Colombia 5 Day Itinerary

Colombia Travel Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Bogotá

  • Place: Bogotá, the capital city
  • Activity: Visit La Candelaria, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Colombia, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant street life.
    • Stop by Plaza Bolivar and admire the beautiful buildings surrounding it.
    • Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which houses an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
  • Things to know:
    • Bogotá is at a high altitude, so you may feel some effects from the elevation.
    • Traffic in Bogotá can be unpredictable and dense; consider using a taxi or ride-hailing services if you’re not comfortable with local public transportation.
  • Transportation: From El Dorado International Airport (BOG), take a taxi, Uber, or Transmilenio bus to your destination. The airport is well-connected to the city by both options.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the La Candelaria neighborhood for easy access to historic sites and nightlife.

Day 2: Bogotá to Zipaquirá

  • Place: Zipaquirá, a town just outside Bogotá known for its Salt Cathedral
  • Activity:
    • Visit the stunning Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá (Catedral de Sal de Zipaquirá), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is carved out of salt and features beautiful sculptures and frescoes.
    • Explore the town’s historic center, which includes a 16th-century church and picturesque streets.
  • Things to know:
    • Getting to Zipaquirá involves taking a bus from Bogotá. Consider using a private service or taxi for more convenience.
    • The Salt Cathedral is an impressive religious site that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike; it’s advisable to respect local rules and traditions.
  • Transportation: Use the Transmilenio system (line 2) to get to the Terminal de Norte, then transfer to a bus (approximately 1 hour journey from Bogotá).
  • Accommodation: Consider staying in Zipaquirá for an immersive experience or return to La Candelaria in Bogotá.

Day 3: Bogotá

  • Place: Monserrate and the surrounding area
  • Activity:
    • Ascend to Monserrate, a mountain peak offering breathtaking views of the city. You can hike up (approximately 1 hour) or take a funicular.
    • Visit the nearby churches and enjoy the local food in the vicinity.
  • Things to know:
    • Weather on Monserrate can change quickly; be prepared with appropriate clothing and water.
    • It’s advisable to respect local rules, especially during religious ceremonies.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or ride-hailing service to get to Monserrate. From La Candelaria, it should take around 20 minutes.

Day 4: Bogotá to Cartagena

  • Place: Cartagena, a coastal city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife
  • Activity: Explore the walled historic center of Cartagena, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Visit the Plaza de Bolivar in the heart of the city.
    • Walk along the walls that surround the old town for stunning views of the sea.
  • Things to know:
    • Cartagena has a tropical climate; stay hydrated and be prepared for heat and humidity.
    • Traffic in Cartagena can be congested, especially at night. Consider using local taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
  • Transportation: Fly from Bogotá (El Dorado Airport) to Cartagena (Rafael Nuñez International Airport), which is the most direct way. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

Day 5: Cartagena

  • Place: Getsemani neighborhood and the nearby beaches
  • Activity:
    • Explore the vibrant streets of Getsemani, known for its street art, markets, and lively atmosphere.
    • Relax on one of Cartagena’s beautiful beaches, such as Bocagrande or Playa del Laguito.
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds in popular areas like Getsemani and the historic center.
    • Respect local vendors and street artists; many of them are entrepreneurs providing a living through their work.
  • Transportation: Cartagena has a good public transportation system, including buses. However, considering your short stay, using taxis or ride-hailing services might be more convenient.

Visa Requirements

Colombia offers visa-free entry for citizens of several countries, but requirements can change; it’s advisable to check with the Colombian embassy or consulate in your country for the latest information on visa policies and requirements. For most travelers, Colombia does not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.

Health and Safety

Colombia has made significant strides in improving safety for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s always advisable to take basic precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, using reputable transportation services, and keeping valuables secure. Stay informed about local conditions and events through government travel advisories or direct contact with tourist information centers.

Enjoy your journey!