Updated on 04/04/2024
Hello,
I’m Frank, the proud owner of a leading tour operator located in Bogota, committed to curating bespoke and opulent travel experiences across Colombia.
As you peruse this guide, look forward to uncovering a collection of supplementary and invaluable travel itineraries to enhance your exploration of Colombia.
Content
Colombia Trip Summary
Day 1 – Bogota
Day 2 – Bogota – Leticia
Day 3 – Leticia – Puerto Narino
Day 4 – Puerto Narino
Day 5 – Puerto Narino
Day 6 – Puerto Narino – Leticia – Bogota – Caldas
Day 7 – Caldas
Day 8 – Caldas – Nevado del Ruiz – Caldas
Day 9 – Caldas
Day 10 – Caldas – Riohacha
Day 11 – Riohacha – Cabo de la Vela
Day 12 – Cabo de la Vela – Punta Gallinas
Day 13 – Punta Gallinas – Mayapo
Day 14 – Mayapo – Santa Marta
Day 15 – Santa Marta – Tayrona Park – Santa Marta
Day 16 – Santa Marta – Taironaka – Santa Marta
Day 17 – Santa Marta – Rincon del Mar
Day 18 – Rincon del Mar
Day 19 – Rincon del Mar
Day 20 – Rincon del Mar – Departure
Planned Places/Cities
Bogota
Bogotá is Colombia’s capital and has over 10 million inhabitants. It is Colombia’s political, economic, cultural, and tourist center, accounting for most of the national GDP. It is the third-highest capital city in South America as it sits on over 2.600 meters (8.600 feet) above sea level. With average temperatures of 7°C – 20°C (45°F – 60°F), the climate varies between cold to temperate. Bogotá has an area of 1.775 km2 (685 Square miles), which is more than twice the size of Singapore. It was founded in 1.538 by the Spaniards but was already inhabited by the Pre-Muiscas. Most of the tourist attractions are in the historic center “La Candelaria”. The city’s wide cultural offer represented in museums, theaters and libraries has granted it the name of “the South American Athens”. Some important places to visit in Bogotá are Monserrate Monastery, Gold and Botero Museums, “Paloquemao” and “La Perseverancia” food markets.
Guatavita
The municipality of Guatavita – Cundinamarca 53 km northeast of Bogota is recognized for giving rise to the most representative legend of Colombia, one of the most important in the world and Cultural Heritage of the Nation “The story of the Legend of El Dorado”. It is the religious, cultural and ancestral capital of the Muisca people. In Guatavita there is “Guatavita the Origin of the Legend” an area of 13.8 ha, consisting of a historic center with high heritage value and a cultural and tourist development polygon on the banks of the Tominé reservoir.
Zipaquira
Zipaquirá is a historic and enchanting town located in the Cundinamarca Department of Colombia, approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles) north of Bogotá, the capital city. This charming town is famous for its awe-inspiring underground salt cathedral and well-preserved colonial architecture.
The Salt Cathedral is the primary attraction of Zipaquirá and a marvel of engineering and faith. Carved inside the tunnels of a salt mine, the cathedral is an underground sanctuary with impressive salt sculptures, religious artwork, and an ethereal atmosphere. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a masterpiece of Colombian architecture.
Zipaquirá’s historical center features well-preserved colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming squares. Visitors can stroll through the town’s quaint streets and admire its colonial architecture, including the main square, Plaza de los Comuneros.
In addition to its colonial heritage, Zipaquirá has pre-Columbian archaeological sites, such as the ancient Muisca settlement of El Abra, which offers insights into the region’s indigenous history.
Amazonas
The Department of Amazonas is one of Colombia’s most remote and least populated regions, located in the southernmost part of the country. As its name suggests, the department is predominantly covered by the vast Amazon Rainforest, making it a biodiverse and ecologically significant area. Here is an overview of the Colombian Department of Amazonas:
Amazonas is characterized by its dense rainforests, lush jungles, and meandering rivers. The department is part of the larger Amazon Basin, one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. The area is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as jaguars, pink river dolphins, and various species of monkeys.
Amazonas is inhabited by indigenous communities, including the Ticuna, Yucuna, Huitoto, and others, each with their distinct cultures, languages, and traditions. These indigenous groups have lived in harmony with the rainforest for generations and play a crucial role in preserving the region’s cultural heritage and natural resources.
Due to its remote location and challenging terrain, Amazonas has limited infrastructure and transportation links. Access to many areas within the department is primarily by boat along the Amazon River and its tributaries. The lack of extensive roads and urban development contributes to the preservation of the pristine natural environment.
The capital city of Amazonas is Leticia, a small and vibrant town situated along the Amazon River. Leticia serves as the gateway to the department and is the main point of entry for travelers arriving by air or river.
Leticia
Leticia is a vibrant and culturally diverse city located in the southernmost part of Colombia, in the Amazonas Department. Situated on the banks of the Amazon River, Leticia is Colombia’s gateway to the Amazon rainforest and serves as the country’s only port on the Amazon River.
Leticia is surrounded by the vast and biodiverse Amazon rainforest, one of the most ecologically significant regions on Earth. The city’s location provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the Amazon’s stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Leticia is at the tri-border area, where Colombia shares borders with Brazil and Peru. This strategic location allows visitors to experience a blend of Colombian, Brazilian, and Peruvian cultures and traditions.
The region around Leticia is home to various indigenous communities, including the Huitoto, Bora, and Tikuna people. Travelers can learn about their ancient cultures, traditions, and sustainable practices through guided tours and cultural exchanges.
Puerto Narino
Puerto Nariño is a unique and enchanting village located in the Amazon rainforest of Colombia. Situated along the banks of the Amazon River and surrounded by lush jungle, Puerto Nariño is known for its commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, making it an exemplary model of eco-tourism.
Puerto Nariño is nestled within the vast and biodiverse Amazon rainforest, one of the most ecologically significant regions on Earth. The village’s remote location offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and natural wonders of the jungle.
The community of Puerto Nariño is dedicated to eco-tourism and sustainable practices. The village restricts the use of motorized vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and pollution, promoting walking and biking as the primary modes of transportation.
The area surrounding Puerto Nariño is home to indigenous communities, including the Ticuna people. Visitors have the chance to learn about their ancestral culture and traditions through guided tours and cultural exchanges.
Puerto Nariño’s residents actively participate in community initiatives that aim to protect the environment and support sustainable tourism. The community’s efforts have garnered recognition and praise on both a national and international level.
The region around Puerto Nariño includes several indigenous reserves and protected areas, contributing to the conservation of the Amazon’s unique ecosystem.
Puerto Nariño offers a tranquil and remote setting, providing a chance to disconnect from modern life and experience the tranquility of the rainforest.
Colombia Coffee Triangle
The Colombia Coffee Triangle, also known as the Coffee Region or Zona Cafetera, is a picturesque and culturally rich area located in the central part of Colombia. It is composed of three departments: Caldas, Quindío, and Risaralda, and encompasses numerous charming towns and lush landscapes.
The Coffee Triangle is renowned for its world-class coffee production and is one of the top coffee-growing regions globally. Coffee cultivation is deeply ingrained in the region’s culture and history, and the area’s fertile volcanic soils and ideal climate create the perfect conditions for growing high-quality coffee beans.
The Coffee Triangle boasts breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills, emerald green valleys, and picturesque mountain ranges. The area is adorned with vibrant coffee plantations, colorful flower farms, and cloud forests, providing stunning views at every turn.
The region is dotted with charming colonial towns and villages, each with its unique character and architectural charm. Towns like Salento, Filandia, and Manizales feature well-preserved colonial-style buildings, cobblestone streets, and colorful facades, adding to the region’s allure.
Caldas
Caldas is a department located in the central-western region of Colombia, named after Francisco José de Caldas, a prominent Colombian scientist and philosopher. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance, Caldas offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Manizales, the capital city of Caldas, is known for its location amidst the Andes Mountains and its stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The city has a vibrant urban center, featuring a mix of colonial and modern architecture.
Caldas is part of Colombia’s renowned Coffee Triangle, and the department is home to several coffee plantations. Visitors can explore the coffee farms, learn about the coffee-making process, and taste high-quality Colombian coffee.
A portion of Los Nevados National Natural Park lies within Caldas. This protected area is characterized by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and diverse ecosystems, attracting nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Caldas boasts several natural thermal hot springs, providing opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties.
Throughout the year, Caldas hosts various cultural festivals, celebrating traditions, music, and dance. The “Feria de Manizales” is one of the most famous events, featuring bullfighting, concerts, and parades.
The department is home to picturesque towns, such as Salamina and Filadelfia, showcasing colonial architecture and traditional charm.
Aguadas is a colorful town in Caldas, recognized for its well-preserved colonial buildings and artisan crafts.
Nevado del Ruiz
Nevado del Ruiz is a majestic stratovolcano located in the Andes Mountains of Colombia. Standing at an elevation of approximately 5,321 meters (17,457 feet), it is one of the highest and most active volcanoes in the country. The volcano is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park and is surrounded by stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Nevado del Ruiz has a history of significant volcanic activity, with eruptions dating back to prehistoric times. The most devastating eruption occurred in 1985 when an eruption triggered a massive mudflow (lahar) that resulted in the tragic Armero tragedy, claiming thousands of lives.
The volcano’s summit is capped with glaciers and snow, creating a stunning and dramatic landscape. However, due to climate change and volcanic activity, the glaciers have been receding in recent years.
The slopes of Nevado del Ruiz are characterized by diverse ecosystems, including paramo, Andean forest, and high-altitude grasslands. These ecosystems are home to a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to the Andes.
The volcano attracts hikers and mountaineers seeking challenging adventures. Ascending Nevado del Ruiz requires proper preparation, and climbers often start from the nearby town of Manizales.
Given its active nature, Nevado del Ruiz is closely monitored by scientific institutions to better understand volcanic processes and mitigate potential risks to nearby communities.
Nevado del Ruiz is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park, a protected area renowned for its diverse landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and unique flora and fauna.
The volcano has cultural importance for indigenous communities living in the surrounding region. It is considered a sacred site by some local indigenous groups.
In light of its volcanic activity and the potential hazards it poses, safety measures and contingency plans are in place to protect nearby populations from potential eruptions.
La Guajira
La Guajira is a unique and captivating region located in the northernmost part of Colombia. It is a peninsula bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north and Venezuela to the east. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich indigenous culture, and distinct desert environment, La Guajira offers a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers.
La Guajira is famous for its otherworldly desert landscapes, particularly in the northernmost region known as “La Alta Guajira.” Here, you’ll find vast sand dunes, unique rock formations, and arid plains that create a mesmerizing scenery.
Punta Gallinas is the northernmost point of South America and a must-visit destination in La Guajira. This remote and isolated area boasts striking sand dunes, turquoise waters, and a stunning view of the meeting point between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Venezuela.
The Wayuu indigenous people are the primary inhabitants of La Guajira, maintaining their distinct cultural traditions, language, and clothing. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about their rich heritage, handicrafts, and unique social structure.
La Guajira is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The region is home to various bird species, including flamingos and pelicans, as well as diverse wildlife, such as iguanas and sea turtles.
A visit to the traditional Wayuu rancherías (settlements) offers a glimpse into the daily life and customs of the indigenous communities. Travelers can witness their unique housing structures called “chinchurros” and experience their warm hospitality.
Much of La Guajira remains off the beaten path, offering a sense of adventure and exploration. The region’s remoteness and untamed landscapes create a feeling of being in a world of its own.
Riohacha
Riohacha is a coastal city located in the La Guajira Department of Colombia. Situated along the Caribbean Sea, Riohacha is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and historical significance.
Riohacha boasts stunning beaches along the Caribbean coastline. Visitors can enjoy the warm waters, soft sands, and picturesque sunsets, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and sun-seekers.
The city’s Malecón, or waterfront promenade, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It offers a pleasant place to stroll, take in ocean views, and enjoy the coastal breeze. The port area is also bustling with activity, reflecting the city’s maritime and fishing industry.
Like the rest of La Guajira, Riohacha is home to the indigenous Wayuu community. Visitors can experience their vibrant culture, taste traditional cuisine, and purchase intricately woven Wayuu handicrafts.
The city features some historical landmarks, including the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, a colonial-style cathedral with an iconic blue and white façade. The Almirante Padilla Square is also a central gathering place and offers a glimpse of the city’s past.
Cabo de la Vela
Cabo de la Vela is a remote and enchanting destination located on the northern coast of Colombia, in the La Guajira Department. This picturesque desert peninsula is known for its stunning landscapes, indigenous Wayuu culture, and tranquil beaches.
Cabo de la Vela is characterized by its unique desert landscapes, featuring rolling sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches along the Caribbean Sea. The arid scenery creates a mesmerizing and otherworldly setting.
The strong and consistent winds in Cabo de la Vela make it a popular destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. The beach’s favorable wind conditions attract both beginners and experienced kitesurfers from around the world.
One of the iconic landmarks of Cabo de la Vela is Pilon de Azúcar, a sugarloaf-shaped hill that offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert and coastline. The hill is a popular spot to watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
Cabo de la Vela is located in the heart of the Wayuu indigenous territory. Travelers can experience the Wayuu culture, visit their rancherías (settlements), and learn about their traditions, handicrafts, and way of life.
Visitors can experience the simplicity of beach camping in Cabo de la Vela by sleeping in traditional hammocks provided by the locals. Hammock camping allows travelers to connect with nature and enjoy the serene surroundings.
The region is rich in ancient rock art, with pictographs and petroglyphs found in various locations. These archaeological sites provide insights into the history and spirituality of the indigenous communities.
Cabo de la Vela’s remote location and lack of light pollution make it an ideal destination for stargazing. On clear nights, visitors can witness the brilliance of the night sky and its countless stars.
Punta Gallinas
Punta Gallinas is a remote and captivating destination located in the La Guajira Department of Colombia. Situated in the northernmost point of South America, Punta Gallinas offers a unique and untouched landscape, characterized by its vast desert plains, pristine beaches, and stunning coastal cliffs.
Punta Gallinas is known for its geographic extremes. It is the northernmost point of Colombia and South America, making it a destination with a sense of adventure and discovery.
The region is part of the Guajira Desert, a captivating arid landscape characterized by sand dunes, cacti, and rocky formations. The desert’s rugged beauty offers a stark contrast to the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Punta Gallinas is the traditional territory of the indigenous Wayuu people. Visitors have the opportunity to experience their unique culture, traditions, and artisan crafts.
The area’s scenic beauty is unmatched, with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea meeting the vastness of the desert. The sunsets and starry skies are particularly enchanting.
Punta Gallinas is relatively isolated and less visited compared to other tourist destinations in Colombia. Getting to Punta Gallinas requires a 4×4 vehicle or guided tour due to the rugged terrain.
The region is dotted with secluded and untouched beaches, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation and beachcombing. The coastal cliffs provide stunning vantage points to admire the sea and desert meeting.
The El Faro Lighthouse, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offers panoramic views of the surroundings and serves as a landmark in Punta Gallinas.
The area’s lagoons and wetlands are home to various bird species, including flamingos. Birdwatchers have the chance to spot these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Santa Marta
Santa Marta is the capital of the department of Magdalena and is located on the Caribbean coast at just 5 meters (16 feet) above sea level. Therefore, temperatures here range between 21°C and 33 °C (70 – 91°F). The city spreads over a large area and is flanked by mountains from different sides. The immediate Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is mostly inhabited by indigenous communities and not only reaches the highest point in Colombia with the Pico Cristóbal Colón – at a height of 5,700 meters (18,700 feet)- but is also the highest coastal mountain in the world. Santa Marta is the perfect starting point for many leisure and holiday activities. Along the coast to the east, you will find Tayrona National Park, the most famous national park in Colombia. There are also wonderful beaches. Another highlight is the Lost City hidden in the Sierra, which can be visited in a 4-day trek.
Tayrona National Natural Park
Tayrona National Natural Park, often referred to as just “Tayrona Park,” is a protected area located along the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Situated in the northern part of the country, the park is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, biodiverse ecosystems, and cultural significance as the ancestral land of the indigenous Tayrona people.
Tayrona Park is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty. It encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear rivers. The park’s rich biodiversity is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
The park is famous for its stunning beaches with white sand and turquoise waters. Some of the most popular beaches include Cabo San Juan, La Piscina, Arrecifes, and Playa Cristal. Visitors can relax on the shores, swim in the Caribbean Sea, or snorkel to explore the vibrant underwater world.
The park holds significant cultural importance as the ancestral land of the indigenous Tayrona people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. Several indigenous communities still reside within the park, maintaining their traditions, language, and connection to the land.
Within the park’s boundaries, there are various archaeological sites that bear witness to the ancient Tayrona civilization. Some of these sites include ancient terraces, ceremonial areas, and burial grounds, offering insights into the history and culture of the indigenous people who once thrived in the area.
Taironaka
Taironaka is an eco-hotel but also an open-air museum with different activities offered. The architecture of this eco-hotel are circular houses with stone base, raised in wood and covered by palm leaves, similar to those found, the same that, according to their size, location and constructive peculiarities, showed that they were a site perhaps intended for religious ceremonies and confirmed that it was a settlement of Tairona Indians.
Rincon del Mar
Rincón del Mar is a charming coastal village located in the northern region of Colombia, on the Caribbean coast. Situated in the Sucre Department, this hidden gem offers a serene and unspoiled paradise for travelers seeking a laid-back beach getaway.
Rincón del Mar is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. Its beaches boast soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The tranquil atmosphere of the village allows visitors to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the standout features of Rincón del Mar is the welcoming and friendly nature of its residents. The village has managed to preserve its authentic Colombian charm, and visitors often have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine are prevalent, offering a taste of the true Caribbean spirit.
The location of Rincón del Mar is ideal for exploring nearby attractions. Visitors can embark on an exciting island-hopping adventure, with the Archipelago of San Bernardo being a popular destination.
For nature enthusiasts, Rincón del Mar provides ample opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities. The surrounding mangrove forests and lagoons create a unique ecosystem, perfect for birdwatching, kayaking, and nature walks.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Bogota
Arrival to Bogota
You will be picked up at the airport in Bogota and driven to your hotel.
The bilingual guide will be waiting for you at the exit of the airport.
Cacao Experience
Today you will dive into the world of cacao. In a 90 minutes workshop, located near El Chorro de Quevedo, you will have a sensory experience of 100% Colombian cacao. Cacao has been cultivated for years and thanks to the producers of different regions of Colombia, cacao has managed to re-emerge as an alternative and diversification of agricultural products. Colombian cacao is recognized worldwide as the best smelling cacao in the world.
Accommodation
Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Bogota.
Day 2: Bogota – Leticia
Travel Day
You will travel from Bogota to Leticia.
Half Day Tour Park Mundo Amazonico
You will be picked up at the airport by your guide and driver who will take you directly to the Mundo Amazónico Ecological Park, a nature reserve and environmental education center near Leticia, where you will find a restaurant with typical local food, which you will also visit:
- The botanical garden: you will see the largest collection of Amazonian plants in the department.
- The Amazon Tea House: You will learn about native plants and fruits used in sustainable development systems and learn about environmental education.
- Cultural scenarios: Have fun with archery and arrow shooting activities.
- Aquarium: Get to know the aquatic world with a great variety of fish and piranhas.
- Jungle trail: You will walk along a nature trail in the company of your guide who will teach you about the uses and traditions of the most representative plants and animals of the region.
Amazon Dinner
At night you will have a table reserved at the restaurant Tierras Amazonicas. Here you can eat local specialities like Piranha, Pirarucu, Mojojoy and much more.
Day 3: Leticia – Puerto Narino
Travel Day
You will travel from Leticia to Puerto Narino.
Half Day Tour Puerto Narino
Your guide will pick you up at the hotel and take a river transport to the community of San Antonio Peru (the island of cocoa). Crossing the immense Amazon River to reach our destination, here we will observe sloths, varieties of birds, medicinal plants, timber, the victoria regia, the lotus flower, and a tour of the community.
Then you will go to the second destination with a river transfer to the second largest wetland in Colombia, the magical Tarapoto Lake, with an extensive biodiversity of flora and fauna, where you will enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience, and develop activities such as observation of pink dolphins, gray dolphins, piranha fishing, visit the fertility tree and communication call (capinuri), culminating the day with a refreshing swim in the lake under a beautiful sunset.
Day 4: Puerto Narino
Full Day Tour Puerto Narino
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at the hotel and you will take a river transport to San Martin.
San Martin is a community of the Ticuna ethnic group, on the Amacayacu River, a tributary of the Amazon and border of the Amacayacu National Park. Founded in 1972 and with a population of more than 500 inhabitants, its economy is based on agriculture and fishing. In recent years, the manufacture of handicrafts and tourism have gained importance.
The indigenous communities of the Tikuna ethnic group live in harmony with nature in a simple and harmonious way, with what is necessary. You will be able to get closer to the community and see a perspective of life different from the cities, where a look and a smile transport us to a world where love and simplicity are still possible.
You will spend a morning in which you will live the following experiences:
- Visit the fields and plantations.
- Walk in the forest to observe wildlife.
- Learn about how they use the materials from the forest to make handicrafts, clothes, bags and much more.
After lunch you will visit the Woachine Reserve. The reserve is a huge farm of a gentleman where there are several ponds with aquatic plants and huge water lilies (Victoria Flower). There are also local fauna such as caimans, turtles, monkeys, birds, medicinal plants and timber plants. We will arrive at a small lake where you can observe the largest freshwater fish called pirarucu, you will finish the tour with the observation of the largest tree in Colombia.
Day 5: Puerto Narino
Day at Leisure
If you need any recommendation, we will be more than happy to help you.
Day 6: Puerto Narino – Bogota – Caldas
Travel Day
You will travel from Puerto Narino to Caldas.
Day 7: Caldas
Half Day Coffee Tour
This coffee farm near Manizales has vast coffee fields and picturesque native trees and water springs. Here, you will be immersed in the landscape and culture of Colombian coffee, appreciating the process from the seed to the harvest by a walking tour through the plantations. You will learn about the origin, history, the different coffee varieties and qualities, as well as you will identify the aromas and features of coffee. You will have the chance to taste and see the beans with different grades of roasting to experience the different aromas, as the roasting brings out the aroma and flavor that are locked inside the coffee beans.
Day 8: Caldas
Full Day Hiking Nevado Ruiz
You will be picked up by a driver to Los Nevados National Park, approximately two hours from the hotel, upon arrival you will be accompanied during the tour by a local guide, who will take you to 4 stops where he will explain the ecosystems that you will encounter. To help you adapt to the altitude and climate you will be given a hot cup of coca tea to help you avoid altitude sickness, finally after visiting the mystical area around Los Nevados National Park and enjoying a delicious lunch, you will arrive at Tierra Viva hot springs to take a bath in hot water, where you can also find 10 species of hummingbirds that visit the feeders installed in the main garden.
Day 9: Caldas
Transfer to Nido del Condor
You will be picked up at your hotel and drive to the hotel Nido del Condor.
Day 10: Caldas – Riohacha
Travel Day
Today you will travel from Caldas to Riohacha.
Half Day City Tour Riohacha
After lunch your guide will pick you up in your hotel and you will visit the most important sites in Riohacha.
Day 11: Riohacha – Cabo de la Vela
Travel Day
Today you will travel from Riohacha to Cabo de la Vela.
Half Day Tour Cabo de la Vela
After arrival you will visit the rainbow point. You will experience strong winds, which cause also great swells on the shore. The tides colliding with the coastline, and the water reflecting the sun causes this optical and meteorological phenomenon. The next site is the Pilon de Azucar hill, where you can climb the hill and enjoy the panorama. Be carefull, the loose rocks are sometimes tricky to climb. The beach right next to it is also great to get washed by the strong tides. Afterwards the tour will take you back to your hotel in Cabo de la Vela.
Day 12: Cabo de la Vela – Punta Gallinas
Travel Day to Punta Gallinas
After breakfast the driver and the guide will take you to the high guajira area, where you can enjoy the unique landscapes of Portete Bay and Bahia Honda. On the way you will visit Rancheria Pusheo where you will enjoy a typical lunch, prepared by Wayuu women (local indigenous tribe). After the stop you will drive to the beautiful dunes and beaches of Taroa, the probably most impressive beach of all Colombia. At the end of the day you can enjoy a spectacular sunset at the lighthouse of Punta Gallinas and head to your posada (accommodation).
Day 13: Punta Gallinas – Mayapo
Travel Day to Mayapo
After breakfast you will be taken to La Boquita beach by boat, which is located between Punta Soldado and Punta Aguja. After this 20 minutes boat ride, the tour will continue by land in your 4×4. On your request you always can stop to take spectacular pictures. Then return to the hotel in Punta Gallinas for breakfast and head directly to the hotel in Mayapo, on the way you will make a stop to enjoy the desert and the beautiful overview.
Day 14: Mayapo – Santa Marta
Travel Day to Santa Marta
After breakfast you will drive to Santa Marta.
Accommodation
Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Colombia.
Half Day Santa Marta City tour
In the Santa Marta City Tour you will enjoy an exciting tour of approximately 3 hours through the most beautiful bay of America, in which you will visit the following places: La Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the Historic Center of Santa Marta, declared a National Monument in 1963; the Monument that honors the native soccer star of the Pearl of America, Carlos “El Pibe” Valderrama, and Taganga, a typical fishing village. In the Gold Museum you can appreciate the exhibition of the Anthropological and Ethnological Museum of the Tayrona Culture, their beliefs, mythologies, crafts and goldsmith pieces are exposed in this place, to know and explore the legacy of the milenary culture of the Tayrona.
Day 15: Santa Marta – Tayrona Park – Santa Marta
Full Day Tayrona Park
You will be picked up at the hotel and drive to Taganga, where you will start an incredible adventure to the Tayrona Park, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, just 30 minutes from Santa Marta. Upon arrival you will take a boat to one of the busiest places in the park, Cabo San Juan. Here you will have free time to enjoy the park’s best option for swimming, hiking and, of course, relaxing in a hammock. In the afternoon you will walk to the entrance of the park, approximately 3 hours. There you will be picked up by a driver to get to your hotel.
Day 16: Santa Marta – Taironaka – Santa Marta
Full Day Tour Taironaka and Don Diego River
Your guide will pick you up to take your full day tour. In the natural reserve of Taironaka, located at km 58 of the road leading to Riohacha, it is possible to see the cultural and historical importance of the Tayrona culture. There are restored terraces where the indigenous people used to build their homes and an archeological museum with original artifacts. The area is of great importance for the Koguis, direct descendants of the Tayrona. One of the most fun activities in Taironaka is tubing down the Don Diego River.
Day 17: Santa Marta – Rincon del Mar
Travel Day
Today you will travel from Los Naranjos to Rincon del Mar on the Caribbean coast.
Day 18: Rincon del Mar
Free Day
You can enjoy the nice beaches or opt for some other activities, depending on your taste.
Day 19: Rincon del Mar
Free Day
You can enjoy the nice beaches or opt for some other activities, depending on your taste.
Day 20: Rincon del Mar – Departure
Departure
Today is the last day of your trip. Depending on the hour of your flight, a car will pick you up at your hotel and bring you to the airport.
Travel Map
Very Important Info to Know Visiting Colombia
Tips & Tricks for travelers visiting Colombia
Medical advice and recommendations for travelers visiting Colombia
Climate and weather overview for Colombia
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Colombia Travel Itinerary 25 Days
Colombia Travel Itinerary 26 Days
Colombia Travel Itinerary 27 Days
Colombia Travel Itinerary 28 Days
Colombia Travel Itinerary 29 Days
Colombia Travel Itinerary 30 Days
Travel Itineraries for Bogota Colombia
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 1 Day
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 2 Days
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 4 Days
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 5 Days
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 6 Days
Bogota Colombia Travel Itinerary 7 Days
Travel Itineraries for Medellin Colombia
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 1 Day
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 2 Days
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 4 Days
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 5 Days
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 6 Days
Medellin Colombia Travel Itinerary 7 Days
Travel Itineraries for Cartagena Colombia
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 1 Day
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 2 Days
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 4 Days
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 5 Days
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 6 Days
Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 7 Days
Travel Itineraries for Coffee Triangle Colombia
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 1 Day
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 2 Days
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 4 Days
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 5 Days
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 6 Days
Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Itinerary 7 Days
Travel Itineraries for Santa Marta Colombia
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 1 Day
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 2 Days
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 4 Days
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 5 Days
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 6 Days
Santa Marta Colombia Travel Itinerary 7 Days
Travel Itineraries for Cali Colombia
Cali Colombia Travel Itinerary 1 Day
Cali Colombia Travel Itinerary 2 Days
Cali Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days
Cali Colombia Travel Itinerary 4 Days
Cali Colombia Travel Itinerary 5 Days
