Arrive in Armenia, the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. Upon your arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel, such as Hacienda Bambusa or a similar accommodation. Spend the rest of the day settling in and relaxing. The lush green landscapes and coffee plantations of this region provide a serene backdrop to begin your journey. If time allows, take a leisurely walk around the property or enjoy the tranquil surroundings in preparation for the adventures ahead.
Embark on a guided tour of Pijao, a quaint village nestled in the Andes. Immerse yourself in the coffee culture by visiting Don Leo, a local coffee farmer, who will share his stories and insights into coffee production. Stroll through the charming village, exploring its picturesque homes and hidden gardens, while engaging with locals to learn about their traditions. Savor a freshly brewed cup of coffee and soak in the serene atmosphere. This immersive experience provides a profound connection to Colombia’s coffee heritage and its significance to the local community.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Medellin. On arrival, explore El Poblado, Medellin’s vibrant and modern neighborhood, with a guided walking tour that delves into the city’s rapid growth and transformation. Later, try your hand at Tejo, a traditional Colombian sport involving a metal disc and a target filled with gunpowder for an exhilarating experience. Reflect on the day's activities as you enjoy the energy of Medellin during a relaxing evening at your hotel.
Spend the day discovering Medellin, also known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” Visit Botero Square, showcasing sculptures by Fernando Botero, and learn about the city’s history and cultural evolution. Take a cable car ride to Comuna 13, once one of Medellin’s most dangerous areas, now a beacon of resilience and transformation. Admire the colorful street art and hear firsthand stories about the community’s revitalization from a local guide. This tour offers a unique glimpse into Medellin’s complex past and inspiring recovery.
Take a day trip to the charming town of Guatapé, known for its colorful streets and vibrant culture. Climb the 649 steps of La Piedra del Peñol for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and islands. Explore the lively streets of Guatapé and learn about the town’s history before enjoying a traditional Colombian lunch. Conclude the day with a scenic boat ride on the lake, then return to Medellin for a restful evening at your hotel.
Travel from Medellin to Barichara, a picturesque colonial town celebrated for its cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved architecture. Check into accommodations like Casa Yahri or a similar venue. Spend the evening exploring the tranquil town, often regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in Colombia, and soaking up its serene ambiance.
Begin your day with a hike along the historic Camino Real trail to the village of Guane. This ancient path offers stunning views of the countryside and a chance to observe native flora and fauna. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local farm while learning about the region’s culture and history from your guide. Return to Barichara for a peaceful evening.
Experience an adventurous day in Santander, starting with a hike to the Juan Curí Waterfall. Rappel 70 meters (230 feet) into the waterfall for a thrilling experience, followed by whitewater rafting on the Fonce River, navigating exciting Class II and III rapids. This day is perfect for adrenaline seekers eager to explore Colombia’s natural wonders.
Leave Barichara and fly to Santa Marta, then transfer to your lodge near Tayrona National Park, such as Senda Watapuy or similar. Known for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and incredible biodiversity, the area offers a peaceful setting to unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Visit the indigenous Katanzama community in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to learn about their culture and traditions. Embark on a jungle hike and engage in a cultural exchange with the Arhuaco people. Later, float down the Don Diego River on a tubing trip, enjoying the serene surroundings as you drift toward the Caribbean Sea. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
Travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage City celebrated for its colonial charm and vibrant history. Check into accommodations like Casa San Agustin or similar and spend the evening exploring Cartagena’s lively nightlife or unwinding at your hotel.
Explore the artistic Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art and cultural significance in Colombia’s independence movement. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the walled city, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Clock Tower, Plaza de San Pedro Claver, and the historic center’s colorful streets. Conclude the day with sunset drinks at Café del Mar, overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for activities such as hiking and snorkeling.
Casa Blanca
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:
Yes, the calm waters of Kicker Rock and Gardner Bay are great for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
It takes approximately a full day, with multiple stops for snorkeling and beach exploration.
Española Island offers the best opportunity to see a variety of bird species and marine life.