Pedro Szekely from Los Angeles, USA (CC BY-SA 2.0)Botero Museum · Plaza de Bolívar · Explore the Streets of La Candelaria · San Felipe de Barajas Fort · Walk the Walls of Cartagena at Sunset · Explore Plaza de la Trinidad in Getsemaní
Reviewed by Shobhit Shrivastava · Founder
10-day Colombia trip — Bogotá to Cartagena. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.
This trip layers Bogota's high-altitude Andean history and urban art scene with Cartagena's Caribbean colonial charm. It offers a stark contrast between cool mountain city life and coastal warmth, unlike a trip focused solely on Medellin and its surrounding coffee region. Medellin, while dynamic, cannot match Bogota's extensive pre-Columbian gold museum or its vast street art canvas, nor Cartagena's uniquely preserved walled city. This pairing is built for those seeking diverse urban cultures and landscapes, over a singular focus on coffee landscapes or pure beach relaxation.
Bogotá
Day 2 · Pre-Columbian Gold & Sculpture
Day 3 · A Rooftop Bar Experience with City Views
Cartagena
Day 6 · Historic Colonial Cities
Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.
Bogota stays consistently mild and damp, requiring a warm layer for the chilly, misty evenings. Cartagena is consistently hot and humid, so schedule your sightseeing during the breezy morning hours to avoid the intense midday sun and persistent rainy season showers.
Bogotá
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 19 °C (66 °F) | 7 °C (44 °F) (cold) | 13 | 6:09 AM – 6:02 PM |
| Feb | 19 °C (66 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 18 | 6:11 AM – 6:09 PM |
| Mar | 18 °C (65 °F) | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | 22 | 6:02 AM – 6:07 PM |
| Apr | 18 °C (64 °F) | 9 °C (48 °F) | 19 | 5:49 AM – 6:02 PM |
| May | 18 °C (65 °F) | 9 °C (48 °F) | 17 | 5:43 AM – 6:02 PM |
| Jun | 17 °C (63 °F) | 9 °C (47 °F) | 13 | 5:45 AM – 6:08 PM |
| Jul | 17 °C (63 °F) | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | 11 | 5:51 AM – 6:13 PM |
| Aug | 17 °C (63 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 8 | 5:52 AM – 6:08 PM |
| Sep | 18 °C (64 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 9 | 5:47 AM – 5:55 PM |
| Oct | 18 °C (64 °F) | 8 °C (46 °F) (cold) | 16 | 5:41 AM – 5:42 PM |
| Nov | 18 °C (64 °F) | 8 °C (47 °F) (cold) | 21 | 5:43 AM – 5:38 PM |
| Dec | 18 °C (65 °F) | 7 °C (45 °F) (cold) | 12 | 5:55 AM – 5:47 PM |
Cartagena
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34 °C (92 °F) (hot) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 1 | 6:24 AM – 5:58 PM |
| Feb | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 23 °C (73 °F) | 0 | 6:22 AM – 6:10 PM |
| Mar | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 23 °C (74 °F) | 2 | 6:09 AM – 6:12 PM |
| Apr | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 24 °C (75 °F) | 12 | 5:51 AM – 6:12 PM |
| May | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 25 °C (76 °F) | 22 | 5:40 AM – 6:16 PM |
| Jun | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 24 °C (76 °F) | 23 | 5:40 AM – 6:24 PM |
| Jul | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 24 °C (76 °F) | 21 | 5:47 AM – 6:27 PM |
| Aug | 34 °C (92 °F) (hot) | 25 °C (76 °F) | 25 | 5:52 AM – 6:20 PM |
| Sep | 33 °C (92 °F) (hot) | 25 °C (76 °F) | 26 | 5:51 AM – 6:02 PM |
| Oct | 33 °C (91 °F) (hot) | 24 °C (76 °F) | 27 | 5:50 AM – 5:44 PM |
| Nov | 33 °C (91 °F) (hot) | 24 °C (76 °F) | 22 | 5:57 AM – 5:35 PM |
| Dec | 34 °C (93 °F) (hot) | 24 °C (74 °F) | 6 | 6:11 AM – 5:42 PM |
EFE (CC BY-SA 4.0)Upon arrival at El Dorado International Airport (BOG), proceed through immigration and customs. Take a taxi or Uber directly to your hotel in La Candelaria. The journey typically takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic, allowing time to settle into your accommodation.
Bernard Gagnon (CC BY-SA 4.0)Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch with a hearty bowl of Ajiaco Santafereño, a creamy chicken and potato soup, at a local eatery in the historic La Candelaria district.
Xemenendura (CC BY-SA 4.0)Savor a comforting traditional Colombian dinner with Caldo de Costilla, a delicious beef rib soup, at a local restaurant in La Candelaria.
Bernard Gagnon (CC BY-SA 4.0)Savor a hearty Ajiaco Santafereo, a classic Bogotan chicken and potato soup, in a local eatery within the historic district of La Candelaria.
MARCO CARDENAS (CC BY 2.0)Take a funicular or cable car up Monserrate Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of Bogota. Explore the sanctuary and enjoy the serene atmosphere high above the city.
Enjoy typical Santafereo dishes in the upscale Zona G, known for its diverse culinary offerings and lively atmosphere, providing a taste of local fine dining.
Staying at La Candelaria since Day 1
Embark on a challenging guided bicycle tour through Bogot a's historic center, exploring La Candelaria's steep alleyways, impressive street art, and the foothills surrounding the city for an active and cultural experience. This physically demanding tour includes stops at key historical landmarks and local spots.
Refuel with a hearty and authentic Colombian lunch. Savor freshly made empanadas with various savory fillings, paired with refreshing natural fruit juices, at a local eatery in the heart of La Candelaria.
Triángulo del Café Travel (CC BY 2.0)Delight your senses with a guided coffee tasting experience. Learn about the different varieties of Colombian coffee, their processing methods, and how to identify distinct flavors, enhancing your appreciation for this national treasure.
Indulge in a sophisticated dinner experience in Chapinero, known for its diverse culinary scene. Explore modern interpretations of classic Colombian dishes, highlighting fresh local ingredients and innovative flavors.
Enjoy a relaxed evening at a trendy rooftop bar in Chapinero, savoring cocktails and enjoying the city's atmosphere. A perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
Staying at La Candelaria since Day 1
Savor a comforting Sancocho, a traditional Colombian soup or stew made with various meats, tubers, and vegetables, offering a truly authentic taste of local cuisine in the Chapinero area.
Enjoy a delicious Colombian coffee at Colo Coffee in Zona T, a stylish and popular spot in the heart of Chapinero. Relax and soak in the local cafe culture.
Conclude the day with a hearty Bandeja Paisa, a national dish featuring a generous platter of ground beef, chicharrón, chorizo, rice, red beans, fried egg, avocado, and a plantain, served in the charming Teusaquillo neighborhood.
Staying at La Candelaria since Day 1
Enjoy a satisfying traditional Colombian lunch, featuring a 'corrientazo' (daily menu) with soup, a main dish, and juice, at a local restaurant in the Engativá neighborhood.
Take a leisurely walk to discover vibrant street art and murals throughout the Engativá neighborhood, showcasing local artistic talent and cultural narratives.
Enjoy an evening meal featuring regional Colombian specialties in the bohemian La Macarena neighborhood, known for its artistic vibe and diverse restaurant scene.
Staying at La Candelaria since Day 1
Travel from your hotel area to El Dorado International Airport for your domestic flight to Cartagena.
Domestic flight from Bogotá to Cartagena, a beautiful coastal city. Enjoy aerial views of Colombia's diverse landscapes as you travel to the Caribbean coast.
Arrive at Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), transfer to your accommodation, and check into your hotel in the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood of Cartagena.
Savor a traditional coastal Colombian dinner, enjoying whole fried fish (mojarra) served with sweet coconut rice and crispy fried green plantains in the historic center of Cartagena.
Grab a quintessential Cartagena street snack, the Arepa de Huevo (a deep-fried cornmeal patty filled with an egg), along with refreshing fresh fruit juices from a local vendor in the bustling Centro Histórico.
Embark on an adventure through the serene mangrove tunnels and canals of La Boquilla, a traditional fishing village. A local guide will paddle you through the ecosystem, allowing you to observe diverse birdlife and learn about the importance of these wetlands.
Enjoy a lively evening trying a variety of local street food from vendors in Getsemaní, such as grilled meats, patacones (fried plantains), empanadas, and refreshing fresh fruit salads, soaking in the neighborhood's vibrant night atmosphere.
Staying at Getsemaní since Day 6
Photo by Nano Erdozain on PexelsEnjoy a fresh and zesty Ceviche Cartagenero, a local seafood delicacy with shrimp marinated in lime, often found in casual eateries around the historic center.
Kobako (CC BY-SA 2.5)Savor authentic local Caribbean dishes in the quieter, more residential neighborhood of Manga, known for its local eateries and waterfront views.
Staying at Getsemaní since Day 6
Savor a quick and authentic budget-friendly street food lunch, such as local empanadas or arepas, from a vendor, perfect for experiencing the local culinary scene without breaking the bank.
Spend a relaxed afternoon in the tranquil, shaded Plaza de Bolívar, observing local life, enjoying the ambiance, and perhaps watching street performers.
Enjoy a simple and authentic dinner of freshly made arepas filled with various ingredients, a staple of Colombian cuisine, from a local eatery in the lively Getsemaní neighborhood.
Staying at Getsemaní since Day 6
Savor a quick and authentic street food lunch with traditional Arepas de Huevo, a fried corn cake filled with an egg, a staple of Cartagena's local cuisine, found in Getsemaní.
Return to your hotel in Getsemaní to check out and collect your luggage.
Martin St-Amant (S23678) (CC BY-SA 3.0)Transfer from your hotel in Getsemaní to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) for your flight home, allowing ample time for check-in and security.
Staying at Getsemaní since Day 6
Same destination, your dates, group, and pace. Generated free in about 2 minutes.
Customize this tripFreeFood, shopping & festivals
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Colombia
Cali
A refreshing and tangy drink from the Valle del Cauca region, made with lulo fruit pulp, lime juice, water, and sugar, often with chunks of the fruit.
Cartagena
Bogotá
Days 1 and 2
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Medellín
Colombian leather is known for its quality and craftsmanship, offering durable and stylish items often at better prices than abroad.
Bogotá
A practical and stylish hand-woven wool poncho, the ruana is a traditional Colombian garment perfect for cooler mountain climates or as a cozy wrap.
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Jul 20
July 20 marks the 1810 declaration of independence from Spain. Main parade on Bogotá's Avenida 26, presidential address from Casa de Nariño, and free concerts at Parque Simón Bolívar.
August
Aug 7
August 7 commemorates the 1819 Battle of Boyacá that sealed Colombian independence. Main ceremonies at Puente de Boyacá and Bogotá's military parade.
Nov 11
Costs
Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 10 days
USD 1,192Flights from your city not included.
| City | Simple | Comfortable | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bogotá | USD 15 | USD 30 | USD 45 |
| Cartagena | USD 15 | USD 30 | USD 45 |
Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.
Moderate overall, with comfortable hotels available around $70/night and incredibly cheap, delicious street food or 'corrientazo' meals for $3-7. While Colombia's safety has significantly improved, maintain situational awareness, especially after dark.
Stretch your food budget by embracing local 'corrientazo' (set lunch menus), offering a full, hearty meal for $4-8. Supplement with abundant street food like arepas and empanadas, typically costing $1-3 each, especially in Bogotá's La Candelaria or Cartagena's Getsemaní.
In Bogotá, focus on free or low-cost cultural attractions. The Botero Museum is free daily, and the revered Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) offers free entry on Sundays (otherwise ~COP 4,000, or $1 USD), saving your limited activity budget.
For efficient travel in Bogotá, use the TransMilenio BRT system. Purchase a 'TuLlave' card for about COP 6,000 ($1.50) and load it, as single rides are around COP 2,950 ($0.75), which is much more economical than frequent taxi use.
While many cafes advertise Wi-Fi, it's often slow or 'not working'; internet cafes offer basic access for $0.60-$1. For reliable navigation and communication, consider an inexpensive local SIM card with data, costing just a few dollars for ample usage, as public Wi-Fi can be very unreliable.
Before you go
Hotel in Bogotá
Nights 1–5 · La Candelaria · about USD 150 · Comfortable hotel range
Flight from Bogotá to Cartagena
Day 6 · Book 4 weeks ahead · about 1 hr 30 min · about USD 160 · Book via Avianca or LATAM official websites.
Hotel in Cartagena
Nights 6–9 · Getsemaní · about USD 120 · Comfortable hotel range
EXCÉNTRICA Rooftop Bogotá Reservation
Day 3 · Book 7 days ahead · Reservations are highly recommended for specific tables or times, especially for sunset views and weekend evenings at this popular rooftop bar.
Cerro de Monserrate Cable Car Ticket
Day 1 · Book 3 days ahead · While tickets are available on-site, pre-booking online can help you skip lines, especially on weekends and holidays.
Botero Museum Timed Entry
Day 1 · Book 3 days ahead · Secure your timed entry to avoid potential queues, particularly during peak visitor hours.
Gold Museum Timed Entry
Day 2 · Book 3 days ahead · Ensure smooth entry by booking your timed ticket in advance to bypass queues.
San Felipe de Barajas Fort Entry Ticket
Day 6 · Book 3 days ahead · Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and avoid queues at the entrance, especially during peak tourist season.
In Bogota, use the official ride-hailing apps for all transport after dark, especially when leaving restaurants in the La Candelaria or Chapinero districts.
The Paloquemao Fruit Market in Bogota is best visited early in the morning to see the full variety of goods and avoid the peak lunchtime crowds.
When visiting the Gold Museum in Bogota, note that it is closed on Mondays, so verify the opening hours if your itinerary shifts.
While walking the walls of Cartagena at sunset, be mindful of street vendors who may offer unsolicited services or gifts that are not free.
In the Getsemani neighborhood of Cartagena, stick to the main streets and well-lit alleys at night, and keep your phone and valuables stored away when not in use.
The altitude in Bogota is significant, so pace your urban hike at Quebrada La Vieja slowly and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Most shops and artisan stalls at Las Bovedas in Cartagena are cash-based, so carry small denominations of local currency for convenience.
Always carry your identification and a copy of your passport when moving between neighborhoods, as it is occasionally requested by local security officials.
Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet
Get COP cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for Colombia
Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)
Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees
Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home
Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)
Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)
Wallet with ID and payment cards
Tulluy card for public transport
Pen for arrival forms
Money belt
Bogota comes first, allowing five nights to acclimate to the altitude and deep dive into its varied neighborhoods. This front-loads major historical sites, museums, and a mountain ascent when your energy is highest. The mid-trip transit to Cartagena on Day 6 serves as a structural break, shifting from Andean intensity to Caribbean rhythms.
Cartagena then gets four full nights for thorough exploration of the Walled City, a mangrove adventure, and cycling, winding down with a more relaxed pace. The final day in Cartagena is left loose, ensuring a smooth departure. This trip prioritizes a deep exploration of Colombia's two most distinct urban and historical centers, moving between Andean and Caribbean culture.
You will immerse in Bogota's museums and street art, plus Cartagena's intricate colonial architecture and coastal life. However, this shape means no time for the lush coffee region, like a visit to Salento's wax palms and coffee fincas. It also skips the Amazon rainforest's unique ecosystems and wildlife or the specific archaeological parks such as San Agustin.
This cut is right if you came for layered city history and diverse landscapes; it is the wrong one if your priority is pure nature or coffee experiences. To extend your trip, add three days for the Tayrona National Natural Park after Cartagena. Stay in an eco-lodge or a beachfront cabana near Palomino, then hike through the park to discover secluded beaches and indigenous ruins.
This gives you a true coastal nature immersion that balances the urban focus.
| Visa & entry | US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens typically receive a 90-day visa-free entry stamp upon arrival, extendable for another 90 days. Indian citizens may require a visa; checking the official Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (cancilleria.gov.co) is essential. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay is generally required for all visitors. While not always enforced, having proof of onward travel may be requested upon entry. |
|---|---|
| US risk level | Reconsider travelUpdated Mar 30, 2026 |
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 123 · Ambulance 123 · Fire 123123 for all emergencies. Tourist police available in major cities. |
Avoid flashing expensive cameras or phones on public streets in Bogota and Medellin, especially after dark. Use ride-sharing apps like Cabify or Uber rather than hailing street taxis at night. Stick to well-traveled tourist areas in El Poblado or Usaquen and check local guidance before visiting remote rural zones.
| Tipping: restaurants | 10% usually suggested on the bill (propina sugerida) |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | Round up to nearest 1,000 COP |
| Tipping: hotels | COP 5,000–10,000 per bag |
| Cards | Accepted at hotels, malls, and restaurants |
| Contactless | Growing in Bogotá and Medellín |
| Cash | Cash widely used, especially outside major cities |
| Payment tip | Carry pesos. Some places add a small surcharge for card payments. |
| Plugs | Type A, B110V · 60Hz |
|---|
| SIM | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Claro | $5 to $10 for 15 days | Official Claro stores or small kiosks in most neighborhoods |
| Movistar | $5 to $10 for 15 days | Movistar storefronts in major cities |
| Airalo eSIM | $10 to $20 for 30 days | Airalo app |
Registration of your phone's IMEI number is required for long-term use; short-term tourists generally skip this but may face service blocks after 30 days.
Never bring up local history involving violence, as this is a sensitive subject for many residents. When greeting, a single kiss on the right cheek is common among friends, but a handshake is standard for business. Dress modestly in rural villages to show respect. Do not tip at casual cafes; in sit-down restaurants, a 10 percent service charge is often added to the bill, so check before paying extra.
About USD 1,192 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 10 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.
Travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, and India generally do not require a visa for short tourist stays. You will receive a stamp upon entry that typically allows for 90 days. Always verify the current requirements with your local Colombian consulate before booking your flights.
Bogota and Cartagena are safe for visitors who use common sense. Avoid displaying valuables, stay in well-lit areas at night, and use registered transport apps or hotel-arranged taxis instead of hailing cabs on the street. In Bogota, avoid neighborhoods south of La Candelaria and remain alert in the historic center after dark.
The currency is the Colombian Peso. Cash is essential for small vendors and markets, while credit cards work in most hotels and restaurants. Tipping is not mandatory but 10 percent is common for good service in restaurants; check your bill for a voluntary service charge before leaving extra.
Bogota is in the high Andes and stays cool year-round, so pack layers, a sweater, and a rain jacket. Cartagena is tropical, humid, and hot, requiring lightweight linen or cotton clothing and strong sunscreen. Prepare for both seasons to ensure comfort in both the mountain city and the Caribbean heat.
Colombia is equatorial, so temperature changes are minimal. December through March and July through August are the driest months, making them ideal for outdoor exploration. Avoid the peak holiday periods around Christmas and Easter if you want to dodge the largest local crowds.
The airport is about 20 minutes from the city center by car. Use official airport taxis or a ride-sharing app; avoid accepting rides from unauthorized drivers in the terminal. Traffic can be intense during rush hour, so allow extra time if you have a flight to catch.
Air travel is significantly faster because the terrain is mountainous and roads are often slow. Major carriers like Avianca and LATAM offer frequent connections between Bogota and Cartagena that save you a long, winding journey. Only take a bus if you have ample time and want to see the scenery.
Colombians are hospitable but value respect regarding their country's history. Avoid bringing up the country's past reputation for violence or crime, as it is considered tactless. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to show effort, as it goes a long way with the locals.
Download this Bogotá, Colombia; Cartagena, Colombia itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
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