Colombia Group Tours
A colourful 2-week adventure for travellers in their 30s and 40s
Length
14 Days
Group size
4-12 travellers
Colourful Colombia
36 Reviews
Trip highlights
Street art in Bogotá & Medellín
Marvel at giant palm trees in Cocora Valley
Explore colorful mountain towns
Climb Piedra del Peñol rock
The "Indico Travels" experience
Created for people in their 30s and 40s
Boat trip to Caribbean islands
Nightlife in Medellín and Cartagena
Float through the jungle on inflatables
Are you in your 30s or 40s and dream of visiting Colombia, but would love someone else to take on the planning, or would rather travel with others? Then this trip could be perfect for you!
During this 14-day tour you'll sip fresh coffee with a view of wide, green coffee plantations. You discover sleepy mountain villages and the explosive Colombian game of tejo. You'll hike through Tayrona National Park to gorgeous white beaches. Explore Colombia's major cities, with their rich and exciting history: discover Bogotá by bike, go on a street art tour in Medellín's Comuna 13 neighbourhood, and walk through Cartagena's alleys steeped in colonial history.
Local fishermen from a community project take us out into the mangrove forest in La Boquilla. Upon returning to shore, we cook a Colombian dish with the women of the village. We treat ourselves to a boat ride to a Caribbean island where we can unwind in a tropical paradise.
This trip is planned with people like you in mind: travellers in their 30s and 40s looking to experience a shared adventure.
This colourful journey explore Colombia's many facets. Will you join the ride?
Map
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Colombia!
Meet over local food
Meals included: Dinner
Transportation: Private Taxi (1:00h)
Upon your arrival, your driver whisks you from the airport to our hotel in the historic district of Bogotá, La Candelaria. Freshen up and get ready to dive into Bogotá's evening scene! Meet your fellow travellers and tour guide before heading out to a popular restaurant. Get to know your fellow travellers and taste the flavours of the capital. Cheers to our shared adventure!
If you're in the mood for a really wild night afterwards, feel free to head to the biggest gay club in South America, which takes up an entire city block. What happens in legendary Teatrón, stays in Teatrón!
BH Bicentenario
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Laundry service
Hot water
TV in room
Day 2
Bustling Bogotá
Live music on Ciclovía
Bicycle tour through Bogotá
Monserrate viewpoint
Visit of Paloquemao markt
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Bicycle (4:00h)
On Sundays, every third Bogoteño participates in a big sports event called Ciclovía. Huge avenues are closed for cars, so locals can bike, roller skate or jog through the city. Today we cycle alongside them, stopping off at the little stages by the side of the road to vibe and do work-outs to live music with the locals and get a feel for their city.
A local guide leads the way. We stop off at the Plaza de Bolivar, where Colombian independence was proclaimed, and get lost in the lively Mercado de Paloquemao food market. You'll be surprised how many fruits you haven't tried before!
In the afternoon, you can check out the Gold Museum on your own, or take the cable car to visit the viewpoint on Mount Monserrate, before enjoying a beer with your new companions in the bars of the area (all optional).
BH Bicentenario
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Laundry service
Hot water
TV in room
Day 3
Rural Hospitality
Arrive in "coffee triangle"
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transportation: Private Bus (2:00h), Flight (1:00h)
Today we leave the big city behind and immerse ourselves in rural Colombia with its warm-hearted inhabitants.
After a short flight, we arrive in the lush green mountains of Colombia's so-called coffee triangle, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. We visit charming countryside towns off the beaten track, greeting laid-back locals, who watch the world go by from deckchairs in front of their houses. When visiting colorful Pijao, we'll find out why it was declared the first official "città slow" or "slow city" in South America. In between exploring the towns and villages, we climb up to hidden overlooks to enjoy the view over the magnificent slopes of the coffee plantations.
Later, our host Doña Yolanda gives us a warm welcome to her traditional countryside finca, where we'll stay for the next two nights. Yolanda serves us a homemade dinner made from the region's local produce in her cozy dining room.
We go to bed feeling as if we're staying at our Colombian friend's mum's house.
Finca San Diego Yolanda
Type: Lodge
Category: Standard
Facilities:
Swimming Pool
Day 4
Colombian Cowboys
Relax by the pool
Horse riding in Quindío
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transportation: Private Bus (1:00h), Horseback riding (2:00h)
After a good night's sleep, we enjoy a hearty breakfast at the finca, featuring Colombian arepas (warm corn patties) and fresh fruit.
Energized, we set out to discover the region the traditional way: on horseback. Back in the day, many coffee farmers had to use horses or donkeys to transport their harvest due to the rough terrain.
Nowadays - thanks to improved infrastructure - they typically use trucks. There are still many horses in the region, though, so today we'll discover the green landscape on horseback. Don't worry if you have never ridden before: the horses, as well as the keepers are used to inexperienced riders!
In the afternoon, we return to Yolanda's finca and have time to go for a swim in the pool or read a book in a hammock. This is the life!
In the evening, Yolanda fires up the stove again, and we enjoy a tasty three-course menu together.
Finca San Diego Yolanda
Type: Lodge
Category: Standard
Facilities:
Swimming Pool
Day 5
An afternoon with a bang!
Visit a coffee plantation
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Bus (2:00h)
Starting your day with coffee is the best way! We explore the green slopes of a coffee plantation alongside a guide. See first hand how coffee is harvested and processed, before trying some yourself.
Afterwards, we visit the colourful village of Salento, whose pretty alleys are often depicted on popular photos of Colombia.
The late afternoon starts with a bang - at least if we're accurate! We try our hand at tejo, a Colombian throwing game which involves targets made from gunpowder that explode upon impact. How exciting!
El Mirador de Boquia
Day 6
Hiking Amongst Giants
Hike amongst Cocora valley
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Bus (5:00h), Local Flight (1:00h), By Foot (2:00h)
Today we get up very early to marvel at the magical Valle del Cocora before the crowds of tourists arrive. For two hours we hike through the fairy tale landscape, from which wax palms tower like giant needles pinned into the vibrantly green grass.
Afterwards, we make our way to Medellín. Until October 2023, we will be taking an internal flight due to road construction, for tours after that we will go back to taking a private transfer by road.
Upon arrival in Medellín, we check in to our hotel. Those who feel like it freshen up and get ready for some Colombian night-life! Together we make our way to a popular salsa club. Practice a few moves at the salsa class, or simply watch while sipping a beer before the party starts!
Hotel Golden Palermo
Day 7
Street art and urban life
Casa de la Memoria
Learn about drug cartels
Graffiti tour in Comuna 13
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Subway (1:00h), By Foot (2:00h)
Today we explore the turbulent and exciting history of Medellín. We begin with the notorious Comuna 13. This poor neighbourhood on the hillside was long troubled by violence and gang warfare. We learn how, through the efforts of many residents and supporters, the neighbourhood underwent an impressive transformation in recent years and has now become a Mecca for street art fans. Members of the Casa Kolacho community project take us on a graffiti tour through their neighbourhood, granting an authentic glimpse into the lives of the local population. On the way, we stop to enjoy rap and breakdance performances by the talented youth of Comuna 13.
The afternoon is free, but you can visit the the Casa de La Memoria museum with your guide if you want. You've probably heard stories about Colombian drug cartels. The Netflix series Narcos has brought the subject back to international attention in recent years. The stories of gang wars and violence that we know from the media revolve around real people, families and fates. We want to approach the topic from their perspective. This "House of Memories" gives insight into Medellín's violent past and reflects on forgiveness and steps towards a more peaceful future for the city.
Late in the afternoon we return to the hotel. It is located in a quiet, residential area, which is still close to bars, restaurants and clubs. Maybe you want to go out tonight? Or do you prefer to relax in the hot tub, sauna or Turkish bath of the hotel?
Hotel Golden Palermo
Day 8
A whirlwind of color
Views from Piedra del Peñol
Most colorful village Guatape
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Bus (2:00h)
Early in the morning we make our way to the fairytale-like Guatapé. The inhabitants of the city used to live as farmers until a huge dam was built, flooding the surrounding area and many crop fields. Today, tourism is the most important economic factor in the region - a development facilitated by the city's uniqueness.
First we visit the "Insta-famous" Piedra del Peñol - a huge rock with possibly the most unusual staircase in the world. We only have to climb 649 steps to be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the flooded landscape.
Afterwards, you have free time to explore the vibrantly painted alleys of the "most colourful city in Colombia".
Soy Local
Day 9
Caribbean Paradise
Tubing along the river
Stories by the fireside
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Bus (2:00h), Flight (1:00h), Boat (2:00h)
We can't wait for our private transport to take us to the airport, because today we are going to the CARIBBEAN! We arrive in Santa Marta at noon - and it is hot!
That's why we hop into the Don Diego River in large swim rings to cool down. The current leisurely carries us through the forest. Who can spot animals in the treetops - like the howler monkeys who might give their location away with their iconic cries?
Upon arrival at the river mouth, we relax on the beach and enjoy a gorgeous sunset. We build a campfire that we share with some local fishermen who tell us tales and legends of their region while we're watching the flickering lights.
At night, we settle in to our beautiful accommodation, which is right by the beach, surrounded by Colombia's natural beauty. What animals will we be able to hear at night?
Eco Hotel Finca la Jorara
Type: Hotel
Category: Standard
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Swimming Pool
Room Safe
Day 10
Tayrona National Park
Swim at the beach
Hike through Tayrona
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Bus (1:00h), By Foot (5:00h)
Do you remember the classic movies where the protagonists are stranded on a tropical island and heroically find their way through the bushes to eventually discover a dream beach? That's what we'll be doing today - except that there are hiking trails and public toilets - survival light, so to speak!
We hike through beautiful Tayrona National Park for a total 5 hours and hopefully spot some exotic animals along the way. Again and again we come across picture book beaches, like Playa Arrecife or Playa La Piscina, where we stop to take in the beauty. At Cabo San Juan, you have spare time for lunch and to relax.
In the evening, we return to our lodge. Swinging in a hammock between trees, your day-to-day life will seem a world away.
Eco Hotel Finca la Jorara
Type: Hotel
Category: Standard
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Swimming Pool
Room Safe
Day 11
Meet the Locals
Learn about fishermen's life
Cooking lesson with locals
Boat ride through mangroves
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Transportation: Private Bus (4:00h), Boat (1:00h)
Today we continue our journey westwards.
The fishing village of La Boquilla welcomes us with open arms. With your visit, you support the local population, who can no longer sustain themselves from fishing alone.
Upon arrival, the women of the village are keen to show us how they cook. We all roll up our sleeves and learn how to prepare a typical local lunch. While some prepare fresh coconut rice, others mash plantains or try freshly prepared crabs. Of course, this meal is accompanied by freshly caught local fish.
Then the friendly fishermen take us on a trip on their boats right through lush mangrove forests. We may see some casting their fishing nets or catching crabs.
We bid a fond farewell to the fishing community. In the early evening we arrive at our hotel in the trendy Getsemaní district of Cartagena. Freshen up, and then head out into the warm summer night to end the day with some cocktails, if you like!
Hotel Casa Mara
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Air conditioning & private bathroom
Swimming Pool
TV in room
Day 12
Your day off in Cartagena
Meals included: Breakfast
To call the city of Cartagena de Indias a gem would be a gross understatement. This beautiful city offers a firework of colonial buildings in the happiest colors. Named after their hometown of Cartagena by Spanish sailors in the 16th century, the city played an important role in Colombia's history at different points in time. With its thick city walls and seaside location, the Spanish saw their rule over the city challenged numerous times, for example when the British navy attacked it in the 18th century. Ultimately, however, it was Cartagena that was the first city in Colombia to declare independence from Spain in 1811.
Today you have a day off to wander Cartagena's pretty streets, strolling past vendors selling tropical fruit and sun hats, Explore the city on your own or with your co-travellers. We recommend the open air bar Casa Del Mar to watch the sun set over the ocean!
Hotel Casa Mara
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Air conditioning & private bathroom
Swimming Pool
TV in room
Day 13
Tropical Islands
Party time!
Boat to tropical archipelago
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Transportation: Boat (6:00h)
For our last full day in Colombia, we treat ourselves to something special. We hop on a speedboat and head out to the gorgeous Islas del Rosario. The archipelago is located in the Caribbean Sea, 35km from Cartagena. The 27 islands have been declared a national park and when you see their turquoise waters that make it the quintessential tropical paradise, you'll understand why!
We spend the day on the beach of one of the islands. We enjoy a delicious lunch there. Relax and look back on an eventful trip while burying your feet in the white sand.
After returning to Cartagena in the afternoon, we freshen up for our last evening in Colombia as a group. We visit a nightclub that is popular with locals and toast to all the memorable experiences of the past two weeks.
Hotel Casa Mara
Facilities:
Internet/Wifi
Air conditioning & private bathroom
Swimming Pool
TV in room
Day 14
Goodbye Cartagena!
Meals included: Breakfast
Our last day has begun. Today we have free time, so we can take care of any last things we wanted to do in Colombia. Maybe you want to take home some good coffee or souvenirs?
Cartagena is one of the most photogenic cities in the world, so ask one of your travel buddies to go on a photo tour with you. There definitely are plenty of beautiful backgrounds to choose from!
Our tour ends here in Cartagena where we say goodbye to each other and our guide. We look back on a multifaceted trip that gave us new friends and incredible memories. Let's stay in touch and look forward to our next adventure!
Dates & Prices
Start date
End date
Info
Availability
Price
20
Jul
2024
2
Aug
2024
From
USD 2,780
20
Jul
2024
2
Aug
2024
From
USD 2,780
21
Sep
2024
4
Oct
2024
From
USD 2,780
21
Sep
2024
4
Oct
2024
From
USD 2,780
Preferred date unavailable? Contact us
Info
Single Room Upgrade
The trip includes accommodation in a shared twin room. Treat yourself to a private single room for USD 440!
What's included
All listed activities & entrance fees (except those highlighted as optional)
Daily breakfast, as well as meals marked as "included" in the daily itinerary
Domestic flights (Bogotá-Armenia, Armenia-Medellín (until approx. April 2023), Medellín-Santa Marta)
Tour guide throughout (English speaking)
Accommodation in a shared twin room
Single room available for an additional fee (depending on availability)
Transfer from Bogotá airport to the hotel on day 1
Compensation of CO2 emissions (also for your long haul flight)
What's not included
International flights (please only book after we've confirmed the departure!)
Tips & gratuities
Reviews
FAQs
Do I need a visa to enter Colombia?
The rules below applied pre-pandemic. Please check with the Colombian embassy in your home country as to what the current rules are, or check with us if you need help!
All U.S. citizens who do not also hold Colombian citizenship must present a valid U.S. passport to enter and leave Colombia. U.S. citizens do not need a Colombian visa for a tourist or business stay of 90 days or less or for cumulative stays of 180 days or less per calendar year. You will find more information here.
Colombian immigration authorities allow visa-free entry to British nationals for stays of up to 90 days as a visitor. However, upon arrival, the authorities at the airport will stamp your passport with the granted stay period, which may vary, depending on your purpose of travel. You should carry your British citizen passport that is valid for a minimum of six months and you might be asked to present proof of return or onward travel. You should also carry proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Colombia. You will find more information here
German citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays in Colombia of less than 90 days. Upon entry, only the return ticket and a passport valid for at least 6 more months must be presented in order to obtain a tourist visa (this does not have to be applied for beforehand!). The tourist visa must be valid for at least the number of days of the trip. For current changes or advice or further information, please contact the Auswärtiges Amt.
Swiss citizens please check the homepage of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.
Austrians can find the relevant information on the website of the Austrian Foreign Ministry.
Please also look into necessary vaccinations and vaccination recommendations (including yellow fever) on the pages of the Auswärtiges Amt.
Please always double-check with your local authorities to confirm that the entry requirements haven't changed.
Important: If you are of different nationality, please check with the Colombian embassy in your home country. Let us know if you need help!
What vaccinations are recommended or required for my trip?
As a tour operator, we are not allowed to give specific vaccination recommendations for liability reasons. We strongly recommend that you consult your local doctor or, even better, a qualified doctor specialized in tropical diseases in good time before your trip. Here are some relevant links for residents of several countries: UK: Gov.uk, USA: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Germany: Auswärtiges Amt.
Please note that for our Colombia tour, a yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory.
When can I book my international flights?
As soon as we have confirmed that the minimum number of participants for your trip has been reached and the trip is therefore guaranteed to take place, you can book your flights. The trip will be confirmed or cancelled at least 45 days before departure. We will be happy to give you tips on booking flights! By the way: it is in our interest to fill the trips as soon as possible, so we do our best to confirm them as soon as possible.
When is a trip guaranteed to take place?
A trip is guaranteed to take place when the minimum number of participants has been reached. If you have already booked before the minimum number of participants has been reached, we will let you know, so you can book your flights. We will confirm or cancel the trip no later than 45 days before the scheduled departure date. If a trip has to be cancelled unexpectedly, you will of course receive a 100% refund of your deposit or any other payments made.
What language are the tours led in?
We are an English speaking company based in Berlin. Our tours are led in English and co-travellers are international English speakers.
COVID regulations in Colombia
You may be required to wear face masks on public transport or select other places during the tour - your guide will let you know. It's recommended to comply with other biosafety measures (like distancing, handwashing, ventilation).
Travellers must complete the Checkmig registration click here within 72 hours prior to boarding their flight to Colombia and when going back home again. If you make a mistake on your Check Mig Form, there is a contingency form immigration will also accept. It's called 'Check Mig Contingencia'. You can also contact our local Colombian embassy or representation for advice if needed.
If you're fully vaccinated, you must show your proof of vaccination. The vaccination certificate must include the name and surname of the passenger, the date of vaccination for each dose, the name of the vaccine or the manufacturer for each dose, and the number of doses received.
Please note that a yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for this tour.
Be sure to check the COVID requirements for any countries of transit along your flight route.
Last updated: 01.02.2023
Colourful Colombia
4.8
(36)
Price
On Request
No dates selected