14 Day Carribean adventure & Vibrant Medellin

💰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 1-4: Medellin & surroundings

This 2-week itinerary starts with visiting Medelling, a vibrant Colombian metropolis that have something to offer for every kind of traveler. Get ready to fall in love with this unique city where history, modernity, and excitement meet in the most surprising ways!

Day 1: 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 2: 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 3: 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 4: 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 5: Getting to 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)

If you have time upon arrival, you can explore Santa Marta's historic center with lots of cafes, bars and , of course, street art.

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

This itinerary does not include more days in Santa Marta before heading to Minca, as the city itself isn’t the most exciting destination compared to Medellin or Cartagena, so your time is better spent in other locations.

Days 6-7: Minca

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, 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).

If you're up for a more active adventure, check out this 4-day jungle hike to the Lost City.

Day 8-9: Visit Tayrona National Park

Getting There & Practical Tips

🚍 By public bus:

• Buses leave from Santa Marta’s Public Market and stop at both El Zaino and Calabazo entrances
  • yes, you will need to get back to Santa Marta from Minca
• 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.

1-Day Tayrona Itinerary

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

2-Day Tayrona Itinerary

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 10-13: Discovering the Magic of Cartagena

Day 10: 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.

Day 11: Exploring Cartagena's Walled City & Getsemani

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. 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.

Day 12: Beaches & Islands

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.

Day 13: Continuos Cartagena Adventures: Exploring San Felipe Fortress & Sunset Boat Tours

San Felipe de Barajas Fort – A Massive Fortress with Epic Views 🏰

Ready for a history lesson with a view? San Felipe de Barajas Fort is one of Cartagena's most famous landmarks, and for good reason! Here’s why you can’t miss it:

• Massive & Historic: This fortress was built to protect Cartagena from pirates and invaders back in the day, and it still stands strong.
• Hidden Tunnels: Wander through its maze of secret tunnels and passageways – you’ll feel like you’re exploring an ancient treasure chest.
• Unbeatable Views: Once you reach the top, you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city, the Caribbean Sea, and the colorful rooftops of the Old Town. It’s the perfect spot for photos and soaking in the city’s beauty.

If you’re a history lover or just love great views, this is a must-see spot! 😎

Sunset Boat Tour – Drinks, Music, and Magical Views 🚤🌅

Want to experience Cartagena from a whole new angle? A sunset boat tour is the way to go! Here’s why it’s such a vibe:

• 3 Hours of Fun: Several companies offer 3-hour boat tours that start in the late afternoon, just in time for the sunset! Best part is, it's only around 20 USD! 
• Drinks & Music: Enjoy a cold beer or rum cocktail while vibing to music onboard. It’s like a floating party on the Caribbean Sea. 🍻🎶
• Chill Atmosphere: The boat has a relaxed, festive vibe, perfect for chilling with friends, a loved one, or just soaking in the scenery solo.
• Stunning Sunset Views: As the sun sets over the water, you’ll see Cartagena’s coastline light up in beautiful hues of orange, pink, and purple – a view you’ll never forget. 🌅

This tour is hands down one of the best ways to end your day in Cartagena! It’s all about good vibes, drinks, and the best sunset you could ask for. 🌊

Got More Time?

Aim for 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.