Itineraries Cartagena and Caribbean Coast

Practical information about Colombia, Travel Guide Cartagena

Itineraries Cartagena & Caribbean Coast

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Here are the best travel itineraries in Cartagena and the Caribbean coast.

On Colombia’s northern coast, there are beautiful trips to take along the better-known tourist attractions or completely off the beaten track. Cartagena, Santa Marta and Riohacha are important hubs on the Caribbean coast. Thus, you can visit Cartagena Cartagena as a starting point for a trip to a.o. Barranquilla and San Andrés. Santa Marta is a convenient starting point for a trip to such places as. Tayrona National Park , Ciudad Perdida and Minca. Riohacha is a convenient hub for a trip to La Guajira.

Tip: Want to save travel time? Then start your trip in Cartagena, end in St Marta and catch the plane there, or vice versa.

Indicative travel times
Cartagena-St Marta 4-5h
Cartagena-Barranquilla 2-2.5u
St Marta starting point Ciudad Perdida trek 2.5h
St Marta-Tayrona 1u
St Marta-Minca 45 min
St Marta-Palomino 2u
Palomino-Riohacha 1.5u
Tayrona-Palomino 1h
Tayrona-Costeño Beach (near Guachaca) 15 min

Check here the best travel itineraries in Cartagena and the Caribbean coast, for 1, 2 and 3 weeks. Check here information and tips about the round trip we made from 2 weeks from Barranquilla to Santa Marta.

Itineraries

1 Week: from Cartagena to Santa Marta

Day 1-2: Cartagena
Day 3: Bus to St Marta-Tayrona National Park Overnight stay outside the park
Day 4: Overnight stay in Tayrona NP
Day 5: Bus to St Marta/Minca
Day 6-7: Minca
Day 8: Bus to St Marta

1 Week: Cartagena off the beaten track

Day 1: Arrival Cartagena
Day 2: Tour to local market Marcado Bazurto
Day 3: Tour to the Afro-Colombian community
San Basilio de Palenque
Day 4: Bus to Barranquilla
Day 5-6: Barranquilla
Day 7: Bus to Cartagena

1 Week: colonial cities from Cartagena

Day 1-3: Cartagena
Day 4: Bus to Mompox
Day 5-6: Mompox
Day 7: Bus to Cartagena

2 Weeks: Cartagena – Tayrona – la Guajira -St Marta

Day 1-2: Cartagena
Day 3-4: Isla Múcura*
Day 5: Bus to St Marta–Tayrona NP, overnight outside the park
Day 6: Overnight stay in Tayrona NP
Day 7: Bus to Palomino
Day 8: Palomino
Day 9-11: Tour to Cabo de la Vela-Punta Gallinas in la Guajira
Day 12: Return trip to Riohacha. Overnight in Riohacha
Day 13-14: Minca
Day 15: Bus to St Marta

* Alternative to Isla Múcura, is Casa en el Agua

#ColombiaMyWay tip

2 Weeks: Cartagena -Tayrona – Ciudad Perdida – St Marta

Day 1-2: Cartagena
Day 3-4: Isla Múcura*
Day 5: Bus to St Marta–Tayrona NP, overnight outside the park
Day 6: Overnight stay in Tayrona NP
Day 7: Bus to Costeño Beach.
Day 8: Costeño Beach
Day 9-12: Ciudad Perdida
Day 13: Bus to Minca
Day 14: Minca
Day 15: Bus to St Marta

* Alternative to Isla Múcura, is Casa en el Agua

#ColombiaMyWay tip

3 Weeks: from Cartagena to St Marta with islands and la Guajira

Day 1-2: Cartagena
Day 3: Flight to San Andrés
Days 4-6: San Andrés and/or Providencia*
Day 7: Flight to Cartagena. Bus to St Marta. Overnight stay in St Marta
Day 8-11: Ciudad Perdida
Day 12: Bus to St Marta-Tayrona NP. Overnight stay outside the park
Day 13: Overnight in Tayrona NP
Day 14: Bus to St Marta-Minca
Day 15: Minca
Day 16: Bus to St Marta-Riohacha. Overnight in Riohacha
Day 17-19: Trip to Cabo de la Vela-Punta Gallinas in la Guajira
Day 20: Bus to Riohacha-Palomino
Day 21: Palomino
Day 22: Bus to St Marta

Want to extend your trip with an additional beach destination? Then book a few nights at a hotel in Santa Marta at the end of your trip.

#ColombiaMyWay tip

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Shopping in Cali, Colombia

Travel Guide Cali

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Shopping in Cali, Colombia

Cali does not have the number of shopping malls you find in cities like Bogotá and Medellín, but you can still do some good shopping in Cali. There are shopping malls for every taste and budget. Read our tips for shopping in Cali here.

6 shopping tips + bonus tip

CHIPICHAPE

Chipichape is a huge mall in northern Cali with over 400 stores and also an Exito, cinema, casino and several fast food restaurants.There is an open area with several cafes, restaurants and play areas for the kids. This shopping mall also organizes cultural activities regularly. Want a special shopping experience? Book a night at the luxury Hotel Spiwak Chipichape, right next to the mall. After a day of shopping, you can relax in the pool and spa.

JARDÍN PLAZA

Jardín Plaza, with all its branded shops, is an upscale shopping mall in Ciudad Jardin, in southern Cali. Besides the many stores, you will also find a movie theater and some great restaurants, such as the Italian restaurant La Trattorina, several grill restaurants, Crepes & Waffles and fast food restaurants.

CENTRO COMERCIAL CENTENARIO

Centro Comercial Centenario is a smaller mall in the Centenario neighborhood, which borders Barrio Granada. The location of this mall is a lot more central than most other malls. There are 135 stores, a movie theater, a supermarket and a food court with mostly fast food options.

UNICENTRO CALI

Unicentro Cali, a large shopping center in the Las Vegas area.Here you will find a movie theater, a large Exito Wow hypermarket a Happy City section for the kids, among other things.

CENTRO COMERCIAL UNICO

Centro Comercial Unico is an outlet center, where you can buy branded clothes at cheap prices. There is also a spacious food court. There are two outlet centers, on both sides of the road. Address Cl. 52 #3-173 a 3, Cra. 3.

PACIFIC MALL

Pacific Mall, a shopping center in Santa Monica that includes a movie theater, a trampoline park and a large Falabela.

At Palmetto Plaza, you can shop in a large Exito, furthermore there is a cinema and food court with many options, among others.

Colombia My Way Bonus Tip

Shop delicious fresh fruits, vegetables and snacks at the Alameda market (la Galeria Alameda). It is a colorful sight, all those beautiful products. The market is definitely worth a visit if you want to see some couleur locale during your trip. Extra fun (and safe) is if you go to the market with a guide and learn all the ins and outs about this colorful market. With most street food tours, you also go to the market. Alameda market is about a 20-minute walk from San Antonio.

Check this article for the nicest hotels and best neighborhoods to stay in Cali.

Frequently asked questions about Cali, Colombia

Travel Guide Cali

Frequently asked questions about Cali, Colombia

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Cali. Is Cali safe? What is the weather like? What is the best time to travel? Is Cali expensive and how many days will it take you to see everything? If you don’t find your question among the frequently asked questions, feel free to get in touch or check one of the other articles in our Cali travel guide. 

ColombiaMyWay

Frequently asked questions about Cali

Is Cali safe?

Cali has a reputation for being one of Colombia’s more dangerous cities, but crime has gone down in recent years. Still, it is important to be careful. Leave your gold jewelry at home and take as few valuables as possible. If you take a taxi, have the hotel call one for you or use taxi apps and never stop a taxi on the street. Later in the evening, be careful in the San Antonio area. Don’t go into the poor neighborhoods. The city center is good to visit during the day but not after sunset. Also watch out on Sundays, when it is a lot quieter downtown. At night, avoid the area east of Calle 5 and along the Rio Cali. Avoid the dangerous neighborhoods of Aguablanca, Siloé, Los Chorros and Terron Colorado. Keep a close eye on motorcycles, as thieves often steal from motorcycles.

Update August 23, 2025
Presidential elections are scheduled in Colombia for May 2026. As a result, the risk of unrest or attacks is increasing throughout the country. Especially the southwest of Colombia (around Cali, Popayan and Pasto) is experiencing unrest at the moment. For example, there was an attack on a military base outside Cali. Although tourists are not the target of attacks, there is still a risk of collateral damage.

Therefore, follow the advice below:

  • Always listen to the advice of local authorities and remain alert throughout Colombia.
  • Be extra cautious near police stations and military buildings.
  • Avoid demonstrations and places where large numbers of people gather.
What is the weather like in Cali?

Cali is located in a valley. It is hot during the day (around 32 degrees) and the sun is bright. From about 5 o’clock on, a refreshing breeze picks up and cools. The temperature is about the same during the year. The average maximum temperature over the year is 33 degrees and the average minimum temperature is 23 degrees. . Funny enough, you see few people wearing sunglasses while our eyes squeeze shut because of the bright sun. A tourist is quickly recognized for wearing sunglasses. December through March have the least rainfall, April and May are the wettest months. An air-conditioned hotel room is definitely recommended!

 

 

 

What is the best time to go to Cali?

Cali can be visited throughout the year. December and January are the best months to visit the city, because of the many festivities surrounding Christmas and New Year, such as the Feria de Cali. In December there is also the annual light show surrounding Christmas. Many parks are illuminated with lights in the shape of animals and plants. These are also the busiest (and most expensive) times of the year. Semana Santa (Easter week) and the month of July are also busy in Cali. Also a date to put in your calendar: The Festival Mundial de la Salsa. The Festival Mundial de Salsa de Cali is scheduled to take place from September 25 to September 28, 2025. 

 

 

 

 

Is Cali expensive?

Cali is still relatively unknown to many tourists which also makes it not that expensive to stay in the city. Prices in the shopping malls are almost up to European level, though. However, in the neighborhoods and in restaurants along the road, prices are much lower. There, the price is often 50% cheaper than in the malls. Expenses for food and drink are a lot cheaper in Cali than, for example, in Cartagena or Medellín. Going to the hairdresser is nice for COP28,000/$7. Foot and hand care / pedicure cost a fraction of North America and Northern Europe.

How many days do you need in Cali?

There is a lot to see in and around Cali. To see the most beautiful places of Cali and its surroundings, you will need three days. If you want to explore the surroundings of Cali by car, you can easily set spend 5 days.

3 days:
In 3 days you have enough time to visit the most famous sights and museums in the historic center and to make trips in the area. You can start with a tour through San Antonio, then you immediately have a nice introduction to the city center. You can also visit San Antonio Park. In the afternoon you can take a taxi to Cristo Rey. You will have a beautiful view of the city. On day 2 you can visit the Ciudad Jardin district in the morning and experience the big difference between rich and poor. In the afternoon you can take a taxi to Alto Pance to experience the real Colombian life and swim in the river. On day 3 you can go to KM 18. The neighborhood is so big and beautiful that you can certainly spend a whole day driving through the mountains and stopping at a roadside restaurant to taste authentic Colombian food.

5 days:
With two extra days you can rent a car and go to the villages around Cali. On day 4 you can go to Lago Calima and Buga (beautiful churches and old buildings). On the last day you can go to colorful Salento and the Montenegro amusement park. All beautiful locations surrounded with lots of mountains, coffee plantations and green nature. Definitely worth seeing! )

 

 

 

 

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Where to stay in Cali, Colombia?

Travel Guide Cali

Where to stay in Cali, Colombia?

The best neighborhoods + tips

Where to stay in Cali, Colombia? In this article we show you the best districts, regarding location and safety + tips about hotels in Cali. The “salsa capital of the world” is as touristy as Medellín or Cartagena and as a result, lodging is also a lot cheaper than in those cities. In Cali you will find accommodations ranging from a simple hostel to extravagant hotel with all the services.

There are over 200 barrios and the hotels and hostels are scattered in a number of safe neighborhoods. The difference between the rich and poor neighborhoods is huge. Partly because of this, it is important to orient yourself well when booking a hotel.

Read on to learn more about where to stay in Cali, Colombia.

San Antonio

The colonial district San Antonio is the most popular neighborhood with travelers. San Antonio is Cali’s oldest neighborhood, with colonial architecture, narrow streets and parks. There is a cozy local, “artsy” vibe and you will find beautiful murals. Central to the district is the Iglesia de San Antonio, surrounded by a park with panoramic views of the city. There is a great choice of hotels and hostels for every budget, and plenty of options for a bite to eat at the many restaurants and cozy cafes. One of the most popular salsa clubs – La Topa Tolondra-is within walking distance of most hostels in San Antonio.

    Barrio Granada

    Barrio Granada is a centrally located neighborhood with many good restaurants and bars, stylish clothing stores and boutique hotels, this is also called the Zona Rosa of Cali. Here you will find a number of chic nightclubs and gay bars. Barrio Granada is one of the richest neighborhoods in the city.

    Centenario

    Centenario is located southwest of Granada and here is the place to go if you are looking for a hotel in a quiet -but still centrally located- residential area, e.g. at hotel Casa del Hidalgo. Centenario attracts many expats and digital nomads, due to its quieter location within walking distance of El Peñon and Granada. Centenario is also home to the Centenario shopping center and one of the city’s most iconic spots; Plazoleta de la Caleñidad, a tribute to the culture of Cali.

      El Peñon

      El Peñon is located west of the city center and southwest of the Cali River. Every evening there is an atmospheric performance by -each alternate- singers in the small park in el Peñon. This old park is a favorite with locals. There are many good restaurants and many street food stalls. El Peñon is home to many extra security personnel, which adds to the sense of security in this neighborhood.

      San Fernando

      San Fernando is a neighborhood very popular with students. The biggest attraction in San Fernando is the Parque del Perro, which is surrounded by local bars and restaurants.

        Ciudad Jardín

        Ciudad Jardín is one of the most upscale neighborhoods in the south of the city and an option if you’re looking for peace and quiet. You’ll find plenty of nature here, with parks, country clubs and some good hotels, but you’re further away from downtown, so not the best place for sightseeing.

        Even if you want to escape the heat for a while during your stay, there are plenty of options for a nice place to stay outside the city, e.g. in the village Pance, or around KM18.

        ColombiaMyWay

        Tips for booking your hotel or hostel

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        The Tayrona National Park

        Travel Guide-Tayrona-National-Park

        The Tayrona National Park

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        Where the jungle ends on the beach

        Hiking through the jungle to spectacular beaches, wildlife spotting…The location of Tayrona National Park is spectacular, between the Caribbean Sea and the highest coastal mountain range in the world, the Sierra Nevada de St. Marta. Not surprisingly, it is one of the most popular national parks in Colombia. Add to that its location 35 km from Santa Marta and 240 km from Cartagena, and you have a fine stopover to grab while traveling along the North Coast. Many travelers combine a visit to Tayrona National Park with Minca, Ciudad Perdida and La Guajira.

        Influence of the Indian community
        Long ago, the Tairona Indians lived in PNN Tayrona and today their descendants, the Kogui, live in the Sierra Nevada. They have preserved their culture and traditions and -together with other indigenous groups- are closely involved in PNN Tayrona. About 3 times a year Tayrona NP is closed so that the indigenous groups can perform spiritual rituals and the ecosystem can recover.

        Find information on current closing dates and other tips here.

         

        #ToColombia tips

        #1 Visiting Tayrona, this is how it works!
         (updated February 2023)

        1. Pay COP5000 for the mandatory insurance
          After this, you get an orange band on
        2. Go to the box office to pay the entrance fee.
          COP 54,500 low season- COP 64,500 high season. At the end of April 2022, we paid COP 57500. Payment by debit card is possible
        3. Show a copy of your passport + Covid-19 vaccination certificate
          The rules are changing rapidly, but at this time a vaccination certificate is still required for Tayrona NP. A yellow fever vaccination is recommended but not required.
        4. A van can take you to the start of the hike for COP5000.
          These go every few minutes. The start of the hiking trail is 5km further up so highly recommended. The same goes for being taken back to the exit.

        #2 Avoid the queues and arrive early
        The park opens at 7:00am. If you come after 12:00am, you may not be let in due to the maximum number of visitors allowed per day. On holidays and weekends it can be very busy, so if you are flexible, plan your visit during the week.

        #3 Bring plenty of cash
        We entered the park at El Zaino, the main entrance. If you enter the park at the Calabazo entrance, you can only pay in cash. Also inside the park itself, you can’t take debit cards and it’s cash only.

        #4 Keep in mind the closure dates
        3x a year Tayrona NP is closed so that the indigenous groups can perform spiritual rituals and the ecosystem can recover.

        The closing dates in 2023 are:

        • Feb. 1-15
        • June 1-15
        • October 19-November 2

        Check the website of Tayrona National Park for updates.

        #5 You can’t swim everywhere
        Due to strong currents, not all beaches are suitable for swimming. Tayrona’s most popular beach is Playa Cabo San Juan and you can also swim at Playa La Piscina. Always keep a close eye on the warning signs and flags at the beaches.

        #6 ToColombia hotel tip
        After an active day in Tayrona, want to relax in a beautiful lodge near the park? Then check out Senda Koguiwa lodge This lodge is a 10-minute walk from the park’s main entrance. Also at Kantawa Eco Spa hotel is a great place to relax after a day of hiking in Tayrona National Park. The hotel features an outdoor pool, spa and wellness center with a steam room, hot tub and Turkish bath.

        Check out more hotels and hostels in and around Tayrona. and in Santa Marta. Check out here if you want to go to Tayrona National Park with a guide.

        Read here the comprehensive travel guide to Tayrona National Park

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