Best of Colombia

Best of Colombia

9 Days Starting in Medellín and ending in Cartagena

Visiting: Medellín, Santa Marta, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, Cartagena, San Basilio de Palenque

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

AAD

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Easy & Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Combining Colonial-era relics with forward-looking cities, ancient civilisations with brash, bold street art, rainforests soundtracked by howler monkeys with ever-so-wild beaches, Colombia is the best of South America in one neat package. Discover it for yourself on this immersive trip, which combines the city life of Medellín and Cartagena with an exploration of the rural and natural, visiting Tayrona National Natural Park and an organic coffee farm in Minca.







This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample will contribute directly to the eBioAtlas; the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here.

Highlights

  • Explore Medellín, the most innovative city in Colombia

  • Wander the colourful streets of Cartagena

  • Walk through tropical forest and along wild beaches in Tayrona National Natural Park

  • Visit a coffee plantation in Minca, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

  • Experience Afro-Colombian culture in San Basilio de Palenque

  • Stay in a beautiful lodge on the tropical coastline

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start Medellín

Location: Medellín

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Café Hotel by Lars (or similar)

Our adventure starts in Medellín, nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring thanks to a year-round agreeable climate. This modern metropolis is cradled by the Andes mountains and combines innovative architecture, beautiful sculptures (including many by the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero), and thought-provoking street art. Once synonymous with drug lord Pablo Escobar, it has transformed in recent years into one of the most exciting cities in Latin America. We can check into our hotel this afternoon or evening.



Accommodation: Café Hotel by Lars (or similar)

Day 2 : Guided Tour Of Medellín

Location: Medellín

Accommodation Name: Café Hotel by Lars (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we have a half-day tour of Medellín, focussing on how it transformed from ‘the most dangerous city in the world’ to the thriving, innovative hub we see today. At the beginning of the Nineties, the hunt for Pablo Escobar, head of the Medellín cartel, reached its peak, only ending when he was shot dead on a roof by special forces in 1993. From 2002, Medellín gradually began to change for the better and it is now considered one of the most innovative metropolises in the world. We embark on a fascinating tour of Medellín’s past and present and learn more about its transformation.



We visit Plaza Botero and the city centre, take a ride on the metro and metrocable, and visit Comuna 13, once a dangerous neighbourhood, but now a living gallery packed with incredible street art murals.



Accommodation: Café Hotel by Lars (or similar)

Day 3 : Fly To Santa Marta; To Tayrona National Natural Park

Location: Santa Marta

Accommodation Name: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We are driven to the airport today for our flight (1hr 20min) from Medellín to the city of Santa Marta on the Caribbean coast. We take a morning flight (subject to schedules and availability) then transfer about 1hr 30min to our accommodation surrounded by tropical gardens, close to the beach and Tayrona National Natural Park. We have the afternoon free to relax.



Accommodation: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Day 4 : Discover Tayrona National Natural Park

Location: Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Accommodation Name: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, we drive a short way along the Caribbean coast to El Zaino, the main entrance to Tayrona National Natural Park. Following a walk, we reach Cañaveral beach, a wild and beautiful place; from the top of a small hill, we can enjoy a spectacular view of the sea. The tour continues with a one-hour hike through the tropical forest to Arrecife, another beach. There is plenty of time to have lunch at a restaurant (not included). We continue our trek for another hour, passing beaches such as Arenillas, La Piscina and Cabo San Juan – where we have time for a well-deserved swim and a relax on the palm-backed sands.



We have about four hours of walking today. The trail ascends and descends partly over steps and wooden planks and takes you through tropical forest with very high temperatures and humidity. Be sure to bring appropriate footwear (eg walking shoes), sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water.



Due to strong currents, many beaches in Tayrona are unsafe for swimming. Please consult your tour leader before swimming.



Accommodation: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Day 5 : Visit Taironaka In The Sierra Nevada De Santa Marta

Location: Santa Marta

Accommodation Name: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We visit Taironaka today, a nature reserve in the rainforest-clad foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Ruins of the Tayrona civilisation can be seen here and the descendants of the Tayrona, the Kogi people, still live in the area. Howler monkeys roam the treetops, toucans and other exotic birds hide in the branches, and tropical flowers line the paths.



We drive from our hotel to the Don Diego riverbank. We board a small boat and head upstream to the reserve. In the small Tayrona Museum, we have an introduction to the indigenous culture and history of the region. We visit a typical Kogi house (known as a bohío), the prehispanic stone terraces of the Tayrona and hike to a viewpoint (approximately 1hr 30min). We then enter the forest and follow a path along the Don Diego River. We float gently down the river in tubes until we reach the sea (you may walk along the riverbank if you prefer not to join this activity). Here we have time to relax, enjoy the surroundings and the beautiful scenery.



Accommodation: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Day 6 : Minca Coffee Tour; To Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Accommodation Name: Hotel Monterrey (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We start our day by driving (1hr 30min) to the village of Minca, in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta at 1,970ft (600m) above sea level. From here, we visit an organic coffee farm at 2,950ft (900m) and learn about coffee production. Fortified by the caffeine, we visit Don Camaritos, a local who prepares us some delicious smoked fish and sausages. A short 4x4 ride and hike brings us to the Marinka Waterfalls in the jungle, where we can take a refreshing dip. We have a short tour of Minca before driving to Cartagena, about five hours’ away, arriving in the evening.



Accommodation: Hotel Monterrey (or similar)

Day 7 : Walking Tour Of Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Accommodation Name: Hotel Monterrey (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cartagena is packed with stories, fascinating sites and colonial architecture.



We have a half-day walking tour through the picturesque old town, a Unesco World Heritage site. We pass through cobbled streets and squares and along the old city walls. The afternoon is free.



Accommodation: Hotel Monterrey (or similar)

Day 8 : Discover Afro-Colombian Culture In San Basilio De Palenque

Location: San Basilio de Palenque

Accommodation Name: Hotel Monterrey (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We travel out of Cartagena today to visit San Basilio de Palenque, about two hours’ away. Founded in 1603 by Benkos Biohó, a man who escaped slavery, it was the first free African town in the Americas. Here, the Afro-Colombian population still preserve their Creole language, Palenquero, which is considered the only Spanish-based creole language still alive. The town was recognised by Unesco in 2005 as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The monuments, music and dance styles bear witness to a rich history.



A guide from the community will teach us some basic Palenquero words and we learn about the history of San Basilio. After a walk through the town, we listen to the students of the Batata music school. The rhythms, including mapalé and bullerengue, have strongly influenced the musical identity of the Colombian Caribbean. We also try playing some of the traditional instruments. After our visit, we return to Cartagena.



Accommodation: Hotel Monterrey (or similar)

Day 9 : End Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our adventure ends in Cartagena this morning. If you’d like a bit more time in this intoxicating city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

What's Included

  • All breakfasts

  • All accommodation

  • All transport and listed activities

  • Tour leader throughout

  • Domestic flight (Medellín to Santa Marta)

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Single accommodation (available on request)

  • Visas or vaccinations

Food

All breakfasts are included on this trip.



Breakfast is often eggs (fried, boiled or scrambled), bread or arepas (thick corn pancakes), local cheese, tea or coffee and a fruit juice.



Please note, rural Colombia is not very vegetarian friendly, where meat forms a major part of the diet. However, in Medellín and Cartagena there is a wide choice.

Accommodation

The three hotels chosen for this trip represent an intriguing look at the vastly different architectural styles of Colombia, while also providing a comfy place to rest in activity-packed locations. Listed below are the properties we usually use on this trip.



Medellin: Café Hotel by Lars (nights 1 and 2)







In El Poblado district, this modern three-star hotel offers a relaxing stay in a buzzy part of town. When you’re not out exploring, unwind in the rooftop dipping pool, hit the gym with views over the city or re-energise with an expertly crafted coffee at the bar.



Near Tayrona National Natural Park: Villa Maria Tayrona (nights 3-5)







Villa Maria by Kali Hotels is a jungle retreat just 2mi (3km) from Tayrona National Park. The property has views towards the Caribbean Sea and an outdoor pool where you can unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The tranquil grounds that lead to the sea are the perfect place to relax.



Cartagena: Hotel Monterrey (nights 6-8)







Enjoy plenty of spots to kick back at this ideally located traditional hotel. There’s a rooftop terrace with a small swimming pool and views over the walled city, plus a tree-filled dining courtyard and wood-beamed restaurant.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.!

paul green (Google Reviewer)  

Went on a tour of...

14-Jan-2022

Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained!

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip!

Trustpilot
Ann B (Google Reviewer)  

We had a week walking...

08-Oct-2024

We had a week walking and wine in the Duro valley with two local guides Louis and Theresa. They were both exceptional, knowledgeable, professional and funny. Our group of 11 had a great time. This was a premium tour. Our 4 star hotels were both well located clean and with great views. We had several local meals arranged by our guides with local people cooking for us. We did not meet any other walkers during our hikes only two shepherds. I would certainly recommend this tour to anyone interested in the local produce and wine. We both felt as we had learnt a lot about Portugal during this tour. We will use Exodus again. One of our group had done 30 tours with Exodus over the years. Quite an endorsement.

Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer.

David (Google Reviewer)  

Exodus are generally a good...

21-Aug-2024

Exodus are generally a good travel company. Things tend to run smoothly and trips well organised. Their customers tend to be at retirement age. Trips are a bit overpriced. I would also avoid trips in Europe, as these often focus on more coffee stops and meals, rather than walking. I would also recommend making sure your guide records any accidents you have, hopefully not applicable. I had one on Sierra de Aitana which the guide saw and knew about, but he and Exodus said it never happened when I followed up after the trip. I wasn’t putting in a claim, just suggested a safety improvement. They have since apologised and acknowledged this as an error. They are a good reliable option for outside of Europe trips.

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!!

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service.

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  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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