Colombia
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Colombia: from Caribbean heat to coffee hills
Colombia is a country that draws you in. It’s vibrant and layered—coastal heat, dense jungle, and wide-open mountain valleys. Spending at least a few weeks in Colombia allows time to experience its culture, cuisine, and local life. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Best time of year to visit
Best weather conditions in December to March
- Colombia: from Caribbean heat to coffee hills
- Bogota: high-altitude bustle, bold flavors, and big city contrasts
- Cartagena: where balconies bloom and music spills into the streets
- Medellín: green hills, warm nights, and a city that invites you to stay a little longer
- Palomino: a hammock, a float down the river, and nothing on the agenda
- Salento: cloud forests, coffee farms, and Colombia’s most iconic valley
- Tayrona National Park: jungle trails, wild beaches, and the joy of being unreachable
- Discover your next Destination
City
Bogota: high-altitude bustle, bold flavors, and big city contrasts
Bogotá is Colombia’s capital in every sense—busy, layered, and full of sharp contrasts. Perched over 2,600 meters above sea level, the air is cooler. Bogotá isn’t always love at first sight, but after a couple of days exploring, its mix of history, culture, and energy quickly grows on you.
Stay at Viajero Bogota
Viajero Bogotá is a social, well‑located base in La Candelaria, putting you steps from Plaza Bolívar, museums, cafés, and bars. The hostel’s communal spaces make it easy to relax, meet fellow travellers, and recharge after exploring the city.
What to do
La Candelaria – Start in the city’s historic heart, where colonial buildings and cobbled streets sit alongside lively plazas, political murals, and tiny empanada shops. A bike tour is one of the best ways to explore, taking you through markets, museums, and neighborhoods you might not discover on your own. Don’t miss tejo, a traditional local game that’s both social and exciting.
Chapinero & Zona G – Head north to experience Bogotá’s modern side. These neighborhoods are packed with standout coffee shops, restaurants, and rooftop bars, offering a more contemporary urban vibe.
City
Cartagena: where balconies bloom and music spills into the streets
Cartagena is a city made for adventure and long evenings. The historic Old Town charms with cobbled streets and colonial facades, while Getsemaní offers the real pulse—art-filled alleyways, street food stalls and dance circles.
Stay at República Hostel
A courtyard-style hostel perfect for travelers looking for space, social vibes, and a central location. The open layout makes it easy to meet fellow travelers, and the shared areas are great for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Stat at Mama Waldy Hostel
Mama Waldy Hostel is a smaller, more intimate option for those who prefer a quiete stay. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere makes it feel more like a local guesthouse than a typical hostel.
Where to eat
La Cevichería – a small, casual spot famous for its fresh seafood and ceviche. The restaurant’s outdoor seating lets visitors enjoy the bustling streets while sampling the dishes, and service is friendly though the place can get busy, especially around lunchtime.
What to do
Linger in the cafés and galleries of Getsemaní. As night falls, head to Plaza de la Trinidad where the city truly comes alive. Just remember—it’s hot and humid year-round, so plan early explorations and take the shade when it finds you.
City
Medellín: green hills, warm nights, and a city that invites you to stay a little longer
Tucked into a lush valley and surrounded by mountains, Medellín is a city that surprises with its softness. The weather is spring-like year-round, the neighbourhoods are walkable and welcoming, and the days flow easily from coffee in the sun to evenings at rooftop bars.
Stay at Los Patios Hostel
Los Patios offers a laid-back base with great views and a welcoming, social atmosphere. Relax in the communal areas, swap travel stories with fellow guests, or take in the sunset from the terrace. The hostel also has cozy dorms and private rooms for those who prefer a bit more privacy.
Where to drink
Bonhomia – for a great place to have a drink, head to Bonhomia known for its relaxed vibe and carefully crafted cocktails.
What to do
A bike tour – a great way to learn more about the city and discover hidden corners, including the striking sculptures in La Candelaria.
Football match – For a truly local experience, catch a football match at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium (or one of the other stadiums). The booming chants and electric energy in the stands make it one of Medellín’s most unforgettable nights out.
Sea
Palomino: a hammock, a float down the river, and nothing on the agenda
Further along the coast, Palomino is a laid-back coastal town where life moves slowly, but there’s plenty to explore if you go looking—rivers to tube, beaches to walk, and mountains just beyond the horizon. Palm-lined beaches, gentle days, and a slow rhythm define the place, but there’s also a growing surf scene.
Stay at Dreamer Palomino
Dreamer Palomino is a welcoming hostel close to the beach with a chill common area, cozy dorms, and private rooms. Start your day with a surf session in the soft morning light, or unwind later with a hammock by the river as the sun sets.
Where to eat
Frequency Café & Brunch – a great spot, serving fresh, flavorful dishes in a cozy, laid-back setting.
Where to drink
Playa Mojito – a lively spot with refreshing cocktails and a relaxed, beachy vibe.
Nature
Salento: cloud forests, coffee farms, and Colombia’s most iconic valley
Salento is a colourful town in the heart of the coffee region, surrounded by green hills and tall wax palms. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Cocora Valley—on foot or, even better, by mountain bike.
Stay at Viajero Salento Hostel
Viajero Salento Hostel offers a peaceful hillside setting just above the center, with great views. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect base for hiking the Cocora Valley, exploring coffee farms, or simply enjoying the town’s colourful streets. The hostel’s communal areas and terrace provide a quiet spot to unwind, soak in the scenery, and connect with fellow travellers.
What to do
Concora Valley – A downhill MTB ride through the valley is a must. Start high up and descend through cloud forest, farmland, and winding trails. The route is thrilling, scenic, and surprisingly accessible, offering a unique perspective on the region’s landscapes.
Coffee Finca Visits – In town, visit a local coffee finca to see how your morning brew goes from bean to cup. Many farms also offer tastings, making it a practical and delicious way to learn about Colombian coffee.
Spanish Courses – If you’re staying a while, join a short Spanish course to practice the language and get more out of your interactions with locals.
Nature
Tayrona National Park: jungle trails, wild beaches, and the joy of being unreachable
East of Cartagena lies Tayrona, a national park where dense forest meets the Caribbean Sea. Getting there means some effort, but hiking through the jungle canopy toward beaches like Cabo San Juan makes it worth every step.
Stay at Eco Hostal Yuluka
Base yourself at Eco Hostal Yuluka, tucked just outside the park. The hostel offers a relaxed, eco-friendly atmosphere with cozy dorms and private rooms. With a friendly, welcoming vibe and plenty of outdoor spaces to lounge or socialize, Eco Hostal Yuluka is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
