Colombia 10 nights 11 days: Cartagena, Medellin and Bogota

Experience Colombia in 11 Days: Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogotá

This 11-day tour covers some of Colombia’s most iconic spots, including Cartagena’s historic walls, Medellin’s innovative neighborhoods, and Bogotá’s vibrant cultural scene. Priced at $3,450 per person, it promises a comprehensive journey through the country’s diverse landscapes and lively cities. The package includes all accommodations, daily breakfast, selected lunches, private transportation, and expertly guided city tours.

What we love about this experience is how it balances organized sightseeing with enough free time to absorb the atmosphere and interact with locals. The guides, like Alejandro in Bogotá and Juan Camilo in Medellin, are celebrated for being fun, engaging, and knowledgeable—making every stop both educational and entertaining. Another highlight is the carefully curated excursions, like the Rosario Islands and Guatape’s colorful town, which bring Colombia’s natural beauty and colorful culture directly to you.

A possible consideration is the fast-paced nature of the itinerary—it’s packed with activities, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a little intensive. Still, it’s ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Colombia’s highlights in a short time. If you’re interested in exploring multiple cities with a good mix of guided tours and culture, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy organized group tours with expert guides, want to see a wide range of attractions in a limited time, and appreciate sampling local cuisine and culture while comfortably staying in quality hotels. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors to Colombia or those who want an authentic, well-rounded introduction to the country.

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogotá with curated day tours.
• Expert guides make the experience engaging, informative, and local-focused.
• Diverse activities include city tours, island visits, cultural sites, and scenic viewpoints.
• All accommodations and select meals are included, offering convenience and good value.
• Authentic experiences like local markets, coffee farms, and community visits.
• Designed for travelers who prefer organized travel with a mix of cultural, scenic, and leisure activities.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 11-day journey through Colombia is an eye-opener, especially if you’re after a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting in Cartagena, you’ll soak up the historic charm of the Walled City, with its colonial architecture and lively markets. The full-day Cartagena city tour includes visits to San Felipe Fortress, Bazurto Market, and a sunset at Café del Mar, giving you both a historical perspective and stunning views.

Following this, you’ll spend two nights on the Rosario Islands and Baru, where crystal-clear waters and coral reefs await. It’s a perfect escape to unwind amid some of Colombia’s most breathtaking marine scenery. Then, a domestic flight whisks you away to Medellin, a city famous for its innovative spirit and lush landscapes.

In Medellin, the city tour highlights the Metrocable, Plaza Botero, and the Comuna 13 graffiti neighborhood—places that showcase resilience and creativity. The nearby Guatape day trip offers a vibrant town and the iconic Peñol rock, with panoramic views that are worth every step up.

Finally, in Bogotá, the high-altitude capital, you’ll explore La Candelaria, Gold Museum, and the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira, along with a visit to historic Villa de Leyva—a charming village filled with history and colonial architecture.

What We Love: The Details That Matter

One of the best aspects is how guides make each city come alive. The mention of guides like Alejandro and Juan Camilo underscores the importance of knowledgeable local experts who can weave storytelling with practical tips—whether about the best local eats or hidden corners.

Another highlight is the balanced itinerary. You’ll enjoy full-day tours packed with sights, but also get free time to explore or relax. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints, like the sunset at Café del Mar or views from Mount Monserrate, means you’ll leave with memorable photos and stories.

The local flavors shine through the planned visits—sample fruits at Bazurto Market, enjoy fresh catch on the Rosario Islands, and taste local dishes in Guatape and Santa Fe de Antioquia. The lunch included on farm visits adds a taste of authentic Colombian cuisine, making the trip more immersive.

The overall value is noteworthy. For $3,450, you gain guided tours, transport, accommodations, and some meals—plus the priceless experience of connecting with Colombia’s people and landscapes. It’s a package that offers convenience without sacrificing meaningful cultural encounters, a big plus for travelers who want to maximize their time.

A Few Considerations

The packed schedule might feel a little rushed for some, especially if you prefer more leisure time or spontaneous exploration. The itinerary covers a lot of ground, which means early mornings and full days, and you’ll spend some time in transit. Also, since meals beyond breakfast and some included lunches aren’t covered, you might want to budget for extra dining.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel accommodations, daily breakfasts, selected lunches, private airport transfers, and guided tours in each city. The full-day tours are led by bilingual guides who are praised for their engaging style.

Meals like dinners, additional snacks, or personal shopping are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries independently. Transportation between cities is via private vehicle or scheduled flights, ensuring comfort and efficiency.

Days 1-3: Cartagena

Your journey begins in Cartagena’s historic old town, where the Walled City comes alive with colonial charm and vibrant street life. The guided tour includes notable sites such as San Felipe Fortress and Bazurto Market—places that reveal Cartagena’s strategic importance and local flavor.

The highlight is the full-day island tour to the Rosario Islands and Baru. Expect to see turquoise waters, coral reefs, and a relaxed island vibe. Many travelers mention the paradise-like scenery, and the free time to enjoy the beaches and snorkeling.

Days 4-6: Medellin

A quick flight transports you to Medellin, where urban innovation meets lush scenery. The Pueblito Paisa offers a panoramic view, while the Plaza Botero showcases sculptures by Colombia’s most famous artist. The Metrocable ride and visits to Parque Arvi and Comuna 13 give insight into Medellin’s transformation and resilience.

Day trips include Guatape and Peñol Rock, where spectacular views and a colorful town await. The lunch in Guatape and the boat ride across the lake are memorable highlights enjoyed by travelers who love scenic landscapes and local culture.

Days 7-10: Bogotá and Surrounds

In Bogotá, the Gold Museum and Mount Monserrate are standouts, offering cultural depth and sweeping city views. The visit to Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral, an underground church built inside a salt mine, is often cited as a must-see for its awe-inspiring architecture.

A day in Villa de Leyva transports you to a colonial village with cobblestone streets and historic sites. The tour includes interactions with local farmers, especially on the coffee farm visit, where you can learn about Colombia’s famous coffee production process.

Final Day: Departure

Your last moments are spent soaking in Bogotá’s atmosphere or picking up souvenirs before heading to the airport. The organized transfers make sure you’re on time and stress-free, a small but crucial detail for smooth travel.

This tour strikes a good balance between guided discovery and free exploration. The inclusion of local markets, coffee farms, and community visits ensures you’ll experience Colombia beyond touristy spots. Many reviewers mention how guides make these moments engaging, sharing personal stories that deepen your understanding.

The value for money comes from the blend of accommodation quality, guided tours, and transportation. While the price might seem steep, it packs in plenty of activities and logistics that would be costly and complicated to organize independently.

Travelers who enjoy structured itineraries with expert explanations will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s ideal if you want to see the major highlights in a manageable timeframe without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors keen to cover Colombia’s major cities with guided support, especially if you value convenient logistics and insightful guides. It’s perfect for those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail and are comfortable with a busy schedule.

If you’re someone who loves cultural sites, scenic landscapes, and local interactions, this tour delivers those in spades. While it’s fast-paced, it offers a balanced mix of structured sightseeing and free time, making Colombia’s highlights accessible and memorable.

Is transportation between cities included?
Yes, the tour includes private airport transfers and flights between Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogotá, ensuring smooth and comfortable travel.

Are meals included beyond breakfast?
Breakfast is included every day, and there’s at least one lunch on select days, such as the farm visit and island tour. Other meals are on your own.

How long are the guided tours?
Most city tours last around 4 hours, with some longer day trips like the Rosario Islands (8 hours) or the coffee farm experience (8 hours). They are thoughtfully planned to maximize sightseeing without overwhelming.

What type of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in well-rated hotels, such as Hotel Dan Cartagena and Hotel Dorado La 70, with modern amenities like mini-bars and air conditioning.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s a private tour for your group, so solo travelers will enjoy the personal attention from guides and the chance to meet like-minded travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund—so you have some flexibility if your plans change.

Is there flexibility in the itinerary?
Since it’s a guided group tour, the schedule is structured, but guides are usually willing to share tips or suggest optional activities if time permits.

In essence, this Colombia tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience with knowledgeable guides, authentic sights, and convenient logistics. It’s a fantastic way to get a meaningful introduction to Colombia’s diverse cities and landscapes—perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of planning every detail themselves.