Journeys: Explore Colombia
Journeys: Explore Colombia
Journeys: Explore Colombia
9 Days Starting in Bogotá and ending in Cartagena
Visiting: Bogotá, Armenia, Medellín, Cartagena
Tour operator:
Tour code:
24933
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Luxurious mountains, quaint colonial towns, irresistible coffee—discover Colombia’s abundant charms on this incredible journey. Observe the rebirth of Medellín’s most notorious neighbourhood; wander the cobblestoned streets of Cartagena, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site; and venture into the picturesque coffee growing region of Armenia. Round out your experience alongside local artisans who turn coconuts into handicrafts, and sway to this South American nation’s infectious rhythms of salsa.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Bogotá
Location: Bogotá
Accommodation: GHL Collection 93
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Modern Bogotá offers visitors a wide variety of activities combined with the picturesque beauty of its cultural and architectural past. Colonial churches and pre-Columbian art contrast with the futuristic high-rise buildings of a busy metropolis.
If you arrive early, take a walk around some of the interesting neighbourhoods including La Candelaria, La Macarena, Parque de la 93, La Zona T, La Zona Rosa (bars and restaurants), La Zona G (international cuisine), or visit the Monserrate Santuary and enjoy great views of the city.
Additional Information: We recommend booking pre- or post-accommodation to experience all this city has to offer.
Hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Colombia (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Day 2: Bogotá/Armenia
Location: Bogotá
Accommodation: Hacienda La Combia
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Catch a flight to Armenia, one of Colombia’s coffee capitals. Head to a small, family-run coffee farm in nearby Montenegro, and meet with a coffee expert to learn about the different stages of coffee production, from bean to cup. Continue on to a traditional hacienda on a working coffee farm, where we’ll spend two nights.
Additional Information: The Hacienda is simple, with small rooms and few amenities, it also is common to have hot water shortages. While basic, the stunning location and natural beauty more than makes up for a few minor inconveniences.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
ACTIVITY: Immerse yourself into coffee culture with a visit to a family-run working coffee farm. Spend the afternoon with a coffee expert learning the processes of plant growth, reproduction, harvest, post harvest, and drying. This hands-on experience allows us insight into why Colombian coffee is considered some of the best in the world.
Day 3: Armenia
Location: Armenia
Accommodation: Hacienda La Combia
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER
Set out on a full-day excursion to Salento, a charming coffee-growing town set amid verdant mountains, and venture to the nearby Cocora Valley for a hike. This breathtaking protected landscape harbours groves of gigantic wax palm, Colombia’s national tree and the tallest type of palm in the world. Later, during an immersive coffee tasting, sip espresso and watch a demonstration of latte art by a local barista. Then enjoy free time to explore Salento, strolling its quaint streets and browsing the local craft stalls.
ACTIVITY: Visit Salento, a charming town typical to Colombia’s coffee region, and enjoy hiking the beautiful landscape of the Cocora Valley. Spend the rest of your visit strolling the quaint streets of Salento—this is a great place to appreciate traditional architecture and shop for gifts.
ACTIVITY: Continue our coffee immersion with a visit to a speciality coffee shop. Here we embark on a sensory exercise to understand the difference between high quality coffees and commercial coffees, an espresso tasting and the correct preparation of a milk-based coffee where the barista demonstrates the proper art of the latte. This hands-on experience allows us to understand why Colombian coffee is considered some of the best in the world and better understand the part it plays in the culture of this region. And finally, a tasting of the various brews will round out our day.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy some free time to explore the town.
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.
Day 4: Armenia/Medellín
Location: Armenia
Accommodation: Ecohub Hotel
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
This morning, fly to Medellín. Surrounded by lush hills and fragrant flower farms, this thriving city is currently in the midst of a resurgence. Settle into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 5: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Accommodation: Ecohub Hotel
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Alongside a local guide, embark on an eye-opening tour of Comuna 13—formerly one of Colombia’s most dangerous neighbourhoods. Ride on the cable cars and outdoor escalators that span the sprawling hillside, and learn how public transport and art and music programs have transformed the area into a peaceful, vibrant community. Afterward, opt for a historical tour of Medellín, visit some of the city’s museums, or go shopping.
ACTIVITY: Discover another side of Medellín as you travel on the city’s innovative transportation system and head to Comuna 13 – a community transformed. Once controlled by the cartels, this community is a shining example of Colombia's progress in overcoming its notorious past. Meet a local guide and begin the journey upward with a ride on the city’s unique public cable cars. Head farther up the hillside to the outdoor electric escalators that serve Comuna 13. The extensive escalator system has renewed the impoverished district, which clings to a steep hillside, and provided much relief to residents whose daily commutes have become safer and faster. Arrive at the top to explore this welcoming and safe urban neighbourhood and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Free time to explore the city or set out on an optional excursion.
Day 6: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Accommodation: Ecohub Hotel
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Enjoy a free day to continue exploring Medellín. Choose to visit nearby Guatapé, located on the shores of a scenic reservoir. Wander amid the town’s brightly decorated houses, and opt to climb a steep flight of stairs to the summit of El Peñol, a towering monolith that affords breathtaking views of the reservoir’s sparkling waters and lush green isles.
FREE TIME: Get out and explore this vibrant city!
Day 7: Medellín/Cartagena
Location: Medellín
Accommodation: Armeria Real Hotel
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Catch a flight to the fabled city of Cartagena, perched on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. In the afternoon go on an excursion to the nearby beach of La Boquilla and visit an arts workshop run by women who transform coconuts into jewellery, crafts, and other art. As we listen to their stories and learn their techniques, try your hand at creating a souvenir out of natural materials. Later, head to the Oh La La Restaurant for a hands-on cooking class. As we learn to make Caribbean and Colombian specialities, hear how the restaurant amplifies cooking traditions while working with household mothers and small market producers.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
ACTIVITY: Visit Oh La La Restaurant in the Getsemani neighbourhood for a hands-on cooking class. Learn to make Caribbean–Colombian specialities with the experts, hear how the restaurant amplifies cooking traditions while working with household mothers and small market producers. After, enjoy your creations for dinner.
ACTIVITY: The project DAMARTES (Damas y Madres del Arte – ‘Women and Mothers of Art’) is an association composed of mothers and grandmothers who in 2008, took part in a crafts workshop sponsored by the foundation ProBoquilla. They have now started their own social enterprise producing jewelry, vases, art and accessories out of coconuts. Meet these incredible women and join them in a Coconut Workshop located on the beach of La Boquilla.
Day 8: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation: Armeria Real Hotel
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Enjoy a walking tour of Cartagena. Visit the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, discovering atmospheric plazas, soaring churches, and important historic landmarks. Spend the rest of the day on your own soaking up the tropical charm of Cartagena. Opt to visit Cartagena’s Gold Museum, showcasing intricate pre-Colombian ornaments and pottery, or choose to learn the basics of Colombian salsa, known as Cali style, during a private lesson with two local dancers.
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 tropical city.
Day 9: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Meals
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners -
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Medellín Community Walk, Medellín
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Cartagena city tour
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Your Foodie Moment: Colombian Coffee Immersion and Tasting, Salento
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Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Colombian Coffee Farm Visit, Salento
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Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Coconut Workshop, Cartagena
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Your Foodie Moment: Colombian Caribbean Cooking Experience, Cartagena. Arrival transfer.
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Arrival transfer
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Coffee tasting
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All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
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Internal flights
What's Not Included
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International Travel
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Tipping and Gratuities
Transport
Bus, private vehicle, jeep, plane, walking.
Group Size
Max 15, Avg 6.
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts), hacienda/farm (2 nts).
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Check out our Q&As
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Max Pax
Max 16, avg 12
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My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
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What to Take
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. Remember that although near the Equator, the higher altitude on some parts of the trip makes for cool evenings and you will need a warm sweater or pullover. It’s best to layer clothes rather than bring a heavy parka so that you can take layers off. We recommend the use of a medium-sized duffel bag, soft rolling bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
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Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
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Tipping
It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $40-50 USD per person, per week can be used.
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Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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Trip Specific Safety
Please take care when wandering about the main cities on your own, as pickpockets and purse-snatchers are common. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveller’s cheques and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Colombianos are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!
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A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trip. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular, the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
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Packing List
Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Hand sanitizer (required) • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
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Money Exchange
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).
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Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
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Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion, it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
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Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
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Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
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Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However, it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
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Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
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Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
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Optional Activities
Cerro Nutibara - Nutibara Hill (Cerro Nutibara) Visit Medellín - Santa Fe de Antioquia Visit - Medellín City Tour (35USD per person) - Guatapé Dam Visit - El Peñol Stone (La Piedra Del Peñol) Visit Cartagena - Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno) Visit (5000COP per person) - Palace of Inquisition (Museum) Visit (30000COP per person) - Gold Museum Visit (7000COP per person) - Salsa Dance Class - Night Exploration on Chiva (80000COP per person) Playa Blanca - Playa Blanca Visit
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Highlights
Immerse yourself in Armenia's coffee culture, Visit the transformed Comuna 13 neighbourhood, Explore the historical highlights of Cartagena, Take some time to explore the culinary specialities of the region
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Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
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What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Colombian Coffee Farm Visit, Salento Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Medellín Community Walk, Medellín Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Coconut Workshop, Cartagena Your Foodie Moment: Colombian Coffee Immersion and Tasting, Salento Your Foodie Moment: Colombian Caribbean Cooking Experience, Cartagena. Arrival transfer. Excursion to Salento and Cocora Valley. Coffee tasting. Cartagena city tour. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
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Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
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Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent. An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous. Our driver will be waiting for you with a National Geographic Journeys sign, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
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Group Size Notes
Max 15, Avg 6.
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Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts), hacienda/farm (2 nts).
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Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
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Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
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Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE: Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE: FREE BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE 1PC: BAGGAGE: 50LB / 23KG AND 62LI / 158LCM (1 Piece, 23 kilograms or 50 Pounds and 158 linear centimeters or 62 linear inches) CARRYON HAND BAGGAGE: 10KG / 22LB AND 45LI / 115LCM (1 Piece, 10 kilograms or 22 Pounds and 115 linear centimetres or 45 linear inches)
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Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
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Group Leader Description
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, known as a CEO (Chief Experience Officer). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
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Joining Hotel
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
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Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
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Transport
Bus, private vehicle, jeep, plane, walking.
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Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
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Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
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Departure Tax
USD $33
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
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Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Office Quito, Ecuador During office hours (Weekdays 9am-6pm Local Time) From outside Ecuador: +593 2250 6610 From within Ecuador: 022 506 610 After hours Emergency number From outside Ecuador: +51 997 582 712 (whatsapp available) From within Ecuador: +51 997 582 712 (whatsapp available) If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
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Finishing Point Instructions
If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.