This Colombia multisport trip begins in Bogota where you hit the trails, both on foot and mountain bike, in the Santander region. Raft Colombia's best one-day river, the Chicamocha Gorge, and enjoy the turquoise water and lush rainforest of Colombia's Caribbean coast. This Colombia trip provides a good view of Colombia's history, culture, and diverse landscape for travelers wanting to stay active on their Colombia vacation.
Highlights
Hike along the river, Las Cárcavas & Ráquira
Bike through most iconic sites of Bogota
Experience whitewater adventure on Rio Fonce
Explore the Lost Stone City of the Tayrona, an advanced civilization
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
Arrive in Bogota and meet your guide at the airport. You will be transferred into the city to settle in for the evening. The evening is free to explore the city or rest up from your day of traveling.
Day 2: Bogota City Bike Tour | Explore Villa de Leyva
Explore Bogota, a vibrant city bursting with colors, contrasts, and history. During this private bike tour, a local English-speaking guide will lead you to the city's most iconic sites. Gain a deep cultural understanding of Colombia's capital while exploring the urban art scene. Covering 11 kilometers, this tour takes you through over 10 neighborhoods in downtown Bogota. Activities may include visiting a coffee factory, tasting exotic fruits, and playing the traditional Colombian game of 'Tejo'. Learn about the city's history and demographics, with the route and activities tailored to your interests, weather conditions, traffic, and availability. The guide will provide all necessary bicycling equipment, including a helmet. Be ready to recharge with an authentic Colombian lunch or snack along the way, so bring some pesos. (This service is conducted on a private basis.)
Founded in 1572 and named after Andres Díaz Venero de Leyva, Villa De Leyva is a prime example of a colonial town in Colombia. Located 110 miles (175 kilometers) northeast of Bogota, it is easily accessible by bus or private car via the well-paved road to Tunja. Upon arrival, you'll see whitewashed buildings with bottle-green trim. The large, cobblestone main square features a central fountain, and the cathedral is one of the simplest in Colombia. Key attractions include the Iglesia Parroquial, Casa Cabildo, museums, and Convento de Carmen. A bilingual host will lead a one-hour educational walking tour, focusing on the town's history and significance. Minimal optional museum entrance fees are not included. (This service is conducted on a private basis.)
Follow the river, passing by pristine waterfalls and ponds, and discover the hidden village of ‘Antiguo Camino a Chiquiza, where you can meet local farmers tending to their family orchards. Explore the striking eroded desert landscape of Las Cárcavas, nestled in the mountains, and take in the stunning views of Villa de Leyva.
After time for an independent lunch, you will be taken to the colorful artisan capital of Colombia, Raquira to explore the artisan gifts and workshops. Here you can opt to join a ceramics workshop in a typical Raquira workshop, or if you would like a more adventurous activity planned for this afternoon, let your trip planner know so they can organize an alternative activity, such as a horseback riding adventure to a different area.
Your transfer will take you from Hotel Casa Terra to Casa Barichara Boutique. Spend the afternoon on a whitewater rafting adventure navigating through the class 3 rapids on Rio Fonce. This activity typically lasts about two hours and is a great adventure for beginners and seasoned rafters alike.
Day 5: Hike the Royal Trail to Guane and Barichara Walking Tour
The historic colonization route brings you to the charming colonial village of Guane. Embark on a morning hike down a 9 km trail to reach this enchanting village, where time appears to have stood still for centuries. Upon arrival, visit the archaeological and paleontological museum, and consider dining at a local restaurant.
During the afternoon walking tour, explore the workshops of renowned artisans, including stonemasons and vegetable fiber craftsmen. Discover factories that produce high-quality hand-rolled cigars. The churches of The Immaculate Conception in the main square, The Santa Barbara Chapel to the north, and the cemetery, all carved from local stone, are noteworthy stops.
Don't miss the viewpoint of the Suarez Canyon; admire the sunset from this picturesque spot before heading back to the hotel.
*The start and finish times are approximate. Additionally, you have the option to join a private earth painting or paper-making workshop. (This service is provided on a private basis.)
Day 6: Rapelling and Ziplining at Juan Curi Waterfall
An exciting adventure awaits you today, starting with an early departure from your accommodation in Barichara to visit Juan Curi Waterfall, which is an impressive 50 meters (160 feet) tall. Enjoy the spray at the base of the falls and have a morning filled with adventure, including hiking, rappelling down the waterfall, and zip-lining.
After your adventurous day, you will be transferred to your comfortable hotel in Giron.
The transfer from the hotel in Giron to Bucaramanga Airport will take 20 to 30 minutes and the transfer from Santa Marta Airport to Hotel in Tayrona will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Check into your eco-lodge and settle into your stunning surroundings for the next couple of days. The lodging here in Tayrona is beautiful eco cabins surrounded by exuberant vegetation, with a large wooden deck where you can enjoy one of the most privileged views in the area of virgin nature of the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Piedras River, and the Caribbean Sea, located just 5 minutes away from Tayrona Park. This is an ideal setting to watch the sunset while sipping a nice drink prepared by an experienced barman. Guests are also welcome to take a short stroll to the Sierra Bar which overlooks the river meadow on one end and the surfers riding the waves on the other.
Tayrona Park holds significant biological and archaeological value. Its stunning beaches and jungle landscapes beckon visitors to explore the tranquility of nature and ecotourism offered in this paradise. The park comprises several distinct sectors, each with its own unique charm. Arrecifes - Cabo San Juan: This sector takes us through the dry tropical forest, showcasing diverse landscapes and featuring beaches such as Arrecife, Arenilla, the pool, and Cabo San Juan, where you can bask in the beauty of the crystalline waters.
The recommended departure time is between 07:00 and 08:00 am. Trek approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to Cabo San Juan Beach, totaling about 5 hours. Relax and enjoy the beaches and return to the starting point for the travel back to the hotel.
It is recommended to carry extra water and snacks as prices inside the park are high. Pack essentials for the 2-3 hour hike to El Cabo beach.
Explore the charming mountain village of Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and enjoy its breathtaking landscapes, ideal for hiking and birdwatching. Spend the morning learning about cacao and coffee at 'Finca La Candelaria.' You can even make and taste chocolate bars and get a chocolate facial. You can also hike from Minca to the farm, which takes about 2 hours each way.
'Finca La Candelaria' gives you a real learning experience about coffee and cocoa plantations. You can do exciting activities while learning how to take care of the environment. The farm grows coffee and cocoa in a way that's good for nature.
After the Cacao & Coffee Tour, visit the Amazilia Reserve, a private area where you can swim in a natural pool and enjoy a beautiful waterfall. A specialized chef will serve grilled delicacies from local recipes for you to try.
The transfer from the hotel in Tayrona to the Hotel in Cartagena will take 4 hours and 50 minutes.
Cartagena designated a UNESCO Heritage site in 1984, stands out as one of Latin America's most celebrated cities for its vibrant diversity and well-preserved architecture. Embark on the Cartagena city walking tour through the picturesque old town led by knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Discover all the key landmarks while delving into the city's rich history and contemporary life. Your guide will delve into the city's architecture, art, music, cuisine, and culture.
The tour includes various street food tastings—so arrive with an appetite!
*Start and finish times are subject to change.
Day 11: Visit San Basilio de Palenque & San Felipe Castle
After your breakfast, head to Palenque de San Basilio, which is located about 60 km from Cartagena. The tour will begin with a historical overview of the most significant points of the intangible oral heritage of humanity, among a population of African descent. Visit the monument of Benkos Biohos, the leader and founder of Palenque, and the home of Kombilesa Mi, a musical group dedicated to preserving and strengthening Palenquera music and its autonomous instruments. Learn about the house of ancestral and communal justice, which has been a means of resolving local issues within the Palenquera community for decades, under the guidance of traditional leaders.
Finally, be treated to a traditional lunch that will introduce you to local flavors before returning to Cartagena. If time and energy permit, you will be taken to San Felipe Castle to explore the grounds.
*Pick up/drop off times may vary.
Day 12: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Bid farewell to the hotel staff and transfer to the Cartagena airport for your return flight.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for Mar 27, 2025 not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for Mar 27, 2025 are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$6,619
Notes
$6,619 Single Supplement Additional Cost for Private Room when traveling with others. Traveling Solo? Contact us for a custom quote.
Initial deposit is $400, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
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