16 day itinerary for Colombia

Itinerary

Colombia is a vibrant country with a rich tapestry of cultures, climates, and cuisines. With 16 days to explore, you can experience everything from the lush Amazon rainforest to the stunning Caribbean coast, and from the bustling cities to the serene countryside. Here’s a fun and diverse itinerary that will take you through some of the best that Colombia has to offer!

## Day 1: Arrival in Bogotá

• Morning: Arrive in Bogotá, the capital city. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to La Candelaria, the historic district. Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) and the Botero Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try ajiaco, a traditional soup.

## Day 2: Bogotá

• Morning: Take a cable car up to Monserrate for stunning views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the Usaquén neighborhood, known for its artisan market and charming streets.
• Evening: Sample local street food at the Usaquén market or dine at a trendy restaurant.

## Day 3: Zipaquirá and Salt Cathedral

• Morning: Take a day trip to Zipaquirá (about 1.5 hours from Bogotá) to visit the famous Salt Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Explore the town of Zipaquirá, enjoy lunch, and visit the local shops.
• Evening: Return to Bogotá and relax at your hotel.

## Day 4: Fly to Medellín

• Morning: Fly to Medellín (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Comuna 13, known for its street art and transformation. Take a guided tour to learn about its history.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the El Poblado area, known for its vibrant nightlife.

## Day 5: Medellín

• Morning: Visit the Botanical Garden and the nearby Parque Explora.
• Afternoon: Take the Metrocable to Parque Arví for a nature walk and lunch at a local eatery.
• Evening: Explore the nightlife in Medellín, perhaps catch a live music show.

## Day 6: Coffee Region (Manizales)

• Morning: Travel to Manizales (about 4 hours by bus or a short flight).
• Afternoon: Check into a coffee farm for a tour. Learn about coffee production and enjoy a tasting.
• Evening: Dinner at the farm or a local restaurant.

## Day 7: Coffee Region (Salento)

• Morning: Head to Salento, a picturesque town in the coffee region. Explore the colorful streets.
• Afternoon: Hike in the Cocora Valley to see the towering wax palms.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional bandeja paisa for dinner.

## Day 8: Fly to Cartagena

• Morning: Travel to Pereira and fly to Cartagena (or take a bus if you prefer).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the walled city. Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.
• Evening: Dinner in the Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art.

## Day 9: Cartagena

• Morning: Take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands for some beach time and snorkeling.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a beachside lunch and relax.
• Evening: Return to Cartagena and stroll through the historic streets at sunset.

## Day 10: Santa Marta

• Morning: Travel to Santa Marta (about 4 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the historic center.
• Evening: Dinner at a seaside restaurant, trying fresh seafood.

## Day 11: Tayrona National Park

• Morning: Take a day trip to Tayrona National Park. Hike to the beautiful beaches like Cabo San Juan.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach, swim, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Evening: Return to Santa Marta for dinner.

## Day 12: Fly to Barranquilla

• Morning: Travel to Barranquilla (about 1.5 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Explore the city, visit the Museo del Caribe, and learn about the local culture.
• Evening: Try the local dish, arepas de huevo, for dinner.

## Day 13: Fly to Leticia (Amazon)

• Morning: Fly to Leticia (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Take a boat tour on the Amazon River, visiting local communities.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, trying Amazonian cuisine.

## Day 14: Amazon Exploration

• Morning: Take a guided tour into the jungle. Look for wildlife and learn about the ecosystem.
• Afternoon: Visit a local indigenous community and learn about their culture.
• Evening: Return to Leticia for dinner and relax.

## Day 15: Fly back to Bogotá

• Morning: Fly back to Bogotá.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or visit any sites you missed earlier.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying some Colombian wine.

## Day 16: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some final sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary gives you a taste of Colombia's diverse climates, foods, and cultures, from the high Andes to the lush Amazon and the beautiful Caribbean coast. Enjoy your adventure! If you have any specific interests or adjustments, feel free to let me know!