Voices of Colombia: A Journey of Peace, Culture & Transformation
From: 2026-09-21 To: 2026-10-03
Bogotá to Cartagena, Told by the People Rebuilding It
Picture this: walking the streets of Bogotá with former gang leaders who
now guide their neighborhood's peace, standing beneath the towering wax palms
of Cocora, and witnessing Medellín’s incredible urban renewal in Moravia
and Comuna 13. Built entirely around Colombia’s true heart—its change-makers—this
13-day journey across four regions connects you directly with the people
shaping the country’s future. From learning four centuries of freedom in San
Basilio de Palenque to casting fishing nets alongside local families in La
Boquilla, you’ll discover an authentic, living history rooted in resilience,
hope, and warmth. It’s time to experience Colombia through the extraordinary
souls who make it unforgettable!
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Travel Colombia with the people who know it best.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
Bogota Airport Transfer In
Monday, September 21, 2026
Bogota Airport Transfer In
Pick up time: 10:00
Duration: Flexible
Enjoy a comfortable, stress-free private transfer from El Dorado Airport to your hotel in Bogotá. Meet your professional guide upon arrival and start your trip with total ease and peace of mind.
Included
- Bilingual guide
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Day 2:
Paloquemao Market Fruit Tour - Breaking Borders - Social Impact Graffiti Tour
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Paloquemao Market Fruit Tour
Start Time:
08:30
Duration: 3 hrs.
Navigate the vibrant aisles of Paloquemao Plaza to taste the immense biodiversity of Colombia through ancestral herbs, fresh artisanal breads, and a curated selection of exotic fruits alongside the local merchants who sustain the city’s heart.
Paloquemao Plaza stands as Bogotá’s essential pantry, a rhythmic epicenter where the diversity of the Colombian territory converges daily. This is more than a place of commerce; it is a living archive of family lineages and community resilience. Meet the merchants behind local initiatives whose stories weave a narrative of pride and collective growth within these bustling concrete aisles, revealing a side of the city rooted in labor and tradition.
The journey begins amidst the heavy fragrance of cut flowers and the earthy aroma of medicinal herbs. Walk past stalls of textured handicrafts and listen to the sharp calls of vendors before settling into a sensory banquet. Taste warm, artisanal breads and then transition to a curated tasting of 20 exotic fruits—from the sharp acidity of tropical varieties to the creamy depths of Andean harvests. Each flavor reflects a different altitude and soil, offering a tangible map of the country’s geography.
Engaging with Paloquemao offers a profound look into Colombia’s identity as a global fruit reserve. Beyond the immediate flavors, the experience explores the importance of seed preservation and the contemporary movement toward diverse, organic eating habits. Conclude with a refreshing toast of fruit extracts, celebrating the land’s abundance and the enduring legacy of the people who cultivate, transport, and share its riches every morning.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Low physical demand. The experience involves a walk of approximately 1 km (0.62 mi) on flat, covered concrete surfaces.
- Accessibility: The market is wheelchair accessible, though the aisles are frequently busy with high pedestrian and cart traffic. The experience is suitable for all ages, though a minimum age of 5 is suggested for children to best enjoy the variety of tastings.
- Logistics:
- The market environment is most vibrant and active during the morning hours.
- High visitor and merchant traffic is common throughout the plaza.
- It is recommended to have a very light breakfast or skip it entirely to fully enjoy the food and fruit tastings.
- Packing List:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Hand sanitizer
- Dress Code: Casual and comfortable clothing appropriate for a busy public market.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
- Fruit and local snacks tasting experience with bilingual host at Paloquemao Market
- Small group tour
- Lunch
Breaking Borders - Social Impact Graffiti Tour
Start Time:
14:00
Duration: 3 hrs.
Explore the resilient spirit of Bogotá’s eastern hills alongside former gang members. Walk through steep, graffiti-lined streets where street art and personal memory reveal a profound transition from conflict to a contemporary culture of peace.
Step into the Egipto neighborhood, a district perched just above Bogotá's colonial center, where identity is forged through territory and shared history. Here, the narrative is led by community leaders who once navigated the complexities of gang life but now champion a collective vision of peace. Their voices carry the weight of memory and the clarity of transformation, offering an unfiltered look at a community that defines itself by its resilience rather than its past.
Walk the steep, rhythmic slopes of the eastern hills, where the air feels thinner and the cityscape stretches out below. The texture of the neighborhood is raw—rough-hewn stones, weathered facades, and vibrant murals that reclaim public space. At El Cuadrado, once a site of tension and now a canvas for remembrance, the sight of bold, contemporary graffiti serves as a visual archive. Every mural captures the faces and stories of those who stayed to rebuild, turning narrow alleys into galleries of local heritage.
This experience transcends traditional tourism by fostering genuine human connection through dialogue and shared space. It reveals a Colombia in the midst of profound change, where art serves as a tool for reconciliation and urban renewal. By walking these streets, the significance of local sovereignty and the power of individual agency become clear. It is a testament to the contemporary pulse of Bogotá—a city that continues to heal through memory, art, and community action.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Moderate physical demand. The route covers approximately 2 km (1.2 mi) across steep, cobbled streets and include several sections of stairs at an altitude of 2,640 m (8,661 ft).
- Accessibility: This experience is not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and frequent stairs. It is recommended for participants aged 13 to 15 and older who are comfortable with sustained walking on inclines.
- Logistics:
- The experience takes place within a residential community where respect for local privacy is paramount.
- Weather in the Andes is unpredictable and can change from bright sun to rain quickly.
- The project is unavailable on January 6 due to local community observances.
- Packing List:
- Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Rain jacket
- Water bottle
- Light layers
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing suitable for walking and mountain weather is recommended.
Included
- Egipto Neighborhood community walking experience
- Snack
- Bilingual Guide
- Private vehicle
Day 3:
A taste of Change with visit to Casa de la Paz and City Tour
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
A taste of Change with visit to Casa de la Paz and City Tour
Start Time:
08:00
Duration: 9.5 hrs.
Trace Colombia’s path toward peace through the sensory landscape of Bogotá. From the heights of Monserrate to ancestral gold collections, engage with artists, former combatants, and local flavors that define the city’s resilient contemporary identity.
Bogotá stands as a dense tapestry where history and hope intersect. Following the 2016 Peace Agreement, the capital transforms into a living laboratory for reconciliation. Meet the artists, chefs, and former combatants who turn memory into a tool for the future, revealing a city that processes its past through collective action and creative expression. The narrative moves beyond the headlines, focusing on the human scale of transformation and the personal stories that weave the country's new social fabric.
Ascend to the sanctuary of Monserrate, where the crisp Andean air meets a panoramic view of the sprawling urban grid below at 3,152 m (10,341 ft). Descend into the rhythmic heart of the city center, walking along Avenida Jimenez toward the monumental Plaza de Bolívar. The journey unfolds through taste and texture: the sharp acidity of exotic fruits, the deep profiles of local chocolate, and the rustic finish of craft beer at Casa de la Paz. Step into Fragmentos, an anti-monument where the floor itself—forged from melted weapons—speaks of a silent, weighted transition and the textured memory of the territory.
This experience reaches its peak at the table of Luz Dary, whose culinary craft tells a story of survival and triumph over displacement. Her kitchen serves as a space for healing, mirroring the nation's own journey toward a shared identity through the medium of ancestral flavors. The day concludes at the Gold Museum, where thousands of pre-Hispanic artifacts reflect a legacy of craftsmanship that predates the Republic, grounding the contemporary struggle for peace in a deep, enduring heritage that continues to shape Colombian identity today.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Moderate physical demand. The experience involves sustained walking through urban areas with uneven cobbled streets and significant altitude at 2,640 m (8,661 ft).
- Accessibility: Accessibility is limited due to historic cobbled streets, stairs, and steep slopes in the city center and at the Monserrate sanctuary.
- Logistics:
- The Gold Museum and Fragmentos are typically closed on Mondays.
- Monserrate experiences very high visitor volume on Sundays.
- Casa de la Paz is closed on Sundays; an an alternative local experience is provided at Plaza de la Concordia.
- Weather in the Andes is unpredictable and can change rapidly throughout the day.
- Packing List:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket or small umbrella
- Light layers for shifting temperatures
- Sunscreen and hat
- Refillable water bottle
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing is recommended for a full day of urban exploration.
Included
- Coffee tasting at Arte y Pasión
- Local Beer La Trocha
- Chocolate tasting
- Lunch at Mamá Luz
- Entrance to the Gold Museum
- Fast pass Monserrate
- Ice cream tasting
- Snack at Apotecario del Condor
- Bilingual Guide
- Private Vehicle
Day 4:
Bogota Airport Transfer Out - Flight Ticket - Transfer In Salento
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Bogota Airport Transfer Out
Pick up time: 09:00
Duration: Flexible
Travel hassle-free from your hotel in Bogotá to El Dorado Airport. Enjoy a comfortable private ride with a professional driver, ensuring a timely arrival for your flight.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Transfer In Salento
Pick up time: 12:00
Enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free private transfer with pick-up at the airport directly to your hotel in Salento. Start your stay stress-free as you arrive in this iconic colorful town surrounded by the Coffee Region.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Day 5:
Salento, Filandia & the Art of Basket Weaving - Ritual and Planting the Wax Palm in Cocora Valley
Friday, September 25, 2026
Salento, Filandia & the Art of Basket Weaving
Start Time:
09:00
Duration: 7 hrs.
Explore the vibrant streets of Salento and Filandia, where coffee culture meets ancestral craftsmanship. Meet local artisans to learn the rhythmic art of basket weaving and discover the culinary heritage of Quindío's heritage-rich colonial towns.
Salento and Filandia stand as guardians of the Coffee Cultural Landscape, where the rhythm of daily life follows the cycles of the harvest and the steady hands of master craftsmen. In these high-altitude towns of Quindío, colonial architecture serves as a backdrop for a living heritage rooted in community and territorial pride. The people here carry the memory of the arrieros (muleteers) and the quiet dignity of those who shape the land through both agriculture and ancestral craft.
Walk along the Calle Real in Salento, where the scent of roasted beans mingles with the crisp mountain air and the vibrant hues of hand-painted doors. The sensory landscape evolves in Filandia, a town defined by its preserved colonial balconies and the focused movements of its master weavers. Taste the rustic crunch of a local patacón and observe the intricate patterns of the cestería (basketry) tradition. In the quiet of an artisan's workshop, feel the raw texture of bejuco vines as they bend into geometric forms, bridging the gap between raw nature and human utility.
This journey reveals the contemporary soul of the Colombian Andes, where traditional labor finds new relevance in a globalized era. By engaging with basketry, you connect with a skill that honors the material culture of the territory and supports the economic resilience of rural families. It is an essential encounter with the people who define the Coffee Region, offering a window into the identity and continuity of a landscape shaped by work, color, and heritage.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Low to moderate physical demand. The experience involves walking through urban streets with some slopes and cobbled surfaces.
- Accessibility: Streets in Salento and Filandia are often cobbled and steep, which may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.
- Logistics:
- Artisan workshops are local family-run spaces; respect for the quiet rhythm of their work is appreciated.
- Weather in the Andes shifts quickly throughout the day; rain is frequent even in the sunny season.
- Salento and Filandia experience high visitor traffic on weekends and public holidays.
- Packing List:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light layers
- Rain jacket
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing is appropriate for this experience.
Included
- Private Transportation
- Professional Bilingual Guide
- Traditional Lunch
- Hydration
- Basket Weaving Activity
- Coffee Tasting
- Medical Assistance Card
Ritual and Planting the Wax Palm in Cocora Valley
Start Time:
11:00
Duration: 3 hrs.
Walk into the Cocora Valley, home to the tallest wax palms in the world. Connect with Colombia's natural heritage as you learn about its unique flora and fauna, then take part in a hands-on planting ritual that contributes directly to the conservation of the national tree of Colombia.
The day begins with a walk through the cloud forest, where you'll learn about the flora and fauna that call this ecosystem home. The heart of the experience is the wax palm planting ritual — Colombia's national tree. It's more than symbolic: planting a wax palm is a direct contribution to the preservation of the species and the ecosystem it anchors, and you'll receive a certificate recognizing you as a Guardian of Colombia's National Tree.
Afterward, lunch brings a choice of grilled chicken, smoked trout, or a vegetarian plate made with organic vegetables from the garden, served with traditional patacón quindiano and fresh sides. The tour is built to be accessible, so you can take in the valley and the conservation work underway without the day feeling rushed. It's a clear example of what travel can do when the experiences chosen support local communities and the environment directly.
Included
- Bilingual host
- Guided short walking
- Lunch
- Water
- Ritual and certificate
Day 6:
Transfer Out Salento - Flight Ticket - Medellín Airport Transfer In
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Transfer Out Salento
Pick up time: 09:00
Enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free private transfer from your hotel in Salento directly to the airport. Wrap up your stay smoothly and arrive on time after enjoying Colombia’s iconic Coffee Region.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Medellín Airport Transfer In
Pick up time: 13:00
Duration: Flexible
Enjoy a comfortable, stress-free private transfer from José María Córdova Airport to your hotel in Medellín. Meet your professional driver upon arrival and start your stay in the City of Eternal Spring with total ease.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Day 7:
Medellin Grand City Tour: Comuna 13, Botero Square and local Market
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Medellin Grand City Tour: Comuna 13, Botero Square and local Market
Start Time:
08:30
Duration: 8 hrs.
Explore the soul of Medellín through its vibrant markets, provocative public art, and neighborhoods of profound social change. Connect with local memory at historical landmarks and witness the resilient spirit that defines the city's contemporary identity.
Enter the heart of Medellín where daily life and historical memory intertwine at the Placita de Flórez. In this traditional market, the scent of fresh-cut flowers and tropical fruits creates a sensory introduction to the city's rural roots and urban energy. The journey deepens at the Museo Casa de la Memoria, a space dedicated to the dignity of victims and the collective processing of a complex past. This is where the city’s narrative moves beyond headlines, grounding itself in the lived experiences of its people and their commitment to peace.
Navigate the dense streets of the city center toward Parque Berrío and Plaza Botero. Here, the oversized bronze figures of Fernando Botero stand as symbols of Colombian identity and artistic defiance against the backdrop of colonial architecture and modern commerce. The texture of the sculptures, smoothed by the touch of thousands of passersby, reflects the public’s ownership of their cultural heritage. A pause for lunch in the district offers a contemporary taste of regional ingredients, bridging traditional flavors with the city’s evolving culinary identity and urban rhythm.
Ascend into Comuna 13, a territory once defined by its margins and now celebrated for its vibrant social transformation. Through its steep slopes and narrow alleys, the neighborhood reveals its story through intricate murals and the rhythmic energy of local performers. The electric stairways, which rise 384 m (1,260 ft) up the hillside, represent a triumph of urban planning that centers on human dignity and social connection. The day concludes at Parque de la Inflexión, a site of quiet reflection where the city honors its resilience and looks toward a future built on shared hope.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Moderate physical demand. The experience includes sustained walking on flat urban surfaces as well as steep, sloped streets and stairs in hillside neighborhoods.
- Accessibility: Accessibility is limited in certain areas due to steep terrain, stairs, and uneven sidewalks in the city center and Comuna 13.
- Logistics:
- The Museo Casa de la Memoria and some downtown museums commonly close on Mondays or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday.
- The local climate is generally temperate, averaging 24 °C (75 °F), but afternoon rain is frequent.
- Packing List:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (sunscreen and hat)
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Refillable water bottle
- Light layers
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing appropriate for walking in an urban environment.
Included
- Lunch
- Metro Cable ride
- Bilingual local guide
- Tour through Comuna 13
- Visit to the foundation to learn about its lines of action and projects
- Graffiti experience
- Art gallery tour
- Snack
- Snack
- Private vehicle
- Bilingual Guide
Day 8:
Moravia’s blooming with lunch with locals and capoeira experience
Monday, September 28, 2026
Moravia’s blooming with lunch with locals and capoeira experience
Start Time:
09:00
Duration: 8 hrs.
Witness the metamorphosis of Moravia from a city landfill into a thriving garden of community resilience. Walk through vibrant streets, engage with grassroots art, and share a meal that honors the Afro-Pacific heritage within Medellín’s urban core.
Moravia stands as a testament to the stubborn resilience of the human spirit in Medellín. Once the city’s open-air landfill, this hillside neighborhood now breathes through terraced gardens and the collective memory of families who literally built their lives from the ground up. The narrow streets vibrate with the pride of a community that transformed a mountain of waste into a landscape of resistance and creative expression, proving that beauty can emerge from the most neglected soil.
Walk along winding paths where the scent of urban gardens mingles with the rhythm of daily life. At the Moravia Cultural Center, the brick architecture of Rogelio Salmona anchors the neighborhood's artistic pulse, providing a textured space for theater, music, and local gathering. The experience deepens with Mangle, a local collective where the fluid, rhythmic motions of capoeira serve as a tool for social cohesion. The sound of the berimbau echoes through the space as young residents claim their territory through movement, discipline, and ancestral rhythm.
Identity takes center stage during a meal prepared by a social enterprise led by women from Colombia’s Pacific coast. The flavors of coconut, cilantro cimarrón, and fresh seafood provide a sensory bridge between the Afro-Colombian heritage and the Andean slopes of Medellín. Supporting these local entrepreneurs reveals the complex, diverse layers of contemporary Colombia, where food, art, and movement become essential acts of empowerment and community survival.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Moderate physical demand. The experience involves sustained walking through sloped neighborhoods, narrow passages, and urban stairs.
- Accessibility: Accessibility is limited due to the steep inclines, uneven sidewalks, and numerous stairs characteristic of this hillside district.
- Logistics:
- The Moravia Cultural Center schedules may vary according to local community events.
- Medellín's mountain weather is unpredictable; brief rain showers are common in the afternoons.
- Packing List:
- sunscreen
- hat
- comfortable walking shoes
- refillable water bottle
- rain jacket or umbrella
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended for city walking.
Included
- Capoeira class and presentation
- Snack
- Lunch
- Bilingual Guide
- Moravia walking experience with visit to local projects
Day 9:
Medellín Airport Transfer Out - Flight Ticket - Cartagena Airport Transfer In
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Medellín Airport Transfer Out
Pick up time: 09:00
Duration: Flexible
Enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free private transfer from your hotel in Medellín to José María Córdova Airport. Relax as your professional driver takes care of the ride, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival for your flight.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Cartagena Airport Transfer In
Pick up time: 12:00
Duration: Flexible
Enjoy a comfortable, stress-free private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cartagena. Meet your professional driver upon arrival and start exploring the charms of the Caribbean coast with total ease.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Day 10:
San Basilio de Palenque - The corner of Africa in Colombia
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
San Basilio de Palenque - The corner of Africa in Colombia
Start Time:
08:00
Duration: 8 hrs.
Walk through the first free town of the Americas to discover a living legacy of African resistance, where ancestral music, a unique creole language, and traditional flavors preserve a culture recognized by UNESCO as world heritage.
San Basilio de Palenque stands as a profound symbol of liberty in the foothills of the Montes de María. Founded by Benkos Biohó and self-emancipated Africans who defied colonial rule, this community remains a vibrant enclave of resistance and ancestral pride. Here, the memory of the struggle for freedom is not just found in history books but lived through the daily rituals of its people, who guard the only Spanish-based creole language in existence.
Explore the textured streets where the rhythmic pulse of Son Palenquero drums provides a constant soundtrack to village life. The journey leads through the central plaza to encounter the bronze statue of Biohó and the monument to Kid Pambelé, the boxing champion who brought international eyes to this rustic territory. Along the way, the aroma of sancocho and coconut rice fills the air, while local women offer alegrías and cocadas—traditional sweets that carry the culinary wisdom of generations through the streets.
The significance of Palenque transcends its historical status as the first free town in the Americas. Recognized by UNESCO for its intangible cultural heritage, the community represents a contemporary triumph of identity over erasure. Engaging with the Palenquero people reveals a resilient world where music, dance, and speech serve as essential tools for cultural continuity, making this visit a deep immersion into the heart of the African diaspora in Colombia.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Moderate physical demand. The experience involves a walk of approximately 2 km (1.2 mi) through a mix of paved areas near the main plaza and unpaved, rocky streets. High humidity and heat are consistent factors.
- Accessibility: The experience is accessible for those with reduced mobility when using specialized wheelchairs or adaptations, though unpaved side streets may be difficult to navigate after rain.
- Logistics:
- The experience is suitable for children aged 4 and older.
- The region experiences intense tropical heat, often reaching 32 °C (90 °F).
- Unpaved roads may become muddy during the rainy season.
- San Basilio de Palenque is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site; respect for local privacy and traditions is essential.
- Packing List:
- Sunscreen
- Broad-brimmed hat
- Insect repellent
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Refillable water bottle
- Lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing appropriate for high temperatures and rural walking.
Included
- Lunch
- Local Guide
- Tips
- Bilingual Guide
- Private vehicle
Day 11:
Fishing with locals - Cartagena City Tour with San Felipe Castle
Thursday, October 1, 2026
Fishing with locals
Start Time:
08:00
Duration: 4 hrs.
Navigate the tranquil lagoons of La Boquilla alongside Afro-Colombian fishermen to learn ancestral netting and trapping techniques. Discover the rhythmic life of the mangroves and share stories with a community deeply connected to the Caribbean waters.
Just outside the polished walls of Cartagena lies La Boquilla, a coastal village where life follows the rhythm of the tides and the wisdom of Afro-Colombian fishing families. Here, the ancestral connection to the water defines the identity and resilience of the territory. Meet the local fishermen who guard the secrets of the lagoons, offering a grounded and human perspective on the region that stands in vibrant contrast to the city’s colonial center.
Board a traditional wooden canoe and glide into the calm waters of the Cienaga de Juan Polo and Cienaga de la Virgen. The air carries the scent of salt and dense mangroves as you learn to cast a net with a fluid, rhythmic motion or set traps for crawfish in the shadows of the tangled roots. Beneath the surface, the brackish waters house Sea Bass (Robalo), Mojarra, and Shad (Sabalo). Listen to the lived-in stories of the men and women who have navigated these systems for generations, their voices blending with the soft splash of the oars against the current.
The experience transcends a simple catch; it is an immersion into a living heritage that remains essential to the contemporary Colombian coast. After the morning on the water, cool down with a fresh coconut on the beach and see how the day’s harvest remains the backbone of local life. By entering a village home to see how the fish is prepared, you witness the direct link between the ecosystem and the culinary traditions that sustain this community, reinforcing a sense of place that is both rustic and profound.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Low to moderate physical demand. The experience involves boarding and sitting in small canoes and performing repetitive fishing motions. Expect sun exposure and high humidity.
- Accessibility: Accessibility is limited. The tour requires boarding small boats and navigating sandy or uneven surfaces in the fishing village.
- Logistics:
- Morning starts are recommended to avoid the strongest midday sun.
- The lagoons are natural ecosystems; wildlife and fish sightings depend on seasonal conditions.
- La Boquilla is a local community with a different pace and atmosphere than the tourist center of Cartagena.
- Packing List:
- Sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Polarized sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sandals or water shoes
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing that you don't mind getting slightly wet or dirty is recommended.
Included
- Transport
- Native guide (fisherman)
- Fishing day in the Juan Polo lagoon
- Participation in preparing garlic crabs
- Sharing a meal with the fisherman's family at lunch
- Traditional lunch
- Hammock time
- Canoe ride
- Bilingual Guide
Cartagena City Tour with San Felipe Castle
Start Time:
15:00
Duration: 4 hrs.
Walk through the rhythmic streets of Cartagena to uncover colonial history at San Felipe Fortress and the Walled City. Explore vibrant plazas, encounter urban wildlife in Centenario Park, and witness the contemporary spirit of Getsemaní.
Cartagena breathes through its stone walls and the warmth of its people. It is a city of layered memories where Caribbean breezes carry stories of defense, trade, and resilience. The city reveals itself as a living museum, where the architectural evolution of centuries past provides the backdrop for a thriving, modern identity. Every corner of the Historic Center holds a narrative of transformation, from its colonial origins to its present-day status as a cultural epicenter.
Climb the steep, sun-drenched stone of Castillo San Felipe, a colossal military feat overlooking the turquoise bay. Transition into the Walled City, where the air smells of salty sea and roasted coffee. Walk under the yellow arches of the Clock Tower and navigate the cobbled labyrinth of the Historic Center, where the palette shifts from the heavy greys of the fortress to the ochre, cobalt, and terracotta of colonial facades. In Centenario Park, the city slows down; look up to find sloths and marmosets nestled in the dense canopy, a rustic pocket of nature in the urban heart.
The journey concludes in Getsemaní, a neighborhood that pulses with the rhythm of today. Once a site of rebellion, it now serves as a vibrant gallery of street art and local life. Here, the ancestral spirit of the city meets its contemporary expression through music, graffiti, and flowers spilling over balconies. Cartagena is not just a relic of the Spanish Empire; it is a territory where every street corner reveals the ongoing dialogue between historical heritage and the vibrant energy of those who call it home.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Moderate physical demand. The experience involves a walk of approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) including steep uphill sections at the fortress and navigating uneven cobblestones and high curbs in the city center.
- Accessibility: Partial accessibility. While some ramps are present at the fortress, the Historic Center features high curbs and irregular pavements that may require additional assistance for wheelchairs or strollers.
- Logistics:
- The Caribbean sun is intense; hydration is essential throughout the walk.
- High visitor traffic is common around the Clock Tower and major plazas.
- Castillo San Felipe involves walking through narrow tunnels and inclined surfaces.
- Packing List:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hydration
- Light, breathable clothing
- Dress Code: Comfortable casual clothing is appropriate for this experience.
Included
- Entrance to the San Felipe Castle
- Entrance to San Pedro Museum
- Snack
- Bilingual Guide
- Private vehicle
Day 12:
Blue Apple Beach - Tierra Bomba Island Day Trip
Friday, October 2, 2026
Blue Apple Beach - Tierra Bomba Island Day Trip
Start Time:
10:30
Escape the city buzz for a day of coastal refinement on Tierra Bomba Island. Lounge by the pool, swim in turquoise waters, and enjoy a curated lunch where Mediterranean techniques meet vibrant Caribbean ingredients in a rhythmic atmosphere.
Tierra Bomba Island sits just across the bay from Cartagena’s skyline, yet its pace feels worlds apart. Blue Apple Beach captures the spirit of a sustainable, community-focused retreat where local island heritage blends with a contemporary beach club ethos. Here, the focus lies on the interplay between the dry tropical forest and the sea, creating a space that honors the island’s rugged beauty while providing a sophisticated sanctuary from the urban rush.
Sunlight reflects off the clear Caribbean water as the sound of curated beats drifts from the poolside. The air carries the scent of grilled seafood and salt spray. Walk along the textured, sandy paths to find a spot under a palm tree or dive into the water for a kayaking session along the coastline. The lunch experience is a highlight, featuring dishes like fresh ceviche or slow-cooked local meats, highlighting the rich, volcanic soil and sea-bounty of the region.
Beyond the leisure, this experience represents a modern approach to Colombian island tourism—one that prioritizes social responsibility and local employment. It is a space where travelers and locals coexist in a shared rhythm, celebrating the coastal identity through food, music, and a deep respect for the territory. It is an essential slice of the contemporary Cartagena lifestyle, where the raw energy of the island meets refined hospitality.
Important information
- Terrain & Physical Demand: Low physical demand. The experience involves relaxed walking on sandy and paved surfaces within the beach club area.
- Accessibility: Accessibility is limited due to the nature of boat boarding and the sandy terrain of the island.
- Logistics:
- Boat transfers are subject to sea conditions and weather.
- The island is located approximately 5.5 km (3.4 mi) from the mainland.
- Sun exposure is high; shade is available but limited during movement.
- Packing List:
- sunscreen
- hat
- swimsuit
- sandals
- sunglasses
- towel
- light layers
- Dress Code: Beach chic or comfortable casual clothing is appropriate.
Included
- Roundtrip speedboat to Tierra Bomba
- Welcome drink
- Typical snack
- Lunch
- Coffee and tea station| Ice cream
- Free use of facilities
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Day 13:
Cartagena Airport Transfer Out
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Cartagena Airport Transfer Out
Pick up time: 11:00
Duration: Flexible
Enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free private transfer from your hotel in Cartagena to the airport. Say goodbye to the charm of the Caribbean coast with complete peace of mind as your professional driver ensures a timely arrival for your flight.
Included
- Private vehicle for transfer service
Where are you staying
Hotel Coco Bogota
Location:
Bogotá
Room type:
• 1 x Superior Middle Room (3 nights)
Hotel COCO invites you to explore Bogotá like a local from its prime location in Zona G, the city’s vibrant culinary and nightlife hub. Just steps from the prestigious Financial District, the hotel blends stylish comfort with authentic connection. Start your day with a signature in-home breakfast, relax in the cozy fireplace lounge, mingle at the rooftop bar, or work from the lively lobby restaurant everything crafted to help you experience the city's energy, culture, and charm in one unforgettable stay.
Hotel Features
Included:
- Free WiFi
- Parking
- Room service
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Daily housekeeping
- Lift
- Terrace
Note: These are general pictures of the hotel, and often include multiple room types. They don't necessarily correspond to the room type included in this itinerary. To see pictures and details of the room type, we recommend looking for updated information at hotel's website.
Sazagua Hotel Boutique Valle del Cocora
Location:
Salento
Room type:
• 1 x Balcony Suite (2 nights)
Sazagua Hotel Boutique Valle del Cocora is an intimate 10-room eco-boutique retreat set within a private natural reserve near Salento, in Colombia’s Coffee Region. Blending traditional Antioquian architectural elements with a refined rustic aesthetic, the property offers a tranquil, nature-immersed experience surrounded by mountains, forest, and birdlife. Designed for slow travel and disconnection, it combines personalized service, locally inspired gastronomy, and a strong sense of place.
Hotel Features
Included:
- Room service
- Restaurant
- Free Wifi
- Bar
- Hairdryer
Note: These are general pictures of the hotel, and often include multiple room types. They don't necessarily correspond to the room type included in this itinerary. To see pictures and details of the room type, we recommend looking for updated information at hotel's website.
Diez Hotel Medellin
Location:
Medellin
Room type:
• 1 x Deluxe Room (3 nights)
Inspired by Colombian culture, this design hotel offers luxurious rooms. It is located in the commercial centre of Medellín, 1.5 km from Poblado Metro Station. The hotel offers free WiFi, a fitness centre and a spa.
Each floor is inspired by a different region. The rooms at Diez Hotel are decorated with local handcrafts in combination with modern technology. All offer a view of the mountain and city.
Hotel Features
- Wifi
- Exterior window
- Great breakfast
- Private bathroom
- Minibar
- Satellite TV
- Rooftop restaurant and bar
- Spa center
- Rooftop jacuzzis
- Air conditioning
- Hammocks (superior rooms)
- Hotel with regional Colombianart deco in each floor
Note: These are general pictures of the hotel, and often include multiple room types. They don't necessarily correspond to the room type included in this itinerary. To see pictures and details of the room type, we recommend looking for updated information at hotel's website.
Osh Hotel Getsemani
Location:
Cartagena
Room type:
• 1 x Essential King Room (4 nights)
Hotel Osh Getsemani is a trendy 5 star hotel located in the heart of the great Getsemani neighbourhood. With its art deco style and outdoor swimming pool, vertical gardens, rooftop and two restaurants, this new building in Cartagena is here to stay. All rooms come with an air conditioning system, desk and chair, coffee machine, mini bar, safety box, a flat screen tv, and a private bathroom with shower. All days a buffet breakfast is offered to all guests.
Hotel Features
Included:
- Wifi
- Air conditioning
- Safety box
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Rooftop
- Bar and restaurant
- Family Rooms
- Room service
Note: These are general pictures of the hotel, and often include multiple room types. They don't necessarily correspond to the room type included in this itinerary. To see pictures and details of the room type, we recommend looking for updated information at hotel's website.
Price and What's Included
Price per person: (2 pax): USD 4,896.96
Global Price: USD 9,793.92
VAT: USD 0.00
Final Price: USD 9,793.92
Included
- The activities mentioned in the itinerary are private, customizable and guided by experts and professionals.
- Private land transport with verified drivers.
- Tickets & entrances in all the activities that are required.
- Special access to great places and amazing people.
- Meals and drinks mentioned in the itinerary and meal plan.
- 24/7 emergency line during the trip, available both for travelers and partners.
- Flight Tickets.
Important note about domestic flights
Itinerary disruptions in domestic flights in Colombia are frequent. In case the airline notifies us about a change of itinerary, we will act on our traveler's behalf to minimize the impact of this change on their trip. However, in some situations the alternatives offered by airlines might mean changes on the trip's agenda. In such cases, we will work together to make necessary rearrangements to minimize the impact of flight alterations on the trip's agenda and minimize/avoid extra costs.
NOT Included
- Food and drinks that are not detailed on this itinerary.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Possible penalties from the hotels and the airlines for changes after the trip is booked.
- Travel and health insurance.
- VAT for hotels or other government taxes (these are waived for non-colombian travelers by showing your passport with the entrance stamp at hotels when checking in).
- Transaction fees (3-4% depending on your payment method): We accept various payment methods including credit and debit cards, PayPal, We Travel, and Colombian bank transfers.
Booking and Cancellation Policies
Booking and Cancellation Policies
The price quoted on this offer is valid for 10 calendar days after the delivery of the proposal. Some third-party costs and availability may vary after that period of time (specially air and hotels).
To confirm the trip, you must pay a 50% of the total price as a deposit, and 50% balance 30 days before the departure. If your departure is in less than 30 days, you must confirm your trip with 100% upfront payment.
- If the trip is canceled for reasons other than "force majeure", the following cancellation penalties* will apply:
- From 0 to 10 days before the start date of the trip, 100% cancellation penalty.
- From 11 to 21 days before the start date of the trip, 70% cancellation penalty.
- 22 -31 days before the start date of the trip, 50% cancellation penalty.
- +32 days before the start date of the trip, 15% cancellation penalty.
- *Cancellation Penalty: The percentage of the total cost of the trip that Impulse is entitled to charge in case of a cancellation. The remaining percentage will be refundable.
- If the trip is canceled due to force majeure (understood as: strict blockade in Colombia, natural disasters or border closures) 50% of the total cost of the trip will be reimbursed and the remaining 50% will be offered as a credit that can be used on any Impulse trip over the next 12 months, and can be transferred to someone else.
Why Travel with Impulse
Customers Reviews
Malia Asfour, Director at Jordan Tourism Board North America
“All you need is to tell them what you want and they will do their utmost to accommodate your requests and will give you valuable suggestions. [.] Impulse is a company that truly sees how tourism can be a force for good and help you or your clients have incredible immersive Colombian experiences.”
Greg Takehara, CEO at Tourism Cares
“We recently hosted our Meaningful Travel Summit in Medellin Colombia, bringing together 45 travel professionals, staff, and media. [.] To say that Impulse Travel and its fantastic guides curated an incredible experience would be an understatement. Their energy, preparedness, attention to detail, and broad range of deliverables are of the highest level.”
Terry Dale, President and CEO at United States Tour Operators Association
“Impulse was nothing short of spectacular! Their attention to detail and programming was exceptional. They put a very human touch on every element of the experience which was extraordinary. They don't have 'no' in their vocabulary. Their approach is to make things happen in the most efficient and effective way.”
Read these and more of our professional and traveler's reviews here
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