Colombia-7-day-itinerary

Colombia Travel Itinerary: 7 Days of Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Bogotá

  • Arrival: Arrive at El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in La Candelaria, the historic center of Bogotá.
  • Activity: Explore La Candelaria, visit the Plaza de Bolívar, and walk through the vibrant streets filled with street performers and live music.
  • Things to know: Colombia is a Spanish-speaking country, but many locals speak some English. The currency is Colombian Peso (COP).

Day 2: Bogotá

  • Breakfast: Try traditional Colombian breakfast at Café San Alberto or La Castilla.
  • Activity: Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
  • Lunch: Enjoy ajiaco, a hearty chicken soup, at a local restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Take a funicular ride to Monserrate, a mountain overlooking Bogotá, for stunning views.

Day 3: Medellín

  • Transportation: Fly from Bogotá to José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Medellín.
  • Accommodation: Stay in El Poblado, a trendy neighborhood with many restaurants and bars.
  • Activity: Explore the Comuna 13 neighborhood, once a troubled area now turned into a vibrant arts district.
  • Evening: Enjoy the famous Paisa nightlife at Parque Lleras or visit the rooftop bars in El Poblado.

Day 4: Medellín

  • Breakfast: Try arepas, traditional Colombian cornmeal patties, at a local café.
  • Activity: Visit the Botero Plaza, featuring 23 sculptures by Fernando Botero and other international artists.
  • Lunch: Savor bandeja paisa, a platter of rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, and avocado.
  • Afternoon: Take a Metrocable ride to Parque Arví for panoramic views of the city.

Day 5: Cartagena

  • Transportation: Fly from Medellín to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) in Cartagena.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Activity: Explore the colorful streets of Getsemaní, visit the Cartagena Cathedral, and walk along the ancient city walls.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the old town.

Day 6: Cartagena

  • Breakfast: Try café con leche and pastries at a local bakery.
  • Activity: Take a boat tour to the Rosario Islands, a coral archipelago perfect for snorkeling or simply relaxing on the beach.
  • Lunch: Savor fresh seafood at one of the island’s restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Visit the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest fortification in the Americas.

Day 7: Departure from Cartagena

  • Departure: Return to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) for your departure flight.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries do not need a visa to enter Colombia, but it’s always best to check with the Colombian government’s website or consult with the Colombian embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights: Avianca, LATAM, and Viva Air operate in Colombia.
  • Taxis: Yellow taxis are widely available, but consider using ride-hailing apps like Didi or Cabify for a safer experience.
  • Public Transportation: Medellín’s Metro system is efficient and easy to use.

Other Essentials:

  • Safety: Exercise caution when traveling, especially at night. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure.
  • Health: Colombia requires no specific vaccinations, but consult your doctor or a travel clinic for advice on medications and vaccinations.
  • Currency: Colombian Peso (COP) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Culture: Colombians are known for their warm hospitality. Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas.

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.
  • Try local fruits like mangoes, papayas, and maracuyás.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially in the Andean region.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities, giving you a well-rounded experience of Colombia’s beauty and charm. ¡Disfruta tu viaje!