Colombia in 2 weeks

2-Week Colombia Itinerary: Best Cities, Nature & Beaches in Just 14 Days

Colombia packs more diversity into one country than most entire continents. From vibrant colorful cities like Cartagena to the lush coffee hills in Salento, and seeing the capital city Bogotá from above — this 2-week itinerary gives you a taste of it all. Are you ready for an unforgettable ride through color, flavor and rhythm?

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Panoramic view of Bogotá from the Monserrate Mountain, with the city skyline framed under a clear blue sky.
Tall wax palms towering over the lush green landscape of Cocora Valley, a stunning natural wonder in the Colombian Andes.
Vibrant and colorful street art on a wall in Medellín, showcasing the city's thriving urban street art scene.
Historic colonial building in Cartagena, with bright yellow walls and classic Spanish architecture, reflecting the city's rich heritage.

Highlights

    Things to do

    In order to enjoy Colombia the most, follow the slow and relaxed pace that represents the Colombian lifestyle. Instead of rushing your way through the country, it will be much more pleasant to explore one part of the country thoroughly. This 2-week itinerary focuses on the must-sees of the country, including a good mixture of big cities and beautiful nature.

    Got more time? Explore the country by following this 3 to 4 weeks itinerary or this 5 to 6 weeks itinerary

    he top of Piedra del Peñol, overlooking the lush green landscape and crystal-clear waters of the Guatapé Reservoir.

    Day 1-3: Bogotá

    It is likely that you’ll arrive in Bogotá, Colombia’s capital city, on your first day. It’s a good place to get your first glimpses of Colombian culture. Bogotá offers great sightseeing, beautiful street art, fascinating museums, and good food. It also serves as a base for lovely day trips.
    However, it’s a massive city where you’ll also encounter poverty, homelessness, and prostitution. Do research on where to stay and how to stay safe.

    Must-sees:

    • Stroll through the historic city center: find a way through the busy streets, explore Plaza del Bolivar and visit the Gold museum of Colombia
    • Street art hunt in La candelaria: book a tour or explore this colorful neighborhood on your own
    • Monserrate Mountain: for the best views in Bogotá – climb the Monserrate mountain or take the cable car
    • Visit Zipaquirá: Discover the breathtaking underground Salt Cathedral (read more about it here)

    Tip: Try to arrive in the morning to adjust to the altitude more easily
    Read: Best things to do in Bogotá – for an extensive guide (including activities, budget and hotel and restaurant recommendations)

    Inside the Gold Museum in Bogotá, showcasing ancient gold artifacts from Colombia's indigenous cultures under soft lighting.
    Wide view of Plaza del Bolívar in Bogotá, with the surrounding historic colonial buildings.
    Colorful street art in the La Candelaria district of Bogotá, blending traditional and modern elements of Colombian culture on a brick wall.
    Breathtaking view of Bogotá from the top of Monserrate Hill, with the sprawling city below.
    Impressive underground Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá, with intricate sculptures and religious art carved into the salt walls.

    Day 4-6: Medellín

    Hop on a short domestic flight to Medellín, one of Colombia’s most famous cities! Once infamous, now a vibrant metropolis full of life, innovation, and art.

    Don’t miss:

    • Cable Car Ride: Marvel at the views over the city and surrounding mountains
    • Comuna 13: Explore this once-dangerous neighborhood now transformed through street art
    • Palace of Culture and Botero’s Art: Wander around the city center and spot iconic sculptures
    • Day trip to Guatapé and Piedra del Peñol: Colorful streets and stunning views after climbing the rock (find all the information for your visit to Guatapé and Piedra del Peñol here)

    Tip: Stay in the neighborhoords El Poblado or Laureles for safety, great food, and the best vibes!
    Read: Here is your ultimate guide for visiting Medellín

    Vibrant street art in Comuna 13, Medellín, showcasing large-scale murals that celebrate the neighborhood’s culture and history.
    A stunning view of Medellín from the cable car, with the city nestled between lush green hills under a cloudy sky.
    A sculpture by Fernando Botero in Bogotá's Botero Plaza, with the unique block-patterned Palace of Justice visible in the background.
    Charming cobblestone street in Guatapé, Colombia, lined with colorful buildings and vibrant doors, capturing the town’s colorful spirit.
    Close-up of the Piedra del Peñol, the massive monolith rising dramatically from the landscape, with rough textures and rocky surface visible.

    How to get from Bogotá to Medellín?

    ✈️: There are multiple direct flights daily (about 1 hour). Airlines like Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air operate on this route.
    🚌 : The cheapest way is by bus. Buses leave multiple times a day from Terminal del Sur in Bogotá and take about 8 to 10 hours.

    Day 7-9: Salento

    Next, take a flight to Pereira or Armenia and head to Salento, the heart of the Colombia’s coffee triangle.

    Top experiences:

    • Hike the Cocora Valley: See the towering wax palm trees!
    • Tour a coffee farm: Learn how your favorite brew is made
    • Wander through Salento’s colorful streets: Play a game of Tejo with the locals!

    Read: Find the ultimate guide for Salento and the Cocora Valley here

    Tall wax palms towering over the lush, green landscape of Cocora Valley, with mist hanging in the air and rolling hills in the background.
    A small wooden bridge crossing a stream during a hike in Cocora Valley, surrounded by dense vegetation and towering palm trees.
    A photo of us at one of the staged photo spots at Cocora Valley, with the towering wax palms in the background and the lush landscape surrounding us.
    The coffee-making process at Finca El Ocaso, with fresh coffee cherries being sorted and processed by local workers in a rustic setting.
    Close-up of freshly harvested coffee beans, showcasing their deep red color before being processed into coffee.
    A freshly brewed cup of coffee made from beans harvested at Finca El Ocaso, served in a rustic ceramic mug.

    How to get from Medellín to Salento?

    ✈️: Fly to Pereira or Armenia (about 1-hour flights) and take a taxi or local bus to Salento (45min to 1 hour).
    🚌 : Direct buses leave Medellín’s Terminal del Sur, journey takes around 7-8 hours.

    Day 10-13: Cartagena

    Fly to Cartagena — a city filled with colonial charm, Afro-Carribean culture, and coastal breezes. A true highlight of your trip!

    Can’t miss moments:

    • Get lost in the walled city: Colorful streets and hidden gems await
    • Walk the historic city walls at sunset: With or without cocktail in hand
    • Parque del Centenario: spot monkeys, sloths, and iguanas in the middle of the city
    • Dance the night away in Getsemani: The beating heart of Cartagena’s nightlife

    Optional: Take a day trip to the Rosario Islands for snorkeling and turquoise waters
    Read: The ultimate guide for visiting Cartagena in Colombia

    Vibrant street market in Cartagena, displaying colorful paintings and artwork along the cobblestone streets, reflecting the city’s artistic charm.
    A charming yellow colonial building in Cartagena, featuring traditional balconies and intricate details, adding to the city’s colorful architectural appeal.
    A sloth hanging lazily from a tree branch in Parque Centenario, Cartagena, showcasing the laid-back wildlife of the region.
    A photo of me in the streets of Cartagena, with the iconic yellow Church of San Pedro Claver in the background, capturing the city's historic beauty.
    The beach at Boca Grande, Cartagena, with the contrast of golden sands and modern high-rise buildings lining the coastline under a bright sky.

    How to get from Salento to Cartagena?

    ✈️: Travel from Salento to Pereira or Armenia airport (1-hour drive), then fly to Cartagena (often with a short layover). Total travel time: 4 to 6 hours.
    🚌 : Technically possible, but extremely time-consuming. We strongly recommend flying here!

    Day 14: Say Goodbye

    Time to say goodbye to the beautiful Colombia. Depending on where you’re coming from, you might first have to travel back to Bogotá or Medellín before flying home.

    Panoramic view of Medellín from the cable car, showing the sprawling city nestled between lush green mountains under a cloudy sky.

    Practical tips for visiting Colombia

    How to get to Colombia?

    The main international airports of Colombia are in Bogotá (El Dorado Airport) and Medellín (José María Córdova Airport). As this itinerary starts in Bogotá, flying directly to Bogotá is recommended.

    Backpacking? Read everything about crossing borders to Panama or Ecuador here!

    How to get around in Colombia?

    • By bus: Cheaper but slow (good option: night buses)
    • By plane: Fast and affordable, but check extra baggage fees
    • Organized tours: Great for those who prefer a worry-free experience

    Where to stay in Colombia?

    • Bogotá: La Candelaria or Zona Rosa.
      • Hotel Tip: Arche Noah Boutique Hostel.
    • Medellín: Laurales or El Poblado.
      • Hotel Tip: Manila Hotel Boutique.
    • Salento: Cozy small village — any ho(s)tel near the center is perfect
    • Cartagena: Getsemaní.
      • Hotel Tip: Santuario Getsemaní Hostel.
    A vibrant, colorful tuktuk in the streets of Guatapé, adding to the town's lively atmosphere with its bright colors and unique charm.

    How much money do you need?

    Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
    Colombia is very affordable. On average:

    • We spent b$40-50 USD per day (accommodation, transport, food, activities, mobile data (using an e-sim))
    • Budget travelers spending less (cheaper accommodation with cooking your own food), luxury travelers spending more (more flights instead of buses for example)

    Best time to visit Colombia?

    • December to March: Best (driest) weather
    • April to November: Rainier but cheaper
    • Northern Colombia is warmer year-round than the center

    Annual weather forecast for Colombia, highlighting temperature and rainfall accross the country throughout the year.

    Do I need a visa to enter Colombia?

    Most nationalities do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
    ! Bring a valid passport and proof of onward travel

    What to pack for this 2-week Colombia itinerary?

    Depending on the time of the year you visit, you may have different weather conditions throughout Colombia. In the North of Colombia it is warm all year round, but higher cities like Bogotá can be a bit chillier. It is best to always bring extra layers with you. Below, you’ll find a packing list for this 2-week itinerary:

    • Clothing:
      • T-shirts and tops
      • Trousers and shorts
      • Swimsuit
      • Light Fleece/Windbreaker
      • Hiking Pants/Leggings
      • Socks and underwear
      • Casual outfit or dress (especially for Cartagena evenings!)
    • Shoes:
      • Hiking Boots
      • Flip Flops
      • Comfortable sneakers
    • Other essentials:
      • Sunscreen
      • Bug Spray
      • Reusable water bottle
      • Travel towel
      • Power bank
      • Universal travel adapter
      • Sunglasses and/or hat
      • Copies of important documents
      • Small first aid kit
    Colorful street art in Cartagena depicting a woman with a tropical vibe, holding a coconut with a straw, capturing the lively and vibrant culture of the city.

    Safety tips for traveling in Colombia

    Colombia is much safer now than it used to be, but it’s still important to stay alert. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

    • Always watch your belongings, especially in busy areas
    • Avoid walking alone at night, particularly outside of touristic areas
    • Emergency number: 123
    • Trust your intuition – if a place doesn’t feel right, leave

    Reminder: being cautious doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your trip! Most travelers visit Colombia without any trouble.

    Ready for your unforgettable Colombia adventure?

    Colombia is one of the most vibrant, diverse, and welcoming countries you can explore — and two weeks is just enough time to fall in love with it. From lively cities to lush coffee valleys to stunning beaches, Colombia will leave a mark on your heart.

    This itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a misty morning or dancing salsa under the Caribbean stars — Colombia will surprise you at every turn.

    We hope this guide helps you plan your dream trip.

    Now, pack your bags, open your heart, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

    ¡Buen viaje!

    A photo of me looking up at the towering wax palms in Cocora Valley, marveling at the height of these iconic trees against the lush green landscape.

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