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You are in Bogotá and would like to visit the salt cathedral of Zipaquirá? Or the salt mine of Nemocón?
There are many different ways to organize this experience from the Colombian capital.
For example, you may decide to go by train. Or to add a stop at the Guatavita lake.
Should you go by yourself? Or use the services of a local agency?
All in all, we will give you all the information you need to make the right decisions.
– Pssst, we even have an exclusive deal with Bogota Pass to offer you 5% on all their tours to Zipaquirá, Nemocón, and Guatavita! Click here to jump directly to this section.
The salt cathedral of Zipaquirá is one of the most famous day trips around Bogotá.
At the same time, it is not every day that one hears the term “Salt Cathedral.”
It’s intriguing and that’ attracts a lot of people.
Beware, don’t imagine that Zipaquirá is literally a cathedral built of salt – Yes, I plead guilty.
Some of the cavities of this (very) old salt mine have been transformed to look like the inside of a church. For more than 3 years, the architect Garavito worked with many craftsmen and sculptors to recreate biblical scenes (including the Way of the Cross).
Click on the filters below to find out how to get to Zipaquirá from Bogotá ⬇⬇
It’s very easy to get to Zipaquirá from Bogotá (even if your Spanish is limited).
I give you my favorite way:
On the way back from Zipaquirá to Bogotá:
Yes, there is a train that goes to Zipaquirá. Besides, it’s not just any train.
These are steam locomotives that have been restored especially for the occasion.
However, departures are only on weekends and Public holidays.
You will then have 4 hours to visit the salt cathedral and the town of Zipaquirá.
Our tips for this day trip Bogotá – Zipaquirá:
Do you have your own vehicle?
It will be even easier.
Take the Autopista Norte (highway) and continue in the direction of Cajicá and then Zipaquirá. Do not hesitate to use Waze or Google Map.
However, avoid peak hours (7 – 9 am; 4h30 – 7 pm) otherwise it will be very loooooong.
Once out of Bogotá, it takes 45 minutes to get to Zipaquirá.
You don’t have a car and you are not inclined to take the bus alone from Portal del Norte?
No worries.
There are many tours to visit Zipaquirá from Bogotá.
It’s up to you to choose whether you want a group visit or a 100% private experience.
We work regularly with the local agency Bogota Pass. They do an excellent job.
Our favorite tours to visit Zipaquirá from Bogotá:
When booking an organized tour, you can add a stop at another Colombian highlight.
It saves you time and money. In short, we are fans!
Would you like to know more about the tours to Zipaquirá? Click here to jump directly to this section of the article.
If you are not too interested in religion and want to get off the beaten track, then I advise you to take a look at Nemocón’s salt mine.
During this one-hour tour, you will leap into the past, through tunnels that are more than 200 years old!
The atmosphere in the Nemocón salt mine is enthralling, with its water mirrors and salt stalactites.
However, tours are only in Spanish (unless you book a private tour from Bogotá).
Take a look at this page if you would like to see more pictures of the Nemocón salt mine.
Click on the filters below to find out how to get to Nemocón from Bogotá ⬇⬇
This time, you must go to the Salitre Bus terminal or to the Terminal del Norte.
Choose your bus terminal depending on the neighborhood where you stay in Bogotá.
On the way back from Nemocón to Bogotá:
The Sabana train also goes to Nemocón! However, departures are only on Sundays and Public holidays.
You will then have 3 hours to visit the salt mine of Nemocón.
Our tips for this day trip Bogotá – Nemocón:
Take the Autopista Norte (highway) and continue in the direction of Cajicá, then Zipaquirá, and then Nemocón. Do not hesitate to use Waze or Google Map.
However, avoid peak hours (7 – 9 am; 4h30 – 7 pm) otherwise it will be very loooooong.
Once out of Bogotá, it takes 1h15 to get to Nemocón.
The salt mine of Nemocón being much less visited than the one of Zipaquirá, we do not know of any local agency that organizes excursions in small groups.
However, it is possible to book a private tour from Bogotá!
We work regularly with the local agency Bogota Pass. They do an excellent job.
It is even possible to add a stop at Andrés Carne de Res.
Would you like to know more about the tours to visit Nemocón from Bogotá? Click here to jump directly to this section of the article.
This is the greatest difficulty when creating your travel itinerary.
You have to make choices.
Let me give you a little help.
As you can see, it is not very difficult to visit Nemocón or Zipaquirá by yourself from Bogotá.
Although it can be a little stressful/draining to use public transportation (especially if you don’t speak Spanish).
There is an undeniable advantage when you go on a tour to Zipaquirá or Nemocón: You can add a stop at the Guatavita lake or Andrés Carne de Res.
With our travel agency Colombia Insider, we work regularly with the local agency Bogotá Pass.
They are organized, efficient, and adorable. They are 100% recommended.
Note:
Tip: Remember to bring a jacket (it’s cool in the salt mines) and comfortable shoes.
It’s always a bit stressful to use public transportation in a big city. This is especially true in Bogotá!
There are always traffic jams, lots of people. It can sometimes be complicated if you are not used to this kind of situation.
That’s why this tour to Zipaquirá is the one most requested by travelers.
What day: Every day!
Departure from Bogotá: At 8:00 am at La Candelaria and at 9:00 am at Parque de la 93.
Duration: 7 hours
Price: 190 000 COP (- 15 000 COP discount if you use our reservation form – Book Now).
Price includes: Private transportation for the group, entrance fees to Zipaquirá & audio-guide in English.
Do you know the famous legend of Eldorado?
You know, that famous lake filled with gold that the conquistadors searched for hundreds of years.
Well, the legend was born because of the Guatavita lake. Do you want to know why? You have to book the tour in order to find out 😀
Besides, It is only a small detour to make before reaching Zipaquirá.
Physical condition: There is a 30 – 45 min hike to reach Guatavita lake. It is not complicated but you will be at an altitude of 3000 m.
Tip: Don’t forget your cap and sunscreen!
What day: Tuesday to Sunday. The laguna Guatavita is closed on Mondays.
Departure from Bogotá: At 7:00 am at La Candelaria and at 8:00 am at Parque de la 93.
Duration: 10 hours
Price: 285 000 COP (- 15 000 COP discount if you use our reservation form – Book Now).
Price includes: Private transportation for the group, entrance fees to Zipaquirá and Laguna Guatavita, audio-guides in English.
Would you like a more personalized experience?
You can!
The prices are necessarily higher, but it is a very good option if you travel with your family.
Physical condition: There is a 30 – 45 min hike to reach Guatavita lake. It is not complicated but you will be at an altitude of 3000 m.
Tip: Don’t forget your cap and sunscreen!
What day: Tuesday to Sunday. The laguna Guatavita is closed on Mondays.
Departure from Bogotá: A 8h00 am in front of your hotel.
Duration: 10 hours.
Price: The price varies according to the size of the group. 140 USD/Pers for a group of 4 (- 5% discount if you use our reservation form – Book now).
Price includes: Private transportation, entrance fees to Zipaquirá and Laguna Guatavita, professional guide in English.
Andrés Carne de Res is one of the best-known restaurants in Bogotá and it is a 100% authentic experience. There are shows, music, people dancing. You won’t get bored.
The problem is that the restaurant is outside the capital, in Chía.
The good news is that it is on the way to Zipaquirá.
What day: From Wednesday to Sunday.
Departure from Bogotá: Until 1.00 PM in front of your hotel. It is better to leave late to enjoy the early evening at Andrés Carne de Res.
Duration: 8 hours.
Price: The price varies according to the size of the group. 150 USD/Pers. for a group of 4 (- 5% discount if you use our reservation form – Book Now).
The price includes: Private transportation, entrances Zipaquirá, professional guide in English, one dish to share + 1 beverage/person in Andrés Carne de Res.
If you are more passionate about history than religion, then I advise you to choose Nemocón instead of Zipaquirá.
Thanks to your guide, you will have the explanations in English).
On the way back, make a stop at Andrés Carne de Res!
What day: From Wednesday to Sunday.
Departure from Bogotá: Until 2.00 PM in front of your hotel. It is better to leave late to enjoy the early evening at Andrés Carne de Res.
Duration: 9 hours.
Price: The price varies according to the size of the group. 130 USD/Pers. for a group of 4 (- 5% discount if you use our reservation form – Book Now).
The price includes: Private transportation, entrance fees to Nemocón, a professional guide in English, one dish to share + 1 beverage/person in Andrés Carne de Res.
I just listed my 5 favorite options. However, Bogota Pass offers more tours to Zipaquirá and Nemocón from Bogotá.
Find all information about group visits here and all information about private tours here.
We have a partnership with the agency Bogota Pass. By using our online form, you get directly:
Note: Bogotá Pass has all the bio-security protocols to operate during this complicated period of COVID-19. Bogota Pass has got the Check-in Certificado certification (biosecurity protocols at the national level) and Safe Travels which is at the international level.
Cancellation conditions:
For a refund of your deposit, you must cancel with a minimum of
+ 24 hours in advance for group tours
+ 4 days in advance for private tours
We always advise our clients to use Colombian buses to get around the surrounding villages.
There are regular departures and the prices are very affordable.
On the other hand, journeys take longer and it is necessary to communicate in Spanish (or with your hands).
If it is only public transportation that is a problem for you, then a group visit to Zipaquirá + Guatavita lake is the perfect solution.
In the end, the price difference is less than 20$ if you go by yourself.
And you would never have had the time to visit these two places in a single day.
As for private tours, this is the ideal option to have more flexibility and get off the beaten track – like visiting Nemocón in English and making a stop at the restaurant Andrés Carne de Res.
Don’t hesitate if your budget allows it!
Bogotá Travel Guide
Free online guide to Bogotá to access, in just a few clicks, all the practical information you need to visit the capital of Colombia.
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After 5 years in Colombia, we wrote a mind-blowing Free guidebook to help you to travel through Colombia
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. It’s a nice gesture to thanks us for the many hours we put in Tomplanmytrip 🙂
You’ve made it!
You will receive my first email with your Colombia Travel guide very soon – It can take up to 10 min.
You must open this email and click on “Download your Ebook”.
Don’t forget to check out your Promotion box if you’ve got a Gmail account. And the Junk box too!! 🙂
Besides, we’ll also send you another guidebook with even more information and adapted to your computer screen.
Have fun and speak to you soon!
The new trendy experience is to do glamping in Colombia.
Every day, great photos invade our Instagram feed, transparent bubbles to admire the stars from your bed, Jacuzzis with breathtaking views, candlelit meals… Sounds wonderful.
Yet there is a catch.
Glamping in Colombia is often expensive.
Pay more to sleep in a tent at the bottom of a garden with a few rose petals and mosquitoes, no thanks.
So, how to choose the ideal glamping?
By reading our Glamping Colombia guide of course!
Thanks to our experience in tourism (do you know Colombia-insider?), we have analyzed the best glamping in Colombia, and we hope to visit as many of them as possible in 2021!
On Booking alone, there are more than 174 establishments that offer a glamping experience in Colombia.
And this figure will only increase over the next few years.
The term “Glamping” being a rather vague term used by new hotels, let’s start by defining it precisely.
The notion of Glamping is not new. Far from it!
Already in the Middle Ages, kings demanded to sleep in luxurious tents when moving around their kingdoms.
Don’t worry, today you don’t have to be a king to do glamping in Colombia.
Through their glamping experience, travelers simply wish to get closer to nature while maintaining a certain comfort.
There are therefore some essential criteria to take into account before making your reservation.
Glamping (in Colombia or elsewhere) is much more than sleeping in a tent with an inflatable mattress.
It’s an experience in itself.
Click on the filters below to learn how to choose the best glamping in Colombia ⬇⬇.
It’s much more enjoyable to try to commune with nature when the environment is pleasant.
Waking up with the sun, then listening to the birds while drinking your coffee is the best way to enjoy your glamping experience.
Before you make your reservation, verify which zone of Colombia the glamping is located in. Is it in the mountains? Is it far enough away from the cities? Are there any nice spots where you can admire the landscape?
During a glamping experience, you will want to disconnect from outside noise.
You may not realize it, but in our everyday lives, we are surrounded by a constant hubbub.
Take the opportunity to embrace the silence for a few days. Select glamping in Colombia that:
Be aware that some establishments do not allow pets and minors.
It is the ideal occasion to strengthen the bonds of love or family.
You don’t go on a glamping trip to meet other people or hit on the girl who is doing her yoga peacefully.
No, you come here to spend a pleasant time with your clan.
Therefore, it is important that:
In glamping, there is the word “camping”, but above all there is the word “glamor”!
It is not necessary to have a jacuzzi and a bottle of champagne to have a good time.
On the other hand, it is important to feel comfortable.
Also, remember to choose your room carefully, because there can be a big difference between them.
Even if you don’t want to do much during your glamping trip, it’s nice to have a few options to pass the time.
This can mean reading the 7 volumes of Harry Potter, or you can ask at the front desk of your hotel to find out what there is to do in the area.
In any case, choose a glamping with activities nearby.
Some glamping in Colombia are not easy to access. Think about it before you realize at the last moment that there is a thirty-minute walk with your suitcase.
We used these different evaluation criteria to select the best glamping in Colombia and then group them according to the experience you may look for.
Some glamping companies in Colombia attach great importance to the comfort of their customers.
Everything has been studied so that a couple can share an intimate and unforgettable moment. Usually, you don’t want to come there with your children.
It is an ideal stay for:
It is challenging to find glamping in Colombia more romantic and glamorous than Bosko. The 8 “mush-rooms” of the establishment have a magnificent view of the lake. Don’t hesitate to take the paddle or the kayak to venture among the islets of Guatape. The rooms are spacious, and you can have your meals inside the dome or on your private terrace. By the way, room service is free ;). If you come to Bosko for a special occasion, take the opportunity to order a candlelight dinner or a massage for two.
The TEVA retreat glamping is the perfect stopover before taking your plane from Medellín. Select one of the 7 bungalows that are scattered among the trees of the property. These houses, built entirely of wood, are very comfortable, and some of them have a private Jacuzzi with a view of the valley. In the evenings, you can sit on your terrace to enjoy the scenery.
These glamping establishments in Colombia offer accommodations with more attractive price ranges. Comfort is always there, but there are fewer VIP services such as private Jacuzzi or candlelight dinner.
The rooms blend perfectly into the landscape and it is very easy to go for a walk in the surrounding mountains.
Montaña Glamping is a great place to discover a glamping experience at an affordable price. The tents are small but very well equipped, and you will love waking up facing the hilly landscape of the coffee region. Toilets and showers are separate, but it is not unpleasant to walk barefoot in the cool morning grass. The temperature drops in the evening, so don’t hesitate to warm your hands around the campfire. If you are looking for an even more extraordinary experience, take a look at their “bubble room.” This room is located away from the other tents and has a jacuzzi, shower, and terrace of its own!
While Lumbre Glamping is a little more expensive than its neighbor (Montaña), you will be able to wake up close to the Cocora Valley (3km). Since the closest village is 7km away, you will be a bit dependent on the passage of the Willis – the jeeps that regularly commute between Salento and the Valle de Cocora. It will allow you to fully enjoy the surrounding nature (there is even a waterfall) and to snuggle comfortably in your tent in the evening. The site of this glamping in Colombia is magnificent.
If you are looking for a glamping experience in Colombia that is comfortable and economical, then Nido Verde is a perfect choice. On the other hand, it is necessary to have your vehicle to enjoy the place. The wooden domes of Nido Verde have a magnificent view of the Iza Valley and are perfectly arranged. You can even do your shopping in the village of Iza (a 15-min walk) and then cook yourself a small dish in front of your private fireplace! This glamping doesn’t offer any activity, so don’t hesitate to visit the lake of Tota, the colonial village of Monguí, and the paramó of Oceta!
Do your shopping for the barbecue (not forgetting the bottles of wine), then head to La Quinta! This small Colombian glamping place, with its 5 small triangular-shaped huts, has an extraordinary view of Lake Tota. Although there is an option of private transportation from Sogamoso, you should come with your vehicle. La Quinta does not organize activities for its guests, and there is not much to do around the lake. Fortunately, the area is lovely, and you will be able to visit Iza, Monguí, and Paipa. Don’t hesitate to join the campfire at nightfall and order one of the good dishes from the restaurant.
This Colombian glamping is a little wonder, and it will be the ideal starting point to visit the colonial village of Barichara and the deep canyon of Chicamocha. Serrania del Viento is 1.6km from the town and provides a peaceful and pleasant place to rest between two excursions. The wooden domes and small houses built according to the traditional methods of the region are comfortable and perfectly furnished. Some even have a porch and hammock. If you feel in the mood for socializing, don’t hesitate to head for the common areas. There you will find a swimming pool, hammocks, a restaurant, and a small campfire in the evening. In one word, paradise.
Some travelers can’t stand to do anything. Some Colombia glamping are located in such beautiful places that it would be a shame not to benefit from it.
Fortunately, there are glamping sites that offer comfortable accommodation and activities.
So, are you ready to work up a sweat?
With comfortable tents scattered among the trees, come to Nativo to discover a simple and peaceful glamping experience. Plus, the accommodations are spacious enough for you to share with family and friends. The place is a bit isolated, 4km from Barichara, so I advise you to have your vehicle. Nativo offers many activities such as caving, rafting, or bungee jumping to keep you busy during your days. You won’t get bored!
With an incredible view of Lake Tominé, Bajo el Cielo is without a doubt one of the best glamping spots in Colombia to watch beautiful sunrises and sunsets. In order to enjoy the best of this spectacle, remember to select the domes. These houses are comfortable and have a huge window to admire the landscape. To escape from the heat of the day, the Bajo el Cielo glamping offers activities in the lake (sailing boat, kayak) or hiking in the mountains. Two domes have their own Jacuzzi. Don’t forget to ask for it when you make your reservation!
I saved the best Colombia glamping for the end. Entre Rios combines all the important features for an unforgettable glamping experience. The 5 safari-style tents face two river arms that slalom between the lush green hills of the coffee region. It’s a superb sight, especially from the jacuzzi, with a fresh fruit juice in your hand. One of the peculiarities of Entre Rios is that many activities are included in the price. Take a bike tour to explore the area, bird watching with a guide and improve your fishing skills (in case the planet turns into Walking Dead II).
You don’t know what to do for the weekend or you want to explore a new region of Colombia?
In both cases, glamping can be the perfect solution!
There are many glamping sites around Bogotá, especially towards San Francisco and Guatavita.
And, if you don’t mind driving a bit further, don’t hesitate to look for glamping in the Boyacá department. The colonial towns in the area are beautiful and there are many hikes through the páramos.
Glamping towards Guatavita | 1h30 – 2h from Bogotá
Glamping towards Sogamoso (Boyacá) | 3h30 – 4h from Bogotá
Antioquia has incredible touristic potential, and I am sure that many glamping sites will appear in the next few years.
Take the opportunity to rest for a few days before continuing your adventure in Colombia.
Glamping towards Guatape | 2h from Medellín
Glamping towards Rionegro | 30 – 45 min from Medellín
Santander is a department of choice for travelers who wish to do extreme activities such as rafting, caving, or paragliding.
Without forgetting that there is the beautiful village of Barichara to visit!
Glamping towards Barichara | 1h from San Gil
The coffee region has many treasures such as the Nevados National Park, the thermal baths of Saint Vincent, or the village of Buenavista.
Yes, you’ll soon realize that Salento and the Cocora Valley are not the only places around here!
In addition, the roads are in good condition and it is therefore very easy to move between the various tourist sites.
Glamping towards Salento | 40 min from Armenia
Glamping towards Armenia | 20-30 min from the airport
Some travelers are disappointed by their glamping experience in Colombia. In 99.9% of the cases, I think they could have avoided this feeling of I-paid-too-much-for-what-it-is.
Read the following tips to best prepare yourself (or simply to decide that glamping in Colombia is not for you).
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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. It’s a nice gesture to thanks us for the many hours we put in Tomplanmytrip 🙂
Are you looking for a tour to discover the Guajira Desert?
Like many of us, you are probably attracted by the great arid landscapes. Perhaps you want to experience the thrill of feeling small in the midst of cacti and sand dunes?
One thing is certain, The Guajira desert will be an out-of-the-ordinary adventure.
Since this is an unusual experience, you will find all kinds of reviews on the internet. Some people loved it, others hated it.
For what reasons?
We went 3 times to the Guajira desert and had the opportunity to meet great local partners!
Find out in this article how to best prepare yourself to do tourism in La Guajira, and above all, discover what to expect!
1. My Field report
2. Why take a tour?
3. Why visit La Guajira?
4. Who can be disappointed?
5. Our favorite local agency
6. Book it now with 5% off
7. Your questions about La Guajira
During my first trips to Colombia, I always tried to avoid organized tours.
Two reasons for that:
D – 1: One evening in Palomino, I meet Clement and he tells me about a desert further north on the coast. The experience seems rather nice and I let myself be tempted.
9 am: We leave with a small bag each in the direction of Riohacha. It seems that we have to stop in a place called “4 Vias” and then take a car to Uribia.
11 am: I realize that “4 vias” is simply a crossroads. A local packs 4 of us in a car in the direction of Uribia.
1 pm: After buying 10 L of water, we start looking for a truck in order to go to Cabo de la Vela. It’s quite easy to find. We get in the back with 12 people plus a few chickens, eggs, and at least 250 small packages of chips.
2h30 pm: It’s been a little while since we’ve left the road. I don’t know how the driver knows where to go. Maybe we are lost? At least there are big supplies of chips.
4h00 pm: We finally arrive in Cabo de la Vela. The village spreads out along the coast and there are very few people outside. The houses are mostly built with earth and plants that grow in the area (mostly cacti).
4h30 pm: In less than 20 min, a family sets up 2 hammocks on the beach for us, offers to take us to see the sunset at the lighthouse, and they know someone to drive us to Punta Gallinas.
6h00 pm: I silently contemplate the sun disappearing in a sea without waves. The colors blend, break up, and spread out in the sky. It is beautiful.
9h00 pm: The wind rises as we settle into our hammocks. I cover myself with my towel.
10h00 pm: I wake up and go back to sleep.
11h00 pm: I wake up and go back to sleep.
12h00 pm: Anyway, you understood me.
5h00 am: Departure for the tour to Punta Gallinas. We are 9 travelers in the jeep.
6h00 am: I stop trying to sleep after the thousandth bounce of my buttocks on the bench in the back of the jeep. We take a short break to watch the sunrise.
8h00 am: The jeep drops us near a sea inlet, then we squeeze into a small boat to reach the camp. I realize that the driver does not come with us. He did not say more than 15 words in 3 hours.
8h30 am: The camp consists of a restaurant and a small store to buy beers, an area to hang hammocks, and some showers + toilets. It’s time for breakfast.
9h30 am: Their jeep doesn’t seem to work today. As a result, we climb into the dumpster of a construction truck. There is one advantage; we can utterly admire the landscape. On the other hand, we have to protect ourselves from the sun and the sand.
10h30 am: The first stop is in Bahia Hondita. The spectacle of colors between the yellow-orange of the desert, the green of the mangroves, and the palette of blues of the sky and the ocean is striking.
11h00 am: We are at the Punta Gallinas lighthouse, the northernmost point of the South American continent.
11h50 am: Taroa is the last stop of this adventure in the desert. Large sand dunes overlook the ocean. I begin to race down the dune with Clément to finish by throwing us in the water. The current is incredibly strong.
12h15 pm: After a grueling climb to the top of the dune, I realize that our truck is gone. It is supposed to come back “ahorita”, that is to say between 15 min and 2 days. I take shelter under the only tree in the area.
1h30 pm: The truck is there. It is time to return to the camp for lunch.
4h30 pm: Our small group decides to take a walk in the desert to admire the sunset.
9h30 pm: The stars are starting to shine in the sky. There is very little light pollution in the Guajira Desert, lovers of beautiful starry skies will be in heaven.
10h00 pm: I settle down in my chinchorro: the typical hammock of the region. It is wide and the sides fold down to be used as a cover. I’m going to sleep like a baby.
8h30 am: Let’s go for a long trip back!
9h00 am: A jeep is waiting for us on the other side of the sea inlet. Thank goodness! There is someone to pick us up.
11h00 am: We arrive in Uribia, then we decide to take a cab back to Palomino.
2h30 pm: The end.
As you can see, it is possible to organize a tour in La Guajira without going through a local agency.
I mention it more explicitly in our article on Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas.
Therefore, you are probably asking yourself the following question:
Why should I book a Guajira tour with a local agency?
Being completely free and only making decisions once you’re on the spot is pleasant. But there are three important conditions for this to work well:
As you read my report, you notice that we took a lot of transportation to get to Cabo de la Vela and that we never knew what was going to happen.
By going through a local agency to take a tour in La Guajira, you avoid unpleasant surprises, you make your life easier and you travel much more comfortably.
Since it is easier to travel by private transportation, you will be able to visit more places on your La Guajira Tour.
Going by ourselves to Cabo de la Vela, we missed the following places:
Good local agencies take care of their vehicles and train their drivers to be more sociable with travelers.
They are not bilingual guides but at least they don’t grunt when you ask them a question.
Note that no one is safe from a flat tire in the desert. Do not stone the driver if this happens. 😀
Without going through a local agency, you might be able to spend about 350 – 400,000 COP for this trip.
On the other hand, you’ll spend more time in transportation and do fewer activities.
Now, if you are a group of 4 travelers, it is possible to find private Guajira tours for less than 600,000 COP per person!
That is a difference of 50 USD over the whole trip, which finally represents only 17 USD more per day if you spread this expense over the duration of the tour.
It’s worth thinking about, isn’t it?
Note: If you are traveling alone or in pairs, you can also inquire about joining a group 😉
How do I know it’s worth coming to the Guajira Desert?
The Guajira Desert is a hostile environment. Tourist infrastructures, roads, and jacuzzis are non-existent.
You will spend hours being shaken in a jeep, your bed will be a Chinchorro (traditional hammock) for the next two nights and it will be hot.
This allows you to discover another lifestyle, that of the Wayúu natives.
This is the ideal expedition to add a little spice to your adventure in Colombia.
It is not every day that we have the chance to travel through a desert along the Caribbean coast.
The color contrasts between the ocean, the barren land, the mangroves, and the sky are magnificent.
Not to mention the sand dunes.
And the sound of silence.
Shhh.
Everyone loves sunsets. You too, I guess?
Well, in the Guajira Desert, it’s even better. 😎
Why is that?
That’s because the sun sets directly in the ocean. Isn’t that cool?
There is very little light pollution in the desert. Don’t hesitate to walk around when all the lights in the camp are off.
You’ll love it.
La Guajira is not for everyone. Some travelers may be disappointed because they expect something different.
A bit like when all your friends tell you about that great movie that just came out and you leave the room disappointed.
They also maybe booked their Guajira Tour with the wrong local agency.
All travelers are accommodated equally.
Be ready to sleep in a hammock, take cold showers, and don’t choose your meals.
That’s part of the beauty of this adventure. But if you like your little comfort when traveling, then think twice before coming 😉
Note: It is also complicated to cook vegetarian/vegan dishes. If this is your case, prepare yourself to eat rice with rice.
The Guajira Desert is vast and there are no roads. Therefore, you spend many hours in the jeep, especially if the jeep breaks down during the adventure.
This is why it is important to choose a good local agency.
You can also decide to stay one more day in the Guajira Desert (4 days instead of 3).
Jeep drivers are not guides. Some of them know the Wayúu culture very well, although it is a knowledge they have learned over the years.
Other drivers do not want to interact with travelers.
In addition, the indigenous Wayúu are shy people who don’t mix much with tourists. Not to forget that nobody speaks English in La Guajira.
This may give you the impression that the trip is a bit “superficial”.
Fortunately, you will see (a little further on in this article) that it is possible to leave for 4 days to immerse yourself more in the Wayúu culture.
Some local agencies are less concerned about the well-being of their clients. They lower their prices to attract as many people as possible, and as a result, working conditions are less attractive too.
There is a greater turnover between drivers and their mission is only to get you from point A to point B.
Others companies are just plain illegal.
It is with full knowledge of the subject that we preferred to work with a legitimate local agency operating on a human scale:
PuraGuajira Travel!
There are more than a dozen local agencies that offer tours in La Guajira.
How to choose our future local partner?
We decided to start our research in Riohacha.
Then we did some benchmarking and decided to contact Beatrice of PuraGuajira.
And there… Love at first sight in Notting Hill Riohacha.
Beatrice and Eisneider are lovers of the Guajira Desert and the Wayúu culture.
Every day, they prove by their actions that tourism and sustainable development are perfectly compatible.
Through their expeditions, they try to transmit these emotions and values to travelers.
It’s a local agency on a human scale and you won’t be just a number.
You should know that it’s not easy to find someone who speaks English (let alone French) in La Guajira!
If you are interested, remember to inform PuraGuajira in advance 😉
It is normal to take the price into account to decide between two local agencies.
If you are a group of 4 people, their prices are in the low average of the tours departing from Riohacha.
It is possible to find tours for 500 000 COP in Riohacha, but the quality will be lower and it won’t be a private tour 😉
A private tour may seem expensive to you if you’re only a group of 2 people. If so, you can;
In short, do not hesitate and go for it!
We have a partnership with the agency PuraGuajira. By using our form, you will directly get a 5% discount on all their tours of La Guajira.
Note: PuraGuajira has all the bio-security protocols to operate during this difficult COVID-19 period.
Note: If you wish to join a group (in order to pay less), PuraGuajira will put you on a waiting list and keep you informed as you go along.
Find below 3 tours to explore the Guajira Desert:
Don’t hesitate to visit their website to learn more about their La Guajira tours.
Here are the questions/answers that you can ask yourself before taking a tour in the Guajira.
Le prix varie selon si c’est un tour privé ou non.
For us, the most important points are:
That’s why we chose PuraGuajira. Check out their Instagram if you still have some doubts 😉
Yes, it’s 100% safe if you leave with a tour. However, don’t venture alone to the border with Venezuela.
It is best to avoid the period from September to November. It is considered the rainy season, the dirt roads become muddy and travel times increase considerably.
PuraGuajira offers three very interesting and different packages:
Ebook to plan your trip
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. It’s a nice gesture to thanks us for the many hours we put in Tomplanmytrip 🙂
The Ciudad Perdida Tour is often considered a must-see on the Caribbean coast.
Yet every year, a few travelers come back disappointed from their experience.
Is it because they were expecting something else? Because they were unprepared for this jungle trek?
Probably a bit of both.
In any case, I am certain that they were not sufficiently informed, or that the information obtained was incomplete.
I did the Ciudad Perdida Tour in 2019, and thanks to this article, you will be able to:
Book your Tour
Skip our explanations and go directly to our online form to book your tour to the Lost City.
It would be a shame to spend four days hating this experience. To help you visualize it, let me tell you a little bit about my adventure.
Click on the filters below to read my trek to the Lost City day by day. ⬇⬇
9h00 am: After a quick stop at the agency, I find myself in the back of the jeep with my walking buddies. There is a 2h30 ride before arriving at the beginning of the trail. It’s perfect for getting to know each other. We are only 8 because it is the low season (October).
11h30 am: The lunch is gargantuan with soup, chicken, rice, beans, and plantains. I’ll have to roll to get going.
12h30 pm: Here comes the adventure. We take a fairly wide dirt road on which two cars could easily meet. A few motorbikes pass us on the way up. They look much happier than we do.
2h30 pm: We stop at the side of the road to enjoy a delicious squeezed lemon juice. The weather is hot and humid. Everyone is sweating and breathing hard, except for the guide and the young translator.
3h00 pm: The path narrows, and even motorcycles are no longer allowed to pass. We discover some beautiful viewpoints, before going deeper into the Sierra Nevada.
3h10 pm: Oh, it starts raining. That’s refreshing. We protect our bags, but no one takes the raincoats out. The clay path becomes an ice rink, and I pass one of my walking sticks to Alex. He came with an old pair of tennis shoes and is now performing unwished figure skating demonstrations.
4h00 pm: It’s raining so hard that gills and fins are starting to appear on my body.
4h30 pm: We finally arrive at the camp. Everyone is a little tired after this first day. We spread our soaked stuff everywhere where we can hang them up, and we rush to the shower.
5h30 pm: I wear my sock/tongue/pants to avoid mosquito bites. It’s ugly but effective. Our small group gathers at one of the camp tables, and we share our first impressions while sipping our hot drink. We are in a good mood.
9h00 pm: After a massive plate of pasta and a few beers, we head to our bunk beds, all protected by mosquito nets. It must not have been easy to bring all those mattresses back from Santa Marta.
Camp: Casa Alfredo | Distance: 9 km | Duration: 4 hours | Difficulty: 6/10
5h00 am: All the lights are on so no one can hide under the sheets. Even though I woke up many times during the night, the sleep has been restorative and I feel great.
5h15 am: The jungle arises, and a light mist rises in the valley. The parrot/pet of the camp is the star and lets itself be photographed. It also gives quick pecks, but nobody loses their finger.
6h00 am: Departure under the sun. Our clothes didn’t dry overnight because of the humidity. We ascend a good hour before starting to go down.
9h00 am: We’re arriving at Casa Mumake. We’re already halfway for this second day. There’s always a lot of sunshine. We take the opportunity to dry our things finally; then, we throw ourselves in the river. The swim is invigorating. Meanwhile, the staff prepares lunch.
10h00 am: I devour my lunch and then I find a bench to take a nap on.
11h30 am: I wake up with the bench’s mark on my cheek. Let’s go for the remaining 9 Km. It goes up and down steadily.
12h30 pm: We’re visiting a native of the Kogi tribe. During 20 minutes, we discuss different aspects of his culture, such as the use of the Poporo and the importance of the Mamos in their society.
2h30 pm: We are arriving at Casa Paraiso. There is a beautiful river alongside the camp. It’s ideal for refreshing and passing the time until dinner time.
8h00 pm: Everybody’s asleep.
Camp: Casa Paraiso | Distance: 18 km | Duration: 6 hours | Difficulty: 5/10
6h00 am: It’s D-Day. Our guide gives each of us a small bag to take only the necessary (camera, passport, and water). We’ll pick up the rest of our stuff on the way back.
6h30 am: We have to cross a river for about ten meters. The water level rises to our knees, and we use two ropes to keep our balance against the current.
06h50 am: 1,200 steps to the Lost City. Perfect to warm our legs after our forced swim.
7h30 am: The steps are small, and the ascent is relatively easy. We finally start to see the terraces of the Ciudad Perdida between the dense foliage of the vegetation.
08h30 am: Juan gives us many explanations about the history of the Ciudad Perdida. During 2 hours, we walk around the site without meeting the other groups. It gives the impression of being the only one on the site. We can fully enjoy the beauty of the different points of view and the mysterious energy released by this sacred place. We even get a small snack on the highest terrace!
11h00 am: We’re back at the camp for lunch. We still have 3 more hours of walking to end this day.
04h00 pm: With our hot drink in hand, we watch the last group arrival through the rain. They don’t look pleased. Luckily we had reached the camp before the downpour. Tip: Don’t hesitate to abandon a fellow walker in the jungle if he is too slow.
06h00 pm: Okay, here we go. Beer, fun, eat, roll, sleep. We’re in the groove now.
Camp: Casa Mumake | Distance: 13 km | Duration: 5 hours | Difficulty: 5/10
06h00 am: We have to cover the remaining 19km in the morning. Luckily, around 9:00 a.m., there’s a break for a little snack. It gives us energy.
12h00: We’ve finally arrived! I spread out my wet and smelly clothes in the sun, hoping that they will dry before we leave in the jeep. Our little gang gathers around the table with a few cold beers; then, we start planning our evening out in Santa Marta. We all deserve it.
Camp: El Mamey | Distance: 19 km | Duration: 6 hours | Difficulty: 6.5/10
Yes, it is worth spending 4 days of your trip for this adventure. On the other hand, the Ciudad Perdida trek is a demanding hike that is not for everyone.
Even if the Ciudad Perdida tour is demanding, it is still accessible to many travelers. All you have to do is enjoy walking and agree to get wet all the time.
Yeah, that’s it.
There are all the right conditions for you to try the adventure.
The Ciudad Perdida Tour is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and be proud of yourself (if you come back alive; #joke).
It’s not so easy to complete a 4-day hike in the Sierra Nevada. Every morning you will wake up at dawn, with heavy legs, an eyelid that is still half open, and your skin moist from the humidity in the air. After a hearty breakfast, it will be time to set off again, with your shirt still wet from the previous day and the sound of your shoes doing Squitch Squitch because of the rain.
A real little Indiana Jones.
Yes, you will earn the right to explore Colombia’s Lost City, and you will have new stories to tell at your next family dinner!
Because of the dense vegetation of the Sierra Nevada, there are very few viewpoints to appreciate the immensity of this environment.
That’s not the case when you’re in the Ciudad Perdida.
Once at the top of the 1200 steps, you have a 180-degree view of the green ocean that surrounds the site.
And, like Robinson Crusoe on his island, you feel very small.
When people face the same challenges, they form bonds.
I loved sharing this amazing experience with the other members of my group when I didn’t even know them!
I think it’s the ideal kind of activity to do as a couple, with family or with a group of friends. It will remain a topic of conversation for the next 10 years.
The ethnic groups living in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta have been able to preserve their cultures and traditions by staying away from the conquistadors and then the Modern Man.
They venerate Aluna, our Mother Nature, whose heart is represented by the highest peak of the Sierra Nevada: Mount Pico Cristobal Colón.
They see themselves as our Big Brothers and wish to educate us so that we stop destroying the planet. We can’t say they’re wrong about that.
To spread their message, the Kogis have invited twice the BBC to report on the subject.
This expedition does not focus on discovering indigenous cultures. However, you will still have the opportunity to chat with a Mamo ( leader) and learn more about the history of the Ciudad Perdida.
Besides, your guide is a local who grew up in the Sierra Nevada. Don’t hesitate to ask him many questions if the subject interests you!
The Ciudad Perdida Tour is a fabulous experience, but it is not for everyone.
If you find yourself in one of the situations below, take a good look at the pros and cons before you embark on this adventure.
Even if this trek is classified as “accessible”, you will still have to walk for 4 days.
And, 4 days is a long time when you’re exhausted after 2 hours of walking.
If you have never hiked for at least 8 hours, the trek to Colombia’s Lost City is probably not the best option.
Same for those with weak ankles and knees. The path is made of dirt and pebbles. It turns into a slippery trail when it rains.
The Ciudad Perdida Tour is an adventure that is demanding. If you are prepared to keep smiling when facing possible difficulties, then nothing will stop you.
The Lost City is no longer a secret, and many travelers add it to their itinerary in Colombia.
The local agencies are well organized. Groups depart at regular intervals so that hikers do not concentrate in the same places.
During the high season, the group sizes are around 20 people, and it is not uncommon to be about 100 in the camp.
If you want to experience nature without meeting a living soul, consider an expedition to Los Nevados or the Amazon instead.
Wild animals don’t like the company of sweaty, noisy bipeds.
There is very little chance you will see birds, monkeys, and other animals.
Even if 95% of the preparation is taken care of by the local agency, you still have to ensure the remaining 5%.
I’m just talking about packing your backpack and wearing the right hiking clothes.
When hiking over several days, every kilo counts. The aim is to carry only what is necessary for a minimum of comfort.
Let’s start with the size of your bag.
A 30 L bag is ideal for this trek. You can take it smaller, but it’s annoying to have to play Tetris to close it.
Your bag shouldn’t weigh more than 5-6 kg.
Again, don’t take it lightly. With the right equipment, you’ll avoid a lot of little annoyances.
There are 5 local agencies authorized to organize tours of the Lost City. The other agencies are just resellers.
The official local agencies are:
They all have a good reputation and the price of the tour is always the same. After some discussions with travelers and a lot of research on the internet, we chose to go with Magic Tour.
Magic tour complies with all the biosecurity protocols in relation to the COVID 19.
Important: Travelers will wear a mask, avoid contact with indigenous populations, and get an Anti-COVID test result (max. 72 hours) before the beginning of this experience. Magic Tour will send you the necessary information to perform this test in Santa Marta (10 – 20 Eur). You will have to arrive in Santa Marta at least 24 hours before the departure of your tour (period of time to receive the test results).
First choose whether you wish to do this hike in 3, 4, 5 or 6 days.
Then you just have to pay the 10% deposit to reserve your place. Payments by credit card and Paypal are allowed. The 5 agencies offer the same rates.
Departures are every day of the week.
Check your email inbox to receive and read the latest recommendations.
Magic Tour also gives you all the information related to COVID 19.
You’ll have to answer this email to report:
Go to Santa Marta the night before departure to get some rest and organize your things.
Note: Arrive at least 24 hours before departure if you need to do your Covid test in Santa Marta.
Regarding your travel bags, there are several options to store them for the duration of the tour.
Also, remember to withdraw money to pay the balance of the activity. It is possible to pay by card but there is a 3% surcharge.
We’ve put together some questions (and answers) you might have about the Ciudad Perdida Trek. They are sorted by category.
Also, take the time to read the previous sections, and don’t hesitate to ask us in the chat if you have any doubts.
I was never hungry during the trek. The portions of the meals are huge, and the guides regularly give you snacks. Bring some energy bars if you are afraid of having low blood sugar.
The guides take the water directly from the river and then sterilize it with tablets. Just take a bottle that you can refill during meals.
No, there are in every camp.
There is little chance you will be able to observe birds, and you will not have much time to take it out during the hike (except at the campsites and the Lost City). Besides, you have to put it away when it rains. In short, it's possible, but I don't recommend it.
No, it's not cold, and there are bed sheets. Take a “sleep bag sheet” if you don't want to use the sheets.
It is not obligatory but I advise you to do it!
Nobody took any during our tour, and the local agencies say it's not necessary. There are many unpleasant side effects with these drugs, including diarrhea. It's not great when you go on a 4-day jungle trek.
The sunniest months are from mid-December to March and from July to August. These are also the most humid months.
The rainiest months are April, May, October and November.
Yes, it usually rains in the afternoon and evening.
The trek is less fun when there are 150 people in the camp. Avoid trekking between mid-December and mid-January and during Holy Week (Easter).
No.
Yes, it's mandatory.
You can do it in 3, 4, 5 or 6 days.
There are departures every day, in fact, you shouldn't have any problems booking for the following day. It will be the same price if you make use our online form (smoother and faster).
Yes, but there's a 3% Fee.
No. It depends on your physical condition. There are kids as young as 8 and people over 65 who do very well.
All the camps used by Magic Tour now have beds. During the high season, there may not be enough beds for everyone. The last ones will have to sleep in hammocks.
No. You'll be spending as much time in the Lost City. The last section of the trek is divided into two parts: 9km for day 4 and 9km for day 5.
You walk at your own pace but there are regular breaks to wait for the last of the group. It's an average of 3 km/h.
No, but you still have to be in good physical and mental shape to enjoy it. See the section “Who can be deceived.”
Yes, there are many muddy sections that turn into an ice rink when it rains.
Yeah, but it's manageable if you're well-equipped.
No. Experience in the Amazon jungle will be more savage and more adventurous. You have more opportunities to observe animals, and the groups are smaller.
No. Tayrona can be visited without a guide, and there are many beaches. Remember to rest one day between these two excursions.
Yes, you'll come back the same way.
Yeah. Maybe this trek isn't for you if you're considering it. You can also pay extra to use a mule if you get tired on the way.
Yes. There're many militaries on the way.
No. There are no dizzying areas to cross. Just be careful going down those 1,200 steps.
Travel like a local
After 5 years in Colombia, we wrote a mind-blowing Free guidebook to help you to travel through Colombia
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What else is there to do in Cali besides salsa dancing?
Cali has no majestic buildings or must-see museums. However, the city has a dancing soul, and it will make your head spin if you decide to get carried away.
You’re not coming to Cali to visit. You come to Cali to experience Cali.
Between two wild evenings, the town and its surroundings still allow many excursions to breathe the fresh mountain air and bathe in one of the many rivers that flow through the valley.
To help you create your itinerary, I have just written an exhaustive list of things to do in Cali. Discover all the possible activities and select the ones that interest you to determine how long you would like to stay there.
Booking links are referring to reliable local agencies. Don’t hesitate to bookmark this page for your trip to Colombia 😉
There is also a list of events for each day of the week at the end of this article. Read it all the way through!
Cali travel guide
Free online guide on Cali to access, in a few clicks, all the practical information to visit it.
A visit to Cali is not going to be particularly attractive if you do it without a local guide. The city is full of anecdotes and nice little corners to explore. However, you will find it challenging to discover them on your own.
If you just want to wander around for an hour or so, head to the San Antonio neighborhood and stop for ice cream or coffee. Tierradentro’s coffee is a nugget!
There are also a few museums, parks, and pleasant walks to lighten up your day before exploring the city’s salsa bars.
No, I won’t mention Cali’s cats. It’s the most boring thing to do in Cali, and yet everyone mentions it in their list of must-does.
Some very good dancers come to dance in the different clubs of Cali. They are beautiful to see. But, if you want to admire an elaborate choreography and colorful costumes, go to a cabaret. It’s a magical thing to do in Cali!
The Caleños (inhabitants of Cali) say that it is easy to dance salsa. All you have to do is “feel the music”. Following their advice, I felt like an octopus sliding on butter. Well, it’s not that simple. Fortunately, many schools give salsa lessons. It’s up to you whether you stay long enough to take a 10-hour package or just a few one-off classes. It’s one of the most famous things to do in Cali.
If you like to dance, then you may never leave Cali. Around 5 pm, a light breeze blows and “refreshes” the streets of the town, and legs start to shake. This is the best time to have a drink on the terrace and plan the things you can do in Cali for the evening. As you will see, the Caleños are always up for a party. Check out the trendy bars of the moment.
Salsa is danced all year round in Cali, but some moments are even more appropriate than others. Feria de Cali is one of the most important festivals in Colombia. It takes place from 26/12 to 31/12. Numerous events and colorful parades take place in different parts of the city. In September, there is the World Salsa Festival. During five days, dancers from all over the world give spectacular performances to the delight of the spectators.
A giant statue of Jesus watches over Cali. The monument in itself does not deserve the detour, but the panorama over the city is impressive, especially at night. Numerous pizzerias are established along the path leading to Christ. Enjoy a meal in one of them. It’s an easy thing to do in Cali.
Reaching Las 3 Cruces is the most accessible hike to do in Cali. However, it is not a very easy trail. Some sections of the path are quite steep, and there is no shade to escape the heat of the sun. Fortunately, vendors of freshly squeezed orange juice are there to make the experience more enjoyable. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a beautiful view of Cali. It’ s the Sunday morning activity for many Caleños.
Andoke is a foundation that helps to educate new generations to preserve their environment. It is also home to an impressive butterfly house that can be visited with a guide (only in Spanish). Take the time to wander around the park to visit their laboratory and have a bite to eat. It’s an excellent thing to do in Cali with kids.
When you put it like that, it sounds dangerous. Don’t worry; it’s not. Tejo is a traditional Colombian game that consists of throwing a metal disc (500 – 700 g.) at a clay-covered target. The goal is to hit a metal circle in the center. Paper triangles filled with explosive powder are placed on this circle, and there is a loud detonation when the pebble hits them. The games are free of charge, but you have to consume (traditionally beers). It’s a thing I love to do in Colombia.
Loma de La Cruz is a small craft market in front of the Topa Tolandra. Each merchant has his own small stand with variable opening hours. The best time is around 4 pm. Every Thursday, people gather around 7 pm to dance together.
El Peñon is a wealthy neighborhood in Cali. Every evening, singers take turns playing music in this small park. It’s charming!
It’s a tasty thing to do in Cali. A Cholado is a mixture of condensed milk, fresh fruit cut into small pieces, and syrup (or other). Here it is, the ideal solution to fight against the heat of the city. A gourmet and sweet thing to do in Cali.
The Aereo Fenix museum contains many aircraft models from World War II to the present day. You will also find steam locomotives, old cars, and many miniatures.
Cali and cinema had a love affair that resulted in an explosion of cinematic creativity. A visit to the museum, with the help of an English or Spanish audio-guide, allows you to learn how the film industry began in Colombia. There are many old cameras and projectors here. For movie lovers, this is the museum you must do in Cali.
La Tertulia is a museum of modern art that organizes many temporary exhibitions on artists from all over the world, with a focus on Cali and Colombia. Explanations in Spanish.
Discover the history of salsa (which is a general term for several types of salsa). The bar/museum has many photos of dancers and artists taken by the owner, Carlos Molina, over 50 years. The pleasant atmosphere and the 33-rpm pieces of vinyl make it perfect. It’s an authentic experience that is easy to do in Cali.
Between two salsa nights, Cali offers many activities and experiences to make your trip to Colombia unique!
Let’s see the things to do in Cali!
Niels is a Dutchman who fell in love with Cali in 2010. Follow him on a Free Walking Tour of the city center to admire the different churches built from the 16th century while listening to exciting anecdotes. It’s a great and cheap things to do in Cali.
Niels accompanies you in this culinary adventure that will enchant your taste buds. You leave San Antonio to reach the largest market in Cali, the “Galeria Alameda.” Along the way, your guide will tell you different anecdotes about the places you pass through. Once you are in the area around the market, you will be able to taste delicious dishes such as empanadas de chontaduro, ceviche, lulada, or lechona. Finish with a short coffee break to digest and feel the flavor of an exquisite Colombian coffee. It’s a fun thing to do in Cali.
This Free Walking Tour cleverly mixes “street art”, “street food” and salsa stories. There is a visit to the Museo de la Salsa Jairo Varela. Don’t hesitate to ask all your questions! It’s an easy thing to do in Cali.
Private tour: a local will show you a typical district of Cali
Colombia is a country that bird lovers appreciate. The Valle del Cauca department is a particularly famous area for bird watching. Some local agencies know the best spots to admire them with binoculars, such as La Finca Alejandria or El Descanso. It is at dawn that these colorful feather balls are most active. Be prepared to get up very early!
San Cipriano is a small village hidden in the middle of a green jungle. The inhabitants have built an unusual machine to access it, as the town is entirely isolated. La Brujita is a platform propelled by a motorbike moving on train tracks. Yes, it seems strange. Yes, you have to see it to believe it. Once you arrive in San Cipriano, go to discover the local waterfalls and go down the river on an inflated inner tube. Welcome to the world of tubing! San Cipriano is the most memorable day trip you can do in Cali.
Travel by jeep to Pance to descend superb waterfalls using ropes, karabiners, and other gear. Canyoning is a sports activity that is becoming more and more popular in Colombia, for our greatest pleasure. You will be able to appreciate the beauty of nature from a new angle while receiving a good dose of adrenaline. The New Order Adventure agency impressed us with its professionalism and good mood! It is a thing you must do in Cali!
It’s a turquoise blue river that few travelers are aware of (even we haven’t had the time to go there yet). With the help of a local agency, venture into a lush jungle, jump from rock to rock, and enjoy the beauty of the Rio Danubio.
If you love nature and spectacular views, then Pico Loro is the best hike to do near Cali. However, it is not very easy to organize. Departures are only allowed between 6 am and 8 am, and it is mandatory to go there with a guide from the village of Pance. He accompanies you for an ascent from 4 to 6 hours, with some parts of the path very inclined. Once at the top, the 360-degree panorama quickly makes you forget the liters of sweat that have been running down your back. You will be able to admire the whole Valle del Cauca, as well as the Western and Central Cordilleras!
From Cali, it is very easy to travel for a few days to discover other places in Colombia.
Take a trip to the Pacific coast, run through the coffee plantations, learn how to kitesurf, or watch the condors. In short, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences that can be added to your things to do in Cali.
Let see the multi-day trips you can do outside Cali.
Pance is a small town 2 hours from Cali, and the caleños love to go there on weekends. Come here to breathe the fresh air of Las Farallones Park, reach the Pico Loro summit, watch birds, and/or cool off in the river that flows nearby. There is no public transportation in Pance. Choose a hotel close enough to the village if you come by bus.
With a strong and constant wind and an area of 70km², Lake Calima is an ideal place to practice kitesurfing and windsurfing. Many small hotels and fincas are close to the public entrada N 5, just past the town of Darien. Kitesurfing schools offer 5-day stays with accommodation, equipment, and 10 hours of lessons.
From Cali, it is effortless to reach the Pacific coast. It is also the most economical option to visit this cut-off region of the world. Take a bus to Buenaventura and then a boat to Juanchaco. Get closer to La Barra to enjoy the long beaches as far as the eye can see. It is difficult to find a local agency on the spot, so I advise you to book an establishment that offers its own activities. Don’t miss the humpback whale season from July to September!
Take a few days to Popayan if you want to discover a beautiful colonial city with white streets and eat the delicious local specialties. Its proximity to “El Purace” is the main advantage of Popayan. This national park can be visited in 1 or 2 days, and allows you to observe condors during magnificent hikes in the paramos (an ecosystem present in only 5 countries of the world).
Since Cali, you’re only a few hours away from the coffee region. It would be a shame not to go! Buenavista is the ideal place to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of a small Colombian village. In the morning, when the sun’s rays warm your face slightly, have your coffee on the terrace and enjoy the view over the valley. The icing on the cake, if the subject of coffee interests you, there is one of the best tours we have tested in Colombia. So, isn’t life beautiful?
You have to enjoy going out at night to get the most out of Cali. Let yourself be swept away by the frantic rhythms of the salsa. Admire the dancers and, if you are brave enough, invite locals to join you on the dance floor. The authentic and magical atmosphere of the city will not leave you indifferent, especially if you are part of it.
You’ll find something to do in Cali for every night of the week.
We have listed the weekly events for Bogotá, Cartagena, Cali, and Medellín in our free travel guide.
The calendar of events changes regularly. Please check the Facebook/Instagram pages for the latest news.
So, what activities have you decided to include in your itinerary in Colombia? Don’t hesitate to let us know your feedback!
👉 45 unique travel guides | Transportation, accommodation, and activities.
👉 An online map of Colombia.
👉 Our best advice for preparing your trip.
👉 A great interactive ebook to travel like an expert.
👉 Our solution for not stressing about a trip.
Travel like a local
After 5 years in Colombia, we wrote a mind-blowing Free guidebook to help you to travel through Colombia
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. It’s a nice gesture to thanks us for the many hours we put in Tomplanmytrip 🙂
The first time I went to Cartagena, I didn’t like the city. I didn’t know the things to do in Cartagena. I was only expecting to have my feet in the water and a Caribbean-flavoured cocktail in my hand.
What a mistake! In Cartagena, you can forget about walking on the beach in a bathing suit. With no plan B and a small budget, I got bored quickly.
However, there are many tours to enjoy the city if you organize yourself a little bit in advance. Moreover, it is also possible to escape for one or more days to the islands of Rosarios.
To help you create your itinerary, I have just written a complete list of things to do in Cartagena. Take a look at all the activities that interest you to find out how long you should stay there.
Many booking links are to reliable local companies. Don’t hesitate to bookmark this page for your trip to Colombia 😉
There is also a list of events for each day of the week at the end of this article. Read it all the way through!
Cartagena travel guide
Free online guide on Cartagena to access, in a few clicks, all the practical information to visit this romantic city.
With its many gastronomic restaurants and colorful alleys, Cartagena is the ideal city for lovers who wish to make a comfortable stopover during their stay in Colombia.
However, it is one of the most expensive cities to visit in the country. You’ll need to dip into your pockets if you want to make the most of it.
My little piece of advice, avoid going there during the tourist season.
Let see the best things to do in Cartagena.
The tourist sites are concentrated in two-quarters of the city, the old town center, and Getsemani. They are only separated by a hundred meters. You can get around on foot. No need for a taxi!
Let’s start with the most important thing, food! Cartagena can be very hot, and there is nothing better than devouring some ice cream to cool down. 3 establishments have a good reputation. It’s up to you to decide between them!
Imagine gourmet dishes served away from prying eyes in a charming patio lit by a subdued light. It sounds great. The ideal occasion to celebrate your trip. It’s a delicious thing to do in Cartagena.
In Cartagena, many renowned chefs use traditional recipes to prepare dishes that make Gordon Ramsay blush. What will be your favorite dishes?
With this warmth and holiday atmosphere, I advise you to start the evening with a nice cocktail. Some establishments are not lacking in ingenuity to surprise your taste buds. Count 10 Euros for a good cocktail.
If, for you, the view of the sunset takes precedence over the quality of your cocktail, then go to the city wall facing the sea. There you can buy beers on the sly or order a bottle of white wine from the Cafe del Mar. An easy thing to do in Cartagena.
We suggest it for every major city in Colombia. If you come here, you have to learn some salsa steps. It’s MANDATORY. You can take some private or group lessons. Don’t forget to head to Cali if you’re a salsa fan.
Champeta is a musical style invented on the Caribbean coast and strongly influenced by African culture. Cartagena was a slave port of great importance. Champeta can be danced alone or in pairs. Expect to sweat a lot!
If you think the sunset will not be great because of the clouds, change your plans and head for Bolivar Square. Every night, a group of musicians and dancers come to perform for about fifteen minutes. It’s very nice! This is a simple and pleasant thing to do in Cartagena.
The old center is beautiful but not representative of Colombia. Stroll through the colorful streets of Getsemani if you want to escape the hordes of tourists arriving from the cruises. There is a lot of graffiti to admire, and the early evening festive atmosphere is entertaining. It’s a free thing to do in Cartagena.
Visit the old center! It’s the most famous thing to do in Cartagena. The problem is that everyone does the same thing. A cute alley with 195 people, that’s 194 too many people. Don’t despair; nothing is lost. If you want to take nice pictures without having pieces of legs lying around, just get up early!
Be a star: Ideal activity for a group of friends or on honeymoon
Centenario Park is located between Getsemani and the old center. It is small and not very well laid out. On the other hand, a small colony of monkeys settled there a few years ago. Probably capuchin explorers and chip lovers.
This convent is nicknamed “La Popa” because it is located on a hill that looks like a boat’s stern. It is the best place to admire the city of Cartagena.
The old center is full of small shops selling colorful swimwear or handicrafts that will fit perfectly into your living room. Make sure you leave some room in your suitcase! Yes, shopping is also one of the things to do in Cartagena.
Don’t come to Cartagena to visit museums. You’ll find a few explanations and all of them in Spanish. There are still two places to visit if you are a fan of history (y que hablas Español).
During the time of colonialization, pirates have always loved Cartagena. In fact, a large majority of the assaults were ordered by other countries such as France or England (privateers). Discover the defeats and victories of this fortified city.
With the idea of protecting itself from attackers, Cartagena built many forts, the most imposing being San Felipe. The walk around the fort is nice, but there are better things to do in Cartagena. It might interest you if you have never visited this type of monument before.
Free walking tours are organized by local agencies to help travelers discover their city when they come to visit. These tours are free of charge, however, it is strongly encouraged to leave a tip. There are also some in Medellin and Bogota.
There are two companies known for doing free walking tours of the historical center of Cartagena. This is a good way to get to know some good tips and discover the city’s history. It’s up to you to see if you prefer yellow or red.
Another option to discover the cultural heritage of Cartagena is a visit to the Getsemani district. Getsemani was a notoriously bad neighborhood of workers and prostitutes. Then it gradually turned into a bohemian and artistic district. There is a lot of graffiti to admire.
Being the most visited city in Colombia, there are plenty of tours and activities to do in Cartagena. Some of them can be quite expensive. Make your choice according to your budget and your desires.
It’s nicer not to share the guide with other tourists. You go at your own pace, you choose what interests you, and you can exchange more easily and freely. Contact Beyond Colombia directly if you want to visit the historical center of Cartagena and Getsemani. The tours are only in English or Spanish.
For an experience rich in color and flavor, visit at least one market in Colombia. With Beyond the Wall Cartagena, discover the different facets of the Bazurto market, from the creation of posters, medicinal plants, fresh fruit juices, and a delicious meal. This is one of the great things to do in Cartagena.
Cooking lovers, I have just the thing for you. Depending on your budget, you can choose the number of dishes you wish to prepare (and eat). You can even go shopping at the market with your chef. It’s a unique opportunity to share a moment with the locals.
La Boquilla is a fishing village surrounded by the city of Cartagena. In a small canoe, your fishing guide will take you into the mangroves with a long pole. The atmosphere there is both peaceful and pleasant. Your guide will teach you the local fishing techniques to catch fish and crabs in this natural environment. Trapping and netting is an art!
Add La Boquilla to your itinerary in Colombia (free cancellation)
Colombian coffee is known worldwide for its balance and its acid and sweet notes. Participate in a tasting workshop to discover the characteristics of Colombian coffee. Also, find out how the different preparation methods impact the final flavors in the cup. An easy thing to do in Cartagena!
Gabriel Marquez is a famous Colombian novelist who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1982, rewarding a singular writing style, a mixture of realism, and a skillful touch of surreality. The Caribbean coast has been a source of inspiration for the writer. Discover his story as you wander through the alleys of Cartagena.
You burn calories. Then you get them back. Then you burn them again while having your hair in the wind. Free bike Tour organizes this appetizing activity to make you discover the city of Cartagena and its “street food”! A simple, interesting, and delicious experience to do in Cartagena.
Every year there is the Cartagena Film Festival (in March). The city has regularly been in the spotlight with films such as “Cartagena ou l’homme de chevet” and “El amor en los tiempos del Colera”. A sporting apprenticeship 🙂
If you’re looking for a gourmet experience to do in Cartagena, this is for you. Chocolate is like a toothbrush. It can’t be shared, except maybe with your favorite granny. In Cartagena, there’s the Chocolate Museum for family fun. Let’s go, put on your apron!
Luckily there is a rum for Colombians who don’t like Aguardiente, a local alcoholic beverage that is drunk in shots between two sips of beer to get it through. There are five known rums in Colombia, and one of them has received many awards. So, any ideas?
The advantage of diving in the Caribbean Sea is that it’s warm enough to avoid putting on a full suit. Many boats have been sunk off Cartagena. It’s perfect for playing hide-and-seek with sharks.
Climb aboard a paratrike – a kind of three-wheeled motorcycle with a sail and a propeller – to admire the city of Cartagena and the Caribbean coast. Surprisingly, it flies very well :D.
Unlike Santa Marta, there is not much to do around Cartagena, apart from sunbathing on the paradise islands like San Bernardo or Rosario.
The vast majority of the Rosario Islands are only 1 hour from Cartagena. It can be an interesting expedition if you don’t plan to visit the rest of the Caribbean coast in your Colombian itinerary.
The problem with these islands is that tourists can invade them. Avoid going there on weekends and choose your tour carefully.
Let’s take a closer look.
Isla Baru is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It is therefore possible (and recommended) to get there by road! The beach is beautiful, but there are too many people. Don’t book a tour, walk to the end of the beach and spend the night in a small hut so you can enjoy Playa Blanca at the end of the day with fewer people.
It’s a simple and pleasant way to avoid tourists. The crew of the catamaran is taking care of its guests and offers juice at will. It’s the perfect plan to take a break between two snorkeling sessions. Lunch is included, but don’t eat too much as you risk sinking.
Reserve your place to be aboard the catamaran (limited places)!
This is THE thing to do in Cartagena if you are traveling with a group of friends or family. Rent a boat (with the captain) to explore the islands. Don’t forget to have some cold beers!
Many resort hotels organize “day passes” for those who wish to rest on a paradise island and do nothing during the day. It’s not very exciting, but the scenery is splendid.
I’m all for doing it right. Spend several days on the islands to really enjoy the atmosphere there. There are some beautiful (and expensive) establishments to appreciate the Rosarios Islands fully.
Well, technically, the island of Tierra Bomba is not part of the Rosario Reserve. Because of its proximity to the coast, the sea is more turbid than turquoise around this island. This is still a good option if you want to relax on your deckchair listening to good music.
You can organize 2 tours that are a bit out of the ordinary to observe nature or learn more about the African-Colombian mix.
Cartagena was an important slave port. Thousands of slaves passed through the city. Some – including the African king Benkos – escaped and built San Basilio de Palenque. Even today, African culture is still very much present there. It’s an exciting cultural tour to do in Cartagena.
The Avario Nacional de Colombia is a huge aviary with more than 2,000 birds and 135 different species.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, I know two places that are worth a visit.
The islands of San Bernardo are beginning to be well-known but there are still fewer people than on the Rosario Islands. Choose between Isla Mucura and Isla Tintipan to feed yourself with coconuts and fresh fish with your feet in the water.
Colorful little houses on the beach, sparkling blue sea, and fresh lobsters. Once in Rincon del Mar, it is difficult to leave. This is one of our favorite places to be on the coast.
Except during the high season, there are few events at the beginning of the week (Monday and Tuesday).
I’m putting together a little list of our favorite events in Cartagena. Don’t forget to check on the social networks before going there 😉
Download our Travel Guide (free) for a complete list of events in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena.
👉 45 unique travel guides | Transportation, accommodation, and activities.
👉 An online map of Colombia.
👉 Our best advice for preparing your trip.
👉 A great interactive ebook to travel like an expert.
👉 Our solution for not stressing about a trip.
Travel like a local
After 5 years in Colombia, we wrote a mind-blowing Free guidebook to help you to travel through Colombia
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. It’s a nice gesture to thanks us for the many hours we put in Tomplanmytrip 🙂
I wrote down a complete list of things to do in Bogota and around so that you can decide the length of your stay there.
Through this post, you will get insightful and practical information to decide what to do in Bogota. I put on the side all the useless stuff like visiting the commercial center or banal activities like eating an Ajiaco.
Use our post to create a fantastic itinerary to explore Bogota and its region.
Also, there is a bonus at the end of this post. I give you a list of things to do in Bogota for each day of the week. Don’t miss it. 😉
Bogotá travel guide
Free online guide on Bogotá to access, in a few clicks, all the practical information to visit the Colombian capital.
Let’s start this post with the best tip ever.
When visiting Bogota, the best thing to do is to take an umbrella. Indeed, it’s not unusual to get the 4 seasons in one single day.
Bogota is super stretched, and it’s NOT fun to move around – traffic jams, pollution, and so on. I recommend optimizing your days. It means that you should plan your daily activities.
Also, this why it’s important to pick carefully your district.
There are many interesting districts in Bogota. Don’t hesitate to venture outside of la Candelaria to enjoy the various atmospheres.
Many Colombians can’t afford to travel abroad. They’re curious to meet foreigners and crave to improve their English (or French). The best events are Gringo Tuesday and Cafe Polyglot.
On Sunday, Bogotanos invade the city on their bike. It’s the exercise day of the week. Don’t hesitate to wander in parks if it’s a sunny day. Virrey Park or Simon Bolivar Park are both good options.
Usaquen is a lovely colonial town that has been soaked up by Bogota. It’s pleasant to have a walk around this area, especially when there is the flea market. It’s only on Sunday.
National beers are very common in Colombia, but most of them are flavorless – as almost any national beers. Fortunately, various microbreweries pop up in the capital. Some of them are fantastic! Book a tour to find out these secret gems. This is a tasty activity to do in Bogotá.
Travelers speak all the time about the nightlife in Medellin, but did you know that it’s even better in Bogota? You must head to the Zona Rosa (Calle 84) or Parque 93.
Zona Rosa is fun to party at night, but if you’re looking for more underground parties, then you need to head to Chapinero. It’s my favorite district (if you know where to go).
4.5 h. Discover the Macarena district with local bloggers.
5/5
3.5 h. Devour delicious dishes prepared in Bogotá.
4.93/5
1.5 h. A great and delicious way to taste the fruits of Colombia.
4.98/5
It’s one of my favorite things to do in Colombia. You can dance Salsa in every big city in the country, but you have to find Salsa bars (otherwise you’ll spend the night moving your hips on Reggaeton music). We can plan salsa classes in different cities.
Chapinero district is for hipsters and La Macarena is the perfect neighborhood for eating in delicious (and not expensive) restaurants and visiting art galleries. I love the restaurant Anna y Otto. If you like eating and you have some time, don’t wonder what you can do in Bogotá, go there.
More information: This post
We recommend: Ask these guys to show you their favorite restaurants
Since 2010, artists and galleries try to turn San Felipe into the new New York’s SoHo. Nowadays, there are more than 70 art spaces in this district.
It’s one of the fun things to do in Bogota. You must throw a metal disk into a box filled with clay and hope for hearing a loud explosion. You usually drink many beers too! This is one of the fun things to do in Bogotá, Colombia.
Guadalupe and Monserrate are two of the highest points to admire the city of Bogota. Visit both throughout a relaxing horse riding trip – then come down with the cable car.
Many guides and blogs recommend it. It’s a restaurant-nightclub for meat lovers. There are several events while you’re eating. In the end, everyone dances. It’s typical and fun.
It’s the fifth-tallest in South America, and you can get to the top to admire the view! A simple and impressive thing to do in Bogotá.
It’s a fun thing to do in Bogota, especially if you travel with kids. The train stops at different places and you can decide to visit one of the two Salt Cathedrals.
3.5 h. Spend the evening in the district of Chapinero.
4.85/5
3 h. Taste the best artisanal beers of Bogotá with locals!
4.94/5
4 h. Attend a soccer game at the stadium with Bogotá fans.
4.91/5
The Andean mountains flank the Eastside of Bogota and there are various hiking trails you can take early in the morning. Policemen watch out the paths to ensure the security, but it’s recommended not to hike alone. Bogotanos love to do it on a Sunday morning.
It’s the most visited trail. There is a cool view of Bogota. Once arrived at Claro de la Luna, this path divides into 3 sections: La Virgen (easy), Cerro de la Cruz (medium), Los paramos (difficult). That’s a good thing to do in Bogota if you’re looking for a walk.
A short hike leads to a crystalline river and a waterfall. Do not enter if you don’t see the police at the beginning of the trail.
It’s tough and you will suffer, but thousands of Colombians do it every week. Avoid going on Sunday as it’s crowded. The view from the top is great. You can also take the cable car.
2.5 h. Follow your local guide to get to the top of Monserrate.
4.97/5
3.5 h. Discover El Paraiso, a little known district of Bogotá.
4.9/5
3 h. Ride your electric bike through the districts of Bogotá.
4.96/5
When traveling on a shoestring budget, it’s always pleasant to know the cheapest way to visit a city. Free walking tours allow you to learn about the Culture and History of a country without spending too much money. Besides, it’s super easy to organize. You just have to show up – Although it’s better if you book it online.
I’m a big fan of Beyond Colombia. They offer various tours in the capital, and their local guides always bring a lot of good energy. Walk around La Candelaria to learn a bit of everything about Bogota.
Explore Bogota’s Downton while eating different types of street food. It’s fun and tasty. It’s a fun and tasty thing to do in Bogotá.
Drug traffickers, paramilitaries, power, corruption, evil politicians… Colombia never enjoyed a long period of peace. Why is it so messed up? The War and Peace tour gives you some clear insight to get a better understanding of the situation. For me it’s one of the best things to do in Bogotá.
There are tons of prejudices and wrong information about Colombia. Book a Heroe tour to be able to prove your friends back home that they’re wrong. It’s a comprehensive tour with fruit tasting and a Tejo game!
Thanks to Justin Bieber, artists are nowadays allowed to express their feeling with graffiti. Learn about this not-so-funny anecdote and admire the most beautiful street arts in La Candelaria.
Although free walking tours are an excellent way to discover Bogota, don’t hesitate to book a private tour (or a small size group) to discover the city. By doing so, you get a more personalized experience, and you help small local companies. 😉
It’s quite easy to move to the different Candelaria’s highlights, but it’s always better when you get the thrilling stories while strolling in the alleyways!
The guys from the Free Bogota Graffiti Tour allow you to book a private tour. It’s quite cheap and the price is fix up to 5 people. We loved it.
It’s one of the best things to do in Bogota if you don’t have much time. Your local guide shows you different areas of Bogota (Downtown, Teusaquillo, La Macarena), plus you visit a coffee roaster, play Tejo and taste Colombian fruits.
There are several excellent coffee tours in Bogota. It’s a unique opportunity to taste different types of coffee and learn about the various preparation methods. Plus, I always love the cozy atmosphere in Bogota’s cafes.
There are tons of delicious and juicy fruits in Colombia – some are super weird as well. Cover your eyes, and let your 4 other senses to be amazed by this experience.
Colombia isn’t famous for its local food, and you’ll probably be tired of ordering rice, plantains, and chicken. Eating street foods is a great way to add diversity to your daily meals. Head to Paloquemao – largest market in Colombia – or have a look on Septimazo avenue. Read this post from our friend Karen to know more about street food.
We recommend this tour instead if you want to include Paloquemao
It’s one of my favorite things to do when traveling to a foreign country. Through cooking experiences, you share so much that you didn’t even need to be fluent to communicate. Bon appetite!
Usually, I’m quickly bored in museums. However, some of my favorite museums are in the capital, and you shouldn’t hesitate to add some to your Colombia itinerary. It’s one of the cheapest things to do in Bogota.
That’s one thing to do in Bogotá that’s worth the detour. I was surprised by the quality of the explanations in this museum. This old prison is an ideal stop if you want to learn about Colombia’s History.
Spaniards became crazy when they saw all these amazing golden artifacts made by the indigenous. Learn about the different methods used on this metal.
It’s an ideal thing to do in Bogota if you’re an art lover. There is a permanent exhibition of Botero – most famous Colombian artist – and paintings of Dali and Picasso. The building is quite small, and there is a lovely courtyard where people can rest.
The Andean mountains surround Bogota, and there are tons of exciting day trips you can add to your Colombia itinerary. You’ll realize than you can stay over one week without being bored at all!
And if you want to try new experiences, why not try glamping? This new type of accommodation is very popular in Colombia, and we have selected for you the best glamping near Bogotá.
10 h. Great experience with a Colombian family in the outskirts of Bogotá. Horseback riding.
5/5
6.5 h. A beautiful hike in the largest páramo in the world: Sumapaz. Wonderful landscapes and wildlife!
4.9/5
8 h. Explore the cloud forest in the Chicaque reserve. Indigenous trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
4.95/5
Between astonishing landscapes, mighty waterfalls, and wildlife, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re a nature lover. Don’t hesitate to book a private tour to reach the different highlights faster – It takes at least one hour to get out of Bogota by public transportation.
With its almost 600m high, La Chorrera is an impressive waterfall you can admire from Bogota. The path is well-made, and there is a second waterfall you can admire on the way, El Chifflon. It’s an easy thing to do around Bogotá.
Colombia is one of the countries with the most hummingbird species in the world. Don’t hesitate to plan a trip to hummingbird observatory to admire the 18 species present in this reserve. You can also stay there overnight.
Paramos are a unique type of ecosystem present in 4 countries only. The paramo of Sumapaz is the largest in the world and the hike to get there isn’t too demanding. The landscapes are surreal. It will be complicated to do it on your own, book a tour.
The Chingaza Paramo is a bit closer to Bogota than Sumapaz, but you have to pay an entrance fee to get in. Follow your guide across beautiful sceneries made up of scared lagoons and endless valleys of Frailejones – giant plants – and observe the wildlife.
Chicaque is an excellent thing to do in Bogota if you like nature, but can’t afford a tour to the paramos. There are various well-marked trails to explore the reserve and admire the wildlife.
The Muiscas used to burry various golden artifacts during religious ceremonies. The stories also mention naked bodies covered by golden dust. Go to the Laguna Guatavita to hear the full story and admire the green lagoon.
I’ve got two interesting things to do in Bogota if you want to escape the city and learn exciting facts about Colombia’s culture.
Once you’ve found your favorite Bogota’s cafe, tasted various flavors, and learned the different preparation methods, it’s time to visit a local coffee farm. It’s an excellent option if you don’t travel to Antioquia or the coffee region.
Zipaquira is one of the most well-known things to do in Bogota, but I found it disappointing. People are everywhere, and you don’t have much information about the construction. You can take the bus to Zipaquira at Portal del Norte.
Best things to know to plan your trip to Zipaquirá.
If you absolutely want to visit a salt cathedral, but you’re allergic to people, then decide to include Nemocon instead of Zipaquira. Besides, the entrance fee is cheaper.
Best things to know to plan your trip to Nemocón.
I love outdoor activities! The two following places are ideal for adding some fun to your itinerary. There are day trips organized from Bogota, but I recommend staying overnight.
If you’re serious about outdoor rock climbing, then you probably have heard of “Roca de Suesca.” It’s a long cliff along a railway where Colombians love to practice during the weekend. You can rent the gear and take some classes.
You don’t have to travel to San Gil if you want to defy a mighty river and fly over canyons. Tobia is a little town with several local agencies ready to offer you canyoning, rafting, and zipline activities.
Being in Bogota for a couple of days can be quickly overwhelming. The best way to enjoy the capital and its region are to mix your itinerary with some lovely colonial towns.
Mongui is a little town outside of the beaten path, and it’s an excellent option to discover the quiet atmosphere in the villages in Boyaca. Hiking to the Paramo de Oceta is the main highlight in Mongui. It is quite demanding but it is a very good thing to do around Bogota 😉
Come to Guaduas to get fully immersed by the everyday life of a strange and typical colonial town. Pick a lovely hotel and switch between some wandering among the white alleys and short excursions in the hilly landscapes.
I love Villa de Leyva, and it’s a perfect place to end your adventure in Colombia. Stay in a lovely hotel with a SPA, stop in Guatavita, and Raquira on the way (you need to book a private vehicle to do so), and eat in delicious restaurants.
Travel stress-free: Hug your grandmother while we organize your stay in Bogota
In addition to comprehensive cultural tours and museums, visiting Bogota is also an excellent opportunity to experience Colombia’s nightlife. I strongly recommend staying in Chapinero if it’s the case.
Check out the Facebook pages of the places I’ve listed below before going.
You will find the full list in our Free Colombia guidebook.
👉 45 unique travel guides | Transportation, accommodation, and activities.
👉 An online map of Colombia.
👉 Our best advice for preparing your trip.
👉 A great interactive ebook to travel like an expert.
👉 Our solution for not stressing about a trip.
Travel like a local
After 5 years in Colombia, we wrote a mind-blowing Free guidebook to help you to travel through Colombia
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. It’s a nice gesture to thanks us for the many hours we put in Tomplanmytrip 🙂
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