9 Day itinerary toColombia
Local travel distance per day in km.
Day 1
El Dorado International Airport, Bogotá➞La Candelaria, Bogotá
Travel time: 0.5 hr| Travel distance: 15 km
Morning

- Enjoy a traditional breakfast with arepas and Colombian coffee at a local café in La Candelaria.
- Stroll through the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria, known for its colorful colonial buildings.
- Visit the Plaza BolĂvar, the main square of Bogotá, to admire iconic buildings like the Catedral Primada and the National Capitol.
Afternoon

- Take a funicular ride to the top of Monserrate for breathtaking views of Bogotá and explore the church atop.
- Have lunch at a traditional Colombian restaurant with a view of the city below.
- Visit the Botero Plaza to see the famous oversized sculptures by Fernando Botero.
- Enjoy a walk in the scenic SimĂłn BolĂvar Park, Bogotá's largest green space.
Evening

- Have dinner at Andrés Carne de Res, a popular Bogotá restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delicious Colombian cuisine.
- Stroll along the vibrant Zona T, a popular nightlife district in Bogotá, for a drink or dessert.
Accomodation

- Selina Bogotá La Candelaria
Day 2
La Candelaria, Bogotá➞Zipaquirá
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 50 km
Morning

- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, trying various local pastries.
- Visit Zipaquirá to explore the Salt Cathedral, a stunning underground church built within the tunnels of an old salt mine.
- Explore the friendly town of Zipaquirá, known for its welcoming streets and colonial architecture.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at a local restaurant in Zipaquirá.
- Return to Bogotá and visit the Usaquén Flea Market, offering handicrafts and Colombian street food.
- Relax in the central park of Usaquén, observing local life and enjoying a cold Colombian beer.
- Explore the various cafes and artisan shops in Usaquén, particularly known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Evening

- Return to Zona G in Bogotá for dinner known for some of the city's best gastronomy.
- Enjoy a salsa dancing class or show, experiencing Colombia’s lively music scene.
Accomodation

- Hotel B3 Virrey, Bogotá
Day 3
Bogotá➞Villa de Leyva
Travel time: 3 hr| Travel distance: 165 km
Morning

- Drive to Villa de Leyva, enjoying Colombian landscapes along the way.
- Have breakfast in the charming square of Plaza Mayor, Villa de Leyva.
- Join a walking tour of Villa de Leyva to discover its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historical sites.
Afternoon

- Lunch at a traditional restaurant, trying local dishes such as calentado with meat.
- Visit the Terracotta House, a unique architectural marvel made entirely of clay.
- Explore the Museum El FĂłsil to see a gigantic Kronosaurus fossil found locally.
- Enjoy a horseback riding tour in the surrounding countryside and stunning green landscapes.
Evening

- Dine at a cozy restaurant overlooking the Plaza Mayor, enjoying a romantic sunset view.
- Take an evening stroll around the main square, famous for its excellent coffee and relaxed evening ambiance.
Accomodation

- Hotel Plaza Mayor Villa de Leyva
Day 4
Villa de LeyvaâžžSan Gil
Travel time: 3 hr| Travel distance: 180 km
Morning

- Visit Casa Terracota, the largest piece of pottery in the world, on the outskirts of Villa de Leyva.
- Drive to San Gil, known as Colombia’s adventure capital.
- Enjoy scenic views and short stops for photos during the road trip.
Afternoon

- Arrive in San Gil and have lunch at a local café.
- Head to Chicamocha Canyon for a day of thrilling activities like paragliding or hiking the surrounding trails.
- Visit the Parque Gallineral, home to hanging moss gardens and unique flora and fauna.
- Explore the town of San Gil, taking in its vibrant atmosphere.
Evening

- Dine at Gringo Mike’s, a popular local spot with great international cuisine.
- Relax at a local café or bar, enjoying live music and conversation with friendly locals.
Accomodation

- Sam's VIP Hostel San Gil
Day 5
San GilâžžBarichara
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 22 km
Morning

- Have breakfast in San Gil before heading to Barichara, often referred to as Colombia’s prettiest town.
- Enjoy a walking tour around Barichara’s cobblestone streets, soaking in its historic charm and breathtaking views.
- Visit the Church of Santa Barbara, a beautiful colonial landmark.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at a local restaurant known for its traditional cuisine and fresh ingredients.
- Visit Capilla de Jesus, a stunning chapel with its stone facade and serene ambiance.
- Explore Talleres Artesanales de Barichara to see local craftsmen at work and browse handmade goods.
- Hike the Camino Real, a historic stone path connecting Barichara with the nearby town of Guane.
Evening

- Have a relaxing dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying spectacular views of the sunset over the mountains.
- Attend a cultural evening hosted locally, experiencing traditional music and dance performances.
Accomodation

- Hotel Casa Oniri, Barichara
Day 6
BaricharaâžžMedellĂn
Travel time: 8 hr| Travel distance: 340 km
Morning

- Enjoy breakfast in Barichara featuring traditional Colombian arepas.
- Depart on a scenic drive to MedellĂn, taking in the lush countryside views along the way.
- Arrive in MedellĂn and settle into your accommodation.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at a traditional Antioquian restaurant exploring local flavors.
- Visit Comuna 13 to see vibrant street art and hear the transformation stories of this community.
- Take a ride on the famous MedellĂn Metro Cable for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Relax at the Botanical Garden, exploring its diverse flora species and butterfly house.
Evening

- Dinner in the trendy neighbourhood of El Poblado, known for its vibrant eateries and nightlife.
- Visit Parque Lleras for a taste of MedellĂn's nightlife with live music.
- Enjoy a cocktail at a local rooftop bar with city views.
Accomodation

- Masaya Hostel MedellĂn
Day 7
MedellĂnâžžEl Peñol de GuatapĂ©
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 80 km
Morning

- Enjoy a hearty Colombian breakfast in the hotel.
- Drive to Guatapé, known for its colorful zócalos and vibrant art within town buildings.
- Climb El Peñol, a giant rock offering spectacular panoramic views over the lakes and surrounding landscape.
Afternoon

- Relax with a Colombian coffee and lunch at a charming café in Guatapé Town Center.
- Stroll through the colorful streets of Guatapé, admiring the brightly painted buildings.
- Take a boat tour on the reservoir, enjoying the serene water and lush islands.
- Visit the Parque Principal de Guatapé, with its lively atmosphere and fountain.
Evening

- Dine at a lakeside restaurant in Guatapé, enjoying fresh fish dishes.
- Return to MedellĂn and wind down with a quiet walk around El Poblado’s neighborhood.
Accomodation

- Masaya Hostel MedellĂn
Day 8
MedellĂnâžžCartagena
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 463 km
Morning

- Fly to Cartagena, arriving in the early morning to this historic coastal city.
- Check into your hotel in the Old Town neighborhood.
- Enjoy a morning walking tour of the Walled City, exploring its narrow streets adorned with colorful colonial buildings.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at a seafood restaurant in GetsemanĂ, Cartagena's vibrant neighborhood.
- Explore Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a formidable fortress with tunnels and ramparts offering panoramic city views.
- Relax on Bocagrande Beach, swimming and sunbathing on this popular sandy strip.
- Visit the ZenĂş Gold Museum to learn about the indigenous cultures and see the stunning gold artifacts.
Evening

- Dine with views of the sunset over the Caribbean at a rooftop restaurant.
- Take an evening ride on a horse-drawn carriage through Cartagena's romantic streets to experience its charm at night.
- End the evening with a refreshing cocktail at a bar in the lively Plaza Santo Domingo.
Accomodation

- Hostel Bourbon St. Cartagena
Expect mild weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C in March, a transition from the dry to wet season but generally favorable for outdoor activities.
March is not the peak tourist season but leads into it, so it should be moderately busy. Avoid Easter if possible for less crowd, but enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
- Local transportation can include a combination of taxis, buses, and car rentals.
- It's recommended to have cash in Colombian pesos for smaller vendors and attractions.
- Some activities in San Gil like paragliding might require advance booking.
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more accessible communication.
Showing forecasted weather for the upcoming 16 days in Colombia.