Whether you're trying to escape the summer heat back home or are looking to ramp up the thermometer on a tropical holiday, there are plenty of spots in Colombia that will appeal to you. Also, one of the most famous festivals in the entire country takes place during this month.
Most travelers will find that seven to eight days is perfect for a well-paced Colombia trip with stops in Cartagena, Minca, and Tayrona National Park. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five or six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Medellín and Santa Marta. Keep reading for more inspiring itineraries.
Cartagena is one of South America's most enchanting colonial cities. Enticing boutique hotels are already a feature of the Centro Histórico (walled city), with newer properties starting to appear in hip, artsy Getsemaní. Most hotels feature an elegant colonial Spanish theme (in keeping with the city's history) but with plenty of individual touches and splashes of modern art, and there are even swish, contemporary options to consider.
As Medellín grows in popularity, a number of comfortable and well-designed hotels are beginning to appear. You're certain to find something that suits your tastes, from upscale guesthouses and the latest boutique spaces with rooftop swimming pools. Use this guide to find the perfect place to stay while exploring the city.
Planning a trip to Colombia can be exhilarating as you dream of the adventure ahead, but it also raises questions—about costs, visas, language, packing, and more. If you're headed to Colombia for the first time, this article is a good place to start your research and learn some basic facts about travel in the country.
Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting both Bogotá and Cartagena, especially when also including Medellín and the Zona Cafetera. If you're not interested in adding more stops, six to eight days is enough for your Bogotá and Cartagena trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Bogotá and Cartagena, keep reading below.
Bogotá, Colombia's grand capital city, has no shortage of things to do. But travelers eager to escape the hustle and bustle of this sprawling metropolis will find as many attractions right outside of town. Here are our picks for the best.
With miles of white sand beaches, dense jungle, and waves crashing into enormous boulders, Parque Nacional Tayrona is one of the most visually stunning natural reserves in Colombia. Days can be spent swimming in the sea and exploring the jungle, and there are opportunities to visit the remnants of ancient indigenous cities. Use this expert guide to help you get the most from one of Colombia's true natural wonders.
Among South American nations, Colombia has only recently begun to earn raves for gastronomy. But it’s ahead of the pack when it comes to inexpensive, delicious street food. Here are 22 must-try antojitos (snacks) as well as dishes sold at stalls and markets nationwide.
As an international hub, Bogotá remains the first point of contact for many travelers to Colombia, and it's worth spending two or three days exploring the country's dynamic capital city. If you're coming here only as a stop on the way to another Colombian locale, you may only have 24 hours to fill. But if you have the time and interest, this city and its surroundings reward leisurely visits of up to five days with exciting day trips outside the city.