Colombia in 10 Days – Journey to the Heart of South America
Explore the Magic of Colombia
Hidden Treasures in the
Heart of South America
Immerse Yourself in the Beauty and Culture of Colombia with an exciting 10-day itinerary. Discover the wonders of Medellín, the vibrant charm of Cartagena, the dreamy beaches of Santa Marta, and the wild nature of Tayrona National Natural Park.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you step by step to help you make the most of your adventure, sharing recommendations for the best places to eat, tips on finding charming accommodations, and tricks to avoid scams while ensuring a safe journey.
Embark on this unforgettable trip, savor the authentic flavors of Colombian cuisine, explore fascinating historical sites, and immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Colombia in all its splendor—a journey that will stay in my heart forever!
- Exploring Medellín: Discover the Best Places to Stay, Enjoy, and Savor in the City of Eternal Spring
- Guatapé: Vibrant Colors and the Majesty of El Peñol
- Santa Marta: A Peaceful Haven Before Tayrona National Park
- The Authentic and Natural Charm of Tayrona National Park
- Discover the Charming Buritaca Near Tayrona National Natural Park
- Cartagena: A Journey Back in Time to the Charm of a Spanish Village
- Bocagrande: The Miami of Colombia with Ocean Views and Exquisite Cuisine
- Exploring the Rosario Islands: Public Tour vs. Private Boat
Exploring Medellín:
Discover the Best Places to Stay, Enjoy, and Savor in the City of Eternal Spring
Unforgettable Accommodation Experiences in Provenza
Upon arriving Friday night, we eagerly headed to the central neighborhood of Provenza, where we had booked a stay at the popular Soy Local hostel. However, we were in for an unpleasant surprise… right below our apartment, a techno nightclub blasted music until the early hours of the morning, keeping us awake. This experience taught us a valuable lesson: always research and read reviews before booking accommodations – something we overlooked at the time, and we certainly paid the price for it.
Fortunately, the next morning, we discovered an amazing place to stay: Viu Experience. These luxury apartments are located in the heart of Provenza, a lively neighborhood full of charm and authentic nightlife in Medellín. The spacious lofts offer all the comforts to make you feel right at home, with exceptional service ensuring a memorable experience.
Best of all? Despite being in the center of the action, these apartments feature excellent soundproofing, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep even in the heart of Medellín’s nightlife scene.
As if that weren’t enough, the crown jewel of the apartment is a luxurious bathtub, perfect for enjoying a romantic evening with your partner.
During our trip, we learned that making a smart choice when selecting accommodations is essential to ensuring an exceptional travel experience and making the most of every moment.
Discover Lush Terraces, Exquisite Cuisine, and Dreamy Night Views
We stumbled upon this incredible rooftop gem completely by chance! From the outside, the hotel dazzled with a lush tropical jungle, making us feel as if we were stepping into a green paradise.
As we took the elevator up at the Click Clack Hotel, we were greeted by breathtaking views of all of Medellín and its majestic mountains, an infinity pool that felt like stepping into another dimension, electro-house music setting the perfect mood for relaxation, and a wide selection of cocktails to suit every taste.
Next, we decided to have dinner at El Relato, a place we had heard amazing things about—and it did not disappoint. The dishes, exquisitely prepared, left us speechless. Every bite was an explosion of flavors and textures, transporting us to a dreamlike culinary world.
Our next stop was El Bosque era Rosado, a charming bar-restaurant with spectacular nighttime views of Medellín, making it the perfect spot for a romantic moment with your partner. We couldn’t miss the chance to try their signature cocktail, made with mezcal and served in a mushroom-shaped glass.
Although we had already eaten, the tempting aromas from the nearby tables piqued our curiosity, leaving us eager to try more.
Explore the Magic of Comuna 13: Art, Transformation, and Culinary Delights
If you’re visiting Medellín, you can’t miss the authentic Comuna 13. Once known for its dangerous reputation, this neighborhood has undergone an incredible transformation, becoming a hub of street art.
How did this change happen? Well, Comuna 13 is located in a hilly area, and when the government installed escalators to improve accessibility, the neighborhood turned into a vibrant canvas, bursting with color and artistic expression.
Now, the escalators are known as the «stairs of life» and have become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world.
It’s amazing how creativity and the determination of a community can transform a place, showcasing to the world the power of art and human resilience.
If you’re exploring Comuna 13, you can’t miss the chance to try the famous arepa quesuda. This authentic delight will leave you speechless!
And if you’re worried about extra calories, you can walk up the stairs instead of using the escalators. Not only will you stay active, but you’ll also enjoy a pleasant stroll while admiring the impressive street art that decorates the neighborhood.
A full sensory experience you won’t want to miss!
Guatapé: Vibrant Colors and the Majesty of El Peñol
Just 79 kilometers from Medellín, nestled along the shores of the Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir, lies a charming Colombian town – a true hidden gem surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Guatapé captivates visitors with its vibrant, colorful facades, known as zócalos, which adorn every building. These intricate works of art tell stories of local life and regional culture.
However, the main attraction for tourists is the majestic Peñol de Guatapé. This gigantic granite monolith, formed millions of years ago due to volcanic activity, stands approximately 220 meters tall, making it a one-of-a-kind natural wonder.
The most exciting part? You can climb to the top by ascending 740 steps built into its side. At the summit, a breathtaking viewpoint awaits, offering spectacular panoramic views of the region. The effort is absolutely worth it, as the stunning scenery from above allows you to take in the beauty of the reservoir and Guatapé’s surroundings.
Visiting Guatapé means immersing yourself in a charming and picturesque atmosphere, where nature and culture blend to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re wandering through the colorful streets or conquering the mighty Peñol, Guatapé will captivate you with its beauty and leave you with lasting memories.
For our stay, we chose to book the charming cabins at Marina Navegar. What drew us in the most were the breathtaking views of the imposing Peñol and the stunning natural surroundings of Guatapé. Additionally, we were excited about the relaxing jacuzzi on our terrace, which added a special touch to our experience. From there, we could soak in the majestic scenery and enjoy an atmosphere of peace and serenity.
Santa Marta: A Peaceful Haven Before Tayrona National Park
We chose Santa Marta as a rest stop before heading to Tayrona National Natural Park. We stayed at Casa Rochelle, a hostel located right on the coast.
Santa Marta boasts an incredibly long and peaceful beach, though it’s important to be cautious with the extreme heat, especially at midday, when staying on the beach becomes unbearable. We used that time to visit Zarzué Plaza Mall and enjoy a delicious traditional seafood dish, the famous Cazuela de Mariscos.
Later in the afternoon, as the sun began to set, we relaxed on the beach with a piña colada in hand, soaking in the beautiful sunset. We didn’t get the chance to explore the city center, as we had an early start the next day for Tayrona Park, but locals recommended visiting Parque de los Novios en Santa Marta.
In short, it was a relaxing stop, but I wanted to share it because not every day has to be an adventure-packed one!
The Authentic and Natural Charm of Tayrona National Park
Tayrona National Park is undoubtedly one of the most authentic and wildest gems of our trip. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, the park is also home to indigenous communities who have embraced tourism by offering food, drinks, and various activities.
What makes this natural park truly special, and something rarely seen elsewhere, is that it completely closes during certain times of the year to allow its flora and fauna to regenerate. It’s essential to check the park’s official website before planning your trip to avoid visiting during these closure periods.
At the park entrance, we found buses that shorten the journey by approximately 5 km. These are highly recommended, as there isn’t much to see along this part of the trail, and the fare is only €1.
Once inside, there are two options to continue: hiking or horseback riding. We opted for horseback riding on the way in, as it cuts the travel time by about an hour and a half and costs only €20. Additionally, being further away from the main walking path provided a better chance to spot wildlife. We were lucky enough to see a family of titi monkeys along the way!
After a little over an hour of riding alongside our horses, Wendy and Natacha, we arrived at the last and most famous beach in the park: Cabo de San Juan. However, it’s not actually the last beach, as there are several other stunning and less crowded beaches beyond it, some of which are nudist-friendly. If that doesn’t bother you, I highly recommend exploring them during your visit to Tayrona National Park.
After about an hour enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Cabo de San Juan, we decided to walk back. It’s important to note that the return hike can take around 2.5 hours. Tayrona offers various accommodation options, from camping to luxury hotels. However, if you don’t plan to stay overnight, it’s best to start your return journey from Cabo de San Juan no later than 2 p.m.
One key thing to keep in mind: Tayrona has high humidity levels, which means you’ll sweat a lot. Sweat is a major attractant for mosquitoes, so mosquito repellent is a must!
During our hike, we were lucky enough to spot an agouti carrying a mango in its mouth. We also saw howler monkeys swinging from vine to vine and indigenous children playing in the park – their home.
In my opinion, this place has been the most authentic experience in Colombia. If you ever have the chance to visit the country, I strongly recommend setting aside a few days to experience Tayrona in person.
Discover the Charming Buritaca Near Tayrona National Natural Park
Along the coastal area near Tayrona National Natural Park, you’ll find Buritaca, a place filled with amazing hostels and hotels that invite you to experience an unforgettable stay. During our trip, we chose to stay at El Viajero Hostel, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise.
We opted to rent a private cabin at El Viajero, drawn by its beautiful private garden, which offered spectacular views and the perfect setting to disconnect and relax. The hostel also offers shared cabins, making it a great option for backpackers looking to enjoy paradise on a budget.
One of the things we loved about El Viajero was the wide range of activities organized daily by the staff. From morning yoga sessions to connect with your inner self, to cocktail and cooking classes where you can pick up new skills. And, of course, there were surf lessons and equipment rentals. While the waves at the hostel’s private beach weren’t too big, they were perfect for beginners looking to learn how to surf.
Cartagena: A Journey Back in Time to the Charm of a Spanish Village
Step into Cartagena’s historic center, and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to a charming Spanish village from centuries past. This captivating destination offers a wealth of experiences, from stunning landmarks to lively bars and the picturesque sight of horse-drawn carriages passing by. The presence of numerous police officers ensures a safe and leisurely exploration at your own pace.
As you wander through the cobblestone streets, hunger may strike—and when it does, head to San Nicolás or Casa de Socorro, two delightful restaurants serving exquisite coastal cuisine. During our visit to Cartagena, we chose San Nicolás, a local favorite for celebrations. We were lucky enough to witness not just one birthday, but four, and even a heartfelt marriage proposal during our dinner!
After an incredible meal, the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail is Café del Mar. Perched atop Cartagena’s city walls, this unique venue offers breathtaking views of Bocagrande and the sea. Trust us – it’s the ultimate spot in the city to witness a stunning sunset.
For those seeking a vibrant atmosphere after dinner, we highly recommend visiting Café Havana, which we affectionately call «Little Cuba.» This bar is bursting with charm. While there’s a 50-peso cover charge (about €10), the experience is worth every cent. A small stage comes to life with musicians and singers fully immersing themselves in salsa rhythms, delivering an unforgettable show. Even if you don’t dance, simply watching and feeling the electrifying energy is an experience in itself.
Cartagena is a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights, and the magical ambiance of its historic center promises a journey back in time. Whether you’re strolling through its picturesque streets, indulging in delectable cuisine, or getting swept up in the infectious salsa beats, Cartagena is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul. A trip to this Colombian gem is an absolute must for any traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Bocagrande: The Miami of Colombia with Ocean Views and Exquisite Cuisine
On our trip to Cartagena, we chose to stay in Bocagrande, a neighborhood that reminded me of Miami with its modern and vibrant atmosphere. Here, tall condominiums, chic restaurants, and trendy boutiques create a luxurious setting.
The main reason for our choice? Waking up to breathtaking panoramic ocean views – an experience that is simply priceless.
We chose to stay at Morros City Condominium, where for approximately $70 per night, we enjoyed a cozy apartment with a kitchen, living room, and bedroom, all offering magnificent views.
However, it’s important to note that many condominiums have strict entry policies. You must submit all required information to the host at least 24 hours in advance to avoid any complications on your arrival day.
During our stay in Bocagrande, we discovered a place we absolutely loved called Boka. This restaurant offers an intriguing fusion of Arab, Colombian, and American cuisine, catering to all tastes.
Without a doubt, it’s a delicious option to satisfy your hunger in this area.
Additionally, you can’t miss the chance to visit Café José Álvarez, also located in Bocagrande, which, in my opinion, serves the best Colombian coffee.
If you want to take a taste of Colombia home with you, this is the perfect place to buy high-quality coffee.
Exploring the Rosario Islands: Public Tour vs. Private Boat
When planning a visit to the Rosario Islands, we came across two options to explore this paradise: a public tour or a private boat.
The public tour, costing around $40, would take us to three different islands. However, after further research, we realized that this might not be the most comfortable option. These tours typically carry many passengers on small boats with not too powerful engines, which could make for a bumpy and seasick-inducing experience during the 3 to 4 hours of navigation. Additionally, the stops on these tours are often tourist traps, where the beaches are crowded with vendors offering all sorts of products and services.
With this in mind, we decided to explore the private boat option. Although our first stop was a typical tourist spot, we didn’t feel entirely comfortable, so we spoke with the captain to find a quieter place. He took us first to the calm, turquoise waters of «La Piscinita», near Isla Grande, where a few other boats were enjoying the crystal-clear sea. Later, he took us to a small, secluded beach in Punta Ola Grande, where we could enjoy the sand and sea all to ourselves, far from the crowds.
While a private boat comes at a higher cost – around $300 per day for groups of 3 to 4 people – for us, it was the most worthwhile choice to truly experience the Rosario Islands. Having the freedom to choose our destinations and enjoy less crowded beaches made this an unforgettable and unique experience.
Comentarios
I’ve been browsing online more than 2 hours
today, yet I never found any interesting article like yours.
It’s pretty worth enough for me. Personally, if all web owners and
bloggers made good content as you did, the net will be a lot more useful than ever before.
Appreciate it Linda!! Keep reeding, new things are too come soon 🙂
It is perfect time to make a few plans for the long
run and it’s time to be happy. I’ve learn this put up and if I may I wish to counsel you few interesting issues or suggestions.
Maybe you could write subsequent articles regarding
this article. I desire to read more things about it!