Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City

G Adventures · 22 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City
Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City
22 Days
From AUD $7199
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Demanding

Rating


(20 reviews)

Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City

Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City

G Adventures · 22 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Duration

22 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Budget

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Embracing nature in Colombia and the Caribbean is like nowhere else on Earth. Imagine picturesque beaches, busy cities, and the freshest coffee you’ve ever had.

Includes

Activities

  • Your G for Good Moment: Katanzama Community Visit, Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Foodie Moment: Coffee Farm Tour, Calarcá Your Discover Moment: Cartagena
  • Hacienda stay
  • Valle de Cocora hike
  • Medellín city tour
  • City tour in Cartagena
  • Tayrona National Park (excluding February departures) hike with local guide (5hrs)
  • Taganga Orientation Walk
  • Trek to the Lost City with an indigenous guide (5 days)
  • Guided tour of the Lost City
  • Internal flights
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotels/guesthouses (15 nts), hacienda (2 nts), camping (4 nts in hammocks or rustic bunks)
  • 21 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners

Transport

  • Plane, private van, public bus, 4x4, walking

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, indigenous local guides.

Highlights

  • Discover the different neighbourhoods of Bogotá
  • Savour the tastes and aromas of Colombian coffee
  • Learn about the history of Medellín
  • Relax on the beach in Santa Marta
  • Hike to the Lost City
  • Spend time with the Katanzama Indigenous community
  • Discover the beauty in Tayrona National Park
Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City

Trip Details

Duration

22 days

Transportation

Plane, private van, public bus, 4x4, walking

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bogotá, Colombia

Finishes

Santa Marta, Colombia

Accommodations

Budget

Travel Style

Classic, Budget

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Bogotá

Arrive at any time.
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.


Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Hotel Regina
2

Day 2: Bogotá/Armenia

Enjoy breakfast in Bogotá before boarding a flight to Armenia, in Colombia's coffee region. Spend two nights outside Armenia in a traditional hacienda.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Spend the night in a traditional hacienda (Spanish for "estate") and coffee farm and get a closer look at life in Colombia’s beautiful coffee region.Transport - Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.Accommodation - Hostal Mi Monaco
3

Day 3: Armenia

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Visit Armenia market before coffee farm tour in the Calarcá area to learn more about the coffee culture here.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the city's historic, bustling market centre. Frequented daily by Armenia's residents and chefs alike, Armenia Market offers everything from new-age ingredients to traditional Colombian staples. Get caught up in the whirlwind of food stalls, flower shops, boutiques and cafés before determining your route through the market to sample the best the city has to offer.Activity - Visit a local coffee farm to learn more about the production of this important crop, from the planting stage all the way to your coffee mug, and savour a taste of this famous export.Activity - Spend the night in a traditional hacienda (Spanish for "estate") and coffee farm and get a closer look at life in Colombia’s beautiful coffee region.Accommodation - Hostal Mi Monaco
4

Day 4: Armenia/Salento

Take a morning hike through the Cocora Valley before an afternoon arrival to Salento. Continue the full coffee experience in the region of Quindío.
Enjoy exploring Salento and getting a feel for the town.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Head into the Cocora Valley by private vehicle and take in the magnificent views. Get active with a hike through the area and learn more about this fertile region.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - El Rancho de Salento
5

Day 5: Salento/Medellín

Drive through beautiful landscapes to Medellín. Opt to explore the city in the evening.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Accommodation - Hotel Seven Inn Medellin
6

Day 6: Medellín

Enjoy a neighbourhood tour of the city and learn the fascinating recent history of the city's ongoing transformation. Spend the rest of the day with free time to explore this vibrant city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Really get to know Colombia’s second largest city with a neighbourhood tour. Medellín has been revitalized since the issues of the 80s and 90s and is now one of South America’s most innovative and artistic cities. Explore the city’s varied barrios filled with shops, green parks, museums, churches, markets, and delicious cuisine. Free_time - Opt to visit the famous rock El Peñol or hop on a sightseeing bus. Ride the MetroCable, part of Medellín’s public transportation, for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.Accommodation - Hotel Seven Inn Medellin
7

Day 7: Medellín

Enjoy another free day and opt to visit the nearby town of Guatapé, with its colourful houses and famous rock. Or ride the metrocable, a cable car part of Medellín's public transportation, for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy another full day to explore one of Colombia's most popular cities. Accommodation - Hotel Seven Inn Medellin
8

Day 8: Medellín/Cartagena

Hop on a morning flight to Cartagena and arrive in time to spend the afternoon exploring the old walled city. Opt for dinner and a night out in this lively town.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Accommodation - Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia
9

Day 9: Cartagena

Enjoy a free day exploring all Cartagena has to offer. Opt to enjoy the beautiful coast or explore the charming colonial city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore.Accommodation - Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia
10

Day 10: Cartagena

Enjoy a city tour, visiting the colonial walled city and fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time to take in the Caribbean vibe of the city and beach.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Learn more about Cartagena’s history from a bilingual guide on a tour of this lively city. Travel between sights by private transport and visit the clock tower, Plaza Bolivar, and the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. Take in sweeping views of the city from the hilltop Convento De La Popa and enjoy a walking tour from San Pedro Claver Church to Santo Domingo Church. Free_time - Get out and explore this vibrant colonial town. Refuel with some local fare—"patacones" or fried plantains are a must!Accommodation - Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia
11

Day 11: Cartagena/Minca

Travel to the small town of Minca, breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy free time to explore.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy free time to explore the lovely town of Minca. Go looking for unique birds, explore the area on foot or hang out at a local café by the river. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Minca La Casona
12

Day 12: Minca to Tayrona National Park Area

Leave Minca behind as the group heads into the Tayrona National Park area to spend the day visiting a nearby indigenous community. Gain insights into the rich traditional cultures of this region, and the Arhuacos. Enjoy a textile weaving demonstration by members of local families in the Katanzama community. Afterwards, transfer to your accommodations just outside Tayrona National Park, where you will have free time to enjoy the property and its amenities. Relax in a nearby hammock, find a local restaurant for dinner, and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit the Katanzama community, located 30 minutes from Tayrona National Park, near Buritaca. Made up of approximately 80 Arhuaco indigenous families, this unique experience invites you to connect with one of Colombia’s most resilient indigenous groups, who have preserved their customs and spiritual beliefs for decades. Upon arrival you will be welcomed into the ceremonial center to learn about the community’s spiritual connection to nature, their history of resistance, and their ongoing efforts to restore their ancestral land, and the area where coca and cacao are cultivated. Then, gather around for a traditional textile weaving demonstration which showcases an ancestral craft that carries deep cultural significance here. Your experience will be led by a local Arhuaco guide and after the community visit the group will sit down together for an included lunch. Your time here fosters cross-cultural understanding but also directly supports the economic and social development of the Katanzama community, ensuring that their traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.Transport - Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle from the nearby Indigenous community to the group's accommodations just 5-10 minutes away.Free_time - Lounge in a hammock on the hotel property or wander through the grounds admiring the thick green foliage and fragrant plants. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you please.Accommodation - Posada Villa Margarita
13

Day 13: Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Head into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike with a local guide. This is a perfect opportunity to experience nature and learn a little more about the rich, natural diversity of northern Colombia. Lunch is included during your hike. Afterwards, the group will travel the short distance to our nearby accommodations and spend free time unwinding after a full day of exploring this stunning national park.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Get outside with a hike into this beautiful park! Learn more about the rich diversity of Tayrona's natural heritage and explore Tayrona's gorgeous scenery with a local guide. Spend the night surrounded by nature in a lodge close to the park.Transport - Lace up your hiking boots and get to the next stop under your own power.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - This evening, enjoy the tranquil setting by walking toward the ocean, or relaxing on the property of the hotel.Accommodation - Posada Villa Margarita
14

Day 14: Tayrona National Park Area / Taganga

In the afternoon, travel from Tayrona to Taganga. Orientation walk with CEO upon arrival.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Take a CEO-led orientation walk of this traditional fishing village and get acquainted with the main sites.Free_time - Soak up the Caribbean feel of this coastal town with some free time. Be sure to indulge in the area's fantastic fresh seafood or hang out in one of the many cafés along the beachAccommodation - Ocean Taganga
15

Day 15: Taganga/Santa Marta

With a free day at leisure, tour Taganga by foot or don a snorkel and mask and explore the water. This evening, travel to Santa Marta and join your group for an optional evening out on the town.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Take advantage of free time in this coastal town by relaxing on the beach or exploring the waters with a snorkel.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Tayromar
16

Day 16: Santa Marta

Relax on the beautiful Caribbean coast in Santa Marta or go further afield to explore.
Use the day to soak up some sun or make any last minute purchases before starting the big trek.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore.Accommodation - Hotel Tayromar
17

Day 17: Santa Marta/Ricardito Camp

Wake up and hit the road to the village of El Mamey where your trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Enjoy and let it all soak in – this is your opportunity to get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The group will have lunch at the village and hike about 4 hours to the first basecamp.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.Activity - Leave Machete Pelao and start trekking through the jungle along the Buritaca River. Pass by farmland and get a glimpse into daily life in the small communities en route to the campsite. This first day of trekking is relatively straightforward and a good way to ease yourself into it. There is a combination of uphill and flat sections that lead the way to the first campsite. Continue uphill to reach Ricardito Camp, known locally as vista hermosa or beautiful view, sit back and soak them in. If the weather is right, sunsets and sunrises here are not to be missed. Total distance: 7.6 km.
18

Day 18: Ricardito Camp/Teyuna Paraiso Camp

Venture further into the lush jungle en route to Ciudad Perdida. Be prepared – today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep views. Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon for some much needed relaxation by the river.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Begin trekking alongside the Buritaca River early in the morning. Pass through more farmland used for growing coffee or raising cattle. Climbing on this part of the trek can be challenging as the route progresses uphill from the riverbed and through the humid jungle. Take a look at the unique, circular huts that make up some of the Kogi villages in the area. Total distance: 14.7 km
19

Day 19: Paraiso Camp to Mumake Camp

Wake up early feeling refreshed, recharged (hopefully!) and start your trek to La Ciudad Perdida. Climb the 1200 ancient steps and explore the different sacred sites of Lost City. Later, continue trekking through the deep jungle today on winding paths through banana trees and cacao plants as you make your way to Mumake Camp. The total hiking time today is 8 hours with about 3 hours to explore the Lost City.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - The once-forgotten city is only an hour away and to get there you must climb the 1,200 steps built by the ancient Tayrona people. This is a very steep climb, but the rewards of the climb are more than worth it. Once at the site, the guide will explain the history of the Lost City and what is known of its origins. It is estimated that only 10% of the site has been discovered. Head back to the campsite for lunch and a swim before beginning the trek back the way you came to Mumake Camp. Most of the trek today is downhill which can be hard on the knees, a walking stick might be useful. Total Distance: 8.6 km
20

Day 20: Mumake Camp to Las Cascadas Camp

The group will have an early departure from Mumake Camp. Hike past the village of El Mamey and arrive to Ricardito Camp where you'll have lunch and rest for the remainder of the day.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Head back along the same path through dense green jungle, pass by banana trees, Kogi communities, and grasslands. Continue uphill to reach Las Cascadas Camp, known locally as vista hermosa or beautiful view, sit back and soak them in. If the weather is right, sunsets and sunrises here are not to be missed. Total distance: 8.6 km
21

Day 21: Santa Marta

In the morning, take in your last views of the jungle as you trek back to Machete Pelao. Transfer to Santa Marta where the rest of the day is yours to relax.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.Activity - Continue the hike back down to Machete Pelao following the same route that you took in. The farmland will look familiar, but the scenery remains spectacular. Take in your last views of the jungle and local village life before heading back on the grid. Total distance: 7.6 kmAccommodation - Hotel Tayromar
22

Day 22: Santa Marta

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $7,199
(Tour only)
Per Person Standard

Duration: 22 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

Embracing nature in Colombia and the Caribbean is like nowhere else on Earth. Imagine picturesque beaches, busy cities, and the freshest coffee you’ve ever had.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 17 Oct 2026

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
5.0
David S.
Traveled, March 2024

04/23/2024

I loved Colombia! What a gem! thoroughly enjoyed my trip and wished I had left more time afterwards to explore. So I’m literally going back!

4.0
Sebastiaan V.
Traveled, March 2024

04/21/2024

The hike to the lost city was the highlight of my trip

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990