Colombia
July 2021, I had a one way flight to Medellín, without an idea of where I was going or how long I would stay. Little did I know, Colombia is truly a traveler’s dream. Relatively efficient transportation, kind locals, attractions catering to people with a whole spectrum of interests and budgets. There is really something for everyone. Now, where to start? If you don’t have time restraints, it’s a place where you don’t really need to have a concrete plan since the country is decently interconnected. If you have less than 2 or 3 weeks though, or high ambitions of going everywhere and seeing everything, best to start planning. Regardless, it’s good to have some inspiration of what there is to see and do in this spectacular and diverse country
Time Frame
What if you only have a week? A month? Heck, why not stay a year? I’ve considered it. Luckily, Colombia is relatively budget friendly and easy to get around. Below are some sample itineraries which can be modified or combined
NOTE: the time recommendations are the absolute bare minimum needed to hit the destinations. More time spent in fewer places is always my preference, but adapt as needed
* Each below destination will be linked with the respective regional la jaimita guide
The Main Attractions (10 days)
This route hits the must-sees. A bit of history, culture, and party. It can be traveled in almost any order, so I would plan based off of flight availability in and out of the country. For example, maybe it’s cheapest to fly into Medellín and out of Bogotá. Or maybe you’re sailing from Panama and starting in Cartagena – which you should totally do by the way. Play around with itineraries and it will likely be possible
City & Countryside Antioquia (7-10 DAys)
Antioquia is the region in which Medellín is the capital. I like this itinerary as Medellín is my personal favorite of all of the cities in Colombia, and the countryside is undeniably beautiful and a complete contrast to the city. This itinerary requires quite a bit of time in a bus and/or car, but in my opinion, very worth it
Note: Jericó is the more local version of Jardín. Read my post about the two and make a decision if visiting both suits your interests, as my personal highlight of Jericó was actually the journey there. Spending more time in less places though has it’s advantages
Coffee Region (7-10 days)
The perfect mix of small town and city life. Trek amongst the world’s tallest palm trees, tour world famous coffee plantations, and explore the colorful pueblos. If you have a week or less, consider choosing between Medellín and Bogota
The North (10-14 Days)
A Bit of Adventure (7-10 days)
Off The Beaten Path (5-7 days)
The Party Route (7-10 days)
Other Destinations:
These destinations can easily be added to any of the above itineraries:
Cali: For those who want to live, breathe, eat salsa dancing. If you’re not interested in Salsa though, there isn’t much else to see here
San Andres/Providencia: Islands which are technically Colombia but are geographically much closer to Nicaragua. Providencia is the nicer of the two, however as of summer spring 2022, it is still being rebuilt from a hurricane in 2020. San Andres however has many beach side resorts if sipping a cocktail on the beach is the vibe you’re going for
Barranquilla: Home to Shakira and Sofía Vergara. If you happen to be in Colombia during Carnival, it may be worth a visit
San Agustín: A small mountain town with some interesting archaeological ruins
Of note: Colombia requires a return ticket. Many times I’m just asked when I’m planning on leaving and where I am going, while other times I was prompted to show a confirmation of an exit ticket. For shorter trips, this probably isn’t an issue. But if you’re just going where the wind takes you – some creativity with cancellation policies and modifiable tickets may be in order. Do with that what you will