Colombia had always been on my travel list, but when my friend invited me to their wedding in Quindío, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to explore this beautiful country. My dad, who had never been to South America, decided to join me, eager to experience Colombia’s landscapes, culture, and coffee firsthand. Over the next eight days, we embarked on an unforgettable journey, from the lush green hills of Quindío to the vibrant streets of Cartagena.
Table of Contents
Days 1-3: The Wedding in Quindío & Coffee Farm Tour
Our adventure began in Quindío, a region famous for its coffee plantations and stunning landscapes. After arriving at our charming hacienda-style hotel, we took some time to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. The wedding itself was a dream, held at a breathtaking estate surrounded by rolling hills, vibrant flowers, and towering palm trees. The celebration was filled with lively music, delicious Colombian food, and the warmth of friends and family. It was my first time experiencing a Colombian wedding, and I quickly learned that these celebrations are full of energy, laughter, and, of course, dancing until dawn. My dad, who isn’t usually much of a dancer, even found himself caught up in the rhythm of salsa and cumbia by the end of the night! The wedding dance floor went until 6am, we definitely did not last that long.
- A beautiful wedding in a hacienda surrounded by Quindío’s hills
- Colombian wedding traditions: vibrant music, dances, and local dishes
The day after the wedding, we set out on a coffee farm tour at Finca El Agrado, an experience that my dad had been especially excited about. We visited a small family-run finca, where we were warmly greeted by the owners and their playful dogs. Our guide walked us through the entire process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee, explaining how Colombia’s climate and altitude make it one of the best places in the world for coffee production. We even got to hand-pick ripe coffee cherries and taste freshly brewed coffee straight from the source. My dad, a lifelong coffee lover, said it was one of the highlights of his trip. We ended the tour with a bag of locally roasted beans to bring home as a delicious souvenir.
- Visit to a family-owned coffee farm to learn the entire coffee-making process
- Hands-on experience of picking coffee cherries and learning about local farming methods
- Tasting fresh coffee and understanding why Colombian coffee is world-renowned
Day 4: Exploring Salento & Hiking Valle de Cocora
We started the day in Salento, a picturesque town known for its colorful colonial architecture, artisan shops, and relaxed atmosphere. Walking through the town felt like stepping back in time, with brightly painted balconies, cobblestone streets, and friendly locals greeting us as we passed. We spent the morning exploring Calle Real, the main street lined with craft stores selling handmade goods, leather products, and woven bags. We climbed up to the Mirador de Salento, where we were rewarded with sweeping views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
- Salento’s charming streets filled with colorful colonial houses
- Visiting the Mirador de Salento for panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills
- Sampling local delicacies like empanadas and pandebonos in quaint town cafes
That afternoon, we set out for Valle de Cocora, home to the towering wax palm trees, Colombia’s national tree. The hike was breathtaking, with mist rolling over the hills, hummingbirds flitting about, and lush greenery stretching as far as the eye could see. The journey took us through dense cloud forests, across suspension bridges, and up steep trails leading to panoramic viewpoints. My dad, who’s always loved the outdoors, was in awe of the towering wax palms, some reaching up to 200 feet in height. We took our time soaking in the beauty of the valley before rewarding ourselves with a hot chocolate and cheese snack at a nearby café, a local favorite.
- Hiking through Valle de Cocora, surrounded by the towering wax palm trees
- Views of misty mountains, lush forests, and unique flora and fauna
- A moderate hike through the valley’s scenic landscapes, perfect for nature lovers
Days 5-8: Cartagena- The Walled City & Getsemaní
With our time in Quindío coming to an end, we boarded a flight to Cartagena, a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Caribbean coastline. Stepping into Cartagena felt like entering another world, colorful colonial buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and the scent of fresh arepas filling the air.
Our first stop was the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by thick stone walls. We spent hours wandering through its winding streets, admiring the architecture, and stopping at cozy cafes for a refreshing limonada de coco. One of the highlights was Plaza de los Coches, where we tried local sweets like cocadas and tamarind balls from street vendors. We also explored the bustling Bazurto Market, a chaotic but fascinating place to experience authentic local life, with vendors selling fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and handmade crafts.
- Strolling through Cartagena’s charming Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visiting Plaza de los Coches and trying traditional Colombian street foods
- Stopping at scenic cafes for refreshing drinks like limonada de coco
The next day, we explored Getsemaní, Cartagena’s artistic and bohemian neighborhood. The streets were alive with colorful murals, music, and energy. We took a guided street art tour, learning about the history and significance behind each mural. The neighborhood was once overlooked by tourists but has since become a cultural hub, filled with boutique cafes, live music, and a buzzing nightlife scene. One of our favorite moments was stumbling upon an impromptu dance performance in Plaza de la Trinidad, where locals and tourists joined together for a lively salsa session under the open sky.
- Guided tour of Getsemaní, famous for its street art and cultural vibrancy
- Exploring the murals and learning about the stories behind them
- Enjoying the local art scene, live music, and creative spaces that define the neighborhood
One evening, we dined at 7 Cielos, a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the city. As the sun set over the Caribbean, we enjoyed fresh seafood, flavorful ceviche, and expertly crafted cocktails. The atmosphere was magical, with soft candlelight, live music, and a warm ocean breeze. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in Cartagena’s charm.
- Dining at 7 Cielos, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Cartagena
- Savoring delicious seafood and cocktails while watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea
- A relaxing evening enjoying the cool breeze and vibrant city atmosphere
Additional Travel Tips for Visiting Colombia
If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, here are some helpful travel tips to make your experience even better:
- Currency & Payments: The Colombian peso (COP) is widely used, and cash is necessary for smaller towns and markets. However, most hotels and restaurants in major cities accept credit cards.
- Language: Spanish is the primary language, and while some people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way.
- Safety: Colombia has become much safer for tourists, but it’s still important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid flashing valuables and use registered taxis or rideshare apps like Uber.
- Packing Essentials: Pack light, breathable clothing for Cartagena’s warm climate and a light jacket for the cooler temperatures in Quindío. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
- Transportation: Domestic flights between regions are affordable and save time. In cities, taxis, buses, and Uber are reliable options.
- Food & Drink: Don’t miss trying local dishes like arepas, bandeja paisa, and sancocho. And, of course, enjoy Colombia’s world-famous coffee!
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to March) is the best time to visit, offering sunny days and comfortable temperatures, especially in Cartagena.
- Stay Hydrated: The Caribbean heat in Cartagena can be intense, so always carry a water bottle and wear sunscreen.
Our eight days in Colombia were nothing short of incredible. From celebrating love in Quindío to immersing ourselves in the history and vibrancy of Cartagena, every moment was an adventure. My dad, who had been hesitant about traveling so far, left with a newfound appreciation for Colombian culture, landscapes, and, of course, coffee. As for me, I know this won’t be my last trip to Colombia, there’s still so much left to explore.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers stunning nature, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Colombia should be at the top of your list.
With love,
Bri & Cat
Related Posts You May Like:
Hiking Valle de Cocora in Colombia – A Breathtaking Adventure Through Colombia’s Coffee Region
From Bean to Brew: A Day on a Coffee Farm in Quindío, Colombia
Hidden Gems in Cartagena: A Personal Journey Beyond the Tourist Trail
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