15 day itinerary for Colombia

Itinerary

Colombia is a stunning country with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm people. With 15 days to explore, you can take your time and really soak in the beauty of each destination. Here’s a relaxed itinerary that balances adventure, culture, and leisure.

## Day 1: Arrival in Bogotá

• Morning: Arrive in Bogotá. Check into your hotel and take a moment to relax.
• Afternoon: Stroll around La Candelaria, the historic district. Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) to see the incredible collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some ajiaco, a traditional soup.

## Day 2: Bogotá

• Morning: Take the cable car up to Monserrate for breathtaking views of the city.
• Afternoon: Visit the Botero Museum to see works by Fernando Botero and other artists.
• Evening: Explore the nightlife in Zona Rosa or La Macarena. Grab a drink at a rooftop bar.

## Day 3: Bogotá to Villa de Leyva

• Morning: Take a bus to Villa de Leyva (about 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and explore the main square, Plaza Mayor, one of the largest cobblestone squares in South America.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 4: Villa de Leyva

• Morning: Visit the nearby Pozos Azules (blue ponds) for a scenic walk.
• Afternoon: Explore the local markets and artisan shops. Don’t miss the Fossil Museum!
• Evening: Relax at a café and enjoy the charming atmosphere.

## Day 5: Villa de Leyva to Barichara

• Morning: Travel to Barichara (about 4-5 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and take a leisurely walk around this picturesque town, known for its colonial architecture.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local eatery and try the traditional dish, "bocadillo."

## Day 6: Barichara

• Morning: Hike the Camino Real to Guane, a beautiful trail with stunning views (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore Guane and visit the local museum. Return to Barichara.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in town, perhaps with a book or some local music.

## Day 7: Barichara to San Gil

• Morning: Head to San Gil (about 30 minutes by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying paragliding or white-water rafting.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the town square.

## Day 8: San Gil

• Morning: Visit the Parque El Gallineral for a peaceful nature walk.
• Afternoon: Explore the nearby town of Curití, known for its artisan crafts.
• Evening: Try some local street food for dinner.

## Day 9: San Gil to Medellín

• Morning: Travel to Medellín (about 6-7 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Take a stroll around the El Poblado neighborhood.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant.

## Day 10: Medellín

• Morning: Take a guided tour of Comuna 13 to learn about its transformation and street art.
• Afternoon: Visit the Botanical Garden and the nearby Parque Explora.
• Evening: Experience the nightlife in Medellín, perhaps at a salsa club.

## Day 11: Medellín to Cartagena

• Morning: Fly to Cartagena (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the walled city. Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sunset.

## Day 12: Cartagena

• Morning: Take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands for some beach time and snorkeling.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
• Evening: Return to Cartagena and have dinner in the Getsemaní neighborhood.

## Day 13: Cartagena to Santa Marta

• Morning: Travel to Santa Marta (about 4-5 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Explore the local dining scene along the waterfront.

## Day 14: Tayrona National Park

• Morning: Take a day trip to Tayrona National Park. Hike through the park to reach beautiful beaches like Cabo San Juan.
• Afternoon: Spend the day swimming and relaxing on the beach.
• Evening: Return to Santa Marta and enjoy a farewell dinner.

## Day 15: Departure from Santa Marta

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or beach time.
• Afternoon: Depart from Santa Marta for your flight home or onward journey.

This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Colombia at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to soak in the culture, nature, and vibrant cities. Enjoy your trip! 🌎✈️