Best of Colombia Tour by Intrepid Travel

15 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

12 peopleMaximum group size

15 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Bogota, Colombia

Ends

Cartagena, Colombia

Highlights

Escape to Tayrona National Park – a patchwork of natural landscapes from beaches and mountain backdrops to wildlife-filled jungle.

Embark on a guided hike through the Cocora Valley, home to hummingbirds, misty cloud forests and the world's tallest palm trees.

Spend a couple of days learning about the world's favourite bean during a stay on a traditional coffee estancia deep in Colombia’s coffee country.

Discover Medellin – a city that was once among Colombia’s most dangerous neighbourhoods but has now transformed into an arts and culture hub that’s bursting with trendy cafes, epic views and some of the country’s best nightlife.

Try your hand at tejo, Colombia’s explosive national sport (think bocce with gunpowder!). Join your group on this fun activity in Salento, made better with a beer in hand.

Itinerary

Colombia’s best-kept secrets are yours to discover on this 17-day city sightseeing trip through vibrant cities, lush highlands, and sun-kissed Caribbean shores. Starting and ending in Bogota, you’ll weave through Barichara, the famed Coffee Region, and charming coastal towns, guided by local experts who reveal Colombia’s gentle side at every turn.

This easy-paced tour is perfect for those seeking a blend of cultural immersion and relaxation. Wander Bogota’s historic heart, explore the cobblestone streets of Barichara, and unwind in the tranquil setting of a Hacienda Coffee Farm, where you’ll sample some of the world’s finest brews. The trip’s leisurely rhythm allows ample time to connect with locals, indulge in authentic cuisine, and soak in Colombia’s renowned hospitality.

The tour culminates on the Caribbean coast, where powdery beaches and palm-fringed waters invite you to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you’re strolling through lush mountain landscapes, lounging on the sand, or sharing stories with welcoming communities, every day offers a new perspective on Colombia’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

What makes this tour package truly special is its focus on genuine connection—both with the land and its people. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Colombia’s diversity, warmth, and the softer side of its story. For travelers craving a gentle adventure that combines city sights with breathtaking nature, the "Best of Colombia" delivers an unforgettable journey from mountains to sea.

day 1 - Bogota

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia. Your adventure begins in Bogota – sitting at 2644 m above sea level, Colombia's lofty capital is a charming yet hectic mix of old and new. With a wealth of cosy cafes, interesting museums and old churches, there’s plenty to do and see here. You’ll meet with your local leader and group for an orientation walk around the neighbourhood of La Candelaria at 1 pm. There will also be a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, why not head out to dinner with your new travel companions and get to know the local cuisine. As there's little time spent in Bogota on this trip, it’s recommended that you arrive a day or two early to see all the sights this incredible city has to offer.

included:Bogota - La Candelaria Walking Tour

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

day 2 - Salento

This morning, immerse your senses in the flavours and aromas of Colombia on a visit to a local food market – home to Bogota’s biggest selection of native tropical fruits, fresh vegetables and food stalls – and maybe indulge in a delicious arepa (Colombian style cornmeal flatbreads). After, take a short flight and transfer to the village of Salento. When you arrive, stroll through the streets to admire the colours of Paisa architecture at its best. For some local food, trout is the way to go here – there are lots of ways to enjoy it, but it's most often served with a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Tonight, try your hand at Colombia's national sport, tejo – a popular pastime in Salento, made even better with a beer in hand.

included:Salento - Traditional Tejo Game, Bogota - Visit to food market

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 3 - Coffee Estancia

Travel by jeep out to the magnificent Cocora Valley – home of the towering wax palm (Colombia's national tree). Spend the morning walking among the region's incredible scenery, maybe hiking in the wax palm tree forest. You'll need good walking shoes as well as plenty of water and snacks (a boxed lunch will be provided). If you'd rather take it easy, you can explore the valley as you please, then take a jeep back to town. Later, travel deep into Colombia's coffee region for a two-night stay in a traditional coffee estancia, where you'll have an opportunity to learn first-hand about this wonderful bean.

included:Cocora Valley - Wax palm tree forest hike

accommodation:Coffee Estancia

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 4 - Coffee Estancia

Thanks to its tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil, Colombia is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. You’ll get to know this addictive little bean a whole lot better on a guided tour of the coffee plantation and processing centre. Dig into the history of the plant, learning the inside story of the industry that's long buoyed the country's economy. See how the beans are grown, harvested, processed, dried, roasted and ground, then sample firsthand what all the fuss is about. Try different varieties of coffee beans and learn to prepare different types of coffees – finishing it all off with a steaming cup of freshly brewed joe. After, relax amid the estancia's beautiful surrounds of sloping green hills and valleys.

included:Coffee Hacienda- Coffee plantation tour & tasting

accommodation:Coffee Estancia

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 5 - Medellin

Leave the coffee estancia this morning and take a transfer to the small town of Chinchina, where you’ll board a comfortable public bus for the journey to Medellin. Along the way, learn a little more about the town's intriguing history – having spent the 80s and 90s with an international reputation as one of the world's most dangerous cities (due to Pablo Escobar's infamous drug cartel), Medellin has turned itself around to become one of the most exciting cities in South America. And with some of the country's finest museums, parks and architecture, it's easy to see why its popularity is increasing. When you arrive, explore the city on an orientation walk with your leader.

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 6 - Medellin

Today you’ll enjoy a birds-eye view of Medellin and its surrounds during a cable car ride up to Santa Elena. Sail up the mountain over brick houses, watching as the corrugated metal roofs give way to vistas of green valleys and forested peaks. Thanks to the elevation, things are usually a little cooler up in Santa Elena. Enjoy an included tour of a flower garden where a local family will showcase the flower displays that are traditional to the region. Back in Medellin, take a barrio transformation tour to see how the city is now more than its dark history. Tonight, you might want to search out one of the city's lively salsa bars (Medellin is known for its nightlife and your leader will know the best spots to go!).

included:Medellin - Barrio Transformation Tour, Medellin - Flower Garden tour, Metrocable to Acevedo station and up to Santa Elena

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 7 - Medellin

Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the Museo de Antioquia to see some of Botero's famous works. Or, get more modern at the beautiful Museo de Arte Moderno. If you’re not sure how to spend your day, your local leader is always on hand with some great tips!

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 8 - Cartagena

Fly to Cartagena – one of South America's most historic cities. When you arrive, you’ll have some free time to explore the Old City. This inner walled town is the main attraction in Cartagena and is packed with beautiful churches, monasteries, plazas and mansions. Its walled fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built to protect Cartagena’s large slave trade port. Maybe visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest of the fortresses. You might end this adventure people-watching in the heart of Getsemani at Plaza de la Trinidad, where kids play football and street performers jam out. Tonight, you’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm to meet new travellers who may be joining you for this next leg. After the meeting, step out for an orientation walk with your leader to get a better feel for the city and explore some things you might not have seen yet (sometimes this walk will take place tomorrow morning instead). This evening, maybe head out with your leader and fellow travellers for an optional dinner in town to get to know the new travellers in your group.

included:Cartagena - Orientation walk

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 9 - Cartagena

This morning, set off on a daytrip to La Boquilla – a small fishing village on the outskirts of Cartagena – to explore the mangroves that are part of the Ciénaga de la Virgen coastal lagoon system. On arrival, you'll see the contrast between two sides of Cartagena: one of its most underprivileged areas alongside rising five-star hotels and luxury apartments. Hop in a canoe with a local boatman to explore the mangroves and the Juan Polo swamp, gliding through tree tunnels and past fishermen at work. The biodiversity here is rich, with a good chance of spotting various birds, crabs, and – with a bit of luck – a raccoon or green parrot along the riverbanks. Finish the tour with a fresh coconut, then return to Cartagena for some free time to relax.

included:Cartagena -La Boquilla Mangrove Tour

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 10 - Cartagena

Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. You could join a half-day tour of the Old Town to explore highlights like La Popa Monastery, San Felipe Castle (the largest of the city's fortresses) and Las Bovedas – a former military fortification and network of dungeons that has been turned into a craft market. Or how about an island-hopping adventure around Islas del Rosario? This archipelago is surrounded by mangroves and coral reefs and is a great spot for snorkelling! Make sure to check in with your leader for recommendations to try some local food.

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 11 - Taironaka

Take a private transfer this morning to Taironaka – an ancient Tayrona archaeological and ecotourism reserve on the banks of the Don Diego River. This afternoon, you’ll meet a member of the Kogui community – one of the four Indigenous groups living in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta – and learn about their beliefs, ancient wisdom and deep connection to the land. The community also leads reforestation and regeneration projects, and you’ll have the chance to muck in and plant some trees yourself. This evening, maybe enjoy a cocktail or two with your fellow travellers.

included:Santa Marta - Kogui Indigenous community & reforestation project visit

accommodation:Guesthouse

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

day 12 - Tayrona

Get your walking shoes and bug spray ready – today’s all about exploring the jungle trails in Tayrona National Park! Stretching along a lush section of the Caribbean coast, Tayrona is home to some of the country's prettiest beaches, coral reefs and abundant wildlife – with over 100 species of mammals and more than 300 types of birds. You’ll hike to Cabo San Juan – a gorgeous beach only accessible by boat or on foot. Along the way, weave through rainforest, catch glimpses of the turquoise water and maybe spot a sloth or howler monkey overhead. Once you reach Cabo San Juan, cool off with a well-deserved swim or sip a fresh coconut under the palms. You’ll then head back to Taironaka for a free evening – how about treating yourself to a relaxing massage after today’s adventures?

included:Tayrona National Park hike, Tayrona National Park - Entrance fee

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

day 13 - Santa Marta

Today you’ll take a private transfer to Santa Marta at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This coastal city is South America's oldest European-founded town. Once you arrive, join your leader for an orientation walk through the historic centre to find your bearings. Stroll past Santa Marta Cathedral, Parque de los Novios and Plaza de Bolivar, and hear stories about the city’s layered past. As the sun sets, you'll have free time to unwind or explore further. When hunger hits, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations.

included:Santa Marta - Orientation walk

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 14 - Santa Marta / Cartagena

Travel like a local this morning on a public bus back to Cartagena. One of the best ways to gain an insight into the culture is through food, so this afternoon you’ll hit the streets on a tasting tour with a local guide. Wander market stalls, meet lively Cartageneros vendors and try a range of local snacks – think: carimañolas (torpedo-shaped meat pies), chorizo sausage, corn on the cob buns and enyucado (cassava cheesecake). As this is your final night as a group, you might like to go for one last dinner together and raise a toast to an unforgettable week in Colombia. Salud!

included:Cartagena - Street Food Tour

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

day 15 - Cartagena

With no activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you'd like to spend more time in Colombia, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability) – just let us know when booking.

meals:1 Breakfast

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What's Included

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights), Guesthouse (1 night) Coffee Estancia (2 nights)

Meals

14 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners

Transport

Plane, Private Bus, Private vehicle, Public bus, Van

Guide

An expert tour leader

Included Activities

Bogota - La Candelaria Walking TourSalento - Traditional Tejo GameBogota - Visit to food marketCocora Valley - Wax palm tree forest hikeCoffee Hacienda- Coffee plantation tour & tastingMedellin - Barrio Transformation TourMedellin - Flower Garden tourMetrocable to Acevedo station and up to Santa ElenaCartagena - Orientation walkCartagena -La Boquilla Mangrove TourSanta Marta - Kogui Indigenous community & reforestation project visitTayrona National Park hikeTayrona National Park - Entrance feeSanta Marta - Orientation walkCartagena - Street Food Tour

What's Excluded

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