Introduction

Colombia is a vibrant country located in the northwest corner of South America. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm people, it offers a unique experience for digital nomads looking to balance work and play. This article will provide a detailed itinerary for nomads visiting Colombia, highlighting the best places to work, explore, and relax. By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Colombia while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Section 1: Arriving in Bogotá

Welcome to Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia! Start your Colombian adventure by flying into El Dorado International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Latin America. From there, you can easily reach the city center by taxi or public transportation. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, it’s time to explore the vibrant streets of Bogotá.

• La Candelaria: Begin your exploration in the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria. This charming district is known for its colorful colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. Take a stroll through the Plaza de Bolivar, visit the impressive Museo del Oro, and admire the street art that adorns the walls.
• Monserrate: For a breathtaking view of the city, take a cable car or funicular up to the top of Monserrate. At an elevation of 3,152 meters, you’ll be able to see Bogotá from a whole new perspective. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the restaurants, visit the church, and take in the panoramic views.
• Zona T: If you’re in the mood for shopping and nightlife, head to Zona T. This upscale neighborhood is home to a variety of trendy boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Indulge in some retail therapy, savor the local cuisine, and dance the night away.

Section 2: Medellín, the City of Eternal Spring

After exploring Bogotá, it’s time to make your way to Medellín, often referred to as the City of Eternal Spring. Known for its pleasant climate and innovative urban projects, Medellín offers a perfect balance between work and play.

• Parque Lleras: Start your Medellín adventure in Parque Lleras, a vibrant square surrounded by restaurants, bars, and clubs. This is the perfect place to meet fellow nomads, enjoy a delicious meal, and experience the city’s nightlife.
• Comuna 13: Take a tour of Comuna 13, a neighborhood that has transformed from a troubled past to a hub of creativity. Explore the colorful street art, learn about the community’s resilience, and be inspired by the stories of transformation.
• Botanical Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find tranquility in the Botanical Garden. This lush oasis is home to a wide variety of plant species, including orchids, palms, and bromeliads. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, and reconnect with nature.

Section 3: Cartagena, the Jewel of the Caribbean

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As you continue your Colombian journey, make your way to Cartagena, a city steeped in history and surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. With its colorful colonial architecture and vibrant culture, Cartagena is a must-visit destination for digital nomads.

• Old Town: Step back in time as you wander through the narrow streets of Cartagena’s Old Town. Admire the well-preserved colonial buildings, visit the iconic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history.
• Playa Blanca: Take a day trip to Playa Blanca, a stunning white-sand beach located just outside of Cartagena. Relax under the palm trees, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
• Getsemani: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemani, known for its street art, lively atmosphere, and trendy bars. Join a salsa class, sample delicious street food, and dance the night away in one of the local salsa clubs.

Section 4: Cali, the Salsa Capital

Continue your Colombian adventure in Cali, the salsa capital of the world. Known for its vibrant music and dance scene, Cali offers a unique cultural experience for digital nomads.

• Plaza de Caycedo: Start your exploration in the heart of Cali at Plaza de Caycedo. This bustling square is surrounded by colonial buildings and is a great place to people-watch, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy some local street food.
• Cali Zoo: Visit the Cali Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, attend animal shows, and learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts.
• Salsa Clubs: Immerse yourself in the vibrant salsa scene of Cali by visiting one of the city’s many salsa clubs. Put on your dancing shoes, join a salsa lesson, and dance the night away to the infectious rhythms of salsa music.

Section 5: Santa Marta and Tayrona National Park

Next on your Colombian itinerary is Santa Marta, a coastal city located near the stunning Tayrona National Park. With its beautiful beaches and lush rainforests, this region offers a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure.

• Taganga: Explore the fishing village of Taganga, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful sunsets. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling or scuba diving, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
• Tayrona National Park: Embark on a day trip to Tayrona National Park, a true paradise for nature lovers. Hike through the dense rainforest, discover hidden beaches, and marvel at the ancient ruins of the Tayrona civilization.
• Lost City Trek: For the more adventurous nomads, consider embarking on the Lost City Trek, a multi-day hike that takes you through the jungle to the ancient ruins of Ciudad Perdida. This challenging trek offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about Colombia’s indigenous cultures.

Section 6: Coffee Region and Salento

No trip to Colombia is complete without a visit to the famous Coffee Region. Known for its lush coffee plantations and picturesque landscapes, this region offers a tranquil retreat for digital nomads.

• Salento: Start your exploration of the Coffee Region in the charming town of Salento. Take a stroll through the colorful streets, visit a coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process, and hike to the stunning Valle de Cocora, home to towering wax palm trees.
• Manizales: Visit the city of Manizales, known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Explore the city’s museums and art galleries, attend a traditional Colombian dance performance, and take a cable car ride to the top of the Cerro de Oro for panoramic views.
• Coffee Farm Tour: Immerse yourself in the world of coffee by taking a tour of a coffee farm. Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and roasting processes, and savor a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee.

Section 7: Workspaces in Colombia

As a digital nomad, finding suitable workspaces is essential for maintaining productivity. Fortunately, Colombia offers a range of coworking spaces and cafes that cater to remote workers.

• Selina: Selina is a popular coworking space with multiple locations throughout Colombia. They offer comfortable workstations, high-speed internet, and a vibrant community of like-minded individuals.
• Work&Go: Work&Go is a coworking space located in Medellín. With its modern facilities, spacious work areas, and networking events, it’s a great place to get work done while connecting with other professionals.
• Cafes: If you prefer working in a more relaxed environment, Colombia has no shortage of cozy cafes with free Wi-Fi. Some popular options include Café Velvet in Bogotá, Pergamino in Medellín, and Café San Alberto in Cartagena.

Section 8: Balancing Work and Play

While exploring Colombia’s vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes, it’s important to strike a balance between work and play. Here are some tips to help you maintain productivity while still enjoying all that Colombia has to offer.

• Establish a Routine: Set a daily work schedule and stick to it. This will help you stay focused and avoid distractions while still allowing time for exploration and relaxation.
• Take Breaks: It’s important to take regular breaks to recharge and clear your mind. Use these breaks to explore your surroundings, try local cuisine, or simply relax in a park.
• Join Work-Life Balance Activities: Many cities in Colombia offer activities that promote work-life balance, such as yoga classes, hiking groups, and language exchange meetups. Take advantage of these opportunities to meet new people and engage in activities outside of work.

Section 9: Colombian Cuisine

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One of the highlights of visiting Colombia is indulging in its delicious cuisine. From hearty soups to tropical fruits, Colombian food is a true reflection of the country’s diverse culture and flavors.

• Ajiaco: Ajiaco is a traditional Colombian soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and herbs. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
• Bandeja Paisa: Bandeja Paisa is a popular dish from the Antioquia region. It consists of rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, avocado, and arepa. It’s a filling meal that will satisfy any appetite.
• Arepa: Arepas are a staple in Colombian cuisine. These round, flat corn cakes can be filled with cheese, meat, or eggs and are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.

Section 10: Enjoying Colombia’s Natural Beauty

Colombia is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches. Take time to explore these breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in Colombia’s natural wonders.

• Tayrona National Park: Return to Tayrona National Park for a few days of relaxation and beach hopping. With its crystal-clear waters, palm-fringed beaches, and dense rainforest, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.
• Cocora Valley: Head back to Salento and embark on a hike through the enchanting Cocora Valley. Marvel at the towering wax palm trees, spot colorful hummingbirds, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• San Andrés and Providencia: If you have more time, consider visiting the Caribbean islands of San Andrés and Providencia. These idyllic islands offer pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a relaxed island vibe.

Section 11: Colombian Festivals and Culture

Colombia is known for its lively festivals and vibrant culture. Immerse yourself in the local traditions and celebrations to truly experience the spirit of Colombia.

• Feria de las Flores: Visit Medellín during the Feria de las Flores, a week-long festival celebrating flowers. Enjoy parades, concerts, and the famous Desfile de Silleteros, where locals carry elaborate flower arrangements on their backs.
• Carnaval de Barranquilla: Experience the colorful Carnaval de Barranquilla, one of the largest carnival celebrations in the world. Join the lively parades, dance to traditional music, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Día de los Muertos: If you’re visiting in November, don’t miss the Día de los Muertos celebrations. This traditional holiday honors the deceased and is marked by colorful altars, parades, and gatherings in cemeteries.

Section 12: Conclusion

Colombia offers a perfect blend of work and play for digital nomads. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the pristine beaches of Tayrona National Park, this country has something for everyone. By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of Colombia while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. So pack your bags, embrace the Colombian spirit, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

References

El Dorado International Airport: eldorado.aero

Museo del Oro: banrepcultural.org/museo-del-oro

Parque Lleras: parquelleras.com

Comuna 13: medellin.gov.co/comuna13

Botanical Garden: jardinbotanicomedellin.org

Old Town Cartagena: cartagenadeindias.travel

Playa Blanca: cartagenadeindias.travel

Getsemani: cartagenadeindias.travel

Plaza de Caycedo: cali.gov.co

Cali Zoo: zoodecali.com.co

Taganga: santamarta.com.co/taganga

Tayrona National Park: parquetayrona.com.co

Salento: salentoquindio.gov.co

Manizales: manizales.gov.co

Selina: selina.com

Work&Go: workandgo.co

Café Velvet: cafevelvet.com

Pergamino: pergamino.co

Café San Alberto: cafesanalberto.com

Feria de las Flores: feriadefloresmedellin.gov.co

Carnaval de Barranquilla: carnavaldebarranquilla.org

Día de los Muertos: colombia.travel/es/festividades/dia-de-los-muertos