how to travel in colombia

13 of the best places in Colombia to soak up salsa, sunshine and more

Feb 11, 2024 • 9 min read

Colombia is famed for its magnificent landscapes and its energetic cities, filled with street murals and Latin culture © Kris Davidson / Lonely Planet

If you have any preconceptions about Colombia , leave them at home. This remarkable country will take you by surprise.

The second-most biodiverse nation in the world harbors vast swaths of wildlife-rich Amazon jungle in its interior, while coral-white beaches, dizzying mountains and leafy highland coffee plantations crown Colombia as a place of extraordinary natural contrasts. 

But this thrilling corner of South America is much more than the sum of its natural parts. Its kinetic cities buzz with an upbeat energy that sets Colombia apart from most of the continent, proving that this once-troubled country has well and truly shed its history of conflict. 

With adventure and infectious beats around practically every corner, picking the best places to visit in the country can be a challenge. However, thanks to plentiful domestic flights and long-distance buses , Colombia is a place where it's easy to cover plenty of ground, even on a short trip.

To help you with the planning, here are the best places to visit in Colombia.

1. Cartagena

Best for architecture and atmosphere

At the top of most travelers' bucket lists for Colombia is the sultry city of Cartagena , and it's easy to see why. The stately old town is a magical walled complex of bougainvillea-slung cobblestone streets and shady squares where local performers shake, stamp and twirl, the living embodiment of the city's famous energy.

Absorbing the atmosphere of Cartagena can be as spirited – or as languid – as you choose. Laze the day away on Playa de Bocagrande or sit down to long, leisurely lunches of sharp coconut ceviche at a family-run restaurant. At night, indulge in a sundowner on a rooftop bar and sample the energetic vibe of the city's bars and clubs.

Planning tip: The heart of Cartagena – comprising the historical districts of El Centro and San Diego within the city walls – is best explored on foot so you can soak up the atmosphere.

2. The Amazon jungle

Best for wildlife encounters

Colombia lays claim to an extraordinary glut of flora and fauna that should place it on any wildlife lover's must-see list. While it covers a third of Colombia's territory, the Amazon jungle can be tricky to access, yet it remains the prime location for encountering tropical wildlife in vast swaths of untouched rainforest.

Book a tour into the rainforest from the remote outpost of Leticia and spend a couple of nights exploring one of the globe's wildest places. Boat trips putter along the Río Amazonas, and remote trails across the forest floor promise encounters with inquisitive pink river dolphins, sluggish sloths and a cacophony of howler monkeys.

3. Zona Cafetera

Best for coffee lovers

If there's one thing that keeps Colombia running, it's coffee. Find out what all the fuss is about by exploring the Zona Cafetera , Colombia's coffee heartland. Filling the lush hillsides of the departments of Risaralda, Caldas and Quindío are green plantations growing Colombia's magic arabica beans. Many family-run fincas (farms) have opened their doors to curious tourists, with day tours and overnight stays offering a deep dive into coffee culture.

Planning tip: Organize your transport to coffee country from the regional hubs of Manizales and Pereira .

4. Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Best for combining nature and beaches

Home to palm-lined tropical beaches and secluded coves, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is one of Colombia's natural jewels. Set on the Caribbean coastline east of Santa Marta , this national park is a paradise of relaxation against the dramatic backdrop of the looming Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.

Chilling on sun-soaked beaches or ambling along the jungle trails that edge the coastline are the flavor of the day here, as water currents at most beaches are too dangerous for swimming. To avoid the crowds, head by speedboat to Playa Cristal , an isolated island with pristine waters and gleaming beaches.

Planning tip: Time your visit to Tayrona outside of January or February, when the park typically closes for maintenance. And consider tacking on a visit to  Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados  in the Zona Cafetera, as part of  an ambitious four-day itinerary . 

5. Medellín

Best for street art

Once the stronghold of Colombia's most infamous drug lord, Pablo Escobar, modern Medellín is a city reborn. Backpackers will find fun in the city's plethora of hip music venues, while travelers seeking a more sophisticated stay can enjoy well-heeled neighborhoods that court visitors with shady restaurant terraces and slick bars. Known for its perennially spring-like climate, Medellín holds a boundless appeal, making it one of the best cities to visit if you're short on time, and it's also a gateway to the Zona Cafetera. 

For art lovers, the imprint of Colombian heavyweight, Fernando Botero, is visible throughout the city, with his emblematic, engorged statues adding humor to rowdy market squares. To get deeper under the city's skin, visit the urban regeneration projects at Comuna 13 and Moravia to see how street art and innovative forms of transport are injecting life into formerly down-at-heel neighborhoods.

Planning tip: For a change of pace, a ride on a modern cable car will spirit you up and out of the valley into Parque Arví , a nature reserve with pre-Hispanic trails through forests adorned with orchids.

6. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

Best for archaeological adventures

For a tantalizing glimpse into the past, head to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta , a mountain range that slices across the northeast of Colombia. After a tough three-day hike through thick jungle, you'll reach Colombia's finest archaeological site, La Ciudad Perdida .

The stone terraces of this once-crowded city were built around 850 CE along a steep-sided ridge, and the site was only reclaimed from the jungle in the 1970s. Accessible only on a tour, La Ciudad Perdida remains remote, untouched and blissfully free of tourists.

Planning tip: Book tours to La Ciudad Perdida through agencies such as Expotur in Santa Marta.

7. La Guajira Peninsula

Best for learning about Indigenous culture

Wild expanses of desert sit alongside the splendid blue of the Caribbean Sea in one of Colombia's most remote and unique corners. The Indigenous Wayuu people who call the Guajira Peninsula  home have defied invaders throughout history, and still live here in secluded villages, following their own unique rhythms.

Planning tip: To appreciate the dazzling wildness of Colombia's northernmost point, you'll need to organize a tour from Riohacha. Aim to spend at least one night on the peninsula and head out to Playa Taroa – often touted as Colombia's most beautiful beach – where sand dunes empty of visitors slide straight into the glistening sea.

Best for party people

Few places in South America love to party as much as Cali , Colombia's buzzing capital of salsa. The city's addiction to rhythm is infectious, and a visit to Cali will see you glued to the dance floor until dawn. Polish your moves at one of the many dance schools before hitting the dance floor with the locals in Zaperoco , a standout salsa club.

Planning tip: For the most iconic – and explosive – introduction to Cali's obsession with salsa, get your hands on a ticket to Delirio , a salsa and cabaret showcase of epic proportions. It takes place on the final Friday of every month.

Best for museums and culture

Rainy and cold thanks to its lofty perch in the Andes Mountains, Bogotá might feel like a mere jumping-off point for Colombia's more temperate destinations. Yet those who give it a chance will find the capital city a place with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a rich array of museums.

Gourmet dining rubs shoulders with rowdy nightlife in the city's increasingly trendy neighborhoods of Zona Rosa and Chapinero. But for a more sedate and educational visit, spend a day marveling at the tremendous riches on display in the Museo de Oro , one of the continent's finest collections of pre-Hispanic metallurgy. Another highlight is the Museo Botero , which comprises a significant collection of modern and Impressionist art, including 123 pieces by Botero himself.

10. Providencia

Best for an island escape

Situated some 1240km (770 miles) north of Colombia in the balmy waters of the Caribbean Sea, the idyllic island of Providencia is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Picture-perfect, golden-sand beaches – often practically devoid of visitors – and a laid-back atmosphere are all part of the appeal of this remote and sun-kissed patch of paradise.

Divers can splash into crystal clear waters alongside huge stingrays, turtles and reef sharks along a 32km (20-mile) stretch of the world's third-largest barrier reef. If you prefer to keep your head above water, blond sands, beachside restaurants and 25ºC (77ºF) water temperatures will more than cater to your needs.

11. Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena

Best for natural spectacles

Due south of Bogotá, Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena is one of the most incredible places to visit in Colombia. Just a short drive from the town of La Macarena, Caño Cristales is a river that runs vivid pink. Dubbed the "liquid rainbow," this remarkable stretch of water gains its rhubarb hue from the riverweed that grows here between July and October. Pack a bathing suit – you can swim in designated areas of the river. 

Planning tip: Caño Cristales only became accessible to visitors in 2010 as it lay in formerly FARC-occupied territory, but it has become a victim of its own loveliness. Visitor numbers are now capped at 200 per day, and you'll need to book your ticket with a local tour operator in advance.

12. San Gil

Best for thrill-seekers

Adrenaline junkies should look no further than Colombia's capital of adventure, San Gil . Water sports are one of the main draws here, with white-water rafting or hydrospeed tours buffeting you through scenic canyons along Class I to Class V rapids.

If you're keen to get off the ground, abseiling excursions down gushing waterfalls, paragliding over rugged mountain peaks and bungee jumping will get adrenaline levels soaring. Caving, mountain biking and canyoning are more popular activities. 

13. Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín

Best for lost kingdom vibes

In the far southwestern department of Huila lies Parque Arqueológico Nacional de San Agustín . This remarkable place comprises a network of ceremonial sites and burial grounds dotted with fantastical stone statues whose semi-human faces grin through fanged mouths with dizzyingly wide eyes. While their purpose remains largely a mystery to archaeologists, many believe the area to have been a place of pilgrimage and ancestor worship built more than 2000 years ago.

Planning tip: The archaeological park sits 2.5km (1.6 miles) from the town of San Agustín; colectivos (shared vans) run out to the park gates. Pick up a local guide at the entrance to learn more as you explore the site.

This article was first published Feb 25, 2022 and updated Feb 11, 2024.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Colombia, According to Locals and Experts

These are 20 of the best places to visit in Colombia, from colorful villages to stunning beaches.

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A hypnotizing mix of charming coastal cities, world-class cuisine, and lush landscapes hiding immense biodiversity have made the bicoastal country of Colombia one of the most sought-after destinations in the Americas. Spending a long weekend in Cartagena or a few days in Bogotá isn't enough; even after spending months living in Medellín, I felt I barely scratched the surface of all Colombia offers.

With the help of Medellín-based Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Boris Seckovic and locals who work at some of the country's most incredible accommodations, like Bio Habitat Hotel and Casa Pestagua, we've assembled a list of the best places to visit in Colombia. Read on to find the country's most scenic trekking trails, untouched white-sand beaches, and where to get the best cup of Colombian coffee.

Meet the Expert

Boris Seckovic is a T+L A-list advisor and Colombia specialist living in Medellín.

Carolina Bernal is the general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua, luxury hotels located in Cartagena. 

Related: 25 Best Places to Visit in South America

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Few destinations have done a better job rebranding themselves than Medellín, a vibrant metropolis whose rapid transformation has made it one of South America's most sought-after cities for travelers and digital nomads alike. Laureles was recently named the coolest neighborhood in the world , though travelers might be more familiar with El Poblado as home to some of Colombia's trendiest cafes, restaurants, and bars. Medellín's impressive public transportation network includes several cable cars, making the journey to green spaces like Arvi Park one of the best ways to enjoy breathtaking views of a city that crawls dramatically up the mountainsides of the Aburrá Valley.

Valle de Cocora

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Don't be surprised if the Valle de Cocora (Cocora Valley) in the heart of Colombia's coffee country looks familiar. This magical area served as the real-life inspiration for Disney's “Encanto,” so you'll be sure to hear the soundtrack's most famous song as you pass through the nearby village of Salento. Despite its new claim to fame, the Valle de Cocora has long been famous for its impressive forest of wax palm trees, which tower high above the valley, growing up to 200 feet tall.

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One of the best cities in South America , Colombia's bustling capital city of Bogotá is much more than just a stopover after an international flight. As soon as you arrive, take a funicular or cable car up the Cerro de Monserrate to take in the city views and get your bearings before exploring the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria. Visiting the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) is a must, as is experiencing the city's increasingly impressive culinary scene at spots like the award-winning El Chato, one of the world's best restaurants .

Stay at the luxurious W Bogotá , named by T+L readers among the best hotels in South America last year, or stop by for their beloved night brunch. The hotel's bold design is a modern interpretation of the legend of El Dorado.

Amazon Rainforest

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"Colombia's slice of the Amazon rainforest isn't as well-known as the Amazon in neighboring countries, but it's almost better that way," says Seckovic, who heads Amakuna , the leading specialist for luxury travel in Colombia. "You'll see far fewer people here and have a much better chance of encountering wildlife because of it." Explore the jungle by starting in the regional capital of Leticia, hidden among forest canopy and accessible only by airplane. From there, head to one of the region's ecolodges for biologist-led excursions into the wilderness, where colorful butterflies dart above waters where pink Amazonian river dolphins play.

Santa Cruz de Mompox

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Set along the Magdalena River that winds towards Colombia's Caribbean Coast, the colonial village of Santa Cruz de Mompox "feels like what Cartagena used to be," says Seckovic. An important stop along the river used by the Spanish to extract gold, the UNESCO-protected town still retains all its historic beauty, and an artisan filigree jewelry industry points to its golden past. First-of-their-kind cruises along the Magdalena River with AmaWaterways will kick off in 2024, offering a new way to experience the region on routes that twist through the countryside between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

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Cartagena is officially Colombia's worst-kept secret. Whether by cruise ship or via newly added flight routes from major U.S. cities, travelers now flock to Colombia's buzziest and most colorful hotspot year-round. A walk along age-old Spanish colonial walls at sunset with glimpses of the glimmering high-rises of Bocagrande in the distance is all you'll need to see why. 

Carolina Bernal, general manager at Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua , recommends staying in a restored mansion for a look into the city’s past. Longtime Cartagena favorite Casa San Agustin is a gem; its sister property, Casa Pestagua, is a meticulously restored and luxurious 17th-century mansion colloquially known as the most beautiful home in Cartagena.

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Until recently, Isla Barú was mostly a destination for day trippers looking for the best beaches near Cartagena. The recent addition of the Sofitel Barú Casablanca Beach Resort changes all that, making this "island" just 45 minutes from the city an increasingly popular destination all its own. Travelers can also enjoy a beach day or book an overnight at one of the six new cabana-style bungalows at Acasi Private Beach, a luxe extension of Casa San Agustin and Casa Pestagua on the sand.

Eje Cafetero

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Colombia's idyllic coffee-growing region is known as the Eje Cafetero , the "Coffee Axis." This verdant landscape is peppered with grand haciendas and tiny, shaded cafetales where families have long worked the land, and even passersby enjoy the aroma of the world's best coffee. Explore the countryside in a colorful, open-air Jeep Willy, visiting historic villages like Salento, Jardin, and Filandia along the way.

One of the region's coolest places to stay is Bio Habitat Hotel , where luxurious free-standing accommodations are enveloped in rainforest flora and fauna and offer views across the Andes. This eco-conscious, regenerative hotel perched amidst the forest canopy feels a world away, though it's just minutes from the city of Armenia and some of the country's finest artisan coffee farms.

Ciudad Perdida

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Tucked within the lush, tropical Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, Colombia's Ciudad Perdida ( or “Lost City”) is among the great ancient ruins in South America. There's no easy way to reach Ciudad Perdida; visiting this hidden settlement demands a four-day mountain trek with numerous river crossings. The payoff is well worth it: Just a few dozen intrepid travelers reach this expansive site with its terraced hillsides and circular plazas every day, meaning you'll get to enjoy it almost uninterrupted.

Only a handful of Santa Marta-based tour operators are certified to guide visitors to the site, still cared for by the descendants of the Tairona people who built the settlement centuries ago.

Guatapé and El Peñol

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It's impossible to miss El Peñol, a massive monolith towering many stories over the countryside of Antioquia as if dropped from the heavens by a giant. If the climb to the top doesn't take your breath away, the 360-degree views from the top certainly will. Just minutes down the road, the small town of Guatapé has its own flavor of fantasy, with a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns covering the facades of its historic buildings. These twin destinations are an easy day-trip distance from Medellín, but an overnight stay at some of the country's coolest glamping spots is even better.

Caño Cristales

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Known as Colombia's "river of five colors," Caño Cristales is home to unique aquatic plants that give it a liquid rainbow effect you must see to believe. When the colorful effect is at peak vibrancy between July and November, the river seems to run green, magenta, purple, maroon, and canary yellow simultaneously. The river is located in the relatively isolated Serranía de la Macarena National Park, though locals attest it's well worth the trip to see one of the world's strangest natural wonders.

Related: Visiting Caño Cristales, Colombia's Liquid Rainbow

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The village of Barichara is arguably Colombia's prettiest. Barichara is a bit further from the country's major cities than other historic gems like Villa de Leyva, so "it's stunningly beautiful, but still not too touristy," says Seckovic. The town made T+L's list of the best hidden gem destinations to visit last year and is conveniently located just a stone's throw from San Gil, the undisputed capital of adventure travel in Colombia.

Tayrona National Park

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In Tayrona National Park, Colombia's best beaches line untouched jungles with enough endemic flora and fauna to make any eco-conscious traveler swoon. Take a skippered sailing excursion to the park directly from Santa Marta, with stops at spots like Bahia Concha and Cabo San Juan for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. More adventurous travelers can trek through the park and camp in hammocks perched directly over white sands.

Rosario Islands

“The Rosario Islands, or Islas del Rosario, are known for coral reefs and year-round diving and snorkeling opportunities," says Bernal of this perennially popular destination located off the coast of Cartagena. Hop on a speedboat in town and escape to eco-friendly boutique hotels tucked away on sandy shores, offering some serious rest and relaxation far from the crowds. It's an affordable and laid-back alternative to the built-up Caribbean islands where you would spend your days fighting for beach chairs.

Barranquilla

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Among the cities on Colombia's Caribbean Coast, Barranquilla can't compete with buzzy, beautiful Cartagena. However, for one week a year, Colombia lives and breathes to the rhythms of the Carnival of Barranquilla. Folkloric dance, music, and rich, regional food shine among a packed schedule of events including the Battle of the Flowers, the Great Troupes Parade, and the Death of Joselito Carnival, each more vibrant than the last. It's such an essential spectacle that it made the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .

Related: T+L's Guide to Colombia's Caribbean Coast

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The small city of Popayán still flies under the radar of most travelers, but it's all the better for it. Known as Colombia's "White City" for its grand historic center's whitewashed facades, this laid-back town feels like a breath of fresh air for travelers with an itinerary packed with just the country's biggest highlights. It's a great first stop on a road trip north through cities like Cali and to the haciendas and villages that make the Eje Cafetero so memorable.

Tatacoa Desert

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The Tatacoa Desert is the second-largest arid environment in Colombia, after the dune-studded La Guajira at the northern tip of South America. However, Tatacoa isn't a desert at all, but a long-dry tropical forest where lush flowers bloomed a millennium ago. Its unexpected past makes fossil-hunting a perfect pastime on hikes through its dramatic red canyons. Tatacoa's remote location and ideal atmospheric conditions also make it one of South America's best destinations for stargazing .

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Known as the capital city of salsa, Cali is the best place to visit in Colombia if you want to settle into several days of lessons to truly master these sensual steps. Zaperoco Bar is one of Cali's most famous salsa clubs, while Siboney — its name pointing to the rhythm's original Cuban roots — has long been one of Cali's salsa institutions. Fill your dance breaks by exploring the city's historic center and with day trips through the Valle del Cauca for river tubing, ziplining, and waterfall hikes.

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Tucked away within Utría National Natural Park on a remote stretch of Colombia's Pacific Coast, the tiny beach town of Nuquí is known as one of the best places in the country for whale watching. Between July and October, humpback whales travel from Antarctica to these warmer waters to give birth to their babies in the region's protected lagoons. Whale watching is the undisputed highlight for most travelers visiting Nuquí, but adventurous travelers will love surfing near jungle-fringed shores and hiking to long-hidden rainforest waterfalls.

San Andrés and Providencia

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Search for the islands of San Andrés and Providencia on a map, and you'd be forgiven for thinking they were a part of Central America. These tiny, remote islands over 450 miles from the Colombian mainland sit within a stretch of sea so azure it's called the "Sea of Seven Colors," and they are home to some of Colombia's last truly untouched beaches. Livelier San Andrés and more unspoiled Providencia are little-visited, idyllic destinations worth considering for your next unplugged, unbothered Caribbean getaway.

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Colombia Travel Guide

Where skyscrapers sit next to quaint pueblos, and dense green rainforests merge with surreal red deserts.

Best time to visit Colombia

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Colombia's location on the Equator guarantees year-round warmth. The best and driest months run from December to March — perfect for sunny adventures. April to November brings more storms but lower prices and a great time to visit for crowd-averse travelers!

Best Cities

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• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Colombia worth visiting?

Colombia is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From pristine Caribbean beaches to lush rainforests, rich history, thrilling adventures, and incredible coffee culture, Colombia offers a unique blend of landscapes and experiences perfect for exploring.

Is Colombia cheap to visit?

Colombia is one of the cheapest destinations to travel in South America. Hotels start from around $15 per night, while delicious meals at local eateries cost as little as $3, perfect for those seeking incredible travel experiences without breaking the bank.

Can I drink tap water in Colombia?

It’s a common misconception that tap water is unsafe to drink throughout Colombia, but in most major cities like Cartagena and Medellín, the water is suitable for drinking. However, tap water in rural areas, such as Minca and Tayrona National Park, should be avoided.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Colombia?

Visiting Colombia for less than 90 days? Most passport holders don’t need a visa; you can even fast-track immigration by preloading information about your stay online in advance. Just make sure to have a valid passport and proof of a return/onward ticket, and get ready for your adventure!

Tip: Some countries have stricter visa regulations, so check your entry requirements well ahead of time.

What language do they speak in Colombia?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Colombia. While English is widely spoken in the tourist areas, it’s worth knowing some basic Spanish words to enhance your connections with Colombian locals.

Do I need travel insurance for Colombia?

Travel insurance is essential when visiting Colombia! It provides crucial protection against unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies, flight disruption, and lost luggage, so that you can discover this incredible country with peace of mind.

Is Colombia safe?

Despite its turbulent history, Colombia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America; therefore, an emphasis has been put on traveler safety. Exercise caution by keeping your valuables out of sight and staying in well-traveled areas.

What power plug type does Colombia have?

Colombia primarily uses Type A and Type B plugs. You can use Type A plugs in Type B sockets, but not the other way around. An international plug adapter is a great option, ensuring you always have the correct plug type and keeping you charged during your trip.

Why do people love Colombia?

People love Colombia for its unique blend of diverse landscapes, experiences, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re going to be hiking through the palm-filled landscapes of the Cocora Valley, exploring the colorful streets of Medellín, or relaxing on the beaches of Palomino, there is something for everyone.

Travel to Colombia

Colombia is a country of two sides. Where pristine beaches meet rugged snow-capped mountains, and modern skyscrapers coexist harmoniously next to charming pueblos; a place of unexpected beauty. With a turbulent history of gang rivalry and drug cartels, you’ll now find united communities and smiling locals. This history, combined with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, makes traveling Colombia so special.

How to Plan Your Trip to Colombia

Explore our Colombia travel guides to plan your perfect trip! Whether you’re backpacking or looking for the best-kept secrets, we’re here to help. Dive into the best things to do in Colombia, or check our complete 3-week Colombia travel guide and discover this extraordinary country!

Short on time? 2 Weeks in Colombia  is the perfect amount of time to tick off the country’s highlights and explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.

Best Time to Visit Colombia

Planning your backpacking adventure or dream vacation in Colombia? Find out about the weather in Colombia to choose the best month to visit.

Dry Season (December – March): Consider visiting between December and March, the driest months. With minimal rainfall, clear skies, and sunny days, it’s the ideal time to explore Colombia’s stunning landscapes and beaches. However, good weather typically brings larger crowds and higher prices. If you’re planning to visit Tayrona National Park, we’d recommend avoiding December, as locals travel here for the holidays, which can get extremely busy.

Wet Season (April – November): Expect occasional downpours outside these months (April-November), but don’t let that stop you. The off-season is a fantastic time to travel; the temperature is still pleasant, yet prices are typically lower, and there are fewer crowds, so it can be a great time to go on your Colombia holiday!

It’s also worth noting the climate in Colombia varies depending on where you are in the country. Central Colombia is always a little colder than North Colombia, so make sure to pack layers for the cooler temperatures.

Best time to visit Colombia for festivals: If you’re keen to experience the incredible culture, the best time to visit Colombia is during local festivals, such as Carnaval de Barranquilla in February and Medellín’s Feria de las Flores (the Festival of Flowers) in August, offering a unique insight into the traditions of the country.

Whatever time you choose, Colombia promises a rich and diverse experience for every traveler.

Coastlines and Beaches in Colombia

Some of Colombia’s best places to visit are along the Caribbean coast, where you’ll find pristine white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

One of the best things to do in Colombia is spend the night in Tayrona National Park , home to beautiful beaches, an abundance of wildlife, and dense jungle. Spend your day sipping on freshly picked coconuts, hiking through lush forests, over wooden walkways and boulders, and enjoying the crystal clear waters and incredible marine life. Best of all, end the night sleeping in a hammock under the clear night sky – a true bucket-list experience!

If you’re looking to relax for a few days, Palomino is the perfect spot; a quaint beach town that welcomes the slower pace of life. For a bit more of a buzz, the Baru Islands off the coast of Cartagena is a local favorite, with a lively atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

For off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Pacific coast of Colombia is the ideal place. Home to dense rainforests, rugged beaches, and whale-watching opportunities, this area is a true hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation in Colombia or a backpacking adventure, the coastlines and beaches cater to all.

Food, Culture, and Religion in Colombia

Colombia is a country where food, art, and festivities hold a special place in the heart of its population, finding any excuse to gather and enjoy home-cooked arepas or take to the streets and salsa dance. But Colombia’s creative expression doesn’t stop there; art is everything, bringing people together and changing the lives of many. Suburbs like Communa 13 in Medellín, once rife with violence, have evolved thanks to the arrival of street art conveying powerful political messages. After seeing these murals, the colors will leave a lasting impression in your memory forever.

In addition to its cultural roots, religion plays a prominent role, with most of the population following the Catholic faith. This influence is evident in the breathtaking churches and cathedrals scattered across the country, like Las Lajas in Pasto, voted one of the world’s most beautiful churches. Additionally, religious events, like Semana Santa (Holy Week), span the country and create a deep connection among its people.

Colombia’s food and coffee scene reflects its vibrant culture, full of diverse flavors, aromas, and colors. From iconic dishes like arepas, bandeja paisa, and buñuelos to regional specialties such as hearty stews in the Andean region and ceviche on the Caribbean coast, Colombian cuisine is a sensory journey. Given its world-renowned coffee culture, it should also be no surprise that Colombia is one of the world’s largest coffee producers, recognized for its rich, full-bodied flavor, a must-try for all coffee lovers while in the country!

Why You Should Travel to Colombia

Some of the planet’s most extraordinary natural experiences can be found on vacation in Colombia. Whether you’re riding through the world’s tallest palm trees, hiking in the Andes, or snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean coast, this country offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Among these landscapes, discover lost cities, underground salt mines, and puzzling natural phenomena – each with an ancient story that forms the backbone of Colombia’s heritage.

What sets Colombia apart is the availability of travel for all types of budgets. Whether you’re looking to explore diverse landscapes, dive into the rich culture and history, drink endless amounts of coffee, or relax on one of the many tranquil beaches, Colombia is one of the most affordable destinations to experience in South America.

Safety and Travel Advice in Colombia

Colombia is a vibrant and unexpectedly stunning destination in South America with a history of conflict, violence, and political instability. While much of this is in the past, travelers planning a holiday in Colombia should follow precautions to get the most out of this beautiful country.

Natural Disasters: Colombia is susceptible to natural phenomena like earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanoes. It’s advised to stay informed about local conditions, follow local authorities’ guidance, and consider travel insurance that covers unexpected events.

Crime and safety in Colombia : While violent crime is on the decline, and the country has made significant progress, it’s advised to stick to well-known tourist destinations and exercise caution. Petty theft is still a problem, so always keep valuables out of sight, particularly in busy areas and on public transport. We’d also recommend going out with other travelers at night and not on your own, sticking to well-lit streets.

Learn more about travel safety

Protests in Colombia: Sometimes protests can happen unexpectedly, causing disruption to the area. It’s advisable to steer clear of any of these demonstrations in case they escalate.

Cultural Sensitivity: While Colombians are very warm and welcoming, the country boasts a rich cultural heritage, so respecting local customs is important. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always really appreciated. Before taking photographs of local people or their property, always ask permission. And it’s suggested to avoid sensitive topics of conversation such as politics.

Travel Insurance: Before heading on your Colombia holiday, purchasing travel insurance is essential. Petty theft and unexpected accidents, such as lost baggage and injuries, can occur, so it’s always best to protect yourself. Check out these best travel insurances .

A Nomad on the Loose

I am from everywhere and nowhere, and i am going anywhere and everywhere., a first-timer’s itinerary for discovering colombia .

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Over the past few years, Colombia has become quite a trendy destination for many. While Cartagena has long been a cruise ship port of call, the rest of the country had long been only on the path of more adventurous travelers. If you’re considering booking a flight, here’s a first-timer’s itinerary for 10 days in Colombia (not counting flying days).

Like many other countries in South America, Colombia is incredibly diverse, and there’s no way you’ll get to explore all its fascinating aspects in one short trip.

This Colombia itinerary is just a taste of the country by way of three major cities: Bogota in the Andes, Medellin in the Aburra Valley, and Cartagena on its Caribbean coast.

Table of Contents

Is Colombia safe?

This is probably either a question on your mind or a question others will ask you when you say you’re going to Colombia, so let’s just get it out of the way first.

Safety in Colombia is relative and dependent on where in the country you are. There are certainly still places in the country where you shouldn’t go, particularly in border and frontier regions, but most of the larger cities are relatively safe these days.

Here’s my evaluation based on personal experience:

• Bogota, no less safe than other major capitals like San Jose, Costa Rica or Kathmandu, Nepal
• Medellin, no less safe than other big cities like Shanghai, China or Milan, Italy
• Cartagena, no less safe than other touristy cities like Barcelona, Spain or Phuket, Thailand

In other words, exercise normal traveling caution.

Keep an eye on your surroundings and your belongings, know before you go, stay in well-lit areas that have other people, and trust your gut.

Honestly, the only reason I ever felt even a little uncomfortable while in Colombia was because neither my partner nor I spoke more than basic Duolingo Spanish. Had we been able to communicate more fluently, the trip probably would’ve been better because we would have had fewer hiccups and been able to chat more with the locals.

What to expect in Colombia

A few quick tidbits that will make your visit go smoother:

Language: There are English speakers in touristy areas, but otherwise it’s pretty limited, so equip yourself with Google Translate or another translation app and learn some Spanish ahead of time.

I had been able to understand most interactions in Cuba with only a little bit of difficulty (and without the aid of Google Translate since my cellphone didn’t work there).

But the Spanish spoken in Colombia was much faster. I was constantly asking people “Uno mas por favor, tu habla un poco rapido para mi.” (I know, I know, that’s not the right construction, but I had a hard time remember “una vez mas.” “Uno mas,” on the other hand, is always handy for ordering another round.)

Weather: Colombia’s geographical diversity means the weather can be incredibly different from one place to the next. For this Colombia itinerary, you’ll move from dry and cold mountainous temperatures in Bogota to warm valley weather in Medellin to tropical humid heat in Cartagena.

When we visited in late April and early May,

• Bogota ranged from high-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit
• Medellin had mid-60s to mid-80s
• Cartagena went from low-80s to low-90s — but with enough humidity for it to feel like 105 at 8 a.m.

In other words, pack diversely and appropriately. Check out my packing list for this trip — carry-on only!

Toilets: Except in super nice places, you usually need to put toilet paper in the trash can provided instead of down the toilet.

Be nice to the plumbing.

Money: Colombian bills are big! Get to know your money and how they convert to your home currency, and don’t get bamboozled by others or your own confusion. (Guilty!)

In 2019, $1 USD is equivalent to approximately $3,200 Colombian Pesos (COP). And yes, they use the dollar/peso sign as their currency symbol.

The thing about drugs:  You may know a thing or two about Colombia’s dark history with cocaine and the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar. While Colombians don’t deny this history, keep in mind that Colombians were the people who suffered the most under Escobar’s reign. Your best bet is to avoid ever saying his name out loud, and while you’re at it, skip the word “cocaine” as well.

Okay, let’s get started with this itinerary 10 days in Colombia. Recommendations for where to stay and how to get around will be included under each city.

And as a quick reminder, this itinerary assumes that you’ll have 10 days in Colombia plus two travel days bookending it.

Days 1-2: Dive into Bogota

Bogota is a huge city. Seriously, as inhabitants of a 7-miles-by-7-miles city, Bogota felt intensely large.

After your arrival the previous day, make sure to take some time to absorb your surroundings and get acclimated. Not only will you be in a new country, you may also need to adjust to Bogota’s elevation: a whopping 8,660 feet (similar to many ski resorts ).

One of my favorite ways to get adjusted to a new city is just to walk around, eat street food, and get a sense of how people interact with each other.

Learn about Bogota’s history

To get acquainted with the city, start your first morning in Bogota with a free walking tour with Beyond Colombia .

I’m usually not a huge fan of large tours, but I knew very little about Colombia other than its status as a former Spanish colony. And in such situations, I’ve found that free walking tours can be a great way to learn about the city and see many of its main sights in a contextualized fashion.

Our guide Bryon, a historian by education, did a fantastic job introducing us to the history of Colombia and Bogota, provided the cultural context behind the city’s street art, and gave us a sense of what else we could do during our time in Bogota.

Participate in Colombia’s national sport

Then it’s time to experience something 100% Colombian.

We wanted to do something local that was off the tourist path but very much in Bogota, and tejo provided us with that opportunity.

Check out this post about the national sport of tejo . Hint: there’s gunpowder and beer involved!

Summit Monserrate

Head out early on your second day in Bogota and hit the sacred hill that towers over Bogota. You’ll see many locals hiking up and down Monserrate either as a pilgrimage to the church and shrine at the top or simply as exercise.

The religious aspects weren’t that interesting to us, but the hike was really nice and the views of the city were stunning.

Just make sure to drink plenty of water and take it slow. Bogota is already pretty high up, and the top of Monserrate sits at 10,341 feet.

You can also take the funicular or cable car up and down if you’d prefer.

Have some hot chocolate with cheese

Yep, you read that right. Colombian hot chocolate has a surprise ingredient you have probably never associated with the drink: cheese. Sweet and salty all in one.

Sounds weird, I know, but unless you’re lactose intolerant or don’t like chocolate, you just have to give it a try. Plus, it makes for a nice snack after your Monserrate hike.

Explore the Museum of Gold

Once you’ve cooled down, check out the world’s largest gold collection.

While all the gold is nice and shiny, the real treasure is in the collection’s preservation of the country’s pre-Columbian heritage.

If you can, try to go on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11 a.m. or 4 p.m. when they have guided tours in English. I’m told those make it much more informative and easier to take in the museum’s 55,000+ pieces of gold.

The information is helpful especially because the museum can be a little repetitive and out of context if you don’t know a lot about Colombia’s pre-Columbian heritage. The museum has exhibit halls for each of the country’s indigenous cultures, but the artifacts can look rather similar once you get to the 5th or 6th hall if you’re like me and unfamiliar with the differences.

If you’re unable to make it to those guided tours, make sure to at least check out the main exhibits, including the famous Muisca Raft, aka the El Dorado Raft.

Where to stay in Bogota

The bulk of Bogota’s main sights is in La Candelaria , one of the city’s 20 districts. It’s not known as the safest neighborhood, but it’s certainly the most convenient if you want to be close to everything. Many hostel options are also there, and if I had been traveling solo, I probably would have stayed in La Candelaria.

Near it is Chapinero , the hipster, trendy, LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood that’s popular with ex-pats and tourists.

You can also stay in Teusaquillo like we did, but we’d recommend you stay in the part of Teusaquillo that’s closer to La Candelaria unlike at the far end like we did. It often took 40-50 minutes to get into town center where everything was!

How to get around Bogota

Real talk: getting around Bogota can be a little difficult if you’re not staying in the central neighborhoods and are a little deficient in Spanish. (Also doesn’t help if you’re wandering the city after a sleepless redeye.)

If you find yourself not staying in one of the aforementioned central locales where you can just walk, you’ll have the option of :

• Taxis. These are fairly cheap in Bogota, even when you’re going long distances. If you’re not staying at a well-known hotel, make sure you’re able to tell or show the driver the cross streets for your destination.
• TransMilenio , the bus system that has dedicated lanes. You’ll need to buy a Tu Llave card and add credit to it to board these buses. (At certain stops, there are loaner cards where you can pay in cash and use the card to board, but it’s not guaranteed.)
• SITP buses , the good old regular buses that share the Tu Llave card with the TransMilenio buses.
• Busetas/colectivos , or unofficial mini-buses that you can flag down. They have signs in their windows indicating the major streets they pass. You pay cheaper cash fares on these. It’s mostly locals who take these, so let’s just say when two non-Spanish speaking gringos (aka yours truly) somehow flagged down the right colectivo on their first try, the locals were quite amused.

Days 3-4: Medellin, once the world’s most dangerous city

Unlike many recent travelers to Colombia, I did not associate Medellin with the drug trade that ravaged the city and its residents for decades. I’ve also never seen more than a few minutes of  Narcos , the Netflix-show that has rather split Colombians’ opinions of its portrayals.

Instead, I knew Medellin as a popular South American spot for digital nomads, a place of temperate weather and delightful street art.

Hear Medellin’s history

So for me, it made sense to start our time in Medellin with a free walking tour to learn more about the city’s history. Make sure to book your spot with Real City Tours ahead of time; the booking window opens 1.5 days before your preferred tour time.

One of the most fascinating things I learned was about how the city has used social urbanism to rejuvenate the city. That is, going into the previously more dangerous areas of the city and using architecture to create something good.

For example, creating a forest of Colombia bamboo and light pillars in Plaza Cisneros, a place that used to be full of drugs and prostitutes, or building big beautiful libraries in tough neighborhoods that had no safe common spaces.

A concept we could probably apply in many cities around the world!

Taste Colombian craft beer and aguardiente

Then check out some Medellin institutions for lunch and an afternoon drink to escape the heat.

For a traditional paisa lunch in the downtown area, try Hato Viejo or Hacienda and get your fill of the famous local dish of bandeja paisa. This heavy plate of meat, beans, and carbs will fuel you up, so consider splitting a platter if you’re not really hungry.

If you’re adventurous, I’d suggest trying mondongo at the restaurant of the same name. This tripe, veggie, and corn soup is topped with rice, avocado, and even a banana. It’s not everyone’s bowl of flavor, but I loved it.

If your traditional lunch induces a food coma and the walking tour made your legs tired, spend a lazy afternoon at Salon Malaga, which has been a Medellin institution for more than half a century.

It is old-school in the most charming ways, a place where you feel so comfortable just passing the afternoon away with beers and new friends. (Less chill when rounds of aguardiente come around, but you should try this Colombian liquor nonetheless.)

Visit the infamous Comuna 13

I know, I know, you’re asking yourself why I have yet another free walking tour in this Colombia itinerary.

I won’t lie, it surprises me, too. We probably did more walking tours in Colombia than I usually do in a year’s worth of travels. But you’ll definitely want to join a tour for Comuna 13.

Medellin was once known as the world’s most dangerous city, and Comuna 13 was its most dangerous neighborhood.

Today, the neighborhood is slowly improving itself economically, and it is no more dangerous than anywhere else in the city. In fact, because of the extra policing, locals feel it’s actually safer than other areas of the city.

What really necessitates a tour guide is the personal stories they can offer.

If you go with Zippy Tour , your guide will be someone who grew up (and often still lives) in Comuna 13. The personal experiences they can share is something you’ll never get simply by visiting on your own (maybe unless you spoke fluent Spanish and spent enough time there to gain the trust of the residents).

Where to stay in Medellin

It’s tried and true: the expat neighborhood of El Poblado was truly a fantastic place to stay in Medellin. The neighborhood was very walkable, you could easily get to other areas of the city via public transit, there are a lot of dining and nightlife options, and overall it was just a gorgeous neighborhood.

We really enjoyed staying at  574 Hotel .

It’s small boutique spot nestled in a quiet area of El Poblado but also close to the metro and the main thoroughfares of the neighborhood. Clean, quiet, and chic at approximately $50 USD per night for two people, breakfast included. Would highly recommend!

How to get around Medellin

Compared to Bogota, Medellin is easy peasy when it comes to public transit.

It’s got the country’s only metro system, and that’s about all you need. Just buy a ticket⁠—or they can load up multiple rides on one shareable card for you⁠—and off you go.  

Pro tip: If you’ve loaded multiple tickets onto one card, you’ll need to drop the card into the slot on your last ride in order to enter the station (instead of scanning the card as you usually would).

I think this metro system is also the reason why I felt Medellin was much easier to navigate, literally and mentally, than Bogota.

Day 5: Day trip to colorful Guatape

Medellin also has a long-distance bus station that offers routes to many other parts of the country. Heading into it reminded me of all the long-distance bus stations in Asia.

One of the easiest day trips to take from Medellin is to the colorful town of Guatape. Here’s a guide to visiting Guatape on your own .

Day 6: From Medellin to Cartagena

After a long and active day trip to Guatape, take it easy on your last day in Medellin.

Explore the neighborhoods, check out the street art, and consider visiting Casa de la Memoria, the part-museum, part-memorial to those lost during the city’s most dangerous years.

Watch the sunset at the wall

Then make your way to the coastal city of Cartagena, aka Cartagena de Indias.

For a leisurely introduction to the city, hit up the Cartagena Old Town wall for some gorgeous Caribbean sunsets. Pick up a six-pack from the grocery store or buy drinks from the many vendors there, and just enjoy the Caribbean breeze.

Days 7-8: Time for a Caribbean vacation

A quick note about Cartagena’s weather: it is hot, hot, hot. Oh, and humid, too.

I’m talking 89 degrees Fahrenheit, feels like 105 — at 8 in the morning. So while you probably needed at least a light jacket for Bogota’s foggy, mountainous chill, you’ll be wanting to wear as little as possible by the time you get to Cartagena.

Get your inner Instagram model on

Start your first full day in this port city by exploring the beauty of Cartagena’s Old Town.

And maybe even get a little glam for the ‘gram with Cartagena’s fabulous doors and facades .

Cartagena, a different side of Colombian history

Then get a little more serious with the last walking tour (I promise!) of the trip.

Unlike Bogota and Medellin, Cartagena showcases a different side of Colombian history. A port city bombarded by pirates, a hub of the Caribbean slave trade, a city that celebrates three different independence days.

Join Free Tour Cartagena, and you’ll get to learn all about it.

Escape the heat at the “coolest” bookstore

Needing a break from the heat and humidity? Get some rest and a reprieve from the blazing Caribbean sun by heading to the coolest bookstore in town: Abaco Libros y Cafe.

This adorable brick-decorated bookshop is cool in so many ways. It’s so easy to pick up a good book and enjoy it along with AC and a drink.

Coffee, booze, coffee and booze? Up to you.

Salsa time!

After dinner, it’s salsa time! While Cali is known as the salsa capital, Cartagena’s not a bad spot either.

We went to Donde Fidel on the recommendation of a local. The spot is a bit small, but it is full of Colombians, local and from elsewhere in the country, enjoying great music, cold beer, and (watching people) salsa.

It was horrendously loud and way too bright, though. Great place for watching the pros dance, not great to try to pick up a few moves.

Two other recommended spots: Cafe Havana and Quiebra Canto. I hear those are better for actually hitting the dance floor.

Explore Getsemani’s art

Step outside of Cartagena’s walls for your second day there and explore the ever-so-cool, so-hipster-but-maybe-really-just-gentrifying neighborhood of Getsemani.

It’s got Cartagena’s best street art, adorable alleys, and a great people-watching spot in Plaza de la Trinidad.

Plus, it’s also the locale for many of Cartagena’s coolest hostels . Backpackers, onto Getsmani you go.

Adventures abound in Cartagena’s fort

If you have interest in military history or just want to see something a little different, consider checking out Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. It’s the fort that helped protect Cartagena from the many pirates that attacked it over the centuries.

Tickets are $25,000 COP per person, a bit more than it was worth in my opinion. Then again, Cartagena had a city-wide blackout the day we visited the fort, so perhaps the cool respite we got in the fort’s tunnels were well worth it.

Take an evening stroll in an urban park

Squirrels, iguanas, sloths! Yep, you can see all those in the heart of Cartagena in Centennial Park.

It’s the perfect place to spend the dusk hours after a long hot day and before your nighttime plans.

Where to stay in Cartagena

Besides the hostels of Getsemani, Cartagena has tons of amazing hotels and hostel s for all budgets.

I’d suggest staying at least part of your time in Old Town and the other part in Getsemani.

How to get around Cartagena

You walk. Seriously, it’s the best mode of transportation, especially when you’re in Cartagena Old Town, Getsemani, and other surrounding areas.

If the heat is a bit much for you for longer walks or you need non-walking options for another reason, taxis are also incredibly affordable in Cartagena.

There are also local buses, of course. We walked everywhere so we didn’t get a chance to take one, but they honestly looked like a hoot based on what we saw (and yes, I mean regular buses, not the chiva party buses.)

Days 9-10: A getaway from the getaway

And then it’s time for a getaway from the getaway. That is, head out to the Caribbean islands off of Cartagena’s coast.

You can stick to Isla Baru for the closest option, check out one of the many Rosario Islands, or even fly out to the island of San Andres.

Because we only had 10 full days in Colombia to fit in everything you’ve read, we stuck to the closest option: Isla Baru and Playa Blanca.

Hello, Playa Blanca

Because Playa Blanca is the closest island option from Cartagena, it can be very crowded, especially on weekends when locals also go to enjoy its beauty.

The farther you walk from the head of the beach, the more peaceful and less crowded it will be. Unfortunately, it does also get a bit rockier as you get deeper into Playa Blanca.

Your best bet? Go closer to the crowds when you want to be in the water, but stay somewhere farther away, and relax in a cabana somewhere in the middle. We enjoyed the cabana, drinks, and food at Hostel Restaurant Brenely.

Make sure to bring more cash than you think you need, though. There are no ATMs on the island, and most of the establishments do not accept anything except cash. Those cabanas, tropical drinks, and seafood dishes add up way faster than you think.

Pro tip: Should you find yourself a bit low on cash, go eat your meals at Los Corales. It’s located near the start of the beach and accepts credit cards for a 5% surcharge.

And then, just enjoy (and maybe remember to reapply your sunscreen as well) until you have to head back to Cartagena and then hasta luego to Colombia.

Where to stay in Playa Blanca

Waking up to the ocean breeze blowing in. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves. Seriously the best parts about staying overnight in Playa Blanca! We especially loved walking up and hanging out on our seaside balcony.

The accommodations on Playa Blanca truly are basic, but there are still some nicer ones that include breakfast, bucket showers, and indoor toilets in the price. Our private room at Nuestra Cabanita was on the lower end at $110,000 COP (~$34 USD).

If Playa Blanca’s offerings are too basic for you, consider staying elsewhere on Isla Baru where there are more resorts. I’ve heard fantastic things about Hotel Playa Manglares Isla Baru .

How to get to Playa Blanca

How to get around Playa Blanca would be a silly section to include, but I’m sure you’ll want to know how to get there.

There are tons of tour agencies in Cartagena offering transit to Playa Blanca (your lodging probably will as well). But if you’re looking to DIY it, Hostel Mamallena in Getsmani has basically corned the market on public transit. For $50,000 COP per person, you get round-trip tickets on an AC-equipped, direct shuttle to and from Playa Blanca.

If you have four people, you can also consider taking a taxi or speedboat there.

I hope this massive post on our 10-day Colombia itinerary has inspired you and will help you plan your trip. Pin it to share it!

9 thoughts on “ A First-Timer’s Itinerary for Discovering Colombia  ”

[…] packing versatile items that can get squished without a problem. When it came to packing for our 10 days in Colombia, I had to do some extra planning to make it all work because, well, Colombia’s geographical […]

Such a detailed post. Thank you for all of the information and especially details of how safe it is.

Hi! How did you travel between each city?

Hi Chrishana, We flew within Colombia via Avianca (except for our day trip from Medellin to Guatape, which we did by bus). You can take buses as well, but we did not have the time for that. Let me know if you have any other questions! Rowena

[…] learned “travel” Spanish from Duolingo in the past to prepare for trips to Cuba, Peru, Colombia, and […]

[…] said, yours truly got on a local bus in Colombia and stammered through Duolingo Spanish and still somehow got from the suburbs into the city center. […]

Thanks for a great post. I have been concerned about visiting some parts of Colombia but I feel relieved after reading your post. I’m planning to visit South America for 6 months and now may stay longer in Colombia than first planned.

I have been dying to visit Columbia! The colourful streets and doors are just stunning. I will keep this itinerary in mind for my future travels!

This is so interesting! and love the photos!!

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Colombia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Colombia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Colombia entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Colombia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Can I travel to Colombia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Colombia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Colombia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Colombia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Colombia.

Can I travel to Colombia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Colombia?

Mask usage in Colombia is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Colombia?

Restaurants in Colombia are open. Bars in Colombia are .

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Wild Junket

Colombia Itinerary: A Detailed Guide for 10 Days in Colombia

Last Updated on May 17, 2024

Explore the best of Colombia with this 10-day Colombia itinerary compiled by my friends Dorene and Troy from  Travel Life Experiences . 

Colombia has become quite a popular place to travel in recent years because of its own reinvention . Since the end of the 50-year civil war, there is a massive wave of optimism, economic development, and tourism. Now that the country has more political stability, it has opened up a whole new world to travelers.

Those curious enough to venture here will find a gorgeous and diverse country chocked full of beautiful beaches, tropical climates, mountainous areas, and coffee farms.

We spend several months each year living and traveling in Colombia , so this country has become a second home to us. Here is the perfect Colombia Itinerary for those who want to witness and experience its incredible diversity.

Table of Contents

Is it Safe to Travel Colombia?

How to get to colombia, explore the candelaria district, book a day tour: bogota breaking borders tour, what to eat and drink in bogota, where to stay in bogota, colombia itinerary day 3-4: cartagena, take a day trip to the islas, where to stay in cartagena, where to stay in tayrona, where to stay in medellin, where to stay in guatapé, how to get to jardín, where to stay in jardín, colombia itinerary day 9: jardín, colombia itinerary day 10: medellin, visa entry to colombia, how to stay connected in colombia, best time to travel colombia, what to pack for colombia, further reading on colombia, colombia itinerary.

This is a common question from most travelers, which is no surprise because of the civil war in the ’80s and ’90s. Since the half-century-long civil war ended, the country has worked hard to improve everyone’s safety. We’ve traveled all around Colombia for the last three years with not one issue or any concern for our safety.

However, Colombia is still fighting the COVID19 pandemic and there have been a series of violent nationwide protests going on since 2009. Not to forget the ongoing guerilla activities, cartel fightings and petty crime. Read my article “I s Colombia Safe to Travel? ” for full details.

There are some things you can do to be prepared. The common saying in Colombia is ‘ No Dar Papaya ’ which literally means don’t give papaya or don’t be a target. This means you should never openly show your valuables (including your cell phone) and keep your bag close to you in crowded areas like buses, metros, busy attractions and even restaurants. 

The most common entry point for travelers is the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, Colombia’s capital . El Dorado Airport is served by several non-stop international service, mainly from Europe and the Americas.

Avianca is Colombia’s national airline and the largest carrier to fly there. The cheapest flights from US to Colombia are usually on Avianca. Flights from New York to Bogota are affordable and direct, with airfares as cheap as US$500 return. Flights from Los Angeles to Bogota are only slightly more expensive, at around US$570.

Madrid is usually the main hub if you’re flying from Europe. Direct flights from London to Bogota on Avianca usually cost around US$750 return. Madrid to Bogota flights are slightly cheaper at $700 and are direct too.

Colombia Itinerary 10 days

Even with just 10 days in Colombia, you’ll be able to pack in quite a lot and experience the best of the country. In that time frame, you can easily see the major historical attractions, hike through national parks, relax on the beaches, find the thrill of adventure sports, walk through colonial towns and drink lots of coffee while you learn about this country’s transformation.  

Colombia Itinerary Day 1-2: Bogota  

This Colombia itinerary starts in Bogota, the bustling cradle of Colombia. It’s a fascinating city, but it is often misunderstood. It’s gritty, rough around the edges, cool in temperature, but eclectic, artsy, and oh so fascinating. That is why it’s one of our favorite cities for culture, food, and history. Check out our full list of t hings to do in Bogota, Colombia .

Wander through history in the historic area of Bogota, called Candelaria. People watch at Plaza Bolivar , a vast cobblestone plaza surrounded by the important government buildings named after Simon Bolivar, the man who played a crucial role in Colombia’s independence from Spanish rule.

Be awestruck by the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)  where intricate gold artifacts are on display from the original Tayrona people over 2000 years ago. Wander through the cobblestone streets to find colorful graffiti and take a coffee break in some of the best cafes in the country. If you can’t miss your Starbucks, there are many locations now, and you can also try its Colombian equivalent, Juan Valdez.

Joining a city tour will allow you time to take a cable car up to Mount Montserrate , a hill that rises 3100m and offers the best views of this enormous city. On top is a 17th-century church, as well as restaurants and viewing areas you should not miss. Other great neighborhoods worth exploring include Chapinero, Usaquen, and Zona Rosa.  

Colombia is a country in transformation with so many stories to tell about its dark past over the 52 years of civil war. The  Breaking Borders Tour  is located in the Egipto neighborhood above Candelaria. There, former gang members turned tour guides share their stories of crime, reform, and resilience. Read more about our experience on the tour.

Bogota is the best place to eat in Colombia because there is everything! When in Bogota, you need to try a steaming bowl of Ajiaco (a chicken and corn chowder accompanied with rice and avocado.)  Almost every restaurant in Bogota serves it. Don’t miss a frosty pint from Colombia’s first microbrewery, BBC (Bogota Beer Company) , especially their signature location in Candelaria. There are many locations in major cities in Colombia if you miss your chance in Bogota.

There are so many options for accommodation in Bogota , you’ll be spoiled for choice. We recommend staying in the Candelaria district which is the charming historical district with lots of museums and places of interest. Two highly recommended options where we’ve stayed are:  

Casa Hotel Casa Guadalupe

An outstanding hotel with modern and yet charming rooms plus colorful interiors that boast the character of Colombia. It’s just 1km from Bolivar Square and has an excellent location. Great value for money!   Book here now!

Hostel Candelaria Real

Housed in a historical building, this affordable hotel is great for those on a budget but who still want some comfort and a good location. It doesn’t feel quite like a hostel, it has modern private rooms as well as dorm beds and a spacious roof terrace.  Check for the latest rates here.

Search for Bogota Hotels

Looking for some Caribbean heat, culture and the famous Walled City? Get ready for Cartagena. This city couldn’t be more different than Bogotá, so shed that jacket and prepare for the sun!

Fly from Bogota to Cartagena (it’s a short trip but a long distance by bus), shed some clothing, and take a short cab into the main town. Cartagena may look like Miami, but as soon as you spot the large walled old city of Cartagena you’ll know that you’re in a unique place.

Within the walled city are plenty of museums, restaurants, and shops, wander to your heart’s content, but you will need to find shade there in the afternoon. Quench your thirst with a refreshing limonada de coco (merely a delicious lemonade and coconut cream drink). Check out this list of 33 fun things to do in Cartagena !

It’s beach and boating time! The best beaches in Colombia aren’t found here off the islands surrounding Cartagena. Sure, the beaches in the Boca Grande neighborhood are nearby, but the water is dark and choppy.  If you’re looking for turquoise waters, your best bet is to take a speedboat trip to the islands in the area.

You can book these island day trips online or ask around at the main pier at El Muelle de la Bodeguita, across the walled Old City. These boat trips bring you to either the Rosario Islands or Playa Blanca. Both options have beautiful white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters, each about an hour away by speedboat. 

Book Your Island Day Trip here!

Staying inside the walled city is amazing, but also expensive. Many budget travelers stay in Getsemani, the neighborhood across from the walled town, which is about a 5-minute walk away. Now, this gentrified neighborhood is brimming with markets, shops, restaurants, and guesthouses. The district is historic and colorful by day, and lively and exciting by night.

You’ll find that Cartagena is the most expensive place to visit during your travels to Colombia. However, you can find some quality/decent value options. Refer to my guide on w here to stay in Cartagena, Colombia.

Hotel Boutique Casa San Miguel

The gorgeous and stylish boutique hotel is a small but intimate place to stay. It’s surprisingly reasonably priced, considering it has a swimming pool and a great location. We loved our time here and highly recommend it! Check the latest rates here.

Hotel Villa Colonial

This affordable hotel is set in a charming colonial-style building, with rooms overlooking Cartagena’s historic centre. It’s very well located, within easy walking distance from the interesting sights. Suitable for those on a budget. Check the latest rates here.

Find More Cartagena Hotels

Colombia Itinerary Day 5: Tayrona National Park

A trip to Colombia is not complete until you have visited the magical Tayrona National Park . Relax on empty, gorgeous stretches of golden beaches, thick rainforests, and palm tree forests while learning about the indigenous tribes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Plan to leave Cartagena early so you can maximize your time in the park.

To get there from Cartagena, you need to take a bus (4.5 hours) or taxi/private car (3h45min). We recommend taking the bus as it’s cheap and comfortable. Book your bus tickets online to ensure availability.

There’s plenty to do in Tayrona: Wander through the park, hike, swim, canoe, or dine whatever suits you. Entrance fee to the park is 54,500COP ($17.65USD). Remember to bring a copy of your passport! The student price is 8,500COP ($2.75USD), eligible if you are under 25 years old and have a student card and copy of your passport. The park closes at 5 pm, unless you plan to stay in the park for the night.  

If you stay overnight in or near the park, you will need to plan accordingly to get to Santa Marta for your flight to Medellín the next day. A bus to Santa Marta could be as long as 1.5 hours or a 30-minute taxi drive, depending on where you’re staying.  Give yourself ample time or stay in Santa Marta for the night.

For a real treat, camp in a hammock or tent in the national park. That is allowed but it means you’ll need to carry your own gear.  Here are some budget and comfortable options:

Tayrona Tented Lodge

This rustic but tastefully designed eco tented lodge is perched right on a wild and untamed beach. Each bungalow has a balcony and unobstructed sea view — you are literally staying right on the sand. It’s 7km from the national park, and a 1 hour 15 minute drive from Santa Marta. You’ll have to book WAY in advance.  Check the latest rates here.

Viajeros Tayrona Hostel & Ecohabs

This stylish eco-lodge has a great atmosphere and location right on the beach, just 13km from Tayrona National Park. Thatched-roof huts feature spanking clean and all-white interiors. It is surrounded by palm trees, plenty of hammocks. and lounging areas. It has a big swimming pool and lots of space to hang out after a day of hiking. Check the latest rates.

La Casablanca Tayrona House

Affordable and sparkling clean, this guesthouse is a good budget option located in Calabazo, just 10 minutes outside of the Tayrona National Park. It has a swimming pool and billards, plus the area around it is great for hiking. Check the latest rates.

Search for Hotels in Tayrona

Colombia Itinerary Day 6:  Medellín

Catch an early-morning  flight from Santa Marta to Medellin (around US$60 return) so you can enjoy your day in the city of Eternal Spring. Medellin is one of the places we call home for several months a year, and definitely our favorite city in Colombia. There are SO things to do in Medellin you can easily spend weeks here and not see it all.

Spend your afternoon on a Medellin city walking tour to get your bearings of the city. Take the Metro Cable and learn about the importance of El Metro de Medellin  that give thousands of people access to the city each day. Head downtown and see the Parque de las Luces , and the round and peculiar statues at Parque Botero , created by the beloved Colombian painter and sculptor, Fernando Botero. While you are there, take the opportunity to visit the Museo de Antioquia that includes paintings from Botero.

I also recommend sampling many of the exotic fruits grown in Colombia at the Mercado Minorista . It’s the best place to try  Colombian snacks like empanadas (fried corn filled with meat or potatoes) and  buñelos (deep fried dough). If you’ve got a big appetite, don’t miss the  bandeja paisa which is a plate of chicharron (fried pork belly), ground beef, chicken, egg, sausage, rice, beans, and avocado.  

El Poblado is the most popular area with tourists. It has the most restaurants, most hotels, and it is the most expensive. Laureles would be in between, with a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars with lower prices than Poblado. Envigado is the city beside Medellin and closest to Poblado. It is a more authentic neighborhood with fewer travelers, a beautiful central park and many good and more Colombian in style, with some Western restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Here are a few options for places to stay:

El Poblado  –   Art Hotel Boutique Medellin

Stylish and modern, the Art Hotel is a boutique hotel featuring brick walls, contemporary art and a New York flair. All of its rooms feature brown leather furnishing, designer lighting and bright red chaise lounges. Art Hotel also has a wine bar, as well as an art gallery and movie theater. Check the latest rates here.

Laureles – Inntu Hotel

Another modern and slick hotel, Inntu Hotel offers good value for money with big, spacious and comfortable rooms. It also has a restaurant that serves American breakfast, and a beautiful spa with an indoor whirlpool that’s open to all guests. Check the rates.

Envigado – Arame Hotel  

This is a cheaper option but just as comfortable and modern as the Inntu Hotel. It’s great for budget-conscious travelers who are looking to immerse in the local community. Check the rates here.

Search for Medellin Hotels

Colombia Itinerary Day 7: Guatapé

After spending some time in the big city of Medellin, now is the time to get back into the outdoors for some adventure!  That is where Guatapé comes into your Colombia Itinerary 10 days. It is the adventure playground of the Antioquia region and just a short (1hr to 1hr 20min) bus ride from the city. Get your bus tickets here .

Once you arrive, this playground is yours. Enjoy the colorful streets of the town, admire the zocalos (colored and themed borders on each home and business), bike around the ring road, hop on a boat along the dam, and definitely climb up to La Piedra del Penol (The Big Rock) to see some of the best views in the country. 

Hotel Bahia Guatape

Located right on the central plaza (main square), this budget hotel is a great base from which you can walk all over town and enjoy some views of the lake. It’s clean and comfortable, plus it’s good on the pocket. Check the latest rates here.

Lake View Hostel

This casual and cosy hostel has the best lake views in town. There’s a laidback atmosphere here that we love. You can also book activities like horseback riding and fishing at the hostel. Be sure to ask for a room that overlooks the lake. Book here!

Search for Hotels in Guatape

Colombia Itinerary Day 8: Jardín

Spend the next two days in one of the prettiest coffee town, Jardin . Here you will get a taste of traditional living, drink freshly harvested coffee or hike the mountains. Here’s an expert tip: many travelers travel further south to the coffee zone, but there are world-class coffee regions all over Colombia, and Jardin is no exception.

After a day of getting lost in the cobblestoned alleys of Jardin, I recommend spending the evening of people watching in one of the most gorgeous town squares in all of Colombia. For traditional food, check out the local favorite haunt, El Zodiaco, or try classic Italian pizza at Café Europa. Read my full guide to Jardin, Colombia.

Take a bus to Jardin from Medellin. There are several bus companies and different options of buses from Terminal Sur (the south terminal). Find your bus type and time, and pay approximately $26.000 COP ($9USD).   Relax and enjoy a comfortable 3-hour bus trip winding through the coffee farms of Antioquia.  

Hotel Plantación

This stylish boutique hotel is housed in a colonial building, featuring clean Scandinavian-style interior and rustic Colombian decor. I absolutely love the design of this hotel: its unique, simple and extremely tasteful. Prices are reasonable and location is great too. Check the latest rates here.

Avalon Hotel Campestre

Located right next to the cloud forest, this country-style retreat is a beautiful and comfortable lodge set amidst lush gardens. It’s close to the town of Jardin but still gives you the experience of staying in the forest. Check the latest rates.

Search for Hotels in Jardin

Jardín is one of our favorite spots for hiking and drinking coffee. Some of the best things to do in Jardin include climbing the Cristo Rey Hill for spectacular views of the town, take La Garrucha (wooden cable car) up the mountain, and walk the Camino de la Herrera.

Active travelers can also choose to book a guided hike to explore one of the many waterfalls like Salto de Angel or  La Cueva del Esplendor , take a coffee farm tour with Jardin Eco Tours and enjoy one of the many fantastic coffee shops to appreciate your own cup of black magic.

Bus travel between Jardin and Medellin is frequent, so you can decide to take a bus back to Medellin this evening or stay another night in Jardín. It’s up to you! Read more on   what to do in Jardín .

Spend your last day in Medellin and enjoy the activities you didn’t get a chance to see on your previous trip here. We highly recommend you learn about the transformation and social enterprise projects happening in Medellin. One of the most popular and most exciting tours is the Comuna 13 Grafitti and Neighborhood Tour .  

Learn about this notorious neighborhood, find out why and how it has changed, see the incredible history-telling graffiti, and ride the surprising outdoor escalator. If you haven’t had the chance to take a cable car up the mountain, this is your opportunity to do on this tour.

Visit the Casa de Memoria Museum in central Medellin. It is a free memorial of the people of Medellin where you will see what they’ve loved and lost over the last many decades. It is sobering, humbling and should be seen by every visitor to the city. For a lighter afternoon, visit the Jardin Botanico (Botanical Garden), take a cable car up to Parque Arvi park or wander through Parque Explora, an innovative science exhibition and planetarium.

Book the Grafitti Tour here!

Colombia Travel Guide

Entry into Colombia is relatively easy, and travelers from most countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and EU citizens) do not need a visa to enter Colombia. For those who do need a visa, you are eligible to stay for 90 days on a tourist visa, which can be easily extended for 6 months.

Canadians (the only nationality) are required to pay a reciprocity fee on arrival of 201.000 COP ($66USD) in cash or credit card on arrival. Although our 10-day Colombia itinerary won’t require you to be here that long, we feel confident knowing these visa requirements may encourage you to come again and stay longer!

Most hotels and guesthouses have decent WiFi (I only struggled with internet connections in Cartagena). I recommend getting an eSIM card with data plan as that works faster than the WiFI in hotels. I personally use eSIMs wherever I travel these days as they are SO much more convenient – you can buy them online, and don’t need to go to the shop or activate your eSIM through the store.

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and it has eSIMs from over 190 countries and regions around the worlds. I have bought eSIMs from Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Ecuador and Peru from Airalo and never had any issues.

Check out  Airalo’s eSIMs  here. 

How to Travel around Colombia

Colombia is very mountainous, so it takes time to maneuver around the mountains, canyons, and rivers. Having said that, your domestic airlines and buses are not only comfortable but they are also of high standard and reasonably priced.

Flying within Colombia is very affordable. Viva Colombia, LATAM, and Copa Airlines are all popular for flying within Colombia.

VivaAir – It is Colombia’s low-cost airline. It is safe and comfortable, but just be aware that they will charge you for everything including carry-on bags. Check their policies before booking. They usually fly from Bogota to Cartagena for just $50 return.

Latam and Avianca – They are high-quality airlines that often have good promotions to save money, as long as you book at least two weeks in advance.

Keep in mind when flying in and out of Medellin that you can fly into the main Airport, Medellín’s José María Córdova international airport (MDE), or you can also find domestic flights at Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) situated in the city.  

Search for Domestic Flights in Colombia

Numerous bus lines operate regionally and also throughout South America. It is best to visit the main terminals in the major cities to explore your options for price, size of bus and comfort or VIP class. Just bring a jacket because the air conditioning will be cranked up and be prepared for a long journey around the mountains.

For this 10-day Colombia itinerary, you’ll be flying for most of this journey to maximize your time in the country. But some segments will need to be done by bus. In general, bus travel in Colombia is convenient and comfortable. Pre-book your bus tickets here to ensure availability.

They are easily available and very reasonably priced. Most are metered, so make sure that the meter is on when you enter. Having your GPS to your location is a good idea because at times taxi drivers don’t always know the best directions.

Uber is available throughout the major cities with low pricing. However, you cannot use it from the airport in Medellin, only due to legalities in this city.

Colombia is great to visit all year, except for the peak tourist season from December to February and Semana Santa (Easter Week) when prices are at their highest.

Colombia’s proximity to the equator means temperature along the coast stays pretty much the same all year around, approximately 24°C (75°F). Changes in temperature and rainfall are determined more by region rather than season and it’s best to pack for all weather conditions  —  a sweater is needed along the coast at night and a jacket in the mountains.

In the Andean region, there are two dry and two wet seasons per year  —  the driest months are December to March and July to August. The rainy season hits the Andes between May to July and October to December when heavy rains can fall on a daily basis.

As mentioned, be sure to pack for all seasons regardless of when you’re visiting. You won’t need an ultra thick winter coat, but you’ll need at least a down jacket for the mountains and Bogota.

1.  Soft Shell Jacket : Pack a thin waterproof, soft shell jacket regardless of the weather you’re traveling. It’s particularly useful for the rain. Alternatively, you can opt for an ultra light down jacket that is compact and can be squashed into a ball.

2. Quick-dry pants : Bring at least two pairs of comfy trousers for the hikes. Quick-dry and lightweight hiking trousers are the best options as they are comfortable, breathable and easy to wash and dry. I recommend bringing convertible pants that allow you to zip off the bottom part and convert them to shorts.

3. Hiking shoes : Make sure you bring some comfortable and light hiking shoes. Some say high ankle boots are better as they protect you from mosquito bites and keep your ankles safe during the hikes. Others say low ankle shoes are better as it gets too hot otherwise. I say anything works as long as your shoes are comfortable and sturdy enough to protect you.

4. Sports sandals : These are the best options for traveling Colombia as they let your feet breathe in the hot weather and still provide comfort and support. I don’t recommend bringing flip-flops as those are only useful for the beach and showers.

5. Bug Spray : This is a MUST, whether you are a mosquito magnet or not. There are lots of mosquitoes especially along the coast, regardless of season, so be sure to carry bug spray. Make sure to buy one with DEET.

6. Sunscreen : Another essential thing to bring on this trip as you’ll be on the beach, island-hopping, hiking and doing lots of outdoor activity under the tropical sun. I recommend getting at least SPF 30.

7. Dry bag : You’ll need a small dry bag to protect your valuables when you’re island-hopping or kayaking and hiking around waterfalls. A 10L bag will be enough for you and your partner (unless you’re carrying an SLR).

This Colombia Itinerary allows you to cover the best of the country in a short time. We hope you enjoy your travels to this incredible country as much as we have! Please leave a comment below if you have any questions.

If you’re planning to travel Colombia, check out other articles I’ve written on Colombia:

• Is Colombia Safe to Travel in 2021 ?
• 33 Cool Things to Do in Cartagena

Where to Stay in Cartagena, Colombia

• Jardin, Colombia: The Cutest Town in the Coffee Triangle
• Exploring Cocora Valley in Colombia
• 22 Things to Do in Medellin
• Bogota Travel Guide
• My 2-Week Ecuador Itinerary
• My 2-Week Peru Itinerary
• My 2-Week Chile Itinerary

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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Dorene Wharton

We’re Dorene and Troy, a veteran marketer and TV editor couple from Canada. We’re redefining our mid-life by lifestyle redesign and full-time transformative travel. We help people who feel stuck and uninspired to make meaningful, conscious changes in their life, work and travel at  Travel Life Experiences . 

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Amazing! Delicious Delicacies. Very informative.

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My 21 Favorite Places to Visit in Colombia

From the blue waters of Tayrona National Park, the sweeping views of the Cocora Valley, and the ruins of San Agustín, Tierradentro, and the Lost City, to the white colonial buildings of Popayán and the hustle and bustle of its metropolises, Colombia is packed with things to see and do.

I’d wanted to visit Colombia for years. And after spending six weeks there, I must say, it lived up to the hype.

I had falsely assumed that six weeks would be enough to get a good sense of Colombia. After all, six weeks is a fair amount of time to spend anywhere.

But I was wrong. Given its size and the sheer number of activities, it was barely enough to scratch the surface.

Yet I did manage to see a lot.

Today I want to share my list of what I think are the best things to see and do in Colombia. These are the activities and places you should try to focus on when you visit:

1. Cartagena

But despite the crowds (and there are a lot of crowds), I really enjoyed Cartagena . While there aren’t a lot of tourist activities (you can do most of them in a single day), what makes it a wonderful place to visit is just that: it’s somewhere you can slow down, relax, and gorge on the phenomenal gastronomy .

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Bustamante Hotel Boutique – A charming budget-friendly bed and breakfast with a swimming pool. It’s located in a colonial home just outside of the walled city.

For more, check out my Cartagena travel guide .

2. Tayrona National Park

It’s easy to visit as a day trip from Santa Marta , either independently or as part of a group tour . I highly suggest you start early at the big entrance at El Zaino and exit the park through Calabazo. This underused route takes a whole day, and once you pass the Cabo San Juan campground, you’ll get the last half of the trail to yourself. Try to avoid visiting during January, Colombian public holidays (especially Christmas and Easter), and weekends, when the crowds on the beaches and hiking paths are at their peak.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Jasayma – Located inside the park, here you can experience what the area is like once all the day-trippers go home. Choose from budget rooms or thatched bungalows and enjoy free breakfast in the morning.

3. The Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida)

The Lost City was built around 800 CE and contains 169 terraces carved into the mountains, as well as a network of tiled roads and small plazas. It’s one of the most beautiful treks in the country, and the site is older than Machu Picchu!

To visit, you need to hire a tour operator (you can’t do it by yourself). It takes 4–6 days to do the trek from Santa Marta through the jungle up to these beautiful ruins and. If you’re pressed for time, you can also do it in three days; the only difference is the pace you go at. Expect to pay about $400-600 USD for tour with a local operator.

(Tip: You cross a lot of rivers, so be sure to bring an extra pair of shoes or flip flops for when you cross the rivers. You’ll easily ruin a pair of sneakers along the way.)

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Verde Hotel – Just a few blocks from the beach in Santa Marta’s Old Town, it offers outsized amenities for the price (there’s both an indoor swimming pool and rooftop hot tub).

There’s not much to do in the city itself — it’s simply a base for coffee tours or hiking the Cocora Valley (see below) or the trails around town — so it’s easy to spend a few days here watching the world go by with a good book in hand.

WHERE TO STAY: Terrazas de Salento – Offers stunning views over the surrounding mountains, tranquil outdoor spaces with hammocks, an excellent breakfast, and super welcoming hosts.

5. Cocora Valley

The route’s about five hours, and you can choose to either take the clockwise or counterclockwise route. The clockwise route, starting at the Wax Palm Valley, is easier, with fewer hills. Counterclockwise is easier at the end, though a little anticlimactic, as you end the hike walking down a boring road.

As it’s a popular hike, it’s easy to do independently, though there are also guided treks you can join as well.

(Tip: Start early to avoid the brutal midday heat, since there are a lot of exposed areas here.)

WHERE TO STAY: Salento (see above) is the closest town and jumping off point for hiking the Cocora Valley.

6. Bogotá

Bogotá is Colombia’s vibrant capital. While it’s not the country’s most popular destination, it felt the most “Colombian” to me: there was just a certain edge and charm to it, and it seemed the least touristy with the fewest gringo expats. The historic downtown, La Candelaria, is filled with bright colonial buildings, detailed museums, delicious restaurants, tiny fun bars, historic churches, and centuries-old houses.

The north end of town is home to boutique hotels and entertainment areas like Zona Rosa and Zona G. The food scene in the city is incredible (its a great place to take a food tour so you learn about the big food scene in the city), with a lot of international and cutting-edge gastronomic restaurants. Throw in some amazing walking tours, day trips, and hikes and you’ve got a recipe for an astounding city.

For more, here’s a list of all my favorite things to do — and places to eat — in Bogota.

WHERE TO STAY: Magdalena Guest House – An affordable guest house in the heart of La Candelaria. Modern and cozy, there’s a little garden area and inner courtyard, a resident cat, comfy beds, and a guest kitchen.

WHERE TO STAY: Magic Garden House – Located next to one of the city’s main parks, this hotel is walking distance to the historic center and all the city’s best dance schools.

For more, check out my budget travel guide to Cali .

8. Popayán

While you don’t need a lot of time (take the walking tour, climb the hill, see the churches, and you’re done), I do suggest staying longer to enjoy the slow pace of life. So much of Colombia is go-go-go, it’s nice to find a place that’s more “stay and relax a while.”

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel La Plazuela – Offers simple rooms (with great showers!) set in a restored 18th-century mansion in the heart of the city.

9. Tatacoa Desert

Other than that, there’s not much here. Bike around the stunning rock formations, take some walks, stare at the sky. Stay a night or two. It’s not a popular area (it’s pretty remote), but it is a picturesque way to break up the long bus ride from Bogotá to the south or vice versa.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Colonial Villavieja – This hotel has both a swimming pool and air-conditioning, perfect for relaxing after a long day hiking at Tatacoa. It’s in Villavieja, the nearest town to Tatacoa.

10. San Agustín Archaeological Park

WHERE TO STAY: Masaya San Agustin – Offers individual mountain huts and stunning views over the surrounding mountains. There’s a surprisingly fantastic restaurant on site too!

11. San Gil

WHERE TO STAY: Located in a quiet neighborhood, Meraki Boutique Hostel – This is a sustainable guest house with a large and inviting common room, a fully equipped kitchen, and free filtered water to fill up your water bottles!

12. Providencia and San Andrés Islands

Providencia is actually the center of a huge UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that covers 10% of the Caribbean Sea, and it contains some of the world’s greatest marine biodiversity. Try to make it when tens of thousands of black crabs migrate to the sea. This happens twice a year for about a 1-2-week period between April and July, so it’s not always easy to nail the timing.

WHERE TO STAY: South West Bay Cabañas – Located just a 10-minute walk from a great beach, this hotel offers both air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, two amenities that aren’t always available on the island.

13. Medellín

It’s one of the most popular destinations for expats and tourists in the country. While it’s easy to get lost in Gringoland here, even if you’re staying there, try to get out of Poblado or Laureles and see the locals’ side of town. There’s more to the city than those two areas!

WHERE TO STAY: Nomada Hotel Origen – This is a chic mid-range hotel located in El Poblado, the best part of the city to stay for first-time visitors. A big, buffet-style breakfast is always included.

To start planning your trip, check out my travel guide to Medellín.

14. Guatapé

Most people, though, come to climb the steep (and difficult) staircase to the top of the monolithic Rock of Guatapé (La Piedra) for some of the best views in the country. Guatapé is a long day trip from Medellín so I recommend trying to spend at least a night here so you aren’t as rushed and can enjoy the area little more.

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Encuentro Ecolodge – Located in a tranquil spot right along the lake, here you’ll find a variety of room options (from dorm beds to bungalows) as well as a fantastic breakfast.

15. Chingaza National Park

(Fun fact: Nearly 80% of Bogotá’s water supply comes from Chingaza and its 40 natural glacial lakes as well as man-made reservoirs.)

If you’re going to hike, joining a tour is a good idea. The guides are usually naturalists who can explain the unique environment of the area. One of the best routes is the challenging hike to the summit of Lagunas de Siecha, with a great view over the lakes.

WHERE TO STAY: Many people visit Chingaza as a day trip from Bogota (see accommodation recommendation above), though you can also wild camp in the park or stay in a dorm in the cabins in the Monterredondo section of the park.

16. Barranquilla

But there’s a lot to do here when it’s not Carnival season as well. Make sure you visit El Museo del Caribe, a museum offering an interesting insight into the history of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. There’s also a special exhibit dedicated to Gabriel García Márquez (the famous author who wrote Love in the Time of Cholera ).

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Casa Colonial – This is a welcoming colonial-era guest house in the center of town, with a lush garden to relax in after a long day exploring.

17. Tierradentro

Tierradentro is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America. It’s up there with San Agustín but gets less press since it’s located in the middle of nowhere and not on a main road. It contains over 100 hypogea (underground tombs) dating from the sixth to the tenth centuries, the only examples of their kind in the Americas. It takes a day or two to hike all the paths around the tombs. You can hire a guide if you want, but the trails are pretty easy to do on your own.

WHERE TO STAY: La Portada Hospedaje – This is one of the only accommodation options in the tiny town of San Andrés just outside the archaeological site. Fortunately, it’s a great family-run lodge that offers delicious home-cooked meals and plenty of hammocks to relax in.

18. Manizales (and Los Nevados)

But the main reason people visit is to hike Los Nevados, a mountain range with majestic snow-capped peaks. You can do a day or multi-day hike, but whatever you do, don’t rush up to the top — acclimatize yourself to the altitude in Manizales for a few days first. The town is 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, but the mountains are at 6,000 meters (19,700 feet)! I wasn’t climatized and could really feel the altitude just walking around town. Don’t push yourself if you want to do the hike.

WHERE TO STAY: Ayenda 1140 Roma Plaza – A basic budget hotel that’s walkable to all the main sights in town. If you have a rental car, you can stay at one of the many lodges in the surrounding area. You can even stay on a coffee farm !

19. The Caribbean Coast

WHERE TO STAY: Rincón del Mar Palomino – This hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the beach and has a free breakfast, a swimming pool, and lots of common areas for hanging out in.

20. Punta Gallinas

Punta Gallinas is the northernmost point in all of South America. Most people come here via a tour from Santa Marta or Cabo de la Vela, with the latter (through La Guajira Desert) being the better option if you just want to take your time and relax because it’s closer so there’s a lot less drive time. In fact, the only way to see the area is via a tour. Most are two or three nights depending on where you’re coming from. Any hostel can organize a trip for you.

WHERE TO STAY: Playa Arco Iris – This is one of the only accommodation options in town, offering basic amenities like water 24/7 and electricity thanks to their solar panel set-up (these amenities aren’t common in the region).

There are a lot of waterfalls in the area as well. Two of the best are Pozo Azul and Marinka. Both have swimming holes at them too.

WHERE TO STAY: Mundo Nuevo Ecolodge – This budget-friendly lodge is located on a sustainable farm. There are dorms and private rooms, an infinity pool, and a restaurant serving fresh food from the farm.

Colombia has a million and one things to do. I lost track of all the places I kept wishing I had time to visit. You can spend months there (and a lot of people to do). However, I think this list is a great start. My recommendation is that if you’re short on time, fly (the bus rides are long) or just stick to one area of the country and go in depth around that region.

Trying to “see it all” in Colombia is just a recipe for burnout!

Book Your Trip to Colombia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Colombia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Colombia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Colombia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 2, 2024, colombia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to the country summary.

Reconsider travel due to  crime  and  terrorism . Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.  

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.

U.S. direct-hire government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• They are not permitted to travel by road between most cities.
• Colombia’s land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized.
• They may not use motorcycles.
• They may not hail street taxis or use public buses.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Colombia.

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Avoid protest areas and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Colombia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in some parts.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.

Colombia - Venezuela Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela.

The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally.

U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

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How to Spend Two Weeks in Colombia: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Get ready to have the time of your life in Colombia! This country has it all, from stunning mountain scenery to pristine beaches, and everything in between. You’ll never find yourself bored or without something new to see or do.

I spent over a month in the country, and honestly? I could have stayed longer. I fell in love with the places, the culture, and the people. Colombia was once considered the most dangerous country in the world, but has since turned things around and is now one of the hottest travel destinations.

With the afro-Caribbean flair of Cartagena, to the more traditional Spanish colonial feel of Bogota, you’ll experience so many cultures and influences without ever leaving the country.

Try some of the deliciously fried patacones (plantains), arepas (cornmeal patties), or empanadas (fried turnover pastry) … yum! And of course, don’t forget to drink some aguardiente, the national alcoholic beverage made from sugar cane. Not quite my favorite, but the amount I drank would state otherwise.

I could go on and on about all the amazing places to see and things to do in Colombia, but I’ll save that for another day. For now, I’ll just give you a quick overview of how you can spend two weeks in this beautiful country and trust me … you can do quite a lot in 14 days in Colombia.

So let’s jump right in!

If possible, flying into one city and out of another is the best way to go. This will allow you to see more of the country without having to backtrack. If this is not possible, keep in mind, you might need an extra day of travel at the beginning or end of your trip. I have made this specific journey, flying in and out of Bogota, since it is the capital and has an international airport.

However, these are the highlights and regardless of the order in which you choose to do them, you will not be disappointed:

A Two-Week Overview of Colombia

• Bogota: 2 days
• Cartagena: 3 days
• Santa Marta/Tayrona: 2 days
• Medellin: 3 days
• Jardin: 1 day
• Salento: 3 days

Now let’s dive into each city a bit more!

First Up: Bogota

Bogota is the capital of Colombia and is by far the biggest city in the country. With over 7 million people in the city and 13 million in the metro area, it can be quite overwhelming at first. But don’t let that stop you, there is so much to see and do!

Start your trip by getting acclimated to the altitude. Bogota sits at 8,660 feet (2,640 meters) above sea level, so I recommend spending a day or two here before heading anywhere else. This will help you avoid any altitude sickness. Also, I can’t say this enough: drink water! This is one of the most important things you can do at high altitudes, especially if you plan on doing any physical activity.

Day 1: Downtown and Candelaria

Today, we are going to be exactly what we are… tourists! Grab your camera and get ready to walk around and explore. I love the concept of free walking tours and have jumped on them in places as far reaching as Latvia and South Africa. So when I arrived in Colombia, I already knew this would be a great way to gain an introduction to Bogota from a knowledgeable, passionate local. And that’s exactly what I got!

I joined this free walking tour , which starts at 10 a.m. and lasts for three hours. Yep, three hours . You’re going to cover a lot of ground! You’ll need to tip the guide at the end — don’t forget this part — but this is still one of the best ways to make sure you see all of the main sights and gain a feel for the city. Plus, the guides always know the best places to eat, so make sure you ask for a recommendation once the tour finishes up.

The tour will take you around Downtown Bogota, which is where you will find most of the historical sites and government buildings. In particular, you’ll get to explore Plaza Bolivar, which is the largest square in Bogota, and named after Simon Bolivar, who liberated much of South America from Spanish rule. Here, you’ll also find the Palacio de Justicia: the Supreme Court building that was bombed in 1985 by Pablo Escobar in an effort to destroy any evidence against him. Spoiler alert: this did not work.

You will also see the Catedral Primada, the main cathedral of Bogota which was built in the early 1800s, and the Casa de Nariño, the presidential palace where you can take a picture with one of the guards (they are used to it).

After exploring downtown, head to Candelaria, which is the old city center. This is a great place to grab lunch and do some people watching. I recommend going to La Puerta Falsa. It is one of the oldest restaurants in Bogota and is known for its soup. They have a variety of dishes to choose from but the chicken and potato soup is my personal favorite.

After lunch, walk around and explore Candelaria. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-style buildings that are now home to museums, restaurants, and bars. Be sure to stop by the Botero Museum which houses over 80 works of art by Fernando Botero, one of Colombia’s most famous artists. His work is instantly recognizable by the exaggerated figures that he often portrays.

End your day with a drink at one of the many rooftop bars. My personal favorite is Andres Carne de Res. It is a bit out of the city center but well worth the trip. The food is delicious and the views are even better.

Day 2: Monserrate and Chapinero

Start your day early with a trip to Monserrate. This is a mountain that overlooks the city and can be reached by either taking the funicular or hiking up. I recommend taking the funicular up and hiking down for the best views. Once you reach the top, there are plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating where you can enjoy the views.

Just as a precaution, keep in mind that even though Colombia is a much safer country than it was 20 years ago, pickpocketing is still common in tourist areas. So be sure to keep your belongings close to you and don’t flash any valuables around. This area can be quite dangerous so I recommend taking an uber or going with a group of people.

After lunch, head to Chapinero one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Bogota. This is where you will find all the best shopping, nightlife, and restaurants. Start your afternoon with some shopping at Zona T. This is an outdoor mall with stores like Zara and H&M.

Grab some dinner at one of the many restaurants in Chapinero. I recommend El Chato which is a great place for Colombian food.

Now, you didn’t think the day was over yet, did you? Bogota was definitely my favorite city in Colombia to dance the night away. Zone T is insane for nightlife, with clubs like Hotel V, Gringo Tuesdays a Vintrash, and Theatron, you are destined to have a great time. Clubbing here doesn’t start until midnight so make sure you have plenty of energy to last all night long!

Where to stay in Bogota

Sonesta Hotel Bogota : This hotel is the perfect location if you want to be in the heart of all the action. It is close to all the best bars, clubs, and restaurants. The staff are so friendly and helpful when it comes to arranging your days in Bogota.

We are off to our next destination. Catch a quick flight from Bogota to Cartagena, which is about an hour and a half. Get an earlier flight to make the most of your time in Cartagena.

Flights inland run about $50 USD making it affordable to travel between cities.

Cartagena is a beautiful colonial city located on the Caribbean coast. You will discover a completely different vibe in this city. The streets are lined with colorful painted buildings and there are flowers everywhere you look.

Day 3: Sunset Cruise in Cartagena

The airport is only about a 25 minute drive, so in no time you will be checked in and walking around the old city. I think the best way to get to know a place is by wandering the streets, so explore a little. Find the nooks and crannies that make the city unique.

Make sure to stop by Plaza Bolivar, which is the main square in Cartagena. This is a great place to people watch and soak up the atmosphere of the city.

Heading into the evening, take a sunset cruise around the city. This is a great way to see Cartagena from the water and it is the best way to see the sun going down. I chose this particular cruise , as it has an open bar, making it all the more fun. You can check availability and book the cruise using the widget below:

After the cruise, have dinner at one of the many restaurants in the old city. I recommend La Vitrola, a lively restaurant with some Cuban flair. They have an excellent mojito and the food is delicious.

To keep with the Cuban theme. End your night dancing the night away at Cafe Havana, one of the most popular clubs in Cartagena. This is a great place to listen to live music and dance all night long.

Day 4: The Walled City

The same as in Bogota, Free walking tours are the best way to explore a new city. Many companies offer these types of tours, which can often be booked online in advance.

A tour of the Walled City is a must-do when visiting Cartagena. You’ll get to explore all the main attractions within the colonial center, including Plaza Bolivar and San Felipe de Barajas Castle. The old town is quite small, but packed with history and culture. You’ll be able to see everything in just a few hours.

While Cartagena is a beautiful city with plenty to offer tourists, be prepared for vendors who may haggle and harass you on the streets. Don’t let this stop you from enjoying all that the city has to see just don’t be surprised by it.

If you’re looking to escape the typical tourist traps, check out the Getsemani neighborhood for some cool bars and cafes. Not to mention, being right on the coast means that the seafood here is guaranteed to be amazing and fresh.

There are plenty of great places to eat in Cartagena, but my two favorite ways to fill my belly are by checking out the local spots for a quick and cheap menu del dia. I’m talking about a three-dollar lunch! Or heading to La Cevicheria for some of the freshest seafood in town.

Day 5: Rosario Islands

Today is all about some fun in the sun! I mean, we are in the Caribbean after all. We are going to take a boat tour of the Rosario Islands, which are a group of about 30 islands located just off the coast of Cartagena. These islands are famous for their crystal clear water, white sand beaches, and coral reefs making them perfect for snorkeling.

This epic boat tour will pick you up from your hotel in the morning and take you to the Rosario Islands — and guys, it was soooo much fun! Once there, you’ll be able to spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The tour includes all gear, so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything with you. Book in advance, though, as it does sell out regularly. Availability can be checked below:

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of other activities to do on the islands as well. You can go kayaking, windsurfing, or parasailing. Or if you want to relax, you can get a massage on the beach.

In the evening, the boat will take you back to Cartagena where you can enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants and bars in the old city.

Where to Stay in Cartagena

For the perfect Cartagena experience, stay in my favorite hotel situated in the old town. The lovely colonial-style architecture combined with modern amenities will make your time here unforgettable. To beat the heat, take a dip in the pool or enjoy a cup of coffee on your private balcony.

Day 6: Head to Santa Marta

Enjoy a slow morning in Cartagena before your 4 hour ride to Santa Marta, which is located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. This is a much smaller and quieter city than Cartagena, but it still has plenty to offer visitors.

Today is just traveling and getting rested for Tayrona national park. Once you are in Santa Marta you can enjoy the beach, eat some yummy seafood and enjoy the sunset before your big day tomorrow.

Day 7: Tayrona National Park

Today we are going to take a day trip from Santa Marta to the gorgeous Tayrona National Park. This is an ancient city that was once home to the Tayrona people. There are ruins located within Tayrona National Park, which is a stunning piece of nature with rainforests, mountains, and beaches.

You can either hire a tour guide or do it yourself. I recommend just grabbing a taxi and heading out to explore yourself. Once inside the park, you will be able to hike, explore and enjoy the most beautiful beaches Colombia has to offer.

The first beach is about a 2 hour hike from the entrance, but along the way you will see monkeys, lizards, and birds.

Once you make it to the crystal clear beaches you can spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and just relaxing. If you want to explore more of the park, there are plenty of hiking trails to keep you busy. Just make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen as it can get quite hot.

In the evening, head back to Santa Marta for dinner and drinks. This is a long day, but it’s definitely worth it to see one of Colombia’s most amazing sites.

Where to Stay in Santa Marta

Enjoy this adults-only hotel in Santa Marta . I loved that I could just relax by the pool while watching the sunset. It is truly the perfect escape on the Caribbean coast.

Day 8: Off to Medellin and visiting Comuna 13

After breakfast, we’ll take a short flight to the city of Medellin. This is Colombia’s second largest city and it’s famous for its beautiful weather, crazy history and its vibrant nightlife.

There is plenty to do in Medellin, but some of my favorite things are exploring the many parks, going out to eat at delicious restaurants, and checking out the clubs and bars. So get ready for a busy time over the next three days.

In the afternoon we are going to explore what was considered the most dangerous neighborhood in the world. Comuna 13, this neighborhood was once controlled by gangs and cartels, but it has been completely transformed in recent years.

You can take a tour of Comuna 13, which will take you through the different graffiti art, staircases, and community projects that have helped to turn this neighborhood around. It is now one of the most vibrant and colorful places in Medellin.

I recommend booking with Zippy tours as you are guaranteed a tour guide that is from Comuna 13 and can give you an insider’s perspective of the area. They offer a free walking tour that is tip-based, so you can give what you feel it is worth at the end.

In my opinion, this is a cannot-miss activity if you’re ever in Medellin!

After the tour, you can grab some lunch or a drink in one of the many cafes and restaurants in Comuna 13. This is a great way to support the local community. Right now you might be thinking, “you mean I can stay and eat there, it’s safe?” and the answer is yes! Comuna 13 is safe and it has been completely transformed.

In the evening, head back to Medellin for dinner and drinks in the Poblado district. This is one of the most popular areas in Medellin for nightlife with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained.

Day 9: Exploring more of downtown Medellin

Wake up bright and early as we have another free walking tour today. This time we are going to explore downtown Medellin and learn about the city’s history. I took this tour and loved it.

You’ll learn about how Medellin was once the most dangerous city in the world, controlled by gangs and cartels. But in recent years it has been transformed into a thriving metropolis with plenty to offer visitors.

I am sure you have seen Narcos on Netflix, but it is fascinating to learn about how much Medellin has changed and the people that have made it happen. You will learn how Pablo Escobar affected the city and how it is slowly recovering from its dark past. I find it amazing that they have been able to turn the city around and make it a safe place to live and visit.

The tour will take you to some of the most popular sights in Medellin including Plaza Botero, where you can see some of Fernando Botero’s famous sculptures. You will also visit the Museum of Antioquia, which has an incredible collection of Colombian art.

After the tour, you can grab lunch in one of the many restaurants in downtown Medellin. I recommend trying some of the local dishes as they are delicious!

In the afternoon, we are going to take a cable car up to Parque Arvi. This is a large park on the outskirts of Medellin where you can hike, zip-line, and enjoy the stunning views.

After a busy day of exploring, we are going to relax in one of Medellin’s many rooftop bars. These are the perfect places to watch the sunset with a drink in hand. Envy rooftop bar is a fan favorite and I recommend trying some of the local beers or cocktails as they are delicious!

Day 10: A day trip to Guatape

Today we are going to take a day trip to the nearby town of Guatape. This is a beautiful colonial town with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. It is also home to the massive El Peñol rock, which you can climb for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The drive from Medellin to Guatape takes about two hours, so I recommend getting an early start. Once you arrive in Guatape, you will take a boat tour of the nearby lakes. This is a great way to see the area and learn about the local history.

After the boat tour, grab lunch in one of the many restaurants in Guatape. I recommend trying the local dish, arepas con queso, as they are delicious!

In the afternoon, we are going to visit La Piedra Del Peñol, which is a large stone that you can climb for more incredible views. you will have the option to climb El Peñol rock. This is a challenging hike but the views from the top are worth it! You can see for miles in every direction. It’s a popular spot for sunset, so I recommend getting there early to secure a spot.

After enjoying the sunset, we are going to head back to Medellin to get a good night’s rest before our last two stops in Colombia!

Where to stay in Medellin

My favorite place to stay in Medellin is this hotel , as you can be amongst all the action while still feeling safe. You will love how walkable all the bars and restaurants are from the hotel. El Poblado is the most touristic and safest area in Medellin.

Day 11: Jardin

On our way to our last stop, we are going to visit the cute town of Jardin. This is a small town located in the Antioquia region of Colombia. It is known for its colorful houses and flowers, which line the streets.

This town is still a little bit off the tourist radar, so it is a great place to get a taste of true Colombian culture. It is also the perfect way to relax and recharge after the non-stop movement of the past week.

I recommend walking around and exploring the town, popping into the local shops, and grabbing lunch at one of the many restaurants. You will see many Colombians playing chess and drinking coffee in the town square, so make sure to join in on the fun!

If you are feeling adventurous you can go exploring and discover one of the nearby waterfalls. This is a great way to cool off on a hot day! 

Where to stay in Jardin

This hotel is a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of Jardin and have all the amenities of a hotel. The staff is incredibly helpful and will make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. The rooms are spacious and clean, and the breakfast is delicious!

Day 12: Salento

The last stop on our two weeks in Colombia trip is the town of Salento. This is a small town located in the Colombian coffee region. It is surrounded by mountains and coffee plantations, making it a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature.

This was one of my favorite places in Colombia.

Once you arrive from Jardin, I recommend taking a walk around town and exploring the many colorful streets. Make sure to try some of the local coffee as it is some of the best in the world!

In the afternoon, we are going to visit one of the nearby coffee plantations, by jumping on this tour . Here you will learn about how coffee is grown and harvested. You will also have the opportunity to try some of the different coffees they produce.

After the plantation tour, you can grab a delicious dinner in town and then head over to one of two bars in the city to try your hand at the famous Colombian game of Tejo.

Tejo is like a more fun game of horseshoes … or at least louder. You will throw a heavy bag at a target filled with gunpowder. When the bag hits the target it explodes, making a loud noise. This is a popular game in Colombia and is a lot of fun to watch (and play)! So grab a few beers and enjoy the evening!

After a fun night out, we are going to head back to our hotel for some sleep as we have our final outing tomorrow!

Day 13: Valle de Cocora

A day to remember and maybe my favorite thing I did in Colombia. We are going to head to the Valle del Cocora to see the tallest palm trees in the world.

This national park in Salento is a must-see when in Colombia.

We are going to hike through the national park and enjoy the incredible views. This is a moderate hike but is doable for most people. The full hike takes anywhere from four to six hours. I recommend starting around 8 or 9 AM so you can avoid the heat of the day.

You will see horses, cows, and literally the largest palm trees you have ever seen. It is incredible. Salento is a part of a cloud forest, so you will notice the temperature is a bit cooler than other parts of Colombia and sometimes the palms can be a bit hidden. But as quickly as the clouds appear, they will disappear and you will have some of the most incredible views.

After the hike, you can grab lunch in town at one of the famous menu del dia spots. My personal favorite is at El Rincon De Lucy. You will get an incredible two-course meal with a juice for only COP $13,000. (about $2.50 USD).

Spend the afternoon resting and sipping on some of the region’s best coffee at Cafe Jesus Martin or one of the other local cafes as you reminisce on the last two weeks of travel in Colombia.

Where to Stay in Salento

Beautiful views of the mountains and garden. This hotel is perfect for those who want to relax after a day of exploring. Located in the heart of Salento, you are just a short walk from all the best restaurants and cafes. The owners are so kind and will greet you with a yummy cup of fresh Colombian coffee. A true gem in my Colombian travels.

Day 14: Traveling Home

Depending on where you are flying out of, you can catch a flight from Salento to either Bogota or Medellin.

Both flights will be about an hour long and will get you to the airport with plenty of time to catch your flight home. And hey, if you land yourself with an evening flight, you can leave your bags at the airport and head out for one final day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

I can never seem to get enough of this inspiring country and I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of what Colombia has to offer and how to spend two weeks in Colombia.

It doesn’t matter if you love the bustling city life or prefer to find a more relaxed pace in a smaller town, Colombia has it all. From the colonial streets of Cartagena, to the coffee plantations of Salento, to the lost city of Ciudad Perdida — there is something for everyone in this incredible country.

I hope you enjoy this country as much as I do and discover your own Colombian adventure!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Colombia Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 Weeks in Colombia

Mark Stewart January 4, 2022 Destinations 7 Comments

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So you’re planning a trip to Colombia. First off, congratulations, you’ve made a great decision. There are few countries we’ve ever visited that offer such outstanding diversity and beauty. From idyllic Caribbean beaches and colourful villages strewn about Andean jungles, to cities overcoming their tragic past. Our Colombia travel itinerary will touch a little of everything that makes this country so amazing.

How to Use this Colombia Itinerary:

This Colombia travel itinerary builds on itself depending on how long you want to visit.

For one week in Colombia, simply use the first section. For a two-week Colombia trip, combine the first and second. Do the same for the three week in Colombia but visit every location in this article.

How Long is Your Trip?

• One Week in Colombia
• Two Weeks in Colombia
• Three Weeks in Colombia

Colombia One Week Itinerary

2 Days in Cartagena, Colombia

Start your trip in the colourful coastal city of Cartagena.

Join a free walking tour and explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town. Take in the colonial architecture and old fortifications while sipping a strong local coffee, or practice your moves with salsa lessons from Cafe Havana.

Head over to Getsemani, the hip, backpacker district. Wander the alleyways in search of funky shops and small cafes. Sample grilled meats and fried arepas from street vendors while surveying wonderful works of street art.

Watch the sunset over the modern skyline across the harbour from a restaurant patio before finishing the night at one of the lively bars.

The following day, take a tour to one of the postcard-perfect beaches nearby. Playa Blanca is a popular spot. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the sand before heading back to the city for another great evening.

The first thing the next morning, head to the airport for a quick flight into Medellin!

Find your stay in Cartagena on Booking.com

Medellin – Days 3 & 4

Once you’ve settled in and dropped your bags off, it’s time to dig into this incredible city.

Trying to explore a city like Medellin in such a short window would be very tricky. Your best option here is to sign up for one of the phenomenal free walking tours.

Tours in Medellin, Colombia

Real City Tours offers a great option that takes you through the heart of Medellin and explains the vibrant and tragic history of the city. O ne of the best tours is this one through Comuna 13, the vibrant neighbourhood that was once one of the most dangerous on the planet.

Following the tour, enjoy one of the many great activities Medellin has to offer. If you can only fit in one activity during your time in Medellin, we highly suggest playing Tejo. I mean, what’s more fun than drinking beer and blowing things up?

Day Trip to Guatape – Day 5

Wake up early and make your way to the bus station for a day trip to what is possibly the most colourful city of all time. Just two hours by bus from the city, Guatape is a must-do while in Colombia. Climb the 700 stairs to the top of El Penol and get a 360-degree view of spectacular beauty.

You can either head back to Medellín now for some more fun in the city, or stay the night in Guatape. All that matters is that you’re back in Medellín to catch a bus the next morning.

Find your stay in Guatape on Booking.com

Salento – Day 6

From Medellín, you’ll be spending the next several hours twisting through the Andes and some of the most verdant landscapes in the country. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the town of Salento, in the heart of coffee country.

Do some shopping or people watching while taking in the afternoon sun and drinking some of the best coffee on earth. Enjoy bandeja Paisa – the quintessential Colombian meal – at one of the best restaurants in Salento . And if you’re really lucky, take part in the occasional festivities in the town square.

On day two, visit the towering wax palms of the Cocorra Valley. Either take the back route in, roughly an hour round-trip, to the famous palms themselves; or take on the full seven-hour trek loop. If you decide on the shorter version, or perhaps you’re not one for hiking, visit a coffee plantation and experience the life cycle of this beloved beverage.

Now it’s time to leave the countryside and journey make your way to Bogota , Colombia’s capital.

Use Booking.com to find your stay in Salento!

Bogota – Day 7

The final stop in our 1 week Colombia itinerary is in the buzzing, mountain city of Bogota. When arriving at the bus station in the morning, sit down for a steaming bowl of soup or a bunuello and coffee. Depending on your luggage situation, you can choose to rent a locker at the bus station.

Note: don’t flag down a taxi on the streets of Bogota. Always use Uber or the designated booth at the bus station.

For planning your day, we have a separate guide for quick visits to Bogota, highlighting some of our favourite things.

Wherever you’re off to from here, whether it’s home or another adventure; enjoy!

Find your stay in Bogot a on Booking.com

Colombia Itinerary – 2 Weeks

Santa Marta and Around – 3 Nights

The port city of Santa Marta might not be the prettiest in Colombia, but that isn’t why you’re coming. It’s what lies outside the town itself that makes this one of the highlights of the country.

Fly into Santa Marta (Day 1) and spend a few hours checking out the shops of the old town. Visit the street stalls and sample some amazing Colombian street food like reganonas.

Camp in Tayrona National Park – Day 2

Prepare yourself for some of the most stunning and beautiful beaches in Colombia at Tayrona National Park.

Rise early and grab a taxi or local bus to the entrance of the park. From here, either enjoy a 2 to 3-hour hike – or horse ride – through the spectacular scenery to the main beach of Cabo San Juan. There’s a great campground here where you can spend the night. Another nice campground is at Playa Arrecifes.

Spend the afternoon exploring the rest of the park, relaxing on the beautiful beaches and swimming in the impossibly clear water.

After spending the night either in a rented tent or in a hammock under the stars make your way back to Santa Marta.

Mountain Town of Minca, Colombia – Day 3

Grab another bus now and venture high into the Sierra Nevada mountains, to the village of Minca, an hour outside Santa Marta. Minca is a quiet, laid-back town with a bohemian vibe.

Follow the road north of town to the jungle swimming holes of pozo azúl and take cooling refuge from the sweltering air. Stop at one of the restaurants along the route or pick up some snacks from the vendors on the trail near the pools.

Choose either to stay in Minca, perhaps at one of the eco-hostels near town, or head back to Santa Marta for the night.

In the morning, take the bus from Santa Marta to Cartagena further down the coast, where you’ll spend Days 4 and 5 (based on the 1-week itinerary above ).

Medellín and Guatape – Days 6 & 7

With the 2 week itinerary, you’re given one full extra day and night in Medellin. This is the perfect opportunity to take in both of the tours you would have sacrificed in the shorter visit.

Another great option, though you’ve got many, is to hit up Dragonfly for a soaring paragliding experience.

If you prefer the laid-back vibes of Guatape, (Day 8) you can easily spend your extra time extending your day trip. As long as you’re back in Medellín the next morning to catch the bus to Jardin!

Find your stay in Medellin on Booking.com

Jardin – Days 9 & 10

Our favourite of the coffee-country towns in Colombia is Jardin, but the views along the ride from Medellín is worth the visit alone. Nestled in a stunning Andean valley, Jardin is the perfect spot to wind down a little from the chaos of the big city.

Hike up through surrounding hills and enjoy the views, sipping on a beer or two while building up the courage to ride the old Jardin cable car . Go fishing for your lunch and enjoy some incredible local mountain trout or visit the hidden waterfalls near town.

Following your second night relaxing in Jardin, it’s time to take one of the most exciting bus journeys in the country, as you make your way south to Salento.

Check Booking.com to find you accommodation in Jardin!

Salento – Days 11 & 12

Same as the 1-week itinerary .

Bogota – Days 13 & 14

A full extra day in Bogota can make a huge difference in your experience. The graffiti tour is one of the best we’ve ever encountered, and I highly recommend it.

Also, if you haven’t yet had your fill of tasty Colombian cuisine, you’ll find everything in Bogota.

If you’ve got even more time available, get a few additional suggestions for your Colombia itinerary below!

3 Weeks in Colombia

For those of you looking for a 3 week Colombia itinerary, here are a few suggestions to add to the 2-week plan above.

Scuba Diving in Colombia

If you’re one for underwater exploration, Santa Marta has some of the best and cheapest Scuba diving in Colombia. Specifically from the town of Tanganga, just north of the city.

There are several reputable dive shops scattered throughout Santa Marta and Tanganga that offer day trips. Many of these shops even offer great courses, from open-water to dive master, at much lower prices than anywhere else in the country.

The Lost City Trek

This one will eat up most of your third week alone, but is one of the most exciting things to do in Colombia.

Trek through the Sierra Nevada mountains near Santa Marta, to ancient city ruins, hidden deep in the jungle. 4, 5, and 6 day options are available, depending on time, budget and fitness level.

Book your Lost City Trek tour here.

Explore the Remote Coastal Desert of Punta Gallinas

Visit the northernmost tip of South America at Punta Gallinas. Drive through dune fields and a wasteland of dried lake beds through remote communities cut off from the rest of the country. Eat incredible fresh seafood, swim in bioluminescent coves and disconnect from the world.

Go Island Hopping & Stay at a Floating Hostel

While in Cartagena, spend a few extra days visiting the rest of the beaches nearby; or take visit the Rosario Islands and swim in a bioluminescent cove.

Spend a few nights at Casa en el Agua , a gorgeous eco-hostel built out in the sea several kilometres from shore!

Visit More of Coffee Country

On your way through coffee country from Medellin, consider adding a stop in Jerico before Jardin. Or if you enjoy your time kicking back in chilled-out Jardin, spend an extra day or two before heading farther south.

When you head down towards Salento, stop over in Filandia, another beautiful town only 45 minutes away.

Do What You Want!

Maybe you want to change things up even more. We’ve put together a complete guide to Colombia that can help you with even more options if you find the time.

Just try to remember, you’re never going to see everything a destination has to offer. Not in one shot anyway. If you’re tight on time, don’t worry about forcing more activities in, you won’t enjoy yourself – and that’s the whole reason you’re going, right?

More Colombia

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About the Author

Mark Stewart

Mark is a multi-passionate creative with a fascination for getting the most out of the human experience. While he isn't chasing adventures around the globe as a travel journalist and photographer, he works as a freelance writer, private chef and web developer.

i’ve never been to Colombia but I have to say it looks incredible. Very colourful and green, it also looks like It wasn’t overcrowded by tourist !

Thank you for a very detali itinerary. And your pictures are stunning. I would love to save this post for my future trip😀

Colombia looks wonderful! I love the the small towns, palm trees, beaches, and your itinerary for island hopping. Definitely a place I would like to check out someday.

Love this breakdown! We would love to climb the 700 stairs to the top of El Penol and enjoy the panoramic views of the city!

It is such a gorgeous view from the top!

Wow this is absolutely stunning. I love the natural beauty of Columbia

It is such a gorgeous place to check out! Thanks for reading!

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Colombia travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: May 6, 2024 11:23 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, colombia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Colombia due to high levels of crime.

Border areas - Avoid all travel

• Caquetá, excluding the city of Florencia
• Cauca, excluding the city of Popayan
• Chocó, excluding the towns of Nuquí, Bahía Solano and Capurganá
• within 50 km of the border with Venezuela, excluding the city of Cúcuta
• within 100 km of the border with Panama
• within 50 km of the border with Ecuador, excluding the border crossing at Ipiales
• Norte de Santander, excluding the city of Cúcuta
• the Port of Tumaco and the city of Buenaventura

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Antioquia, north of the city of Buriticá, west of highway 62 and west of highway 60 along the borders with Choco, Risaralda and Caldas departments, excluding the cities of Jardín, Andes and Hispania
• Córdoba, south and west of the city of Montería
• Guainía
• City of Cúcuta
• Meta, excluding the city of Villavicencio and Caño Cristales
• Nariño, excluding the cities of Pasto and Ipiales
• Valle del Cauca, excluding the cities of Buga, Cali and Palmira
• Vaupés

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Movement restrictions for minors in Medellin

On January 31, 2024, local authorities issued restrictions on the movements of minors under the age of 18 in certain areas of Medellin where they are at a high risk for sexual exploitation. These restrictions will remain in place until July 31, 2024. Minors are not allowed in certain areas every day between 7 pm and 5 am unless they are accompanied by their parents or legal guardians and carry proper identification.

These areas include:

• El Poblado, including Parque Lleras
• parts of Corredor vial de la 33
• La Candelaria, including:
• Plaza de Botero
• Parroquia de la Veracruz
• parts of Corredor de la 70

If you are travelling with a minor in Medellin:

• ensure that they carry proper identification and a photocopy of their passport
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Decree restricting the movement of minors in high-risk zones – Mayor's office of Medellin (in Spanish)

Crime rates are high throughout the country, particularly in the main cities. In some cases, extreme violence leading to death has occurred.

Violent crime

Muggings and assaults occur even in the safer areas of Colombia’s cities. These incidents can turn violent. Firearms and other weapons are common in Colombia. Armed robberies are frequent and may occur on streets, in buses, taxis, restaurants and shopping malls. Criminals won’t hesitate to use weapons on victims who refuse to co-operate.

• Avoid walking alone in isolated or deserted areas
• Avoid travelling alone after dark
• Dress down and avoid wearing jewellery or watches
• Keep cell phones, cameras and other electronic equipment out of sight
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use ATMs inside banks, shopping malls and other public locations during business hours only
• If you're robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse and cell phone snatching, is common in all parts of the country. Drive-by snatching by thieves on motorcycles occurs regularly. They occur in both impoverished and wealthier parts of the country.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Stay in reputable accommodations with good security
• Keep windows and doors locked at all times

There is a risk of kidnapping for ransom in Colombia.

Armed groups may target foreigners in all parts of the country, especially those who work for oil and mining companies. Business travellers and Canadian companies establishing operations in Colombia should take enhanced security measures to protect both personnel and company assets.

Choose living accommodations that have significant security measures in place and modern office facilities.

Express kidnappings

“Express kidnappings” are frequent and often occur in affluent areas, as well as in tourist areas. In this scenario, criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

Illegal armed groups

Illegal armed groups pose a major risk to travellers. These groups carry out violent attacks, such as bombings, and finance themselves through extortions and kidnappings. Attacks often result in casualties.

• Remain on well-travelled roads and paths when visiting remote locations
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times

There is a threat of domestic terrorism. Terrorist groups are active in some parts of the country. Attacks occur periodically.

Further attacks are likely. Targets may include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• military and police installations and vehicles
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• infrastructure, including energy facilities
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

• Avoid unattended packages or parcel and bring these to the attention of police or security personnel
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for the latest updates

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Card overcharging also happens, especially in popular tourist areas, where scammers target tourists by charging them elevated prices for services, food and drink.

Ask for a printed price list before ordering.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Fraudulent police officers

Thieves posing as police officers have approached foreigners to verify their documents or foreign currency in the intend to rob them.

If you face this situation:

• don’t hand over your money or documents unless you feel threatened
• request to provide your documents or currency at the nearest police station, your hotel or another public place

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and strikes take place regularly throughout Colombia, especially in large cities.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, cigarettes or anything else from new acquaintances or someone in the street. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Scopolamine and other incapacitating drugs

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates unsuspecting victims, who become quickly disoriented and are vulnerable to crime.

Thieves may put the drug on pamphlets or wares distributed on the street. They may also slip it into food and drinks or blow it into the face of the victim. They often work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security. They then steal the valuables once the victim has been incapacitated. Dating applications and websites are often used by criminals to identify and lure foreigners travelling alone and looking to meet local people.

Incidents occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis
• on the street

Ayahuasca ceremonies

Spiritual cleansing and ayahuasca ceremonies, offered by shamans and other individuals, have led to serious illness, injury, assault and even the deaths of several tourists.

Ceremonies involve consuming substances that can cause medical complications and severely impair cognitive and physical abilities. They often take place in remote areas with no access to medical or mental health facilities or resources. Often, there is no access to communications with local authorities or emergency services. Facilities generally lack basic first aid or emergency plans to help those suffering from physical or psychological illness during these ceremonies.

Ayahuasca ceremonies are not regulated and individuals offering them are not licensed. There is no way to assess the safety of any of the services, the operators or the shamans.

Avoid participating in spiritual cleansing or ayahuasca ceremonies.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault, including rape, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas.

• Avoid travelling alone, especially after dark
• Stay in accommodations with good security
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations
• Avoid hospitality exchange arrangements, such as shared accommodations

If you are a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the police and the nearest Canadian office.

Advice for women travellers

Boat accidents have occurred due to unlicensed tour boats not meeting safety standards, including in Cartagena, Santa Marta and San Andrés.

• Choose a reputable boating company
• Ensure that your tour operator follows up-to-date safety regulations
• Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

Water safety abroad

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country, due to:

• road signs that are difficult to see or non-existent
• lack of lighting and guard rails
• livestock grazing on the roadside in rural areas
• pedestrians walking on the street

Road conditions

Driving conditions may be particularly hazardous during the rainy seasons, from April to May and from October to November.

Road habits

Drivers are extremely aggressive and reckless. They often drive at excessive speeds, are frequently distracted and ignore traffic controls.

Motorcycles are common and are often involved in traffic accidents.

Pedestrians don’t have the right of way, including at stop signs.

When travelling by car in Colombia:

• avoid driving at night
• avoid driving on secondary roads as they are often targeted by criminals
• don’t pick up hitchhikers
• keep your doors locked and windows closed at all times
• always place all belongings under your seat
• carry a cell phone
• park your car in a guarded parking lot when in a city

Local authorities may deny you entry to certain areas due to emerging security threats. Military checkpoints outside cities are common.

Strikes occur often in Colombia and associated roadblocks on major transit routes may cause significant travel disruptions.

Unauthorized roadblocks and bandits also pose a threat.

If you’re planning to travel by land in Colombia:

• dial 767 from your cell phone to receive advice on current road closures from the Colombian Highway Police information line (in Spanish)
• never hitchhike
• consult local media

Public transportation

Public transportation isn’t safe in Colombia. You should avoid using it.

City and rural buses are frequent targets for theft. Armed groups frequently stop and rob rural buses.

If you must take an overnight bus, keep your belongings close to you, not on the floor or in storage compartments, as they could be stolen while you sleep.

Express kidnappings and assaults often occur in unlicensed taxis.

• Use only reputable taxi companies through establishments such as hotels or ride-hailing apps

If you have no choice but to hail a taxi on the street:

• avoid cabs without licence plates
• never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers
• note the licence plate number and name of the driver when you travel and immediately communicate this information to family or friends

El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá allows only authorized taxis to pick up passengers at its terminals. 

Arrange pickup in advance with your travel agency or hotel.

Transportation services  - El Dorado International Airport

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry restrictions at land and river borders with Ecuador

On January 11, 2024, the Government of Ecuador announced new entry restrictions in response to the ongoing state of internal armed conflict.

All foreigners entering Ecuador at crossing points with land or rivers borders with Colombia will need to present a criminal records check from their country of origin or residence. Both the original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members will generally be exempt.

The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024. An apostille is a standard certificate allowing documents to be accepted in all countries where the convention is in effect.

Useful links

• Migration information – Ecuador Immigration Agency (in Spanish)
• Changes to authentication services in Canada
• Apostilles for documents

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Colombian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Colombia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business or work visa: required Student visa: required

Electronic Immigration Form  

You must complete a free electronic immigration form (Check-Mig) within 72 hours to 1 hour before:

• boarding a flight to or from Colombia
• entering into Colombia via land, maritime or river crossings 

You will need the following information to complete the form:

• flight details
• a valid passport
• a valid email address
• the address where you will be staying in Colombia
• a phone number

Electronic Immigration Form  – Colombia Migration Agency

As of November 14, 2023, you must pay an entry fee equivalent to $85 CAD in Colombian Pesos upon arrival in Colombia. You can only pay by credit card. The payment must be made upon entering the country during the immigration control process. There could be significant delays to make the payment, which could disrupt your travel plans.

You don't have to pay this entry tax if:

• your destination is the archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina
• you have a valid Colombian visa
• you are less than 14 years of age or more than 79 years old
• you are a member of the crew of international transport means (conditions apply)
• Entry tax for Canadian travellers starts on Nov 14, 2023 – Migration Colombia (in Spanish)
• Entry tax applicable to Canadian nationals  – Ministry of External Relations of Colombia (in Spanish)

Entry stamp

You must obtain an entry stamp in your passport when you enter Colombia by land.

You may be fined if you fail to obtain an entry stamp

Length of stay for tourists

The immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter Colombia. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay up to 90 days.

You will be fined if you overstay the specified period on your entry stamp. You may apply for a stay extension at the nearest Migración Colombia office. You may extend your stay up to a maximum of 180 days per calendar year. The final decision remains with the immigration authority.

Migración Colombia - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina

If you plan to visit the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina, you must purchase a tourist card at the airport before departure.

You must also show this card before you depart the island.

Drug screening

Colombia employs strict screening measures at its international airports to detect narcotics smuggling.

Customs officials may:

• search you and your luggage
• fingerprint you
• require you to undergo an X-ray inspection upon arrival or departure

Most airport customs inspectors speak only Spanish.

Dual citizenship

Canadian citizens who also hold Colombian citizenship must enter and exit Colombia using the following documents:

• Colombian passport
• Colombian identification card

Although local immigration authorities will allow dual citizens to enter without Colombian documents, they will stamp their foreign passport indicating that they must leave using Colombian documents.

Children and travel

Exit requirements for dual citizen children.

Whether travelling to a domestic or international destination, underage Canadian-Colombian dual citizens must present:

If under 18 and travelling alone or accompanied by a single parent

• an authorization to travel from both parents, written in Spanish and notarized at a local notary public or at a Colombian embassy or consulate abroad; and
• a Colombian birth certificate, notarized at a local notary public, or a long-form Canadian birth certificate and its official Spanish translation

If under 18 and travelling with both parents

• a Colombian birth certificate notarized at a local notary public; or
• a long-form Canadian birth certificate showing the parents' names, and its official Spanish translation.
• Authorization to travel for minors  - Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Spanish)
• Colombian Notaries Directory  - Superintendent of Notaries and Registry (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs  - Government of Colombia (in Spanish)
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited is available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Private clinics offer emergency services. They typically require advance payment in cash or by credit card.

If you don’t have proof of travel insurance, you may be transferred to a public hospital, where medical care may not meet Canadian standards.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have died or had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries in Colombia. 

Before leaving for medical travel:

• make sure you have done your research
• use reputable health-care providers only

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Some prescription medication may not be available in Colombia.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Altitude sickness

Bogotá is located at 2600 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for breaking the law in Colombia can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. No transfer of offenders’ treaty exists between Canada and Colombia. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Colombia. You may also have to remain in Colombia for a parole period following your release.

Detention conditions may be below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• Overview of the criminal law system in Colombia
• Arrest and detention

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common practice among money launderers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It’s illegal to import firearms into Colombia.

Conviction may result in lengthy prison sentences.

Political activities

It’s illegal for foreigners to participate in local political activities, rallies or public demonstrations in Colombia.

Political involvement may result in your deportation.

It’s illegal to export certain cultural artifacts with historical value from Colombia, such as:

• original paintings

Child sex tourism

It's a serious criminal offence to have sex with minors in Colombia.

Conviction may result in a lengthy prison sentence.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Colombian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Colombia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Colombia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Colombia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Colombia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Colombian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Colombia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry photo identification at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa or residence permit in a safe place, in case they’re lost or confiscated

You must carry an international driving permit.

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene 
• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt under Colombian law.

However, some accidents may attract a crowd that could turn hostile. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• leave the area
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

International Driving Permit

The currency in Colombia is the peso (COP).

You can easily exchange U.S. dollars and euros for pesos in banks and currency exchange bureaus.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. In rural areas, ATMs may be limited in availability.

Colombia is subject to various natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, torrential rains, floods and mudslides.

El Niño

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years and can last 9 months to 2 years.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly
• Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans 

Learn about  El Niño

Seismic activity

There are several active and potentially active volcanoes throughout Colombia.

Debris from erupting volcanoes may clog rivers and cause them to overflow, which could in turn cause flash floods and landslides. Ash clouds may also cause disruptions to domestic and international flights.

Earthquakes

Colombia is located in an active seismic area. Earthquakes occur frequently. Dangerous landslides can also occur, even after minor earthquakes.

• Colombian Geological Service  - Colombia’s government (in Spanish)
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Earthquakes - What to Do?

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy seasons

Colombia’s rainy seasons usually occur from March to June and from September to November. Incidents of flooding and mudslides can occur, especially in rural areas.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Local services

For emergency assistance, dial 123.

For non-urgent matters, you can reach the National Police by email at [email protected] .

Consular assistance

Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Venezuela

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Colombia, in Bogotá, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

13 Important Tips For First-Timers Visiting Colombia

• Eat at the hotel for cleanliness and safety.
• Bring enough cash for daily activities, especially in remote areas.
• Learn basic Spanish to navigate the country and communicate effectively.

Visiting Colombia for the first time can be exciting, but just like any destination worldwide, there are some tips one needs to know before visiting. Language, weather, money, and transportation can be quite confusing, especially in Colombia. Still, with these tips, one will be able to avoid a lot of difficult situations in the country. It doesn't matter if you're here for ten days or three; Colombia is a gorgeous country with endless things to experience. Whether it's someone's first time or they need a refresher, you can't go wrong with following these essential tips for traveling to beautiful Colombia!

UPDATE: 2023/11/25 16:36 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Know When Visiting Colombia

This article has been refreshed with new information regarding a trip to beautiful Colombia, as well as expanded talking points for previous suggestions. Remember to stay out of bad neighborhoods at night, bring enough cash for day trips, learn some Spanish, and have plenty of fun!

Eat At The Hotel If You're Worried About Cleanliness

For those coming to Colombia and nervous about food and water cleanliness, it's always a safe bet to eat with your hotel or resort and get water via gift shops inside them. Although most places in bigger Colombian cities are clean and safe, some smaller villages do not abide by strict health and sanitation regulations when preparing or serving food and drinks. To steer clear of food-borne illness, make sure and book restaurants with good reviews and clean kitchens/dining rooms.

• It's generally better to eat at the hotel if you're staying somewhere off the beaten path.

Tayrona National Park is a fun day trip idea for visitors to Colombia.

Make Sure And Keep Some Cash Ready

One thing many visitors to Colombia forget is to bring enough cash for daily activities. Because debit and credit cards are often not accepted or take a large conversion fee, getting cash from the bank or at your hotel may be the better option. Of course, in bigger cities, there will be more accessibility and availability to ATMs and stores taking credit cards, but in remote towns and villages: bring cash.

That said, keep all cash somewhere safe and hard to get to. Pickpocketing is prevalent here, as well as violent assault in poorer areas.

• Because of steep ATM and credit card fees, it's best to bring enough money for everyday food, attractions, and transportation when visiting Colombia.

Learn Some Spanish Words

Colombia is a place where the majority of the population speaks only Spanish. In a place like Bogotá - the capital city , most people only speak Spanish, which means it can be difficult to get around if one only knows English. While one does not necessarily need to know how to speak the language, some basic words will go a long way and help one better get around the country.

• Learning basic Spanish will go a long way when coming to Colombia.

Taxis Are Cheap, But Buses Are Cheaper And Safer

Buses are Colombia's main means of transportation, and they are incredibly cheap and safe. Taxis, on the other hand, are also cheap, but a few inconveniences come with them. First, they can be unsafe, as fake taxi drivers can rob passengers. Apps such as Uber and Easy Taxi are illegal in the country, but they are still in operation and are the safest ways to get taxis.

• Taking the bus is often cheaper and safer than taxis while in Colombia.

Avoid Lonely Areas, Especially At Night

Just like many other amazing destinations worldwide, Colombia experiences increased crime, which is why one must exercise extreme caution when visiting. A good rule is avoiding lonely areas, especially at night. For the first trip, travelers can stick to the popular tourist destinations around the country, which are usually more crowded, to avoid being an easy target.

• Tourists to Colombia are not recommended to venture out into lonely/quiet areas at night.

Avoid Unnecessary Display Of Wealth

Showing unnecessary displays of wealth, especially in a country like Colombia, may be dangerous. The country's economy is bad, which has made many people living there desperate. It is advisable to avoid putting on too many accessories or carrying large amounts of money around to avoid drawing too much attention to oneself.

• Wearing fancy clothes, jewelry, or other accessories in Colombia can get you into trouble at night or in certain areas.

Prepare An Itinerary To Follow Before Visiting

Colombia is very big and endowed with plenty of natural and man-made attractions, which means there are plenty of things to see and do here. Without a proper itinerary of what to do in the country, one can find it difficult to get the most out of their visit. During the planning process, make a list of things to do in the country and follow that itinerary when in the country. There will be more to do, but it is better to have a plan rather than randomly deciding what to do.

• Planning before you come here can help ease frustration due to Colombia's vast offerings.

Related: 10 Best Places To Visit In Colombia

The Weather Can Be Unpredictable, So Come Prepared

Colombia experiences two major seasons, which are rainy and dry. But the weather is not usually not dependent on the time of the year but on elevation. The weather can easily change from sunny to rainy in some parts of the country with higher elevations, like Bogotá. The temperature is also known to sometimes rise from as low as 4 degrees Celsius to 19 degrees Celsius on some days. Some parts of the country, such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, experience lots of sunshine all year round. This means at any time of the year; one can experience all four seasons in Colombia. With such diverse and unpredictable weather, one has to come prepared to face any type of weather in this country.

• The weather is unpredictable in Colombia, with wild changes in temperature being common.

Never Talk About Drugs, Especially Cocaine

One important thing to always avoid doing in Colombia is talking about drugs. Drug production and trafficking continue to increase in this country, and drug is always accompanied by crime. This makes it not just a national issue but a global issue for which Colombia plays a major role as it is one of the major producers of cocaine in the world. In 2021, the production of coca leaves which is the main ingredient for cocaine, increased drastically. To avoid getting into a difficult situation, pretend not to know anything about drugs in Colombia and instead focus on enjoying the amazing things the country has to offer.

• Joking or discussing cocaine can and will get you in trouble with law enforcement in Colombia.

Haggle Before Buying Something

The asking price of a product in Colombia may not always be the actual price but just the seller trying to get more profit from tourists who may not know the price. To avoid getting ripped by sellers (who always know a gringo when they see one), employ the skill of bargaining when purchasing something. Buying something $5 less than the initial asking price is not uncommon.

• It's worth it to try and bargain with vendors while shopping in Colombia.

Altitude Sickness Is Real In Colombia

In Colombia, like many parts of South America, high altitude is something that one often has to worry about as the country is filled with many mountains. Bogota, the country’s capital, rises to an elevation of 8,660 feet , making it one of the highest cities in the world. One important tip to help deal with altitude sickness in Colombia is to always stay hydrated when heading to places with high altitudes. Adventurers seeking to go rock climbing or visit higher places can also include other substances like vitamins and minerals to cushion the effects of the high altitudes. Alcohol, caffeine, and other dehydrating substances should also be avoided when heading to higher elevations.

• Because of the possible 8,660 feet of elevation in Colombia, it's not uncommon for altitude sickness to ravage through groups vacationing to the country.

Related: Tips To Avoid The Altitude Sickness While Traveling In South America

It’s Not Mandatory To Tip

In hotels, bars, restaurants, and other service centers around Colombia, tipping is not usually mandatory or expected, unlike in other countries. Nicer restaurants usually include a 10% service charge automatically on the bill. Of course, if the service was exceptional, it does not hurt to give the service person some extra change. Tipping taxi drivers is also not a thing as passengers are only required to pay the amount on the meter; still, the extra tip is always appreciated. In most cases, tips cost between 2,000 and 5,000 Columbian Pesos, equivalent to a dollar. That's like nothing to most tourists, but the locals in Colombia appreciate it so much.

• Adding a tip (although appreciated) is not required in Colombia.

Be Careful On The Roads

The traffic in Colombia can be chaotic. Drivers here are usually impatient and aggressive and won’t stop for anybody. To avoid getting into a dangerous situation on the road, it is important to be careful on the roads. With dangerous roads and long traffic jams, it will be better to avoid driving in Colombia and just stick to using taxis and buses.

• Driving can be difficult here, especially regarding other impatient and volatile drivers.

I've traveled to over 40 countries around the world. These are the 5 underrated spots everyone should visit.

• I've always loved traveling and have visited over 40 countries around the world.
• Many of my favorite places that I've visited aren't typical tourist spots .
• Of all the countries I've been to, I've loved places like Colombia, Zimbabwe, and Morocco.

I've always loved traveling. In my opinion, there's nothing like waking up in a new country with a sense of excitement about what the day could bring.

Growing up in Australia, my bucket-list travel destinations were usually those you'd see in movies or on postcards — places like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland. And it seems like many tourists have similar travel goals, with spots like Paris and Los Angeles predicted to be two of the most-visited summer vacation destinations in 2024 .

But the more I traveled, the more I realized the countries I've enjoyed most are not necessarily the typical tourist hot spots. After visiting over 40 countries, these five are the underrated gems I recommend visiting.

Colombia offers lush scenery and vibrant architecture.

My husband and I did a three-month backpacking trip through South America in 2012. Beforehand, we were so excited about seeing the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, ticking off Machu Picchu , and checking out Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.

Although we loved all of those places, we were also pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed Colombia, with its warm people, lush scenery, and vibrant architecture.

In Salento, we explored coffee estates and did an amazing hike in Cocora Valley, home to the Quindío wax-palm trees. We couldn't get over how green everything was.

But the colorful city of Cartagena was by far one of the highlights of our South American adventure. We spent countless hours walking the streets, admiring the multicolored colonial facades, and taking in the Caribbean vibes.

Note that the State Department has a Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisory in effect for Colombia, updated as of January. Wherever you travel, it's important to stay up to date on the latest conditions, which often vary even within countries.

We were blown away by the natural scenery in Laos.

When we traveled to Laos, we were blown away by the genuine, kind-hearted people and spectacular natural scenery .

Our favorite place we visited in this Southeast Asian country was Kuang Si Falls, where swimming is permitted in certain parts of the three-tiered, turquoise waterfalls.

Another thing we loved about Laos was the fresh and delicious food. After a day of exploring, we'd head to the local markets for some larb — a meat-based salad flavored with mint leaves, fish sauce, lime juice, and chiles.

Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do.

My husband and I traveled to Malta during a trip to London . The country had always been on my list of places to visit, as my grandfather was stationed there during World War II.

For such a small island nation, Malta packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. For example, the walled capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . We loved wandering its streets and taking in the fortifications, churches, and Baroque architecture.

Visiting the Blue Grotto, which is a series of sea caves, was also breathtaking and a highlight of our trip.

Zimbabwe is home to extraordinary natural beauty.

Zimbabwe is home to some extraordinary natural beauty. One of the most popular attractions is Victoria Falls, the world's largest curtain of falling water. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya , which means "the smoke that thunders."

We ended our day at the falls with drinks at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which overlooks a waterhole. As we enjoyed our cocktails, we watched the African wildlife come in for a drink.

Later, we headed to The Boma for dinner and a drum show. The buffet featured every type of game meat imaginable.

There's so much to see in Morocco.

My husband and I traveled to Morocco with his parents in 2013. Arriving in Marrakesh was a real culture shock for his folks, who were from country Victoria in Australia.

There was so much to see, from the snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square to the donkeys cruising up and down streets.

The highlight of our trip was a tour of a Berber camp in the Sahara Desert, complete with a camel trek. We ate chicken tagine under the stars and chatted with our host about life in the desert. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I'll never forget.

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I’ve been to 31 countries as a solo female. Here’s where I’d recommend

From hiking in nepal to homestays in sri lanka, these are the ultimate trips to go at alone (and my tried-and-tested ideas for how to enjoy them).

I have long been a fan of solo travel. And while women striking out on their own is hardly a new phenomenon — Gertrude Bell, Martha Gelhorn and Dervla Murphy were pioneers in the late 19th to mid-20th centuries — the sheer number of #solotravel posts by women on Instagram suggests it is a growing trend.

Over the past 20 years I’ve visited 60 countries, more than half of them on my own. Travelling alone allows me to shake off the shackles of the person I am at home. I can enjoy long conversations with new people, wander slowly and observe everything, eager to soak in each second of the experience — something I find hard to do when I’m in company.

Many of my most memorable travel moments wouldn’t have happened had I been with a companion. Being invited back to family lodgings for home-cooked meals in Colombia, for example, or chancing upon a shaman ritual at a Bribri village in Costa Rica. Low points have included being groped in India, mugged in Chile and flashed in Cuba and Turkey, but these incidents have done little to deter me.

There is so much goodness and beauty in the world, and the kindness of strangers never fails to move me. There’s nothing more exhilarating than solo travel. My top picks — away from the obvious backpacker trails — are based on the friendliness of the locals, the range of affordable, quality accommodation on offer and ample public transport, to get you further (safely and cheaply).

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Safaris and homestays in sri lanka.

Verdant jungle dotted with bright-white Buddhist stupas, a high concentration of wild leopards and elephants, rugged beaches and picturesque temples — it was an easy decision to extend my two-week trip to Sri Lanka (I’m still here now). I took a high-low approach by staying in cute Airbnbs and well-run homestays — a great way to experience local life and home cooking — so that I could splash out on a special night or two. The highlight of these was a sleepover at Wild Coast Tented Lodge on the edge of Yala National Park, with its exquisite poolside suites that have freestanding copper bathtubs ( all-inclusive doubles from £537; resplendentceylon.com). The rate includes daily game drives into Yala — on one 6am excursion I saw blue-tailed bee-eater birds, tufted grey langurs somersaulting through the jungle, juvenile elephants and three leopards lazing on rocks. Outside the luxe lodgings, women travelling alone should take precautions such as avoiding beach walks after dark, dressing modestly and, if you’re visiting remote archaeological sites, going with a group of fellow travellers. Don’t miss Expertly blended arrack cocktails at the Ropewalk bar in the Unesco world heritage site of Galle Fort (cocktails from £5; instagram.com/ropewalksl). Make it happen Intrepid Travel has an affordable, solo-friendly group tour of Sri Lanka exploring the ruins of Anuradhapura by bike, visiting the Sigiriya rock fortress and beaches of Mirissa and meeting Tamil tea farmers. Fourteen nights’ B&B starts at £1,805pp, including transfers, activities and some extra meals (intrepidtravel.com); fly to Colombo.

Rainforests and beach days in Costa Rica

With its ancient virgin cloud forests, more than 2,500 plant species and pura vida way of life, Costa Rica was one of my most relaxing solo trips and a highlight of 2022. It’s a country in which I felt incredibly safe and if, like me, you adore the natural world, it’s a must-visit. I filled my days cycling along coastal paths to national parks on the border with Panama, hiking through rainforests and relaxing on the paradisaical beaches of the Caribbean coast. Because I met friendly locals and fellow travellers wherever I went — on buses, in bars, on walks — I never once felt lonely. In fact some days I wondered whether I’d get an hour to myself. Don’t miss A few nights at the utterly gorgeous Hotel Aguas Claras near Puerto Viejo, where sloths laze languidly in the trees above ( room-only doubles from £245; hotelaguasclaras.com). Make it happen G Adventures runs group tours to Costa Rica for solos, including some in its new “Geluxe” collection aimed at travellers aged 40 and over. Its nature-focused Tortuguero, La Fortuna & Rio Celeste seven-night itinerary, with extra-comfy places to stay, costs from £2,649pp, including mostly full-board accommodation, tours, excursions and ground transport ( gadventures.com ); fly to San Jose.

Tapas and trains in Spain

After spending three months travelling through Spain in 2021 — from buzzy Madrid and historic Pamplona to Barcelona, Valencia, Calpe (for a quick look at Ricardo Bofill’s postmodern apartment complex La Muralla Roja), Seville and Menorca — it has become one of my favourite European countries to explore on my own. Spanish trains and buses are efficient and relatively affordable making it simple to get around; hostels are plentiful and it’s easy to find Airbnb rooms when hotel prices skyrocket during peak season. The local people I met were always eager to share tips or check in on me once they found out that I was travelling alone — something I haven’t experienced everywhere in Europe. The tapas is also a huge draw here, especially at old-school bars tucked away in side streets. Since small bites, or pintxos , are often complimentary and served alongside drinks, it’s easy (and great value) to spend lazy afternoons sampling a whole array of Spanish delights, often to a 1980s soundtrack. Don’t miss A day trip from Madrid to Chinchon, the town where the Wes Anderson film Asteroid City was shot; it takes just over an hour by bus from the city centre. Make it happen Solos Holidays focuses on walking, foodie and cultural tours for those mostly aged 40 and older. Its Walking the Sierra de la Nieves group tour takes like-minded ramblers through the Ronda Mountains in Andalusia, via dramatic scenery and sociable dinners. Seven nights’ half-board costs from £1,659pp, including flights to Malaga (solosholidays.co.uk).

Cooking and street tours in Colombia

When I told friends and family that I was heading to Colombia alone at the start of last year, many people queried my sanity. The country’s narco past, guerrilla warfare and history of kidnappings meant that, for a long time, it was a no-go area for solo travellers, especially women. Today, Colombians detest its drug-riddled past and the glorification of the notorious trafficker Pablo Escobar. Instead they’re eager to showcase the country they adore. According to Juan Sebastian, a lawyer I met on a bus from Medellin to the quaint town of Salamina, “Escobar’s reign was one of the worst chapters in Colombia’s history” — a sentiment shared by many I met in the country. Sebastian introduced me to the whimsical town of Jardin, taking me to his favourite restaurant, Doña Hilda (mains from £4), and showing me impressive waterfalls, many of which weren’t listed in my guidebook. The days I spent in Medellin, Cartagena, Bogota, Barranquilla and Jardin provided me with some of my most precious travel moments, including dreamlike solo hikes through pink banana plantations in Jardin and a colourful street-art tour of Medellin. I felt safe throughout my time in Colombia, especially in the countryside, where farmers and children were always eager to chat. I always organise my own trips, but there are a range of companies offering group tours to Colombia, adding an extra element of security and ease. Don’t miss Leonor Espinosa’s 12-course tasting menu at her Leo restaurant in Bogota, with its focus on regional ingredients, sourced from 52 areas across Colombia. It is a delight from start to finish (from £80; restauranteleo.com). Make it happen The solo travel company Flash Pack specialises in group tours for lone travellers in their thirties and forties; its Vibrant Colombia tour digs into the local scene with cooking classes in Medellin, rum tasting in Cartagena and visits to the Rosario Islands and a coffee farm. Eight nights’ B&B starts at £2,620pp, including all activities, domestic transport and eight other meals (flashpack.com); fly to Bogota.

• 11 of the best group tours for solo travellers • Best city breaks for solo travellers

Mountain hiking in Nepal

As the gateway to the Himalayas, Nepal stuns at every turn. The remarkable country captured my heart in 2015, during a monthlong solo jaunt in which I trekked with two female Nepalese guides through hypnotic mountains to Annapurna Base Camp, at a heady 4,130m (13,551ft). Alone with my thoughts most days, I was forced to look inward, helping me to make sense of a messy recent break-up. The soaring mountains and ethereal beauty of the landscape made me realise the insignificance of our time on the planet. After seven days of hiking and sleeping in some of the basic teahouses that dot the hillsides, I awoke to catch the sunrise turning the peak of one of the highest mountains in the world to gold. Kathmandu and Pokhara, the jumping-off point for hikes into the Annapurna range, are well equipped for solo travellers, with a range of great hostels, restaurants and cafés where crossing paths with fellow adventurers of all ages is easy. Don’t miss Catching a glimpse of the Living Goddess Kumari at the Kumari Ghar in Durbar Square, Kathmandu. It is believed that the goddess is a manifestation of divine female energy and she occasionally makes unscheduled appearances on the balcony of her palace. Make it happen Much Better Adventures runs 16-night treks of the Annapurna Circuit for groups of up to 12 (active) travellers. Rated as “challenging”, its trips put you up in guesthouses and teahouses and include free time for exploring Kathmandu. Sixteen nights starts at £1,230pp, including guides, porters and five meals (muchbetteradventures.com); fly to Kathmandu.

Great food in Naples

I don’t want to draw comparisons to the Eat, Pray, Love memoir, but Italy is one hell of a draw for solo females — especially if you love to eat. Ahead of my monthlong, summertime trip to the country, friends balked at the idea of spending August in Italy: “Too hot! Too expensive!” But I couldn’t disagree more. As I wasn’t interested in the Amalfi coast, I stuck to Naples, and my Airbnb host quickly became my guide to the vibrant city, offering daily recommendations: Mennella for dreamy gelato (from £2; pasticceriamennella.it) and Buatta di Angela Gargiulo for the best pasta in town (mains from £9; buattanapoli.com). I also took captivating day trips to Pompeii and the unsung island of Procida. Don’t miss Banksy’s Madonna With a Pistol mural, next to the Church and Convent of the Girolamini. Make it happen Four nights’ room only for two at Palazzo Adele, just along the coast in Ercolano and rated “exceptional”, starts at £386pp, including flights (expedia.co.uk).

Which countries have you travelled to solo? Share your tips in the comments below

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Watch CBS News

Wildfire in Canada forces thousands to evacuate as smoke causes dangerous air quality

May 12, 2024 / 9:43 AM EDT / CBS/AP

Thousands of residents from a Canadian town are being urged to evacuate amid a fast-growing wildfire that has resulted in poor air quality and reduced visibility.

The blaze in northeastern British Columbia started Friday and almost doubled in size by the following day, reaching about 4,200 acres. BC Wildfire Service maps showed the fire burning just a few miles west of Fort Nelson's city limits. Fort Nelson is located in the far northeastern corner of British Columbia, about 995 miles from Vancouver. Fort Nelson and the Fort Nelson Indian Reserve have a combined population of about 3,000.

The wildfire smoke coming from British Columbia is causing widespread poor air quality and reduced visibility, a Sunday alert said.

Online footage shared by locals from the Fort Nelson wildfire showed thick plumes of smoke rising high into the sky, with houses in the foreground. In some photos, haze seemed to cover wide areas.

The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and Fort Nelson First Nation issued a joint statement warning people choosing to stay that "emergency medical services are not available, nor are groceries or other amenities."

The municipality mayor, Rob Fraser, said most of the residents in and around Fort Nelson have been evacuated, adding that police were going door to door to ensure everyone got out.

"In moments of uncertainty, unity becomes critical," Fraser said in the press release. "Please evacuate calmly, our collective strength will be our resilience."

Health authorities said Fort Nelson General Hospital has been safely evacuated and closed until further notice.

Authorities in Alberta also issued an alert about a wildfire 15.5 miles southwest of the oil sands city of Fort McMurray that could impact visibility on highways in some areas. No evacuation order has been given so far for the major Canadian oil city.

Fire restrictions will remain in effect in the area until conditions improve, officials said.

"Five crews of wildland firefighters, nine helicopters and air tankers worked on the southeast perimeter today. Windy conditions challenged firefighting efforts," Alberta Wildfire said Saturday, adding that an incident management team will be managing the wildfire.

The high winds pushed smoke across Alberta on Saturday, putting the city of Edmonton under an air quality advisory with hazard levels rated at 10-plus — or "very high risk" — forecast.

Meteorologists are not anticipating rain and have advised people to stay indoors.

While conditions should begin to improve Sunday night, they will likely remain poor through Monday or even Tuesday, officials said.

Canadian officials warned Sunday that people with lung diseases such as asthma, people with heart disease, older adults, children, those who are pregnant and people who work outdoors are at a higher risk of experiencing health effects from wildfire smoke. They recommended people who spend time outdoors wear a mask to reduce exposure to fire particles in the smoke.

"Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone's health even at low concentrations," officials said.

In April, Canadian officials warned the country could face another catastrophic wildfire season after last year's  historic fires . 

There were warmer-than-normal temperatures and widespread drought conditions across Canada this winter, officials disclosed. Weather outlooks indicate that Canada can expect higher-than-normal temperatures this spring and summer as well, setting the stage for wildfires. 

"With the heat and dryness across the country, we can expect that the wildfire season will start sooner and end later, and potentially be more explosive," Canada Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan said at a press conference.

Canada's wildfire season  typically runs from May through October. The country is home to about 9% of the world's forests. 

In 2023, Canada witnessed a record number of wildfires that also caused choking smoke in parts of the U.S. and forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate across British Columbia. That year, 19 counties in 11 states had multiple days with "very unhealthy" and "hazardous" air quality.

Smoke  billowed to the U.S., blanketing portions of the East Coast and Midwest. Last June, New York City's air quality became some of the worst in the world in June as Canada's wildfire smoke blew in.

In 2023, Canada's severe weather caused over $3.1 billion in insured damages, officials said. 

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Sofitel Baru Calablanca Beach Resort

Located on isla barú near the historic city of cartagena, sofitel barú calablanca beach is an ultra-modern luxury resort nestled along its own cove on the island’s north coast..

Learn about the history of the turban in Afro-Caribbean culture, while designing your own.

Embracing a minimalist look and crafted from glass, stone, and native wood, the hotel’s design focuses on texture rather than color. Accommodations mimic this style and include a soft color palette and woven materials. Every room boasts a private balcony or terrace for viewing the nearby sea. Bathrooms are minimalist and soothing. Select rooms feature free-standing tubs.

The resort offers a creative twist on local flavors. Calablanca serves traditional Colombian, Mediterranean and international fare, with a focus on ancestral cooking techniques and farm to table produce. Humo Restaurant is a robata (charcoal) grill, with a rotating menu that is influenced from Japan, China, Thai, and Peru. Overlooking the sea is Bahía Restaurant, specializing in grilled dishes and cocktails. Don’t miss the food truck on the beach.

Soak up the sun at the beach, where private cabanas are available, or at one of the resort’s five pools. The 24-hour fitness center is packed with state-of-the-art equipment as well as a yoga area. Personal training sessions are also available. Head to the spa for a pampering facial or massage, using organic products.

The resort offers an extensive list of activities, including cinema under the stars, Hobie Cat excursions, and a mixologist class. Coffee tastings and tours to see bioluminescence plankton are also available.

Sector Porto Nao Km 7. Cartagena, 130017 Colombia

Rafael Nuñez International Airport.

• Daily breakfast for two
• Unique Amenity : US$ 100 Food and beverage credit to be used during stay
• 4pm check-out guaranteed
• 12pm check-in, when available
• Room upgrade at check-in, when available 1
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• $50 Food and beverage credit to be used during your stay.

Call your Dedicated Relationship Manager to book this property and receive your exclusive Centurion benefits in addition to your standard Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits.

1 Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.

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Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR): Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) program benefits are available for new bookings made through American Express Travel with participating properties and are valid only for eligible Platinum Charge Card Members and Centurion ® Members. Platinum Credit Card Members who are not also Australian Platinum Charge Card Members or Centurion ® Members, are not eligible for FHR program benefits. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express ® Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be travelling on the itinerary booked. Noon check-in and room upgrade are subject to availability and are provided at check-in; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of experience credit and additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property. The experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to the amount of the experience credit. To receive the experience credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The experience credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. The type and value of the daily breakfast (for two) varies by property; breakfast will be valued at a minimum of US$60 per room per day. To receive the breakfast credit, the breakfast bill must be charged to your hotel room. The breakfast credit will be applied at check-out. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members travelling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional FHR benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the property reserve the right to modify or revoke FHR benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you may have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your FHR benefits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for FHR program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, please call the number on the back of your Card. 

Centurion Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR): Centurion Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) program benefits are available for new bookings made through your Relationship Manager or Centurion Travel Service with participating properties and are valid for Centurion ® Members only. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express ® Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked. Room upgrades are subject to availability and are provided first at the time of booking and then at check-in, if available; certain room categories are not eligible for an upgrade. Noon check-in is subject to availability and is provided at check-in. The type of experience credit varies by property; the experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to the amount of the experience credit. To receive the experience credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The experience credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. The type and value of the daily breakfast (for two) varies by property; breakfast will be valued at a minimum of US$60 per room per day. To receive the breakfast credit, the breakfast bill must be charged to your hotel room. The breakfast credit will be applied at check-out. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. For a stay of two consecutive nights or more, an additional experience credit of US$200 will be provided. Benefit restrictions are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional FHR benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke FHR benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you may have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your FHR benefits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change.

The Hotel Collection (THC): The Hotel Collection (THC) benefits are available for new bookings of two consecutive nights or more, with participating properties, made through Platinum Travel Service, Centurion Travel Service or American Express Travel Online (americanexpress.com.au/travel or americanexpress.com.au/thc; Online bookings currently only available to Primary Card Members. Bookings are valid only for eligible Card Members of the following American Express Cards: American Express ® Rewards Advantage Card, American Express ® Explorer Credit Card, American Express ® Platinum Reserve Credit Card, American Express ® Gold Card, American Express ® Gold Business Card, American Express ® Platinum Card, American Express ® Platinum Business Card and American Express ® Centurion Card. Excludes Gold Credit Card Members who are not also Australian Rewards Advantage, Gold or Platinum Charge Card Members. Payment must be made in full with an eligible American Express Card in the Card Member’s name. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, Card Member must travel on itinerary booked to be eligible for benefits described. Noon check-in, late check-out and the room upgrade are subject to availability; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of US$100 credit and additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property; the US$100 credit will be applied to eligible charges up to US$100. To receive the US$100 credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The US$100 credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain credits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional THC benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke the THC benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your THC benefits. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in US Dollars or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for THC program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card.

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Amazon awards $16 million in college tuition to U.S. computer science students

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Amazon announced the 2023 Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship recipients. This year, Amazon awarded 400 scholarships, providing a total of $16 million in paid tuition for students to attend the U.S. college or university of their choice. Through Amazon Future Engineer, our global philanthropic education initiative, each student will receive $40,000 over four years to pursue a degree in computer science or engineering and a paid internship after their freshman year to gain practical work experience with mentorship from Amazon leaders.

This year’s cohort, which includes high school seniors from nearly 40 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, is the most diverse yet with representation from groups that are currently underrepresented in jobs related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). More than 70% of these remarkable students identify as Black, Latino, and Native American, and 50% identify as a woman or nonbinary.

"Every year, I continue to be inspired by our scholarship recipients’ academic achievements and drive to use their problem-solving abilities to build solutions for their communities,” said Victor Reinoso, global director of Philanthropic Education Initiatives at Amazon. “With students from historically underrepresented and underserved communities representing only 18% of CS bachelor’s degrees, we believe that connecting students to computer science education and opportunities helps create a more equitable and inclusive future, across all industries and sectors, for generations to come."

Scholarship recipients applied for the opportunity and were selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, community involvement, work experience, future goals, and financial need. Amazon surprised the 400 students with news of the award. We met with two of the recipients to learn what inspired them to study computer science.

Micah Hill, Laurel High School

Laurel, Mississippi

Micah Hill was first inspired to consider a career in computer science by witnessing her sibling’s academic achievements. Her brother, Samuel, is a 2021 Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship recipient. Next, her chemistry teacher and the feature film Hidden Figures , which tells the story of a team of Black women NASA mathematicians, confirmed her career aspirations and compelled her to help organize a week-long coding program for fifth- to eighth-grade girls to learn fundamentals in 3D printing.

“I didn't know the statistics regarding women in computer science were so disproportionate,” Hill said. “I wanted to provide girls in my community with an opportunity to learn how to code and print in 3D.”

With the support of her Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, Hill will attend the University of Southern Mississippi alongside her brother in the fall and hopes to continue inspiring young women by reaching her goal of building a career at a large global tech company. Samuel is excited to show her the ropes at Amazon when she joins her internship in 2024.

Angel Feliz, The Metropolitan Regional Career and Technical Center

Providence, Rhode Island

Angel Feliz moved from the Dominican Republic to Providence, Rhode Island, when he was 9 years old. This year, when he called his mom to tell her he had been awarded the Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, he was so emotional, he could barely get out the words.

“I’m a first-generation immigrant,” Feliz said. “This scholarship means that I will soon also be a first-generation college student and can continue exploring pathways in technology without placing a financial burden on me and my family. It also helps me feel motivated. It is important to me to know that I have people supporting me along the way.”

Feliz loves the collaboration that his computer science work has offered to date, which counters the perception of independent, siloed work environments that many have of the field. Feliz plans to attend college in the northeast and major in computer science with a minor in cybersecurity.

Amazon is committed to reaching 2 million students from underrepresented communities across the U.S. with real-world virtual and hands-on computer science project learning. In addition to the U.S. program, Amazon Future Engineer, the company’s childhood-to-career computer science education program, is available in Canada, France, Germany, India, and UK.

Congratulations to the 2023 Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship recipients. Learn more about Amazon’s most recent scholarship cohort.

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