12-Day Central Colombia Itinerary: Vibrant Cities and Stunning Palm Trees

🌦 Climate

Colombia has a tropical climate, meaning temperatures stay fairly consistent year-round. However, conditions vary significantly by region:

• Bogotá: Always jacket weather due to its high altitude.

• Medellín: Enjoys its famous "eternal spring" climate.

• Cartagena: Expect hot and humid weather.

If you want to avoid heavy rains, the best time to visit is December–March or July–August, when most of the country has relatively dry weather.

💰 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 1-3: Exploring the Capital of Colombia – Bogotá

Day 1: Getting to Bogota

Start your journey in Colombia’s high-altitude capital, Bogotá. Nestled in the Andean region, Bogotá is known for its historical significance, museums, and stunning views. Compared to the more touristy Medellín and Cartagena, Bogotá feels like a more authentic Colombian experience, so spend the first few days soaking in the city’s atmosphere. 

Day 2: Historical sites and heights

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 3: 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!

💡 Do you have more days?

Then take a day trip to Zipaquirá, a charming town just an hour away, famous for its underground Salt Cathedral. This cathedral, carved within a salt mine, is an incredible feat of architecture and spirituality.

Day 4-7: 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 4 : 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 5: 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 6: 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

Day 7: Exploring Salento Town

After your adventures in the stunning Cocora Valley, it’s time to kick back and explore the laid-back charm of Salento town. Sure, people usually come here for the valley, but the town is just as delightful and totally worth a wander! Take your time to soak in the vibe.

Here's how to spend your day in Salento:

✨ Plaza de Bolívar & Calle Real

• Start in the heart of town at Plaza de Bolívar—the main square. It’s full of color, life, and local charm.
• Check out the artisanal shops for cool handmade items—think colorful jewelry, woven bags, and other unique souvenirs.
• Wander down Calle Real—this lively street is lined with colorful colonial houses, cozy cafés, and little boutiques. Grab a coffee and just enjoy the vibe.

🌅 Mirador Alto de la Cruz & Mirador de Salento

• Ready for some amazing views? Climb the 200+ steps up to Mirador Alto de la Cruz—the view of Salento and the valley is seriously stunning!
• Just a short walk away is Mirador de Salento, where you get a different but equally gorgeous view of the mountains.
• Pro tip: These spots are perfect for catching a sunset. The sky lights up in beautiful shades of orange and pink—an epic way to end your day in Salento!

Day 8-11: Medellin & surroundings

Day 8: 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 9: 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 10: 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 11: 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!

💡 Do you have more days in Medellin?

Take a salsa dancing class in one of many salsa schools in the city or head directly to La 70 or El Eslabón Prendido to practice together with the locals!