to work with language tutors from the countries I’m visiting before a trip. You can get 70% off your first lesson with my referral link.

Final Thoughts on This 2 Week Colombia Itinerary

This 2 week Colombia itinerary gives you a balanced introduction to the country, from the altitude and energy of Bogotá, to the lush Coffee Region, the creative momentum of Medellín, and the natural beauty of the Caribbean coast.

In two weeks, you’ll experience a range of landscapes, climates, and cultures. But this itinerary is just a starting point. Once you get a feel for Colombia, you’ll probably find yourself wanting to return and spend more time in the mountains, dive deeper into the coast, or connect with smaller communities beyond the major cities.