Holidays and 48-hour getaways in Colombia

Colombia boasts one of the highest numbers of public holidays in the world, offering the perfect opportunity to take a break, disconnect from routine, and discover new places without needing a long vacation. Holidays and 48-hour getaways in Colombia have become an ideal travel trend for those looking to make the most of weekends or long weekends with unique, affordable, and convenient experiences.

Below you will find a complete guide with the best destinations, tips, routes and activities to make the most of every national holiday.

You can consult the 2025 Holiday Calendar in Colombia to plan your getaways in advance.

Why 48-hour getaways are trending in Colombia

In recent years, Colombian tourism has changed. Today, travelers prioritize authentic, sustainable, and local experiences. According to data from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, 65% of Colombians prefer to take short trips of two to three days within the country, taking advantage of long weekends and holidays.

48-hour getaways fit perfectly into the modern lifestyle:

• They don't require large budgets.

• They allow you to discover new destinations without missing work or studies.

• They are ideal for trips as a couple, with family or with friends.

• They promote local tourism and the regional economy.

Platforms like Booking or Airbnb show a steady increase in weekend bookings in destinations near Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Cartagena, and Bucaramanga.

Calendar of ideal holidays for getaways in 2025

Before choosing your destination, it's essential to know which long weekends or holidays you can take advantage of. Some of the most anticipated on the 2025 Holiday Calendar in Colombia are:

Each of these holidays provides the perfect opportunity to plan a short 48-hour getaway , exploring destinations that blend nature, culture, and gastronomy.

Best destinations for 48-hour getaways in Colombia

1. Villa de Leyva – Boyacá

A timeless destination. Its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and tranquil atmosphere make it ideal for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
To do:

• Take a stroll through the Plaza Mayor, one of the largest in Latin America.

• Visit the Paleontological Museum and the Candelaria Desert.

• Taste local wines at the Ain Karim vineyard.

Tip: Book accommodation with mountain views and enjoy the starry sky, one of the clearest in the country.

2. Guatapé – Antioquia

Just two hours from Medellín, this colorful town is perfect for a weekend getaway.
To do:

• Climb the 740 steps of the Rock of Guatapé.

• Walk along the boardwalk and take a boat trip on the reservoir.

• Walk among the facades decorated with typical plinths.

Ideal for: couples, photographers and adventurers.

3. Salento and the Cocora Valley – Quindío

Located in the heart of the Coffee Region, it's an experience that combines nature, coffee, and the local culture.
To do:

• Hike through the Cocora Valley and its giant wax palms.

• Tour of coffee farms.

• Enjoy the bohemian atmosphere of Salento.

Tip: Visit the region during a long weekend in the off-season to avoid crowds.

4. San Gil – Santander

The adventure tourism capital of Colombia. Perfect for those seeking adrenaline in a short amount of time.
To do:

• Rafting on the Fonce River.

• Canyoning and paragliding over the Chicamocha canyon.

• Taste the traditional big-bottomed ant.

Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days with arrival on Friday night.

5. Mompox – Bolívar

A little-explored colonial treasure on the banks of the Magdalena River.
To do:

• Explore the historic center, declared a World Heritage Site.

• Visit ancient churches and filigree workshops.

• Enjoy the traditional cuisine of Mompox.

Perfect for: lovers of history and tranquility.

6. Garden – Antioquia

One of the most charming towns in southwestern Antioquia.
To do:

• Visit the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.

• Climb to the Cristo Rey viewpoint.

• Enjoy coffee in the main square while observing local life.

Recommendation: Combine this getaway with a short coffee tour.

7. Santa Marta and Tayrona

For those who live on the Caribbean Coast, a weekend in Tayrona Park is an unforgettable natural escape.
To do:

• Hike to Cabo San Juan.

• Visit Taganga and Playa Grande.

• Swim or relax in crystal-clear bays.

Tip: Book in advance, as the park has limited spaces.

48-hour routes from major cities

From Bogotá

• Villa de Leyva (3 h)

• Guaduas (2 h)

• Tobia (2 hours, extreme sports)

• Melgar (2 hours, rest and swimming pools)

From Medellín

• Guatapé (2 h)

• Garden (3 h)

• Santa Fe de Antioquia (1.5 h)

From Cali

• Lake Calima (2 h)

• Buga (1.5 h)

• Salento (3.5 h)

These short routes allow you to enjoy a complete 48-hour trip , including transfers, rest and activities.

Tips for making the most of your holiday getaways

1. Plan ahead.
   Check the holiday calendar in the Colombia Calendar and make your reservations early.

2. Travel light.
   Bring only the essentials to optimize your enjoyment time.

3. Choose nearby destinations.
   48-hour getaways work best when the journey does not exceed 4 hours by road.

4. Prioritize local experiences.
   Shop at markets, eat at traditional restaurants, and support sustainable tourism.

5. Disconnect from your routine.
   The purpose of these trips is to rest, not to work in another environment.

Sustainable and responsible getaways

Responsible tourism is increasingly important. If you decide to take a 48-hour break, try to:

• Do not leave trash in natural destinations.

• Hire certified local guides.

• Avoid using single-use plastics.

• Respect the customs and traditions of each region.

Every little gesture helps to preserve the country's natural and cultural wealth.

You can learn more about sustainable tourism in Colombia in our article about eco-friendly destinations to travel to in 2025 .

Emerging destinations for short breaks

Besides the classics, there are lesser-known places that are gaining popularity:

• San Carlos (Antioquia): waterfalls and natural pools.

• The Tablón de Gómez (Nariño): petroglyphs and nature.

• La Chorrera (Cundinamarca): the highest waterfall in Colombia.

• Palomino (Guajira): river, sea and mountain in one place.

These emerging destinations are perfect for those seeking tranquility and unique landscapes without crowds.