Updated on 03/30/2024
Dear readers,
My name is Frank, and I manage a golf travel operator in Colombia based in Bogota. We specialize in golf trips throughout Colombia.
Following the example golf trip below, you will find additional variations with different destinations and durations.
Content
Summary of the Colombia Golf Trip
Day 1 – Bogota – Arrival
Day 2 – Bogota
Day 3 – Bogota – Golf course in Bogota
Day 4 – Bogota – Guatavita – Zipaquira
Day 5 – Bogota – San Andres Funza Golf Course – Bogota
Day 6 – Bogota – La Cima Golf Course – Bogota
Day 7 – Bogota – Coffee Triangle – Salento
Day 8 – Salento – Golf Course Armenia – Salento
Day 9 – Salento – Quindio – Salento
Day 10 – Salento – Golf Course Manizales – Salento
Day 11 – Salento – Cartagena
Day 12 – Cartagena – Campestre Golf Course – Cartagena
Day 13 – Cartagena – Rosario Islands – Cartagena
Day 14 – Cartagena – Karibana Golf Course – Cartagena
Day 15 – Cartagena – Departure
Planned destinations for the Colombia Golf Trip
Bogota
Bogota is the capital of Colombia with over 10 million inhabitants. It is Colombia’s political, economic, cultural and tourist center and generates most of the national GDP.
At over 2,600 meters (8,600 feet) above sea level, it is the third-highest capital city in South America. With average temperatures of 7° C – 20° C (45° F – 68° F), the climate varies between cold and temperate. Bogota has an area of 1,775 km2 (685 sq mi), which is more than twice the size of Singapore.
Bogota was founded by the Spanish in 1538 but was already inhabited by the Pre-Muiscas. Most of the tourist attractions are located in the historic center of La Candelaria. The city’s wide range of cultural offerings, represented in museums, theaters and libraries, has earned it the name “South American Athens”.
Some essential sights in Bogota are the local mountain Monserrate, the Gold and Botero Museum as well as the food markets Paloquemao and La Perseverancia.
Colombian Coffee Triangle
The Colombian Coffee Triangle, also called the coffee region or zona cafetera, is a scenic and culturally rich area in central Colombia. Made up of three departments: Caldas, Quindío and Risaralda, it includes numerous charming towns and lush landscapes.
The Coffee Triangle is known for its first-class coffee production and is one of the top coffee-growing regions in the world. Coffee growing is deeply rooted in the region’s culture and history, and the region’s fertile volcanic soils and ideal climate create perfect conditions for growing high-quality coffee beans.
This region offers stunning landscapes of rolling hills, emerald valleys and scenic mountain ranges. Adorned with vibrant coffee plantations, colorful flower farms and cloud forests, the area offers breathtaking views at every turn.
The region is dotted with charming colonial towns and villages, each with its unique character and architectural charm. Cities like Salento, Filandia and Manizales are characterized by well-preserved colonial-style buildings, cobblestone streets and colorful facades that add to the region’s allure.
Salento
Salento is a charming and picturesque town in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, exactly in the department of Quindío. Salento is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, colorful architecture and proximity to the stunning Cocora Valley. The coffee culture is deeply rooted in the city’s identity.
Visitors can explore coffee plantations, called “fincas“, and learn about the coffee-making process, from picking the beans to roasting and brewing the aromatic beverage. One of Salento’s main attractions is the day trip to the Cocora Valley, a natural wonderland. The valley is famous for its towering wax palms, the tallest palm trees in the world and the national tree of Colombia. Hiking is the main activity here.
Salento has a charming colonial-style architecture with brightly painted houses and balconies adorned with flowers. The city’s main square, Plaza de Bolívar, is a hub of activity with its colorful facades and charming cafés. The town is home to several art galleries and craft shops where visitors can shop for local artwork, handmade souvenirs, and traditional crafts including pottery, weaving and painting.
Filandia
Filandia is located in the department of Quindío and it is known for its breathtaking landscapes, colonial architecture, coffee culture and warm hospitality.
The city’s main square, Plaza de Bolívar, is well-preserved and features a historic church exuding a peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding region is dotted with coffee plantations and visitors have the opportunity to learn about the coffee-making process and taste the world-famous Colombian coffee.
The Mirador de Filandia, or the town viewpoint, offers spectacular views of the lush valleys and coffee plantations below. The village is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. Visitors can explore numerous craft shops where local artisans display their creations, including pottery, weaving and woodwork that you can buy as a souvenir.
Buenavista
Buenavista is a scenic town in the Quindío department of Colombia’s coffee region. This charming village nestled amidst the lush green coffee plantation landscape offers visitors a peaceful retreat into Colombia’s coffee-growing heritage.
Visitors can explore coffee plantations or “fincas” and learn about the coffee-making process here too. The city is surrounded by stunning scenery, including rolling hills, fertile valleys and sweeping views of the Andes.
The picturesque landscapes make Buenavista a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Buenavista keeps the charming colonial-style architecture with colorful, adorned houses. The city’s central square, Plaza de Bolívar, is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the colonial ambiance and soak up the local atmosphere.
Cartagena
In terms of tourism, Cartagena is probably the most important Colombian city after Bogota. It is the capital of the Bolivar department on the north coast of Colombia. The average temperature is 32°C (89°F), so the climate is hot but windy as it is at sea level.
Over 500 years of history can be found here, proof of that is that Cartagena was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Its perfect location directly on the Caribbean Sea and its beautiful colonial old town (Ciudad Amurallada) enchant national and international tourists, who can also travel there by cruise ship.
In the historical center, you will find many attractions featuring the famous Castle of San Felipe de Barajas, boutique hotels and restaurants. The walled city is also known as a popular honeymoon destination for the romance of its streets and architecture.
Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands, also called “Islas del Rosario” locally, are a group of idyllic and paradisiacal islands in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia.
This archipelago is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a desirable destination for beach lovers and snorkelers. In fact, it is part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Coral National Park, established to protect the region’s valuable marine ecosystems. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles and rays.
The Rosario Islands offer a true Caribbean paradise experience with their white sandy beaches, palm-fringed shores and warm tropical waters. The islands are an escape from the busy city life of Cartagena and offer a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
Isla Grande is the largest and most popular island in the archipelago. It offers various accommodation options, restaurants and beach clubs, so it is an ideal base point for exploring the area. The Rosario Islands are easily accessible from Cartagena and many tour operators offer day trips and excursions to the islands.
Golf courses of the Colombia Golf Trip
Golf courses in Bogota
La Cima Golf Club, La Calera
Website: https://www.clubdegolflacima.com/
Location: Km 13 via Bogotá – La Calera
Altitude: 3,000 meters above sea level (9,842 feet asl)
Average temperature: 5 – 17º Celsius (41 – 63º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 50 minutes by car
Onsite hotel: No
Onsite restaurant: Yes
Located in the municipality of La Calera on the eastern hills of Bogotá, La Cima Golf Club is one of the best and few public golf courses in Colombia.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 70
- Types of grass:
- Fairways: Kikuyo
- Greens: Bentgrass – Poa
- Length: 6,089 yards
- Designer: Boris Sokoloff
- Caddy: Mandatory
- Golf Cart: No
- Rental Equipment: Yes
Club El Rincón, Cajicá
Website: http://www.clubelrincon.com/
Location: Km. 26 Carretera Central Norte Via Sopó , Cajicá , Cundinamarca
Altitude: 2,558 meters above sea level (8,392 feet asl)
Average temperature: 6 – 20º Celsius (43 – 68º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 1 hour 30 minutes by car
Onsite hotel: No
Onsite restaurant: Yes
North of Bogota, near the municipality of Cajicá, the El Rincón Club was founded by 8 friends and golf lovers and is now one of the best in the country.
It is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the country and is considered one of the top 50 in the world. In 1980, golfers from different countries gathered there to take part in the World Cup, one of the most important events in the club’s history.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Types of grass:
- Fairways: Kikuyo
- Green: Bent Grass
- Length: 7,150 yards
- Designer: Robert Trent Jones
- Caddy: Mandatory
- Golf carts: Only in exceptional cases
- Rental equipment: Limited
San Andrés Golf Club, Funza
Website: http://sanandresgolfclub.com/
Location: Cl. 15 #24 – 80, Funza , Cundinamarca
Altitude: 2,548 meters above sea level (8,359 feet asl)
Average temperature: 6 – 20º Celsius (43 – 68º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 1 hour 20 minutes by car
Onsite hotel: No
Onsite restaurant: Yes
The San Andrés Golf Club is located in western Bogotá. It preserves Scottish architecture and is one of the oldest golf courses in Colombia. The club also has one of the few 18-hole children’s golf courses.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Types of grass:
- Fairways: Kikuyo
- Green: Poa
- Length: 7,145 yards
- Designer: Thompson & Jones
- Caddy: Mandatory
- Golf carts: Only in exceptional cases
- Rental equipment: Limited
Golf courses in the Coffee Triangle
Armenia Country Club
Website: https://www.clubcampestrearmenia.net
Location: Km. 10 via Armenia – Aeropuerto International El Edén , Armenia, Quindío
Altitude: 1,480 meters above sea level (4,855 feet asl)
Average temperature: 15 – 28º Celsius (59 – 82º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 25 minutes by car
Onsite hotel: Yes
Onsite restaurant: Yes
The Armenia Country Club is located on the outskirts of the city, in an area with beautiful hilly landscapes full of coffee plantations, tall palm trees and a fresh atmosphere.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 71
- Types of grass:
- Fairways: Bermuda
- Green: Poa
- Length: 6,588 yards
- Designers: Rafael & Jaime Villegas – Fernando Gamboa
- Caddy: Mandatory
- Golf Cart: Yes
- Rental Equipment: Limited
Manizales Country Club
Website: https://www.clubmanizales.co/sede-campestre/
Location: Vereda Las Pavas, Via Manizales – Chinchiná, Manizales, Caldas
Altitude: 1,250 meters above sea level (4,101 ft asl)
Average temperature: 13 – 22º Celsius (55 – 72º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 30 minutes by car
Onsite hotel: No
Onsite restaurant: Yes
The Country Club in the rural area of Manizales is part of the three locations of Club Manizales. This one includes a golf course surrounded by an enchanting coffee landscape.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Types of grass:
- Fairway: Tifway 419
- Green: Tifgreen 328
- Length: 6,602 yards
- Designers: Rafael & Jaime Villegas – Fernando Gamboa
- Caddy: Mandatory
- Golf Cart: No
- Rental equipment: No
Golf Courses in Cartagena
Karibana Golf Club Resort
Website: https://www.karibanaclub.com.co/
Location: Km 12 Anillo Vial, via Barranquilla, Cartagena
Altitude: 2 meters above sea level (6.5 feet asl)
Average temperature: 24 – 31º Celsius (75 – 88º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 35 minutes by car to old town Onsite
Onsite hotel: Yes
Onsite restaurant: Yes
Nestled between native forest and the beautiful Caribbean beach, the Karibana hotel and golf club is definitely one of the best golf courses in Colombia. The golf course was home to the first Cartagena de Indias at the Karibana Championship (part of the PGA-sanctioned Web.com Tour) in 2015 and the 2019 Colombian Open.
On the first 9 holes, there are 6 artificial lakes surrounded by forests and wide fairways, while the remaining 9 holes offer sea views and require greater effort due to the wind, plus around 135 bunkers. To cool off in the warm climate characteristic of the region, beverage carts drive around the course offering cold beverages to athletes.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Types of grass:
- Fairways: Bent
- Green: Bent
- Length: 7,065 yards
- Designer: Nicklaus Design
- Caddy: No
- Golf Cart: Yes – With GPS
- Rental Equipment: Yes
Cartagena Country Club
Website: https://www.clubcampestredecartagena.com/ Facebook
Location: Kilometer 1 via Turbaco, sector Puente Honda
Altitude: 5 meters above sea level (16.4 feet asl)
Average temperature: 24 – 31º Celsius (75 – 88º Fahrenheit)
Time to city center: 55 minutes by car Onsite
Onsite hotel: No
Onsite restaurant: Yes
The Cartagena Country Club was originally founded in 1933 by 57 residents of the Caribbean city, members of the initiative of the Andean National Corporation. Here, members, their families and guests can enjoy social and sporting activities in an exclusive atmosphere on the outskirts of the community.
The club has an 18-hole golf course that hosts various tournaments such as the Ryder Cup, the Cartagena de Indias International Children’s and Youth Tournament, the Fedgolf Cup and its own amateur tournament.
- Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Types of grass:
- Fairways: Bermuda
- Green: Bermuda Tif Dwarf
- Length: 6,901 yards
- Designer: Rafael and Jaime Villegas
- Caddy: Yes
- Golf Cart: Yes
- Rental equipment: No
Detailed Colombia Golf Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Bogota
Arrival in Bogota
You will be picked up at the airport in Bogota and driven to your hotel. The bilingual guide will be waiting for you at the airport exit.
Accommodation
Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Bogota.
Day 2: Bogota
Full-day city tour of Paloquemao, Monserrate, Museums and La Candelaria
Your first stop is Paloquemao, an iconic place for catering to families and businesses in Bogota. The market offers a wide range of flowers, fruits, vegetables, meat, groceries, dairy products, herbs and much more and the opportunity to taste and learn about fresh fruit juices.
Then visit the “La Candelaria” district and the historic center of Bogota with its colorful colonial buildings and stone streets. During the tour, you will visit the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, both in La Candelaria.
The Gold Museum is where you can discover the world’s largest collection of pre-Hispanic goldsmith’s art, with around 34,000 pieces of gold and around 25,000 objects in ceramic, stone, bone and textile made by several Colombian indigenous cultures. This museum is closed on Tuesdays.
In the Botero Museum, you will find a large art collection donated by the famous local artist Fernando Botero, including 87 universal works of art and 123 works created by Botero himself. Works by international artists such as Renoir, Monet, Degas, Dalí, Pissarro, Bonnard and others are represented in the museum.
Finally, visit the Sanctuary of Monserrate, the city’s symbol and main tourist attraction. The summit is 3,150 meters (10,334 feet) above sea level and therefore offers spectacular views of the city. To climb the mountain, you can take the cable car or walk up the hiking trail.
Day 3: Bogota – Bogota Golf Course
Service
Hotel pick-up: 08:30
Golf course in Bogota
Tee time: 09:30
Then return to the hotel.
Day 4: Bogota – Guatavita – Zipaquira – Bogota
Full day tour Guatavita Lagoon and Salt Cathedral
The Guatavita Lagoon is located approximately 90 minutes from Bogotá. This lagoon is the setting for the authentic “El Dorado Legend”. It was a sacred place for the Muiscas indigenous people and it is still used as such today. Guatavita has an altitude of 3.100 meters above sea level (10.170 feet) and an average temperature of 5 °C to 11 °C (41° F to 52 °F). To get to the lagoon you must walk a path and due to the rainfall, we recommend wearing comfortable clothes and keeping a raincoat on hand.
After the visit to Guatavita, you will go to the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá – the first wonder of Colombia, which is located in a salt mine 180 meters underground. It is a place regularly visited by Catholics, but its architecture and history leave all visitors astonished.
Day 5: Bogota – San Andres Funza Golf Course – Bogota
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
San Andres Golf Course
Tee time: 10:00
Then return to the hotel.
Day 6: Bogota – La Cima Golf Course – Bogota
Service
Hotel pick-up: 08:30
La Cima golf course
Tee time: 09:30
Then return to the hotel.
Day 7: Bogota – Coffee Triangle – Salento
Travel day
Service
Hotel pick-up: 08:30
Flight to the Coffee Triangle.
Arrive in the Coffee Triangle
You will be picked up at the Airport in the Coffee Triangle and driven to your hotel. The bilingual guide will be waiting for you at the airport exit.
Accommodation
Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Salento.
Day 8: Salento – Golf Course Armenia – Salento
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
Armenia golf course
Tee time: 10:00
Then return to the hotel.
Day 9: Salento – Quindio – Salento
Full-day tour of Quindio
A driver and guide will pick you up at the hotel. The tour will show you the department of Quindio and some of its most precious towns and villages. You will visit 4 destinations full of architecture and impressive culture. The first stop is Salento, followed by Pitalito and Buenavista.
Visit to the Cafe San Alberto coffee farm
This is a top-notch coffee tour. It includes a 2-hour walking tour of Hacienda San Alberto, a farm and cafe in the village of Buenavista. There you will learn about the “from-seed-to-cup” process, visit the quality laboratory and finish with a coffee tasting using alternative methods. The café offers panoramic views of the plantations and surrounding villages.
Day 10: Salento – Manizales Golf Course – Salento
Service
Pick-up: 08:00
Manizales golf course
Tee time: 10:00
Then return to the hotel.
Day 11: Salento – Cartagena
Travel day
Service
Hotel pick-up: 08:30
Flight to Cartagena.
Arrival in Cartagena
You will be picked up at the airport in Cartagena and driven to your hotel. The bilingual guide will be waiting for you at the airport exit.
Accommodation
Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Cartagena.
Day 12: Cartagena – Campestre Golf Course – Cartagena
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
Campestre golf course
Tee time: 10:00
Then return to the hotel.
Day 13: Cartagena
Private Boat Tour to Rosario Islands
The driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you to the pier. There you will embark on a tour of the Rosario Islands, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea made up of 28 islands. The natural national park was established to protect one of the most important coral reefs on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. From Cartagena, the boat trip takes about 45 minutes.
During the private boat excursion to the islands, you will be taken care of by the captain and an assistant. Cold drinks and delicious snacks round off the view of the blue sea perfectly. You can explore the beaches and islands at your leisure or pursue other activities.
Day 14: Cartagena – Karibana Golf Course – Cartagena
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
Karibana golf course
Tee time: 09:30
Then return to the hotel.
Day 15: Cartagena – Departure
Departure
Today is the last day of your trip. Depending on the departure time, a vehicle will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the airport.
Very Important Info to Know when Visiting Colombia
Tips & Tricks for travelers visiting Colombia
Medical advice and recommendations for travelers visiting Colombia
Climate and weather overview for Colombia
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