2 Weeks in Colombia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Welcome to Colombia! Your great cities getaway begins in Bogotá, where you'll shrug off jet lag while exploring independently and get hands-on during a cooking class. Then, transfer to colorful Salento and spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation tucked within a coffee estate and wandering the town's cobblestone streets. Discover the nearby Valle de Cocora's lush landscapes the following day on a hike of your choice before diving into the town's history during a guided tour. Next, board a flight bound north for Medellín and discover its many modern wonders during a self-guided walk and a Metrocable tour.

While staying in Medellín, seize the chance to explore the charming lakeside town of Guatapé and climb the impressive El Peñón de Guatapé (the Rock of Guatapé), then fly to Santa Marta on Day 9 and make your way to Tayrona National Park. There, trade urban scenes for two days amid the park's rainforests, pristine beaches, and wildlife-abundant mangroves. Continue to Cartagena, where a free day offers the option of a city tour, a dip in natural mud baths, or relaxation time on a white-sand beach. Round off your trip with a beach day out to the Rosario Islands before catching your departing flight. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Colombia's Caribbean Coast & Lost City Trek

Ideal for travelers who love lacing up their hiking boots and exploring on their own two feet, this Colombia adventure packs in numerous hikes sandwiched between idyllic days at the beach. The highlight is sure to be a four-day trek to the impressive Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), which includes nights spent at scenic accommodations and downtime to interact with locals. Other memorable moments include exploring Tayrona National Park, relaxing in Cabo de la Vela, and venturing to South America's northernmost tip.

Your trip begins in the colorful city of Cartagena, where you'll explore friendly neighborhoods and tour Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. While here, you'll also dedicate a day to lazing on one of the Rosario Islands' white-sand beaches before transferring north to Santa Marta. Enjoy a restful night in the historic city, as the next morning marks the start of your trek to Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), the former center of the ancient Tairona civilization predating Machu Picchu by about 800 years.

Throughout the following four days, settle into a gentle pace perfect for connecting with locals and marveling at the jungle and mountain landscapes, with nights spent at secluded accommodations.

After your last night on the trail, indulge in a day at Tayrona National Park, where you can sunbathe, boat, snorkel, or observe wildlife. On Day 10, climb aboard a 4WD vehicle and travel up the coast to the secluded Cabo de La Vela. A two-night stay allows you to relax in your beachfront hut, attempt kitesurfing, and delve into the rich Wayúu culture of the area. But the Caribbean coast calls for further exploration, so you'll spend your final days visiting Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America, and sailing off the coast of Santa Marta before your catching your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Culture & Archaeology of Colombia

Enjoy a well-rounded introduction to Colombia's culture and ancient history on this trip featuring the central and southern regions. Starting in Medellín, you'll explore city highlights by Metrocable and visit the charming town of Guatapé. Then, fly south for three days among Salento's lush coffee estates and time in Cali, Popayán, and San Agustín. Lastly, wrap up your adventure by touring Tierradentro's archaeological wonders and horseback riding in the dramatic Tatacoa Desert.

Begin your two-week adventure in the resilient city of Medellín, exploring its trendy El Poblado district and snapping pics of the bulbous sculptures of Plaza Botero independently. Then, experience the city's modern side during a Metrocable tour before embarking on a day trip to Guatapé to climb its striking Rock of Guatapé. Next on your agenda is a transfer to the Andean town of Salento, which will serve as your base for three days. Kickstart your stay exploring its charms independently, followed by a rousing hike in the Valle de Cocora, a guided town tour, and a drive into the fertile Zona Cafetera.

Nearing the midway point of your trip, you'll spend a night learning to salsa in Cali and an afternoon biking among Popayán's whitewashed buildings on your way to San Agustín. Here, you'll dedicate a day to hiking between Parque Arqueológico de San Agustín's areas of interest, including pre-Columbian petroglyphs and megalithic sculptures. Afterward, switch directions and head north to Tierradentro, a site of ancient underground tombs adorned with geometric patterns and mythological carvings. On Day 13, wake early for a transfer into the Tatacoa Desert for a day of hiking or horseback riding before returning to Bogotá. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Outdoor Adventures in Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín & El Cocuy

Focus on Colombia's wild interior during this outdoor adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking an activity-packed trip. Between numerous hikes in El Cocuy National Park and time to tick off excursions of your choice in Río Claro Nature Reserve, you'll experience the imposing mountains, settled glaciers, and lush rainforests the country is renowned for. Plus, time in Bogotá to start and Medellín to finish your adventure ensures you get a taste of Colombia's sprawling cities.

Before heading deep into Colombia's wild landscapes, your adventure begins in Bogotá, meandering through the Gold Museum, shopping at Paloquemao, and soaking in panoramic city views from Cerro Monserrate. You'll also stop by Zipaquirá's famous Salt Cathedral and spend a night in the colonial village of Villa de Leyva on your way to El Cocuy National Park. Once here, adjust to the higher altitude during a short warm-up hike and make any preparations for your upcoming treks. Then, dedicate two days to hiking among the towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and high-altitude lakes that make up El Cocuy. 

After your rigorous hikes, you'll appreciate a day's journey to Bucaramanga for some rest before heading to the airport to catch a flight to Medellín. Maximize your day there with a self-guided tour of the city's highlights, then prepare to re-immerse yourself in Colombia's wild nature. The Río Claro Nature Reserve is your next stop, where a rustic accommodation with river views makes the perfect base to spend time ziplining, rafting, horseback riding, or ticking off other activities of your choice. Lastly, return to Medellín to conclude your travels with a Metrocable tour and a day excursion to Guatapé. Learn more

More Great 2-Week Colombia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Colombia? Check out these other two-week Colombia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.