A travel guide to travelling two weeks around Colombia
Colombia is a vibrant, diverse country that offers travellers an unforgettable blend of lush jungles, Caribbean beaches, colonial cities and breathtaking mountain landscapes. If you’re planning a two-week adventure in Colombia and wondering which destinations to prioritise, this detailed itinerary will guide you through some of the country's best destinations. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Cartagena, heading to unspoilt palm tree beaches or experiencing the colourful streets of Guatapé, Colombia is packed with experiences to suit all kinds of travellers. If you're wondering where to go in Colombia for two weeks, my itinerary will guide you through some of the must-see destinations, allowing you to experience the country's rich culture, natural beauty, and hidden gems—all within just 14 days. This route is perfect for those who want to see the best of Colombia without feeling rushed.
Colombia 2-Week Itinerary Overview
If you're wondering how to make the most of two weeks in Colombia, here's a breakdown of our trip:
Day 1: Arrive in Bogotá, Fly to Meddellín
We arrived in Bogotá and, to maximise our time, we immediately took a domestic flight to Medellín and then got a transfer car to Guatapé
Day 2: Guatapé (2 Nights)
From Medellín, we headed to the colourful town of Guatapé for two nights. This picturesque town is famous for its vibrant streets and El Peñol, a giant rock offering panoramic views.
Day 3-4: Cartagena (2 Nights)
We flew from Medellín to Cartagena, one of Colombia’s most iconic cities. The old city’s colonial architecture, lively plazas, and nearby beaches make it a must-visit.
Day 5-6: Casa en el Agua, Isla Grande (2 Nights)
Next, we escaped to Casa en el Agua on Isla Grande, a peaceful getaway in the Rosario Islands, perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Day 7-9: Palomino (3 Nights)
Our next stop was Palomino, a beachside town along the Caribbean coast. Known for its laid-back vibe and rivers perfect for tubing, Palomino is an ideal spot to unwind.
Day 10: Journey Hostel (1 Night)
After Palomino, we spent a night at Journey Hostel, a charming hostel offering stunning views of Tayrona National Park.
Day 11-13: Dos Aguas Lodge (3 Nights)
For the final leg of our trip, we stayed at Dos Aguas Lodge. Located in a tranquil setting, it’s perfect for relaxation.
Day 14: Return Home
After two incredible weeks, we made our way back home from Colombia.
Bogotá to Guatapé: Starting Your 2-Week Colombia Adventure
Getting from Bogotá to Guatapé is straightforward, and the quickest option is to fly. We found several flight options on Skyscanner, with many airlines offering regular flights from Bogotá to Medellín. If you’re arriving from overseas, you’ll land at Bogotá’s international terminal. After clearing immigration and security, collect your luggage and head over to the domestic terminal for your one-hour flight to Medellín.
Once in Medellín, we arranged for a hotel-organised transfer to pick us up from the airport and drive us directly to Guatapé. We felt this was the safest and most convenient option, as the driver knew the exact location of our hotel. The drive from Medellín Airport to Guatapé takes about two hours and offers some beautiful scenery along the way.
While researching, we also considered taking a private transfer directly from Bogotá to Guatapé, but it turned out to be more expensive than flying. Another budget-friendly option is taking the bus, though it would be a longer journey.
I've done a full blog post on travelling from Bogotá to Guatapé which you can view HERE
How Much Does It Cost to Travel from Bogotá to Guatapé? [2024 Guide]
Travelling from Bogotá to Guatapé is affordable and straightforward. A one-way flight from Bogotá to Medellín typically costs around 96,000 COP (approximately £20). However, if you add luggage, the total can rise to about 250,000 COP (around £50).
Once you arrive in Medellín, a private transfer to Guatapé will set you back about 200,000 COP (around £50). If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, taking the bus from Medellín to Guatapé is a great choice. A bus ticket costs approximately 20,000 COP (about £4) and can be conveniently booked through Red Bus here.
Exploring Guatapé: 2 Days in Colombia’s Colorful Town
Guatapé, renowned as Colombia’s most colourful town, is a must-visit destination bursting with charm and vibrancy. Famous for its lively streets, intricate zócalos (decorative tiles), and the iconic El Peñol Rock, Guatapé is just a two-hour drive from Medellín. This picturesque town offers stunning views, boat tours on the reservoir and ample hiking opportunities. Whether you’re climbing the 740 steps of La Piedra for breathtaking panoramic vistas or wandering through the lively local markets, Guatapé is an ideal spot for a 2-day getaway. With its small size, two days is plenty of time to soak in the culture, adventure and stunning scenery that this enchanting town has to offer.
Cartagena: 2 Days Exploring Colombia’s Colonial Gem
Cartagena, known as Colombia’s jewel on the Caribbean coast, offers a captivating blend of colonial charm and modern vibrancy. The beautifully preserved Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and historic plazas, is a must-see, showcasing the rich culture and history of Colombia’s coastal city. From the port, you can embark on boat trips to explore the stunning surrounding islands (such as the Roasrio islands). While two days is sufficient to experience the highlights of Cartagena, you may want to extend your stay to fully enjoy its offerings, including a wide array of restaurants, rooftop bars and various activities.
How to travel from Guatapé to Cartagena
To travel from Guatapé to Cartagena, we arranged a private transfer from our hotel to Medellín Airport. It’s important to note that Medellín has multiple airports, so be sure to confirm the correct one before departing—we accidentally went to the wrong airport and almost missed our flight! Once you arrive in Cartagena, you can easily take a taxi from the airport to your hotel, as the airport is conveniently located close to the city center.
How Much Does It Cost to Travel from Guatapé to Cartagena? [2024 Guide]
Traveling from Guatapé to Cartagena is relatively affordable. We first took a private transfer (organised by our hotel) to Medellín Airport, which cost about 200,000 COP (approximately £50). The flight from Medellín to Cartagena typically costs around 250,000 COP (about £50). However, if you add luggage, the total can rise to approximately 350,000 COP (around £70). Once you arrive in Cartagena, a taxi from the airport to the city center costs around 30,000 COP (about £7) and takes about 15 minutes.
Casa en el Agua, Isla Grande: 2 Nights at a Floating Hostel
Casa en el Agua, situated on the tranquil Isla Grande in the Rosario Islands, is approximately a two-hour boat ride from Cartagena. This rustic, eco-friendly hostel offers the perfect setting for a laid-back island experience that transforms into a lively party atmosphere at night. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, guests can enjoy activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, making it an ideal place to disconnect and unwind. Before booking, keep in mind that there is no air conditioning and that showering is only available during a designated two-hour slot each day— but it's definitely an unforgettable experience!
How to travel from Cartagena to Agua Hostel
To reach Casa en el Agua from Cartagena, you’ll need to take a two-hour ferry from the city center. There is a designated ferry port in Cartagena, and only one service operates this route: Tranq It Easy. It’s essential to book your ferry tickets in advance, as availability can affect your travel dates. You can conveniently book your tickets via WhatsApp and make your payment through PayPal. For more information, visit their website here.
How much does it cost to travel from Cartagena to Casa en el Agua Hostel? [2024 Guide]
The return ferry from Cartagena to Casa en el Agua costs approximately 150,000 COP (around £27). Additionally, there is a slower route available, which you can find more details about on their website.
Palomino: A 3-Day Beach Escape on Colombia's Coast
Palomino, a hidden gem on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, is celebrated for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. This idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for a three-day beach escape. From sunbathing on pristine shores to exploring nearby lush jungles, Palomino provides a serene retreat for travelers seeking to unwind and connect with nature.
How to travel from Cartagena to Palomino
To travel from Cartagena to Palomino, start by taking a taxi from Cartagena's city center to the bus station. Be sure to use a yellow taxi from one of the official ranks and agree on the fare before getting in. From the Cartagena Terminal, you can catch a bus or coach to Palomino. However, direct services are limited, so if your schedule doesn’t align, consider taking a bus to Santa Marta and then transferring to a connecting service to Palomino.
When booking your bus, expect the journey to take around 6 hours, but be prepared for potential delays; our trip took about 8 hours due to typical bus delays. Upon arriving in Palomino, you will find taxis (three-wheeled tuk-tuks) ready to take you to your hotel, so it’s advisable to have cash on hand. We arrived after midnight, and there were plenty of tuk-tuks available to take us to our accommodation.
How much does it cost to travel from Cartagena to Palomino? [2024 Guide]
The bus fare from Cartagena to Palomino is approximately 60,000 COP (around £12) and typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on delays. Once you arrive in Palomino, a taxi to your hotel will cost around £7, depending on your exact destination within the town.
The Journey Hostel: 1 Night overlooking Tayrona National Park
The Journey Hostel is beautifully nestled in the lush surroundings of Tayrona National Park, offering stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Renowned for its bohemian vibe, this hostel is perched high in the hills, providing breathtaking panoramas of both Tayrona National Park and the Caribbean coastline. You can unwind in the infinity pool while enjoying a drink and taking in the spectacular scenery. If you wish to go on a trip to Tayrona National Park, it's only about 5 minutes away.
How to travel from Palomino to The Journey Hostel
To travel from Palomino to The Journey Hostel, you can take a local bus from the main street. Any bus heading towards Santa Marta will stop near the hostel, so it’s convenient. First, determine which side of the road in Palomino the Santa Marta buses depart from and then you can easily hop on any of them. Just inform the driver that you want to get off at The Journey Hostel, and they will make sure to stop for you. The local bus ride is very affordable and takes approximately one hour.
Dos Aguas Lodge: 3 Nights of Quiet Tranquil Beaches in Colombia
For our final stop, we visited Dos Aguas Lodge, nestled in the peaceful fishing village of Rincón del Mar. This hidden gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast is located about 2 hours south of Cartagena. Dos Aguas Lodge is an eco-friendly retreat that perfectly combines rustic charm with modern comfort, surrounded by lush mangroves and just steps away from a serene beach. The beautifully crafted cabins and open-air communal spaces create a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. While there isn’t much to do apart from spending time on the beach, this simplicity allows you to relax and switch-off.
How to travel from The Journey Hostel to Cartagena
Travelling from The Journey Hostel to Cartagena involves a bit of planning, but it’s manageable. To start, you need to make your way back to Cartagena Terminal to catch the bus to Rincón del Mar. From The Journey Hostel, we took a local bus from outside the hostel (the same one that dropped us off) directly to Santa Marta, which takes about an hour. It’s important not to ride the bus all the way into Santa Marta city centre; instead, get off at one of the stops on the outskirts to save time and then take a taxi to Santa Marta Terminal. From Santa Marta Terminal, you can catch a bus to Cartagena, which typically takes about 4 to 6 hours.
How to travel from Cartagena to Dos Aguas Lodge (Rincón del Mar)
To reach Rincón del Mar from Cartagena, you’ll need to take a bus to San Onofre. The journey typically takes about 2 hours, but be sure to allow extra time for potential delays, as bus travel in Colombia can be unpredictable. There are approximately four buses a day that make this route.
Once you arrive in San Onofre, you’ll find plenty of taxis available to take you to Rincón del Mar, which is about a 20-minute drive away. It’s important to note that taxis cannot drop you right outside Dos Aguas Lodge; they can only get you as close as possible. From there, you’ll need to walk along the beach to the hotel, which can be challenging if you have a suitcase rather than a backpack.
Heading Home: Rincón del Mar to Bogotá
Due to the inconsistency of the bus schedules in Colombia, we opted for a taxi from Rincón del Mar to Cartagena Airport, which took about 3 hours and cost approximately 912,000 COP (£160). After arriving at the airport, we flew from Cartagena to Bogotá the night before our flight to London and stayed at a hotel near the airport for convenience.
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