Colombia in 11 Days: Cartagena, Medellín & Bogotá — 10-Night Cultural and Nature Circuit
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10–11 days
Fitness Level
Moderate mobility and general fitness; must be able to climb stairs and walk city blocks. Some days include short hikes and a 740-step ascent at Peñol.
Overview
From Cartagena’s sunlit ramparts to Bogotá’s high-altitude streets, this 10-night, 11-day private itinerary stitches Caribbean beaches, Andean peaks and coffee-country charm into one efficient circuit. Expect guided city tours, island snorkeling, a climb up Peñol and a hands-on coffee farm visit.
Colombia in 11 Days: Cartagena, Medellín & Bogotá — 10-Night Cultural and Nature Circuit
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The breeze off Cartagena Bay slicks your hair back before you’ve even checked in. Salt air, horse hooves clacking on cobblestone, and the pastel façades of the old town fold around you like a living map. Over the next ten nights the tempo will change—tropical calm on the Rosario Islands, cable-car climbs into Medellín’s hills, the sharp, thin air of Bogotá’s Andean plateau—but each city presses its own character on the itinerary.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize for Bogotá
Bogotá sits above 2,600 m—spend the first day taking it easy, drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals to reduce altitude discomfort.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The Rosario Islands’ coral reefs are fragile—use reef-friendly sunscreen and a rash guard for sun protection while snorkeling.
Comfortable, grippy shoes
Cobblestones in Cartagena and 740 steps at Peñol demand sturdy walking shoes with good traction—flip-flops won’t cut it.
Carry small COP bills
Markets, tips and small purchases are easiest with local cash; ATMs are available but may charge fees—notify your bank beforehand.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Tropical seabirds such as frigatebirds and terns
- Hummingbirds around coffee farm flowers
History
Cartagena was a major Spanish port and fortified stronghold; Medellín’s recent urban transformation is visible in its public transport and street art; Bogotá grew around colonial plazas on an Andean plateau.
Conservation
Coral reefs around the Rosario Archipelago are vulnerable—choose operators that follow no-touch and no-anchoring practices; support coffee tours that pay fair wages and practice sustainable farming.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cartagena
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light rain shell
Coastal showers can come quickly—use a packable rain jacket to stay dry on island and city tours.
spring specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Support and traction for cobblestones, Peñol steps and uneven coffee-farm trails.
Reusable water bottle with filter
Staying hydrated is key at altitude and in the heat—tap water is generally safe in cities but refill where potable.
summer specific
Rash guard or reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while snorkeling and reduces reef impact.
summer specific