Natural Colombia - 18 Days
Bogota, Caño Cristales, Llanos – El Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve, Medellín, Pacific Coast – Playa Morromico, Guatape, Cartagena, La Boquilla
Colombia is a relatively small country, however its regions differ vastly, following this itinerary you will be able to glimpse a snapshot of some of its most diverse regions and be astounded at how there can be so much difference within one country. Starting in the capital city of Bogota you can get a feel for what life is like here, which will be hugely different to each of the other areas you visit. Fly out to the pristine “river of 5 colours” or “rainbow river” at Caño Cristales, hikes and boat rides around the La Macarena area make you feel like there is no one else around, it is a very special region. Continue onto the Llanos region, which is home to the Colombian “cowboys”, here you will be able to help out around the ‘ranch’ and get to know the country, farming life. You will then move to Medellin and witness the history and transformation of this modern city before flying to the Pacific Coast where the way of life is simple and easy, and they wouldn’t change it for the world. At Playa Morromico you will be in the best place to spot whales, and perhaps their calves. Finish off your time in Colombia in the Colonia city of Cartagena, it’s vibrant colours and friendly people will have you heading back home relaxed and amazed by everything you have experienced.
In Brief
Day 1: Arrival in Bogota and Transfer to Your Hotel
Day 2: Full Day Bogota Locals Walking Tour
Day 3: Transfer to Bogota Airport – Flight Bogota to La Macarena – Caño Cristales Activities
Day 4: Caño Cristales Activities
Day 5: Caño Cristales Activities – Flight La Macarena to Bogota – Transfer to Bogota Hotel
Day 6: Transfer to Bogota Airport – Flight Bogota to Yopal – El Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve Activities
Day 7: El Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve Activities
Day 8: El Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve Activities
Day 9: El Encanto de Guanapalo Nature Reserve Activities – Flight Yopal to Bogota – Transfer to Bogota Hotel
Day 10: Transfer to Bogota Airport – Flight Bogota to Medellin – Transfer to Medellin Hotel – Half Day Medellin Walking Tour
Day 11: Transfer to Medellin Airport – Flight Medellin to Nuqui – Playa Morromico Activities
Day 12: Playa Morromico Activities
Day 13: Playa Morromico Activities
Day 14: Playa Morromico Activities – Flight Nuqui to Medellin – Transfer to Medellin Hotel
Day 15: Full Day Guatape Tour
Day 16: Transfer to Medellin Airport – Flight Medellin to Cartagena – Transfer to Cartagena Hotel – Half Day Cartagena Walking Tour
Day 17: Full Day La Boquilla Fishing and Cooking Tour
Day 18: Transfer to Cartagena Airport – Departure
- 18 Days / 17 Nights
- Group Size: Customised Itinerary for You
- Accommodation: Hand-Picked Hotels
- Start: Bogota, Colombia
Finish: Cartagena, Colombia
Included
- 17 Nights Accommodation
- All Breakfasts
- 11 Lunches
- 8 Dinners
- Domestic Flights as Mentioned
- English and Spanish Speaking Guides
- Private & Shared Tours
- Private Transfers
- In Country English or Spanish Speaking 24 Hour Assistance
Not included
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
- Meals not Mentioned
- Personal Expenses
- Additional Entrances not Specified in the Itinerary
Day by Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Bogota and Transfer to your Hotel
Welcome to Bogota and welcome to Colombia!
After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, make your way out of the arrivals area of the airport. You will find your guide and driver waiting for you with a sign with your name on it. They will accompany you to your hotel, which will take approximately 30 minutes. Whilst travelling to your hotel feel free to ask your guide any questions you may have, they will give you a brief orientation of the area you’ll be staying.
Overnight in Bogota
Day 2: Historical and Cultural Walking Tour
Your private guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel for a Historical Walking tour. During this tour you will be able to discover what it is like to be a local living and going about their day in the centre of Bogota. The walking tour will take you through the most authentic places in the city, along with seeing some of the tourist sights.
The Colonial district of La Candelaria will have your head spinning as you turn this way and the other to catch all the street art and unique pieces of art all around. Bogota’s historical centre will give you an insight into how things have come to be in this modern day. There are many squares and markets to visit and explore.
This morning’s walk will give you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and to understand the way of life of the people of Bogota.
In the after you will visit some of the more touristy sights, such as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, where you’ll be able to admire the masterpieces of the renowned Colombian painter and sculptor.
During the day you will stop for lunch, a recommendation for local food of Bogota is Ajiaco, a hearty soup with interesting sides.
Overnight in Bogota
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Flight to La Macarena (Caño Cristales) and Experience a River Safari by Boat
Very early this morning you will be collected by a private driver and transferred to Bogota airport. You will be flying from Bogota to the area of Caño Cristales.
Caño Cristales is an exceptional and surprising natural site, one of the most beautiful in the world. Its unique ecosystem is fragile and is now part of the PNN Sierra del la Macarena. Its cascades and rocks offer a colourful show linked to its prehistoric yellow, red, green and blue aquatic plants.
Caño Cristales tours are all done as a shared group, the programme can be modified depending on the number of tourists in the area on any given day.
This morning you will need to be at Bogota airport at 5am (time subject to change). You will be met by a person in green welcoming you, at door 9 on the second floor.
Note: You will travel in a small aeroplane. Everything will be weighed prior to boarding, including you with your luggage. Your luggage can be no more than 10 kgs. We are able to store luggage and belongings in Bogota so you only take with you what is necessary for your time in Caño Cristales.
Flight: Bogota -> La Macarena
On arrival in the village of La Macarena you will first listen to talk about environment practices in the area and those which apply to the sights around Caño Cristales.
Note: things to know before going. No single-use plastics can be taken into the area and no sunscreen is allowed to be worn when going walking or anywhere near the river and cascades.
You will be then transported to your hotel, you will have time to settle in before lunch.
After lunch, experience your first steps in the natural wonderland of this area by taking a 20 min boat trip on the Guayabero River. Enjoy the landscape and keep your eyes alert to spot local flora and fauna (birds, turtles and other animals of the region). The group will then go on a small walk to discover specific sights, such as Cristalitos. You’ll return to La Macarena, and have free time in the town and your hotel until dinner.
Overnight in La Macarena
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Notes for packing: A good pair of shoes to walk two days on wet paths. An additional pair of shoes for the night and the afternoon. Wear wide/loose, light clothes to avoid mosquito bites, and it’s better if the clothes dry quickly. Cap or hat to protect from the sun. Plastic bottles are prohibited on-site, better take a flask/metal bottle (min 1L of water per person and per day). Rainwear, swimsuit. A small backpack convenient for walking.
Day 4: Visit Caño Cristales Park
An early breakfast and departure are in order today to explore the Caño Cristales park. Again you’ll be transported by motorboat on the Guayabero River and then start an ecological hike in the area of Caño Cristales. All hikes are selected by the Natural Park or Coormacarena (the organisation in charge of the Natural Park). You should have spectacular views of the colours of the river today, if the sun is shining in the right area it can light up all the colours magnificently. It’s a very peaceful and majestic area which will fill you full of good spirits and have you relaxed. There are opportunities to swim in the clear pools, so ensure you always have swimwear with you.
You’ll have lunch in the Caño Cristales park before heading back to La Macarena village.
In the evening, enjoy local cuisine and find out more about the culture of the area through a local folkloric show including music and dance. Afterward the hall comes alive with everyone dancing together in the local style.
Overnight in La Macarena
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5: Flight to Bogota
Depending on your flight time today, and direction, you may have a chance to go back out on the river or explore Caño Cristales park or a different area in La Macarena, there is so much untouched nature to explore in this area.
After lunch you will take your flight back to Bogota where your private driver will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, or to explore. Your guide can give you some pointers.
Flight: La Macarena -> Bogotá
Overnight in Bogota
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Day 6: Flight to Yopal (Llanos) and Experience Ranch Life
Returning to Bogota Airport this morning, you are setting off on another adventure.
This time to the eastern Llanos area, or the Colombian savannah. Llanos, well-known for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets, the region is also famous for its great variety of wildlife, including capybaras, anacondas, caiman, pumas and many different bird species. The region benefits from a strong ‘cowboy’ culture. They live in big ranches called ‘Los Hatos’, sometimes spread over thousands of square metres. During this trip, you will discover the Natural Reserve of Encanto de Guanapalo which includes three ‘hatos’: Mata de Palma, Altamira and Montana.
Encanto de Guanapalo Natural Reserve and Cunaguaro Foundation work together to preserve the local wildlife. As a result, the variety and number of animals living in the Reserve has increased in the last couple of years, and so have the chances of seeing them.
Flight: Bogota -> Yopal
Note: baggage weight limit is 23 kg. Any additional weight will be paid at the airport, subject to carrier fees.
On arrival in Yopal a representative from Encanto de Guanapalo will greet you and transfer you to the ranch. A biosafety protocol briefing will be given as it is very important to maintain the environment in these areas. You’ll be offered a snack whilst you are welcomed and will meet your Criollo guide who will share the history of the area and give you more information. He will share with you the history of the herds, how they came together and formed the Reserva Natural El Encanto de Guanapalo. You’ll then enjoy the first experience of the trip, a guided walk through the ecological trails where you’ll have a brief overview of the herd and appreciate the magical landscapes with the rich flora and fauna that the nature reserve possesses.
Back at the ranch, you’ll enjoy a delicious Creole lunch, followed by time to relax in a hammock under a mango or Cruceto tree.
In the afternoon you’ll leave for your first horseback safari in the flooded savannahs. On this ride you’ll see the abundance of biodiversity in the reserve such as birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and fish, all in their natural environment. During the excursion you’ll share a typical snack called ‘bastimento’ llanero.
Returning to the ‘Hato’, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking sunset with dazzling colours. Before experiencing the best of outdoor dining, with a view to the ravine, whilst enjoying a traditional dinner.
Overnight in Llanos
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Note: The programme will be modified according to the climatic conditions/weather and water level at the time of the trip. Activities such as canoeing and morning milking cannot be carried out in summer, they will be replaced by hikes, gastronomic workshops and crafts.
Day 7: Continue Ranch Life in Llanos
As is typical on a ranch, you will wake and get started early this morning. With a typical Llanero coffee and a typical break called amasijo, you’ll go out to watch the sunrise. Your guide will take you through a typical Llanero herd experience, experience a morning of milking and working the corral accompanied by cowboy songs to enhance this ancestral work. Learn how to milk a tame cow, rope a foal, brush it and care for it. By this time you will have worked up a hunger for breakfast, so you’ll return to the Hato to enjoy a typical Llanero breakfast with ‘hayaca’, pine nuts, ‘torrejas’ and olive oil.
After breakfast, take a ‘curiara’ (canoe) ride in the reserve’s streams (depending on season), where you’ll enjoy the calm waters and the sound of birds accompanying you. You’ll also have the chance to try artisanal fishing, a traditional practice, practised by the Llanerso with hooks and bait. During this excursion you will find time to relax and sample some more typical snacks.
Lunch will be in the shade of the old town church before you head off to visit the other two Hatos that make up the Nature Reserve. Bouncing along in 4WD vehicles is the only way to get around and marvel at the scenery and wildlife to be found along the way.
While enjoying another magnificent sunset you will return to the Hato for this evening’s open-air dining experience. Tales of myths, omens and legends will be regaled by the ‘Baquianos’ around the warmth of a campfire. The cowboys telling their stories and reminiscing of the traditions and memories of their beloved region.
Overnight in Llanos
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8: Continue Ranch Life in Llanos
Today will be another full day of “working on the ranch”, and exploring and observing the local wildlife. Today’s mission, to find and catch a glimpse of the mythical anaconda, often talked about but rarely seen.
There are many activities and excursions on the ranch and options will be given whilst there to ensure the best of the area is visited.
Overnight in Llanos
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 9: Flight to Bogota
Rising early you can admire the sunrise this morning then take a short walk through the savannah and the woods to observe local fauna and the beautiful Llanero landscape.
Continue with your relaxing morning with another traditional breakfast and enjoy these last moments in the Reserve.
Around midmorning you will be taken to Yopal where you’ll have lunch. Before heading to the airport, spend some time visiting the handicraft stores and explore the city of Yopal. You’ll then be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Bogota.
Flight: Yopal -> Bogota
Note: baggage weight limit is 23 kg. Any additional weight will be paid at the airport, subject to carrier fees.
On arrival in Bogota you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Overnight in Bogota
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Flight to Medellin and Comuna 13 History and Transformation Tour
Transfer by private vehicle to the airport in Bogota for your 1 hour flight to Medellin.
Flight: Bogota -> Medellin
Note: baggage weight limit is 23 kg. Any additional weight will be paid at the airport, subject to carrier fees.
On arrival in Medellin you will be met by your guide and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. During this trip you can discuss the timing of your half day tour of Comuna 13.
Comuna 13 is pivotal in the education of history and culture in Medellin, your tour today will take in the history and transformation of this city.
About 25 years ago, Medellin was one the most dangerous cities in the world. Today, the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ is one of the most innovative metropolises in the world! Learn more about this spectacular transformation while discovering the neighbourhood known as Comuna 13 and its street art.
This symbolic neighbourhood has become a big open-air project, valuing the change in its society. The programmes initiated by the residents of the popular neighbourhood are becoming more and more innovative.
Comuna 13’s graffiti depicts daily life in this area. The richness of history and transformation will help you understand the importance of street art for social communication and identity.
During this tour you will use many forms of transportation, such as taxi, metro, cable car, on foot and even escalators.
Overnight in Medellin
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Flight to Nuqui, gateway to the Pacific Coast, and Transfer to Playa Morromico
You will be transferred by private vehicle to the smaller (and closer) airport in Medellin, for your flight to Nuqui.
Medellin -> Nuqui
Note: baggage weight limit is 15 kg. Any additional weight will be paid at the airport, subject to carrier fees. Luggage can be stored at your hotel for your return.
On arrival in Nuqui you will be met and greeted, then transferred by boat to Playa Morromico.
Today will be a day to rest and explore the hotel and its surroundings. You will be advised the timings of meals as lunch and dinner will be taken at the hotel.
Morromico (whales) – the Chocó region is an untouched and wild part of Colombia’s lesser known Pacific coast. You will have the chance to explore its rich biodiversity during your stay on Playa Morromico, close to Nuqui.
In season you will delight in seeing whales breaching and playing just off the beach. Other than whales, there are many different plant, animal and bird species to spot in this remote and basic area. It is a real chance to immerse yourself in nature.
Overnight in Playa Morromico
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Note: Tourism Tax ($30,000 COP) along with services and fees not specified in the program must be paid locally.
Day 12: Rainforest Hike and Whale Watching
After breakfast, with your guide, you will set off on a 2 hour walk through the tropical rainforest. Discover the flora and observe the venomous Cocoi frog (Oophaga histriónica).
Return to the hotel for lunch and in the afternoon you will depart for your first whale watching experience.
Every year, these wonderful mammals ride along the South American coasts from the south to the north, looking for quieter waters for their offspring. Between June and September, the Colombian Pacific Coast is an ideal place for whale watching as they are attracted by the deep and peaceful waters of the area.
You will return to the hotel, after your wonderful experience, for dinner and the evening.
Overnight in Playa Morromico
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 13: Visit Embera Indigenous Community
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before leaving Playa Morromico by boat. Passing through mangroves you will come to the indigenous community of Emberá. You will visit this community, see how they live their lives in this remote area of Colombia, visit their village and talk with the local people. This is a great opportunity to see yet another local village and how they live and the adaptations that use to make their lives easier, and which traditions they hold onto strongly.
Once you have spent time in this community we will say our goodbyes and return back to Playa Morromico in time for lunch.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and enjoying the exceptional setting of this hotel, overlooking the beach and the ocean.
Overnight on Playa Morromico
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Note: timing of the activity (morning or afternoon) will depend on the tide.
Day 14: Return to Nuqui and Flight to Medellin
It is time to farewell your beach paradise. After breakfast you will be transferred by boat to Nuqui airport for your return flight to Medellin.
Flight: Nuqui -> Medellin
Note: baggage weight limit is 15 kg. Any additional weight will be paid at the airport, subject to carrier fees.
On arrival in Medellin, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. There are many trendy cafes, restaurants and artisanal products to explore in Medellin, it is a city reborn. If you have the desire, you should get out and explore, taste the flavours around you.
Overnight in Medellin
Meals: Breakfast
Day 15: Visit El Peñol and Guatape
Leaving Medellin for the day, after breakfast, you will head to a town called Guatape. Starting your visit you will go to El Peñol, where you’ll have the opportunity to climb the many steps of the enormous boulder that dominates the region. If you are able to make it, and along the way, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the entire lagoon in front of you. With shaking legs you come down the stairs and you will continue your visit to this area.
Guatape is a colourful and quaint village known for its decorative walls and beautiful church in the central square. Take the opportunity to stroll through the cobblestone streets of the gorgeous lakeside town. Guatape has been called a natural and environmental heritage site of Colombia.
After a full day visit you will return to your hotel in Medellin for the evening.
Overnight in Medellin
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Day 16: Flight to Cartagena
This morning you will be transferred back to the main airport of Medellin for your flight to Cartagena.
Flight: Medellin -> Cartagena
Note: baggage weight limit is 23 kg. Any additional weight will be paid at the airport, subject to carrier fees.
On arrival in Cartagena you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the Historic centre of this gorgeously colourful Colonial city.
Cartagena is a beautiful city full of Colonial era colourful houses and lively squares. Follow the footsteps of famous pirates and experience the exotic mix of heritage and cultural richness. The “Pearl of the Caribbean” will fascinate you and draw you in, making you want more.
Cartagena is an easy city to walk around, lose your way and be happy you did! So you will set off on foot for a walking tour. You’ll walk in the colonia district of San Diego and Santo Domingo, passing through the Plaza de los Coches, the Plaza de la Aduana, the Parque Bolivar, the Gold Museum, the Plaza de Santa Teresa, the Palace of Inquisition and the famous walls surrounding the old city and the Vaults. There is much to see and you will marvel at it all, spending the time you need to absorb just a little of the vibe of the city.
Overnight in Cartagena
Meals: Breakfast
Day 17: La Boquilla Fishing Trip
After breakfast today head off on a unique fishing experience. This trip is a must, not only for people who enjoy fishing, but for those who are passionate about adventure and local culture. You will depart early and make your way to La Boquilla, which is a fishing village where an Afro-Cartagenian community lives. While in La Boquilla you fishermen will share their fishing techniques, including how to catch crab and how to throw nets. You will then discover the secrets of Caribbean cuisine and learn how to cook fish and crab with coconut rice. The excursion will bring you close to the local people as the fishermen regale stories of their trips out to provide for their families and village. Learn cooking skills to take home and see how the people of this area live in their village.
Overnight in Cartagena
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Day 18: Departure from Cartagena
Enjoy your last morning waking up in this beautiful city before a private transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Sadly your arrangements with Real Local Experiences, and your time in Colombia has come to an end.
You will take home with you memories of a lifetime, many photos and perhaps a few great souvenirs!
