Name: Colombia Tour - Lost City Adventure | Coffee, Coasts
Brand: Zero Trace Tours
SKU: 44776245493936
Price: 3999.0 AUD
Availability: InStock

Bogotá → Cartagena → Santa Marta

Moderate | Ages 12+

Hotels/Camping

200% CO₂ Offset

Colombia Uncovered | Coffee, Coasts & The Lost City — 14 or 22 Days

Trace Colombia from Caribbean sands to Sierra Nevada jungle trails and into highland cities where coffee is a craft and street art sings. Choose 14 days for a coast-to-jungle arc capped by the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) trek, or step up to 22 days to add Bogotá, Medellín, and Cocora Valley’s towering wax palms.

Expect colourful old towns, Tayrona’s jungle-to-beach paths, and a multi-day trek guided by Indigenous teams to an ancient city hidden in the hills. Your CEO handles the logistics; you choose the tempo—plaza wanders, river swims, valley hikes, and the kind of meals you’ll talk about on the flight home.

Quick Facts

Duration: 14 or 22 days (two itineraries)
Style: Small-group Classic | Standard service level
Difficulty: Demanding (4/5) — heat, humidity, long jungle days on the Lost City trek
Start/Finish:
- 14-day: Cartagena → Santa Marta
- 22-day: Bogotá → Santa Marta
Transport: Private vehicles, 4×4 access to trailheads, walking; internal flight on 22-day
Stays: Hotels/guesthouses; rustic camps (hammocks or bunks) on the Lost City trek
Age: 12+ | Group size: Small group (max ~16)

Trip Highlights

Cartagena city walk through walled-city lanes and plazas
Tayrona National Park guided hike (jungle to coves)
Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) trek with Indigenous guides (multi-day, river crossings, stone steps)
G for Good: Visit to the Katanzama community (learn living culture and stewardship)
Taganga seaside orientation and coastal downtime
Cocora Valley wax-palm hike & Salento coffee-country vibes (22-day only)
Medellín city tour & transformation stories (22-day only)
Hacienda stay in the coffee region (22-day only)

Good to Know

Trek conditions: Expect hot, humid days, steep ascents/descents, river crossings, and very basic camps (shared hammocks or bunks; mosquito nets provided). Main luggage stays in town; carry a small duffel/daypack on trek.
Meals: Most breakfasts included; trek meals covered on trail. Exact counts vary by option (more inclusions on the 22-day).
Seasonal note: Tayrona NP has scheduled closures; when closed, the route swaps to Minca + Tayronaka + Don Diego River experiences with no loss of value.
Health & safety: Hydration, electrolytes, and broken-in footwear are essential. Insects love jungles; bring repellent and long, light layers.
Baggage: Soft luggage packs best in vehicles; keep your daypack lean for steamy trail sections.

Booking Terms & Conditions

$350.00

RESERVE WITH DEPOSIT

INQUIRE ABOUT TOUR

Day 1 | Bogotá Welcome

Arrive at any time and ease into Colombia’s high-altitude capital. In the evening, meet your CEO and travel crew at the Welcome Moment, swap first hellos, then (optionally) wander out for a casual local dinner—think ajiaco, arepas, and your first Colombian coffee done right.

Stay: Hotel (Bogotá; e.g., Hotel Regina or similar).

Included meals: None.

Included moment: Welcome Moment – meet your CEO and group.

Day 2 | Bogotá → Armenia: Hacienda Nights

Breakfast, then a short flight lands you in the Coffee Axis. Roll through green folds to a traditional hacienda set amid plantations—wide verandas, birdsong, and mountain air. Unpack, breathe, and sink into the slower rhythm of coffee country.

Stay: Hacienda/Hotel (near Armenia; e.g., Hostal Mi Monaco or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Flight Bogotá → Armenia.

Day 3 | Armenia: Market Wander & Coffee Farm Tour

Start local at Armenia Market—colour-splashed fruit pyramids, flower stalls, and snack counters buzzing with morning trade. Later, tour a coffee farm in Calarcá from shrub to roast: walk the rows, see processing up close, and taste the good stuff at origin. Lazy hacienda evening to close.

Stay: Hacienda/Hotel (near Armenia).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Included activities: Armenia market visit; Coffee farm tour.

Day 4 | Cocora Valley Hike → Salento

Trace a 2–3 hr trail through Cocora Valley, where wax palms spear the sky and cloudforest mists cling to ridgelines. Continue to Salento—balconied streets, artisan cafés, and a soft Andean pace. Explore on foot, camera handy.

Stay: Hotel (Salento; e.g., El Rancho de Salento or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Private vehicle Armenia → Salento (~30 min).

Day 5 | Salento → Medellín: Across the Andes

Settle in for a scenic 8–9 hr public bus ride as valleys give way to the broad Aburrá basin. Arrive in Medellín by evening—plazas alive, skyline ringed by hills, and endless places for a relaxed bite.

Stay: Hotel (Medellín; e.g., Hotel Seven Inn Medellín or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Public bus Salento → Medellín.

Day 6 | Medellín City Tour & Free Time

Unpack Medellín’s story on a guided neighbourhood tour—public art, green parks, and the civic projects that reshaped the city. Afternoon is yours: museums and murals, viewpoints and café crawls, or ride the Metrocable for wide-angle sunset views.

Stay: Hotel (Medellín).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: Medellín city tour.

Optional extras (own expense): Metrocable; sightseeing bus; day trip to El Peñol/Guatapé.

Day 7 | Medellín Free Day

Dial the pace to suit: head for Guatapé (colour-blocked zócalos and the famous rock), join a food tour, or slow it down with plazas, bakeries, and good coffee.

Stay: Hotel (Medellín).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional extras (own expense): Guatapé day trip; museums; food tour.

Day 8 | Medellín → Cartagena: Walled-City Afternoons

Morning flight to Cartagena. A CEO orientation walk (30–60 min) maps out ATMs, plazas, and local tips. Then roam ramparts and shaded squares; by dusk, the walled city hums with buskers, music, and sea breezes.

For 14-Day Tour Guests. Arrive at any time and meet your C.E.O for introduction

Stay: Hotel (Cartagena; e.g., Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Flight Medellín → Cartagena.

Day 9 | Cartagena Free Day

Your Discover Moment: boat to the Rosario Islands, climb Castillo de San Felipe, browse the Gold Museum, or simply wander the old town with stop-offs for jugo natural and patacones.

Stay: Hotel (Cartagena).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional extras (own expense): Rosario islands day trip; fortress entry; museums.

Day 10 | Cartagena City Tour

See Cartagena’s highlights on a 4–5 hr guided tour by private transport: Clock Tower, Plaza Bolívar, Castillo de San Felipe, hilltop Convento de la Popa, plus an old-town walk between San Pedro Claver and Santo Domingo. Afternoon free to chase that Caribbean vibe. (Hot water is uncommon on the coast—expect cool showers.)

Stay: Hotel (Cartagena).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: Cartagena city tour.

Day 11 | Cartagena → Minca: Mountain Air

Private vehicle to Minca (~4 hrs). The heat eases as the road curls into the Sierra foothills. Free time for café patios by the river, bird-spotting, or a sunset wander. (If the group is full, multi-share rooms may be used here due to property size.)

Stay: Hotel (Minca; e.g., Hotel Minca La Casona or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Private vehicle Cartagena → Minca.

Day 12 | Katanzama Community Visit → Tayrona Area

Meet the Katanzama (Arhuaco) community near Tayrona: a welcome at the ceremonial centre, stories of land stewardship and resilience, and a textile-weaving demonstration—lunch included. A short hop brings you to a lodge just outside the park; hammocks, garden paths, and ocean air fill the afternoon.

Stay: Hotel (Tayrona area; e.g., Posada Villa Margarita or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Included activity: Katanzama community visit.

Day 13 | Tayrona National Park: Jungle-to-Beach

A 3–4 hr moderate guided hike through Tayrona—macaws overhead, forest shade, and coves where jungle meets sand—lunch included. Return to the lodge to unwind. (If Tayrona is closed on your dates, you’ll visit Taironaka Park for Kogi culture, river time, and museum insight.)

Stay: Hotel (Tayrona area).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Included activity: Tayrona NP excursion & hike.

Day 14 | Tayrona Area → Taganga: Fisher-Village Vibes

Short transfer to Taganga. A CEO orientation walk maps the malecón, beach, and cafés; then it’s your time—fresh seafood, soft sand, and an easy Caribbean sunset.

Stay: Hotel (Taganga; e.g., Ocean Taganga or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Private vehicle Tayrona → Taganga.

Day 15 | Taganga Free Day → Santa Marta

Snorkel in clear shallows, laze with a cold jugo, or daydream from a beachfront café. Late day, transfer to Santa Marta and (optionally) head out with the group after dark.

Stay: Hotel (Santa Marta; e.g., Hotel Tayromar or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Private vehicle Taganga → Santa Marta (15–30 min).

Optional extras (own expense): Snorkelling; beach time.

Day 16 | Santa Marta Free Day

Prep for the trek: dial in snacks and electrolytes, pack light layers, and enjoy a gentle coastal day.

Stay: Hotel (Santa Marta).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Day 17 | Santa Marta → El Mamey → Ricardito Camp (Trek Day 1)

4×4 ride into the hills to El Mamey (Machete Pelao) for lunch, then start the Lost City trek: 4–5 hrs / 7–8 km along the Buritaca River, through farms and humid jungle to Ricardito Camp (Vista Hermosa). If skies are clear, sunsets here are next-level.

Stay: Jungle camp (hammocks or rustic bunks; mosquito nets provided).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Transport: 4×4 Santa Marta → trailhead.

Day 18 | Ricardito → Teyuna Paraiso Camp (Trek Day 2)

Push deeper into the Sierra: ~8 hrs / 14–15 km with steep climbs from the riverbed and long green corridors of shade. Pass circular Kogi huts and small clearings before reaching Teyuna Paraiso Camp—river rinse, dinner, sleep to jungle sounds.

Stay: Jungle camp (hammocks or rustic bunks).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 19 | Lost City Summit → Mumake Camp (Trek Day 3)

Ascend 1,200 ancient stone steps to Ciudad Perdida (Teyuna). Walk sacred terraces as your guide shares the story of the Tayrona—most of the city still sleeps beneath the forest. After lunch and a cooling river stop, descend toward Mumake Camp. ~8–9 hrs / 8–9 km today (mostly downhill after the site).

Stay: Jungle camp (hammocks or rustic bunks).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 20 | Mumake → Las Cascadas (Trek Day 4)

Break camp early and follow the familiar trail back through banana groves, Kogi communities, and open grasslands to Las Cascadas (Ricardito). If the weather plays nice, expect another stellar jungle sunset. ~3–4 hrs / 8–9 km.

Stay: Jungle camp (hammocks or rustic bunks).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 21 | Las Cascadas → El Mamey → Santa Marta (Trek Day 5)

Final stretch 5–6 hrs / 7–8 km back to Machete Pelao, then 4×4 out to Santa Marta. Hot shower, clean clothes, and a slow afternoon to celebrate fresh legs and big views.

Stay: Hotel (Santa Marta; e.g., Hotel Tayromar or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Transport: 4×4 trailhead → Santa Marta.

Day 22 | Santa Marta Departure

Depart at any time—filled with sea air, jungle sounds, and a new respect for ancient stone steps.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Key Tour Info

Where You’ll Be Staying & What You’ll Be Eating

Where You’ll Be Staying

Night 1 — Bogotá: Hotel in a central district (multi-share possible). Walkable to cafés, ATMs, and the evening meet-up.
Nights 2–3 — Coffee Region (Armenia/Calarcá): Traditional hacienda amid coffee fincas; verandas, gardens, mountain air.
Night 4 — Salento: Hotel/guesthouse near the plaza—easy for cafés and craft shops.
Nights 5–7 — Medellín: Hotel in a lively neighbourhood with access to the Metro/Metrocable.
Nights 8–10 — Cartagena: Hotel inside/near the walled city; expect colonial ambience and cool showers (hot water uncommon on the coast).
Night 11 — Minca: Small hotel/guesthouse in the Sierra foothills; birdsong, river breeze. (If the group is full, multi-share rooms may be used due to property size.)
Nights 12–13 — Tayrona Area: Jungle lodge just outside the park; hammocks, gardens, ocean air.
Night 14 — Taganga: Hotel near the malecón; sunset over the bay.
Nights 15–16 — Santa Marta: Hotel close to the seafront and old town.
Nights 17–20 — Lost City Trek: Jungle camps (shared hammocks or rustic bunks, mosquito nets provided; basic facilities, cold-water washes, generator power where available).
Night 21 — Santa Marta: Hotel to regroup post-trek.
Rooms & facilities: Simple Standard service level. Expect Wi-Fi in cities/towns; fans/air-con on the coast; cooler nights inland. Luggage storage in Santa Marta before the trek; carry a small duffel/daypack to camps.

What You’ll Be Eating

Included meals: 21 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 4 Dinners (more inclusions on trek days and specific cultural days; see day-to-day).
Style & examples:Breakfasts: Hotel/guesthouse spreads—fruit, breads, eggs where offered, hot drinks (good coffee countrywide).On-trek meals: Hearty, simple dishes prepared at camp (rice, beans, vegetables, chicken/beef/eggs, fresh fruit) to keep energy high.Coast days: Fresh seafood, patacones, ceviches, arepas de huevo—mostly own choice so you can sample widely.Coffee region: Farm-to-cup tastings; countryside lunches on activity days.
Dietaries: Common needs can usually be accommodated with advance notice, including on the trek (vegetarian/vegan/gluten-light). Bring favourite snacks if your diet is very specific.
Hydration: Safe water refills available regularly in towns and at many accommodations; on the trek your team will manage treated/drinking water—carry two 1L bottles or a 2–3L bladder.
Notes: Alcohol is own expense (BYO where permitted). On the Caribbean coast, cold showers are typical and refreshing after hot days.

✅ What’s Included

Core (both 14 & 22 days)

CEO throughout + local/Indigenous guides where required
G for Good: Katanzama (Arhuaco) community visit with textile weaving demo + lunch
Tayrona National Park guided hike (lunch included) — contingency to Taironaka Park during official closures
Taganga orientation walk
Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) 5-day trek with permits, camps (shared hammocks or rustic bunks, mosquito nets), and trek meals as listed
Private vehicles, 4×4 to/from Lost City trailhead, public transport where specified
Park/site entrances where included in the day-to-day
Luggage storage in Santa Marta during the trek

22-Day Option (Bogotá → Santa Marta) — additional inclusions

Welcome Moment (Bogotá)
Flight Bogotá → Armenia and flight Medellín → Cartagena
Hacienda stay (2 nights) in the Coffee Region
Armenia market visit & Coffee farm tour (Calarcá) with tastings
Cocora Valley hike & time in Salento
Public bus Salento → Medellín
Medellín city/neighbourhood tour (transformation focus)
Cartagena CEO orientation + Cartagena city tour (walled city, Convento de la Popa, Castillo de San Felipe, key plazas)
Meals: 21 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners

14-Day Option (Cartagena → Santa Marta) — what’s included

Cartagena CEO orientation + Cartagena city tour (walled city, Convento de la Popa, Castillo de San Felipe, key plazas)
Taganga orientation, Tayrona NP guided hike (with lunch), Katanzama visit (with lunch), and the full Lost City 5-day trek
Surface transport only (no domestic flights): private vehicles, public buses where used, and 4×4 to/from trailhead
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners

🚫 What’s Not Included

Applies to both options

International flights (to trip start / from trip end)
Airport transfers (arrival/departure) unless specified
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Visas/entry documents and associated fees (as applicable)
Optional activities not listed as included (e.g., Rosario Islands boat day, Guatapé/El Peñol day trip, snorkelling in Taganga, museum entries, food tours, Metrocable rides)
Meals & drinks not specified as included; personal drinks (alcohol is own expense)
Personal trekking gear for the Lost City (see What to Pack)
Laundry, phone/Wi-Fi charges, souvenirs and other personal expenses
Tips/gratuities for CEO, drivers, porters, and local guides (at your discretion)

Option-specific notes

22-Day: Domestic flights are included (Bogotá → Armenia; Medellín → Cartagena) — checked-bag limits apply; excess fees are not included.
14-Day: No domestic flights included; route runs entirely by surface transport plus 4×4 to/from the trek.

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Overview
This route spans high-altitude Bogotá, the Coffee Axis (Armenia/Salento/Cocora), Medellín, and the Caribbean coast (Cartagena → Minca → Tayrona → Taganga/Santa Marta), plus a multi-day jungle trek to the Lost City. Near the equator, temps are steady; rainfall and altitude drive the feel. Pack light, quick-dry layers you can mix and match.

Rainfall rhythm (rule of thumb)

Wetter windows: Apr–Jun and Sep–Nov (Andean slopes and jungle).
Drier windows: Dec–Mar and Jul–Aug (showers still possible).
Caribbean coast gets brief downpours any month; mountains see afternoon showers and cooler nights.

By Region

Bogotá (~2,600 m)Temp: ~10–20 °C; nights 8–12 °C.Rain: Peaks Apr–May & Oct–Nov; light drizzle possible anytime.Feel: High-altitude UV + cool breeze—carry a warm mid-layer and sun protection.
Coffee Axis — Armenia/Salento & Cocora (1,500–2,400 m)Temp: ~14–24 °C; nights 12–16 °C.Rain: Frequent mist/showers; trails can be muddy (Cocora).Feel: Lush, cooler than the coast. Waterproofs and sturdy footwear pay off.
Medellín / Aburrá Valley (1,500–1,800 m)Temp: ~17–26 °C (“eternal spring”); evenings 16–19 °C.Rain: Short, clearing showers—more in Apr–May & Oct–Nov.Feel: Very comfortable; a light rain shell is smart most months.
Caribbean Coast — Cartagena / Taganga / Santa Marta (sea level)Temp: ~25–32 °C; nights 24–27 °C.Rain: Heavier Sep–Nov; Dec–Mar tends drier.Feel: Hot, humid, and sunny; seek shade, hydrate, and expect cool (not hot) showers.
Minca (650–700 m) & Tayrona area (coast + jungle)Temp: ~20–30 °C; fresher mornings in Minca, warm/steamy by midday.Rain: Regular showers; jungle stays damp under canopy.Feel: Jungle humidity; dusk mosquitoes—long, light layers help.
Lost City Trek — Buritaca River valleys (200–1,200 m)Temp: Hot & humid: days 24–31 °C; nights 20–24 °C.Rain: Showers likely in wetter seasons; river levels can rise after heavy rain.Feel: Steep, sweaty, and rewarding—expect mud, river crossings, and slick stone steps.

Sun, Wind & UV

UV is strong everywhere, even on cool Andean days—hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+.
Coastal breezes help heat; mountain valleys can funnel gusty winds near passes.

Daylight

Near-equatorial: ~11.5–12.5 hours of daylight year-round. Early starts = cooler hikes and calmer sites.

Trail & Conditions Notes (Cocora + Lost City)

Surfaces range cobbles/boardwalks → dirt/mud → stone steps. After rain, expect slick sections.
Carry a light waterproof, packable mid-layer, dry bag for phone/camera, and electrolytes.
For the trek, plan on two 1L bottles or a 2–3L bladder, quick-dry socks, and foot care for humid conditions.

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What to Pack

Bags & carry

Soft duffel/backpack (50–70 L) for main luggage.
Small trek bag (20–30 L) for the Lost City (your main bag stays in Santa Marta).
Dry bags / zip sacks (3–10 L) for clothes, electronics, and snacks on wet days.

Documents & money

Passport, required visa/entry docs, travel insurance (digital + printed).
Credit/debit card + small COP cash for markets/tips.
Copies of key docs stored separately.

Footwear

Broken-in hiking shoes/boots with tread (trail runners OK if you’re used to them).
Light sandals/flip-flops for showers/camps.
Hiking socks (merino/synthetic, 4–6 pairs) + blister kit (Compeed/tape).
Optional: Trekking poles (collapsible) for the Lost City steps.

Clothing (quick-dry everything)

3–4 quick-dry tees + 1–2 long-sleeve sun layers.
1–2 hiking shorts, 1 light long pant (convertibles handy).
Light mid-layer (fleece) for Bogotá/coffee region evenings.
Waterproof shell (hooded) + light rain pants (Cocora/Tayrona showers).
Sleepwear for warm, humid nights at camp.
Swimwear (coast, rivers, hot days).
Buff/neck gaiter, cap/sun hat, light beanie (Bogotá can be cool).

Trek-specific (Lost City)

Head torch (+ spare batteries).
2 × 1 L bottles or 2–3 L bladder (treated water provided at camps).
Electrolyte tablets/sachets (1–2 per trekking day).
Light towel (microfibre).
Sleeping bag liner (hammocks/bunks have nets; liner adds comfort/hygiene).
Insect repellent (DEET/picaridin) + after-bite.
Small first-aid kit (pain relief, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration salts).
Personal meds (incl. motion sickness for winding roads/4×4).
Silicone earplugs + eye mask (jungle camps can be lively at night).
Compact clothesline/pegs (things won’t fully dry—aim to manage damp).

Sun & hygiene

Sunscreen SPF 30+, lip balm SPF, after-sun.
Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, toilet paper (small roll in zip bag).
Basic toiletries (biodegradable where possible).
Small laundry soap for sink washes in towns.

Tech & power

Power bank (10–20k mAh); charging cable(s).
Universal adapter (Type A/B, 110–120 V).
Phone in a waterproof pouch; optional compact camera.

Nice-to-haves

Binoculars (birds in Minca/Tayrona).
Gaiters (useful in muddy Cocora/Lost City sections).
Reusable mug/spork for camp comfort.
Notebook/pen for community/coffee notes.

Packing notes

Aim carry-on weight for the trek bag—humid climbs feel heavier.
Expect cool showers on the Caribbean coast; they’re a blessing after hot days.
The 22-day version includes internal flights—bag limits can be tighter; pack light and soft.

Local Insights

Coffee is culture, not just caffeine: In the Coffee Axis, “un tinto” is a small black coffee. Try both a farm pour-over and a cheap-and-cheerful tinto from a corner café to taste the spectrum.
Cocora = cooler, muddier: Trails sit higher and stay damp. Start early, wear waterproof shoes, and expect slick bridges and cow-friendly mud (it’s their valley too).
Medellín’s “eternal spring” isn’t code for dry: Afternoon showers blow through fast—carry a light shell and enjoy the fresh air they leave behind.
Cartagena showers run cool by design: On the Caribbean coast, hot water is uncommon. After a humid day, that cool rinse is the post-sunset reset you didn’t know you needed.
Tayrona closures are intentional: Indigenous communities ask the park to “rest” at set times. If your dates align, the Taironaka/Kogi alternative isn’t a downgrade—lean in, it’s culturally rich and crowd-light.
Katanzama etiquette: Follow the local guide’s cues, ask before photos, and consider buying hand-woven textiles—it directly supports the community that’s hosting you.
Lost City reality check (the good kind): It’s hot, humid, and steep with river crossings and 1,200 stone steps. Pace yourself, sip electrolytes, and use two trekking poles if knees are fussy. A liner in hammocks/bunks = better sleep.
Feet win the trek: Rotate quick-dry socks, air feet at lunch, tape hotspots early. A tiny foot powder works miracles in jungle humidity.
Water wisdom: Camps provide treated water—carry 2–3 L capacity. On trail, sip steadily, don’t chug; cramps love heroes.
Cash & connectivity: ATMs are easy in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta; rarer near the trek. Pull out in cities and bring small notes for snacks/tips. Expect patchy signal around Tayrona and none on much of the trek.
Street food, done smart: Follow busy stands, watch it cooked hot, and go for fresh juices (ask sin hielo if you skip ice). In Cartagena, try arepa de huevo; in Medellín, buñuelos with coffee.
Safety basics that work: Zipped daypack, phone away on crowded streets, registered taxis/rideshares at night, and CEO guidance for neighbourhoods. On trails, give wildlife space—always.
Altitude head start: Bogotá sits at ~2,600 m. Take day one easy, hydrate, and skip all-out workouts until you’ve slept on it.
Packing hack for the trek: Line your daypack with a garbage bag or big dry sack. Jungle rain respects no zippers.
Sun is sneaky: High UV even on cloudy Andean days. Reapply SPF, wear a brimmed hat, and don’t forget lip balm SPF—sunburned lips equal sad arepa bites.
Tipping & change: Small coins/notes help for café tips and porters. Keep a separate small-wallet for day use.
Spanish sprinkles go far: Buenos días, por favor, gracias, muy amable. A little courtesy returns a lot of warmth—Colombia’s superpower.
Leave No Trace, tropical edition: Stay on trail, pack out wrappers, keep toiletries biodegradable, and respect sacred sites at Teyuna—photos are memories; footprints shouldn’t be.

Your Tour Offsets drive far more than Tree Planting — We Go Climate Positive By Design | Click Here to View the Method

CO₂ Footprint

Results Summary (Topline)

14-day itinerary (Cartagena → Santa Marta): ~1.7 tCO₂e per guest | ~27 tCO₂e per tour (assumed 16 guests)
22-day itinerary (Bogotá → Santa Marta): ~2.4 tCO₂e per guest | ~38 tCO₂e per tour (assumed 16 guests)
Counter-impact applied: 200% (targets ~3.4 tCO₂e / 4.8 tCO₂e per guest, respectively)
Method note: DEFRA-aligned factors with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and Radiative Forcing (RF) = 1.9 for aviation; +10% uncertainty uplift applied. Conservative assumptions throughout.

Purpose

Provide clear, conservative emissions estimates so travellers understand the impact of these itineraries and the scope of our 200% counter-impact.

Tour Header

Listing: Colombia Uncovered | Coffee, Coasts & The Lost City — 14 or 22 Days
Style: Small-group Classic | Standard service level | Age 12+
Regions: Caribbean Coast (Cartagena, Tayrona, Taganga/Santa Marta), Sierra Nevada (Minca, Lost City trek), Andean cities (Bogotá, Medellín) and Coffee Axis (Armenia/Salento/Cocora on 22-day)

Scope & Boundaries (what’s counted)

Guest travel to/from tour: Single official feeder hub → start city; end city → feeder hub after tour (open-jaw where applicable).
On-tour transport: Private vehicles, public bus segments, 4×4 to/from the Lost City trailhead, walking/urban transit; internal flights where listed (22-day).
Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses/hacienda + jungle camps on trek (HCMI-style proxies).
Meals: All meals over trip duration (included and at-own-expense) using a conservative per-meal factor.
Activities: Modest allowance for trek support and a typical coastal boat/snorkel option on free days (kept conservative).
Excluded: Long-haul beyond the feeder hub; personal shopping; extraordinary add-ons not typical for this route.

Feeder Hub — Single Origin City

Miami (MIA) selected as the hub for Caribbean/Andean Colombia circuits (short, frequent connectivity to CTG/BOG/SMR).

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

Aviation (economy, short/medium-haul): ~0.158 kgCO₂e/pax-km, × RF 1.9, + WTT.
Mini-coach/van/public bus/4×4: ~0.09 kgCO₂e/pax-km (smaller vehicles, mixed terrain; WTT included).
Accommodation proxies: Hotel/guesthouse ~12 kgCO₂e/night; jungle camp lower but rounded conservatively.
Meals: ~2.5 kgCO₂e per meal (production + prep).
Small-craft/trek support: ~50 kgCO₂e per guest allowance (applied once).

Activity Data (applied)

14-day (Cartagena → Santa Marta)

Aviation (hub routing): MIA → CTG (~1,820 km); SMR → MIA (~1,760 km) → ~3,580 km total
Surface: ~1,000 km combined (private vehicles + 4×4 to/from trailhead)
Nights: 13 (hotels/guesthouses; no hacienda nights)
Meals: ~42 (14×3)
Trek: 5 days Lost City (shared camps; all trek meals included day-to-day)

22-day (Bogotá → Santa Marta)

Aviation (hub + internal): MIA → BOG (~2,440 km); BOG → AXM (~180 km); MDE → CTG (~640 km); SMR → MIA (~1,760 km) → ~5,020 km total
Surface: ~1,700 km combined (incl. Salento → Medellín public bus)
Nights: 21 (incl. 2 hacienda + 4 jungle camp nights)
Meals: ~63 (22×3)
Trek: 5 days Lost City (as above)

Results — Per Guest (rounded)

14-day

Aviation (3,580 km; RF+WTT): ~1.10 tCO₂e
Surface transport: ~0.10 tCO₂e
Accommodation (13 nts): ~0.15 tCO₂e
Meals (~42): ~0.11 tCO₂e
Trek/boat allowance: ~0.05 tCO₂e
Subtotal: ~1.51 tCO₂e
+10% uncertainty uplift: ~1.66 tCO₂e
Rounded for communication: ~1.7 tCO₂e per guest

22-day

Aviation (5,020 km; RF+WTT): ~1.50 tCO₂e
Surface transport: ~0.20 tCO₂e
Accommodation (21 nts): ~0.24 tCO₂e
Meals (~63): ~0.16 tCO₂e
Trek/boat allowance: ~0.06 tCO₂e
Subtotal: ~2.16 tCO₂e
+10% uncertainty uplift: ~2.38 tCO₂e
Rounded for communication: ~2.4 tCO₂e per guest

Results — Per Tour (assumed 16 guests)

14-day: ~27 tCO₂e
22-day: ~38 tCO₂e

Assumptions (key)

Single-hub model fixed to Miami (MIA) for consistent reporting; numbers will vary with other hubs (NYC/LAX typically higher).
Ground factors set high for smaller vehicles, mixed gradients, and variable loads.
Meals counted in full (included + own-expense) to avoid underestimation.
One small-craft/boat/snorkel allowance included per guest even if not all participate (keeps estimate conservative).
+10% uplift covers itinerary variability (weather reroutes, park closures, idling, load factors).

Versioning

Method: Zero Trace Standard v1.9 (DEFRA-aligned; WTT included; RF 1.9 for aviation).
Date: 2 October 2025.
Preparer: Zero Trace (marketplace methodology; not the tour operator).

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Demanding (4/5). Expect heat, humidity, steep jungle sections, river crossings, and 1,200 stone steps to the Lost City. City walks and Cocora are moderate; the trek is the challenge. If you can comfortably hike 6–8 hrs on consecutive days, you’re set.

Small-group Classic style (typically up to ~16). A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) leads throughout; local/Indigenous guides join for Tayrona/Katanzama/Lost City.

Hotels/guesthouses + hacienda (22-day) most nights. On the Lost City trek (5 days) you’ll sleep in basic jungle camps in shared hammocks or rustic bunks with mosquito nets. No tent camping.

Yes—most breakfasts, several lunches/dinners, and all trek meals (see day-to-day). Common dietaries (veg/vegan/gluten-light) are usually fine with advance notice; bring favourite snacks for the trek.

What’s the luggage setup for the trek?

Your main bag stays in Santa Marta. Pack a 20–30 L day/duffel for the trek (aim light). Camps provide treated water; carry 2–3 L capacity on trail.

What internal travel is there (buses/flights/4×4)?

Both trips use private vehicles and 4×4 to/from the Lost City trailhead. The 22-day also includes BOG → Armenia and Medellín → Cartagena flights, plus a public bus Salento → Medellín. The 14-day is coast-focused with no internal flight.

Can I book my own room?

A limited My Own Room upgrade may be available (not on jungle-camp nights). Request at booking; it’s subject to availability.

How tough are the camp facilities?

Rustic. Cold-water washes, shared facilities, generator power where available, early starts. A sleeping bag liner, head torch, and earplugs help a lot.

Is Tayrona National Park always open?

No. It closes on fixed dates. When closed, you’ll visit Taironaka Park (Kogi culture, museum, river time) with no loss of value.

What’s the best time to go?

Near-equatorial = steady temps. Drier windows: Dec–Mar & Jul–Aug. Wetter windows: Apr–Jun & Sep–Nov (greener, muddier trails). The trek runs year-round; expect humidity anytime.

Do I need travel insurance and a visa?

Insurance is strongly recommended. Visa/eTA depends on your passport—check before booking flights.

How much cash should I carry—and is there Wi-Fi?

ATMs in Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Santa Marta; scarce near the trek. Carry small COP notes for snacks/tips. Wi-Fi is common in cities, patchy to none in Tayrona/trek areas.

What should I pack?

Quick-dry layers, broken-in hiking shoes, waterproof shell, electrolytes, insect repellent, head torch, and a 2–3 L hydration setup. See the full What to Pack list in this listing.

Is Colombia safe on this route?

These are established travel corridors. Use normal city sense (zipped daypack, rideshares/taxis at night), follow CEO guidance, and give wildlife space.

Are tips included?

No. Tipping is discretionary but appreciated for CEO, drivers, local/Indigenous guides, and trek staff. We can suggest local benchmarks on request.

Can I swim/snorkel on the coast?

Yes—free time around Taganga/Santa Marta often suits a snorkel dip. Always follow local advice on currents and permitted areas.

What’s different between the 14-day and 22-day options?

Both include Cartagena → Tayrona/Taganga/Santa Marta and the Lost City trek. The 22-day adds Bogotá, Coffee Axis (hacienda stay + Cocora/Salento), and Medellín.

CO₂ Emissions

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CO₂ Reductions

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The operator’s T&Cs apply immediately on these. Some departures are non-refundable or have stricter windows.

How to cancel

Email us your booking reference, names on the booking, and a one-line request (“Please cancel”).
We’ll reply with the exact penalties/refund or credit per your operator before proceeding.

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You’ll be offered an alternative date, a travel credit, or a refund according to that operator’s policy. We’ll advocate for the best outcome for you.

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Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
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Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.

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We’ll check new-date availability with the operator.
If a change is possible, you’ll pay any applicable operator change fee plus any price difference for the new date.
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When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.

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Your purchase is also covered by consumer laws in your country/state (fair trading/refund rights). We reference the applicable jurisdiction on your paperwork.

Extra peace of mind

Paying by credit card may add chargeback protection from your card issuer.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover situations outside operator/consumer protections (your own cancellation, medical, delays).

Absolutely. Our prices update live from the operator, but if you spot the same tour on the same dates with the same inclusions and terms advertised for less — even in a public sale or promo — we’ll match it.

Already booked? We’ll refund the difference to your original payment method (eligibility applies, based on the final checkout price including taxes/fees from an authorised seller). And yes, the matched price still includes our 200% carbon offset — no dilution of benefits.

Not for every trip—but for most travellers, we strongly recommend it

Some itineraries and partner operators do require insurance (especially remote treks, glacier walks, or bookings made via live operator calendars with mandatory cover).

When it’s required

Certain partners/departures make insurance compulsory and may ask for proof before departure. If you book one of these, their T&Cs apply immediately.

What good cover includes

Medical treatment & emergency evacuation/repatriation (high limits).
Trip cancellation/interruption (protects your deposit and balance if plans change).
Baggage & travel delay, and supplier default where available.
Coverage for all activities on your itinerary (e.g., trekking, glacier hikes, kayaking) and any relevant altitudes/conditions.
24/7 assistance hotline and a clear claims process.

When to buy

At booking. That way, cancellation benefits start immediately and you’re covered if something crops up before you travel.

How to share proof

Email us your policy certificate (names, policy number, assistance phone).
If you booked via an instant-confirmation operator calendar, follow their proof instructions and deadlines exactly.

Most departures run as planned, but guarantees depend on the operator and minimum numbers. If there’s a wobble, we’ll tell you fast and give you options.

How it works

Minimum group size: Most partners need a minimum number of travellers to confirm a trip.
When we confirm: Each operator has a confirmation window (often 30–60 days before departure). We monitor load and update you as status changes.
Any listing from "G-Adventures" will be guaranteed to run with a booking

If a trip is under-subscribed

We’ll contact you with clear options:

Move to another date (same tour)

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Any price differences for new dates/trips will be discussed before you decide.

If a trip is suspended (weather, park closures, strikes, force majeure)

First, we’ll look to re-route or adjust (e.g., alternative park, similar activities).
If that’s not viable, you can move dates, choose a different trip, or receive a refund/credit according to the operator’s policy.

Our promise

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Colombia Uncovered | Coffee, Coasts & The Lost City — 14 or 22 Days

Bogotá → Cartagena → Santa Marta

Moderate | Ages 12+

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Colombia Uncovered | Coffee, Coasts & The Lost City — 14 or 22 Days

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Country/Region

Country/Region

Colombia Uncovered | Coffee, Coasts & The Lost City — 14 or 22 Days

Bogotá → Cartagena → Santa Marta

Moderate | Ages 12+

Hotels/Camping

200% CO₂ Offset

Colombia Uncovered | Coffee, Coasts & The Lost City — 14 or 22 Days

Key Tour Info

We are working to bring live on-site reviews for this tour

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Point A - B Travel Time Estimator

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BOOKING & PAYMENT FAQ's

Choose Tour

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Verified Reviews

Live Dates, Matched Prices

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Vetted Tour Operators

200% Restoration Offsets