Generated with sparks and insights from 8 sources

Summary

This comprehensive guide to backpacking Colombia for a month covers the vibrant cities of Bogota and Medellin, the adventure capital San Gil, the coffee heartland Salento, and more. Experience the rich culture, thrilling outdoor activities, and breathtaking natural beauty of Colombia.

🛬 Day 1: Arrival in Bogota

Start your Colombian adventure by exploring the vibrant capital city, Bogota.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> El Dorado International Airport\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (14.2 km, \ud83d\ude98 20 min, \ud83d\ude87 1 hr 12)\n>\n> La Candelaria\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

🏙️ El Dorado International Airport

Your gateway to Colombia, El Dorado International Airport is located in the northwest corner of Bogota. It is a major international airport, offering convenient access to the city.

Tips

Consider taking a cab from the airport for convenience. The airport is located near the La Candelaria neighborhood, making it a convenient starting point for your exploration of Bogota.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +57 601 2662000
🌐   Website: http://www.eldorado.aero/
📍   Address: Av. El Dorado #103, Bogotá, Colombia
🔗   Profiles:

🌆 La Candelaria

The touristy area of Bogota, La Candelaria, is a charming neighborhood filled with colorful street art, vibrant nightlife, and an array of tourist attractions. It offers a unique blend of historical and modern experiences, making it an ideal base for your Bogota adventure.

Tips

Stay in this area for easy access to local attractions and a vibrant nightlife. La Candelaria is known for its plethora of hostel options, providing an opportunity to meet fellow travelers and immerse yourself in the backpacking culture of Colombia.

🌆 Day 2-3: Exploring Bogota

Dive deep into the culture and history of Bogota with visits to museums and historical sites.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Museo del Oro\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (14.8 km, \ud83d\ude98 21 min, \ud83d\ude87 54 min)\n>\n> Tejo\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

🏛️ Museo del Oro

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Colombia as you wander through the extensive collection of gold artifacts, offering a fascinating insight into the country's heritage.

Tips

Spend a few hours here to fully appreciate the intricate details and historical significance of the exhibits.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +57 601 3432222
🌐   Website: https://www.banrepcultural.org/bogota/museo-del-oro
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Cra. 6 #15-88, Santa Fé, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia
🔗   Profiles:

🎯 Tejo

Engage in Colombia's national game, Tejo, for a truly authentic cultural experience. Experience the thrill of throwing metal pucks and revel in the lively atmosphere of this traditional pastime.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "We learned TEJO - Playing Colombia's Explosive Sport with ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMIyJjR1N0M", "channel": { "name": "Sammy and Tommy"}, "published_date": "Oct 15, 2022", "length": "11:46" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "PLAYING TEJO WITH LOCALS in Bogota, Colombia", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPrRiroiqos", "channel": { "name": "The Round the World Guys"}, "published_date": "Jan 9, 2022", "length": "11:38" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The Most Explosive Sport In Colombia \ud83d\udca5\ud83c\udf7b | Tejo in Colombia", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOT_YXccCCw", "channel": { "name": "How To Expat"}, "published_date": "Apr 7, 2019", "length": "4:40" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Tejo, Colombia\u2019s national sport, struggles with modernity", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEskGrAxMqU", "channel": { "name": "CGTN America"}, "published_date": "Mar 13, 2015", "length": "6:47" }</div>

Tips

Join a local game for an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a unique glimpse into Colombian leisure activities.

🌄 Day 4-9: Adventure in San Gil

Head to San Gil, the adventure capital, for thrilling outdoor activities.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Paragliding Chicamocha Canyon\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (120 m, \ud83c\udfc3 2 min)\n>\n> White Water Rafting\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

🪂 Paragliding Chicamocha Canyon

Soar 6000 feet in the air for serene views and adrenaline. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chicamocha Canyon from a unique perspective, feeling the rush of wind against your face as you glide through the sky.

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Paragliding Over Chicamocha Canyon in San Gil, Colombia", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l37QgMqrmqk", "channel": { "name": "Drink Tea & Travel"}, "published_date": "Jan 31, 2017", "length": "3:03" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Paragliding High Above the Chicamocha Canyon, San Gil ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAbVr6B6Vzk", "channel": { "name": "Goats On The Road"}, "published_date": "Jan 9, 2017", "length": "4:36" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Paragliding #15 in Chicamocha Canyon, San Gil - 101 days in ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmoHo70WOrs", "channel": { "name": "101 days in Colombia"}, "published_date": "Oct 14, 2023", "length": "7:02" }</div>

Tips

Ask your guide for spins and tricks if you're seeking an adrenaline rush. Embrace the opportunity to add an extra thrill to your paragliding experience by requesting exhilarating maneuvers from your expert guide.

🌊 White Water Rafting

Choose between a relaxing trip on Rio Fonce or an intense adventure on Rio Suarez. Whether you seek a leisurely float down the tranquil Rio Fonce or a heart-pounding ride through the challenging rapids of Rio Suarez, San Gil offers white water rafting experiences tailored to different intensity levels.

Tips

Select the intensity level that suits your comfort for an unforgettable experience. Consider your preferences and comfort level when choosing between the relaxing Rio Fonce trip and the adrenaline-pumping adventure on Rio Suarez, ensuring a memorable and personalized rafting excursion.

Day 10-14: Coffee and Nature in Salento

Explore the heart of Colombia's Coffee Triangle and the stunning Valle de Cocora.

<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Valle de Cocora hike\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (14.9 km, \ud83d\ude98 38 min)\n>\n> Coffee tour at El Ocaso Finca\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>

Valle de Cocora hike

Embark on a mesmerizing six-hour hike through the lush valley of the world's tallest palm trees, the iconic wax palms. The trail leads you into a mystical cloud forest, offering breathtaking panoramic views, and finally guides you along a winding road, providing an unforgettable experience of Colombia's natural beauty.

Tips

To fully savor the tranquility and avoid the afternoon rains, it's advisable to start the hike early in the day. Don't forget to carry water and snacks for the journey.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +57 310 2275091
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Vía al Valle de Cocora, Km 11, Salento, Quindío, Colombia
🔗   Profiles:

Coffee tour at El Ocaso Finca

Immerse yourself in the world of sustainable coffee production at the picturesque El Ocaso Finca. Take a leisurely stroll from La Serrana to this charming farm, where you can learn about the intricate process of coffee cultivation and indulge in a delightful tasting session, all while surrounded by the stunning Colombian landscape.

Tips

Make the most of this educational and scenic tour by capturing the picturesque surroundings and engaging with the friendly staff to gain deeper insights into the art of coffee production.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +573134253669
🌐   Website: http://www.fincaelocasosalento.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1.5-3 hours
📍   Address: vía Salento - Desde Salento bajas por la vía al cementerio, vereda palestina km 3,8, 3,8 km, Salento, Quindío, Colombia
🔗   Profiles: