Colombian Discovery: Coffee, Culture, and Caribbean Charm

El Poblado | Medellin | Colombia

Colombia is a destination that beats through the rhythm of its landscape variety, its mountains and valleys, the water of the rivers flowing through, the color of the birds crossing the skies, the waves of the Caribbean that caress its beaches, the Pacific Sea visited by whales or through its plains that precede the dense Amazon.

Colombia is the mouth-opener of South America. A country willing to be discovered, that has just begun to seduce travelers and adapt its infrastructure to welcome those who come to learn about the root and inspiration of García Marquez’s magical realism.

It is a country that makes visitors vibrate with the emotion of its people, with the warmth of their smile, the multiple colors of its fruits and the aroma of its cuisine.

If at the end of your visit, you did not dance salsa and you did not eat granadilla, you were not in Colombia!

Day 1 : Armenia / Coffe Region

PM – Zona cafetera – Armenia – Arrival transfer with meet & greet

Upon arrival in Medellin, your driver will be waiting for you in the airport arrivals hall.

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Overnight at Hacienda Bambusa or Similar

Day 2 : Pijao / Coffe Region

9:00 AM – Zona Cafetera – Visit of Pijao

Visit to Pijao a small village in the Andes mountains is located at the foot of the Andes. It is the inhabitants’ stories that give this place its magic. A local guide will accompany you on a tour to Pijao where you will meet Don Leo, an area coffee farmer who will be able to tell you about his life story and the origins of the coffee that he produces. Pijao houses are an important part of the tour. They hide beautiful gardens with hydrangeas. Enjoy a warm drink and a chat with a local while enjoying the aromas of the plants in their garden. You will discover that coffee is an important part of the culture in Colombia. You can enjoy the Pijao plantations after sharing your experiences with these lovely people.

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Overnight at Hacienda Bambusa or Similar

People of Pijao | Coffe Region | Colombia

Day 3 : Coffe Region / Medellin

AM – Coffe Region – Pereira – Departure transfer

Your Spanish speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel for your 2 hours transfer to the airport.
We are glad you were here.

Included:

– Preferential seats
– 1 piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 10kg
– 1 Personal item (can be a purse, laptop bag or baby bag)
– 1 checked luggage with a maximum weight of 23kg each
Changes and refund possible with some cost

PM – Medellin – Arrival transfer with guide from JMC airport

Welcome to Medellin!

Arriving at the airport, please collect your luggage and exit to the arrival hall.

Your guide will be waiting for you outside with a sign with your name. After a 45 min transfer you will arrive at your hotel (under
normal traffic conditions).

Medellin – Walking tour through el Poblado with your guide.

To get to know the city better, we invite you today to spend 3 hours walking around the neighborhood of “El Poblado”. El Poblado, the city’s most modern district, reflects the city’s rapid growth. You will end the tour by heading to a “tejo field”. It is a prehispanic game that involves hitting a metal “bocin” ring with a “tejo”. The distance to the ring is about 22mts. The game is made more exciting by the inclusion of gunpowder in small triangular packets, called “mechas”.

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Overnight at El Cielo or similar

El Poblado | Medellin | Colombia

Photo: MarcPo

Day 4 : Medellin

AM – Medellin – Visit of Medellin (8h) + graffiti expert in comuna 13

Pick up from your Hotel Lobby 09:oo am

Medellin, the “City of Eternal Spring”, is the most innovative Latin American city today. In the recent past, Medellin was closely linked to Pablo Escobar’s life and violent gang wars.

Medellin has undergone some dramatic changes in the past twenty years. Medellin was transformed from the world’s most dangerous city into a modern urban example through an innovative development program.

You will visit the Botero Square today to see an exhibition by the Colombian artist Fernando Botero whose sculptures are now an icon for the city.

Afternoon, you can take the Metro Cable to comuna 13 which was once notorious for gang violence. The cable car was built to connect people living in the suburbs of Medellin with metro medellin. The unique Electric Escalators give visitors an insight into the daily lives of people living in the district. The graffiti on the walls tells the story of the inhabitants.

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Overnight at El Cielo or similar

Cable Car | Medellin | Colombia

Photo: jkraft5

Day 5 : Medellin / Piedra Del Peñol / Guatape

AM – Medellin – Classic Guatape + Peñol + lunch

It’s time to get out of the city and into the lush greenery. Ascend 649 steps and enjoy a breathtaking view of 200m (650ft) from the top La Piedra de Guatape. Above the Penol-Guatape Dam, and Guatape Lake. You can enjoy the view while you eat and drink a cold beverage at the little food stands on the top of the rock. Learn about the history and the two cities that claimed La Piedra. As you walk down the cobblestone streets of Guatape, discover its picturesque town with its colorful houses. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a restaurant selected by your guide.

Location: East

Duration: 8 hours

Includes private transportation, bilingual guide hand-picked, entrance fee for Penol, boat trip, Guatape Tour and lunch.

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Overnight at El Cielo or similar

Guatape | Colombia

Photo: iFerol

Day 6 : Medellin / Barichara

AM – Medellin – Departure transfer with spanish speaking driver (no guide) to EOH

Your driver will pick you up at your hotel for your 15 minutes transfer to the airport (under normal traffic conditions), on time to check in for your domestic flight.

PM – Transfer from San Gil to Barichara with meet & greet

Your guide will pick you up and you will have a 40 minutes transfer.

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Overnight at Casa Yahri  or similar

Barichara | Santander | Colombia

Photo: OSTILL

Day 7 : Barichara / Santander

9:00 AM – Santander – Hike to guane with lunch

 What could be better than starting the day with a stroll along an ancient commercial route that was used by indigenous peoples? This road was used by the indigenous people to transport agricultural products to and from the Magdalena River. It connects 5 other municipalities. The road was reconstructed by a German Engineer and has remained an important network in the transportation and trading of tobacco, corn, cotton and quinoa. This tour provides incredible views of the area and nature lovers can enjoy the native birds and plants.

You will be served lunch at a local farm on the way back.

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Overnight at Casa Yahri  or similar

Hike to Guane | Colombia

Photo: Irina Brester

Day 8 : Barichara / Santander

9:00 AM – Santander – Trek to Juan Curí, rappel and rafting

Juan Curi has high-altitude waterfalls that are famous. This activity is a high-adrenaline experience, ideal for those who are adventurous or want to let go of their fears. It is a challenging hike to reach the top of the falls. When you reach the top, the most thrilling part is that, using ropes and special equipment, you can descend 70 meters (230 feet), down the waterfall. A team of experts and professionals will assist you throughout the entire process.

Are you ready to experience a huge adrenaline rush after that? It’s not necessary to be a pro. This adventure will have you navigating the Fonce River for two hours on a raft. This river has currents between level 2 and 3. It will be a fun ride with some calm waters and others that are a little turbulent. There will be some medium waves, and perfect rapids for you to feel the excitement of life.

Take extra clothes for the return trip, including t-shirts with sleeves that cover your entire arm and shoes that are comfortable but can get wet. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen.

Length: 6 hours

Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

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Overnight at Casa Yahri  or similar

Juan Curi Waterfall | Santander | Colombia

Photo: Humberto Osorio

Day 9 : Santander / Tayrona

AM – Santander – Departure transfer

Your Spanish speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel for your 4 hours transfer to the airport.
We are glad you were here.

Included:

– Preferential seats
– 1 piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 10kg
– 1 Personal item (can be a purse, laptop bag or baby bag)
– 1 checked luggage with a maximum weight of 23kg each
Changes and refund possible with some cost

PM – Santa Marta – Arrival transfer with meet & greet

Santa Marta, welcome to you! When you arrive at the airport, take your luggage out of the baggage claim area and enter the arrivals hall. You will find your guide outside holding a sign that says “Your Name”. You will reach your hotel after a 40 minute transfer.

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Overnight at Senda Watapuy

Day 10 : Don Diego River/ Sierra Nevada De Santa Marta

10:00 AM – Santa Marta, Katanzama Native Community + 1h Hiking + Don Diego River Tubbing

“Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta”, is one of Colombia’s few remaining indigenous regions.

Katanzama, one of these communities, is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. We hike to the community after a short drive. We learn about the Arhuacos’ customs and cooking, and visit their houses and community centers. You will be able to ask any questions you want during this time. Remember that at first they will be shy, so you’ll need to break the ice and establish trust. The visit continues with a picnic and a view of a beautiful sea. We can also learn how to weave traditional backpacks. You can also ask for voluntary donations, such as school kits, toiletries or work tools like shovels, machetes, axes and ax.

You will then tubbing at Rio Don Diego for approximately 90 minutes, from the starting point to the beach. You will then head back boating and find your vehicle to head back to your accommodation.

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Overnight at Senda Watapuy or similar

Don diego River | Colombia

Photo: virtualphoto

Day 11 : Santa Marta / Cartagena

AM – Santa Marta – Transfer without guide

Private transfer from Santa Marta hotel to Cartagena hotel.

Length: 5 hours

B/-/-

Overnight at Casa San Agustin or similar

Day 12 : Cartagena

Cartagena – Behind the doors of Getsemaní (3h / pick up at 09:00 am)

Getsemani is one of the most trendy neighborhoods in the city. Cartagena was the first city in Gran Colombia to be free. The independence revolution started here. The tour lasts 3 hours. Your guide will explain why this neighborhood was named one of the coolest in the world. This tour will give you the chance to meet the locals. Luis, the leader of this community, is waiting to show you around his home and let you immerse yourself in their culture. Discover the different Cartageneros who live in Getsemani. You will be amazed by their work in their homes.

Getsemani | Cartagena | Colombia

Cartagena – Classic walking tour walled city + sunset drinks at Café del Mar (3 h/ pick up at 15:00 pm)

This tour allows you to familiarize yourself with the historic center of Cartagena within the walls which protected it from pirate invasions and were declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 1984. We will show you the colonial architecture and colorful streets of the historic walled city. The most popular attractions will be seen, including the Clock Tower, Parque de Bolivar and Plaza de San Pedro Claver. You’ll also see the Santo Domingo, San Diego, Plaza Fernandez Madrid and Plaza Fernandez Madrid. The guide will explain the history of Cartagena and share legends, pirates, and interesting facts around every corner. After the tour, you can relax with a drink at the Cafe del Mar Restaurant and watch the sunset. This is a bar-restaurant on the Bastion Santo Domingo, with a great view of the Caribbean and live music. The tour will last approximately three hours. Your guide will pay close attention to your questions, concerns, and interests to ensure that you have a pleasant time.

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Overnight at Casa San Agustin or similar

Historic Centre | Cartagena | Colombia

Day 13 : Cartagena Out

PM – Transfer out Cartagena

The driver will pick you up in plenty of time for your flight.

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End of services


Highlights

  • Coffee Farm Experience in Pijao
  • Medellin’s Urban Renewal Tour
  • Panoramic Views from La Piedra de Guatapé
  • Adventure in Santander: Waterfalls, Rappelling, Rafting
  • Cultural Exploration of Cartagena: Getsemaní and Walled City Tour

Travel Tips

Absolutely, here are some travel tips tailored to your itinerary:

  1. Pack Light and Smart: Since you’ll be moving between different destinations, packing light and smart is essential. Bring versatile clothing suitable for various activities and climates. Consider packing items that can be easily layered to accommodate changes in temperature.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Colombia can have varying climates, so it’s important to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, particularly in warmer regions like Santa Marta and Cartagena.
  3. Comfortable Footwear: With activities such as hiking, walking tours, and exploring towns, comfortable footwear is a must. Bring sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots that you’ve broken in beforehand to prevent blisters and discomfort.
  4. Sun Protection: Colombia’s proximity to the equator means strong sun exposure, especially in coastal areas like Santa Marta and Cartagena. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
  5. Rain Gear: While September generally sees less rain in some regions, it’s still wise to pack a compact umbrella or a lightweight, waterproof jacket. This will come in handy for unexpected showers, especially in places like the Zona Cafetera and Medellin.
  6. Local Currency and Cash: Have some Colombian pesos on hand for small purchases, tips, and transportation fares. While credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, having cash is useful for transactions in local markets and smaller establishments.
  7. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing some basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and interaction with locals. Simple greetings and phrases like “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) can go a long way.
  8. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances. This provides peace of mind during your journey, especially when engaging in adventurous activities.
  9. Respect Local Customs and Culture: Colombia is rich in culture and traditions. Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photos of people. Engage with locals respectfully and be open to learning about their way of life.
  10. Stay Flexible: While having an itinerary is great for planning, be open to unexpected experiences and changes. Delays or last-minute adjustments can happen, so maintain a flexible mindset and embrace the adventure!

By following these travel tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your journey through Colombia and create unforgettable memories along the way.

Accomodation

  • 2 nights at Hacienda Bambusa or similar, Armenia
  • 3 nights at El Cielo Hotel or similar, Medellin
  • 3 noches at Casa Yahri or similar, Santander
  • 2 nights at Senda Watapuy or similar, Santa Martha
  • 2 nights at San Agustin or similar, Cartagena

Weather Preparedness

Understanding the weather patterns and being prepared for various conditions is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here’s a breakdown of weather considerations for each destination on your itinerary:

  1. Zona Cafetera (Armenia):
    • September is generally warm with average temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) to 25°C (77°F).
    • Expect occasional rain showers, as this region can experience rain throughout the year.
    • Pack lightweight, breathable clothing along with a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
  2. Medellin:
    • September in Medellin sees average temperatures between 16°C (61°F) and 27°C (81°F).
    • It’s the end of the dry season, so rainfall is less frequent but still possible.
    • Bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings, as well as sunscreen and sunglasses for sun protection during the day.
  3. Barichara:
    • Barichara enjoys a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 27°C (81°F) in September.
    • Rainfall is minimal during this time, but it’s always good to be prepared for unexpected showers.
    • Light clothing suitable for warm weather and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  4. Santa Marta:
    • September marks the end of the wet season in Santa Marta, with temperatures averaging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F).
    • Expect high humidity and occasional rain showers, especially in the afternoons.
    • Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
  5. Cartagena:
    • Cartagena experiences hot and humid weather in September, with temperatures ranging from 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (88°F).
    • Rainfall is less frequent compared to earlier months, but short, intense showers are still possible.
    • Light, airy clothing is essential, along with sun protection and plenty of hydration.
  6. General Tips:
    • Regardless of the destination, it’s advisable to carry a small travel umbrella or a lightweight, packable rain jacket.
    • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in warmer climates.
    • Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
    • Consider packing insect repellent, especially for destinations with tropical climates like Santa Marta.

By staying informed about the weather conditions and packing accordingly, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy each destination on your itinerary to the fullest.

Fitness Requirements

  1. Cardiovascular Training: Many activities involve walking, hiking, and active exploration. To prepare, try to include regular hikes or walks in your workout routine. You can gradually increase the intensity and duration to improve your cardiovascular endurance.
  2. Strength Training: Some activities like rappelling and rafting will require muscular strength and endurance. Incorporate strength training exercises such as weightlifting, push-ups, and squats to strengthen your major muscles and improve your ability to tackle these physical challenges.
  3. Flexibility and Mobility: Trekking and outdoor activities can put strain on your muscles and joints. Dedicate time to regular stretching to improve your flexibility and mobility. Yoga and dynamic stretching can be especially helpful.
  4. Specific Activity Preparation: If there are specific activities you’re concerned about, like rappelling or rafting, consider specific training for these activities. For example, you could look for a local rappelling course to practice before your trip.
  5. Rest and Recovery: Don’t forget the importance of rest and recovery. Make sure to get enough sleep each night and listen to your body during the trip. If you feel fatigued or sore, don’t hesitate to take a rest day or reduce the intensity of your activities.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or personal trainer before making significant changes to your exercise routine, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Enjoy your trip and all the exciting adventures that await you!

Duration
13 Days
Difficulty
Moderate/Medium
Age
All ages

Included

Before the trip:

  • Experienced senior travel designer on the trip planning process.
  • Match with hand-selected guides.
  • Restaurant reservations on request.
  • Preparation of detailed travel documents.

During the trip:

  • 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.
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.