Essential Colombia

Best price guaranteed

No booking fees

E-ticket/Mobile-voucher

Carbon neutral

8 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

16 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Medellin, Colombia

Ends

Cartagena, Colombia

Highlights

Discover the fascinating histories of Medellín and Cartagena

Sample exotic Colombian fruits and taste delicious street food

Hike the wild landscapes and beaches of Tayrona National Park

Meet the mountain villagers of Minca to taste their highland coffee and food

Explore the biodiverse lagoon of Ciénaga Grande del Magdalena

Itinerary

Capture the magic of Colombia on this compact adventure, designed to showcase its sheer beauty and extraordinary diversity. You’ll explore revitalised Medellín and historic Cartagena with your expert tour leader, meet mountain villagers, discover the beaches of Tayrona National Park, and dive into the booming street food scene. Come away with a true understanding of what makes Colombia so special.

day 1 - Adventure starts Medellín

Begin your adventure in the mountain-wrapped metropolis of Medellín, nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring thanks to its pleasant climate.

Aim to arrive at the hotel this afternoon/evening (arrival in the early hours of the morning of Day 2 is also possible), although we recommend arriving one day early to help get over any jetlag.

There will be a message waiting with information about tomorrow’s meeting time.

Want to explore Medellín further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation: Terra Biohotel (or similar)

Upgrade to a superior room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Others:Terra Biohotel (or similar)

day 2 - Explore the infamous past and bright present of Medellín • Marvel at Fernando Botero sculptures

The transformation of Medellín is nothing short of incredible. In the early 1990s, under the control of Pablo Escobar’s brutal Medellín Cartel, it was considered the Murder Capital of the World. Just a few decades later, it’s a welcoming destination, known for art, culture, food and innovation.

Our tour leader unravels this complicated yet fascinating revolution for us. Using public transportation, including the Metro and cable car, we head to the Comuna 13 district, which was once among the most dangerous areas in the world. On the electric escalators there, we delve deeper into the rejuvenated area and get to know the daily life of the people.

After, head to Berrío Park and Botero Plaza in downtown Medellín to admire the bronze sculptures of Medellín-born artist Fernando Botero, while also exploring the Museum of Antioquia, where we get even more of an insight into the life and work of this iconic Colombian.

Accommodation: Terra Biohotel (or similar)

Upgrade to a superior room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

Others:Terra Biohotel (or similar)

day 3 - Taste exotic fruits in La Minorista market • Fly to Santa Marta

Colombia is a fruit lovers’ paradise with nearly 350 exotic fruit species, some of which don’t even have a name for North Americans and Europeans. Meet the sellers and see their produce on an exploration of La Minorista market in central Medellín, where the different climates of Colombia can be seen in the bright array of fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Learn how to haggle the Colombian way with your tour leader’s advice, try some of the fruit and finish with a fresh juice.

That sets us up nicely for our flight from Medellín to Santa Marta. Upon arrival, we transfer (1hr 10min) to our hotel in Tayrona, which is ideally located to explore the national park tomorrow.

Accommodation: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

day 4 - Explore the beaches and tropical forest of Tayrona National Park

Experience the natural beauty of Tayrona National Park today. We drive east along the Caribbean coast to El Zaino, the main park entrance; after a short walk, we reach Cañaveral beach, one of the most beautiful spots in Tayrona.

From the top of a small hill, enjoy the spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. The tour continues with a one-hour hike through the tropical forest to Arrecife, another stunning Tayrona beach, where there is plenty of time to have lunch at a restaurant (swimming is prohibited due to strong currents).

After, we continue our trek for another hour, passing beaches such as Arenillas, La Piscina and Cabo San Juan – perhaps the most spectacular site in the park – where we have time for a well-deserved swim and to relax on the palm-fringed beach.

Accommodation: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

day 5 - Taste the local produce of Minca village • Swim at Marinka waterfall

See a different side of Colombia today, visiting the mountain village of Minca. Our adventure takes us to Finca La Victoria, a historic family-run coffee farm, where we learn from the makers how they produce their excellent highland coffee.

We then visit Don Camaritos, a local food expert who produces tasty smoked fish and sausages, which we try! After, take a short 4x4 ride to Marinka waterfall, where we can take a cooling dip, before arriving back at Minca for a short tour.

Accommodation: Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Villa Maria Tayrona (or similar)

day 6 - To Cartagena • Explore the biodiverse Ciénaga Grande del Magdalena and meet villagers

We’re off to Cartagena today. It’s about a six-hour drive; however, after about two hours on the road, we stop at Ciénaga Grande del Magdalena, a vital wetlands reserve with a large lagoon home to an impressive array of plant and animal life.

Our exploration first visits the fishing village of Tasajera; from there, we take a Johnson, a motorised canoe typical of the region, and head to the villages of Buenavista and Nueva Venecia, which are formed of about 300 pile dwellings standing on tree trunks above the water.

There, we learn more about the Cienageros, whose lifestyle has hardly changed in the last 100 years. The tour also allows for bird watching, as the biodiversity in this area is very high. At the end, we continue the transfer to Cartagena.

Meals:Breakfast

Accommodation:Hotel 3 Banderas (or similar)

day 7 - Discover Cartagena’s colonial buildings and cobblestone streets • Street food tour

Discover Cartagena’s historic district with your tour leader, immersing ourselves in the Caribbean culture and colonial architecture as we walk the cobblestone streets. Our tour leader also reveals the captivating tales and well-kept mysteries behind the street names and quaint squares.

Then dive into the local street food scene, showcasing the classic tastes of the city, including exotic fruits, fried foods, sweets, drinks and more. We learn about the origins of traditional dishes and discover the story behind each cook in a brief chat.

In the evening, we celebrate our adventures with a farewell meal, a chance to chat about our top moments from the trip and enjoy one last evening together.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation:Hotel 3 Banderas (or similar)

day 8 - Adventure Ends Cartagena

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.

Meals:Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodation

Meals

All breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner

Transport

All transport and listed activitiesGroup arrival and departure transfers available

Guide

Tour leader throughout

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

This tour has not received any customer reviews yet. However, you can expect a PremierThis travel specialist is consistently delivering tours which receive customer ratings above 4.8 on average. tour and service level as the travel specialist who runs it has received 11622 reviews for other tours with an average 4.8rating.

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 97+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 814 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Very quick to book. Nicely detailed daily intinerary. Thank you

21 hours ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Essential Colombia that you might like.

Cafe Colombia

Coffee lovers and culture seekers alike will be enchanted by "Cafe Colombia," a nine-day tour package that journeys from bustling Bogotá to the romantic streets of Cartagena. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in Colombia’s highland coffee region, exploring Salento’s tranquil hills and learning the art of coffee roasting on a working plantation. With a moderate activity pace, this trip is well-suited for travelers eager to balance exploration with relaxation. Discover Medellin’s vibrant nightlife, wander through colorful market towns, and soak up the Caribbean charm of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What makes this tour truly memorable is the hands-on experience of Colombia’s coffee culture—tasting, learning, and living the rhythms of daily life in the heart of the coffee triangle. It’s the perfect itinerary for anyone seeking both the urban delights and natural beauty that define Colombia’s renaissance.

9 days

Coastal Colombia

Looking for a well-rounded introduction to Colombia? This eight-day adventure delivers it all. Be captivated by Cartagena’s Old Town, laze on palm-fringed Caribbean beaches and meet the locals who make Colombia one of the world's friendliest countries. Hike jungle trails in Tayrona National Park, learn about Indigenous reforestation initiatives and dive into the bold flavours of Afro-Colombian cuisine on a tasting tour in Cartagena. If you’re looking for an offbeat experience full of nature, authentic food and local connection, Explore Colombia is right up there with the best of them.

8 days

Colombia - Lost City Trekking

5.0(8 reviews)

Have you ever dreamed of tracing lost civilizations? The "Colombia - Lost City Trekking" tour invites young adults and seasoned explorers alike to embark on a demanding 7-day journey through Colombia’s lush jungles, culminating in a rare visit to the fabled Ciudad Perdida (Lost City). Starting and ending in Santa Marta, this strenuous trekking adventure leads you through remote camps like Ricardito and Teyuna Paraiso, with expert local guides providing cultural insights every step of the way. As you navigate river crossings and dense rainforests, you’ll connect with Colombia’s vibrant heritage, learning about indigenous communities and their hidden histories. The highlight is exploring the Lost City itself—still uncrowded and mysterious, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience to marvel at ancient terraces and ruins far from the tourist crowds. This tour package is perfect for those who crave authentic adventure and cultural immersion. With all accommodation, transport, and meals included, you can focus on the trek and the thrill of discovery. The true standout of this trip is its exclusivity: few have set foot in this ancient city, making your journey not just a trek, but an extraordinary claim to "I got here first."

7 days

Journeys: Explore Colombia

5.0(12 reviews)

Colombia’s rich tapestry of mountains, coffee, and colonial charm comes alive on the "Journeys: Explore Colombia" tour, a 9-day moderate adventure for experienced travelers and seniors eager to experience culture and connection. Start in Bogotá, then wander the cobbled streets of Cartagena’s UNESCO-listed old town, and explore the lush coffee region of Armenia. Discover Medellín’s transformation as you visit its most notorious neighborhoods, connect with local artisans crafting coconut handicrafts, and soak up the rhythms of salsa that pulse through the air. Group accommodations, meals, and transport are all included, ensuring a comfortable and immersive trip. The tour’s unique selling point is authentic local interaction—offering travelers not just sights, but real insight into Colombia’s vibrant communities and traditions. Perfect for those who seek both adventure and meaningful cultural encounters.

9 days

Best of Colombia and the Coffee Triangle

Colombia’s vibrant culture and scenic diversity are front and center on the "Best of Colombia and the Coffee Triangle" tour, a 7-day city sightseeing journey for those eager to experience the country’s highlights at a relaxed pace. Start in Bogota, one of the world’s highest capitals, where top attractions include Plaza de Bolívar, La Candelaria, and the panoramic Monserrate Hill. Journey into the famed Coffee Triangle, immersing yourself in Colombia’s rich coffee heritage and lush landscapes. The trip concludes in Cartagena, a coastal gem known for its historic charm, lively Caribbean atmosphere, and unique lava beaches. This tour package’s unique feature is its focus on both urban exploration and the celebrated coffee culture, making it an ideal trip for travelers who want to savor Colombia’s best-kept secrets with all accommodations, meals, and transport arranged.

7 days

Colombian Highlights

From the vibrant streets of Bogota to the sun-soaked beaches of Cartagena, Colombian Highlights is a seven-day city sightseeing tour that captures the essence of Colombia’s diversity. Begin your journey in Bogota with a thrilling cable car ride to Monserrate Hill for panoramic city views, then explore centuries-old churches and cultural hotspots. In Medellin, the “City of Eternal Spring,” discover the city’s transformation and artistic spirit, before venturing to Penol Rock and the colorful lakeside village of Guatape. The trip culminates in Cartagena, where colonial charm meets Caribbean flair. Visit La Popa for sweeping vistas, relax on the beaches of Isla Grande, and absorb the vibrant rhythms of local festivals. The unique highlight of this small group tour package? A seamless blend of urban exploration, natural beauty, and cultural immersion—ideal for travelers eager to experience the real Colombia in just one week.

7 days

Lost City of Colombia - 8 days

For adventurous souls, the ‘Lost City of Colombia - 8 Days’ trekking holiday promises the ultimate challenge and reward. Embark on a 5-day trek through lush jungle and remote settlements to reach the fabled Ciudad Perdida, climbing 1,200 ancient stone steps to this mountaintop marvel. Overnight in rustic camps and unwind on Tayrona National Park’s pristine beaches. Suited to experienced and fit travelers, the trip’s strenuous pace is balanced by expert support and unforgettable scenery. The true highlight? The chance to uncover Colombia’s lost city—a rarely visited archaeological wonder deep in the wild.

8 days

Keep Exploring Colombia

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights