Colombia Road Trip Itinerary
The Colombia Road Trip is an 18-day journey that takes you through some of the country’s most beautiful and historical sites. Starting from Bogota, the trip takes you through Neiva, Popayán, Cali, Montería, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, and Soatá, covering a distance of 4558 km.
The best time to take this journey is during the dry season, which usually runs from December to April. During this time, you will be treated to stunning landscapes, as well as a chance to visit some of Colombia’s most famous UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The roads are generally in good condition, though some parts may be curvy or narrow, so it is important to be prepared and drive carefully.
This road trip is suitable for all kinds of drivers, and can be done on a fair budget. From the colonial architecture of Cartagena to the lush greenery of Bucaramanga, the Colombia Road Trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
18
number of days
4,176 km
route length
moderate
budget
adventurer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
high
accident level
START
Bogota
Distance 4,176 km
Driving time 105.9 h
Pace: slow
960.4 kWh
Airports
BOG
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Bogota, the vibrant capital of Colombia, is the perfect starting point for the Colombia Road Trip. Located in the Andean mountains at an altitude of 2640 meters, Bogota has much to offer to its visitors.
The historic center of La Candelaria is a must-see for all visitors, with its colonial-style buildings, churches, and museums. The Museo del Oro, or Gold Museum, contains an impressive collection of gold artifacts from the pre-Hispanic cultures. For those looking to experience the city's vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport to Bogota is El Dorado International Airport (IATA: BOG). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.
Once you have explored the city, take a drive out to the countryside and experience the beauty of Colombia. The nearby towns of Zipaquira, La Calera, and Guatavita are all worth visiting, as is the breathtaking landscape of the Boyaca region.
No matter what your interests may be, Bogota is the ideal starting point for the Colombia Road Trip.
1
Bogota
- Neiva
Distance 312 km
Driving time 6.6 h
Pace: modest
81.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Bogotá to Neiva! This 314 km route will take you less than 6 hours to complete and is part of a larger tour through Colombia. As you drive, take in the breathtaking scenery of the Colombian countryside and make sure to take some stops to explore the historical sites and cultural attractions along the way.
Start your journey in Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, and visit its many attractions such as the Gold Museum, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, and the Monserrate Hill. From there, drive to the city of Chiquinquirá and explore its colonial architecture and churches.
Continue your journey to the town of Villavieja, where you can visit the mysterious White Monoliths, a set of ancient stone sculptures that are believed to have been created by the Muisca people. After that, you'll arrive in Neiva, the capital of Huila. Here you can explore the San Pedro de los Milagros archaeological site and the nearby Magdalena River.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Neiva - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Neiva
- Popayán
Distance 273 km
Driving time 8.3 h
Pace: slow
62.8 kWh
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Take a memorable road trip from Neiva to Popayán! This 601km journey will take you fewer than 12 hours. On your way, you will pass through some of the most beautiful and historical places in Colombia. Start your journey in Neiva, where you can visit the archaeological site of El Paraíso and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. Then, you can drive to San Agustín, where you can admire the famous statues of the archaeological park. As you continue your journey, you will pass through Villavieja, where you can visit the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Church of Our Lady of Carmen. Further along, you will reach the picturesque town of Huila, where you can admire the colonial architecture. The road is winding in some sections, so be sure to pay attention to the road. Finally, you will arrive in Popayán, a beautiful colonial city with a rich history. Here, you can visit the Cathedral of Popayán, the Church of San Francisco, and the Museum of Colonial Art. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Popayán - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Popayán
- Cali
Distance 152 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: slow
35.1 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Popayán to Cali! This 138 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete. As you drive, you will be treated to beautiful views of the Colombian countryside. Along the way, you will pass through several small towns and villages, and you will be able to take in the unique culture and atmosphere of this region. In Popayán, be sure to visit the historic Catedral de Popayán and the Iglesia de San Francisco. In Cali, you can explore the Cali Zoo, the Cali Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Cali Tower. As you drive, be sure to watch out for the winding roads in some sections. With so much to explore, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage.
Cali - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
Cali - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Cali
- Medellín
Distance 443 km
Driving time 8.9 h
Pace: modest
115.3 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Cali to Medellín, Colombia! This 427 km journey takes less than 10 hours to complete and offers a plethora of interesting sights and experiences along the way. As you drive, be sure to pay attention to the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. In some sections, the road is very winding, so be sure to drive with caution. As you travel, you will find plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Cali Zoo, the Botanical Garden of Medellín, and the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe. You will also find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable journey from Cali to Medellín!
Medellín - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Medellín - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Medellín
- Montería
Distance 606 km
Driving time 16.1 h
Pace: slow
139.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from Medellín to Montería? This journey of 417 km will take you less than 9 hours, and will be full of breathtaking scenery. As you drive, you'll be winding through some of Colombia's most stunning landscapes, so be sure to keep your eyes open for the best views. In Medellín, be sure to visit the Museum of Antioquia, where you can explore the city's rich history. In Montería, explore the Caiman Ecological Refuge, where you can observe the diverse wildlife of the region. Along the way, take some time to enjoy the local cuisine and find the perfect place to camp for the night. No matter what you decide to do, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Montería - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Montería
- Cartagena
Distance 248 km
Driving time 4.8 h
Pace: modest
64.5 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Montería to Cartagena! This 244 km journey is sure to be filled with stunning views, historical sites, and plenty of activities. With fewer than 6 hours of driving, you'll be able to take in all the sights along the way.
Start your trip in Montería, where you can explore the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary and the nearby Plaza de Bolívar. Then, take a drive to San Jacinto and visit the San Jacinto Plaza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you move further along the route, you'll come across the breathtaking views of the Magdalena River.
Continue your journey through Aracataca and visit the famous House of Gabriel García Márquez, the Nobel Prize-winning author. After that, make a stop in Ciénaga, where you can explore the remains of the old San Pascual de Ciénaga Fort.
Finally, make your way to Cartagena, the beautiful colonial city. Here, you can take a stroll around the Old Town and visit the San Pedro Claver Church and the Palace of the Inquisition.
On your journey, don't forget to take in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cartagena - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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7
Cartagena
- Barranquilla
Distance 119 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
31.0 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Cartagena to Barranquilla, a 129 km journey that will take you less than 3 hours. Enjoy the beautiful Caribbean coast, admire the historical sites, and take in the picturesque views as you drive along the coast.
Start your journey in Cartagena, the beautiful colonial city, and visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the largest fortress in South America. Take a stroll in the old town and enjoy the colorful streets and the vibrant atmosphere.
Continue your trip to Barranquilla and visit the Museo del Caribe, the largest museum of its kind in Colombia. Admire the historical artifacts and explore the city’s unique culture.
On the way, stop at Santa Marta and enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Take a break and relax on the beach or explore the nearby Tayrona National Park.
Finally, end your journey in Barranquilla, the city known for its vibrant nightlife, lively festivals, and unique architecture. Visit the Mercado de Bazurto and soak in the lively atmosphere of the city.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip, and more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Barranquilla - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
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8
Barranquilla
- Riohacha
Distance 270 km
Driving time 4.9 h
Pace: modest
70.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start in Barranquilla, Colombia and make your way to Riohacha, just a 271 km drive away. You’ll be able to take in the sights of the lush landscapes, historical sites, and picturesque views. Along the way, you’ll pass through the towns of Santa Marta, El Rodadero, and Palomino. Santa Marta is one of the oldest cities in Colombia and is home to many colonial-era buildings. El Rodadero is the perfect spot for a beach day, and Palomino is a great place to explore the jungle and take in the scenery. The whole journey will take you less than 5 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to take in all the sights. While on the road, be sure to keep an eye out for interesting attractions and activities. You’ll find plenty of options for accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, and recommended restaurants and campsites, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Riohacha - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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9
Riohacha
- Aguachica
Distance 484 km
Driving time 11.0 h
Pace: modest
125.8 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Get ready to explore the beautiful Colombian countryside from Riohacha to Aguachica! This 517 km journey will take you less than 11 hours of driving and will show you the best of nature, culture and history in these two cities.
The journey from Riohacha to Aguachica will take you through some of the most scenic roads in Colombia. Keep your eyes open for the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, the beautiful beaches of Cabo de la Vela and the unique wildlife of the La Guajira desert.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit along the way. In Riohacha, you can explore the colonial architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Plaza Bolivar. In Cabo de la Vela, you can enjoy the views of the Caribbean Sea and visit the famous Wayuu indigenous village. Finally, in Aguachica, you can visit the Mirador de los Andes viewpoint and the La Paz waterfall.
To get the most out of your journey, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Aguachica - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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10
Aguachica
- Bucaramanga
Distance 169 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
43.8 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Aguachica to Bucaramanga! This 170 km journey will take you less than four hours to complete, so you can make the most of your time on the road. Get ready to explore the winding roads and discover the historical sites that make this part of Colombia so unique. Along the way, make sure to stop at the famous Laguna de la Cocha, a stunning lake that offers an incredible view of the surrounding mountains. Then, take a break at the city of San Alberto, where you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes. Finally, end your journey in Bucaramanga, a vibrant city filled with great shopping, dining, and nightlife. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Bucaramanga - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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11
Bucaramanga
- Soatá
Distance 217 km
Driving time 7.0 h
Pace: slow
50.0 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Bucaramanga to Soatá? This 219 km journey will take you less than 7 hours and you'll get to experience the stunning scenery of the Colombian countryside. Along the way, you'll drive through winding roads and narrow sections, so please drive carefully. You'll also have the chance to visit some of the most interesting places in these two cities.
In Bucaramanga, don't miss the historic El Santuario de La Candelaria, the beautiful Parque de La Flora, and the iconic La Estatua de Los Fundadores. In Soatá, you'll find the historic Iglesia de San Antonio de Padua and the beautiful Parque Natural La Chorrera.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Now, get ready to enjoy a wonderful road trip from Bucaramanga to Soatá!
Soatá - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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12
Soatá
- Hato Corozal
Distance 361 km
Driving time 16.4 h
Pace: slow
83.0 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure starting in Soatá, Colombia and ending in Hato Corozal. This 591 km journey will take you fewer than 20 hours to complete, so it is perfect for a weekend getaway. Along the way, you will be able to take in the stunning views of the Colombian countryside. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the winding roads and narrow sections. As you continue on your journey, you will pass through some of the most interesting places Colombia has to offer. Be sure to make stops in San Luis de Gaceno, El Cocuy, and Santa Rosa de Viterbo. In each of these places, you will find unique attractions, from historical sites to local cuisine. Additionally, you will find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip experience!
Hato Corozal - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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13
Hato Corozal
- Yopal
Distance 134 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
34.9 kWh
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Start your road trip in Hato Corozal, Colombia and take a 134 km journey to Yopal. It's a beautiful drive that will take you less than 3 hours. Along the way, you'll get to experience the winding roads and narrow sections of the road. Be sure to take in the scenery of the Colombian countryside, and you might even find some hidden gems along the way.
When you reach Yopal, you can explore the city's many attractions, from the colonial architecture of the old town to the modern shopping malls. There's also the Yopal Nature Reserve, where you can get up close and personal with the local wildlife. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the nearby Cerro de la Cruz offers some great hiking trails.
At the end of your journey, you'll have experienced some of the best of Colombian culture and nature. For more information on attractions and accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Yopal - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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14
Yopal
- Bogota
Distance 386 km
Driving time 8.9 h
Pace: modest
100.3 kWh
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Start your road trip in Yopal, Colombia, and take the highway to Bogota, a 386km journey that will take you fewer than 12 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most interesting places in Colombia, including the colonial city of Tunja, the archaeological site of Sogamoso, and the beautiful town of Duitama. As you travel, keep an eye out for historical sites like the ruins of San Agustin and the colonial city of Villa de Leyva. The road is very winding in some sections, so be sure to drive carefully. In other sections, the road is narrow, so be sure to take it slow. As you make your way to Bogota, you'll be able to take in all the beauty of Colombia's countryside. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bogota - Colombia - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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Bogota
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Bogota, Colombia is the perfect ending point for the Colombia Road Trip. Home to over 8 million people, this lively city is full of culture, amazing architecture, and exciting nightlife.
For travelers looking to experience the best of Bogota, there are plenty of must-see sights. Start with a visit to the iconic Cerro de Monserrate, the mountain that towers over the city, or take a tour of the historic La Candelaria district, home to some of the most beautiful colonial-style architecture and vibrant street life.
For night owls, the Zona Rosa is the place to be, with its lively bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. If you're looking for some shopping, head to the Andino Shopping Mall, one of the largest malls in Latin America.
For those arriving by air, Bogota is serviced by El Dorado International Airport (IATA: BOG), which is located just 8 miles from the city center. Once you're in town, the best way to get around is by car or taxi.
Bogota is a vibrant city and the perfect way to end your Colombia Road Trip. With its unique culture, amazing architecture, and exciting nightlife, it's a city that's sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Colombia Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Bogota
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End:
Bogota
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Distance:
4,176 km
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Stay:
18 days
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Getting there:
El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, July, August, September, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an 18-day Colombia Road Trip, a journey encompassing 4558 km filled with breathtaking landscapes and culturally-rich cities. From the bustling streets of Bogota to the historical allure of Cartagena, this Trip invites travelers to explore the diverse heritage and scenic wonders of Colombia.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bogota: Delve into the heart of Colombia with its museums, such as the Gold Museum, and the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria.
- Neiva: Witness the otherworldly landscapes of the Tatacoa Desert and discover pre-Columbian artifacts.
- Popayán: Stroll through the `White City` with its stunning colonial architecture and Holy Week processions.
- Cali: Immerse yourself in the world capital of salsa dancing and experience its vibrant culture and nightlife.
- Montería: Explore the life of Colombian cattle ranchers and savor the local cuisine.
- Cartagena: Wander the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by fortified walls and infused with Caribbean flavor.
- Barranquilla: Join the exuberant festivities of its world-famous carnival, second only to Rio de Janeiro in size.
- Bucaramanga: Discover why it's known as the 'City of Parks,' with its abundance of natural areas and adventure sports.
- Soatá: Venture off the beaten path for an authentic Colombian experience amidst breathtaking highland scenery.
Best Time to Go:
To experience Colombia at its finest, plan your Road Trip during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is most favorable for exploration and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
Caution is advised on certain stretches of Road that may be curvy or narrow. It's essential to drive attentively and be ready for unexpected Road conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The journey is accessible to drivers with various levels of experience.
- With careful budgeting, the Trip is financially feasible for many travelers.
- The route features several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments in Cartagena.
- Colombia boasts the second-highest biodiversity in the world, offering an array of landscapes from beaches to mountains.
A good choice for:
The Colombia Road Trip is an unforgettable voyage through the country's storied past and vibrant present. It's an unparalleled opportunity to witness the myriad facets of Colombian culture and nature for any adventurous spirit.
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