Best of the Coffee Region (Zona Cafeteria)

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Zona Cafetera (Coffee Region)

Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of Colombia's Zona Cafetera (Coffee Region), a lush and verdant landscape that forms the heart and soul of Colombia's world-renowned coffee production. This region, also known as the Coffee Triangle, encompasses the departments of Caldas, Quindío, and Risaralda. It's a place where the deep-rooted culture of coffee growing blends with the vibrant colors and rhythms of Colombian life.

The Coffee Region isn't just about its globally acclaimed coffee; it's a sensory experience. Enjoy guided excursions to coffee plantations to learn the intricate process of coffee production, from bean to cup. These experiences often include coffee tastings, where you can savor the rich and diverse flavors of Colombian coffee. The region is also renowned for its natural beauty. Explore the Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm trees, Colombia's national tree. The landscape here is a hiker's paradise, offering trails that meander through cloud forests and past cascading streams.

The region's towns are equally enchanting. Visit Salento, a picturesque town with colorful balconies and craft shops, or wander through the streets of Manizales, known for its impressive architecture and cultural festivals. In the town of Filandia, you can experience the authentic charm of the Colombian countryside, with its traditional paisa architecture and panoramic views. Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, including mountain biking, horseback riding, and ziplining. For those looking to relax, the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal provide a perfect setting to unwind amid nature.

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Zona Cafetera (Coffee Region) Essentials

Expect plenty of verdant scenery in Colombia's Coffee Region
How Many Days to Spend in Colombia's Coffee Region

Colombia is world-renowned for its coffee, and most travelers want to spend at least a day or two getting to know the region where this delicacy is grown and produced. Although a single overnight is enough to glimpse the Zona Cafetera, an in-depth visit can be more rewarding. That way, you won't just see the plantations that take the world's favorite drink from bean to cup—you'll also spend the night on a coffee farm, hike the verdant hills, and meet the people who make the magic happen.

Colombia Coffee Country
Map of Ultimate Guide to Colombia's Coffee Region
Ultimate Guide to Colombia's Coffee Region

Colombia's coffee region set amidst the rugged hills between Medellin, Cali and Ibague produces some of the finest coffee in the world. Besides learning how the coffee is made, you can experience stunning national parks, vibrant cities, and quiet pueblos. We're spilling the beans with some expert tips on getting around the region and the best places to visit.

10 Best Places To Go in Colombia's Coffee Region
10 Best Places to Visit in Colombia's Coffee Region

Colombia's Coffee Region is dotted with small pueblos where life has changed little over the past century. Towns like Salento, Pijao, and Filandia still retain the same colonial air of yesteryear, when coffee farmers brought their product to market along old country roads. This list includes the best towns to visit, plus vibrant cities and also backcountry areas where you can experience Colombia's stunning landscapes.

Colorful balconies in Saltento, the heart of Colombia's Coffee Region.
The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Colombia's Coffee Region

Colombia's Coffee region has great accommodation options, from haciendas on coffee plantations to small hostels and boutique hotels in towns and cities. Use this list to find the best places to stay after a long day of biking, hiking, and coffee tasting.

Fredonia, Colombia
5 Hidden Towns Near Medellín

Tucked neatly in a valley at the base of towering Andean mountains, Medellín is a city where the scent of freshly-cooked empanadas wafts down palm tree-lined streets, where graffiti art transforms neighborhoods into open-air museums and where the peaks that overlook the city offer a lush, flowery landscape and impeccable views from above.

Coffee region of Colombia
Best Things to Do In Colombia's Coffee Region

Coffee tasting tours and visits to coffee farms rank high in any visit to this region. But Colombia's Coffee Region also offers a number of exciting activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking. When it's time to slow down you can relax in thermal baths. This list highlights the best things to do in the caffeine capital of Colombia.

Zona Cafetera (Coffee Region) Itineraries

A view over the lush coffee-growing country of Colombia.
Map of Coffee & Culture: Explore Colombia's Zona Cafetera - 6 Days
Coffee & Culture: Explore Colombia's Zona Cafetera - 6 Days

This six-day itinerary takes you deep into the lush, mountainous landscape of Colombia's Zona Cafetera or "coffee triangle." Start with a trip to an organic coffee "finca" (farm) where you'll follow the bean-to-cup process and sample the high-quality brews. After you're fully caffeinated, set off to discover the rest of the region's highlights—hiking through the towering palms of the Valle de Cocora, birdwatching in the Rio Blanco Nature Reserve, exploring traditional villages, and soaking in the thermal waters of Santa Rosa de Cabal.

Enjoy family-friendly natural activities, like bird-watching
Map of Colombia's Coffee Zone with Kids: Bogotá & Pereira - 7 Days
Colombia's Coffee Zone with Kids: Bogotá & Pereira - 7 Days

Despite its name, Colombia's "Coffee Zone" is a fantastic destination for families—a natural paradise with outdoor activities for all ages. This week-long tour starts in the capital of Bogotá before heading west to Pereira, a city in the mountainous Zona Cafetera. Here you can soak in the Santa Rosa hot springs, watch hummingbirds in the Río Blanco Reserve, go horseback riding at a Colombian ranch, and, of course, learn more about local coffee (with some cacao thrown in for the kids!)

Wax palms in the Cocora Valley
Map of Explore Zona Cafetera - 5 Days
Explore Zona Cafetera - 5 Days

Experience a taste of Colombian culture on this 5-day trip to the Coffee Triangle. You'll go to the heart of the country's coffee region in charming Salento for an overnight at a working farm and hike through the picturesque green mountains of the Cocora Valley (and the famous wax palms). Then, head to Manizales, the most adventurous of the three cities that make up Colombia's coffee triangle, where you'll visit the Rio Blanco Nature reserve.  Like the coffee this region is known for, this trip is designed to awaken all of your senses.

Learn all about Colombia's famous coffee and chocolate
Map of Discover Colombia's Coffee Region - 6 Days
Discover Colombia's Coffee Region - 6 Days

Learn all about Colombian coffee and enjoy some of the most exclusive coffee in the world on this six-day tour. You can look forward to many coffee tastings and visits to local Colombian coffee farms where you will interact with local farmers and coffee experts from around the country.

Iconic wax palm trees in Colombia's Cocora Valley
Map of Medellín, Bogotá & the Zona Cafetera - 7 Days
Medellín, Bogotá & the Zona Cafetera - 7 Days

On this fast-paced seven-day tour, you'll experience two of Latin America's most exciting cities, stay overnight on a working finca (coffee farm), and hike the Andean foothills. The trip starts in Medellín, the scenic metropolis fast on the rise after a turbulent past. You'll then head into the heart of Colombia's coffee triangle, exploring charming Salento and touring a working finca. You'll also hike the green mountains in Valle de Cocora before finishing the trip to Colombia's sophisticated urban capital.

 Bogotá cityscape
Map of Bogotá & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas
Bogotá & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting both Bogotá and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Medellín and Cartagena. If you're not interested in Medellín and Cartagena, five to seven days is enough for your Bogotá and Zona Cafetera trip. Check out the below favorite Bogotá and Zona Cafetera trips.

Valle de Cocora, Colombia
Map of Colombia Nature and Culture Tour - 10 Days
Colombia Nature and Culture Tour - 10 Days

This all-encompassing itinerary combines Colombia's popular attractions with some roads less traveled. You'll begin your journey in the "city of the eternal spring," Medellín, and visit El Peñon de Guatape, a landmark granite rock jutting hundreds of feet out of the ground. If you're a caffeine lover, get ready to visit Colombia's mountainous Coffee Region. You'll embark from this area and hike, mountain bike, and birdwatch through the adjacent sub-Andean forests. Next it's off to the indigenous archeological site of Tierradentro, with its ancient underground burial chambers. Learn about the civilization who built them, then end your stay in the southern colonial town of Popayán.

Kids will have fun on a trip to Colombia
Map of Colorful Colombia with Kids: Bogotá, Pereira & Cartagena- 10 Days
Colorful Colombia with Kids: Bogotá, Pereira & Cartagena- 10 Days

Colombia is a diverse and exciting country for families, and this 10-day tour showcases three of its highlights: the capital Bogotá, the coffee-producing region around Pereira, and the Caribbean coasts of Cartagena. Make happy family memories as you soak in the hot springs at Santa Rosa, learn about coffee and cacao production in the Zona Cafetera, go bamboo rafting and horseback riding in Andean cloud forests, and satisfy sweet tooths with a chocolate workshop in Cartagena.

Cabo de San Juan, PNN Tayrona, Colombia
Map of Zona Cafetera and the Caribbean Coast - 8 Days
Zona Cafetera and the Caribbean Coast - 8 Days

Begin your adventure in Colombia's Zona Cafetera coffee region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Cocorá Valley and its towering wax palms await. Then make your way to the Caribbean coast and the beaches of Parque Nacional Tayrona and learn about the Kogi people, who have lived in harmony with their environment for four centuries.

Kids explore the colorful streets of Cartagena
Family Holiday in Colombia: Bogotá, Zona Cafetera & Cartegena - 9 Days

Create lifelong memories on this 9-day family-friendly tour around Colombia. Starting in Bogotá, discover the city by bike and ride the cable car to Monserrate, then, fly to the Zona Cafetera to hike the Cocora Valley and discover the region's quaint villages. End on the Caribbean coast, where you'll tour the colorful streets of Cartagena, learn to fish with the locals, and relax on the white sand beaches of Barú Island. 

A mountainous plantation in Colombia's Coffee Triangle
Map of Bogotá, Coffee Triangle & Caribbean Coast - 7 Days
Bogotá, Coffee Triangle & Caribbean Coast - 7 Days

Colombia is a nation of vibrant cities, sleepy pueblos, and extraordinary landscapes. This action-packed seven-day tour gives you a taste of the true diversity of this country. Within the span of a week, you'll visit the museums of Bogotá, savor freshly roasted coffee near Salento, and gaze at the sea from Cartagena's ramparts. 

Trekking in Los Nevados National Park
Map of Medellín & Los Nevados Trek - 7 Days
Medellín & Los Nevados Trek - 7 Days

Enjoy the natural beauty of Colombia on this 7-day itinerary which takes you through the mountains and valleys of Colombia's famous coffee region. You'll undertake a multi-day trek in the Andes, relax in the peaceful city of Manizales, and then finish with some urban culture and great museums in the city of Medellin.

Hiking through the Los Nevados
Map of Los Nevados Trek - 3 Days
Los Nevados Trek - 3 Days

Enjoy the beautiful coffee region of Colombia with a 3-day hike through a forest of local palms. With 3 snowy peaks that rise higher than 4,800 meters above sea level, Los Nevados National Park extends over 58,300 hectares (more than 143,000 acres, or about as big as the city of Chicago) in the central Cordillera of the Colombian Andes. This region has an extraordinary ecosystem of flora and fauna because of the high elevation. Perpetual snow provides water here, which is essential to the preservation of life. This trek is great for adventurers looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

Finish your trip in romantic Cartagena, with rooftop bars and Caribbean sunsets.
Map of Medellín, Zona Cafetera & Cartagena - 7 Days
Medellín, Zona Cafetera & Cartagena - 7 Days

This classic itinerary covers Colombia's Zona Cafetera (coffee zone), bookended by two of Latin America’s most exciting cities. The adventure starts in striking Medellín, where you'll explore this up-and-coming metropolis with a local guide. You'll then drive to the heart of the coffee region and stay overnight at a working farm. Enjoy a day in Salento with a guided hike through stunning green mountains before flying north to Cartagena, where you'll have time to hit the narrow streets of this colonial inner-walled city. Conclude your week with a free day on the coast — perhaps a speedboat ride to the Rosario Islands for white-sand beaches.

Green coffee beans ripening on the vine
Map of Colombian Coffee & Colonial Towns: Bogotá & Zona Cafetera - 6 Days
Colombian Coffee & Colonial Towns: Bogotá & Zona Cafetera - 6 Days

This trip starts in the capital, where you'll discover colorful neighborhoods and museums on a walking tour, along with famous restaurants and nightlife. Then, fly into the heart of the Zona Cafetera and spend the night at a working coffee farm. Visit nearby Salento, a colonial town that wears its exuberance on its sleeve. While here, hike the unspoiled green mountains of the Cocora Valley, dotted with towering wax palms.

Join in on a coffee farm in Colombia
Map of Family Fun & Learning in Colombia: Medellín, Zona Cafetera & Cartagena - 10 Days
Family Fun & Learning in Colombia: Medellín, Zona Cafetera & Cartagena - 10 Days

This 10-day tour of Colombia is ideal for curious families who want to learn more about the places they visit and the people who live there. Every opportunity will be taken to teach your kids about Colombian life, culture, history, and cuisine—all while everyone is having a great time. Learn the history behind Medellín's enormous flower displays, hop on themed rides at a coffee theme park in the Zona Cafetera, enjoy an immersive pirate-themed treasure hunt in Cartagena and much more.

Go behind the scenes in the Zona Cafetera with a private coffee farm experience
Map of Luxury Tour of Colombia's Mountains, Valleys & Zona Cafetera - 7 Days
Luxury Tour of Colombia's Mountains, Valleys & Zona Cafetera - 7 Days

No mountains on earth are like the mighty Andes that pass through Colombia. Venture deep into this range on a weeklong luxury tour to visit colorful colonial villages, coffee-country farms, and the famous Valle de Cocora, a wonderland of hilly cloud forests dotted with towering palms. You'll also enjoy highlights of Bogotá and Medellín and even play Colombia's national sport—a game that involves beer and gunpowder.

Wander around Cartagena's artsy Getsemani neighborhood
Map of Medellín, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas
Medellín, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera spend about 10 to 11 days in Colombia, which usually includes some time in Bogotá and Tayrona National Park, as well. For travelers wanting to visit Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera exclusively, plan a week to 10 days for a well-paced trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Medellín, Cartagena, Zona Cafetera, and beyond.

 Photograph the charming doorways in Colombia's Old Town
Map of Bogotá, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas
Bogotá, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Bogotá, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Medellín and Tayrona National Park. For travelers wanting to visit Bogotá, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera exclusively, plan seven to nine days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in five or six days for travelers with limited time. Check out our favorite Bogotá, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera trips below.

Dawn breaks over the Colombian Andes in Zona Cafetera, a region where coffee and cocoa grow in abundance
Map of Bogotá, Medellín & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas
Bogotá, Medellín & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Colombia travelers interested in visiting Bogotá, Medellín, and Zona Cafetera, especially when also including Cartagena. If you're not interested in Cartagena, seven to nine days is enough for your Bogotá, Medellín, and Zona Cafetera trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Bogotá, Medellín, and Zona Cafetera, and beyond.

Enjoy sunsets while staying at three hotels on the Caribbean Sea (photo courtesy of Playa Dormida)
Map of Luxury Relaxation in Colombia's Coffee Triangle & Caribbean Coast - 14 Days
Luxury Relaxation in Colombia's Coffee Triangle & Caribbean Coast - 14 Days

If your goal is rest and relaxation in Colombia, you can't do better than two of its most scenic regions: the Zona Cafetera (Coffee Triangle) and the Caribbean coast. Each offers boundless natural beauty, evident in the colorful villages and verdant valleys in coffee country, where you'll start the trip. Then, head north to marvel at colonial history in Cartagena and Santa Marta, visit the unspoiled beaches in Tayrona National Park, and enjoy gourmet dining and water activities on Isla Barú.

End your two-week trip amid the colorful Caribbean energy of Cartagena
Map of Discover Colombia's Culture & Cuisine in Luxury - 14 Days
Discover Colombia's Culture & Cuisine in Luxury - 14 Days

Explore the length and breadth of Colombia, traveling and dining in style along the way. This two-week discovery begins high in the Andes with city tours of Bogotá, visits to local markets, and a trip to the colonial mountain town of Villa de Leyva. Then, fly to the famed Coffee Triangle, where you'll tour coffee farms, visit historic towns, and enjoy activities like horseback riding. The adventure concludes on the colorful streets of Cartagena with rum tastings, music workshops, island hopping, and more.

colombia
Map of Ancient and Modern Cultures in Colombia - 11 Days
Ancient and Modern Cultures in Colombia - 11 Days

This all-encompassing itinerary combines Colombia's popular attractions with some roads less traveled. You'll begin your journey on the Caribbean coast. This leg will take you to Tayrona National Park, and the colonial fortress of Cartagena. Then fly to Medellín, and visit El Peñon de Guatape before heading to Colombia's mountainous Coffee Region. Here you'll hike, mountain bike, and birdwatch through sub-Andean forests. Next, it's off to the archeological site of Tierradentro, with its ancient underground burial chambers before ending your stay in the colonial town of Popayán.

Iconic skinny wax palms in Colombia's coffee region
Map of Colombia's Cities & Coffee Region - 11 Days
Colombia's Cities & Coffee Region - 11 Days

Travelers who like to be on the move can check off three cities on this whirlwind 11-day tour starting with Bogotá's Spanish colonial sites and buzzing nightlife. You'll then fly to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight at a coffee farm and hiking through the famous Cocora Valley. From here, head to Medellín—a city with a rising culinary and art scene, as well as constant spring-like weather. End the trip on the Caribbean coast where you'll take a day trip to the Rosario Islands and explore the narrow streets of Cartagena's inner-walled city.

Discover the diversity of Columbia and its cultures
Map of Colombia from Urban to Nature: Bogotà, Salento, Medellín & Cartagena - 15 Days
Colombia from Urban to Nature: Bogotà, Salento, Medellín & Cartagena - 15 Days

With its vibrant cities, Spanish roots, Caribbean cuisine, and Indigenous cultures, Colombia is a country with many facets to discover. On this 15-day tour by air, car, and bicycle, you'll bargain with locals at Paloquemao Market in Bogotà, take a bamboo raft down the Río La Vieja, and see Medellín's urban transformation. End your trip dancing salsa and vallenato steps in Cartagena and sailing away to the pristine Rosario Islands.

Valle de Cocora, Colombia
Map of Ancient and Modern Cultures in Colombia - 12 Days
Ancient and Modern Cultures in Colombia - 12 Days

With this itinerary, you'll see the best of Colombia in 12 days. Begin on the Caribbean coast with a visit to Tayrona National Park, where you'll snorkel and hike to your heart's content. From there, hop a flight to the Coffee Region for mountain biking, birdwatching in sub-Andean forests, and a tour of a working coffee farm. End your journey in colonial Popayán and Tierradentro, an archeological site famous for its underground burial chambers.

Beach at Tayrona Park
Map of The Real Colombia - 9-Day Adventure
The Real Colombia - 9-Day Adventure

In nine days, explore the ice-capped summits of the Sierra Nevada to the white sand beaches of the tropical Caribbean coast to discover a range of indigenous and contemporary cultures, as well as astounding biodiversity. Drive across city centres and take scenic mountain roads through the famous coffee region. Experience Colombia’s warm climate and culture by river and sea on rafting and sailing expeditions. 


Freshly harvested coffee beans
Highlights of Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the Zona Cafetera - 13 Days

Start your highlights tour in Bogotá, Colombia's Andean capital. From there, head to the Cocora Valley, where you'll sleep in a typical hacienda and tour a working coffee farm. Feel the country moving ahead in vibrant Medellin and experience the contrast between the city's modern downtown and traditional surrounding villages. End your trip in romantic, colonial Cartagena, enjoying a cocktail on the famous wall surrounding the old city.

 Break up your city sightseeing with quality time in Colombia's lush coffee region
Map of Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas
Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena & Zona Cafetera: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 10 to 11 days is the perfect amount of time for a Colombia trip, with stops in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as eight or nine days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Tayrona National Park. Keep reading for more inspiring Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Zona Cafetera itineraries.

Sky and trees reflected in the Amazon River
Map of Colombia Andes, Amazon & Caribbean - 14-Day Itinerary
Colombia Andes, Amazon & Caribbean - 14-Day Itinerary

This tour takes you off the beaten path and truly epitomizes the diversity that runs through Colombia and its people. Colombia's mountains, jungles, Caribbean beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, rural and indigenous cultures combine to offer a quite unforgettable tour in one of the world's great (and yet uncharted) destinations.

Relax in the town of Salento after hiking in Valle de Cocora
Bogotá, Amazon, Coffee Triangle & Cartagena - 10 Days

For first-timers to Colombia, this fun itinerary gets you hopping all over the country starting with the cosmopolitan city of Bogotá and the lush Amazon region. Then you'll fly to the heart of Colombia's coffee triangle for an overnight at a working farm. While here, hike the lush green mountains of the Valle de Cocora before flying north to the Caribbean coast where you'll have time to explore the narrow streets of Cartagena's inner-walled city. End the adventure with a relaxing boat trip to the Rosario Islands.

Experience lesser-visited Colombian gems like Popayán on this 10-day luxury tour
Map of Colombia's Road Less Traveled in Luxury - 10 Days
Colombia's Road Less Traveled in Luxury - 10 Days

There's no better country to travel off the beaten path in luxury and style than Colombia. This 10-day journey takes you into the highlands to the Spanish colonial town of Villa de Leyva, then continues south for more history and refined gastronomy in the "White City" of Popayán. The adventure ends in the verdant Antioquia region with visits to colorful coffee towns and touring the revitalized streets of Medellín.

Your Colombian grand tour ends on the Caribbean coast, amid the historic walls and colorful architecture of Cartagena
Map of Luxury Highlights of Colombia - 10 Days
Luxury Highlights of Colombia - 10 Days

Any highlights tour of Colombia must include its top cities, most scenic regions, and best cuisine. Luckily, this luxury trip contains all three, starting with museum tours and fine dining in Bogotá and continuing to the famed "Coffee Triangle" for hikes amid towering palms in the Valle de Cocora. Then, experience tango culture in Medellín before hitting the coast for island trips and strolls around colorful Cartagena.

Shades of blue of the Caribbean sea
Map of Highlights of Colombia: Cities, Caribbean Coast, & Tayrona National Park - 15 Days
Highlights of Colombia: Cities, Caribbean Coast, & Tayrona National Park - 15 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this classic Colombian itinerary starts in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá and then travels north to the Caribbean Sea. Along the route, you'll visit the rolling green hills and colorful colonial houses of the coffee region. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Tayrona National Park before heading to the romantic inner-walled city of Cartagena and jetting off to the San Bernardo Islands.

Iconic skinny wax palms in Colombia's coffee region.
Map of Colombia Adventure: Zona Cafetera to the Caribbean Coast - 15 Days
Colombia Adventure: Zona Cafetera to the Caribbean Coast - 15 Days

Your journey starts in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Region, where you'll overnight on a working coffee farm. From there, head to the reborn metropolis of Medellín, a city whose reputation as a global hotspot is enhanced by its rising culinary and art scene. Then, it's time for a bit of nature as you embark on a rafting trip down the Río Verde and end your adventure on the Caribbean coast where you'll explore Cartagena and nearby islands.

From the colonial architecture to the stunning mountain views, this itinerary showcases Columbia's more colorful side.
Map of Colombian Andes to the Caribbean: 10-Day Itinerary
Colombian Andes to the Caribbean: 10-Day Itinerary

This 10-day excursion is perfect for an adventurous visitor seeking full immersion into Colombia's landscape and culture. Travel between colorful cities and tropical island retreats, mountain biking some parts in between. Along the way you'll discover colorful art, high peaks, soaring palm trees and delectable coffee. Cap your journey with salsa lessons in romantic Cartagena.

Taking a break with a stunning view
Map of Trekking in Colombia's  Zona Cafetera  - 6 Days
Trekking in Colombia's Zona Cafetera - 6 Days

In this itinerary, you'll embark on a high-altitude 4-day trek into Los Nevados National Park. You'll visit a working coffee farm and enjoy the unique scenery of the Páramo Eco-system here. While many travelers only see the Cocora Valley and Salento on a quick day trip, you'll get to know Colombia's Zona Cafetera from an in-depth perspective over the course of your 6 days in the region.

Salento's quaint neighborhoods
Map of Colombian Andes to the Caribbean Coast: Bogotá, Salento, Medellín, Tayrona & Cartagena - 16 Days
Colombian Andes to the Caribbean Coast: Bogotá, Salento, Medellín, Tayrona & Cartagena - 16 Days

Journey from the Andes to the Caribbean coastline on this spectacular 16-day trip through Colombia. Start in Bogotá for an introduction to its culture and cuisine, then jet off to the "Coffee Triangle" to see towering wax palms, tour a coffee farm, and float down the Río La Vieja on a bamboo raft. It's on to Medellín to tour its notorious favelas and see its inspiring urban regeneration, then over to the Caribbean coast to hike in Tayrona National Park before ending in the "Magic City" of Cartagena.

See the wind-swept páramo  landscapes of Chingaza National Park
Map of Active Exploration of Colombia's Natural & Cultural Highlights - 16 Days
Active Exploration of Colombia's Natural & Cultural Highlights - 16 Days

This 16-day active adventure through Colombia gets you up close to the country's stunning natural landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities. This journey through Bogotá, Salento, Manizales, Jardín, and Medellín is filled with hikes, outdoor day trips, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and more. Explore the vibrant capital city, trek through the coffee region's picturesque hills, and uncover awe-inspiring encounters with nature.

Colombia's Cities and Nature - 12 Days
Map of Colombia's Cities and Nature - 12 Days
Colombia's Cities and Nature - 12 Days

This robust 12-day itinerary eliminates the hard choices travelers often face regarding a visit to a country as diverse as Colombia. The journey begins by enjoying Bogotá's Spanish colonial plazas and pulsing nightlife. Then jet to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight stay on a working coffee farm. Then it's off to the reinvented city of Medellín and its rising culinary and art scene. End the trip on the Caribbean coast where you'll explore the beaches and mountains of Tayrona National Park and the narrow streets of Cartagena's walled city.

Sunset over the Amazon
Map of Explore Colombia's Amazon, Andes, and Caribbean Coast - 12 Days
Explore Colombia's Amazon, Andes, and Caribbean Coast - 12 Days

This 12-day adventure will take you through the best of Colombia. You'll travel from Bogotá to the Amazon, the rolling hills of the Zona Cafetera (coffee region), the beaches of Tayrona National Park, and the colonial fortress city of Cartagena. The most exciting part of your trip? A visit to the little-known region of Guaviare, with its mixture of jungle, indigenous communities, red rivers, and ancient rock art that dates back 20,000 years.

Start your journey in Cartagena, "Pearl of the Caribbean"
Explore Colombia: the Caribbean Coast & Zona Cafetera - 12 Days

This laid-back 12-day itinerary takes you through the highlights of Colombia's Caribbean coast, then detours south to explore the heart of the country's lush coffee-growing region. Stroll Cartagena's historic Old Town, swim in the turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands, and discover the pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park. Fly south into the Zona Cafetera for two days visiting coffee farms and hiking amongst giant palms in the Valle de Cocora, then return to Cartagena to end your journey with more culture and cuisine in the "Pearl of the Caribbean."

Iconic skinny wax palms in Colombia's coffee region.
Colombia's Coffee, Whitewater, and Caribbean Islands Adventure - 13 Days

With 13 days you can experience all of the highlights Colombia is renowned for throughout the world. Your journey starts in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Region, where you'll overnight on a working coffee farm. From there, head to the reborn metropolis of Medellín, a city whose reputation as a global hotspot is enhanced by its rising culinary and art scene. Then, it's time for a bit of nature as you embark on a rafting trip down the Río Verde and end your adventure on the Caribbean coast where you'll explore Cartagena and nearby islands.

Explore Cartagena
Map of Colombian Beat: Coffee, Food & Beaches - 13 Days
Colombian Beat: Coffee, Food & Beaches - 13 Days

Colombia's island landscapes and vibrant cities are on the itinerary for this 13-day tour traveling by air, car, boat, and bicycle. Start in Bogotá to learn about history in museums and taste dozens of Caribbean fruits in markets. Sip the best Colombian coffee in Salento and explore Medellín's revitalized neighborhoods. Relax on Tayrona National Park's beaches and on islands off Cartagena's coast, returning to the port city to learn dance moves to take home.

Kids will be amazed by the colors of Caño Cristales
Map of Family "Encanto" Tour of Colombia: The Caño Cristales Route - 14 Days
Family "Encanto" Tour of Colombia: The Caño Cristales Route - 14 Days

Fans of the Disney movie "Encanto" will love visiting the real land where it was set. Encanto means "charm," and Colombia has this in abundance, from its colorful casitas to its pristine beaches, wildlife-filled jungles, and rainbow-hued rivers. This 14-day tour is inspired by the film and will introduce you to the sights, scenes, and experiences onscreen. Set out from Bogotá to visit small towns, rivers, mountains, and coast as you spend quality family time together on this unforgettably charming trip.

Tayrona National Park
Map of Colombia Highlights: Bogotá, Coffee Region, Medellín & Cartagena - 14 Days
Colombia Highlights: Bogotá, Coffee Region, Medellín & Cartagena - 14 Days

This journey begins in Bogotá, a melting pot of people from around the country. You'll then head to a nearby small town to witness a spectacular salt cathedral, one of Colombia's most visited attractions. Afterward, head east to the Coffee Region where you'll tour small towns, visit a coffee farm, and see the tallest wax palm trees in the world. The adventure continues in Medellín, Tayrona National Park, and Cartagena.

See some of the animals and birds, like these toucans, that featured in Disney's "Encanto"
Map of Family "Encanto" Tour of Colombia: The Amazon Rainforest Route - 14 Days
Family "Encanto" Tour of Colombia: The Amazon Rainforest Route - 14 Days

Love Disney's "Encanto"? It was based on real Colombian towns and scenery, and this fun-filled 14-day tour introduces your family to the sights and experiences that make up the colorful movie. Taste foods that feature in the film, see the traditional villages that inspired its magical world, and encounter real wildlife too fantastical to be true! Whether you've seen "Encanto" once or one hundred times, your whole family will be charmed by Colombia as you travel from the Amazon to the Caribbean coast.

Medellín, the City of Eternal Spring
Map of Colorful Colombia: Cities, Mountains & Beaches - 15 Days
Colorful Colombia: Cities, Mountains & Beaches - 15 Days

Can't decide whether to explore the beaches and islands of the Caribbean coast, get into the groove of cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartegena, or take in the wonder of the Andes mountains? Over 15 days, you can do it all on this far-reaching tour. You'll get a whirlwind overview of one of South America's most diverse and alluring countries, with plenty of awe-inspiring daily activities along the way. Private guides and easy transfers by car and plane will help make your adventure hassle-free.

Discover the Cocora Valley on a hike
Map of Colombia's Best Cities & Coffee Region - 10 Days
Colombia's Best Cities & Coffee Region - 10 Days

Check off three memorable cities on this whirlwind 10-day tour, starting with Bogotá's Spanish colonial sites and buzzing nightlife. You'll then fly to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight at a coffee farm, where you'll hike the green mountains of Cocora Valley, dotted with towering palm trees. From here, head to Medellín—a city with outdoor art and spring-like weather—before ending on the Caribbean coast, where you'll explore the romantic streets of Cartagena's Old Town.

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Map of Colombia Adventure: Zona Cafetera, Tayrona Park, & Caribbean Coast - 15 Days
Colombia Adventure: Zona Cafetera, Tayrona Park, & Caribbean Coast - 15 Days

Depending on personal preference, some folks like rugged activity on their vacation while others prefer relaxing on white-sand beaches fronting crystalline waters. Others opt for the museums and nightlife found in more cosmopolitan destinations. We wonder why not enjoy it all? That's just what this itinerary offers: city life, culture, the great outdoors and plenty of time to relax.

Medellín & the Los Nevados Trek - 8 Days
Map of Colombia Outdoor Adventure: Medellín & Los Nevados Trek - 8 Days
Colombia Outdoor Adventure: Medellín & Los Nevados Trek - 8 Days

This active Colombian adventure includes three days of trekking in the snowy mountains of Los Nevados National Park, which sprawls across 143,000 acres of the Colombian Andes. Enjoy hiking through a unique high-elevation ecosystem, where rare species of flora and fauna thrive. You will also have time to explore the charming colonial town of Salento, the coffee region hub of Manizales, and the revitalized city of Medellín—the best of both worlds.

Tatacoa Desert
Map of Colombia Panorama: Deserts, Mountains & Cities - 15 Days
Colombia Panorama: Deserts, Mountains & Cities - 15 Days

This insightful adventure through Colombia will give you an in-depth look at the country's fascinating culture, flavor-packed food, and diverse landscapes. Go stargazing in the Tatacoa Desert, taste your way around historic Popayán, dance the salsa in Cali, and take a horseback ride around archaeological treasures in San Agustín. See how once-gritty Medellín has undergone a super-cool transformation and explore the pretty heritage towns and lush mountains of the Coffee Triangle.

Mountains of Colombia
Map of Active Colombia: Cities, Jungles & Mountains - 15 Days
Active Colombia: Cities, Jungles & Mountains - 15 Days

Discover the natural wonders of Colombia firsthand on this 15-day tour. Start with a hike or tram ride to the peak of Bogotá's Monserrate Hill, which towers at more than 10,000 feet (3,048 m). Enjoy day hikes in Chingaza National Park and Chicaque Natural Reserve, then explore the Corcora Valley and see working coffee farms. Visit an active volcano, take on high-altitude hiking, and fly through the jungle on a thrilling zipline adventure. End with a climb of El Peñol and Colombian street foods in Envigado.

Bogota Cathedral
Map of December in Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín, & Cartagena - 16 Days
December in Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín, & Cartagena - 16 Days

This festive itinerary begins in Bogotá, where you'll discover museum, restaurants, and nightlife. Next, jet over to Medellín to explore historical sights and see the Christmas lights. From there, drive to the Zona Cafetera to tour the coffee fields and stay on a farm. On your last leg, ring in the New Year in Cartagena and snorkel in Tayrona National Park.

Stay two nights in Salento and explore the Cocora Valley
Map of Best of Colombia's Cities, Coffee Country & Caribbean Coast - 16 Days
Best of Colombia's Cities, Coffee Country & Caribbean Coast - 16 Days

This fun and fast-paced 16-day journey squeezes the best out of Colombia's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. Begin in the capital, Bogotá, with its historical charm and top-notch museums. Then explore the cobblestone streets of Villa de Leyva and Barichara before heading to the gorgeous coffee region for hiking and horseback riding. Finish the adventure in revitalized Medellín, followed by romantic Cartagena, where you'll bike, taste rum, and boat to a Caribbean island.

A view of the mountains from Bogota's La Candelaria district.
Map of Colombian Highlands & the Los Nevados Trek - 9 Days
Colombian Highlands & the Los Nevados Trek - 9 Days

This active South American adventure spotlights trekking in the high, snowy mountains of Los Nevados National Park. A good portion of this 9-day journey will take place in the rugged outdoors before you head towards the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva in the Colombian Highlands. Start and finish the trip with time to explore the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá for colorful street art, museums, dining, and nightlife.

 Medellín & Los Nevados
Map of Explore Colombia: Medellín & Los Nevados - 9 Days
Explore Colombia: Medellín & Los Nevados - 9 Days

The core of this adventure includes three days of trekking in the high, snowy mountains of Los Nevados National Park. With ancient ancestral pathways, your journey passes through an extraordinary ecosystem with rare species of flora and fauna that rely on the snow for preservation. You will land in the up-and-coming city of Medellín, along with taking a day trip to a coffee farm to close out your Colombian exploration.

Paramillo del Quindío, PNN Los Nevados, Colombia
Colombia's Urban Cities & Zona Cafetera Trek - 11 Days

This itinerary starts and ends in two of Colombia's most exciting cities, the capital of Bogotá and the "city of the eternal spring," Medellín. In between, you'll embark on a high-altitude trek into Los Nevados National Park. In Bogotá, you'll get to know the food scene of the city before heading to the Coffee Region. You'll visit a working coffee farm and set off on a four-day trek through the central Andes. After your trek, you'll relax in the thermal pools outside of Manizales, with the still-active Nevado del Ruiz volcano as a backdrop. Then it's off to Medellín, where you'll get to know this dynamic city as you ride its Metrocable network of gondolas.

See megalithic sculptures at San Agustín, Colombia
Map of Culture & Archaeology of Colombia - 14 Days
Culture & Archaeology of Colombia - 14 Days

Over two weeks, see the highlights of Colombia's central and southern regions, from revitalized Medellín to the sultry salsa clubs of Cali. But this adventure isn't all about the cities—you'll also enjoy coffee tours in the famous Zona Cafetera, explore historic colonial towns, and visit ancient archaeological sites. A real treat is traveling to the otherworldly Tatacoa Desert, one of Colombia's many natural wonders.

A man looks out over Bogotá from Cerro Monserrate
Map of Discover Colombia's Great Cities - 14 Days
Discover Colombia's Great Cities - 14 Days

From the buzzing nightlife of Bogotá to the colorful "comunas" of Medellín and the romance of Spanish colonial Cartagena, this two-week journey hits Colombia's urban highlights—with some outdoor adventures along the way. Start with Bogotá city tours followed by hikes amid towering palms in the Coffee Triangle. Then, enjoy revitalized Medellín before wrapping up in Cartagena and lazing on Caribbean beaches.

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Map of Colombia Summit to the Sea Adventure - 14 Days
Colombia Summit to the Sea Adventure - 14 Days

This action-packed itinerary hits the highlights near two of Colombia's most exciting cities. Start off in Medellín before driving to the "coffee triangle," where you'll stay on a ranch in the Andes. From here, embark on a three-day hike through some of the last surviving snowcapped peaks in the tropics before rafting in two of Colombia's major rivers. Next, you'll head north to the Caribbean coast for white sand beaches, sailing, and a chance to scuba dive in one of the few coral reefs in Colombia. Finish off with time to explore the cobbled alleys of Cartagena's Old Town.

Paramillo del Quindío, PNN Los Nevados, Colombia
Map of Colombia's Cities & Zona Cafetera Trek - 15 Days
Colombia's Cities & Zona Cafetera Trek - 15 Days

This itinerary starts and ends in two of Colombia's most exciting cities, Bogotá and Medellín. In between, you'll visit a working coffee farm and set off on a four-day trek through the Central Andes in Los Nevados National Park. After your trek, relax in the thermal pools outside of Manizales, with the still-active Nevado del Ruiz volcano as a backdrop. Then it's off to Medellín, a dynamic place to finish your trip.

San Agustin Sculpture
Map of Authentic Colombia: Cities, Archaeology, & Coffee Country  - 16 Days
Authentic Colombia: Cities, Archaeology, & Coffee Country - 16 Days

During this 16-day tour through Colombia, you’ll visit some of the best-known–and some lesser-known–parts of the country. The trip takes you from the capital, Bogotá, to the Archaeological Region in the southwest. You’ll also head into the coffee-growing region to tour a farm and say in a hacienda. Then, you’ll fly over deep valleys and high Andean mountain peaks to arrive at vibrant Cartagena, one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in South America.

Colombia is home to several species of colorful hummingbirds
Colombia Birdwatching Adventure: Bogotá, Tinamú , El Dorado & Tayrona - 10 Days

Home to 20% of the world's avian species, Colombia is a must-visit for devoted birdwatchers and aspiring ecologists alike. This 10-day itinerary travels through three distinct climates, ecosystems, and landscapes, from the slopes of the Andes to the rainforests of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the palm-fringed Caribbean coast. Along the way you'll embark on memorable birdwatching excursions into national forests and nature reserves, searching out the many rare and resplendent species that call Colombia home.

Torre del Reloj Cartagena
Map of Essential Colombia:  Bogotá, Cartagena, & Coffee Country - 9 Days
Essential Colombia: Bogotá, Cartagena, & Coffee Country - 9 Days

During this eight-day trip to Colombia, plan to visit some of the best-known parts of the country. First, stroll the capital city of Bogotá before heading to the small, colorful town of Villa de Leyva. Then, visit a coffee farm in Armenia and learn all about the crop. The journey ends with a tour of the historic shipping port of Cartagena, where you can enjoy excellent food and vibrant nightlife.

Other popular travel destinations in Colombia
Caribbean Coast · Cartagena · Bogotá · Medellín · Tayrona National Park · Pereira · Salento · The Amazon · Cali · Rosario Islands · Leticia and Puerto Nariño · Pacific Coast · Tierra Bomba