Colombian Explorer: Medellín Nights & Tayrona National Park
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Colombian Explorer: Medellín Nights & Tayrona National Park" tour, a captivating journey through Colombia's vibrant landscapes and rich culture. Begin in the historic city of Cartagena, where you'll wander its charming streets and soak in the coastal atmosphere. Venture to Minca for a refreshing hike to the Marinka Waterfalls, then relax on the beaches of Palomino with a bonfire under the stars. Discover the biodiversity of Tayrona National Park with a guided hike, and explore the lively city of Santa Marta. Conclude your adventure in Medellín, visiting the transformed Comuna 13 and engaging with local community initiatives. With a mix of cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and opportunities for adventure, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Colombia. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, local insights from your guide, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Colonial
Arrive at any time. After a welcome meeting at the hotel in the evening, choose to join your fellow travellers for an optional group dinner and check out the local flavours and bustling atmosphere of Plaza Trinidad.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Day 2: Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Colonial
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a CEO-led orientation walk through streets of the historic old town. Depart from your hotel and pass by the Plaza de San Diego, Murallas de Cartagena for views of the Caribbean Sea, Heredia Theatre, and Monumento Torre del Reloj, during the route. Then, the day is yours to explore this coastal colonial city. Check out the San Felipe fortress, keep walking the lively streets, or take a break from the heat and people watch in one of the city’s many plazas, like Plaza de Santo Domingo.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy an orientation walk alongside your trust CEO and get to know the Old Town of Cartagena as you walk a 3.7km loop from your hotel in the area. Pass by various monuments and museums and gain an introduction to the streets, sounds, and sights of this Colombian city.
FREE TIME: Choose your own adventure today! From numerous museums to city tours and nearby island visits, there's no doubt you'll find plenty of options to keep you entertained.
Day 3: Cartagena/Minca
Location: Cartagena, Minca
Accommodation Name: On the rock hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave the liveliness and pulsing energy of Cartagena behind and travel to the small town of Minca, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and take advantage of free time to explore. This growing village has a laid back, but energetic vibe with lots of opportunities for jungle hiking, waterfalls, and other adventurous activities.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle from Cartagena to Minca.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Settle in to this town in the middle of the rainforest in the lower part of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. A place brimming with hiking trails, coffee and cocoa plantations, rivers, and waterfalls. The ideal place to immerse yourself in nature. Go for a hike or explore the town on your own.
Day 4: Minca
Location: Minca
Accommodation Name: On the rock hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning after breakfast at the hotel, set off on one of the best, but lesser-known activities while in Minca; a hike to the Marinka Waterfalls. These two large jungle cascades can be found about 3.6km from town amidst the beautiful forest, and they offer a deep swimming pool to cool off in after your hike. The group will arrive back to Minca for a free afternoon to lounge about, or be as adventurous as you choose.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON After the hike travel back to Minca and spend the afternoon on your own. Maybe head to Pozo Azul, a collection of three swimming areas on the river that runs by town, or choose to tour a chocolate and coffee farm.
ACTIVITY: Hike to the impressive Marinka waterfalls that flow with crystal clear water and generate a natural pool perfect for swimming. This easy to moderate hike offers a great chance to feel refreshed in nature amid the beautiful jungle scenery.
Day 5: Minca/Palomino
Location: Minca, Palomino
Accommodation Name: La Riviera Playa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready to lean into those beach vibes and a laid-back coastal paradise energy as the group travels from Minca to Palomino, on the Caribbean coast. Due to it’s location at the southern portion of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, you get the lush mountain greenery right up against the warm sea. Upon arrival there will be free time for lunch on your own as well as the opportunity to book an optional tubing activity on the nearby river. Later, kick back with your travel buddies around a beach bonfire before a free night out in Palomino on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy yourself during a free afternoon in the small beachside town of Palomino. This off-the-beaten-track is the perfect place to sunbathe on golden sand beaches or tube down a lazy rive beneath the jungle trees.
ACTIVITY: Hang out on the beach with your travel pals and enjoy a bonfire as the sun goes down and you enjoy one another's company.
Day 6: Tayrona National Park
Location: Tayrona National Park, Palomino
Accommodation Name: La Riviera Playa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike thorough the stunning landscape accompanied by a local guide. Experience the natural biodiversity and beautiful trails while any nature lovers unite on a search for wildlife amid the dense jungle forest. Spend half of the day here in the park before an included lunch and transfer back to Palomino. Arrive in the early evening and spend it as you choose. Opt to find a local spot for dinner and toast with your travel pals to a day well spent, maybe catch the sunset.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy the first part of the day in the beautiful landscape of Tayrona National Park on a moderate hike led by a local guide. Learn more about the rich diversity of Tayrona's natural heritage and simply enjoy the outdoors.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: EVENING Spend the evening on your own. Opt to grab dinner together with the group or find a spot in town to watch the sunset.
Day 7: Palomino/Santa Marta
Location: Santa Marta
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tayromar
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning the group will travel by private vehicle to Santa Marta from Palomino. Upon arrival, join your CEO for an orientation walk of the town passing by landmarks such as, Parque de los Novios, Parque Bolívar, Parque Camellón Rodrigo de Bastidas (along the water), and the marina. Then, take advantage of free time in the afternoon to explore. Choose to grab some lunch at a local restaurant, or maybe head to El Rodadero for white sand beaches and warm water. Tonight, head out for a final night out on the town with your travel crew.
ACTIVITY: Walk through town with your CEO and pass by landmarks like Parque de los Novios, Parque Bolívar, Parque Camellón Rodrigo de Bastidas (along the water), and the marina. Get to know this gorgeous place on the Caribbean Sea and simply enjoy the coastal location.
FREE TIME: Explore on your own and choose from the optional activities available locally.
ACTIVITY: Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials, or hanging out by the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 8: Santa Marta/Medellín
Location: Santa Marta, Medellín
Accommodation Name: Hotel Punto 70
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wheels up! In the mid-morning, fly inland to Medellín, a city that has transformed into one of Latin America’s safest destinations. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to become acquainted with your surroundings on your own before an optional night out with the group.
FREE TIME: Enjoy time to get settled in Medellín and explore on your own.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and relax as you fly from Santa Marta to Medllín.
Day 9: Medellín
Location: Medellín
Accommodation Name: Hotel Punto 70
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Medellín today and visit the Comuna 13 neighbourhood—a community transformed. Embark on a walking tour and learn more about the organization Berracas de la 13, a G Adventures–supported project. Afterwards, enjoy time to grab lunch on your own and choose to visit museums, take a historical tour, or try one of the other optional activities available in the area.
ACTIVITY: Explore dynamic communities and support women–owned social enterprises on a tour led by residents of the Comuna 13 of Medellin. A G Adventures,–supported project, Berracas de la 13 is a nonprofit organization who have developed a new Comuna tour and meal service, benefitting women and youth from the community. Travellers have the opportunity to learn from local guides, visit small shops, try local food and purchase unique handicrafts.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend free time exploring the city and make sure to try as many fun optional activities as you can. If you haven't ridden the metrocable yet then we suggesting catching a ride up for sunset views.
Day 10: Medellín
Location: Medellín
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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Accommodation
Hotels (9 nts). -
G for Good Moment
Tour Comuna 13 with a local guide in Medellín.
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Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group upon arrival.
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First Night Out Moment
Connect with new friends on your first night out.
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Big Night Out Moment
Enjoy a night out in Santa Marta.
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CEO-led Orientation Walks
Orientation walks in old town Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Guatapé.
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Marinka Waterfalls Walk
Walk to the Marinka Waterfalls outside of Minca.
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Tayrona National Park Visit
Visit and moderate hike in Tayrona National Park.
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Palomino Beach Bonfire
Enjoy a beach bonfire in Palomino.
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Comuna 13 Visit and Tour
Visit and tour Comuna 13 in Medellín.
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Free Time for Optional Activities
Free time for optional activities in Cartagena, Minca, Palomino, Santa Marta, and Medellín.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Included
Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities during free time are not included.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 9 nights, offering a mix of shared and private accommodations. Experience the local charm with multi-share rooms and shared bathroom facilities, providing a cozy and authentic atmosphere throughout your journey.
Transport
Private vehicle, public bus, plane, walking
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch
Group Size
Max 16.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo 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 solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
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. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with a mix of private vehicles, public buses, and planes, complemented by walking tours. This diverse transportation ensures seamless transitions between destinations, allowing you to fully immerse in the vibrant landscapes and cultures of Colombia.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Important Notes
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. Some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour after your trip concludes.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. 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. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
A variety of styles of hotels/hostels are used on this trip. In many instances, they might not be like what you are used to back home as service and efficiency can vary.
Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.
Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Ecuador (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
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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. It’s best to layer clothes rather than bring a heavy parka so that you can take layers off.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
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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. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the Colombian Explorer tour?
The tour uses a combination of private vehicles, public buses, planes, and walking for transportation between destinations and activities.
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What type of accommodation is provided on the Colombian Explorer tour?
The tour includes accommodation in hotels for 9 nights.
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Are meals included in the Colombian Explorer tour?
Yes, the tour includes 8 breakfasts and 1 lunch.
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What activities are included in the Colombian Explorer tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a tour of Comuna 13 in Medellín, a beach bonfire in Palomino, a hike to Marinka Waterfalls, a visit to Tayrona National Park, and CEO-led orientation walks in Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Guatapé.
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Is there free time for optional activities during the tour?
Yes, there is free time allocated for optional activities in Cartagena, Minca, Palomino, Santa Marta, and Medellín.
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What is the maximum group size for the Colombian Explorer tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is 16 people.
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What is the minimum age requirement for the Colombian Explorer tour?
The minimum age requirement for this tour is 18 years.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on the tour?
The CEO accompanies the group to take the hassle out of travel, provide information on destinations, suggest activities, recommend local eateries, and introduce travelers to local friends. They are not traditional guides but have broad knowledge of the countries visited.
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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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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Colombian Explorer: Medellín Nights & Tayrona National Park
10 Days Starting in Cartagena, Colombia and ending in Medellín, Colombia
Visiting: Cartagena, Minca, Palomino, Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta, Medellín
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26161
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
