Embarking on a multi-week journey across South America, I found myself immersed in the vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable moments that Ecuador and Colombia offer. This journal captures the South American portion of my trip, sharing real-world experiences to inspire fellow travelers. From navigating the bustling streets of Quito to exploring the remote beauty of the Amazon, and from the colorful neighborhoods of Cartagena to the mountain views of Bogotá, each destination added its own magic. I hope these memories and insights serve as both a guide and an invitation to discover South America’s boundless adventure.
Table of Contents
How I Spent 1 week Traveling in Colombia and Ecuador
1. Quito, Ecuador
Arrival in Quito
Arriving in Quito late at night was an experience in itself. After the quiet and slightly eerie taxi ride through empty, dimly-lit streets, I finally arrived at Hotel Plaza Grande. Nestled right in the city’s historic heart, the hotel felt like stepping back in time, a perfect introduction to Quito’s old-world charm. Even the simplest activity, like climbing the stairs at the hotel, reminded me of Quito’s altitude, over 9,000 feet above sea level. I could feel my heart rate pick up—a reminder of being high in the Andes.
Day in Quito
Morning:
I started the day with breakfast at the hotel, savoring my first taste of Ecuadorian coffee. Outside, a political rally was underway in the plaza—a surprise glimpse into the city’s vibrant local life and energy.
Exploring the City:
Basilica del Voto Nacional: The climb up the basilica was thrilling, with narrow stairways and suspended wooden floors leading to breathtaking views of the city below. Halfway up, I passed locals lighting candles and praying in the dimly lit alcoves. There was a hushed reverence here, a quiet contrast to the expansive views at the top. This climb is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the view of Quito's spires stretching to the horizon was well worth it.
Mercado Central: Wandering through the market, I sampled Ecuadorian street foods I’d never tried before, like hornado (roast pork) and empanadas de viento (airy empanadas with cheese). At one stall, a smiling vendor insisted I try mote con chicharrón—a bowl of hominy corn topped with crispy fried pork. He beamed as I took a bite, nodding approvingly at my reaction. The flavors were unexpectedly complex—salty, smoky, and satisfying.
City Walk: The historic streets of Quito have a charm that invites exploration. Despite the heat, I meandered through shops and enjoyed the city’s rhythm before taking a well-earned break back at the hotel.
Evening: I ended the day at Café Mosaico, a rooftop spot with sweeping views of Quito as the sun set. Watching the city lights flicker to life as night fell was pure magic. As we waited for our food, a guitarist began playing traditional Andean music in the background. The soft tunes blended perfectly with the view, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and boundless.
2. Amazon Rainforest, Ecuador
Arrival and Journey to La Selva Lodge
A small, twin-engine prop plane took us to the gateway of the Amazon, a bit nerve-wracking but a thrilling start to the rainforest adventure. After landing, a scenic two-hour boat ride along the Napo River transported us deeper into the jungle, followed by a serene canoe ride across a lake to La Selva Lodge. The moment we entered the jungle, I was greeted by the rich, earthy smell of the rainforest. Birds called from unseen perches, and the distant rustle of leaves hinted at animals hiding just out of sight—a living, breathing world unlike anything I’d known.
Highlights of La Selva Lodge Stay
Atmosphere:
The intimate setting of the lodge—with only a few other guests—made it feel like we had the rainforest almost to ourselves. It was a quiet, undisturbed immersion into nature.
Meals:
Breakfast: A private breakfast spread awaited each morning, offering a calm start to the day with a view of the misty lake.
Dinner and Happy Hour: Dinner was served after an unforgettable happy hour, where I enjoyed some of the best drinks I’ve ever had, watching the sunset paint the sky with warm colors from the lodge’s deck.
Activities:
Jungle Hike: Our guide, a true expert in Ecuadorian flora and fauna, pointed out camouflaged creatures and rare plants. His knowledge was unmatched—he even mimicked the call of a Blue Annie bird, sparking an incredible “conversation” with one in the trees! Every step in the jungle revealed another layer of life—ferns the size of umbrellas, tangled vines that seemed to weave their own stories, and, if you looked closely, tiny frogs and insects hidden in plain sight.
Observation Tower: Climbing the canopy observation tower at dusk gave us an unbeatable view of the vast Amazon, stretching endlessly in every direction, under a deepening orange sky. Standing at the top, I felt a humbling sense of my own smallness. The Amazon stretched out beneath us, a seemingly endless sea of green, and as the sun began to dip, the jungle glowed with an orange light, as if it held secrets only the dusk could reveal.
Cultural Visit to Yasuni National Park: Meeting a local tribe and learning about their traditions was a humbling experience, as they shared their insights into life in the rainforest.
After two days of exploration, I reluctantly said goodbye to the Amazon, returning to Quito by canoe and riverboat, followed by the now-familiar small plane.
3. Cartagena, Colombia
Arrival in Cartagena
After a brief layover in Bogotá, we finally landed in Cartagena late at night. Eager to unwind, I opted for a low-key night, indulging in the hotel minibar before heading straight to bed.
Day in Cartagena
Breakfast:
I tried arepas for the first time—a Colombian staple that paired perfectly with the local coffee at the hotel restaurant.
Exploring the City:
City Walls (Las Murallas): Strolling along the city’s historic walls, I was enchanted by the vibrant colors of Cartagena’s streets, lined with flowers and lively street vendors. Walking along the city walls, I could feel the warm Caribbean breeze, carrying with it hints of salt and the distant strains of salsa music.
Plaza Santo Domingo: I couldn’t resist touching the famous “La Gorda Gertrudis” statue by Fernando Botero, a local ritual said to bring good luck.
La Cevichería: Lunch was at this popular ceviche spot, where the fresh, tangy flavors of the seafood were unforgettable—a true taste of Cartagena.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: Despite the midday heat, I explored this imposing fortress and its network of tunnels. The fort was a masterclass in defensive design, and I could almost imagine the battles it witnessed over the centuries.
Getsemaní Neighborhood: Known for its colorful street art and relaxed vibe, Getsemaní was a highlight. As we wandered the colorful streets, I came across a mural of Gabriel García Márquez, his gaze intense and contemplative. Around the corner, a dancer spun to the beat of drums, the rhythms resonating through the crowd, weaving everyone into Cartagena’s lively pulse.
After a packed day, I headed back to the hotel for a much-needed break.
4. Coralina Island, Rosario Islands
Arrival and Accommodation on Coralina Island
A boat ride whisked us away from Cartagena to Coralina Island, where I spent the first night in a modest room. However, a well-timed upgrade led us to an upper-level suite with a wrap-around patio over the water—a paradise of views and relaxation.
Highlights of Coralina Island Stay
Relaxation:
Evenings were spent on the balcony, sipping rum and playing cards as the sun sank into the horizon—a postcard-perfect experience. That first night on Coralina Island, everything felt still. I sat on the balcony listening to the rhythmic lap of the waves against the shore, watching the stars as they brightened against the inky sky, feeling completely disconnected from the world but fully present in the moment.
Water Activities:
Kayaking: Exploring the nearby islands by kayak was a highlight, and spotting one of Pablo Escobar’s old mansions added a touch of intrigue. As we paddled closer to Isla Grande, a sudden gust brought rougher waves, and we had to work hard to stay on course. Just as I started to tire, we rounded a bend to find the ruins of an old mansion, a reminder of the island’s storied past, weathered but still holding secrets.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: The underwater world was mesmerizing, even if my GoPro’s videos turned out blurry. Diving into the turquoise water was like entering another world. Schools of vibrant fish darted around coral formations, while a curious sea turtle glided past, unbothered by our presence.
Back in Cartagena, I spent my last night at the Hilton Cartagena, enjoying the rooftop pool with a view of the coastline—a perfect way to end my time in this coastal city.
5. Bogotá, Colombia
Arrival in Bogotá
After a long taxi ride through Bogotá’s infamous traffic, I reached the hotel, located conveniently near a cluster of popular restaurants.
Evening:
A casual dinner at a nearby eatery was the perfect way to settle in before a good night’s rest.
Day in Bogotá
Morning Surprise:
Waking up to a flooded bathroom wasn’t in the plan, but the hotel’s swift response got everything sorted while I headed out to explore.
Exploring Bogotá:
Plaza de Bolívar: Here, I watched locals feeding pigeons right from their hands, a strange but charming sight that felt uniquely Bogotano. The square buzzed with life—a gathering place for Bogotanos and a reminder of the city’s rich, layered history.
La Candelaria Neighborhood: Wandering through this historic area, I admired the bold street art and popped into a cozy café for a coffee break.
Monserrate Cable Car: The steep ride to the top of Monserrate rewarded me with sweeping views of Bogotá, even on a cloudy day. As the cable car ascended, Bogotá shrank below us, revealing its sprawling neighborhoods tucked into green mountainsides. I found myself holding my breath as we rose above the clouds, suspended between the city’s urban energy below and the tranquil stillness of the mountain.
I closed out the day with a farewell dinner at Harry Sasson, one of Bogotá’s finest restaurants. It was the perfect cap to an unforgettable South American journey, blending elegance with local flavor.
Conclusion
Reflecting on this trip, I am reminded of how truly diverse South America is, from Quito’s urban bustle to the Amazon’s serenity and Cartagena’s vibrant culture. For travelers seeking a mix of nature, culture, and adventure, Ecuador and Colombia offer endless possibilities. And while this journal covers only a portion of my travels, it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever. This South American Adventure really was one of my best trips.
Don’t hesitate to explore multiple destinations within South America. Each place has its own charm and unforgettable experiences awaiting discovery.
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