From the rhythms of salsa echoing through Cartagena’s cobbled streets to the mist-covered trails of the Amazon jungle, Colombia is a country that stirs the soul. In just 10 days, you can journey from lively urban centers to serene coffee hills, and from white-sand Caribbean beaches to deep, biodiverse rainforests. This itinerary gives you the perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure, without rushing through Colombia’s richly diverse regions.
Let’s dive into how to make the most of 10 unforgettable days in this remarkable country!
Your journey begins in Bogotá, Colombia’s bustling capital. This high-altitude metropolis is often overlooked as just a stopover, but it’s well worth two days of exploration.
Bogotá’s elevation can cause mild altitude sickness. Take it slow on your first day and stay hydrated. The weather is changeable, bring layers and an umbrella.
Fly to Medellín (a 1-hour flight from Bogotá), a city transformed from its dark past into one of Latin America’s most innovative urban centers. It's modern, creative, and full of energy.
Stay in El Poblado or Laureles, which are both safe and centrally located neighbourhoods. Taxis are affordable, but for better safety and clarity, use ride-hailing apps like InDriver or Cabify. If Colombia is just the first leg of a broader South American adventure and you’re heading toward Brazil afterward, it’s wise to check travel documentation well in advance.
Stay in El Poblado or Laureles, which are both safe and centrally located neighbourhoods. Taxis are affordable, but for better safety and clarity, use ride-hailing apps like InDriver or Cabify. If you're planning to extend your Colombian adventure or need to check your immigration status while in the country, on the online Check-MIG application through Colombia's official migration portal.
Colombia in 10 Days
Day 1-2: Bogotá, The Cultural and Historical Gateway
- Altitude: 2,640 meters (8,660 ft)
- Average temperature: 9–20°C (48–68°F)
Your journey begins in Bogotá, Colombia’s bustling capital. This high-altitude metropolis is often overlooked as just a stopover, but it’s well worth two days of exploration.
Things to do:
- La Candelaria: Wander through the historical centre, where colonial architecture and vibrant murals collide. Visit cafés, galleries, and book stores tucked into 400-year-old buildings.
- Museo del Oro (Gold Museum): Home to one of the world’s largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
- Monserrate: Take a funicular up to this mountain-top church for sweeping views of the sprawling city.
- Usaquén Sunday Market: A great spot for handmade crafts, local food, and music, especially if you're in town over the weekend.
Tips:
Bogotá’s elevation can cause mild altitude sickness. Take it slow on your first day and stay hydrated. The weather is changeable, bring layers and an umbrella.
Day 3-4: Medellín, The City of Eternal Spring
- Altitude: 1,495 meters (4,905 ft)
- Average temperature: 17–28°C (62–82°F)
Fly to Medellín (a 1-hour flight from Bogotá), a city transformed from its dark past into one of Latin America’s most innovative urban centers. It's modern, creative, and full of energy.
Things to do:
- Comuna 13: Once among the most dangerous neighbourhoods, it’s now a powerful symbol of transformation, covered in street art and alive with hip-hop and community spirit. Take a guided tour with a local.
- Metrocable Ride: Medellín’s gondola-style transit system connects neighbourhoods and offers panoramic views of the city.
- Museum of Antioquia: Home to an impressive collection of Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures and paintings.
- Parque Arví: Just a cable car ride away, this ecological nature reserve offers hiking, birdwatching, and artisan markets.
Logistics:
Stay in El Poblado or Laureles, which are both safe and centrally located neighbourhoods. Taxis are affordable, but for better safety and clarity, use ride-hailing apps like InDriver or Cabify. If Colombia is just the first leg of a broader South American adventure and you’re heading toward Brazil afterward, it’s wise to check travel documentation well in advance.
Stay in El Poblado or Laureles, which are both safe and centrally located neighbourhoods. Taxis are affordable, but for better safety and clarity, use ride-hailing apps like InDriver or Cabify. If you're planning to extend your Colombian adventure or need to check your immigration status while in the country, on the online Check-MIG application through Colombia's official migration portal.
Day 5–6: The Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero) – Green Hills and Wax Palms
- Closest airports: Armenia (AXM), Pereira (PEI)
- Base town: Salento
The Coffee Triangle, made up of Quindío, Caldas, and Risaralda, is Colombia’s agricultural heartland and a UNESCO-recognised cultural landscape. Base yourself in Salento, a colourful, slow-paced town surrounded by lush mountains.
What to Do:
- Visit a Coffee Finca: Learn how Colombia’s most iconic export is grown, harvested, and roasted. Some of the best tours include tastings, bean picking, and traditional processing methods.
- Hike the Cocora Valley: Home to the world's tallest palm trees (wax palms), this surreal landscape makes for an unforgettable trek. You can take a 4-6 hour loop trail or do shorter hikes. Don’t forget your camera.
Tips:
- Bring hiking boots or sturdy shoes; trails can get muddy.
- Early morning hikes are best to avoid afternoon rain showers.
- Consider a stay at a traditional farmhouse (finca) for the full rural Colombian experience.
Day 7-8: Tayrona National Park, Where Jungle Meets the Caribbean
- Access point: Santa Marta Park
- Entrance: El Zaino or Calabazo
Few places in the world offer a more dramatic meeting of jungle and sea than Tayrona National Park. Here, rainforest-covered hills tumble down to white-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waves.
Bring your passport for park entry and buy tickets online in advance, especially in high season (Dec–Feb and June–August). You can stay in eco-lodges, rustic cabins, or camp in a hammock under the stars. Pack light and use dry bags; humidity and occasional rain are guaranteed.
Finish your trip in Cartagena, Colombia’s crown jewel on the Caribbean coast. With its perfectly preserved colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and Afro-Caribbean culture, it’s the ideal grand finale.
Wander the Walled City: Cartagena’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobbled streets, flower-laden balconies, and pastel buildings.
It’s hot - stay hydrated and wear light clothing. At night, the city comes alive. Join a rum tasting tour or take a salsa class to close out your trip with rhythm.
Colombia isn’t a country you can fully absorb in one visit - but this 10-day itinerary gives you a meaningful and balanced introduction. With a blend of historic cities, cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and natural wonders, you’ll leave with more than just memories; you’ll leave with stories.
What to Do:
- Hike to Cabo San Juan: From El Zaino, it’s a scenic 2-3 hour hike through the jungle, past beaches and coconut palms.
- Relax on the Beach: Playa Cristal and La Piscina are safer for swimming. Always follow local swimming advisories; many beaches have strong currents.
- Spot Wildlife: The park is home to monkeys, iguanas, toucans, and even elusive jaguars (though rarely seen).
Logistics:
Bring your passport for park entry and buy tickets online in advance, especially in high season (Dec–Feb and June–August). You can stay in eco-lodges, rustic cabins, or camp in a hammock under the stars. Pack light and use dry bags; humidity and occasional rain are guaranteed.
Day 9-10: Cartagena, Romance, Color, and Caribbean Vibes
- Climate: Hot and humid year-round
- Altitude: Sea level
Finish your trip in Cartagena, Colombia’s crown jewel on the Caribbean coast. With its perfectly preserved colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and Afro-Caribbean culture, it’s the ideal grand finale.
What to Do:
Wander the Walled City: Cartagena’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobbled streets, flower-laden balconies, and pastel buildings.
- Visit Castillo de San Felipe: This 16th-century fortress offers panoramic views and a dose of colonial history.
- Getsemaní: The bohemian neighbourhood is packed with street art, live music, and open-air cafés.
- Rosario Islands day trip: Spend a day snorkelling or relaxing on white-sand beaches with crystal-clear water.
Tips:
It’s hot - stay hydrated and wear light clothing. At night, the city comes alive. Join a rum tasting tour or take a salsa class to close out your trip with rhythm.
Final Thoughts
Colombia isn’t a country you can fully absorb in one visit - but this 10-day itinerary gives you a meaningful and balanced introduction. With a blend of historic cities, cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and natural wonders, you’ll leave with more than just memories; you’ll leave with stories.
