Updated on 03/27/2024
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 – La Cima Golf Course – Bogota
Day 4 – Bogota – El Rincon Golf Course – Bogota
Day 5 – Bogota – Guatavita – Zipaquira – Bogota
Day 6 – Bogota – San Andres Funza Golf Course – Bogota
Day 7 – Bogota
Day 8 – Bogota – Bogota Golf Course
Day 9 – Bogota – Cartagena
Day 10 – Cartagena – Karibana Golf Course – Cartagena
Day 11 – Cartagena
Day 12 – Cartagena – Campestre Golf Course – Cartagena
Day 13 – Cartagena – San Basilio de Palenque – Cartagena
Day 14 – Cartagena – Campestre Golf Course – Cartagena
Day 15 – Cartagena – Rosario Islands – Cartagena
Day 16 – Cartagena – Karibana Golf Course – Cartagena
Day 17 – 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.
Guatavita
The municipality of Guatavita – Cundinamarca 53 km northeast of Bogota is recognized for giving rise to the most representative legend of Colombia, one of the most important in the world and Cultural Heritage of the Nation “The story of the Legend of El Dorado”. It is the religious, cultural and ancestral capital of the Muisca people. In Guatavita there is “Guatavita the Origin of the Legend” an area of 13.8 ha, consisting of a historic center with high heritage value and a cultural and tourist development polygon on the banks of the Tominé reservoir.
Zipaquira
Zipaquirá is a historic and enchanting town located in the Cundinamarca Department of Colombia, approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles) north of Bogotá, the capital city. This charming town is famous for its awe-inspiring underground salt cathedral and well-preserved colonial architecture.
The Salt Cathedral is the primary attraction of Zipaquirá and a marvel of engineering and faith. Carved inside the tunnels of a salt mine, the cathedral is an underground sanctuary with impressive salt sculptures, religious artwork, and an ethereal atmosphere. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a masterpiece of Colombian architecture.
Zipaquirá’s historical center features well-preserved colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming squares. Visitors can stroll through the town’s quaint streets and admire its colonial architecture, including the main square, Plaza de los Comuneros.
In addition to its colonial heritage, Zipaquirá has pre-Columbian archaeological sites, such as the ancient Muisca settlement of El Abra, which offers insights into the region’s indigenous history.
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.
San Basilio de Palenque
San Basilio de Palenque is a historic town located in Colombia, renowned for its unique cultural heritage and historical significance. Situated about 50 miles southeast of Cartagena, the town is often considered the first free African community in the Americas. It holds a special place in history as a symbol of resistance against slavery and oppression.
During the colonial era, when the Spanish brought African slaves to the Americas, some slaves managed to escape from their captors and formed independent communities known as “palenques.” San Basilio de Palenque, founded by escaped slaves around the 16th century, became one such palenque.
The community developed a distinctive Afro-Colombian culture, preserving its African traditions, languages, and customs. Palenquero, an Afro-Hispanic creole language, is still spoken by the residents, making it a living testament to their heritage.
The inhabitants of San Basilio de Palenque have always shown a strong sense of identity and unity. They fiercely resisted Spanish attempts to re-enslave them, and their community became a safe haven for other escaped slaves seeking freedom.
In recognition of its cultural importance and historical significance, UNESCO declared San Basilio de Palenque a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005. This designation highlights the community’s efforts to preserve its unique heritage amidst the challenges of modernization and globalization.
Today, San Basilio de Palenque remains a vibrant and proud community, with residents committed to preserving their cultural heritage and sharing it with the world. Tourists and researchers visit the town to learn about its history, witness its vibrant traditions, and gain insight into the resilient spirit of its people. The town serves as a living reminder of the strength and determination of those who fought for freedom during a dark period in history.
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
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
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
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 – 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 4: Bogota – El Rincon Cajica Golf Course – Bogota
Service
Hotel pick-up: 08:30
El Rincon Golf Course
Tee time: 10:00
Then return to the hotel.
Day 5: 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 6: 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 7: Bogota
Half Day Architecture tour in Bogotá
Your bilingual guide will pick you up at your hotel to start your tour of approximately 5 hours. An alternative to discover Bogota and its architecture is to go through the most diverse neighborhoods of the city so in this tour we will talk about the details and characteristics of each style and era that define our city as a cosmopolitan and charming capital:
We begin with Teusaquillo with its urbanism inspired by the “Garden Cities” of the late nineteenth century in Europe, then passing through La Merced as a corner that evokes the elegance of the Tudor style of the 1930s and 1940s, followed by the modernist buildings of the International Center and ending the tour with a mixture of past and present in the Bavaria Park Complex, a place where you can enjoy a unique experience of the city.
Day 8: Bogota – Bogota Golf Course – Bogota
Service
Hotel pick-up: 08:30
Golf course in Bogota
Tee time: 09:30
Then return to the hotel.
Day 9: Bogota – 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 10: Cartagena – Karibana Golf Course – Cartagena
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
Karibana golf course
Tee time: 09:30
Then return to the hotel.
Day 11: Cartagena
Full Day City Tour and Mercado Bazurto
Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel to take you to the Bazurto market, a very busy place in Cartagena, a maze of colorful stalls, exotic foods and local handicrafts. This guided tour will take you to the heart of the market, where you will have the opportunity to meet the vendors, watch the artisans at work, taste local delicacies and if you prefer, enjoy a delicious typical Colombian lunch.
On the way back you will have a 3-hour tour of the city of Cartagena, visiting the residential neighborhoods that border the Bay of Cartagena. You will visit the Monastery of San Pedro Claver and its church, built in honor of the patron saint of slaves – Pedro Claver. The church is considered a national monument and, because of its history and charm, is one of the favorite churches for weddings in Cartagena.
You can also visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the most important work of military engineering in the New World. This fortress was built by the Spanish during the colonial era (from 1536) to protect the city from pirates and invaders. Today it is one of the 7 wonders of Colombia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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 – San Basilio de Palenque – Cartagena
Full Day Route Of Liberty
San Basilio de Palenque is a place where music, language, medicine and other daily traditions permanently remind us of the continent that five centuries ago became the main source of slaves in the world. It is known for its mark in the history of the eighteenth century, as it was the first black slave town in America to free itself from the Spanish crown.
55 km from Cartagena, in Palenque, one of the first free towns of the continent and cradle of important boxers like Antonio Cervantes ‘Kid Pambelé’. Learn about the Afro-Caribbean history, the past, present and future of Palenque and enjoy its typical food, guided by young people from the community.
Day 14: Cartagena – Campestre Golf Course – Cartagena
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
Campestre golf course
Tee time: 10:00
Then return to the hotel.
Day 15: Cartagena – Rosario Islands
Private Boat tour to Rosario Islands
The driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you to the pier. You will have a tour through the Rosario Islands, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea formed by 28 islands. The natural national park was created to protect one of the most important coral reefs on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. From Cartagena, it takes about 45 minutes by boat.
During the private boat excursion to the islands, the captain and an assistant will take care of you. Cold drinks such as champagne, beers and water, as well as delicious snacks, will be the perfect accompaniment to the views over the blue ocean. You will be able to discover the beaches and islands at your leisure or do other activities.
Day 16: Cartagena – Karibana Golf Course – Cartagena
Service
Pick-up: 08:30
Karibana golf course
Tee time: 09:30
Then return to the hotel.
Day 17: 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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