Colombia
Colombia is a vibrant and lush country at the tip of South America, featuring Caribbean and Pacific coastlines and the stunning Andes mountains. Its diverse geography offers rich cultural contrasts and incredible biodiversity. Experience the essence of Magical Realism as you discover everyday adventures that reflect Gabriel García Márquez’s enchanting world.
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If you're planning to travel during our wedding, we’ve curated some tips for you. First-time visitors should spend one or two days in Bogotá before heading to Honda, and can continue by exploring Medellín, the Coffee Region, and the Caribbean Coast, with at least two days in each. If you’ve been before and want to explore more, feel free to reach out for tailored recommendations!
Bogotá
Bogotá, Colombia’s vibrant capital, is nestled in the eastern Andes at 2,700 meters. With a mild average temperature of 17°C, it's perfect for exploring rich culture, from the historic streets of La Candelaria to the treasures in the Gold Museum. Pack comfortable shoes and a cozy jumper, and take your time acclimating to the altitude. Use Uber “Comfort” or hotel transport for easy navigation, and stay aware of your surroundings. With its lively atmosphere and warm locals, Bogotá promises an unforgettable adventure!
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Hotels
Near El Dorado Airport (for connections):
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Habitel Hotel
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Hilton Garden Inn Bogotá Airport
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Courtyard by Marriott Bogotá Airport
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Grand Hyatt Bogotá Airport
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North:
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Chapinero (our recommended area):
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Rosales Neighborhood: Hilton Rosales, Coco Hotel, Artisan D.C. Hotel, BS Rosales, Embassy Suites, Holiday Inn Express, Casa Legado, Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina
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Chico Neighborhood: Click Clack, BOG Hotel, EK Hotel, Salvio Parque 93, Estelar Parque 93, Holiday Inn Parque 93
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Usaquen: W Hotel, Bh Usaquen​
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Downtown (Centro Histórico) - La Candelaria:
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Hotel Dios
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Candelaria House Boutique
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Selina La Candelaria
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One Day Itinerary
Morning and Afternoon: Downtown (Centro Histórico) La Candelaria
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Visit Plaza Bolívar
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Museums: Museo del Oro, Museo Botero, Museo Nacional
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Lunch at classic spots: Puerta Falsa (Anthony Bourdain’s favorite), Prudencia (lunch reservations only), or Madre (pizzeria), Compañia Casa del Rey
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Shops: Artesanías de Colombia, Casa Cicuta
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Coffee and desserts: Café San Alberto, Oblea and tinto from street shops.
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Monserrate
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Take the cable car for the best panoramic view of Bogota and visit the Cathedral.
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Nearby: Museo Quinta de Bolívar, a colonial house where Simón Bolívar lived.
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Night: North (Zona Norte)
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Make reservations for dinner! Here are some of our favourites:
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Mesa Franca, Salvo Patria, Rio de Todos, El Chato, Café Bar Universal, Osaka, Leo (fine dining), El Cielo (fine dining).​
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Best food and party experience:
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Andrés Carne de Res in Chía, Colombia, is a vibrant restaurant known for its delicious grilled meats and traditional dishes. With eclectic decor and a lively atmosphere, it features live music and entertainment. A must if time allows!
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Tip: Head to the original in Chía, just one hour away on Friday or Saturday if you have time or visit Andrés D.C. in Bogotá.
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Additional Recommendations
Casual Restaurants:
Abasto, Cocina de Pepina, Crepes and Waffles
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Breakfast Spots:
Arbol de Pan, Masa, Brot
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Coffee Shops:
Amor Perfecto, Tropicalia, Libertario, Colo Coffee, Café Quindío,
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Market:
Plaza Paloquemao—fruit and veg heaven for exotic tastes and a local market experience.
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Parks:
El Virrey, Jardín Botánico, Parque Simón Bolívar.
Medellín
​​​Medellín, Colombia's vibrant second city, boasts a stunning mountain backdrop and a rich cultural scene. Once marked by its turbulent past, it now thrives as a hub of innovation. With welcoming locals and delicious cuisine, Medellín offers an unforgettable experience.​​
How to get there
By plane from any major city in Colombia. Taking the Metro or Uber Comfort around the city is your best option or arrange transportation with your hotel.
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​Hotels
Any in Poblado or Laureles area, here are some of the best:
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Hotel El Cielo
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Hotel 23
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Click Clack Hotel
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El Zarzo
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Hotel Quinta Ladera
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Art Hotel
To-do
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Plaza Botero y Museo de Antioquia
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Jardin Botanico
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Pueblito Paisa en Cerro Nutibara
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Comuna 13
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Day trip: Guatape town
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Day trip: Coffee farm tour Hacienda La Sierra
Restaurants
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Local cuisine: Mondongos, Ajiacos y Mondongos
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Mercado del Rio: Local food court
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Sambombi Bistro Local
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​Cocina 33
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Idilico
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Fine Dining: El Cielo, Oci.Mde, Carmen
Coffee Region
​​​​Colombia is the land of the coffee bean and a visit to its magnificent Coffee Cultural Landscape, a proud UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must. The region covers Caldas, Quindio, Risaralda and the north of the Cauca Valley, stretching across mountains and hills covered in lush coffee plantations.​​​
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How to get there
Take a flight from Bogotá or Medellín to either Pereira or Armenia. The drive from the airport to the towns is approximately two hours. Your hotel will ususally help you arrange transportation.
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Towns to visit
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Filandia
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Salento (very toursity we recommend visiting but staying in another nearby town)
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Retiro
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Jardin
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To-do​
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Cocora Valley hike
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Coffee farm tour
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Cycle through pinturesque towns
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Hotels​
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Hacienda Bambusa
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Hotel Sazagua
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Hotel Plantacion
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Casa Du Velo (a modern stay for those wanting to cycle through towns)
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Hacienda Venecia
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Caribbean Coast
​​​​​Cartagena, a gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is famous for its colorful colonial architecture and vibrant history. The stunning old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invites exploration with its charming plazas and lively markets. Beyond Cartagena, the Caribbean coast boasts beautiful destinations like Tayrona National Park, where lush jungles meet pristine beaches, perfect for hiking and swimming. Nearby, Palomino offers a laid-back vibe with breathtaking scenery, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.
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Tip: Travelling from Cartagena to Tayrona or Palomino is a 5 hour car ride. We suggest splitting destinations and going to Cartagena and Islas del Rosario or to Tayrona and Palomino.​​​​​​​​​
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Cartagena​
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How to get there
By plane from any big city in Colombia. Taking Uber Comfort around the city is your best option or arrange transportation with your hotel.
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Hotels
Any in the Old Town or Gestemani, here are some of the best:
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Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa
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Sofitel Legend Santa Clara
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Hotel Amarla
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Hotel Pestagua
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Hotel Osh
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Private Villas: Marven Collection
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To-do​
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Walk around the Old Town
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Castillo de San Felipe
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La Popa
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Islas del Rosario and Baru - a short boat ride to beautiful beaches. We recommend looking at the private villas from Maven Collection, Airbnb, San Pedro de Majagua or Blue Apple Beach.
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Restaurants​
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Celele
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La Cevichería
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Cocina de Pepina
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Don Juan
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Carmen
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La Vitrola
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Bars and Salsa Clubs
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Cafe Havana
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Donde Fidel
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Bazurto Social Club
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Cafe del Mar
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La Movida
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Tayrona National Park and Palomino
How to get there
By plane to Santa Marta and then drive to Tayrona or Palomino which is a 2 hour car drive.
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In Tayrona National Park, immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty with hiking trails leading to breathtaking beaches like Cabo San Juan, perfect for relaxing or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Explore diverse ecosystems, from lush jungles to coastal cliffs.
Nearby Palomino offers a laid-back vibe, where you can unwind on the beach, tube down the Palomino River, or enjoy horseback rides along the shore. For a comfortable stay, consider Ecohabs Tayrona, Los Naranjos, Casa Origen, One Love, Gitana del Mar, or Naio in Palomino
