Colombia Odyssey: Coffee, Culture, and Coastal Marvels - Tour

Discover an exciting 13-day adventure through Colombia! From the lush coffee region to vibrant Medellín, the impressive Piedra del Peñol in Guatapé, and charming Barichara in Santander, explore the natural wonders of Tayrona and the Don Diego River, culminating in historic Cartagena. Explore the natural wonders of Tayrona and the Don Diego River, culminating in historic Cartagena, and get ready for an unforgettable experience full of culture, history and spectacular scenery in Colombia!

13 Day Colombia Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Armenia - Coffee Region

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.

Day 2: Discover the Coffee Region - Pijao

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3: From the Coffee Region to Medellin

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4: Medellin City Tour & Visit to Comuna 13

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5: Guatapé and La Piedra del Peñol

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6: Medellin to Barichara

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7: Hike from Barichara to Guane

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.

Day 8: Adventure in Santander - Rappelling and Rafting

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9: Transfer to Tayrona National Park

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.

 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10: Tayrona National Park & Don Diego River Rafting

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch

Day 11: Transfer to Cartagena

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.

 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12: Cartagena - Getsemaní and Walled City Tour

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 13: Departure from Cartagena

Savor your final morning in Cartagena before transferring to the airport for your flight home or onward journey. Reflect on the rich and diverse experiences you’ve enjoyed, from the coffee farms and vibrant cities to the ancient communities and Caribbean charm.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Graffiti | Medellin | Colombia
Getsemani - Cartagena - Colombia
+1
Pijao | The Coffe Region | Colombia
 Historic Centre | Cartagena | Colombia

13 Day Colombia Itinerary 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.

13 Day Colombia Itinerary Does not Include

  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips
  • Personal Insurance
  • Visa expenses.
  • Flights to international destinations.

13 Day Colombia Itinerary Highlights

  • Coffee Farm Immersion: Discover the process of coffee cultivation while connecting with local farmers in Pijao.
  • Medellin’s Renewal Journey: Explore Comuna 13 and witness the remarkable transformation of this once-troubled area.
  • Thrills in Santander: Enjoy adrenaline-filled activities like rappelling and white-water rafting amidst Santander’s breathtaking scenery.
  • Tayrona and Sierra Nevada Exploration: Engage with indigenous communities and immerse yourself in the region's stunning natural landscapes.
  • Cartagena’s Cultural Legacy: Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of the walled city and the artistic Getsemaní neighborhood.

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.

Fitness Requirements

A moderate level of fitness is recommended for activities such as hiking and snorkeling.

Weather Preparedness

Enjoy warm, tropical weather with occasional rain showers. Light layers are ideal for cooler mornings and evenings.

Accomodation

Casa Blanca

Colombia 13 Days
From USD 7747,00 pp
Tags

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.

Frecuently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?

Yes, the calm waters of Kicker Rock and Gardner Bay are great for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

How long is the 360º tour of San Cristobal?

It takes approximately a full day, with multiple stops for snorkeling and beach exploration.

What is the best option for wildlife enthusiasts?

Española Island offers the best opportunity to see a variety of bird species and marine life.

Why travel with us?

Galapagos experienceOver 11 years of experience
Galapagos travel specialistsGalapagos Specialists
Galapagos packagesSet and Tailor-made packages
Galapagos cruisesThe best last-minute cruise deals
Galapagos trips24/7 Customer service during your trip
Galapagos experienceMulti-Destination packages

Similar Itineraries

Discover Colombia: Urban Marvels to Natural Wonders
From USD 6216,00 pp
Colombia
10 Days
Discover Colombia: Urban Marvels To Natural Wonders