Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

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Authentic Colombia

8 Days Starting in Bogotá, Colombia and ending in Medellin, Colombia

Visiting: Bogotá, La Concordia, Tobia, Honda, Mariquita-Honda, Cordillera Central, Circasia, Cocora Valley, Salento, Finca La Romelia, Medellín

Tour operator:

Culture Trip

Tour code:

COA

Recommended For:

Couples, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 14

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

25-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:
English
Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Marvel at some of the most majestic landscapes in South America on this eight-day journey across the Colombian Andes. Starting in Bogota – the fourth-highest capital in the world – you’ll learn about the past, present and future of the country before embarking on an epic road trip. Go river rafting on the Río Negro, hike in the Cocora Valley and sample world-renowned coffee in the Zona Cafetera as you traverse awe-inspiring mountains en route to Medellín. Once labelled the most dangerous city in the world, it has undergone a radical transformation and is now one of the trendiest destinations in Colombia – the perfect place to finish your adventure.

Highlights

  • Explore cosmopolitan Bogota

  • Go river rafting down the Río Negro

  • Taste the best coffee in the world in the Zona Cafetera

  • Hike in the picturesque Cocora Valley

  • Try the Colombian sport of tejo

  • Stroll through a Medellín neighborhood once influenced by Pablo Escobar

Places You'll See

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Authentic Colombia

Itinerary

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Day 1 – Arrive In Bogota

Location: Bogotá

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel B3 Virrey

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in Bogota and make your way to the hotel where you’ll be greeted by our Local Insider at 7pm; they'll help you checkin and accompanying the group throughout the trip. Get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner at Andrés DC restaurant, with a lively atmosphere and an extensive Colombian menu. Expect hearty meat dishes, cheese platters and plenty more. Be sure to get a good night’s rest ahead of a busy day tomorrow.

Activities included:

Welcome dinner

Day 2 – Learn About Colombia’S Fascinating History And Explore The Graffiti District Of Bogota

Location: La Concordia, Bogotá

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel B3 Virrey

Meals Included: No Meals

Start your Colombian adventure with a guided walking tour to learn about the country’s turbulent political history, drug trade and how it emerged from 52 years of civil war to become one of the happiest countries in the world. Sample local delicacies at La Concordia market before continuing your tour through the flamboyant district of La Candelaria, admiring the eclectic street art on display. Come nightfall, venture out to the lively bars of Bogota and sample the city’s thriving craft beer scene.

Activities included:

Bogota history walking tour

La Concordia market visit

Bogota graffiti tour

Coffee stop

Optional activities:

Evening drinks

Day 3 – Kick Start Your Road Trip And Try River Rafting

Location: Tobia, Honda, Mariquita-Honda

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Boutique San Rafael

Meals Included: Dinner

After breakfast, it’s time to begin your road trip across the mountains. You’ll notice major changes in temperature and terrain as you descend more than 2,000m (6,561ft) from the Bogota plateau into the Magdalena River Valley. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to try rafting in the Río Negro in the town of Tobia and learn about the importance of the river at El Río Museum. Take a walking tour through the former colonial town of Honda en route to Mariquita – your home for the night, where you’ll enjoy an authentic dinner at Los Guaduales restaurant.

Activities included:

Río Negro river rafting

Honda walking tour

El Río Museum visit

Day 4 – Ascend High Into The Andes And Enter The Zona Cafetera

Location: Cordillera Central, Circasia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Bio Habitat Hotel

Meals Included: No Meals

Ready for spectacular views? Today, you’ll embark on the most dramatic section of your road trip, ascending to 3,700m (12,140ft) above sea level as you cross the Cordillera Central. If visibility levels are good, you may spot Nevado del Ruiz – a 5,311m (17,425ft) high, glacier-capped volcano. You’ll gradually descend through the cities of Manizales and Pereira, eventually arriving at your next stop, Circasia, in the heart of the Colombian coffee-growing region known as the Zona Cafetera. In the evening, you'll learn about folklore through a session with a local music group.

Activities included:

Folkloric show

Day 5 – Hike In The Cocora Valley And Visit A Coffee Farm

Location: Cocora Valley, Salento

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Bio Habitat Hotel

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Climb aboard a Willys Jeep, an ex-US army truck that will take you into the Cocora Valley. Hike through this extraordinary landscape, renowned for its gigantic Quindío wax palm trees, and enjoy a picnic lunch. Discover why Colombian coffee is among the finest in the world at a local farm before returning to Salento and trying your hand at tejo. This is a traditional sport which involves hurling steel discs at a loaded gunpowder target, typically played with a beer in hand. It’s a lot of fun, and much less dangerous than it sounds. Later on, head out for dinner at Bernabé restaurant.

Activities included:

Cocora Valley hike

Coffee farm tour

Tejo game

Day 6 – Stop By An Orchid Farm On The Road To Medellín

Location: Finca La Romelia, Medellín

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: La Campana Hotel Boutique

Meals Included: Lunch

Set off on the final leg of your road trip – a 250km (155mi) northward journey from Circasia to Medellín. Stop at Finca La Romelia on the way, a family-run farm housing more than 800 species of orchid and over 200 species of bird. Tuck into a delicious lunch in picturesque surroundings before hitting the road once more. In late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Medellín, nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring due to its pleasant year-round climate. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.

Activities included:

Orchid and bird farm visit

Day 7 – Explore Medellín And Learn About Its Radical 21St-Century Transformation

Location: Medellín

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: La Campana Hotel Boutique

Meals Included: Dinner

Medellín has come a long way since the conflict-ridden Pablo Escobar era, transitioning from one of the most dangerous cities in the world during the 1990s into a flourishing metropolis today, brimming with cultural attractions and technological innovation. On a guided walking tour, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of the city’s troubled past and the changes in governance, which fuelled its transformation over the past 20 years. Viewers of the Netflix Narcos series may well recognize several locations. In the evening, toast to your fellow travelers over a farewell dinner.

Activities included:

Medellín walking tour

Farewell dinner

Day 8 – Depart From Medellín

Location: Medellín

After one final breakfast, checkout of the hotel and say adios to the group by midday. Head to the airport to catch your flight back home. Alternatively, continue your Colombian adventure by joining our Paradise Found: a Taste of Colombia's Caribbean Coast trip and discover a whole other side to the country.

Optional activities
Airport transfer

What's Included

  • Private and local transport

  • Meals described in the itinerary

  • Activities described in the itinerary

  • Arrival airport transfer

What's Not Included

  • Insurance

  • Country Entry Visas

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Departure airport transfer

Check out our Q&As

  • Are airport transfers included?

    Some of our trips do not include airport transfers, so we recommend customers either take public transport or a taxi. However, if you would like us to arrange a private transfer please ask one of our travel experts who can arrange this for you.

  • What is not included in the trip?

    We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.

  • When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?

    We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.

  • Do I need any vaccinations?

    As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.

  • Do I need to buy travel insurance?

    Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.

  • Why should I travel with Culture Trip?

    We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.

  • What kind of luggage should I bring?

    It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.

  • What kind of transport do you use on your trips?

    We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.

  • What is the group size?

    Our maximum group size is 18, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.

  • Is there any age limit on the Trips?

    You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.

  • How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?

    We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.

  • Can I travel in my own private group?

    Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.

  • Do I need to tip?

    Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.

  • Are flights / transport to the destination included?

    No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.

  • What happens if I am travelling on my own?

    Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.

  • What visas do I need?

    Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.

  • How much money should I bring?

    This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.

  • What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?

    You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.

  • Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?

    Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.

  • How many meals are included?

    Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.

  • Will there always be a guide on the trip?

    Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.

  • I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?

    We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.

  • Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?

    You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.

  • Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?

    The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!

  • What is a Local Insider?

    We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.

Reviews of this Operator

Hannah  

My experience with Culture Trips was outstanding!

03-Feb-2022

My experience with Culture Trips was outstanding! I went on the trip to Iceland in 2021, my very first international trip, and it was absolutely incredible! I felt like it exceeded beyond all expectations. Culture Trips made the whole process of signing up for the trip very easy and understandable, and I always had great customer service whenever I reached out with a question. With the help of Culture Trips and our local insider, I felt like our travel group was well taken care of during the entire experience. Our itinerary was pack full of adventure and we learned so much about the Icelandic culture and nature by our incredible local insider guide. A truly unforgettable experience! Thank you all again for making this dream come true!

Ruby and Leslie  

Culture Trip didn’t miss a thing and I had stress free travel!

29-Apr-2023

Culture Trip staff were so responsive and the insiders and local guides, even the drivers, were all excellent and professional and knowledgeable! They had every T crossed and I dotted and every single detail managed so I would have stress free travel. My group was friendly and the activities planned were aligned with the areas culture and history, and FOOD! I will use Culture Trip again and have referred them to many already. This overall experience was awesome!

Brenda  

My trip to Egypt with Culture Trip was one of the best trips I've ever done!

25-Nov-2022

My trip to Egypt with Culture Trip was one of the best trips I've ever done! The accommodations, the activities, and especially the "local insider" guide were superb. Traveling in a small group (5 total on the tour) was so nice, I felt a bit sorry for other tourists being herded around in a big group on a big bus. We went on activities that you just couldn't do with a big group. Our local guide was more like a friend we all knew who lived there and was showing us his favorite places!

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Culture Trip allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 55 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Culture Trip allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform culture trip, 55 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Culture Trip requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 55 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of culture trip charges.

    At 54 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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