Exploring Colombia: Our 45 Day - 1 1/2 month Itinerary from Border to Border!
Colombia is a land full of colour, breathtaking landscapes, and endless adventures! What only started out as a month itinerary, quickly turned into a 45-day journey through the country’s most iconic cities, each offering a unique experience from relaxation to adventure! We decided to take part in a language school too, which we did for a week in Medellin - which is taken into account in this itinerary. So, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, language enthusiast or a culture buff, this itinerary has something special for everyone!
How did we get to Colombia?
We started our journey crossing the border from Ecuador into Colombia - which was a very easy process! We got a bus from Quito to the border town of Tulcan, then a taxi to the main border. Once we had officially exited Ecuador, we crossed over the bridge and into Colombia's immigration office. I'd say the whole process took us around 30 minutes, which was a LOT quicker than we were expecting! After that, we got a taxi to Ipiales. We decided to stay one night here as we had heard about the Las Lajas Sanctuary Cathedral and decided it was worth spending a night here for. But, if that's not something you are interested in, you can get a taxi to the Ipiales bus station and then a bus from there to Cali or further afield!
Our 45 day (1 1/2 month) itinerary in Colombia
Ipiales – 1 night
Start your journey in Ipiales, a border town famous for its stunning cathedral, which to be honest was our main reason for stopping overnight here. We arrived pretty late across the border and thought it was worth staying one night for and getting an early bus the next day. If you arrive here early, I'd say you could probably skip staying here and see the cathedral before hopping on the bus to your next destination.
Top Activities
Las Lajas Sanctuary: This neo-Gothic cathedral is built into a canyon, offering a seriously impressive view!
Market Visit: Explore the local market to taste regional dishes and buy souvenirs.
Accommodation
Budget: Xantico Hostel – Affordable with basic amenities and close to attractions, plus a restaurant right upstairs. We ate there twice!
Mid-Range: Hotel San Andres – Comfortable with great service and nice rooms.
Luxury: Loft Hotel – Modern facilities with a gym and hot tub, but with an affordable price tag!
Cali – 3 Nights
Cali, often referred to as the salsa capital of Colombia, is a vibrant city known for its energetic rhythms, warm-hearted locals, and lively cultural scene. Located in the western part of the country, this dynamic metropolis is the epicentre of salsa music and dance, where the streets come alive with infectious beats and the passion for dance. The city's rich cultural heritage is evident in its bustling markets, historic neighbourhoods, and thriving arts scene. San Antonio, a bohemian district, is a hotspot for its colonial architecture, colourful murals, and lively artsy atmosphere. Caliwood, the city’s film district, offers a glimpse into Colombia’s cinematic history.
Top Activities
Salsa Dancing: Take a salsa class or visit one of the many salsa clubs, like La Topa Tolondra or take a Salsa Bar Crawl like this one!
Free Walking Tour: Take a free walking tour like this one to Cali's Cultural and Historical Downtown or this one which is all about the Salsa & Resistance Street Art
Cristo Rey Monument: Hike or drive up to see this giant statue and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
San Antonio Neighborhood: Explore this bohemian district with its colonial architecture and local art.
Accommodation
Budget: Oasis Hostel Cali – Great social vibe with very nice private rooms, a salsa-studio and a friendly atmosphere - plus free breakfast!
Mid-Range: Magic Garden – Rusric interior with a perfect view from the terrace as you dine on your breakfast.
Luxury: InterContinental Cali – Five-star experience with luxury amenities, pools, and fine dining.
Salento – 2 Nights
Nestled in the lush hills of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, Salento is a picturesque town renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and charming architecture. This small, yet enchanting town offers a serene escape into the heart of Colombia’s coffee-growing region, where rolling hills are blanketed in lush greenery and colourful colonial houses line the cobblestone streets. Salento is best known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including the iconic Valle de Cocora. This lush valley is home to the towering wax palms, the tallest palms in the world, and offers spectacular hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and immersing yourself in the tranquil landscape.
Top Activities
Cocora Valley: Hike through the valley with towering wax palms and breathtaking views, or take a horseback tour like this one!
Coffee Farm Tour: Visit a local coffee farm to learn about coffee production and taste freshly brewed coffee.
Why not do both in one day and do a private tour like this one!
Accommodation
Budget: Hostal La Casa De Lili – Cute and friendly hostel right in the heart of Salento, offering single private rooms too!
Mid-Range: Viajero Salento – A lively and social hostel offering both bunk and private rooms with mountain views.
Luxury: Hotel Terasu Salento – A high-end boutique hotel with luxury amenities and stunning views.
Medellín – 9 Nights
Medellín, the "City of Eternal Spring," is a dynamic metropolis with multiple different districts that offer a different vibe in each. We spent 10 days here as we decided to enrol into a week of Spanish School! We were also here over New Years Eve, so we stayed here to party with friends and celebrate 2024! If you were just visiting without school, I'd recommend around 3 nights here!
Top Activities
Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour: Discover Medellín’s transformation through its colourful street art.
Spanish School: We stayed at Blink Spanish School, we stayed in the double bed dorms and did 4-5 hours of Spanish a day.
Party Bus: Take one of the famous Chivas with its own DJ and drinks with an added food tasting like this one!
Arví Park: Take the cable car up to this nature reserve and enjoy hiking, cycling, and picnicking.
A night out in El Poblado - you will literally feel like you're in Europe! From high end to dive bars, there's something for everyone.
Accommodation
Budget: Viajero Hostel – One of the most popular hostels in Medellín, with a social atmosphere, own bar, hot tub and rooftop views.
Mid-Range: Hotel Dix – A modern hotel in El Poblado with comfortable rooms and great views of the city from the hot tub.
Luxury: The Charlee Hotel – A stylish, upscale hotel known for its rooftop pool and chic design.
Guatapé – 2 Nights
Nestled in the mountains just a couple of hours from Medellín, Guatapé is a vibrant, picture-perfect town famous for its brightly coloured buildings and charming cobbled streets. Known as Colombia’s most colourful town, every corner of Guatapé feels like stepping into a postcard, with houses adorned in vivid murals and intricate zócalos (decorative panels). But Guatapé is more than just eye-catching streets; it’s also home to the iconic Piedra del Peñol, a massive granite rock that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes and lush landscape. Whether you’re keen to take in the stunning scenery from the top of the rock or enjoy a boat ride on the shimmering waters of the reservoir, Guatapé offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and colourful charm.
Top Activities
Climb El Peñol: Scale the 740 steps of this massive rock for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes or do a tour from Medellin like this one.
Explore the Colourful Streets: Wander through the vibrant streets, full of brightly painted houses and zócalos (decorative panels).
Jet Ski: Hire a Jet Ski and whizz around the lake that used to house Pablo Escobar.
Accommodation
Budget: Lake View Hostel – A cozy and affordable option close to the lake.
Mid-Range: Eco Bahia Del Penon– Offers excellent views of the lake and comfortable rooms, with a hot tub!
Luxury: Bosko – Unique luxury "glamping" domes on the sides of the moutain with private decks and lake views - a literal DREAM stay!
Bogotá – 3 Nights
Sitting high in the Andes at an altitude of 2,640 metres, Bogotá is Colombia’s vibrant and ever-evolving capital city. With a mix of colonial charm, modern skyscrapers, and a thriving cultural scene, Bogotá offers a little something for everyone. The city is a hub of art, history, and gastronomy, with its museums, galleries, and cafés providing a rich cultural experience. Bogotá’s historic heart, La Candelaria, is a must-visit, where cobblestone streets are lined with colourful houses, street art, and significant landmarks like the Plaza Bolívar and Museo del Oro. For breathtaking views of the sprawling city below, a trip up Monserrate is essential, whether you hike or take the cable car to the top.
Beyond the city’s attractions, Bogotá’s lively neighbourhoods each offer their own unique charm. From the hip, artistic vibe of Chapinero to the upscale dining and nightlife of Zona T, there’s always something to explore. Whether you're in Bogotá for its rich history, buzzing nightlife, or world-class street food, this city is an essential stop on any Colombian adventure.
Top Activities
Gold Museum: Discover one of the largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
La Candelaria: Explore the city's historic district with its colonial architecture and colorful street art.
Monserrate Hill: Take the cable car or hike up to this iconic hill for panoramic views of Bogotá.
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral: Marvel at the second largest salt cathedral in the world!
Accommodation
Budget: Granada Hostel – A friendly, cosy and affordable hostel in the centre.
Mid-Range: Ibis Budget Marly– A modern hotel near La Candelaria with great views of the city.
Luxury: Grand Hyatt Bogota– A high-end luxury hotel in the business district with a gym and fitness centre.
San Gil – 2 Nights
Tucked away in the rolling hills of Santander, San Gil is the undisputed adventure capital of Colombia. If you’re a thrill-seeker or love the outdoors, this small town is the perfect destination, offering a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities in stunning natural surroundings. Whether it's white-water rafting on the Río Fonce, paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon, or canyoning down waterfalls, San Gil is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
But San Gil isn’t just about heart-pounding adventures. The town itself is charming, with its colonial architecture and relaxed vibe. You can stroll through Parque El Gallineral, known for its eerie moss-draped trees, or enjoy the bustling market filled with fresh local produce and traditional crafts.
Top Activities
Rafting on the Suarez River: Experience thrilling rapids in one of Colombia’s best whitewater rafting spots.
Paragliding: Soar over the lush landscapes surrounding San Gil.
Chicamocha Canyon: Visit this stunning canyon for hiking or take the cable car across the dramatic landscape.
Visit the nearby town of Barichara: It's often referred to as Colombia’s most beautiful village! A lovely afternoon trip with some delicious eateries!
Accommodation
Budget: Hostel Trip Monkey – A social hostel with a lovely manager who offers great information on local adventures.
Mid-Range: Hotel Campestre Camino Real – A quiet retreat with beautiful gardens.
Luxury: Glamping Monteverde – A cute glamping experience in the hills with a private spa bath!
Santa Marta – 2 Nights
Santa Marta, one of Colombia’s oldest cities, is a coastal gem that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and access to some of the country’s most stunning natural attractions. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, Santa Marta serves as the ideal gateway for exploring the beauty of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
The city itself has a rich colonial history, with landmarks like the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, where Simón Bolívar spent his final days, and a bustling historic centre filled with vibrant street art, cafés, and local life.
Top Activities
Beach hop: Relax on the beach or take a boat to one of the nearby beaches
Simon Bolivar’s House: Learn about Colombia’s revolutionary history at the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino.
Minca Day Trip: Take a short trip to this nearby town known for waterfalls, coffee farms, and hiking.
Tayrona Park Day Trip: Visit one of the most beautiful National Park's with stunning beaches and wildlife.
Accommodation
Budget: Viajero Santa Marta– A fun hostel with a rooftop bar and pool.
Mid-Range: Hotel Tayromar – A boutique hotel offering comfort and a free breakfast
Luxury: Senda Koguiwa – A luxurious boutique hotel with elegant bungalow style rooms and gorgeous views!
Taganga – 2 nights
Taganga is a small fishing village on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, just a short distance from the bustling city of Santa Marta. It’s a backpacker’s haven known for its laid-back vibe, stunning sunsets, and diving opportunities. We spent three nights here, which gave us plenty of time to enjoy the beach, explore nearby Tayrona National Park, and take in the lively atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more rustic beach town with great views and a relaxed vibe, Taganga is a must-visit.
Top Activities
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: Taganga is renowned for its affordable diving schools, making it the perfect place to get PADI certified or enjoy a fun dive. The crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life, offering a fantastic underwater experience. If you’re not into diving, the snorkelling here is also excellent.
Visit Tayrona National Park: Just a short bus or boat ride away, Tayrona National Park is one of Colombia’s most beautiful spots, with jungle-covered mountains, pristine beaches, and wildlife. Spend a day hiking the trails or simply relax on one of the park’s stunning beaches.
Sunset at Taganga Bay: Taganga’s sunsets are famous, and for good reason. Grab a drink and head to the beach or a hillside café to watch the sun dip into the ocean – the colours over the bay are breathtaking.
Boat Trip to Playa Grande: Hop on a boat and head to Playa Grande, a nearby beach that’s a bit quieter than Taganga’s main strip. It’s great for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostal Casa Horizonte– A cosy beachview hostel offering comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy access to the main beach.
Mid-Range: Casa Tara– A cute homestay with pretty rooms, owned by a lovely man and his mum who give the best tips about what to do in the town!
Luxury: Cabanas Paradiso – A stunning luxury option with panoramic views of the bay, spacious rooms, a pool, and excellent service for a more upscale stay in Taganga.
Palomino – 4 Nights
Palomino is a bohemian beach town where the jungle meets the sea, offering one of the most relaxed atmospheres on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Known for its golden beaches, lush palm trees, and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Palomino is the perfect destination for travellers seeking a laid-back escape with a touch of adventure. The town itself is small and unpretentious, with sandy streets lined with chilled-out beach bars, artisan shops, and eco-friendly hostels. While it’s the ideal place to kick back and relax, Palomino also offers plenty of activities for those who crave more than just lounging by the ocean. Tubing down the Palomino River is a must-do experience, where you’ll float through the jungle before ending at the sea. The area is also known for its surfing, with waves that attract both beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Top Activities
Tubing on the River: Float down the lazy Palomino River to the Caribbean Sea.
Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the serene and unspoiled beaches Palomino has to offer.
Indigenous Culture: Visit nearby indigenous communities to learn about the local Kogi people and do it with tubing included, here.
Accommodation
Budget: Kanta Sana Hostel – A social and vibrant hostel with a pool.
Mid-Range: Beach Life and Club Palomino– A fun and friendly beachfront resort with a beachfront bar.
Luxury: Naio Hotel and Villas – A luxurious beachfront retreat with private bungalows.
Tayrona National Park – 2 Nights
Tayrona National Park is a true natural wonder on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, where lush jungle, pristine beaches, and the towering Sierra Nevada mountains come together to create one of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Known for its crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and biodiverse forests, Tayrona is a must-visit for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. The park is home to some of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches, like Cabo San Juan, with its iconic palm-fringed shores and turquoise waters. But Tayrona is more than just a beach destination – it’s also a place where you can hike through dense jungle trails, spot wildlife like howler monkeys and exotic birds, and discover ancient indigenous ruins hidden in the forest. The mix of coastal beauty and rich biodiversity makes it a paradise for both relaxation and exploration.
For the adventurous, hiking to Pueblito, a lesser-known archaeological site, offers a glimpse into the ancient Tayrona civilisation that once inhabited the region. Whether you’re camping under the stars, trekking through the jungle, or simply soaking up the sun on one of its picture-perfect beaches, Tayrona National Park is the perfect escape into Colombia’s natural beauty.
Top Activities
Hike to Cabo San Juan: Take a scenic hike to one of the park’s most beautiful beaches.
Wildlife Watching: Spot monkeys, birds, and other wildlife as you explore the park’s trails.
Snorkeling: Discover the vibrant marine life in the park's crystal-clear waters.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostal Finca La Gordita – Budget-friendly hostel with a pool
Mid-Range: Siwi Lodge – Bungalow-style eco-lodges offering comfort in the heart of nature.
Luxury: Senda Watapuy Hotel – A luxurious hotel with private pools near the entrance of the park.
Minca – 2 Nights
Nestled in the lush foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Minca is a serene retreat that offers a refreshing escape from the bustling coastal cities of Colombia. Known for its cool climate, verdant landscapes, and vibrant eco-friendly community, Minca is a haven for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a deep connection with nature. The town’s charm lies in its unspoiled beauty and the wealth of outdoor activities it offers. From exploring picturesque waterfalls like Pozo Azul and Marinka, to trekking through the surrounding cloud forests, Minca is a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The area is also renowned for its coffee plantations, where you can take guided tours to learn about the coffee production process and sample some of the freshest brews around.
Top Activities
Hike to Los Pinos Viewpoint: Take in sweeping views of the mountains and coastline.
Marinka Waterfalls: Enjoy a refreshing swim under these scenic falls.
Coffee Tour: Visit a local coffee farm to learn about the production process and sample fresh brews.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostal Sierra Minca – A rustic hillside hostel with great views.
Mid-Range: Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge – A comfortable eco-lodge with breathtaking views.
Luxury: Trekker Glamping– A high-end glamping suite with stunning views and modern facilities.
Cartagena – 3 Nights
Cartagena, with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and Caribbean charm, stands as one of Colombia’s most captivating cities. Located on the country’s northern coast, this vibrant port city is renowned for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, lively streets, and stunning waterfront. The historic walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts cobbled alleys, colourful facades, and grand fortifications that transport visitors back in time. Beyond the walls, Cartagena’s energetic neighbourhoods offer a taste of modern Colombian life. The Getsemaní district is famed for its vibrant street art and bohemian atmosphere, while Bocagrande features a lively beachfront and upscale shopping. For a taste of local life, the bustling Bazurto Market provides a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavours.
Top Activities
Explore the Walled City: Wander the colourful, cobblestone streets of the historic center.
Mud Spa Volcano: Climb inside one of the world's smallest volcanos and enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm mud.
Castillo San Felipe: Visit this impressive fortress with panoramic views of the city.
Rosario Islands: Take a day trip to these idyllic islands for snorkeling and relaxation.
Accommodation
Budget: Casa Movida Hostel– A fun hostel with a pool in the heart of the city.
Mid-Range: Don Pedro De Heredia – A beautiful boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace.
Luxury: Sofitel Legend Santa Clara – A luxurious five-star hotel set in a former convent.
Rosario Islands - 2 Nights
The Rosario Islands, an exquisite archipelago located just off the coast of Cartagena, are a tropical paradise renowned for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches. This idyllic cluster of islands is part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park, which protects a stunning marine ecosystem and offers a perfect getaway from the bustling city life.
Accommodation
Budget: Las Flores Econativo - A basic eco hostel with lovely owners near the beach.
Mid-Range: Rosario EcoHotel - Offers stunning sea views and comfortable rooms.
Necoclí – 2 Nights
Necoclí, a laid-back coastal town on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is the perfect spot to slow down and soak in some relaxed beach vibes. We spent five days here, taking a break from the more hectic pace of city life and immersing ourselves in the chilled-out atmosphere. If you're looking for a beach destination that's off the beaten track, Necoclí is the place to be. It’s still relatively untouched by mass tourism, which gives it that authentic charm.
Top Activities
Relax on the Beach: Necoclí’s long stretches of sand are perfect for unwinding. The beach isn’t crowded, so you’ll feel like you’ve got your own slice of paradise.
Boat Trip to San Bernardo Islands: Take a boat tour to explore the stunning San Bernardo Islands, known for their clear waters, coral reefs, and picture-perfect beaches. A great spot for snorkelling or just lounging on the sand.
Local Cuisine: You have to try the fresh seafood here! There are plenty of local eateries serving up delicious fish dishes and ceviche – the spicier, the better, for me!
Sunset at Playa El Pescador: The sunsets in Necoclí are breathtaking, and Playa El Pescador is one of the best places to watch the sun dip into the sea. Grab a coconut drink and enjoy the view.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostal La Mariapolis - A cozy hostel near the beach.
Mid-Range: Alpha Hotel Boutique - Offers stunning sea views and comfortable rooms.
Sapzurro – 2 Nights
Sapzurro is a hidden gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, nestled right by the Panama border. This tiny, peaceful village is surrounded by lush jungle and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking to get off the beaten path. We spent two nights here, which was the perfect amount of time to explore the area and relax by the water. If you're seeking tranquillity, Sapzurro delivers in spades.
Top Activities
Hike to La Miel Beach (Panama): A must-do while in Sapzurro! The scenic hike from Sapzurro to La Miel takes about 45 minutes and crosses the Colombia-Panama border. La Miel Beach is pristine, and you can enjoy a refreshing swim while technically being in Panama.
Snorkelling and Swimming: Sapzurro’s clear waters are perfect for snorkelling. The reefs just offshore are home to colourful fish and marine life, making for a fantastic underwater experience.
Boat Trip to Playa Blanca: Hop on a boat to Playa Blanca, a secluded beach with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a peaceful escape, ideal for soaking up the sun in a picture-perfect setting.
Jungle Walks: The area around Sapzurro is lush with tropical jungle, so if you’re into hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore. Be on the lookout for exotic birds and wildlife along the way.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostal Hilltop Sapzurro – A cozy hostel near the beach.
Mid-Range: Cafe Del Mar – Offers stunning sea views and comfortable rooms.
This 45-day itinerary through Colombia is packed with adventure, culture, and relaxation. From exploring vibrant cities like Bogotá and Medellín to discovering the untouched beauty of places like Tayrona National Park and Palomino, Colombia has something for every type of traveler. Whether you're on a budget or looking for luxury, these destinations offer a wide range of activities and accommodations to suit your needs. Happy travels!
