Ultimate 3-Week Colombia Itinerary: A Journey Through Nature & Culture

💰 Money

• The local currency is the Colombian peso (COP).

• Exchange rate: Roughly 1 USD = 4,200 COP (rates fluctuate).

• In big cities, paying by card is common, but always carry some cash for street vendors, rural areas and emergencies.

• ATM fees are high and fairly standard across banks—expect to lose a bit on withdrawals if using a foreign card.

🗣 Language

• Knowing some Spanish will definitely help make your trip smoother, but it’s not essential.

• Many travelers get by just fine with English & Google Translate.

• Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way in making connections!

📱 SIM Card & Internet

• Where to buy: Grab a local SIM at the airport or in the city (cheaper).

• Cost: Super affordable—10GB for about 20,000 COP (~$5 USD). eSIMs are a bit pricier.

• Providers: Claro, Tigo, Movistar (Claro worked great in urban areas).

• Important: Bring your passport when purchasing a SIM.

• The main providers are Claro, Tigo, and Movistar—I used Claro, and it worked fine in all urban areas.

🚖 Transport

Taxis & Ride-Sharing 🚕

You will need to take a taxi at some point in Colombia, but to avoid getting overcharged or scammed,  I would strongly recommend only using Taxi via Uber app. Uber is technically illegal here, but it works just fine. You can request:

• A regular Uber ride (but you’ll have to sit in the front and act like you know the driver).
• A yellow taxi via Uber, which is a safer alternative to hailing one on the street.
  • Normally the wait time is much shorter for a yellow taxi, and you still get Uber level services of mapped route, driver information, safety alert and of course, estimated price.
  • While final price might vary depending on the traffic conditions it will not be double or triple which you would be risking with a taxi on the street.

Buses 🚌

• Intercity buses are a budget-friendly and safe way to travel long distances.

• They are comfortable but always late—not just by a few minutes.

• Pro tip: If you’re on a tight schedule, don’t book non-refundable tours or activities based on the bus’s “expected” arrival time.

With these tips in mind, you’re all set for an amazing adventure in Colombia!

Day 1 & 2: Exploring the Capital of Colombia – Bogotá

Day 1: Historical sites and heights

Bogotá, the largest city in Colombia with around 8 million residents, sits high in the Andes Mountains at approximately 2,600 meters above sea level. While it may lack Cartagena’s colonial charm, it has plenty to offer for history and art lovers. Compared to the more touristy Medellín and Cartagena, Bogotá feels like a more authentic Colombian experience.

Whenever I visit a new city, I always start with a walking tour, and Bogotá was no exception. I joined the Beyond Colombia Free Walking Tour, and I was seriously impressed by our guide’s storytelling skills. Bogotá is relatively safe these days (aside from the usual risk of pickpocketing), but its past is filled with conflict. We learned about the city’s turbulent history, from civil unrest to the infamous Siege of the Palace of Justice, which you might recognize from Narcos on Netflix. If you're looking for a tour that’s focused on history and fascinating stories rather than Instagrammable spots, this one is absolutely worth it!

👉 Free tour info: Beyond Colombia Free Walking Tour(Tours start at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM)

💡 Tip: The tour doesn’t allow much time to explore Bogotá’s colorful, graffiti-filled streets in La Candelaria, so I recommend coming back afterward to wander through its narrow streets and soak in the small-town feel in the middle of this bustling metropolis.

After the tour, a great place to rest your feet and refuel is La Puerta Falsa, one of the oldest restaurants in Bogotá (established in 1816!). It serves delicious, authentic local food at reasonable prices. The must-try dishes are ajiaco, a hearty chicken and potato soup that’s a Bogotá classic, and tamales, savory steamed corn dough filled with meats and vegetables. Come hungry—the portions are huge! There's usually a line, but it moves fairly quickly, even during peak hours. They also accept card payments, which is common in most Bogotá restaurants.

Another must-do in Bogotá is heading up to Monserrate Mountain. If you thought Bogotá was already high, Monserrate takes you even higher—3,152 meters above sea level! The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Since it’s close to the historic center, it’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, so don’t expect solitude—especially at sunset!

Getting to Monserrate is easy:

🚶 You can hike up the steep trail.

🚠 Or take a cable car (around $7 USD round trip, which you can book online).

Once at the top, enjoy the view, visit the Santuario del Señor de Monserrate, or grab a bite from one of the many food stalls.

💡 Sunset Tip: If you want to catch the sunset from Monserrate, arrive early—lines for the cable car can get crazy during peak hours!

🏨 Where I Stayed in Bogota: I booked a stay at Viajero Bogotá, a modern hostel that offers hotel-quality private rooms and even includes access to a Turkish spa. They also organize social activities and tours. Overall, I was really happy with my stay!

Day 2: Art, Gold, and a Taste of Bogotá

If you're into art, the Botero Museum in Bogotá is an absolute must—and the best part? It’s completely free! 🎨

Fernando Botero is famous for his distinctive style, characterized by exaggerated, voluminous figures, including his own version of the Mona Lisa. He generously donated over 120 pieces to the museum, which are displayed alongside works from world-renowned artists like Picasso, Monet, and Dalí. The museum is housed in a stunning colonial building and is connected to the Museo Casa de Moneda (the Coin and Currency Museum), which is also free to visit.

Another must-see museum in Bogotá is the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), home to the largest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts in the world. With over 55,000 pieces, it offers a fascinating look into the cultural and spiritual significance of gold in ancient Colombian civilizations (fun fact: gold was never used as currency back then!).

🎟️ Entry fee: A bargain at 5,000 COP (around $1 USD)—and it’s free on Sundays!

If you’ve had your fill of art and history, it's time for something delicious! A great way to explore Colombian cuisine is by joining the Bogotá Food Tour (More info here).

This tips-based tour takes you to five or six different spots to try traditional local dishes like arepas, empanadas, ice cream, and coffee—as well as the controversial capybara meat. Yes, you read that right! Capybaras are farmed for meat in Colombia, but I decided to pass on that experience—I’m not looking to expand my list of edible animals. 😅

💡 Heads-up: You’ll need to pay for each item separately, so bring some cash with you!

Day 3-5: Salento – A Palm Tree Paradise

If you have more than two weeks in Colombia, Salento is an absolute must! This charming town in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional architecture, and laid-back rural vibe.

Day 3 : Getting to Salento

There are two main ways to get to Salento from Bogotá:

🚌 By Bus (Budget-Friendly but Time-Consuming)

Taking the bus is the most affordable and eco-friendly option, but be prepared for a long travel day.

✔ Route:

• Take a bus from Bogotá’s Salitre Terminal to Armenia (8-10 hours).
• From Armenia, take a minibus to Salento (45-60 minutes).

✔ Important Notes:

• 🕗 Last minibus from Armenia to Salento: Around 8 PM—plan accordingly!
• 🚦 Expect delays! Buses in Colombia are rarely on time (I experienced delays of 2-4 hours).
• 🎟 Cost: Around $20 USD for the Bogotá–Armenia leg + $1.50 USD for the Armenia–Salento minibus.

💡 My Experience:
I took the bus, and after 12 hours on the road with delays, I regretted my choice. If I had to do it again, I’d definitely fly!

✈️ By Plane (Fast and Convenient)

If you’d rather save time, flying is the way to go.

✔ Route:

• Flight from Bogotá to Armenia (~1 hour).
• Taxi from Armenia Airport to the bus station (~15 minutes, $5 USD).
• Minibus from Armenia to Salento (~45-60 minutes).

✔ Why Choose This Option?

• ⏳ Much faster than the bus.
• 💰 Affordable if booked in advance (Flights start at $40 USD).
• 🛄 Check luggage policies! Budget fares often exclude baggage, so you might need to pay extra.

🚀 My Recommendation: If you can find a cheap flight, take it! The extra cost is worth saving hours of travel time.

Day 4: Exploring Cocora Valley

One of the biggest reasons to visit Salento is the breathtaking Cocora Valley—home to Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm, which grows up to an astonishing 60 meters tall! Hiking here means crossing wooden bridges, trekking through lush forests, and soaking in dramatic mountain views.

🚙 Getting There

• Best time to visit: Arrive at 7 AM when the park opens to avoid crowds.

• Transportation: Take a jeep willy from Salento’s main square—these iconic jeeps start running at 6 AM, and you can buy a return ticket on the spot.

🥾 Two Ways to Explore Cocora Valley:

🔹 For Scenic Views & Easy Walking

• If you’re after stunning scenery without too much effort, stick to the Cocora Valley National Park.

• The trails are well-marked, easy to walk, and filled with photo-worthy viewpoints.

• Expect to spend 2-3 hours, depending on how often you stop for pictures or to soak in the views.

🔹 For an Adventurous Full Hike

• If you enjoy hiking, consider doing the full Cocora Valley loop (trail details here)

• This route takes you beyond the palm forests into cloud forests, farmland, and a hummingbird sanctuary.

• Pro tip: Hike clockwise—this way, you’ll see the palm trees before the crowds arrive!

💡 Tips for an Amazing Experience

✅ The second half of the full hike can get muddy and slippery, so wear shoes with good grip.
✅ The trail passes through private land, so bring some cash for entrance fees.
✅ The Acaime Hummingbird House is nice (you’ll see colibris drinking from bird feeders), but it’s not spectacular—if you’re low on energy, you can skip it!
✅ No guide needed—the trail is safe and well-marked.

Day 5: Coffee Tour or Horseback Riding

Option 1: Coffee Tour ☕

Salento is surrounded by beautiful coffee farms (fincas) where you can learn about traditional coffee-growing methods and enjoy freshly brewed Colombian coffee. Guided tours often include hands-on experiences like picking coffee cherries and brewing fresh coffee. Prices start at 50,000 COP (~$11 USD) for a 3-hour group tour.

Option 2: Horseback Riding 🐎

Since I had already visited a coffee farm in Guatemala, I opted for a horseback riding tour—and it turned out to be one of the best experiences of my trip!

I booked a tour with Cabalgatas San Pablo, a highly rated ranch that’s within easy walking distance from most places in Salento. The owners are incredibly friendly, and even though they don’t speak much English, they make up for it with great hospitality and well-cared-for horses. The 3-hour ride takes you through lush forests, across rivers, and along scenic trails.

Highlights:

• The horses are gentle and well-trained, making the ride suitable for beginners.
• Guide Oscar Julián takes amazing photos while you cross rivers and rest along the riverbank.
• Tours run daily at 9 AM, and you can reserve via WhatsApp or just show up.
• Cost: 90,000 COP (~$21 USD)—a steal for such an unforgettable experience!

TripAdvisor Reviews

Exploring Salento Town

While most people come for Cocora Valley, the town of Salento itself is absolutely worth exploring! Spend a couple of hours wandering through its charming streets and viewpoints.

• Plaza de Bolívar & Calle Real: The main square and its surrounding streets are full of colorful colonial houses, artisan shops, and cozy cafés.
• Mirador Alto de la Cruz & Mirador de Salento: one viewpoint is overlooking the town and the other showcases the surrounding mountains. They are very close to each other and offer a great way to finish the day with a sunset view.

Day 6-9: Medellin & surroundings

Day 6: Getting to Medellín

The easiest way to get to Medellín from Salento is by direct bus. The journey covers 280 km and takes around 6 hours—but be warned, traffic can make it longer. Expect to pay about $18-19 USD for the ride.

Where to Stay in Medellín

Most travelers pick between El Poblado or Laureles:

• El Poblado – Lively, tourist-friendly, and packed with nightlife.
• Laureles – A quieter, modern area that feels safe and local.

I stayed at Indie Universe – Hotel for Creators in Laureles. It had modern, clean rooms, free breakfast, and a great location—highly recommend!

Day 7: Exploring Comuna 13 & Medellín’s City Center

Medellín has a ton of cool neighborhoods to explore, and there’s no set order to do it. But a great way to start is with Comuna 13 and the city center.

Comuna 13: A Story of Transformation

Once one of the most dangerous places in the world, Comuna 13 has completely turned itself around. Once plagued by cartel violence, gangs and armed conflicts, it’s now a vibrant, cultural hub filled with street art, music, and a sense of resilience.

A little history:

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Comuna 13 was heavily affected by violence due to its strategic location for drug trafficking. The situation reached a turning point in 2002 during Operation Orion, a controversial military intervention aimed at regaining control from armed groups. While the operation reduced violence, it caused significant human rights concerns. Since then, the community has worked hard to recover, embracing art, culture, and innovation as tools for change.

Today, Comuna 13 is famous for:

1. Graffiti Tours – The murals here tell powerful stories of hope, struggle, and social change.
2. Outdoor Escalators – Improve mobility for residents and offer a unique way to experience the area while enjoying panoramic views.
3. Street Performances – Communa 13 is quickly becoming a hip hop capital, as breakdancing and hip hop contributed to transforming the neighbourhood and served as a form of protest against violence.
4. Local Markets & Street Food – Grab some fresh fruit, empanadas, or a local drink while supporting small businesses.

Is Comuna 13 Safe? Absolutely! But going with a local guide will give you deeper insights into the history and the stories murals are telling.
Tour Options:

• Free (tip-based) tour: e.g. Zippy Tour
• Private guide (~$23 USD): You can hire one right at San Javier metro station.

Medellín’s City Center (El Centro)

Medellín’s downtown is gritty but fascinating. It’s full of history, street vendors, and contrasts—you’ll see stunning landmarks right next to chaotic market streets.

A great option to visit downtown is again with a tips based walking tour, however you can also visit the below sights independently:

• Plaza Botero – Home to 23 giant sculptures by Fernando Botero (each worth ~$2M!). Bonus: The artist donated them all to the city.
• Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe – A gothic-style cultural center with amazing rooftop views.
• San Antonio Plaza – A place of tragedy and resilience. The plaza witnessed a tragic bombing in 1995, kiling over 20 and injuring another 200 people. The bomb was placed near a Botero sculpture of a bird, and in response Botero donated another bird sculpture to the city. Now the two sculptures standing side by side—one shattered and the other intact—serves as a memorial to Medellín's resilience in the face of violence.
• Plaza Cisneros (Park of Lights) – A once-dangerous area now transformed with futuristic light installations.
• National Palace Mall – A historical government building turned shopping mall, with free art galleries on the upper floors.

If you choose to explore with a walking tour, I highly recommend Real City Tours—Pedro, our guide, made it feel like a mix of history lesson + stand-up comedy.

If you have extra time, check out:

• Catedral Metropolitana – One of the largest brick churches in the world.
• Junín Street – A lively pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and a true local vibe.
• Minorista Market – A bustling local market with fresh fruit, exotic foods, and traditional dishes.

Day 8: Exploring El Poblado & Riding the Metro Cable

Medellín’s Metro Cable: A Game-Changer

Medellín’s Metro Cable isn’t just a cool way to get around—it’s a symbol of transformation. Built to connect poor, hillside communities with the rest of the city, it’s one of the most innovative urban transport projects in the world.

It also offers some killer views:

• Line K – Amazing panoramic shots of the city and its valley (Acevedo → Santo Domingo).
• Line L – A scenic ride over forested areas (Santo Domingo → Parque Arví).
• Line J – The route to Comuna 13 (San Javier → La Aurora).

How to Ride: Get a Cívica card for cheaper fares (COP 2,880 per ride vs. COP 3,280 without).

Exploring El Poblado

El Poblado is Medellín’s fancy, modern district, filled with high-end apartments, trendy cafes, and lush parks. It’s also where a lot of expats and digital nomads stay (expect more expensive prices in this neighborhood)

Some key spots:

• El Poblado Park & La Presidenta Park – Chill green spaces perfect for a coffee break.
• Calle 10 – A street lined with cool murals, boutique shops, and street art.
• Provenza & Parque Lleras – The go-to areas for nightlife, bars, and clubs.

For something unique, check out Museo El Castillo—a French-style mansion and a museum, with beautiful gardens and city views.

Got extra time? Visit the Museum of Antioquia (Botero’s best paintings) or Pueblito Paisa, a mini replica of a traditional Colombian village with epic city views.

Day 9: Day Trip to Guatapé & Peñol Rock

Guatapé & Peñol Rock are a must when visiting Medellín!

Climbing Peñol Rock

Peñol Rock is a massive monolithic formation that stands 2,135 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rock itself rises dramatically from the surrounding valley, making it a striking feature in the region.

To reach the top, visitors must climb 740 steps, which are absolutely worth it given the view from the top. Once at the summit, you’re rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Guatapé Reservoir, small islands, lush green hills, and colorful homes scattered throughout the valley. It’s an incredible spot for photos.

Exploring Guatapé Village

After the climb, head to Guatapé, a colorful lakeside town known for its zócalos—decorative murals at the base of every building. The town feels like a fairytale with bright streets, cobblestone paths, and flower-filled balconies.

Optional: Take a boat ride on the Guatapé Reservoir to see hidden islands and even the ruins of Pablo Escobar’s old mansion.

How to Get There

1. Join a Day Tour ($25-30 USD) – Easiest way logistically, includes transport, a guide, and a boat ride. But expect crowds asyou will be visiting already very touristy locations at the same time as others.
2. 🚍 By public bus (~$4-5 USD) –Taking this option adds a bit of a hassle to your day , but offers a less touristy experience and more control of your time.
   • Take a bus from Medellín’s Terminal Norte (~2-2.5 hours).
   • Once in Guatapé, grab a taxi or minivan (~$4 USD) to Peñol Rock.

Pro tip: Buses leave every 30-60 minutes, but go early to beat the crowds!

Day 10: Getting to Santa Marta

This three-week itinerary includes the four-day Lost City Trek, which starts from Santa Marta. Since Santa Marta is over 800 km from Medellín, flying is the best option.

Once you land, you have two main transport choices:

• Minibus from the airport to Santa Marta – ~2,000 COP (~$0.50 USD)
• Taxi – ~30,000 COP (~$6-7 USD)

Pro tip: If you’re arriving after dark, taking a taxi is the safer option, as Santa Marta can be sketchy at night.

Days 11-14: Lost City Trek

Please refer to this blog post here for the selection of a Lost City Tour company, packing list, and a description of the experience itself.

If you're not much of a trekker but still like adventuring into unexplored lands, you can check out multi day tours to Guajira desert for desert landscapes, stunning beaches, and the indigenous Wayuu culture.

Days 15-16: Relax in Santa Marta or Minca

After four days of trekking to the Lost City, chances are you’ll be craving some serious downtime. Luckily, you have two great options: Santa Marta, if you’re in the mood for a city vibe, or Minca, if you’d rather unwind in a more secluded jungle location.

Santa Marta: City Comforts & Poolside Relaxation

If you’re missing the buzz of a city after days in the wilderness, Santa Marta is a solid option. It has a charming historic center, plenty of hotels with pools, and lots of spa and massage spots (you deserve that after the trek, wink wink). That said, Santa Marta itself isn’t the most exciting destination, so it’s best if you just want to kick back, enjoy some creature comforts, and recharge before your next adventure.

Where to Stay: I stayed at Viajero Hostel, which has dorms and hotel-quality private rooms, plus an in-house restaurant, bar, and a rooftop pool—perfect for unwinding.

Minca: Jungle Escape & Outdoor Adventures

Less than an hour from Santa Marta, Minca offers a completely different experience. This small village, tucked deep in the jungle, is all about nature, tranquility, and stunning mountain views. Most of the eco-lodges and hostels here are set outside the village center, often with incredible panoramic views and swimming pools to help you beat the jungle heat. Some even offer yoga classes and spa treatments—total bliss.

If you’re feeling a bit more active, Minca has some great outdoor spots to explore:

• Marinka Waterfalls & Pozo Azul – Cool off in these refreshing waterfalls or just relax in a hammock net, listening to the rushing water. You can hike there or take a moto-taxi (about 15,000 COP to Marinka). Entrance is 10,000 COP ($2-3 USD).
• Coffee & Cacao Tours – Learn about local coffee or chocolate production with a tour at one of Minca’s farms.
• Los Pinos – A scenic viewpoint perfect for catching a sunset.
• Birdwatching – Minca is a paradise for bird lovers! You can spot toucans, hummingbirds, and plenty of other tropical species. Birdwatching tours are super affordable here—about 75,000 COP ($17-18 USD) for a three-hour tour.

🚨 Heads up: The mosquitoes in Minca are relentless! Honestly, they were worse than on the Lost City Trek, so pack plenty of repellent.

Getting to Minca

• Shared Minivan (Cooperativo): The cheapest option—about 9,000 COP ($2 USD) from the Cootransminca office near Santa Marta’s public market. Just keep in mind you’ll probably have to wait for it to fill up, and it makes several stops along the way.
• Taxi: Faster but pricier—about 90,000 COP ($21 USD).

Got More Time?

If you have extra days in Colombia, you might also want to check out Palomino (a relaxed beach town perfect for chilling) or Taganga (a small coastal town known for diving and budget-friendly vibes).

Day 17: Visit Tayrona National Park

If you only have one day to explore Tayrona, the best way to experience its stunning landscapes is by hiking from El Zaino entrance (one of the park’s multiple access points) to Cabo San Juan.

This out-and-back hike covers about 12 km round-trip. While AllTrails estimates a 3-hour hike, you’ll want to budget much more time—you’ll inevitably stop along the way to admire playful monkeys, massive rock formations, sky-high palm trees, and pristine beaches.

Your final destination, Cabo San Juan Beach, is the park’s most famous spot. It’s framed by towering palm trees and features a picturesque viewpoint hut perched on a rock.  This is a perfect place to snap some photos, sip a cold beer, and take a refreshing swim. Just be mindful that not all beaches in Tayrona are safe for swimming due to strong currents! If you get hungry, there’s a restaurant and drink stalls nearby.

👉 Trail details & map: AllTrails: Entrada Tayrona - Cabo San Juan

Getting There & Practical Tips

🚍 By public bus:

• Buses leave from Santa Marta’s Public Market and stop at both El Zaino and Calabazo entrances.
• The ride takes 1-1.5 hours, and costs around 10,000-12,000 COP ($3 USD).
• The El Zaino stop is easy to recognize—most tourists (both local and foreign) will get off here.

🚖 By taxi:

• A direct taxi from Santa Marta costs around 170,000-190,000 COP ($34-40 USD).

🎟 Entrance Fee:

• The entrance fee is 87,000 COP ($20 USD)—a bit pricey, but worth it.

🚐 Shuttle to Trailhead:

• Once inside, you can either walk or take a shuttle (3,000-5,000 COP) to the Cañaveral trailhead, which cuts out about an hour (5 km) of walking.
• Tip: Even if you love hiking, I recommend taking the shuttle—the walk isn’t scenic, just a roadside path with cars passing by.

🍽 Food & Drinks:

• There are food and drink stalls throughout the park, but bringing your own snacks is much more budget-friendly.

⏰ Avoid the Crowds:

• Tayrona is VERY popular, and the trails can feel like a hiking traffic jam by late morning.
• Get there as early as possible—the park opens at 8 AM.

Alternative 2-Day Tayrona Route

For a less crowded, more immersive Tayrona experience, enter via Calabazo instead.

🛤 The route:

• Start at Calabazo entrance (same bus from Santa Marta).
• This hike is more challenging but takes you through quieter sections of the park with better chances to spot wildlife.
• Spend the night inside the park at Cabo San Juan in a hammock, tent, or a bungalow (if available).

🌅 Why do this route?

• Day visitors must leave by 5 PM, but if you stay overnight, you get to experience sunset and sunrise in Tayrona with way fewer people.
• On Day 2, hike out via El Zaino and catch a bus back to Santa Marta.

👉 Trail details & map: AllTrails: Colinas de Calabazo - Parque Nacional Tayrona

Days 18-20: Discovering the Magic of Cartagena

Getting There

Cartagena is about a four-hour journey from Santa Marta. The best way to get there is by bus from the Santa Marta Terminal de Transportes to the Terminal de Cartagena. Be prepared for possible delays due to traffic. Also, keep in mind that the bus station in Cartagena is quite far from the walled city (where you’ll likely be staying)—about a 45-minute taxi ride.

Exploring Cartagena

Cartagena needs no introduction. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's famous for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant facades, and Caribbean vibes. If you’re a fan of Netflix’s 100 Years of Solitude, based on Gabriel García Márquez’s novel, you’ll be thrilled to know that Cartagena heavily inspired the magical realism in his works.

Spend your first day exploring the walled city and the colorful Getsemaní district, then dedicate your second day to unwinding on the breathtaking Rosario Islands. I highly recommend a walking tour—Cartagena’s history is rich and complex, and a guide will help you understand the city’s deep ties to the transatlantic slave trade and the fight for independence from Spain, which have shaped its unique Afro-Caribbean culture.

For a great walking tour, check out these options:

• Free Walking Tour of the Walled City

• Free Walking Tour of the Walled City & Getsemaní

After the tour, enjoy golden hour on the city walls with a cold beer in hand (street vendors ensure you won’t go thirsty) while soaking in a stunning Caribbean sunset. Once night falls, Getsemaní is the place to be, with trendy bars and budget-friendly drinks perfect for a night out.

The next day, recover on the beaches of the Rosario Islands—one of the most popular day trips from Cartagena. This archipelago, about an hour away by boat, is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and snorkeling opportunities. Just a heads-up: these day trips aren’t cheap, averaging between $80 to $110 per person. Most tours include round-trip boat transportation, lunch, and access to beach facilities.

Additional Attractions

If you have extra time in Cartagena, consider checking out:

• San Felipe de Barajas Fort – A massive colonial fortress offering panoramic views of the city and tunnels to explore.

• Sunset Boat Tour – Several companies offer three-hour boat tours starting at around $20, which include drinks (beer and plenty of rum), music, and a lively atmosphere.

• Palenque Half-Day Tour – You’ve probably seen the Palenqueras—Afro-Colombian women in colorful dresses balancing fruit baskets on their heads. They make a living posing for photos in Cartagena, but for a deeper dive into Afro-Colombian history, traditions, and the Palenquero language, visit San Basilio de Palenque, the first free town of formerly enslaved people in the Americas.

A Word of Caution

While Cartagena is stunning, it also attracts more tourists than other Colombian cities—meaning more hawkers, scammers, and pickpockets. Be extra mindful of your belongings, especially after a few drinks. Also, avoid regular taxis; many drivers agree on a price but won’t clarify the currency (COP or USD). Stick to Uber to avoid getting ripped off.