In the spring break of 2025, I embarked on a memorable 10-day, 9-night journey to Colombia—my very first visit to South America. To say it was an incredible experience would be an understatement.
Throughout this adventure, I had the privilege of exploring some of Colombia’s most iconic cities. From planning to execution, I received invaluable advice and support from friends on Xiaohongshu, which inspired me to pen down a detailed travelogue for this trip. My hope is that this account will serve as a useful guide for future travelers to Colombia, offering them a wealth of information to plan their own journeys.
I set off from the East Coast, specifically Cleveland, and flew round-trip to Bogotá. However, my Colombian odyssey didn’t begin in Bogotá but followed a scenic route: Cleveland → Atlanta (layover) → Bogotá (layover) → Pereira → Salento → Medellín → Cartagena → Bogotá → DC (layover) → Cleveland.
The highlights of my trip included:
– The breathtaking mountain views and vibrant cityscape of Pereira;
– The charming coffee town of Salento and the majestic Cocora Valley, renowned for its towering palm trees;
– Medellín’s dynamic Laureles district, District 13, and San Felix (home to thrilling paragliding adventures);
– The awe-inspiring Guatapé rock;
– Cartagena’s enchanting old city and its bustling airport area;
– Medellín’s Park 93 and its culturally rich museum district.
To navigate through these destinations, I utilized a mix of transportation modes, including airplanes, urban public transit, intercity buses, and even large trucks for a truly immersive experience.
Each city will have its own dedicated travelogue, accompanied by captivating visuals:
– Photo 1: A panoramic view of downtown Pereira from the surrounding mountains; Photos 2 and 3: The lively streets of Pereira;
– Photos 4 and 5: The picturesque center of Salento town;
– Photos 6, 7, and 8: Stunning nightscapes and the vibrant Laureles neighborhood in Medellín;
– Photos 9-12: The timeless charm of Cartagena’s old city;
– Photos 13-14: The cultural hub of Bogotá.
As I delve into each city’s travelogue, I’ll share more photographs to vividly portray Colombia’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Stay tuned for a deeper dive into this unforgettable journey!
