Colombia 2 Week Itinerary | Complete Colombia Travel Guide

Planning on spending two weeks in Colombia? Colombia is a country with immense cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It may not be the first place on your mind for a family holiday, but this complete Colombia 2 week itinerary will show you exactly why this country is the perfect destination.

Not sure where to start? I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you plan your ideal trip to Colombia, South America. I cover everything from the best time to visit and what to wear to where to stay in each great location. 

So, let’s jump right in! 

Tip: Looking for more family-friendly travel destinations? Read this guide to find out why travelling to South Africa is ideal for family holidays.

Visiting Colombia for 2 Weeks: Essential Information

Colombia is a country that will leave your heart full and satisfied. From bustling cities to snow-capped mountains and serene beaches, there are so many diverse things for you to see and experience. It’s one of the most biodiverse places in the world that will leave you in awe at every turn.

In a country as vast and varied as Columbia, planning a trip will never be an easy task. With the help of Original Travel, the task of planning a 2-week Colombia itinerary for us was less daunting. Original Travel helped plan our family Colombia trip from start to finish. All their itineraries are tailor-made, accommodating all your specific wants and needs whether you’re a solo traveller, couple or family.

Here are some tips I picked up during my 2 weeks in Colombia to help simplify your holiday planning.

Best Time To Travel to Colombia

Colombia has a subtropical climate that is very different from other countries in the region. This means that it is possible to visit Colombia throughout the year without having to worry too much about weather conditions.

However, there are some months that are better than others. December through April is a perfect time to visit Colombia because it’s not too hot and not too cold. This is ideal for people who may struggle to adapt to a foreign climate.

With that being said, it’s important to note that the temperature and rainfall vary according to regions and changes in elevation. The higher the elevation, the cooler it gets. You’ll have to pack for cold temperatures in Bogota and for the heat of the Caribbean coast. Speaking of which, let’s take a look at what to pack. 

What To Pack When Visiting Colombia

When visiting Colombia, it’s important to pack for both cold and warm temperatures. For example, the elevation in Bogota makes it much colder than the Caribbean Coast. The latter is more tropical with a hot climate. Pack clothes to keep you cool during the day and warm at night.

PACKING FOR BOGOTA’S COLD

• Warm clothing – sweaters, jackets, coats, and gloves
• Warm socks
• A scarf or shawl to keep you warm
• Raincoat or rain jacket
• An umbrella for the wet season

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE HEAT OF THE CARIBBEAN

• Loose-fitting clothes to keep you cool, like comfortable shorts and a loose top
• A hat to cover your face and ears from the sun
• UV sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun
• A high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin
• A water bottle to keep you hydrated

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE TROPICAL AREAS OF COLOMBIA

• Loose-fitting clothes made of cotton and/or linen
• Mosquito repellant
• Comfortable, yet breathable, closed shoes
• Long-sleeved shirts to protect you from mosquito bites
• A light sweater and/or raincoat
• Travel towel

Now that you have an idea of what to pack, let’s dive into the 2-week itinerary and discover one of South America’s best-kept secrets.

2-Week Colombia Itinerary: What to Do in Colombia

Colombia is such a vast country that two weeks might not be enough to see it all. However, this Colombia two-week itinerary will show you an unforgettable trip, covering some of the top destinations this country has to offer.

Here is an overview of my Colombia itinerary for 2 weeks:

• Day 1: Fly to Bogota
• Days 2-3: Explore & Cycle through Bogota
• Day 4: Fly to Armenia
• Days 4-6: Explore Armenia’s Coffee Region
• Day 7: Fly to Cartagena
• Days 7-9: Get to Know Cartagena
• Day 10: Drive to Tayrona National Park
• Days 10-13: Explore Tayrona Park & surrounding areas
• Day 14: Say Goodbye to Colombia

This 14-day Colombia itinerary allows ample time to see the top sights in Colombia. The breakdown will also cover everything from recommendations of places to stay and eat as well as some essential tips.

Day 1: Fly to Bogota

The first day of this 2-week itinerary for Colombia is set aside for travel. You’ll depart from your choice of airport and land in Colombia’s famed capital, Bogota. Our flight from London Heathrow took 10.5 hours, which meant we arrived the following day in Bogota.

Where To Stay in Bogota: Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia

The stylish Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia Hotel is a great option for your first two nights. It’s tastefully decorated with a blend of modern French style and rich South American design and history.

Breakfast is a treat with Colombian pastries and fruits such as pitaya and granadilla, as well as an option of breakfast cooked to order. The hotel is located in a prime location too in the northern area of the city. It sits steps away from all the major art galleries, restaurants, and bars in the well-heeled La Zona Rosa district. 

Days 2-3: Get to Know Bogota

Colombia’s capital, Bogota, is situated at an altitude of 2,600 metres (8,530 feet) above sea level. The third highest capital in the world, this city sits in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. 

With more than 8 million inhabitants, the bustling city, however, is seen by many travellers as merely a hub to transit to other cities. It’s a shame as there is so much to see and it deserves to be discovered.

Over a couple of days in the vibrant capital, we explored colourful art-strewn streets, admired epic panoramic viewpoints, and took part in an urban cyclist’s dream with a Bogota bicycle tour. 

Bogota is also home to some impressive museums and galleries such as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum. To get the most out of Bogota’s highlights, consider a private guided Bogota city tour. The tour includes visits to Monserrate as well as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum.

Make sure that you are well-rested. The next day you will be going on bike rides and exploring Bogota. 

Bear in mind that Bogota’s climate can be quite chilly due to its Andean location. There are two seasons: The dry season (December to January and July to August) and the wet season (from April to May, and October to November).

Travel tip: If you want to spend more time here, read my complete guide on Bogota’s best things to do.

Day 3: Explore Bogota by Bike

A guided cycling tour can take you through the most interesting places in a city. You get an immersive experience that is hard to find any other way through all the sights and sounds. 

Exploring the dynamic culture of the Andean capital by cycling was a true highlight. It was especially great for us as we were there for the Sunday Ciclovía. This is a long-standing weekly event where city streets are closed to cars and the bikers, walkers and rollerbladers take over.

The tour revealed some of the city’s incredibly creative and political street art. Learning about the many local artists and what their work stood for was a real eye-opener. Another highlight was riding through the historic centre, La Candelaria and some of its cobblestoned streets. 

Our eyes were treated to a complete feast of colours along with the Spanish Colonial, Baroque, and Art Deco architecture. Whilst in the historic centre, don’t miss the Botero Museum, and be sure to make time to peruse the amazing street market.

A visit to the famed and gigantic Paloquemao Market for food and drinks is a must. It’s a fantastic cultural experience and gives you the chance to sample local specialities and an array of exotic fruits. We tried granadilla, soursop, dragonfruit, chirimoya, and maracuya — to name a few.

Travel tip: During the bike ride, it’ll be important to bring along that sunscreen and jacket you packed.

Day 4: Travel to Armenia’s Coffee Region

Armenia is the capital of Colombia’s Quindo department, which is located in western Colombia. The flight from Bogota to the coffee region of Armenia is a little over an hour.

Forming part of the coffee triangle in the heart of the Andes mountains, Armenia boasts breathtaking vistas and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cocora Valley is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Armenia.

Where To Stay in Armenia: Hacienda Bambusa

After travelling from Bogota, enjoy the rest of the day at this beautiful hacienda. Hacienda Bambusa lies 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the city of Armenia. We chose to stay out of the centre at this rural hideaway to fully immerse ourselves and experience the tranquillity of the region.

Located on a 500-acre working farm, you’ll travel past grazing cows, cacao trees, and orchards before you reach the colourful hacienda.

Guests can revel in the incredible scenery, book a guided tour of the farm and bamboo forest, or relax in the lovely pool. The birdlife is also worth a mention as the hacienda has over 100 species living there. Adrenaline junkies are catered for too, with activities such as paragliding, zip-lining, and bamboo rafting on offer.

Day 5: Hike in the Cocora Valley

The world’s tallest wax palm trees can be found in the Cocora Valley. These legendary trees can grow to be over 60 metres (200 feet) tall.

We did a Cocora Valley hike, although we didn’t do the full hike around the valley (which can take around 5–6 hours to complete). Instead, we opted for a shorter walk of 1.5 hours that took us up to the base of the palms with spectacular views of the valley below.

Our day trip ended in the colourful small town of Salento. A wander down the main thoroughfare of Calle Real feels like you’ve stepped inside Disney’s Encanto. 

A mix of restaurants, guest houses, souvenir shops, and authentic artisan stores make up the vibrant street. Expect the camera to go into overdrive with the myriad of brightly coloured facades. And of course, you can’t leave the coffee cradle of Colombia without having a coffee!

Travel tip: Wear light clothing and sunscreen to protect you from the sun. It can get very intense on the trail. A long-sleeved shirt, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal.

Book: Pereira & Salento: Cocora Valley and Coffee Farm Day Tour

Day 6: Zip-Lining Across Coffee Regions

One of the best and most unique ways to see Colombia’s iconic coffee belt is from a birds-eye view. Bosques de Saman, a restored ranch within a coffee plantation, is home to Colombia’s longest and tallest zip course.

Once geared up with a helmet, harness, and thick gloves, you can zip line across different coffee regions as you hop from station to station along a 2 km run. The scenery whizzing past was incredible; from the snow peaks in the distance to the verdant rolling hills below. It was so much fun and I highly recommend it.

The adrenaline-fuelled morning was followed by a calmer afternoon with a guided cacao plantation tour at Hacienda Bambusa. A real highlight was tasting fresh cacao fruit pulp straight from the pod: sweet, sour and very slimy. We enjoyed it so much that we finished the whole pod.

Tip: For more ideas on what to do in the area, read my guide to the best activities in Quindo, Armenia.

Day 7: Fly to Cartagena De Indias

Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its preserved colonial architecture and Spanish culture. If you’re looking for a spectacular travel destination, this region makes for a wonderful trip.

We flew from Pereira Airport which is a 2-hour drive from the hacienda to Cartagena. The flight to the port city of Cartagena is an hour long.

Where To Stay in Cartagena: Casa Pizarro Hotel

The period hotel, Casa Pizarro, is nestled in a small square in the cool neighbourhood of Getsemani. There are classic rooms and the decor fuses contemporary and colonial pieces for a beautifully unique style. 

After a day of sightseeing in the sweltering sun, the outdoor pool is perfect to cool off in and the rooftop terrace is a great place to relax.

Day 7-9: Get to Know Cartagena De Indias

Cartagena de Indias oozes a romantic, high-energy vibe all of its own. Cartagena boasts a tropical climate, blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant colonial architecture with bougainvillaea-laced balconies. It’s no surprise that it’s a bucket list city for many travellers. 

The historic inner walled city is one of its main attractions, with the districts of El Centro and San Diego packed with wonderfully preserved churches and mansions,

In Cartagena, there’s no need for a plan or schedule. By simply wandering around, you’ll uncover a maze of charming cobblestone streets and picturesque plazas where you can view talented street performers.

Have a look at my complete guide on the best activities in Cartagena, Colombia for more ideas for your first day. You can also book a Cartagena bike tour to get a good overview of the city.

Day 8: A Tour of San Felipe, Getsemani & the Historic Centre

After a day at leisure, the next day includes a tour of San Felipe, one of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks. The famous fortress dominates the city and has guarded Cartagena for more than 400 years.

The bohemian neighbourhood of Getsemani was a joy to discover. Once a dangerous, crime-ridden hotspot, today it’s the coolest and most invigorating place to be. You’ll be captivated by the endless colourful buildings and street art. Plaza de Trinidad is at its heart and as night falls it comes alive with street food vendors and crowds until late.

Book: Cartagena Walled City, San Felipe, La Popa Tour & Tastings

Day 9: Take a Boat to the Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a perfect destination for a day trip from Cartagena. You’ll find 26 pristine islands off the coast, all with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters! They make a great day trip from the city when you catch a morning boat and it usually takes around 1–1.5 hours to arrive (depending on the island).

Packages typically include lunch at one island restaurant before snorkelling, kayaking or just relaxing on the beach. We headed to San Pedro de Majagua island and it was a lovely, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Book: Rosario Islands Day Tour with Snorkel & Lunch

Day 10: Travel to Tayrona National Park

A private transfer was organised from Cartagena to Tayrona National Park, our final destination. It’s a long journey of 4.5 hrs along the stunning Caribbean coastline.

Tayrona National Park is a popular destination in Colombia, known for having the most jaw-dropping coastal landscapes. 

You’ll love learning about man and nature’s coexistence in the stunning Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range. Indigenous tribes and various life forms depend on the network of ecosystems in the region. It makes sense why UNESCO declared the area a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site in 1979.

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is also the highest coastal mountain formation in the world. Its highest peak, Pico Cristóbal Colón, stands at around 5,800 metres (19,029 feet), making it the highest point in Colombia.

Where To Stay Near Tayrona National Park: Cayena Beach Villa

Spend four nights in the blissful Cayena Beach Villa — a paradise for those looking to relax in the sun. It’s nestled amidst the beautiful Caribbean coastline with its palm-fringed beaches and a backdrop of forested mountains. We stayed in their superior room with half board.

The hotel is located 15 minutes from the Tayrona National Park entrance and about a 23-kilometre (14-mile) drive to the artsy Santa Marta.

Day 10: Relax at Cayena Beach Villa

There is much to do at this beachside property than just lounging in the sun. Enjoy the outdoor pool, direct access to the beach, and majestic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Be careful if you decide to go for a dip in the sea, as the waters are magnificent but also quite wild.

Thinking of learning more about yoga? Take a yoga course at the hotel. Want to get your surf on? Surf the beach with locals.

After having fun indulging in all these activities, rest up and settle into Cayena Beach Villa. The following day entails a foot tour of Tayrona National Park.

Day 11: Explore Tayrona Park on Foot

Explore Tayrona National Park on foot to appreciate all of its beauty. Listen for tropical birdsong and howler and capuchin monkey sounds as you approach the lush forest where the Koguis (indigenous people) still live.

Our guided hiking tour took us through rainforests, past huge boulders and onto some of the most gorgeous white-sand beaches. We stopped for lunch before whiling away time on the spectacular beach with very calm clear blue seas.

The trek takes 3 hours in total (1.5 hours there and back). Although it’s not difficult, the hike can feel quite hard at times at 30°C and 60% humidity. It’s so worth it for the incredibly unique landscapes, where you can do a 360 and see jungle, beaches and mountains all around.

Travel tip: Bring along a swimsuit, comfortable closed shoes, snacks, and bug repellant.

Book: From Santa Marta a Tayrona Park Hiking Tour & San Juan Cape Visit

Day 12: Boat Trip Down Don Diego River

The Don Diego River is born from the snowy peaks of the highest coastal mountain range, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.

Taironaka Nature Reserve is en route to the Don Diego River. There are restored terraces where the indigenous settlement built their homes and an archaeological museum with original artefacts. The area is of great importance for Koguis — the direct descendants of the Tayrona.

Once at the waters, we opted to travel down the Don Diego River by kayak. There is an option to go tubing too which is where you let yourself be carried by the river current towards the sea in an inflatable tube. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can also just hop on a boat. 

The kayaking took 1.5 hours, and we glided past the white-sand beaches and mangrove forests of the Sierra Nevada’s foothills. After a rest stop on a beach, the return journey back up the river was much easier on a boat.

Travel tip: Bring a swimsuit and towel, as well as comfortable shoes and mosquito repellant.

Make sure to also read this comprehensive guide to Tayrona National Park, Colombia for more information.

Day 14: Saying Goodbye to Colombia

The one day that comes too soon. After 2 weeks in Colombia, our itinerary was complete and it was time to head back to reality. After a 1.5-hour transfer to Santa Marta airport from Tayrona National Park, you’ll arrive in Bogota in just over an hour to board your return flight home.

Two-Week Colombia Travel Itinerary: Wrapped Up

Colombia is a land of endless adventure, with two oceans on either side and everything beautiful in between. From the bustling city life and rural towns to unique landscapes unlike anywhere in the world, Colombia is an amazing country to visit. I, for one, know that this will not be our last visit.

Travelling to Colombia without any plans can be a daunting task. But I hope this two-week Colombia itinerary shows how you can cover a fair amount of the country and have the best time ever.

For more Caribbean escapades, have a look at my complete Grenada travel guide. You might also enjoy a trip to the Maldives with the family to enjoy its crystal clear waters, warm weather, and soft sand beaches.

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