3 weeks in Colombia - 3 travel itineraries

Welcome to Colombia – a country of boundless beauty and cultural richness. With a generous three weeks to spare, you’re sure to have lots of time to explore this captivating corner of South America. Here’s our guide to creating the perfect 3 week itinerary in Colombia, with tips from our local travel experts.

Is 3 weeks enough for Colombia?

With three weeks at your disposal, you've got ample time to delve deep into Colombia's diverse regions and uncover its hidden gems. From the lively streets of Bogotá to the tranquil shores of the Pacific coast, every corner of this captivating country beckons with its own unique allure.

As you map out your itinerary, consider the rhythm of travel and the seasonal nuances that shape Colombia's landscapes. Also don’t forget to factor in travel time between destinations. 

Feeling overwhelmed by the daunting task of planning your ideal itinerary? Why not let us handle it for you? With our tailor-made trip service, you can focus solely on enjoying your travels while we take care of all the details and reservations. Our Colombia itineraries, meticulously crafted by local travel experts, are entirely adaptable to suit your every whim.

Itinerary #1: Best of Colombia

This 3 week itinerary in Colombia offers the country’s finest attractions. Kickstart your journey in Bogotá on day one, where you'll settle into your hotel before venturing out to explore the city's vibrant streets at your own pace. Day two is for soaking up Bogotá's culture, from the bustling Paloquemao's Market to the historical charms of La Candelaria. Don't miss the chance to catch breathtaking city views from Cerro de Monserrate and explore the Museo del Oro and Museo de Botero, topped off with a tasty local lunch.

Day three is for experiencing Bravo Bogotá, where you'll embark on a gastronomic tour at the National Museum, tasting delights from four different eateries and meeting talented chefs along the way.

On day four, buckle up for a scenic journey to Zipaquirá's Salt Cathedral and the picturesque towns of Sutatausa and Raquira. Day five invites exploration of the enchanting colonial town of Villa de Leyva, complete with visits to fascinating landmarks like El Fósil Museum and Ecce Homo Monastery, topped off with a wine tasting at Marques de Villa de Leyva vineyards.

Days six through nine are packed with adventures in the coffee triangle, from birdwatching at Finca Romelia to exploring charming towns like Filandia and Salento, not to mention indulging in coffee farm visits and garden explorations.

On day ten, hop on a flight to Neiva and transfer to San Agustín for a serene soak in the thermal springs before diving into the archaeological wonders on days eleven and twelve.

Day thirteen takes you on a scenic drive through Puracé National Park to Popayán, where you'll meander through the old quarter and embark on a thrilling Silvia Market Tour on day fourteen.

After a flight to Cartagena, day fifteen brings a taste of coastal life with visits to La Boquilla fishing village and a mangrove swamp canoe tour, followed by explorations of Getsemaní neighborhood and historic landmarks.

Enjoy Cartagena's culinary delights on day sixteen, then dive into art and culture on day seventeen. Bid farewell to Colombia on day eighteen as you depart from Cartagena. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 3 week itinerary in Colombia:

Day 1

• Arrive in Bogotá.
• Transfer to your hotel.
• Free time to explore Bogotá.

Day 2

• Visit Paloquemao's Market.
• Explore La Candelaria's historical quarter.
• Head to Cerro de Monserrate for panoramic views.
• Tour Museo del Oro and Museo de Botero.
• Lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 3

• Taste Bogotá with Bravo Bogotá.
• Join a culinary tour at the National Museum.
• Sample flavors at four different restaurants.
• Meet chefs and learn about Bogotá's gastronomy.

Day 4

• Visit Zipaquirá's Salt Cathedral.
• Explore Sutatausa and Raquira.
• Lunch at a traditional Andean restaurant.
• Tour Monasterio la Candelaria.

Day 5

• Explore the colonial town of Villa de Leyva.
• Visit El Fósil Museum.
• Ecce Homo Monastery.
• Wine tasting at Marques de Villa de Leyva vineyards.

Day 6

• Free morning in Villa de Leyva.
• Transfer to Bogotá Airport.
• Fly to coffee triangle.

Day 7

• Explore Finca Romelia and its gardens.
• Birdwatching and orchid spotting.
• Return to the hotel.

Day 8

• Visit Filandia and Quindio's Viewpoint.
• Explore Cocora Valley and Salento.
• Lunch at Cocora Valley.
• Return to the hotel.

Day 9

• Tour Hacienda Combia coffee farm.
• Visit Quindio's Botanical and Butterfly Garden.

Day 10

• Fly to Neiva and transfer to San Agustín.
• Take a stroll through the charming streets of San Agustin.
• Relax at the thermal springs.

Day 11

• Explore San Agustín Archaeological Park.
• Visit Lavapatas Fountain.
• Archaeological Park of San Agustin.

Day 12

• Hike to Alto de los Ídolos and Alto de las Piedras.
• Choose from hiking, horseback riding, or Chiva tour.
• Explore La Chaquira and other sites.

Day 13

• Drive through Puracé National Park to Popayán.
• Walk through the old quarter of Popayán.

Day 14

• Silvia Market Tour.
• Visit Silvia's indigenous market.
• Guided tour of Silvia town.
• Transfer to Popayán Airport and fly to Cartagena.

Day 15

• Visit La Boquilla fishing village.
• Canoe tour through the mangrove swamp.
• Walking tour of Getsemaní neighborhood.
• Explore Convento de la Popa and Castillo de San Felipe.
• Wander through Las Bovedas craft markets.

Day 16

• Experience Cartagena through local tastings.
• Indulge in delicious Colombian dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and ceviche at one of Cartagena's many restaurants and street food stalls.

Day 17

• Visit the Museum of Modern Art.
• Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemani, known for its street art, lively bars, and hip cafes. It's a great place to experience the local culture and nightlife.

Day 18

• Departure Cartagena.
• Transfer to Rafael Núñez Airport.

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Limited to two weeks? Dive into our 14-day Colombia itineraries.

Itinerary #2: Colombian art and music

If you're passionate about the arts, then this three-week journey is tailor-made for you. Day one kicks off with your touchdown in Bogotá, giving you free rein to explore Colombia's bustling capital.

On day two, dive into the city's soul with an early visit to Paloquemao’s Market, followed by a visit to the historic La Candelaria neighborhood. Don't miss the chance to catch breathtaking city views from atop Monserrate Hill while here. Plus, you’ll visit the city’s Gold Museum and Botero’s Museum.

Day three promises a peek into Colombia's artistic heritage with a tour of the La Macarena neighborhood and Independence Park, capped off with a stellar visit to Bogotá’s Planetarium.

Day four is all about street art as you join the Bogotá Graffiti Tour to unravel the city's vibrant artistic scene. 

Next stop: Medellín on day five, where you can leisurely soak in the vibes of the “City of Eternal Spring.” Day six beckons you to explore Medellín's iconic landmarks, from Pueblito Paisa to Botero Plaza.

On day seven, you’ll dive into Medellín's pulsating nightlife scene with visits to local bars and Fondas.

Day eight sees you transferring to Cali for some relaxation time, while day nine invites you to salsa your heart out with a guided dance lesson.

Day ten brings a guided tour of Cali's historic gems, paving the way for a journey to Aracataca on day eleven, the town that inspired Gabriel García Márquez's masterpiece.

On day twelve you’ll explore Aracataca's cultural heritage, while day thirteen is dedicated to uncovering Barranquilla's rich history. On day fourteen, you'll find yourself in Cartagena for a walking tour of the inner walled city, followed by an exploration of Champeta's music origins on day fifteen.

Don't miss a visit to San Basilio de Palenque on day sixteen for a deep dive into Colombian culture. Day seventeen brings a traditional canoe tour in La Boquilla, while day eighteen offers up some free time before bidding Colombia farewell. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 3 week itinerary in Colombia:

Day 1

• Arrival in Bogotá.
• Free time to explore Colombia's largest city.

Day 2

• Early morning visit to Paloquemao’s Market, one of Colombia's largest markets, offering a variety of fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.
• Explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, known for its colonial architecture.
• Stroll around Plaza de Bolivar, Bogotá’s main square, surrounded by prominent landmarks.
• Ascend Monserrate Hill for panoramic views of Bogotá.
• Visit Bogotá’s Gold Museum, housing the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
• Explore Botero’s Museum, featuring works by Colombia’s most famous contemporary artist, Fernando Botero.

Day 3

• Tour of La Macarena neighborhood, known for its artistic community and architectural landmarks.
• Visit Torres del Parque, a masterpiece by Colombian architect Rogelio Salmona.
• Walkthrough Independence Park, Plaza de Toros La Santamaria, and Bogotá’s Planetarium.
• Explore the National Museum, Colombia’s oldest museum, housed in a historic 19th-century building.

Day 4

• Join the Bogotá Graffiti Tour to explore the city's vibrant street art scene.
• Learn about the history, artists, and influences behind Bogotá's urban art movement
• Discover colorful murals and graffiti in various neighborhoods.
• Gain an understanding of the social and cultural significance of street art in Bogotá.

Day 5

• Transfer to Medellin.
• Free time in Medellin.

Day 6

• Explore Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring”.
• Visit Pueblito Paisa for panoramic views of the city.
• Explore Botero Plaza and view sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero.
• Experience the Metro Cable to Santo Domingo, an innovative transportation system.
• Tour Comuna 13 district and learn about its social and urban transformation projects.

Day 7

• Experience traditional nightlife in Medellín with a visit to local “Fondas” or bars
• Enjoy typical Colombian food and drinks.

Day 8

• Transfer to Cali.
• Leisure time.

Day 9

• Experience Cali's vibrant salsa culture with a guided dance lesson.
• Learn basic salsa moves.

Day 10

• Explore Cali's historic and cultural landmarks with a guided city tour.
• Visit Plaza de Caicedo, the main square of Cali, and learn about its history.
• Discover architectural gems such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and San Francisco church.
• Explore the San Antonio neighborhood, known for its colonial charm and artistic vibe.
• Visit scenic viewpoints such as Mirador de Sebastián de Belalcázar and Cristo Rey Monument.

Day 11

• Transfer to Aracataca.

Day 12

• Explore the town of Aracataca, birthplace of Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez.
• Visit landmarks associated with García Márquez's life and literary works.
• Enjoy a guided tour of the House Museum, located in the writer's ancestral home.
• Experience the charm and cultural heritage of Aracataca, known as the inspiration for Macondo in "One Hundred Years of Solitude”.

Day 13

• Discover Barranquilla's rich history and cultural diversity with a guided city tour.
• Visit historic neighborhoods, museums, and landmarks that showcase the city's heritage.
• Explore the industrial zone of Via 40.

Day 14

• Transfer to Cartagena.
• Embark on a walking tour through Cartagena's inner-walled city.
• Taste local flavors and culinary delights at authentic food stops.
• Learn about Cartagena's culture, history, and daily life from knowledgeable guides.

Day 15

• Explore the origins and cultural significance of Champeta music with local icon Charles King.
• Learn Champeta dance moves.
• Experience Afro-Caribbean music and dance.

Day 16

• Visit San Basilio de Palenque, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site.
• Experience African music, dance, and boxing demonstrations.
• Participate in a ritual of healing and spiritual cleansing.
• Enjoy a tasting of traditional Palenquero sweets and a language workshop.

Day 17

• Explore the mangrove swamps of La Boquilla on a traditional canoe tour.
• Learn traditional Caribbean folk dances at a local dance school.

Day 18

• Free time.
• Departure day.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Pressed for time? Discover our 10-day Colombia itineraries.

Itinerary #3: Colombian culinary experience

On this 3 week itinerary in Colombia, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the real taste of Colombian cuisine in some of the country's most interesting and exciting cities — starting as soon as you touch down in Bogotá on day one. After settling into your hotel, prepare for an exploration of the city's rich history on day two, with visits to La Candelaria, Plaza de Bolivar, and must-see museums like the Gold Museum and Botero’s Museum.

Day three promises a hands-on cooking class where you'll master traditional Bogotá cuisine, followed by a culinary adventure through Quinta Camacho. Dive even deeper into Bogota’s food scene on day four as you wander through the Paloquemao flower market and whip up the iconic dish, ajiaco, in another cooking class.

On day five, bid Bogotá farewell as you journey to Villa de Leyva, with captivating stops at Ráquira and Monasterio del Desierto de la Candelaria along the way. Spend the sixth day indulging in wine tasting at Marqués de Villa de Leyva winery and exploring the town's charms.

Day seven is all about enjoying Villa de Leyva's gastronomic delights on a culinary tour before heading back to Bogotá on day eight, with a fascinating stop at Puente de Boyacá and a tour of Hacienda San Alberto.

In Bogotá, get your hands dirty with an interactive cooking tour making sancocho on day nine and dive into a cocoa experience on day ten before jetting off to Cali. Explore the local market square on day twelve before flying to Cartagena.

Days thirteen and fourteen bring fantastic experiences, from walking tours through Cartagena’s inner walled city to fishing and cooking adventures at La Boquilla.

Indulge in a rum and chocolate tasting on day fifteen and dive into San Basilio de Palenque's unique gastronomy on day sixteen. Try the unique local cuisine of Barranquilla on day seventeen before bidding farewell on day eighteen. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 3 week itinerary in Colombia:

Day 1:

• Welcome to Bogota!
• Transfer to your hotel.

Day 2

• City Tour in Bogotá.
• Explore the historical heart of Bogotá, La Candelaria, known for its splendid colonial architecture.
• Visit Plaza de Bolivar and prominent landmarks like the Gold Museum and Botero’s Museum, featuring works by Colombia’s famous artist, Fernando Botero.

Day 3

• Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn traditional Bogota cuisine.
• Experience the local lifestyle and traditions as you prepare and taste authentic dishes.
• Embark on a gastronomic journey through Quinta Camacho, tasting both traditional and avant-garde Colombian cuisine.

Day 4

• Explore Bogota’s culinary scene with a visit to the Paloquemao flower market.
• Learn to cook Bogota’s iconic dish, ajiaco, and sample local snacks and ingredients.

Day 5

• Depart Bogotá for Villa de Leyva, stopping at Ráquira, known for its colorful facades and artisan ceramics.
• Visit the Monasterio del Desierto de la Candelaria, the first Augustinian monastery in Latin America.
• Arrive in Villa de Leyva and enjoy a walking tour through the well-preserved colonial town.

Day 6

• Explore Villa de Leyva with visits to El Fósil Museum, Casa Terracota, and Santo Ecce Homo convent
• Discover the Marqués de Villa de Leyva winery and indulge in wine tasting amid picturesque vineyards

Day 7

• Delight your taste buds with a gastronomic tour of Villa de Leyva, sampling the best local cuisine.
• Visit renowned restaurants and savor the flavors of Boyacá while learning about its culinary heritage.

Day 8

• From Villa de Leyva to Bogotá.
• Check out of your hotel and journey back to Bogotá with a stop at Puente de Boyacá, a historic site of Colombia’s independence.
• Tour Hacienda San Alberto and learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup.
• Participate in a coffee-tasting session to appreciate the flavors and aromas of Colombian coffee.

Day 9

• Interactive Typical Cooking Tour "Sancocho as a Family".
• Visit a local farmer’s market to select fresh ingredients for a traditional Colombian dish, sancocho.
• Engage in a cooking session at Hacienda Santa Clara and learn to prepare sancocho with the guidance of local chefs.

Day 10

• Cocoa Experience.
• Journey through the Coffee Cultural Landscape to a hacienda where you’ll explore the world of cocoa.
• Engage in a sensory experience tasting cocoa and learning about its history and cultural significance.

Day 11

• Transfer the hotel to the airport.
• Flight to Cali.

Day 12

• Tour of the traditional market square.
• Explore Cali’s traditional market square, Alameda, where you’ll discover local delicacies, fruits, and crafts.
• Transfer to the airport for your flight to Cartagena.

Day 13

• Take a walking tour through Cartagena’s inner-walled city to discover authentic local flavors.
• Visit local food stops and taste traditional dishes while learning about Cartagena’s culture and history.

Day 14

• Fishing & Cooking experience at La Boquilla.
• Experience traditional fishing techniques in La Boquilla, followed by a cooking session with local fishermen.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch of freshly caught seafood prepared in a native fisherman's house.

Day 15

• Rum & Chocolate Tasting.
• Indulge in a tasting experience featuring Colombian rum and chocolate pairings at El Arsenal.

Day 16

• Gastronomic San Basilio de Palenque.
• Visit San Basilio de Palenque, an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, to explore its culinary traditions.
• Learn to prepare and taste typical dishes with locals, experiencing the rich gastronomic heritage of Palenque.
• Private transfer to the Rafael Núñez Airport.

Day 17

• Gastronomic Experience "Sabrosura Caribe" (continued).
• Explore three emblematic places of Caribbean cuisine in Barranquilla and taste their most representative dishes.
• Sample 16 tastings showcasing the fusion of indigenous, African, and Spanish culinary influences.
• Participate in preparing a typical coastal dish under the guidance of an expert.

Day 18

• Departure day.

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Prepare for your 3 week itinerary in Colombia

Our team of local travel experts thoughtfully crafts each of our itineraries to make sure that you can make the most of your trip. To spark your inspiration, discover the ideal time to visit Colombia, explore its top attractions, or see our other Colombia itineraries.

If the thought of spending hours researching for your ideal trip doesn't excite you, use our tailor-made trip service. Our trips are entirely customizable to suit your every preference.

Ready to plan your own 3 week itinerary in Colombia? See our Rough Guide to Colombia for expert insights and plenty of planning tips.