Introduction
Armed with tips from friends and endless planning, we set out for a fast-paced, flavor-packed Colombian journey — crossing cities, islands, mountains, and coffee farms in just 8 days. Expect frequent flights, stunning hikes, local food, and fleeting moments of beachside calm in between.
This guide is for the curious traveler looking to blend culture, adventure, and nature into one unforgettable trip.
Trip Summary
- Duration: 8 days
- Route: Cartagena → Islas Rosario → Tayrona → Medellín → Guatapé → Coffee Region → Bogotá
- Style: Flight-based itinerary, medium-intensity hiking, local immersion, some relaxation
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cartagena – Colonial Charms Unveiled
Main Highlights
Our Colombian adventure began in Cartagena, where every street in the Old Town felt like a movie set — colorful walls, bougainvillea-covered balconies, and colonial flair. We wandered aimlessly (the best way!), stopped for street food, and soaked in the Caribbean rhythm. We considered a cooking class (Airbnb, €34/person, 90 mins), but let spontaneity lead the way.
Accommodation: Hotel Selina, central and stylish
Transportation: Walk everywhere — Old Town is compact and walkable
Tips:
- Dine early — some local spots close by 9 PM
- Catch sunset at Café del Mar or the old city walls
Day 2: Islas Rosario – Island Bliss and Luminescent Plankton Magic
Main Highlights
We hopped on our hotel’s ferry to IslaBela in the Rosario Islands (1-hour boat ride). The day was pure bliss — clear turquoise water, quiet island life, and sunset views from a hidden pier with a local guide. After dark, we joined a boat tour to see bioluminescent plankton — surreal and unmissable.
Accommodation: Hotel IslaBela — calm, simple, surrounded by nature
Transportation: Hotel-arranged boat to/from Cartagena
Tips:
- Book the plankton tour directly with your hotel
- There’s no ATMs on the island — bring cash
Day 3: Kayaking in Islas Rosario and road to Tayrona
Main Highlights
Our morning started with kayaking around the mangroves of Islas Rosario — peaceful and immersive. After lunch, we took the return boat to Cartagena and hit the road for Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast.
Accommodation: Hotel Senda Koguiwa — just 10 mins from the park entrance
Transportation: Boat → Cartagena → 5-hour private shuttle to Tayrona (hotel-organized)
Tips:
- Uber is cheaper but may not be as reliable for long distances
- Avoid traveling late — roads to Tayrona get dark and remote
🦞 Pro tip: On some beaches local fishermen arrive by boat offering fresh lobsters cooked on the spot and often served with patacones. They are a delicious and affordable treat (around $20 for a small lobster) – and an authentic island experience you won’t want to miss.
Day 4: Tayrona National Park – Nature’s Playground
Main Highlights
Tayrona National Park is a natural wonder — we hiked shaded jungle trails that opened onto wild beaches. It’s hot, but the views and wildlife (monkeys, birds, lizards) are unforgettable.
Accommodation: Hotel Senda Koguiwa (again, worth it)
Transportation: Uber to Santa Marta Airport (40 minutes from the hotel) → flight to Medellín → Uber to hotel
Tips:
- Start your hike early to beat the heat
- Bring a swimsuit and plenty of water
Day 5: Medellin – City of Eternal Spring
Main Highlights
We explored El Poblado, visited Plaza Botero, and joined an Airbnb walking tour through Comuna 13 with a local from the neighbourhood, one of Medellín’s most vibrant ones. From street art to storytelling, it was a deep dive into the city’s transformation.
Accommodation: Boutique hotel in El Poblado — trendy and walkable
Transportation: Uber around the city is easy and affordable
Tips:
- Book your Comuna 13 tour in advance
- Try bandeja paisa (local dish) at a family-owned restaurant
Day 6: Guatapé and Piedra del Peñol – A Colorful Retreat
Main Highlights
We day-tripped to Guatapé and climbed Piedra del Peñol — 700+ stairs to epic views. The town itself is a technicolor dream, but the tourist crowds were overwhelming (we had to skip our tour and take a 3 hour Uber back to Medellin to make it to our flight). A beautiful stop, but go early or off-season for peace.
Accommodation: Flew to Pereira in the evening, stayed at Hotel Spa La Colina
Transportation: Flight + hotel shuttle
Tips:
- Still worth it for the views, but set expectations
- Skip weekends for Guatapé if you want a quieter experience
Day 7: Valle del Cocora – Coffee Farms and Scenic Landscapes
Main Highlights
Our day in Salento and the Cocora Valley was a perfect mix of coffee culture and stunning scenery. We visited Finca las Brisas and Finca Buenos Aires, learning the craft from bean to cup. The valley’s iconic wax palms made it feel like walking through a fantasy world.
Accommodation: Flew to Bogotá in the evening for our final night
Transportation: Uber to Cocora → flight to Bogotá
Tips:
- Salento and nearby Filandia are worth an extended stay if you have time
- Weather changes fast – bring layers
Day 8: Bogotá – One Last Taste
We wrapped up our adventure in Bogotá with a relaxed final day. After a week of moving nonstop, we took our time wandering through Museo Botero, a cultural gem filled with the whimsical art of Fernando Botero and other Latin American masters.
For our final meal, we went all in at Andrés Carne de Res, an iconic Colombian restaurant-meets-carnival known for its wild decor, music, and grilled meats. It’s a full-on experience, more than just dinner. There is one in the city center if you cannot reach the famous one in the outskirts of the city.
Accommodation: Hotel near the airport (for convenience)
Transportation: Uber to the museum and airport
Tips:
- Museo Botero is free and located in the charming La Candelaria district
- Reserve a table at Andrés Carne de Res if you’re going for dinner — it gets busy and lively fast
- Bogotá’s elevation makes it noticeably cooler — bring a jacket
Colombia Travel Tips & Advice
- Uber = Lifesaver in most cities: easy, safe, and cheap
- Flights over buses: Inexpensive, time-saving, and well-connected
- Tayrona: Wear good shoes and pack light for your day hikes
- Guatapé: Gorgeous but crowded — avoid weekends or go early
- Coffee Region: Spend more than a day if possible
- Safety: Colombia felt safe, but always stay alert in busy areas
What to Bring
- Quick-dry clothing for hot/humid zones
- Hiking shoes or trail sandals
- Swimwear + reef-safe sunscreen
- Bug spray (trust us)
- Lightweight jacket for Bogotá & Salento
- Reusable water bottle
Final Thoughts
Colombia is color, contrast, and culture all in one. From Caribbean coastlines to jungle hikes and Andean towns, this trip was a whirlwind that left us wanting more. With smart planning, light bags, and an open mind, Colombia gives you everything and more.
Boarding Beats 