My three weeks in Colombia and Ecuador were indeed a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Are you up for it? Ecuador and Colombia are two nearby nations in South America sharing the same biodiversity and culture. With the union of these two nations, travellers like me discovered a region of the world that tour companies frequently ignore.
If you plan a three-week trip to these beautiful countries, I have you covered. I’ll give you a glimpse of my itinerary and the experiences that took me around both nations. It allowed me to taste their fascinating cultures, landmarks, food, sceneries, and viewing possibilities, making them excellent locations for a three-week vacation.
Additionally, both nations provide a ton of shopping and adventure activities, so if you visit for 3 weeks in Ecuador and Colombia, you’ll always have something to do.
With so much to learn, let’s begin organizing your 3-week adventure immediately.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO ECUADOR AND COLOMBIA
Planning a 20-day trip in Colombia and Ecuador can be overwhelming. To help you kick start your trip arrangement, here are a few things that you should know if you’re heading to these two countries in one go.
When is the best time to go to
The dry season in Colombia lasts from December through March, the best outdoor activity period. Although temperatures tend to dip in the evening, the summertime (June to August) can be rather hot.
The dry season in Ecuador lasts from June to September, the best outdoor activity period. However, as temperature and precipitation can vary from one region of the country to another, it is advisable to check the weather forecasts before departing. Between October and May is the rainy season; therefore, it’s critical to be ready for sudden downpours.
Since July and August are both countries’ busiest travel months, you may wish to plan your trip to receive the most incredible deals during these months.
Are 3 weeks enough for Ecuador and Colombia
20 days can be tight for two countries, but since these places share a land border, it’s pretty easy to cover both locations in just 3 weeks. As long as you plan ahead of time how you want to reach Ecuador from Colombia, you should be able to make it work.
Stick to seeing 2-3 cities in each country to ensure you don’t cram too much and feel like everything is in a rush.
What to pack
The number one item to pack is bug repellent, especially if you plan to go hiking in the jungle or spend lots of time in nature. If you’re visiting churches, make sure you have modest clothing or a light scarf to go over your shoulders or be used as a skirt.
We have a general packing list for a 3-week trip or you can also check our 3-week summer packing list. There’s a free checklist on those articles that you can print.
How to get around
Several choices are available for a three-week trip to Ecuador and Colombia. The cheap bus is the most popular kind of public transportation, which can be found almost anywhere there is a road. Bus travel is typically the most affordable option.
However, it can be time-consuming and occasionally uncomfortable. The train network, in comparison, only serves a portion of the nation.
Those pressed for time may condense an all-day bus trip into a quick 30-minute hop, and if the sky is clear, they can take in stunning aerial views of volcanoes and tropical rainforests along the route. Numerous airlines provide flights between the two nations, which could be costlier but quicker and more convenient.
Also, a practical choice is to rent a car if you wish to travel quickly across the nation or to locations off the main path. You must be at least 21 years old (if you are under 25, additional fees may apply) and have a major credit/debit card to pay the deposit.
You only need your national license to rent a car, but it’s also strongly advised to bring an international assignment. Reserve a car in advance through your local branch of a global rental firm for convenience, but it almost always turns out to be less expensive when you get there.
On average, a small hatchback will cost roughly $35 per day or $230 per week, and a larger vehicle will cost around $80 per day or $550 per week.
Language and currency
Spanish is the official language of both nations. However, as English is understandable in some locations, many inhabitants also understand and speak some of it in more tourist-friendly towns like Bogotá, Cartagena, and Quito.
As long as you have a fundamental comprehension of Spanish, you can communicate in English even if you don’t speak the language before the trip.
Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP) as its currency, while Ecuador uses the US Dollar (USD). Some establishments may take regional credit cards from banks like CitiBank and Bank of America, Debito Maestro, and other local cards. Cash is typically preferred by those travelling internationally, so keep some on hand.
Average travel cost for Ecuador and Colombia
In general, Colombia is more affordable than Ecuador, but if you don’t speak Spanish, you might end up with “tourist tax”. Plan to budget at least $50 a day. You will unlikely spend this much daily because you’ll probably be doing tours every day. But the accommodation alone can range between $20 to $35.
So around $1,200 is a good average budget for 3 weeks in Ecuador and Colombia. If you’re a backpacker, you can bring that down to $80 by staying in hostels and joining free walking tours. For those willing to splurge, $3,000 should be a comfortable budget.
Don’t forget that I didn’t account for flights from your home to your first destination and back. Travel insurance is also not calculated in here, yet it’s highly recommended. I like using SafetyWing because it’s affordable if not used for US travel.
Visa and COVID-19 protocol
Other travel tips
PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN ECUADOR AND COLOMBIA
Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google
3 WEEKS IN ECUADOR AND COLOMBIA ITINERARY
The itinerary can start in Quito and finish in Cali or Cartagena. I can begin in Quito and devote the first three days to learning about the city and taking in the breathtaking architecture, delectable cuisine, and fascinating historical sites.
Then I’ll take a four-day trip by plane to Cartagena to take in the city’s spectacular coastlines, cobblestone streets, and vibrant architecture. After that, I spend five days in Cali, wherein salsa dancing is nearly required. Finally, I spent three days in energetic Bogota to cap my journey.
Alternatively, I can begin in Cali, Colombia’s lively third-largest city, and travel from there to the breathtaking old town of Cartagena. I’ll then go from there to Quito, Ecuador’s vibrant capital. Before travelling to the great Amazon jungle and then to the gorgeous city of Cuenca for some culture and history, I’ll take in everything the city offers.
With this route, I have the utmost freedom to discover splendour for three weeks in Colombia and Ecuador, starting in Quito and ending in Cali or Cartagena. Don’t hesitate to make a reservation now and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Tourists can use this travel itinerary for Ecuador and Colombia, which is available in reverse.
Bogota for 3 days (Colombia)
Travelling to Bogota is the best way to begin a South American vacation. You could be wondering what to explore when you get to Bogota. There are many options. Bogota, Colombia’s capital, has much to offer; you could easily spend days there taking in the colourful culture and visiting the city’s must-see attractions.
There are many places to see and activities, from the colonial La Candelaria district’s cobblestone lanes, home to many of the oldest buildings and libraries on the continent, to the contemporary galleries and vibrant nightlife of Zona Rosa.
The best feature of Bogota, though, is its world-class museums. Visit the Gold Museum to see some of the most priceless antiques in the nation, or visit the National Museum to see some fantastic Indigenous people of Colombian culture items.
Additionally, you may go on a fascinating tour of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s former residence, the House of the Flower.
>> TIP: We also have an itinerary for 3 weeks in Colombia
Things to do in Bogota
- Bolivar Square in Bogotá
- Botero Museum
- Museo del Oro
- Teatro Colón
- Iglesia de San Francisco
- Monserrate
- Graffiti in Calle 20
- Comuna El Paraiso
- Museo Nacional de Colombia
- Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar
- Bogota food tour
- Jardín Botánico de Bogotá José Celestino Mutis
- Join Bogota bicycle tour
- Hike to La Chorrera Waterfall
- Coffee tour and tasting
- Salt Cathedral
- Villa de Leyva & Raquira Town tour
Accommodations in Bogota
- Affordable: La Casa De Huespedes or Republica Hostel Cabin Beds
- Mid-range: ibis Bogota Museo or Hotel San Francisco de Asis
- Luxury: Tequendama Suites or Hilton Garden Inn
Medellin for 3 days
If you have 3 weeks in Ecuador and Colombia, you must visit the city of spring – Medellin. It is one of the best places to learn about Colombia’s more recent history, even if it doesn’t have a historic centre or classic tourist sites. It provides a fantastic view into Colombian society.
Visitors like me are happy to see bustling cityscapes accustomed to warm weather, delicious coffee, thriving nightlife, and distinctive cultural celebrations through music and cuisine.
I travelled to Medellin from Bogota and spent three days exploring around. I rode the cable car up to Parque Arvi, a conservation area filled with lush trees and breathtaking vistas, visited nearby art galleries, and browsed the hip boutique shops in Centro. I also saw the magnificent arboretum and traditional plazas with their cobbled streets and bouncy houses to taste the local culture.
From Bogota to Medellin, direct buses operate daily. The fastest and most practical method to go to Medellin from Bogota is via plane. Even though there are only 145 miles between the two destinations, the flight takes 56 minutes.
Things to do in Medellin
- Comuna 13
- Pueblito Paisa
- Hill of Three Crosses – hiking trail
- Colombian coffee farm and tasting tour
- Ride the cable car
- Bike city tour
- Parque Lleras – streets around here are filled is popular restaurants, bars, and more
- Join a pub crawl
- Guatape and El Penol Rock
- Pablo Escobar Hacienda Tour
- Paragliding over Colombian Andes
- ATV quad tour
- Zipline and waterfall tour
Accommodations in Medellin
- Affordable: Gaston Coliving or Key West Hostel
- Mid-range: Hotel Bolivariana Plaza or 61Prado Hotel
- Luxury: Landmark Hotel or Hotel Dann Carlton
Cartagena for 3 days
Cartagena is a must-visit Colombia location if you’re considering travelling there. This breathtaking city, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty is well-known for its exciting nightlife and upscale resorts – tourists like me enjoy its charming colonial architecture and old-world appeal.
San Felipe Castle is easily missed and is the most well-known landmark in Cartagena. It was constructed in 1657 to fend against pirates hoping to steal the silver and gold headed for Europe. Also, Access to the sun and sand is one of Cartagena’s key draws for tourists.
That’s why I visited the Bocagrande neighbourhood of the city. Lastly, I considered a free walking tour to experience Cartagena’s Old City. I spent a few hours strolling through the city’s streets with a knowledgeable local guide, learning about its intriguing history.
Flying takes an hour and is the quickest way to travel from Medellin to Cartagena. Domestic non-stop flights such as Jose Maria Cordova Airport (MDE) and Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport are the two airports that serve Medellin (EOH). For direct flights to Cartagena, most flights leave from MDE in the nearby city of Rionegro.
You can end your journey here and return to Bogota to board a flight to Quito.
Things to do in Cartagena
- Snorkel at Rosario Island Catamaran
- Torre del Reloj
- Playa Blanca
- Isla Grande
- Cartagena sunset cruise
- Zenu Gold Museum
- Convento De La Popa and Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
- Islas del Rosario
- Get yourself a hop-on hop-off bus tour
- The Palace of the Inquisition
- Join paratriking flight
- City Walls
- Enjoy a bioluminescent plankton tour
- Ride the Chiva Party Bus
- Getsemani highlights and graffiti tour
- Visit La Boquilla and the Mangroves
- Totumo mud volcano
Accommodations in Cartagena
- Affordable (Barranquilla): Hotel Aquarius or Hostel Mamy Dorme
- Mid-range (Barranquilla): Hotel Windsor or GHL Hotel
- Luxury (Barranquilla): Hotel Dorado Plaza Alto Prado or Crowne Plaza
- Affordable (Cartagena): Casa Hostel Shalom Adonai or Posada Barrios Mar
- Mid-range (Cartagena): Baluarte Cartagena Hotel or Hotel Blue Concept
- Luxury (Cartagena): Sophia Hotel or La Passion by Masaya
Cali for 2 days
It’s no surprise that Cali is a well-liked tourist destination with its brilliant colours, welcoming locals, and plentiful things to see and do. This city has a thriving nightlife and numerous historic landmarks, including the well-known Cristo Rey statue and surrounding archaeological sites.
As you move through the city, you can stop by the Cali River’s banks and appreciate the colonial-era architecture of churches like Ermita and other national historic landmarks. Don’t forget to visit essential locations like the Zoológico de Cali, the Barrio Granada, and the enormous Cristo Rey.
This statue stands guard over the city from the Cerro de las Tres Cruces and resembles Rio de Janeiro’s Cristo Redentor. Partying is one of the best things to do in Cali, especially in the Juanchito neighbourhood, where numerous dance clubs and a distinctive vibe will have you on your feet.
how to cross the land border from Cali to Quito
Bus travel from Cali to Quito takes 15 hours and 7 minutes, costing $60 to $90. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes 7hr and 42m and costs between $130 and $300.
The most popular route for travellers is via the Rumichaca border crossing, which connects the towns of Ipiales on the Colombian side with Tulcan on the Ecuadorian side. Getting to Ipiales, a city barely a minute’s from the Rumichaca border, is the first step towards crossing the border. Although there are shuttle buses that travel between the Ipiales bus station and the wall, I discovered that using a taxi would be safer, more pleasant, and within my price range as it only cost 8 000 COP.
Things to do in Cali
- Capilla La Ermita
- River tubing San Cipriano
- Learn Salsa Dance
- Join a Cali City tour
- El Cristo Rey statue
- Valle del Cauca Hacienda and Sugar Cane tour
- Parque Nacional Natural Farallones de Cali
- Explore the Jungle near Cali
- Plaza de Cayzedo
- Food and market tour
Accommodations in Cali
- Affordable: Hostal La Mercedes or Hava Hostel
- Mid-range: Hotel Quinta Norte Chipichape or Park V
- Luxury: Alko Hotel Casa Nispero or Hotel Intercontinental
Quito for 4 days
Ecuador’s capital city, Quito, is a must-see location because of its stunning old town in a colonial style, the height of the city, and the natural landscape treasures. Four days in Quito will allow you to explore the city’s magnificent architecture and hike across some spectacular scenery.
Quito is one of Ecuador’s crown jewels, as it was one of the first cities in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the best-preserved Old Towns in the Americas.
Visits to Quito are complete with exploring the city’s historic centre and everything it offers. Beautiful colonial structures, adorable cafes, eateries, and the presidential palace at Plaza Grande are found in the city’s historic district. Try to go to Quilotoa Crater next. It is among the most incredible things to do in Quito, and I enjoyed the tour! This enormous crater was once a volcano and is now home to a stunning blue lake.
The most famous monument in Ecuador is the Mitad del Mundo Monument, which marks the equator there. You can climb the trapezoid-shaped stone memorial here at the monument (for free) and obtain breathtaking views of the surrounding area in addition to standing in the middle of the earth.
Things to do in Quito
Accommodations in Qutio
Guayaquil for 4 days
It’s simple to travel directly from Quito to Guayaquil by bus or even by renting a car. The bus route takes about 5 hours, making it a convenient and affordable method to go to your following location.
Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, is home to some of the city’s best eateries, bars, and stores. First, I visited Park Seminario, where there are about 100 iguanas that roam the park in anticipation of being fed, as it is one of the most incredible things to do. Next, Las Penas’ vibrant area is interesting enough to explore. See the several art galleries along the route as you ascend the numbered stairs to the lighthouse at the top of the hill.
Seeing the church on Cerro Santa Ana Hill is a beautiful sight. However, the flashy blue and white lighthouse is the most engaging activity at the summit of the 444 stairs. Climb up for some breathtaking.
Things to do in Guayaquil
Accommodations in Guayaquil
SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN ITINERARY
No matter where you begin your trip – in Bogota, Cali, or Cartagena – your three weeks in Colombia and Ecuador will undoubtedly be recollected. Navigating through various places with a combination of Spanish and a few local languages will be fun and a fantastic chance to pick up a new language.
There are cultural experience scenes, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine to savour, whether you go through the Ecuadorian Amazon or the Colombian Andes. Colombia and Ecuador are eager for you, so start packing and planning your vacation.
I hope this travel itinerary for 3 weeks in Ecuador and Colombia helped you visualise and plan your trip. Whether you want to cross the borders by land or air, both are possible depending on the comfort you’re looking for. And finally, make sure you look up when the rainy season is so you can avoid it.