Colombia Uncovered
Colombia Uncovered
Colombia Uncovered
12 Days Starting in Medellín and ending in Cartagena
Visiting: Medellín, Santa Marta, Buritaca, Isla Tierra Bomba, Cartagena
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25356
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Beach Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Island Hopping, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Picture this: stunning hidden beaches, lush jungles, colourful cobblestoned cities, and a hybrid of old and new culture all in one incredible 10-day group trip! Immerse yourself in Medellin’s notorious history, wandering through streets laced with colourful art and travel the famous escalators into Comuna 13. Take in Colombia’s natural beauty from the top of El Penol Rock, get your coffee fix at a local coffee farm while learning about the coffee industry. Swap the city life and head deep into the jungle in search of Minca waterfall, surrounded by unique wildlife and immense mountains! Make a splash island hopping and riding the waves of the Caribbean - a water babies’ paradise. Cap off your adventure taking in the colonial architecture of Cartagena Old Town over a sunset cocktail.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Airport Pick Up
Location: Medellín
¡Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia! You’ve made it! Arrive any time at Jose Maria Córdova International Airport where we’ll pick you up. We already know you’re a legend because you’re joining a TruTravels tour so high fives at the ready! We'll pick you up from the airport and take you to our hotel in Medellin. Chill out, relax, chillax before we meet up later for a bite to eat and some welcome drinks! Limonada de cocos all round!
TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Day 2: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
GUATAPÉ & COFFEE FARM
Wake up and grab a world-famous Colombian coffee, you’re going to need it! We’re starting the day by climbing 650 stairs up to El Peñol Rock. We know what you’re thinking ‘That’s your exercise done for the month’. But the view from the top is next level, it’s unbelievable (that’s if you make it of course) but it’s one not to be missed! Afterwards, we head to Guatape, Colombia’s most colourful town and an Instagram hotspot for all of you who love a pic for the gram. Next, we head to a local coffee farm. The coffee industry is vital to the local community and it’s the country’s biggest export! Yes, it’s coffee..So get stuck in, learn about how they’re made, even try a cuppa or 2. It’s a brew-tiful day!
Day 3: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH
MEDELLIN HISTORY & CITY TOUR
It’s our second day and we’re throwing ourselves straight into Colombian culture as we explore Medellin! What better way to see the city than a city tour! Obviously. Medellin has transformed dramatically over the recent years to become one of the most popular cities to visit in South America! Go, Medellin! We’re heading over to the once-notorious Comuna 13, once known for being one of the most dangerous communities in the world, It has been completely transformed with famous street art paving the way for tourism today. Medellin’s rich city heritage can still be felt here but the lively neighbourhood and vibrant streets make it what it is today. Could we really walk past giant murals and not get a snap for the gram? Absolutely not! It’s a spectacle you’re gonna wanna remember! After an epic day, it’s time to grab dinner and drinks! Hey, we’ve done a lot of walking today so a beer or 6 are well deserved!
Day 4: Medellín/Santa Marta
Location: Medellín
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
FLY TO SANTA MARTA
Alexa play WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE. Today we’re swapping city life for the jungle! We catch a midday flight to Santa Marta where we’ll be for the next couple of nights! We stay at a funky quirky hostel, so spend some time chilling by the pool, challenge your fellow TruTraveller to a competitive game of snooker (loser buys the find round of course) or just take in the 10/10 good vibes. Santa Marta is a big backpacker area so the atmosphere is pretty lively! You know what that means.. We’re going out!
Day 5: Santa Marta
Location: Santa Marta
Meals Included: LUNCH
Breathtaking views? Stunning scenery? Oh, go on then! Today we jump aboard our transportation for the day and head deep into the Colombian Jungle to Minca. Wildlife, waterfalls and one hell of an experience! Minca is a nature lover's paradise, we really do take you off the beaten track and show you the hidden gems Colombia has to offer here. Spend the day bathing in Minca’s waterfall, grab your camera’s and get some shots of the local wildlife that are living harmoniously here. Next up, we we spend the afternoon relaxing at Sierra Minca. Sit back, watch the world go by as you look out into some of the best views of Colombia.. Treat yourself to a cocktail or 2 if you fancy it!
Day 6: Buritaca
Location: Buritaca
RIO BURITACA
We’ve hit up the city and driven through the jungle in jeeps. Next stop is our Jungle River spot! From now on, call us Mr Worldwide. We’re doing it all! We are heading to the refreshing waters of Rio Buritaca. Nah, call us Flashpackers today. Sip on a cocktail at the river bar, play a game of beach volleyball with the TruCrew and make the most of the hostel’s facilities before we freshen up. Tonight, it’s beers and bonfires! We can’t promise someone won’t bring out a drunken guitar singalong, but hey you’re on holiday!
Day 7: Buritaca
Location: Buritaca
RIVER TUBING BABY!
You've heard of hair of the dog right? It's only the best way to cure a hangover! Ok, maybe some people don't agree with that but today we’re grabbing the coolers and hitting the river!! Get your swimming costumes at the ready and grab a rubber ring and LET'S GO TruFam! Today we’re going tubing down the river, beer in hand, until we reach the beach, where the river ends. It's not a strenuous activity... so it's perfect to ease the hangover. It’s a hard life aye! So sit back, relax and watch the Colombian jungle pass you by while you do this must-do in Colombia! We end up on the beach just in time to watch sunset and enjoy some time on the beach during golden hour. Ultimate beach babe vibes.
Day 8: Buritaca/Isla Tierra Bomba
Location: Buritaca
Travel To Tierra Bomba
It’s an early start today so enjoy a spot of breakfast before we head to Tierra Bomba Island! We spend most of the day on the road, so don’t forget to download that R’n’B 90’s playlist you love so bad or make sure Friends is downloaded on Netflix to watch offline. Don’t do technology? Us either..(We’re just trying to stay down with the kids) Spend the day staring out at the spectacular views Colombia has to offer! Once we arrive to Isla Tierra Bomba, an island just 10 minutes away from Cartagena! Spend the next couples of nights on a unique hostel set deep in the mangroves overlooking the Caribbean sea with a back drop of the beautiful Cartagena city. Sit back, relax and take in your surroundings, you really are in paradise.
Day 9: Isla Tierra Bomba
Location: Isla Tierra Bomba
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
What is a TruTravels trip without a island hopping adventure? Today we’re heading off the beaten path on our very own private boat for a Caribbean boat tour extravaganza! Jump in, dive in maybe do a backflip! (Just kidding, we're responsible adults here) Take in the crystal clear waters, the marine life as we jump in to snorkel and swim. The waters warm, the sun is shining, nothing but good vibes and good company. We know, we’re cute. This is a secret paradise in Colombia. But lucky for you.. We’re in the know ;) Picture perfect.
Day 10: Isla Tierra Bomba/Cartagena
Location: Isla Tierra Bomba
We are headed to the highlight of the trip, Cartagena! Before then we will stop off at a local community project that collects and recycles plastics from beaches in the area. Olas Paz also focuses on creating recreational activities to promote peace in the local community. After returning from the well deserved relaxing island vibes we will explore the walled city of Cartagena in our orientation walk. We will see the colourful streets of Getsemaní, enjoy the street performers and wrap up the day in the Old Town city walls for drinks as we watch the sun go down. Will it be worth the wait? It’s SUN-believable ;)
Day 11: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
It’s our last full day together so take a few hours off to chill out. Recharge those batteries and freshen up before we head out OUT for our last night on the town together as TruFam on the Chiva party bus! We head into Old Town Cartagena, It’s full of rich history and culture, vibrant street life and 10/10 delicious food. Watch the sun go down, cocktail in hand and take in the surrounding you’re in. Could you get any better last night? Someone get the Guaro! *That’s a famous Colombia alcoholic shot, by the way* Guaro! Guaro! Guaro!
Day 12: Check Out
Location: Cartagena
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
CHECKOUT
Today is the end of our trip and it’s been a WILD one TruFam! Your Travel Ninja is on hand to help with any onward travel plans you may have. Hey if you’re so sad you just need a hug, they’re there for that too. We don't do goodbye’s very well so let's just say see you later, In a while crocodile. Hasta luego!
What's Included
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Medellin City Tour
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Guided Tours
Enjoy guided tours including Medellin City Tour, Comuna 13 Street Art, and Cartagena Old Town.
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Unique Experiences
Experience climbing El Peñol Rock, visiting Guatapé & a Local Coffee Farm, exploring Minca Waterfalls & Viewpoints, and an Island Hopping Adventure.
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Special Activities
Includes a surf lesson, a visit to Casa Elemento, and a getaway to Isla Roots Private Island.
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Transportation
Includes flight to Santa Marta, transfers to Viajero Tayrona and to a Private Island.
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Meals
5 breakfasts and 2 lunches are provided.
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Accommodation
Accommodations are included throughout the tour.
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Airport Pickup
Airport pickup from Jose Maria Córdova International Airport to the hotel in Medellin.
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Comuna 13 Street Art
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Climb El Peñol Rock
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
Visas required for entry into Colombia are not included and must be arranged by travelers themselves.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered, providing you the opportunity to explore local dining options.
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Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, or activities outside the planned itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended for all travelers to ensure peace of mind.
Meals Included
5 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a flight to Santa Marta, transfers to Viajero Tayrona, and to a Private Island, ensuring a seamless and adventurous journey through Colombia's stunning landscapes.
Accommodation
Accommodations throughout the tour ensure a comfortable and immersive experience, allowing travelers to rest and recharge in a variety of settings reflective of Colombia's diverse beauty.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are included in the Colombia Uncovered tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as guided tours of Medellin City and Cartagena Old Town, a climbing adventure on El Peñol Rock, visits to Guatapé & a local coffee farm, exploring Minca waterfalls & viewpoints, an island hopping adventure, a surf lesson, a visit to Casa Elemento, and a getaway to Isla Roots Private Island.
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Meals Included
5 breakfasts, 2 lunches
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Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
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Packing List
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.)
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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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Optional Activities
No optional activities
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Is airport pickup included in the tour package?
Yes, airport pickup from Jose Maria Córdova International Airport to the hotel in Medellin is included.
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Are there any meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes 5 breakfasts and 2 lunches.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
Accommodations throughout the tour are included, ensuring a comfortable stay for participants.
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What's Included
Medellin City Tour. Comuna 13 Street Art. Climb El Peñol Rock. Flight to Santa Marta. Guatapé & Local Coffee Farm. Minca Waterfalls & Viewpoints, Casa Elemento. Transfer to Viajero Tayrona. Surf Lesson. Transfer to Private Island. Isla Roots Private Island Getaway. Island Hopping Adventure. Cartagena Old Town.
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Are there any exclusions I should be aware of?
Yes, the tour does not include country entry visas, some meals to give you the opportunity to explore local dining options, personal expenses like souvenirs or activities outside the planned itinerary, and travel insurance.
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Will transportation be provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes flight to Santa Marta, transfers to Viajero Tayrona, and to a Private Island, ensuring seamless travel between destinations.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
No problem! You can change the date of your trip once free of charge as long as you do so more than 60 days prior to departure.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2012!
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We have a 'my own room' option which can be added on at additional cost.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
We will send you out a pre departure pack 30 days prior to travel containing everything you need to know, and your joining instructions.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
We plant 10 trees for every trip sold!
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The majority of our travellers are in their 20's / 30's however we aim to accept anyone of any age. Please do not be offended if we discuss the make-up of the trip with you prior to booking just to ensure you will be comfortable with the average age range that is already booked to travel.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It may be possible in certain destinations, however it would be your responsibility to get yourself to where the group currently is.
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Do you have age limits for your tours?
Most of the people that join us on tour are 18 to thirtysomethings. We have no strict upper age limit on our tours but all of our tours are specifically designed for those of this age group which is worth noting. Please do not be offended if we discuss the make-up of the trip with you prior to booking just to ensure you will be comfortable with the average age range that is already booked to travel.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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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
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