Great 3-week travel routes for the UK winter - Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica

(…and importantly, are warm and sunny)

Part 2: Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica

Why we love it: Colombia couldn’t be more different to its reputation. People are genuinely kind, it’s safe, and there’s so much to see and do. Buses are easy, cheap and very safe. Panama and Costa Rica are full of biodiversity, along with a well-trodden tourist path with incredible tropical islands and peace thrown in too.

Week 1: Colombia - Bogotá, Medellín and coffee

Day 1-3: Bogotá, Colombia

• Explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood.

• Visit the Gold Museum and Botero Museum.

• Take the cable car to Monserrate for panoramic views.

• Do a free walking tour!

Day 4-6: Medellín, Colombia

• Experience the transformation of Comuna 13.

• Visit Plaza Botero and the Antioquia Museum.

• Take the Metrocable to Parque Arví.

• Definitely start with a free walking tour - this was one of the best we’ve done. Book in advance as it gets very busy: realcitytours.com

Day 7-8: Coffee Region, Colombia

• Explore coffee plantations in Salento or Manizales.

• Hike in the Cocora Valley to see the iconic wax palms.

• Enjoy coffee tastings and learn about the coffee-making process.

Week 2: Colombia - Cartagena, Panama City and Bocas del Toro

Day 8-10: Cartagena, Colombia

• Explore the historic walled city of Cartagena.

• Walk along the colorful streets of Getsemaní.

• Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas and the Palace of the Inquisition.

• Relax on the beaches of Bocagrande and visit Santa Marta and the beaches of Tayrona National Park.

Tayrona Beach

From Cartagena, either fly to Panama or take the more adventurous and beautiful route like we did - via the San Blas islands with a 6-day catamaran trip. Ask us for more details if you’re interested! In Panama:

• Explore the historic Casco Viejo district.

• Visit the Panama Canal and the Miraflores Locks.

Day 11-14: Bocas del Toro, Panama

• Fly or take a bus to Bocas del Toro.

• Relax on the beautiful beaches.

• Explore the vibrant town of Bocas del Toro.

• Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters.

Incredible San Blas Islands

Week 3: Costa Rica

Day 14-21: 

• Cross the border into Costa Rica. Head to Corcovado National Park. Hike through the rainforest, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy pristine beaches.

• Travel to Manuel Antonio National Park. Hike the trails, relax on the beaches, and spot monkeys and sloths.

• Head to La Fortuna and explore Arenal Volcano National Park.

• Travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest. Explore the cloud forest trails and canopy bridges.

Wildlife of Costa Rica!

We hope you found this useful and a good starting point to plan your trip. Get in touch if you have any other 3-week trip recommendations, or if you need help with planning your own.