Colombia Family Travel Itinerary: The Ultimate 2-Week Adventure
Trip Overview
- Duration: 14 Days
- Best Travel Season: Dry Season (December – March, July – August) – Best weather for exploring cities, beaches, and nature
- Ideal For: Families who love culture, adventure, and diverse landscapes
- Family-Friendliness: Excellent – Kid-friendly cities, stunning national parks, and beautiful beaches
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1-3: Bogotá – Exploring the Capital
Stay: La Candelaria (historic district) or Zona Rosa (more modern, family-friendly area)
Getting There: Fly into El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
✅ Highlights:
- Explore La Candelaria – Walk through Bogotá’s colorful, historic center
- Ride the cable car up to Monserrate for epic city views
- Visit the Gold Museum – Kid-friendly and filled with fascinating history
- Check out Usaquén Flea Market (Sundays) – Street performers, great food, and local crafts
- Take a day trip to Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral – A breathtaking underground church
Family Tip: Bogotá is at high altitude (2,640m), so take it easy on arrival and stay hydrated!
Day 4-6: Medellín – The City of Eternal Spring
Stay: El Poblado – The safest, most family-friendly neighborhood
Getting There: 1-hour flight from Bogotá or 8-hour bus ride
✅ Highlights:
- Take the Metrocable to Parque Arví – A scenic ride into nature
- Visit the Comuna 13 street art tour – A vibrant, safe neighborhood with an inspiring history
- Explore Plaza Botero – Famous sculptures by Fernando Botero
- Spend an afternoon at Explora Park – An interactive science museum great for kids
- Day trip to Guatapé & El Peñol Rock – Climb the 740 steps for unreal panoramic views
Family Tip: Medellín has a perfect year-round climate, but always bring a light rain jacket!
Day 7-10: Cartagena – Colonial Charm & Caribbean Vibes
Stay: Getsemaní (trendy & cultural) or Bocagrande (beachfront area)
Getting There: 1-hour flight from Medellín
✅ Highlights:
- Wander the Walled City – Colorful streets, historic forts, and vibrant culture
- Walk along Castillo San Felipe – A fun fortress to explore with great views
- Take a boat trip to Islas del Rosario – Crystal-clear Caribbean waters, perfect for snorkeling
- Visit Playa Blanca – One of Colombia’s best beaches
- Stroll through Bazurto Market – An authentic local experience (go with a guide)
Family Tip: Cartagena is hot and humid – pack lightweight clothing and stay hydrated!
Day 11-12: Tayrona National Park – Beaches & Jungle Adventures
Stay: Eco-lodges or beach cabins near the park entrance
Getting There: 4-hour drive from Cartagena or a short flight to Santa Marta
✅ Highlights:
- Hike through Tayrona National Park – Stunning coastal and jungle landscapes
- Relax at Cabo San Juan – The park’s most famous beach
- Visit El Pueblito – Ancient indigenous ruins hidden in the jungle
- Spot monkeys, toucans, and other wildlife while hiking
Family Tip: The hikes can be long, so start early and bring snacks!
Day 13-14: Santa Marta & Minca – Relaxing Finish
Stay: Beachfront hotel in Santa Marta or eco-lodge in Minca
Getting There: 1-hour drive from Tayrona National Park
✅ Highlights:
- Chill at Santa Marta’s beaches – Less touristy than Cartagena’s
- Explore Minca – A small mountain town with waterfalls and coffee farms
- Take a coffee tour – Learn about Colombia’s world-famous coffee
- Swim at Pozo Azul – A refreshing natural swimming hole
Family Tip: Minca is cooler than the coast, so pack a light sweater!
Accommodation & Transport Tips
- Best Family Hotels & Airbnbs: Colonial-style hotels in Cartagena, modern apartments in Medellín, eco-lodges in Tayrona & Minca
- Getting Around: Domestic flights are the easiest way to travel between cities; buses are an affordable option but take longer
- Best Budget Tip: Book accommodation in advance for the best deals, especially in high season
Estimated Budget Breakdown
- Accommodation: $30–$150 per night (budget to mid-range hotels)
- Food: $5–$20 per meal (local restaurants are affordable)
- Transport: Domestic flights $50–$100, buses $10–$30 per route
- Activities: National park entrance fees $5–$20, boat trips $30–$50
How to Pack for Colombia’s Dry Season
✅ Lightweight clothing – Hot & humid on the coast, cooler in the mountains
✅ Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for city exploration & hikes
✅ Swimwear & rash guards – For beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs
✅ Sun protection – Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
✅ Bug spray – Mosquitoes can be a problem in jungle areas
Read our full guide: Colombia Packing Guide
Final Thoughts
Colombia is a diverse and exciting destination that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, adventure, and beach relaxation. Whether you’re wandering the colorful streets of Cartagena, hiking in Tayrona, or taking in Medellín’s incredible transformation, this itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience for families.
Modify for toddlers: Spend extra time in Bogotá or Cartagena for a slower pace.
Modify for teens: Add adventure sports like paragliding surfing.
Shorten itinerary: Focus on Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena for a one-week trip
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