Arrive in Armenia, in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, Hacienda Bambusa or similar accommodation. Take the rest of the day to settle in and relax. The natural beauty of the region, characterized by lush green landscapes and coffee plantations, is the perfect backdrop to begin your journey. If time permits, take a stroll around the property or enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you prepare for the experiences to come.
Colombian Discovery: Coffee, Culture, and Caribbean Charm
Colombia
13 Days
Moderate/Medium
All ages
Explore Colombia’s vibrant coffee culture, innovative cities, and Caribbean coastal charm on this comprehensive tour. From the lush Coffee Region to the revitalized streets of Medellin, the colonial beauty of Barichara, and the turquoise waters of Cartagena, experience a diverse range of landscapes and cultural experiences. Engage with local communities, explore historical landmarks, and take on thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting, and rappelling.
Highlights
- Coffee Farm Experience: Learn about coffee cultivation and engage with local farmers in Pijao.
- Medellin’s Transformation: Visit Comuna 13 and witness Medellin’s inspiring urban renewal.
- Santander Adventures: Experience rappelling and white-water rafting in the stunning landscapes of Santander.
- Tayrona and Sierra Nevada: Connect with indigenous communities and explore natural beauty.
- Cartagena’s Rich Heritage: Discover the cultural and historical landmarks of the walled city and Getsemaní.
Includes
- Hotels and lodging with daily breakfast according to price.
- Meals as detailed in your itinerary (drinks are generally not included).
- Ticket price for the places visited (museums, etc).
- Taxes (when applicable).
- All transfers and tours are done privately.
- 24/7 emergency cell phone attended by English-speaking staff.
- Permanent coordination.
- Monitoring of domestic flights and web check-in service on the day before each flight.
Not Included
- Personal expenses.
- Tips.
- Personal insurance.
- Visa expenses.
- International flights.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Armenia - Coffee Region
Day 2 : Explore The Coffee Region - Pijao
Embark on a guided tour of Pijao, a small village nestled in the Andes. Discover the coffee culture firsthand as you visit with Don Leo, a local coffee farmer, who will share stories about his life and coffee production. Explore the village’s charming homes and hidden gardens, and interact with locals to learn about the community’s traditions. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. This immersive experience offers a deep connection to Colombia’s coffee heritage and its role in local life.
Breakfast
Day 3 : Coffee Region To Medellin
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Medellin. Upon arrival, explore El Poblado, Medellin’s most modern and vibrant neighborhood. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s rapid growth and transformation. Later, try your hand at Tejo, a traditional Colombian sport that involves throwing a metal disc at a target filled with gunpowder for a unique and exhilarating experience. Enjoy an evening at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s activities and soaking up Medellin’s vibrant energy.
Breakfast
Day 4 : Medellin City Tour & Visit To Comuna 13
Spend the day exploring Medellin, known as the “City of Eternal Spring”. Visit Botero Square, home to Fernando Botero’s sculptures, and learn about the city’s history and cultural evolution. Take the cable car to Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous areas in Medellin, but now a symbol of resilience and transformation. Marvel at the colorful graffiti and hear stories of the community’s revitalization from a local guide. This tour offers a glimpse into Medellin’s dynamic past and its inspiring journey to recovery.
Breakfast
Day 5 : Guatapé And La Piedra Del Peñol
Venture outside of Medellin to the picturesque town of Guatapé. Climb the 649 steps of La Piedra del Peñol for a panoramic view of the surrounding lakes and islands. Explore the lively, colorful streets of the town and learn about its history. Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch before taking a scenic boat ride on the lake. Return to Medellin for a relaxing evening at your hotel after a day filled with breathtaking views and cultural insights.
Breakfast
Day 6 : Medellin To Barichara
Transfer from Medellin to Barichara, a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. Spend the evening at Casa Yahri or similar accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around town and soak up the atmosphere of this tranquil destination, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Colombia.
Breakfast
Day 7 : Hike From Barichara To Guane
Start the day with a hike along the historic Camino Real trail to the village of Guane. This ancient trade route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the opportunity to observe native flora and fauna. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local farm and learn about the history and culture of the region from your guide. Return to Barichara for a relaxing evening.
Day 8 : Adventure Day In Santander - Rappeling And Rafting
Get ready for an adventurous day in the Santander region. Start with a hike to the top of the Juan Curí Waterfall, where you will rappel 70 meters (230 feet) into the middle of the breathtaking cascade. Then experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Fonce River, navigating Class II and III rapids. This day is perfect for thrill seekers looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to experience Colombia’s natural wonders.
Breakfast
Day 9 : Transfer To Tayrona National Park
Depart Barichara and fly to Santa Marta. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel near the Tayrona National Park. This area is known for its lush jungle, pristine beaches and unique biodiversity. Spend the evening at your lodge, Senda Watapuy or a similar option, and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Breakfast
Day 10 : Tayrona National Park & Don Diego River Rafting
Visit the indigenous Katanzama community in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and learn about their traditions and way of life. Enjoy a jungle hike and participate in a cultural exchange with the Arhuaco people. Later, take a tubing trip down the Don Diego River and float peacefully through the lush surroundings to the Caribbean Sea. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Breakfast / Lunch
Day 11 : Transfer To Cartagena
Travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its colonial architecture and rich history. Check into Casa San Agustin or a similar hotel and spend the evening exploring Cartagena’s vibrant nightlife or relaxing at your hotel.
Breakfast
Day 12 : Cartagena - Getsemaní And Walled City Tour
Explore the trendy Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its street art, local culture, and historical significance in Colombia’s independence movement. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the walled city, visiting key landmarks such as the Clock Tower, Plaza de San Pedro Claver, and the colorful streets of the historic center. End the day with sunset drinks at Café del Mar overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Breakfast
Day 13 : Depart Cartagena
Enjoy your last morning in Cartagena before transferring to the airport for your flight home or onward journey. Take time to reflect on the diverse experiences you’ve had, from coffee farms and vibrant cities to ancient communities and Caribbean charm.
Breakfast
Travel Tips
- Pack versatile clothing for various climates and activities.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for easier communication with locals.
- Bring sun protection and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Weather Preparedness
Warm, tropical weather with occasional rain. Light layers are useful for early mornings and cooler evenings.
Fitness Requirements
Moderate fitness is required for hiking and snorkeling activities.
Accommodation
Casa Blanca
Book Now
From
USD 7747,00
pp
FAQs
What is the best option for wildlife enthusiasts?
Española Island offers the best opportunity to see a variety of bird species and marine life.
How long is the 360º tour of San Cristobal?
It takes approximately a full day, with multiple stops for snorkeling and beach exploration.
Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the calm waters of Kicker Rock and Gardner Bay are great for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Additional Information
Money and change:
The official currency in Colombia is the “Colombian pesos” US$ 1 = COP $4.150 approx.
You can get pesos easily from an ATM: for safety reasons, we recommend going to an ATM inside a mall or a bank, please avoid using street machines.
Most of the shops and restaurants will take credit cards.
USD are not commonly accepted.
Tipping in restaurants:
Most of the time, tips are already included in your check, which is usually around 10%. But it is not mandatory and clients can refuse to include it. In some restaurants, the waiter will ask if is ok to include the tip (“el servicio”) in the check. You might refuse or not. Colombians will leave an extra tip in cash. That cash will go directly to the waiter. It is typically not extravagant, Between $2,000 – $5,000 Colombian pesos are always appreciated.
Tipping guides, drivers and taxis:
This is the one with the most room for maneuver. Tipping your tour guide is customary, however the amount is completely discretionary. The taxi driver does not expect a tip as this is not usual in Colombia.
Safety:
While the security situation in general is fine, we recommend acting prudently on the streets, just as you would in any other city. For example:
- Do not send text messages from your cell phone while walking through Bogotá.
- Never take a taxi on the street. Always ask the hotel or restaurant to call you a cab.
- Do not carry your passport during the tours: use a copy and leave the original in the hotel safe.