Welcome to Colombia, the country where history dances with nature to a tune of vibrant colors and enchanting aromas. Get ready to embark on a 12-day journey that will take you to the heart of this wild and historically rich land. From Medellín, a city once notorious for its dramas but now synonymous with urban renaissance, to the coastal splendor of Cartagena, each stage of our itinerary will narrate a part of Colombian history. You will begin your adventure in the picturesque streets of Medellín, before escaping to Guatapé to climb the famous Peñol stairs – an adventure said to tone calves and broaden panoramas! A quick flight will take you to Santa Marta, the gateway to the majestic Tayrona Park where fine sandy beaches flirt with the indigenous jungle. Finally, savor the colonial streets of Cartagena, a perfect spot to conclude this journey. Ready to (knowingly) lose yourself in Colombian magic? Prepare your sunglasses, your swimsuit, and a good dose of curiosity – because this adventure promises outrageously memorable discoveries! Bon voyage!

Top 10 Activities

Discover Medellín, City of Modernity and History (Day 1 to Day 3)

Medellín, once a city with a tumultuous reputation, is now the shining symbol of resilience and urban innovation. When you think of a transformation worthy of a Hollywood movie , Medellín takes the spotlight. As you stroll along bustling streets lined with green mountains, you'll feel the vibrant energy of this bustling city. You will start your stay with a visit to Comuna 13, an area once eminently dangerous, now reinvented into an artistic explosion of graffiti and street art. The cable metro, an urban innovation, will offer you a breathtaking view of the city below. Then, head downtown to discover the famous Parque de las Luces, where luminous columns make the light dance while telling you the story of this booming city. Don't miss the famous Museo de Antioquia where the works of a certain Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, will amuse you with their coquettish proportions. Dive into a journey of emotions and discoveries in Medellín, where the complex past blends into an animated and promising future. 🍃

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Once you've explored Medellín, you'll leave this hub of modernity with memories full of sights – and perhaps one or two extra kilos (thanks to the arepas!). Prepare to head towards Guatapé for an even more colorful experience! 🎨

Colorful Escape to guatapé and Climbing the Peñol (Day 4)

After the vibrant liveliness of Medellín, it's time to set your eyes on another masterpiece of nature in Colombia: Guatapé. Located about 79 km from Medellín, this village will charm you with its brightly colored houses that transform every street corner into an open-air art gallery. But the true gem of this stage lies in climbing the Peñol, or Peñón de Guatapé, where 1,200 steps separate you from a spectacular view that, admit it, takes your breath away both physically and visually. Spend the day strolling through the colorful village , where each building tells its own story through bas-reliefs and murals. Then , put on your most comfortable shoes and prepare to climb the Peñol; at the top, a reward awaits in the form of a stunning panorama over the sparkling blue islands. It's a day that, though short , promises long-lasting memories! 🌈

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After being amazed by the bright colors and panoramas of Guatapé, prepare for new adventures in Santa Marta. Let this village fill your dreams with its bursts of light and nature. 🌟

between Beaches and History in Santa Marta (Day 6 to Day 7)

Let's now fly to Santa Marta, a coastal gem of Colombia that will welcome you with its paradisiacal beaches and rich cultural heritage. The first city founded by the Spaniards in Colombia, Santa Marta is much more than just a seaside destination; it is a gateway to historical stories and breathtaking natural landscapes. You will discover the magic of this city by strolling through its historic center with cobbled streets , lined with colorful buildings and old churches. Immerse yourself in history by visiting the Quinta de San pedro alejandrino , where the Libertador Simón Bolívar spent his last days. It is a pilgrimage site for those fascinated by the history of Latin America. After a good dose of culture, it will be time to bask in the sun on the magnificent beaches of Taganga or Playa blanca. here, the crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, snorkel, or simply relax. Santa Marta is an ideal starting point for various excursions , notably to the Tayrona natural park, which we will explore next. Put on your sun hat and prepare your flip-flops, Santa marta awaits you! ☀️🏝️

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As you leave Santa Marta, you will take with you a piece of the Caribbean coast and a lasting impression of its captivating tales. get ready now to discover the natural splendor of Tayrona National Park. 🏞️

Immersion in the Wild Nature of Tayrona Park (Day 8 to Day 10)

Next stop: Tayrona National Park, where natural history and indigenous spirituality intertwine harmoniously. Nestled between the azure blue of the Caribbean Sea and the dense jungle of the Sierra Nevada, Tayrona is a sanctuary for those seeking to reconnect with nature in all its splendor. Here, secluded beaches offer a refuge away from the modern world, while hiking trails wind through the remnants of the Tayrona civilization, one of the oldest in Colombia. Start each day with a hike through the lush jungle , where howler monkeys may sometimes be your companions. Upon reaching the beaches of Cabo San Juan or La Piscina, the temptation to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters is irresistible. Don't miss a visit to Pueblito, an archaeological site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the ancient Tayrona inhabitants. A stay in Tayrona is an invitation to disconnect and reset, surrounded by the whisper of trees and the lapping of waves. Prepare to experience moments of wonder and tranquility in this natural paradise. 🌿🐒

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as you leave Tayrona Park, you will have tasted the timeless magic of this place where land and sea embrace. The next stage will take you to cartagena, to conclude this rich and diverse itinerary in style. 🌅

cartagena: Fusion of Colonial History and Tropical Charm (Day 11 to Day 12)

To conclude this Colombian journey in style, we set our bags down in Cartagena, a city that seems straight out of a pirate tale. With its imposing wall surrounding the historic center and its flowered balconies hanging over cobbled streets , Cartagena invites you to wander aimlessly other than to soak up its magic. Known for its dazzling colonial architecture, cartagena is also a city of aromas and flavors that will ensnare you in an irresistible culinary dance. Start with a walk through the old town, where each building tells a colorful story. Don't miss a visit to the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the most impressive fortress ever built by the Spanish in their colonies. then, let yourself be enchanted by the Getsemaní neighborhood, a place vibrant with art and Latin rhythms. Finally, end your day on the beach of Bocagrande, where fine sand and the Caribbean Sea will surely seduce you. Cartagena is a city where the past meets the present, and where every street corner offers a new surprise to discover. Prepare to fall in love with this Caribbean pearl! 🏰🏖️

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Cartagena is a city that will imprint its charm on your heart , a perfect conclusion for this journey in Colombia. As you prepare to pack your bags for home, let nostalgia for the colors, sounds, and flavors that accompanied your steps throughout this adventure. Goodbye and see you soon, sweet Colombia! 🎨🕌

Practical Information

Climate: Located near the equator, Colombia offers a varied climate ranging from the tropical heat of the coasts to the coolness of the mountains. The weather is generally warm in Cartagena and Santa Marta, while Medellín enjoys its eternal spring.

Transport: Traveling in Colombia is an adventure in itself. Local airlines connect major cities, while bus transportation is efficient and affordable for intercity travel. A word of advice: plan ahead for travel during high season.

When to go?: The ideal months to visit Colombia are from December to March, during the dry season. However, the beauty of its landscapes varies from season to season, always offering something to discover.

Budget: Expect to spend between 30 and 100 € per day depending on your travel style. Colombia offers excellent value for money, with options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to friendly hostels.

Practical Tips:

• Don't forget your sunscreen, the sun can be intense!
• Learn a few phrases in Spanish, the locals will appreciate it.
• Avoid traveling alone at night in isolated areas.
• Bargaining is part of the shopping experience!
• Take the opportunity to taste the wide variety of tropical fruits.

This practical information will help you prepare for your trip to Colombia and fully enjoy your adventure in this country with rich and diverse landscapes.

Your fantastic 12-day adventure in Colombia is coming to an end, but the memories you take away will last forever. From the lush mountains of Medellín to the golden beaches of Cartagena , every moment spent in this unique country has opened a window to the cultural and natural richness of this South American gem. We hope this experience inspires you to return and explore even more, as Colombia always has new secrets to reveal. See you soon for new adventures! ✈️🇨🇴