From Caribbean Sands to Andean Skies: 17 Days of Real Colombia | Cartagena → Bogotá

📍 Colombia | Guided | All Essentials

From Caribbean sands to Andean skies, discover Colombia’s coast, jungles, and highland cities in 17 days. Wander Cartagena’s old town, hike Tayrona and Cocora’s wax palms, and climb El Peñol for lake-island views.

San José → Medellin

San José → Medellin

Easy | Ages 18 - 39

Easy | Ages 18 - 39

Hostels/Hotels

Hostels/Hotels

200% CO₂  Offset

200% CO₂  Offset

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From Caribbean Sands to Andean Skies: 17 Days of Real Colombia | Cartagena → Bogotá
Tour Overview

From Caribbean Sands to Andean Skies: 17 Days of Real Colombia | Cartagena → Bogotá

Trace Colombia’s Caribbean coast, lush Sierra Nevada foothills, and the vibrant cities of Medellín and Bogotá on a 17-day small-group journey made for curious travellers. Expect old-town strolls, Tayrona trails, waterfall swims, and a rock-top panorama in Guatapé, balanced with flexible free time to follow your interests.

Across beaches, jungles, coffee country and the Andes, your CEO guide keeps logistics smooth while you choose your pace—gentle city walks, moderate valley hikes, street-food detours, or a cable-car ride above the skyline. It’s Colombia’s greatest hits with a few hidden gems—real, varied, and very alive.

Quick Facts

  • Duration: 17 days

  • Style: Small-group (18–39s), Basic service level

  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (city walks + moderate hikes)

  • Start/Finish: Cartagena → Bogotá

  • Transport: Private vehicles, internal flight, public bus, walking

  • Stays: Hotels & hostels (multi-share typical)

Trip Highlights

  • CEO-led walks in Cartagena’s old town and Bogotá’s La Candelaria

  • Minca base with the Marinka Waterfalls hike

  • Tayrona National Park visit with a guided jungle-to-beach trail

  • Palomino beach bonfire; optional river tubing (own expense)

  • Medellín transformation story on a Comuna 13 community-led tour (G for Good)

  • El Peñol (Guatapé) stair climb for lake-island views; colourful zócalos streets

  • Santa Rosa de Cabal hot springs and Cocora Valley wax-palm hike

Good to Know

  • Age range: 18–39. Social vibe; multi-share rooms are standard.

  • One internal flight (coast → Medellín); check baggage limits.

  • Climate shifts from humid coast to cooler highlands; Bogotá ~2,600 m—take it steady on arrival.

  • Included meals: 16 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner; the rest are your choice—great for tasting local staples.

  • Optional activities (tubing, boats, rafting, gondolas) are own expense and seasonal/availability-dependent.

  • Pack soft luggage; space is shared on vehicles and public buses.

Booking Terms & Conditions

Open | Live Dates & Availability
Loading dates, prices & spaces…
Itinerary
Days 1 & 2 | Old Town Warm-Up & Coastal Colour

Day 1 | Cartagena Welcome & Plaza Evenings

Arrive at any time. Evening Welcome Moment to meet your CEO and group, then the optional First Night Out around Plaza Trinidad in Getsemaní—street eats, music, and warm Caribbean air to kick things off.

Stay: Hotel (Cartagena; example: Hotel Villa Colonial or similar).

Included meals: None.

Included moments: Welcome Moment; First Night Out.

Day 2 | Walled-City Wanders & Free Afternoon

CEO-led orientation walk of Cartagena’s Old Town: Plaza de San Diego, city walls with Caribbean views, Heredia Theatre, Torre del Reloj (about 1–1.5 hours, 3–4 km). Afternoon free—consider San Felipe fortress, shaded plazas like Santo Domingo, cafés, museums, or an island visit.

Stay: Hotel (Cartagena).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Days 3 & 4 | Sierra Foothills: Minca Waterfalls & Jungle Quiet

Day 3 | Into the Green: Cartagena → Minca

Private vehicle Cartagena → Minca (~5 hours / 240 km). Settle into rainforest air and a laid-back mountain vibe; this small town is a launchpad for jungle hikes, rivers, and coffee/cacao plantations.

Stay: Hostel (Minca; example: On the Rock Hostel or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Day 4 | Marinka Falls Hike & Free Time

Morning hike to the Marinka Waterfalls (~45–60 min, ~4 km) for jungle cascades and a cold-water swim. Afternoon free—consider Pozo Azul river pools or a coffee/cacao farm tour.

Stay: Hostel (Minca).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: Marinka Waterfalls hike.

Optional extras (own expense): Coffee/cacao farm tour; Pozo Azul visit.

Days 5 & 6 | Palomino Vibes & Tayrona Trails

Day 5 | Minca → Palomino: Beach Bonfire Night

Private vehicle Minca → Palomino (~2 hours / 88 km). Free time for lunch and a beach wander. At sunset, gather for a Palomino beach bonfire (about 1 hour). Evening free to explore this easygoing coastal town.

Stay: Hotel (Palomino; example: La Riviera Playa or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional extras (own expense): River tubing beneath jungle canopy.

Day 6 | Tayrona National Park: Jungle-to-Beach

Private vehicle Palomino → Tayrona NP (~1 hour / 44 km) and return. Spend 4–4.5 hours on a moderate guided hike through Tayrona’s dense forest and coastal coves. Lunch included. Evening free back in Palomino—sunset strolls encouraged.

Stay: Hotel (Palomino).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Included activity: Tayrona National Park visit & guided hike.

Days 7 & 8 | Santa Marta Strolls & Flight to the City of Eternal Spring

Day 7 | Palomino → Santa Marta: Plazas & Malecón

Private vehicle Palomino → Santa Marta (~2 hours / 82 km). Join a CEO-led walk (~45 min / 1–2 km) past Parque de los Novios, Parque Bolívar, the Camellón waterfront, and the marina. Afternoon free; optional Big Night Out with the group.

Stay: Hotel (Santa Marta; example: Hotel Tayromar or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Day 8 | Fly to Medellín: First Taste of the Andes

Mid-morning flight Santa Marta → Medellín (~1 hour; ~850 km). Free time to settle in; optional night out to sample the city’s energy.

Stay: Hotel (Medellín; example: Hotel Punto 70 or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Days 9 & 10 | Medellín: Stories of Change & A Free Day to Roam

Day 9 | Comuna 13 with the Locals (G for Good)

Join a community-led tour of Comuna 13 to hear transformation stories, see vibrant street art, and meet women-led social enterprises. Time for lunch and exploring neighbourhoods, plazas, or viewpoints.

Stay: Hotel (Medellín).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: Comuna 13 community tour (G for Good).

Day 10 | Medellín Your Way

A full free day: ride the Metrocable for panoramic views, visit museums, take a day trip to an adventure hub, or café-hop and people-watch.

Stay: Hotel (Medellín).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional extras (own expense): Day trips, museums, Metrocable ride.

Days 11 & 12 | Guatapé Lakes & Rock-Top Panoramas

Day 11 | Medellín → Guatapé: El Peñol Climb

Private vehicle Medellín → Guatapé (~2 hours / 82 km). Ascend the 649 steps of El Peñol (La Piedra) for sweeping lake-island views. CEO-led orientation walk through colourful zócalos streets; free time on the waterfront.

Stay: Hotel (Guatapé; example: Hotel Bambu or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: El Peñol climb + CEO-led Guatapé walk.

Day 12 | Guatapé Free Day: Water & Colour

Soak up Guatapé’s playful vibe. Glide out on a boat or kayak, photograph the story-panelled façades, or linger in cafés with arepas and fresh cheeses.

Stay: Hotel (Guatapé).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional extras (own expense): Boat trip, kayaking.

Days 13 & 14 | Hot Springs & Wax Palms

Day 13 | Guatapé → Santa Rosa de Cabal: Soak & Unwind

Private vehicle Guatapé → Santa Rosa de Cabal (~7 hours / 303 km) with a lunch stop en route (own expense). Evening hot-springs visit—mineral pools ringed by lush slopes and waterfall mist.

Stay: Hotel (Santa Rosa de Cabal; example: Hotel Suite Santa Rosa or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: Santa Rosa de Cabal hot springs.

Day 14 | Cocora Valley Hike → Salento

Morning transfer to Cocora Valley for a 2–3 hour hike among towering wax palms (Colombia’s national tree). Continue to Salento for a colourful Andean-town afternoon.

Stay: Hotel (Salento; example: El Rancho de Salento or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Included activity: Cocora Valley hike.

Days 15 & 16 | Highlands to Capital: Bogotá Old Quarters & Farewell

Day 15 | Salento Morning → Bogotá by Road & Bus

Free morning in Salento—consider a coffee finca experience—then private vehicle Salento → Armenia (~1 hour) and public bus Armenia → Bogotá (~7 hours). Evening arrival; dinner as you wish.

Stay: Hotel (Bogotá; example: Hotel Grace Chapinero or similar).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional extras (own expense): Coffee farm visit (morning).

Day 16 | La Candelaria & City Farewell

CEO-led La Candelaria walk (~1.5 hours) among colonial lanes and bold murals; afternoon free for museums, viewpoints, or a cable-car ride. Farewell dinner together this evening.

Stay: Hotel (Bogotá).

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Included activity: La Candelaria walking tour.

Day 17 | Bogotá Departure

Depart at any time.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Key Tour Info

Route Map
Food & Accommodation

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

Where You’ll Be Staying

  • Nights 1–2 — Cartagena: Hotel in/near the old town (multi-share typical). Walkable to plazas, cafés, and the city walls.
  • Nights 3–4 — Minca: Hostel in the Sierra foothills (shared rooms). Simple, social base with jungle vibes and trail access.
  • Nights 5–6 — Palomino: Hotel near the beach. Easy strolls to sand, sunset, and casual eateries.
  • Night 7 — Santa Marta: Hotel close to the waterfront and Parque de los Novios.
  • Nights 8–10 — Medellín: Hotel in a lively neighbourhood with transit access (great for Metrocable/museums).
  • Nights 11–12 — Guatapé: Hotel near the malecón and colourful zócalos streets.
  • Night 13 — Santa Rosa de Cabal: Hotel with straightforward access to the hot springs.
  • Night 14 — Salento: Hotel in town; cafés and craft shops at your doorstep.
  • Nights 15–16 — Bogotá: Hotel in a central district for La Candelaria and viewpoints.

Rooms & facilities: Multi-share rooms are standard (18–39s Basic service level). Private rooms may be limited on request. Expect Wi-Fi in towns/cities, air-con or fans on the coast, and cooler nights inland. Laundry options appear in major hubs (Cartagena, Medellín, Bogotá).

Vibe: Social, walkable bases that keep you close to the action—plazas at dusk, street food runs, early starts for hikes and day trips.

What You’ll Be Eating

  • Included meals: 16 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner (see day-to-day).
  • Style:Breakfasts: Simple hotel/hostel spreads—fruit, breads, eggs where offered, hot drinks.Lunches: Mostly your choice; one included lunch on the Tayrona day. Expect arepas, fresh juices, coastal seafood, and coffee that actually tastes like coffee.Dinners: Mostly at your choice of local spots; one included farewell dinner in Bogotá.
  • Dietaries: Common needs can usually be accommodated with advance notice; options vary in small towns—pack favourite snacks if you’re strict (e.g., vegan/gluten-free).
  • Water & drinks: Potable water/easy refill points in towns; carry a reusable bottle. Alcohol is BYO/own expense.

This setup keeps things flexible for flavour-hunting while guaranteeing a reliable start to each day and a couple of shared meals in standout locations.

What's Included & What's Not

✅ What’s Included

Itinerary Activities

  • CEO-led orientation walks in Cartagena, Santa Marta, Guatapé, and Bogotá (La Candelaria)
  • Marinka Waterfalls hike (Minca)
  • Tayrona National Park visit with guided hike (includes lunch)
  • Palomino beach bonfire
  • Comuna 13 community-led visit (G for Good) in Medellín
  • El Peñol (La Piedra) climb + Guatapé town walk
  • Santa Rosa de Cabal hot springs visit
  • Cocora Valley wax-palm hike

Guides

  • Professional Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout

Accommodation

  • 16 nights total: Hotels (14) + Hostels (2, multi-share typical)

Meals

  • 16 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner (as per day-to-day)

Transport

  • Private vehicles, one internal flight (Santa Marta → Medellín), public bus (Armenia → Bogotá), and walking segments

Fees & Impact

  • Park/site access where part of the scheduled inclusions (e.g., Tayrona, hot springs, El Peñol)
  • Responsible travel guidance (refill bottles, respect wildlife/culture)

🚫 What’s Not Included

  • International flights to Cartagena / from Bogotá
  • Airport transfers (arrival/departure) unless specified otherwise
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Visas/entry documents (e.g., Colombia entry requirements)
  • Optional extras (own expense): e.g., Palomino river tubing, Guatapé boat/kayak, Medellín/Bogotá museum entries, gondolas/cable cars, day trips not listed as included
  • Meals and snacks not listed as included; personal drinks (alcohol is BYO/own expense)
  • Personal expenses: laundry, phone/Wi-Fi charges, souvenirs
  • Tipping/gratuities for CEO and local guides (at your discretion)
Weather Expectations

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Overview
This itinerary crosses humid Caribbean coast, Sierra Nevada foothills, the Aburrá Valley (Medellín/Guatapé), the Coffee Axis (Santa Rosa/Salento/Cocora), and high-altitude Bogotá. Colombia sits near the equator, so temperatures are steady year-round; what changes is rainfall by region and month. Pack light layers and quick-dry fabrics.

Rainfall rhythm (rule of thumb)

  • Two wetter windows: Apr–Jun and Sep–Nov (heaviest on the Andean slopes).
  • Drier windows: Dec–Mar and Jul–Aug (still expect short showers).
  • Coast can see brief downpours any month; mountains get afternoon showers and cooler nights.

By Region

  • Cartagena / Santa Marta / Palomino / Tayrona (Sea level)Temp: ~25–32 °C; humid with warm nights (~24–27 °C).Rain: Short, heavy bursts; Sep–Nov is soggiest. Dec–Mar tends drier.Feel: Strong sun, salty breezes; shade and hydration matter.
  • Minca (Foothills ~650–700 m)Temp: ~20–28 °C; mornings fresh, nights ~18–21 °C.Rain: Showers more frequent than coast; trails can be muddy after rain.Feel: Jungle humidity, excellent for waterfalls; mozzies at dusk.
  • Medellín / Guatapé (1,500–2,000 m)Temp: ~17–26 °C; “eternal spring.” Evenings 16–19 °C.Rain: Apr–May and Oct–Nov wetter; quick-clearing showers common.Feel: Pleasant days; carry a light rain shell for afternoons.
  • Santa Rosa de Cabal / Salento & Cocora (1,500–2,000 m; trails to ~2,400 m)Temp: ~14–24 °C; cooler, cloudier; nights 12–16 °C.Rain: Frequent mist and showers; Cocora trails can be slick.Feel: Lush and green; pack waterproofs, gaiters/quick-dry socks useful.
  • Bogotá (≈2,600 m)Temp: ~10–20 °C; nights 8–12 °C.Rain: Peaks in Apr–May and Oct–Nov; drizzly spells possible.Feel: High-altitude UV and cooler breeze; a warm mid-layer is essential.

Sun, Wind & UV

  • UV is strong even on cool days—hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ are non-negotiable.
  • Coastal breezes moderate heat; mountain valleys can funnel gusty winds near passes and ridgelines.

Daylight

  • Near-equatorial: ~11.5–12.5 hours of light year-round. Early starts = quieter sights and cooler walks.

Trail & Conditions Notes

  • Surfaces range paved → cobbles → dirt/mud; after rain, expect slick steps (El Peñol) and muddy tracks (Cocora, Minca).
  • Always carry: light waterproof, packable mid-layer, and dry bag for phone/camera.
⭐ Reviews
What To Pack

What to Pack

Essentials

  • Daypack (20–25 L) with hip belt + dry bags for rain.
  • Refillable water bottles (1.5–2 L total) or hydration bladder.
  • Head torch (spare batteries) + 10–20k mAh power bank.
  • Microfibre towel, small toiletries kit, hand sanitiser.
  • Personal first-aid (blister care, pain relief, any meds, rehydration salts).
  • Travel adapter (Type A/B, 110–120 V).

Layering & Weather

  • Quick-dry shirts/shorts, one light long pant.
  • Breathable base layer (top) for cooler highlands.
  • Light fleece or insulated jacket (Bogotá nights can be 8–12 °C).
  • Waterproof, windproof shell (hooded) + compact rain pants.
  • Warm beanie/light gloves for Cocora/early mornings.

Footwear

  • Sturdy walking shoes/boots with tread (already broken-in).
  • Light sandals/camp shoes for coast and evenings.
  • Merino/synthetic socks (3–4 pairs) + spare laces.

Sun & Insect

  • Sun hat, UV sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen + lip balm (SPF).
  • Insect repellent (picaridin/DEET) + after-bite cream.
  • Light long sleeves/pants for dusk in jungle/coast.

Documents & Money

  • Passport, required visa/entry docs (e.g., eTA equivalents if applicable), and travel insurance details (printed + digital).
  • Credit/debit card + small amount of COP cash.
  • Copies of key documents stored separately.

Nice-to-Haves

  • Swimwear (coast, waterfalls, hot springs).
  • Trekking poles (collapsible) for Cocora and slick trails.
  • Reusable mug/spork for snacks and early starts.
  • Earplugs & eye mask (hostels/cities).
  • Small binoculars (wildlife/birding).
  • Light scarf/neck gaiter (sun, wind, dust).

Style & Packing Tips

  • Pack light and soft (duffel > hard case) for shared vehicle space.
  • Clothes should be modest and breathable for city visits and cultural sites.
  • Always keep a rain layer and dry bag handy—showers roll through quickly, especially in the Andes and Tayrona.
Local Insights

Local Insights

  • Caribbean heat, Andean cool: Pack for humidity on the coast and springlike days/cool nights inland. A light rain shell is as useful in Medellín as it is in Cocora—showers clear fast but trails stay slick.
  • Wax palms 101: Those towering wax palms in Cocora can reach ~60 m. Trails feel cooler and muddier than town—waterproof shoes and gaiters/quick-dry socks pay off.
  • Altitude check: Bogotá (~2,600 m) can feel breathy on day one. Take it steady, hydrate, and keep the first afternoon mellow.
  • Street food smartly: Colombia’s street eats are a highlight. Favour stalls with high turnover, hot sizzles, and a wash station visible. Fresh juices are common—ask for sin hielo if you’re cautious with ice.
  • Cash & cards: Cards work widely in cities; small cash helps for markets, buses, and rural kiosks. ATMs are plentiful in hubs (Cartagena, Medellín, Bogotá); withdraw inside malls/banks when possible.
  • Transport tips: The Metrocable in Medellín is more than a view—it connects hillside barrios to the city grid. Ride outside rush hour for space and skyline panoramas.
  • Comuna 13 respectfully: It’s a community-led visit—follow local-guide cues, ask before photos, and buy a snack or craft if you can. Your pesos support small businesses directly.
  • Wildlife & water: Rivers and waterfalls tempt quick dips (Minca, Palomino, hot springs). Mind currents, heed local advice, and avoid cliff jumps unless supervised and permitted.
  • Beach & sun sense: UV is strong year-round—hat, SPF, sunglasses. For Tayrona, start early for cooler trails and lighter crowds; pack out everything you pack in.
  • Coffee country etiquette: Fincas are working farms—stick to paths, don’t touch machinery, and ask before sampling cherries. Barista tip: try a tinto campesino (sweetened black) vs a flat white to taste local style.
  • Safety baseline: Colombia’s popular routes are well-trod. Use normal city sense: keep phones zipped on busy streets, registered taxis/rideshares at night, and hotel safes for passports.
  • Language & warmth: A few phrases go far—buenos días, gracias, por favor—and a smile opens doors. Colombians are proud hosts; curiosity and courtesy are returned in kind.
CO₂ Footprint Report
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)

  • Estimated per guest (17 days): ~2.2 tCO₂e
  • Estimated per tour (assumed 16 guests): ~35 tCO₂e
  • Counter-impact applied: 200% (targeting ~4.4 tCO₂e per guest)
  • Method note: High-estimate using DEFRA-aligned factors with Well-to-Tank and RF = 1.9 for aviation; scope includes single-hub guest travel, all meals (included and off-tour), local/intercity transport, accommodation, and one small-craft day per guest. +10% uncertainty uplift applied.

Purpose

Provide a clear, conservative estimate of greenhouse-gas emissions for informed travel choices and transparent 200% counter-impact.

Tour Header

  • Tour: From Caribbean Sands to Andean Skies | Cartagena → Bogotá | 17 days
  • Style: Small-group (18–39s), Basic service level
  • Regions: Caribbean coast, Sierra Nevada foothills, Antioquia (Medellín/Guatapé), Coffee Axis, Bogotá

Scope & Boundaries (what’s counted)

  • Guest travel to/from tour: Single official feeder hub → Cartagena (CTG) at start; Bogotá (BOG) → feeder hub after the tour (open-jaw).
  • On-tour transport: Private vehicles, one internal flight (Santa Marta → Medellín), one public bus (Armenia → Bogotá), urban transit/walking.
  • Accommodation: 16 nights (hotels + hostels) using HCMI-style proxies.
  • Meals: All meals for the full trip duration (included and off-tour).
  • Activities: 1 small-craft/water day per guest (conservative allowance for typical behaviour).
  • 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 single official hub for Colombia’s Caribbean/Andean circuits (short, frequent connectivity to CTG/BOG).

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults (overview)

  • Aviation (economy, short/medium-haul): ~0.158 kgCO₂e/pax-km base × RF 1.9 + WTT uplift (applied).
  • Mini-coach/van & public bus: ~0.09 kgCO₂e/pax-km (conservative, mixed terrain, WTT incl.).
  • Accommodation proxies: Hotel ~12 kgCO₂e/night, Hostel ~10 kgCO₂e/night.
  • Meals: ~2.5 kgCO₂e per meal (production + prep, averaged).
  • Small-craft day: ~50 kgCO₂e per guest (boat/kayak allowance; conservative).

Activity Data (applied)

  • Aviation (hub routing + internal):MIA → CTG: ~1,820 kmSMR → MDE (internal): ~580 kmBOG → MIA: ~2,440 kmTotal aviation distance: ~4,840 km
  • Road & bus: ~1,700 km combined (private vehicles + public bus).
  • Accommodation: 16 nights (14 hotel + 2 hostel).
  • Meals: ~51 meals (17 days × 3/day).
  • Small-craft/water day: 1 per guest (e.g., typical boat/kayak/tubing allowance).

Results — Per Guest (rounded)

  • Aviation (4,840 km; RF+WTT): ~1.45 tCO₂e
  • Road & bus (1,700 km): ~0.15 tCO₂e
  • Accommodation (16 nights): ~0.19 tCO₂e
  • Meals (~51): ~0.13 tCO₂e
  • Small-craft allowance (1 day): ~0.05 tCO₂e
  • Subtotal: ~1.97 tCO₂e
  • +10% uncertainty uplift:~2.16 tCO₂e
  • Rounded for communication: ~2.2 tCO₂e per guest

Results — Per Tour (assumed 16 guests)

  • Estimated total: ~35 tCO₂e

Assumptions (key)

  • Single-hub model fixed to Miami for consistent, comparable reporting across Colombia itineraries.
  • Mini-coach/van factor set intentionally high vs standard coach to reflect smaller vehicles and elevation changes.
  • Meals counted in full (included + off-tour) to avoid underestimation.
  • One small-craft/water day included per guest even if not all participate (keeps estimate conservative).
  • +10% uplift covers variability (weather reroutes, 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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Tour FAQ's
How fit do I need to be?

This trip is Easy to Moderate—think city walks, a few moderate hikes (e.g., Tayrona, Cocora), stairs at El Peñol, and warm coastal humidity. Optional adventure add-ons are… optional.

What’s the accommodation like? Will I be sharing?

Hotels (14 nights) and hostels (2 nights, multi-share typical) across cities, coast, and small towns. Simple, social bases close to the action; facilities vary by stop.

How big is the group and who leads it?

Small-group, 18–39s, led by a professional Chief Experience Officer (CEO) from start to finish.

What meals are included—and can you handle dietary needs?

16 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner are included. Most other meals are your choice—great for trying street eats and local spots. Common dietaries can usually be accommodated with advance notice; bring favourite snacks if you’re strict.

More FAQ's

How does the internal travel work?

One internal flight (Santa Marta → Medellín), several private vehicle transfers, a public bus (Armenia → Bogotá), and walking/urban transit. Baggage limits apply to the flight—pack light and soft.

Can I get my own room?

A limited My Own Room upgrade may be available on request (not guaranteed on every night). Ask at booking for availability and pricing.

What’s the camping situation?

There’s no camping on this itinerary—hotels/hostels only.

How do optional activities work (tubing, boat/kayak, museums, cable cars)?

They’re own expense unless listed as included. Your CEO will outline timings, costs, and how to book on tour. Availability can be seasonal and weather-dependent.

How much luggage can I bring?

Space is shared. Bring one soft main bag/duffel and a daypack. Hard suitcases make bus and small-hotel moves harder.

Will I have phone signal or Wi-Fi?

Cities and large towns have good coverage and Wi-Fi; smaller places (e.g., trails, Tayrona) can be patchy. Expect some offline pockets.

Is Colombia safe on this route?

These are well-trodden travel corridors. Use normal city sense: keep valuables zipped, use registered taxis/rideshares at night, and follow CEO guidance—especially in busy areas.

Do I need travel insurance or a visa?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Visa/eTA needs depend on your passport—check requirements before booking flights.

Is the itinerary guaranteed?

The spirit is, but weather, park advisories, flight changes, or road conditions may prompt adjustments. Your CEO will keep days smooth and experience-focused.

What isn’t included that I should budget for?

International flights, airport transfers, optional extras, meals/snacks not listed, personal drinks (alcohol is BYO/own expense), laundry, souvenirs, and tips for CEO/local guides (at your discretion).

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A) "Book with Deposit"

  1. Place a deposit. You’ll pay the deposit at checkout.
  2. Tell us the details. You’ll receive an email asking for your tour name/date, passenger details, and any special requests (room type, extras, dietaries, etc.).
  3. We secure your spots. If everything’s clear, we confirm your booking by email so you can lock flights and plan the rest.
  4. If we need anything (e.g., room configuration, add-on activities), we’ll ask—then issue confirmation once sorted.
  5. Final balance invoice. After confirmation, you’ll be invoiced the remainder in line with the trips booking terms & conditions (each trip/partner has its own timeline but full payment is generally required at least 30 days prior to departure).
  6. If we are unable to confirm your spot: you’ll receive a full refund of your deposit. Zero stress.

B) Instant confirmation route (selected trips)

  • Some departures use live operator booking calendars. These can deliver instant confirmation inside the operator’s system.
  • If you book this way, the operator’s terms & conditions apply immediately (including payment schedules and change/cancellation rules).

Good to know

  • Each trip may have slightly different deadlines and deposit rules—You can find the terms and conditions for your chosen booking on the listing page.
  • You can still flag special requests after deposit—earlier is better for availability.
What’s your cancellation & refund policy?

Before your booking is confirmed

  • If we can’t confirm your spots after you’ve paid a deposit, we’ll issue a full refund of that deposit.

After your booking is confirmed

  • Cancellations follow the operator’s cancellation schedule (varies by trip and how close you are to departure).
  • Expect possible fees or non-refundable items (e.g., internal flights, permits, certain accommodations).
  • If a refund or credit is due, we’ll process it once the operator releases the funds and pass it back to your original payment method.

Instant-confirmation bookings (live operator calendars)

  • 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.

If the operator cancels or significantly changes your trip

  • 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.

Good to know

  • Refunds are returned to the original payment method; bank/FX fees aren’t usually recoverable.
  • Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
  • The earlier you contact us, the better your options typically are.
Can I change dates or transfer my booking?

Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.

Date changes

  • 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.
  • The closer to departure, the tighter (and costlier) changes become; some trips treat late changes as a cancel + rebook under the operator’s policy.

Transfer to another person (name change)

  • Many operators allow a name change/transfer up to a certain cut-off.
  • Fees and deadlines vary by operator and services booked (e.g., flights may be non-transferable).

Instant-confirmation bookings

  • If you booked via a live operator calendar, the operator’s T&Cs apply immediately. Some departures are non-changeable or have stricter windows.

How to request a change

  • Email us with your booking reference, preferred new date/person’s details, and any flexibility.
  • We’ll confirm options, fees, and any price differences before making changes.

Pro tips

  • Ask early—more seats = more options, lower fees.
  • Consider travel insurance that covers change/cancellation costs.
  • Always check booking terms and conditions, links displayed on each tour page under the overview.
Are you accredited / is my money protected?

Yes. Your money is protected by our own accreditation and safeguards, plus the protections of our tour partners and the payment methods we use.

Our business safeguards

  • Legally registered business with documented booking & refund policies.
  • Commercial insurance appropriate to our operations.
  • VTIC Quality Tourism Accreditation (Quality Tourism Accredited Business) confirming we meet industry standards for customer service, safety, and risk management.

Operator-level protection

  • We partner only with established operators who maintain their own financial protections and clear refund/credit policies.
  • When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.

How your payment is handled

  • All card payments run through a secure, PCI-compliant gateway; we don’t store your full card details.
  • If you book through a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly into the operator’s system, and their terms & protections apply immediately.

Your legal rights

  • 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).
Do you offer price matching?

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.

Do I need travel insurance?

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.

Are departures guaranteed?

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)

Switch to a comparable trip

Full refund of monies paid (per the operator’s terms)

  • 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

  • Proactive comms: We’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more—no last-minute surprises if we can help it.
  • No pressure choices: You pick the outcome; we handle the admin.
  • Flight advice: Until your tour is confirmed, book flexible/refundable flights or add insurance that covers schedule changes.

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

RESTORE

RESTORE

REPEAT

REPEAT

- RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW -