A 10-Day Luxury Adventure Through Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena
by Sandi Todorovich
Updated in March 2025
South America had long been on my travel list, but until recently, I had yet to experience its wonders. Having lived in Europe for years, my focus had been on other parts of the world. That changed when we received an invitation to a dear friend’s wedding in Colombia. Excited to visit my first South American country, I quickly realized that Colombia’s diverse regions each offer a distinct history, climate, and cultural experience. A single city visit wouldn’t suffice—this had to be a 10-day immersive adventure.
Bogotá: A Cultural Capital in the Andes
We began our journey in Bogotá, Colombia’s vibrant capital, which sits at an altitude of over 8,500 feet in the Eastern Andes. Despite its equatorial location, Bogotá enjoys mild temperatures year-round, averaging 60–64°F—ideal for exploring its rich cultural scene.
The city’s hotel districts are concentrated in the north, with areas like Zona G, Zona Rosa, Park 93, and Usaquén offering a mix of boutique and luxury accommodations. We chose Usaquén, a charming colonial neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, lively Sunday market, and an array of high-end restaurants and bars.
Our days in Bogotá were filled with exploring iconic sites such as:
The Gold Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
Monserrate, where a scenic cable car ride rewarded us with sweeping views of the city.
Zona G & Park 93, where we were surprised by the city’s upscale international dining scene.
After three nights, we took a quick 50-minute Avianca flight to our next destination: Medellín.
Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring
Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," Medellín enjoys year-round temperatures averaging 81°F. It’s hard to believe that this dynamic metropolis was once infamous as one of the world’s most dangerous cities. Today, thanks to forward-thinking leadership and urban innovation, Medellín has emerged as one of the most livable and innovative cities in the world.
One of the most transformative initiatives was the cable car system, which connected the city’s hillside communities with economic opportunities in the valley below. In 2013, Medellín was named "Most Innovative City in the World", a testament to its remarkable evolution.
With two nights in Medellín, we dedicated:
One day to exploring the city, learning about its transformation and visiting Comuna 13, a neighborhood once plagued by violence but now a hub of art, music, and cultural expression.
Another day for an excursion to La Piedra Del Peñol and Guatapé, about two hours from the city.
At La Piedra, we climbed 649 steps to the summit, where breathtaking panoramic views of turquoise lakes and green islands made every step worth it. Afterward, we wandered through Guatapé, one of Colombia’s most colorful towns, known for its zócalos—intricately painted murals adorning the lower walls of its buildings. The contrast between Medellín’s cosmopolitan vibe and Guatapé’s small-town charm was striking.
Cartagena: A Caribbean Escape
On Day 6, we boarded a short flight to Cartagena, a stunning coastal city that would be our home for the next five days. Unlike Bogotá and Medellín, Cartagena’s tropical climate brings temperatures around 90°F and high humidity year-round.
Cartagena is divided into four main districts:
Downtown – The historic core, home to plazas, churches, and vibrant colonial architecture.
San Diego – A quieter area within the walled city, where we stayed.
Getsemaní – Once a bohemian quarter, now an art-filled, trendy neighborhood.
Bocagrande – A modern district with high-rise hotels and beachfront resorts.
We split our stay between two exceptional hotels:
Sofitel Santa Clara – A grand luxury hotel with multiple dining options and a massive pool, a necessity in Cartagena’s heat.
Casa San Agustin – A boutique retreat exuding colonial charm, with a courtyard pool built into an ancient aqueduct.
Each property offered a unique experience, catering to different travel styles.
What made Cartagena unforgettable?
Exploring the walled city – A photographer’s dream, with colorful streets, historic balconies, and lively squares.
Walking the city walls at sunset – Offering stunning ocean views as the sky turned golden.
A private boat trip to the Rosario Islands – A must-do experience for pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The exceptional dining scene – From authentic Colombian cuisine to Michelin-star-worthy restaurants, Cartagena is a food lover’s paradise.
A Perfect Introduction to South America
Our first journey to South America was an overwhelming success—a seamless blend of urban sophistication, cultural immersion, and tropical relaxation. Colombia exceeded every expectation, leaving us eager to return and explore even more of this vibrant continent.
Where will our next South American adventure take us? Stay tuned.