Luxury Colombia Tour: Guatapé, Medellín & Cartagena

Arrive in Medellín in the morning, ideally before 10 am.

We will pick you up at the airport in Medellín and drive about two hours to Guatapé. With its vibrant colours and lakeside setting, Guatapé is a popular holiday spot for Colombians. The main plaza features a beautiful traditional church and small shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.

Just a few minutes from the town is El Peñol de Guatapé. This 200‑metre‑high granite monolith was once worshipped by Indigenous people. A staircase runs up the side of the rock, allowing visitors to climb more than 600 steps to reach the top. The climb is not particularly difficult, though those with knee problems may find it challenging. From the top, you can enjoy picturesque views of the emerald‑green water below.

In the town, you will take part in an interactive workshop where you can create and paint your own zócalo. This hands‑on activity allows you to express your creativity and take home a unique, personal souvenir from your visit. Led by local artisans, the workshop offers an interesting insight into the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional artworks.

We will also enjoy a boat ride on the reservoir surrounding Guatapé and El Peñol. Your tour guide will explain the importance of this body of water, and you will have the chance to see tourists and locals enjoying water sports and other activities. The boat ride is a wonderful way to see the area from a different perspective while relaxing after climbing so many steps.

Late in the afternoon, we will head to the hotel Cannúa.

Overnight: Cannua Meal Plan: Lunch

Included activities:   Guatapé Tour including El Peñol, Zócalo Workshop and Boat Ride around the Reservoir

In the morning, we begin in Comuna 13, once one of Medellín’s most challenging neighbourhoods and today a vibrant symbol of transformation. As we explore its colourful streets, you’ll ride the outdoor escalators built into the hillside and discover striking urban murals that tell stories of resilience, memory and hope, offering meaningful insight into the community’s revival.

From there, we make our way to the Metrocable and ascend towards Parque Arví. As the cable car rises above the city, the urban landscape gradually gives way to lush green mountains, revealing sweeping views over the valley. This scenic journey is an experience in itself and reflects Medellín’s innovative approach to connectivity and inclusion.

Upon arrival at Parque Arví, we enjoy a gentle walk through this protected nature reserve, breathing in the fresh mountain air and discovering a peaceful side of the region. Afterwards, we continue to a traditional flower farm in the surrounding countryside, where you’ll learn about the cultivation process behind Medellín’s world-renowned flower festival, from planting the seeds to preparing the intricate arrangements showcased each year. At the end of the experience, we return you to your hotel, leaving the remainder of the day free to explore at your own pace.

Overnight: Cannua Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Tour to Comuna 13, Arvi Park and Flowers Farm in Santa Elena

Your guide will collect you from the lodge for a visit to El Carmen de Víboral, an iconic Antioquia town celebrated across Colombia for its centuries-old tradition of handcrafted ceramics, passed down through generations. You will tour a family-run workshop, discover the story behind this living art form, and create your own hand-painted piece to take home as a keepsake. The excursion includes free time to enjoy lunch in the village before returning to the lodge.

Back at Cannúa, the rest of the afternoon is yours to savour independently, whether you choose to enjoy a coffee or cocktail with sweeping panoramic views, wander the nature trails, or simply unwind in the Andean air. Should you wish to end the day with dinner, the lodge's gourmet restaurant awaits: each day our chefs forage the grounds for wild plants and coax from them extraordinary flavours, crafting a thoughtful, health-conscious menu of petals, seeds, textures and juices, dishes as colourful as they are surprising.

Overnight: Cannua Meal Plan: Breakfast

Included activities:   Hands-On Artisan Ceramics Workshop

At the scheduled time, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Cartagena. Once you arrive, you will be transferred to the hotel in Cartagena

Overnight: Cartagena Meal Plan: Breakfast

Your day begins with a hands‑on cooking experience that introduces you to the bold flavours of Cartagena’s Caribbean cuisine. Guided by a local chef, you’ll prepare Ceviche Cartagenero using fresh fish, citrus, herbs, and regional spices. You’ll also craft a classic mojito, alcoholic or alcohol‑free, perfectly tailored to your taste. After enjoying the dishes you’ve created, your cultural exploration of the city begins.

In the afternoon, continue with a guided tour of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks. Start at the imposing Castillo San Felipe, the largest fortress the Spanish built in the Americas, and learn how it protected the city from pirates and foreign invaders. Then head to the Walled City, Cartagena’s historic heart, where cobblestone streets, colourful façades, and colonial architecture reveal centuries of history. As you wander through its charming plazas and hidden corners, your guide will share the stories that shaped this Caribbean jewel.

Your day concludes with a private rum tasting, where you’ll sample a curated selection of premium Colombian rums. Expert hosts will walk you through their aromas, flavours, and the rich heritage behind one of Colombia’s most celebrated spirits.

Overnight: Cartagena Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Cartagena Tour, Caribbean Cooking Class and Rum Tasting

Today you will be transferred to Barú by boat, gliding across the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Feel the sea breeze as you admire the stunning coastline and sparkling turquoise waves along the way. The total journey will take around 45 minutes.

Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take in the tranquil surroundings of this beautiful Colombian destination. Spend the evening unwinding by the beach and enjoying the sunset.

Overnight: Baru Meal Plan: Breakfast

Enjoy a full free day at your hotel in Barú, one of the most breathtaking coastal escapes on any Cartagena de Indias trip. Sink your toes into white sand, swim in warm Caribbean waters, and let the rhythm of the coast set the pace. 

The hotel offers the following experiences for an additional fee. They can be booked and paid directly at the hotel, either at check‑in or during your stay (subject to availability and weather conditions):

• Astronomy Excursion (Astrotour): Gaze at the Caribbean night sky in one of Colombia’s darkest and most unspoilt settings.
• Isleta Transfer: A short boat ride to a nearby islet, perfect for finding a quiet corner of paradise.
• Snorkel Kit, Kayaks & Paddleboards: Available directly on the beach, ideal for discovering coral reefs and turquoise shallows at your own pace.

Overnight: Baru Meal Plan: Breakfast

The tour ends today. At the time requested, we will transfer you to the airport.

Overnight: - Meal Plan: Breakfast

Colombia is a year‑round destination thanks to its varied geography and stable climate, with no traditional summer or winter seasons. The driest and most pleasant months generally run from December to March, making this period ideal for exploring cities, beaches and the Andes. However, each region has its own weather patterns, so the best time to visit ultimately depends on your availability and the places you wish to explore.

The itinerary can be adapted for families, depending on the children's ages and interests. When planning your trip, your travel expert can suggest suitable activities, accommodation and pacing for your family.

There is a moderate amount of walking during city tours and some experiences. Certain activities, such as exploring Comuna 13, walking around historic centres or visiting Guatapé, may involve hills, stairs or uneven surfaces. We can discuss your preferred activity level when tailoring the itinerary.We can adapt the tour to different mobility levels and preferred travel pace. Please let us know any mobility requirement s when planning your trip so we can adjust the itinerary wherever possible.

Yes. We can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most other dietary requirements. Please inform us in advance so we can prepare accordingly.

You’ll stay in luxury hotels that offer exceptional comfort, excellent locations and a touch of local character and nature. If required, we can adjust the hotels to suit your preferences.

Yes. All experiences, transfers, and guided visits are fully private, allowing you to travel at your own pace.

Absolutely. This is a tailor-made tour, and we can adjust activities, accommodation, and dietary needs to suit your preferences.

Pack light, comfortable clothing and layers suitable for Colombia’s different climates. Medellín has a mild climate and Cartagena is hot and humid, so lightweight clothing combined with a light jacket or sweater is useful. Sun protection is essential.

All day tours and transfers included in the itinerary are insured, providing added security and peace of mind during scheduled activities. For complete protection, we strongly recommend arranging suitable international travel insurance for the full duration of your trip.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers.

Before your trip begins, we create a dedicated chat group with our operations team so you can easily reach us before, during, and after your journey. Once in Colombia, our team is available daily to assist with anything you may need. You will also be accompanied by a bilingual local guide who provides cultural insight and on-the-ground support. 

We take special care of our guests, so you always feel supported, safe, and fully immersed in the local experience.

Once you contact us, we can discuss your travel dates, interests and requirements and make any necessary changes to the itinerary. We then prepare your personalised trip details and pricing. Once you are happy with the arrangements, you can confirm your trip with the required deposit.

Colombia has changed significantly over the past decades, and many destinations are now well established for international tourism. As with any destination, travellers should take sensible precautions and follow local advice. Travelling with local guides and pre-arranged private transportation can also make your journey easier and more comfortable.