From CAD 3,250
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(21 reviews)
Experience Overview
Head into the serene highlands of Colombia's famed coffee region and discover the sweeter, softer side of this misunderstood country. Learn how to roast the perfect blend during a tour of a working coffee plantation, be entranced by the laidback pace of Salento and maybe explore the nightlife of Medellin. Then, trade the country's lush interior for its coastal spoils and wind the adventure up in oh-so-romantic Cartagena – UNESCO World Heritage site with much to explore.
Highlights
- Explore the cobbled alleys of Cartagena – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town that combines Caribbean splendour with irresistible old-world charm.
- Embark on a spectacular guided hike through the Cocora Valley – home to hummingbirds and the world's tallest palm trees.
- Spend a couple of days learning about the world's favourite bean during a stay on a traditional coffee estancia deep in Colombia's coffee country.
- Discover the new face of Medellin – an arts and culture haven that’s bursting with trendy cafes, epic views and the best nightlife in Colombia – salsa anyone?
- Try your hand at tejo, Colombia’s explosive national sport (think bocce with gunpowder!). Join your group on this fun activity in Salento, made better with a free beer in hand.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1923
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Plane,Local bus,Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: GGSS
Starts: Bogota, Colombia
Finishes: Cartagena, Colombia
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (8), Lunch (2), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights),Coffee Estancia (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3250 (CAD 361 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Bogota. Sitting at 2644 m above sea level, Colombia's lofty capital is a charming, yet hectic mix of old and new. With a wealth of cosy cafes, interesting museums and old churches, there’s plenty to do and see here. Your adventure begins with an orientation walk with your leader and group around Candelaria at 1 pm. There will also be a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, why not head out to dinner with your new travel companions and get to know the local cuisine.
Included Activities:
- Bogota - La Candelaria Walking Tour
Optional Activities:
- Bogota - Montserrate cable car (29500 COP)
- Bogota - Gold Museum (5000 COP)
- Bogota - Zipaquira Salt Cathedral + Guatavita sacred Lagoon Day Tour (390000 COP)
- Bogota - Villa de Leyva Magic Town Day tour (380000 COP)
- Bogota - La Chorrera waterfall hike Day tour (270000 COP)
- Bogota - Museo Nacional (10 USD)
- Bogota - Local Graffiti Tour (50000 COP)
- Bogota - Zipaquira Salt Cathedral Tour (270000 COP)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, immerse your senses in the flavours and colours of Colombia on a visit Paloquemao Market – home to Bogota’s biggest selection of exotic fruits, fresh vegetables and food stalls – and maybe indulge in a delicious Arepa (Colombian style tortilla). After, take a short flight and transfer to the village of Salento. When you arrive, stroll through the streets to admire the colours of 'paisa' architecture at its best. For some local food, trout is the way to go here – there are lots of ways to enjoy it, but it's most often served with a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Tonight, try your hand at Colombia's national sport, tejo – a popular pastime in Salento, made even better with a free beer.
Included Activities:
- Salento - Traditional Tejo Game
- Bogota - Visit to Paloquemao market
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by jeep out to the magnificent Cocora Valley – home of the towering wax palm (Colombia's national tree). Spend the morning walking among the region's incredible scenery, maybe hiking up to Acaime Reserve where the hummingbirds feed. The hike to Acaime is quite strenuous, with some steep and slippery sections, so you'll need good walking shoes as well as plenty of water and snacks (a boxed lunch will be provided). If you'd rather take it easy, you can explore the valley as you please, then take a jeep back to town. Later, travel deep into Colombia's coffee region for a two-night stay in a traditional coffee estancia, where you'll have a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about this wonderful bean.
Accommodation:
- Coffee Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)
Thanks to its tropical altitude and fertile volcanic soil, Colombia is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. You’ll get to know this addictive little bean a whole lot better on a guided tour of the coffee plantation and processing centre. Dig into the history of the plant, learning the inside story of the industry that's long buoyed the country's economy. See how the beans are grown, harvested, processed, dried, roasted and ground, then sample firsthand what all the fuss is about. Try different types of coffee grains and get a lesson on preparing different types of coffees – finishing it all off with a steaming cup of freshly brewed joe. After, relax amid the estancia's beautiful surrounds of sloping green hills and valleys.
Included Activities:
- Coffee Hacienda- Coffee plantation tour & tasting
Accommodation:
- Coffee Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave the coffee estancia this morning and take a transfer to the small town of Chinchina, where you’ll board a comfortable public bus for the journey to Medellin. Along the way, learn a little more about the town's interesting history – having spent the 1980’s and 90’s with an international reputation as one of the world's most dangerous cities (due to Pablo Escobar's infamous drug cartel), Medellin has turned itself around to become one of the most exciting cities in South America. And with some of the country's finest museums, parks and architecture, it's easy to see why its popularity is increasing. When you arrive, explore the city on an orientation walk with your leader.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Medellin and its surrounds during a cable car ride up to Santa Elena. Sail up the mountain over brick houses, watching as the corrugated metal roofs give way to vistas of green valleys and forested peaks. Thanks to the elevation, things are usually a little cooler up here. Enjoy an included tour of a flower garden where a local family will showcase the flower displays that are traditional to the region. Back in Medellin, take a barrio transformation tour to see how the city is now more than its dark history. Tonight, you might want to search out one of the city's lively salsa bars (many count Medellin's nightlife as the best in Colombia).
Included Activities:
- Medellin - Barrio Transformation Tour
- Medellin - Flower Garden tour
- Metrocable to Acevedo station and up to Santa Elena
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the Museo de Antioquia to see some of Botero's famous works or get more modern at the beautiful Museo de Arte Moderno. If you’re not sure how to spend your day, your local leader is always on hand with some great tips!
Optional Activities:
- Medellin - Comuna 13 Tour (150000 COP)
- Medellin - Guatape + Penol Rock Day Tour (140000 COP)
- Medellin - Violence + Posconflict Tour (50000 COP)
- Medellin - Museo de Antioquia entrance fee (30000 COP)
- Medellin - Historic Downtown Tour (50000 COP)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Fly to Cartagena – one of South America's most historic cities. When you arrive, you’ll have some free time to explore the Old City. This inner walled town is the main attraction in Cartagena and is packed with beautiful churches, monasteries, plazas and mansions. Its walled fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built to protect both shipping and the slave trade. Maybe visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest of the fortresses, or head out of town for a mud bath at Volcan de Lodo El Totumo. Maybe end this adventure people-watching in the heart of Getsemaní at Plaza de la Trinidad, where kids play football and singers strum their guitars. This evening, maybe head out with your leader and travel mates for an optional dinner in town to celebrate this great adventure in Colombia.
Optional Activities:
- Cartagena - San Felipe de Barajas Castle (33000 COP)
- Cartagena - San Basilio de Palenque Full Day Tour (300000 COP)
- Cartagena - Mangroves Tour (150000 COP)
- Cartagena - Gabriel Garcia Marquez Walking Tour (50000 COP)
- Cartagena - Walking tour Cartagena Walled City (50000 COP)
- Cartagena - Walled city + Getsemani District Tour (50000 COP)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for today and you can depart the accommodation at any time after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Christina - Traveled, March 2024
An excellent and varied itinerary. Our leader Andrea was enthusiastic and very knowledgeable, making the trip very enjoyable. Great food, friendly people and safety was never an issue. It was an amazing trip, and we will return to Colombia in the future. Thanks, Andrea!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Michelle - Traveled, February 2024
Cafe Colombia - if you want to experience the culture, history, art, traditional food, coffee, chocolate, wildlife, hiking, beauty, handicrafts and fun of Colombia - this is the tour for you. I had a blast.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2024
Natalia - Traveled, February 2024
This trip was one of the best trips of my life and one of the best decisions i made. I traveled solo for 1st time so far away but i felt so safe, included and felt in love with Colombia!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2024
Kim - Traveled, February 2024
Good trip for those seeking an introduction to Colombia. Accommodation is comfortable and a good mix of transport. Our guide Manuela was stellar.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2024
Kate - Traveled, February 2024
Great trip exploring some main stops in Colombia, a good intro to the country
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Laurent - Traveled, January 2024
It was my first time in South America and it turned out to be an epiphany for me. I felt safe at all times and, most importantly, like I belonged there. Our lovely tour leader Daniela did an impeccable job accommodating our requests. I will never forget this group and this trip full of highlights like the stunning Cocora valley…
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/14/2024
Domenica - Traveled, January 2024
This is a great itinerary, it has the best of Colombia. If you have the chance stay a couple of days in Cartagena. Andrea is one of the best tour leaders I ever had! Her passion, love, and knowledge of Colombia will make you love this country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/09/2024
Lukas Martin · - Traveled, March 2024
This trip provided a great view into Colombia, especially the coffee region. Andrea, our tour leader, made the trip truely memorable with her enthusiasm and knowledge of her country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Alison - Traveled, March 2024
I can't imagine a better way to visit a new and beautiful country. We had an enthusiastic, efficient leader who was great fun to be with. She and all the local guides we had were invigoratingly knowledgeable - not only about their specialist subjects, but about how the country was developing, about its troubled past and the success of the ongoing peace process. Their pride in and their commitment to their varied and remarkable country was inspirational.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
Fiona - Traveled, December 2023
This was a great introduction to. Colombia. Diana was a great guide and have his lots of info about Colombia in an entertaining way. We always felt very safe. Valle Cocora a highlight Highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/10/2023
Liane - Traveled, November 2023
This tour was good because it went to some key popular areas in Colombia. Transport between cities was well organised and we had a bit of free time to do our own thing which was nice. Accomodation was okay but provided meals didn’t cater to vegan diets (except in the coffee estancia which was great) so be prepared to forage for yourself! We felt safe the whole time. It’s a great trip!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
Judith - Traveled, November 2023
The Columbian Intrepid trip was a real surprise as I felt safe all the time we travelled despite it's reputation years ago. We packed in many adventures including bird watching, hiking, rafting, mud bathing, etc. A great place to visit and superb scenery.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2023
Caroline - Traveled, January 2024
Cafe Colombia is a delightful, inspiring introduction to the country. The tour includes an excellent balance of historical sites, gorgeous natural spots, and light-hearted fun (salsa, Teja, live music). Andrea is a knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and very kind guide. We loved her.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/05/2024
Marilyn - Traveled, January 2024
Terrific opportunity to see an amazing country, while enjoying the benefits of a prearranged inclusive itinerary, and transportation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/02/2024
Debbira - Traveled, January 2024
Give Columbia a big consideration when planning your next trip. I ventured into this country through Intrepid Tours and was totally impressed with the results. The 17 day trip from Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, Tayrona National park and Barichara offered so many different climate and cultural changes. This trip has a lot to offer, with tours of the coffee, cocoa, plant weaving, paper making, bird watching and so much more. Our tour guide, Andres was so helpful, kept us well informed of events and transportation as well as a knowing where to find the good restaurants for authentic Colombian dishes. Loved the hikes and park guides who were so good natured and informative. Would highly recommend taking this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/01/2024
Maria - Traveled, December 2023
A really great way to see Colombia and learn about its rich culture and history. Catalina, our guide, was excellent and I really enjoyed the trip which was really well organised and fun!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/15/2024
Victoria - Traveled, December 2023
Catalina was an Excellent guide very knowledgeable and proud of her country. Attended to everyone’s needs and assisted with safety and arranging extra activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Kajsa - Traveled, December 2023
If you wish, you can use my first comment as a public review: The trip was a pleasure. It was such a joy to experience different sides of Colombia, from big cities to small towns and hikes in untouched nature. It was very interesting to learn of Colombia’s history and great to travel with a very lively and interested group. The guide, Catalina, steered us competently through all aspects of the trip, doing her best to see that our needs were met. She also helped recommend travelers in the group what could be done in the free time and also gave great recommendations for other parts of Colombia worth to visit. Her love for her country and enthusiasm in sharing it with us was really heartwarming.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/17/2024
Vivek - Traveled, December 2023
This is a great itinerary, it has the best of Colombia. Coffee estancia, Valle Cocora and Salento was a highlight. Paola was a great guide, fun travelling companions too and went out of her way to keep the group together. I really enjoyed the trip which was really well organized, just be prepared for few early morning flights and long bus journeys. If you have the chance stay a couple of days in Cartagena after the tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2024
Karin - Traveled, December 2023
The coffee tour was my firs tour with Intrepid and it was simply fantastic. It was as an excellent mix of nature, culture, food and people. Our wonderful tour guide Manuela Cardona always went the extra mlle to satisfy our wishes and make our trip unforgettable. It was my first tour with Intrepid but not my last one!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/01/2024
Sam - Traveled, December 2023
Really good trip with an excelllent guide in Diana. Really recommend staying on in Cartagena and doing a historical tour. More to Cartagena than bars and restaurants!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/21/2023
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