Expeditions Luxury Colombia Escape: Guatape, Medellin & Cartagena

We will pick you up from the airport in Medellin and drive about 2 hours to reach the town of Guatape. With its vibrant colours and proximity to the water, Guatape serves as a popular holiday spot among Colombians. The main plaza features a beautiful traditional church and small shops that sell handicrafts and souvenirs. 

Only a few minutes from the town is El Peñol de Guatape. This 200m-high granite monolith was once worshiped by Indigenous people. Workers installed a staircase along the side of the rock so visitors can climb more than 600 steps to reach the top. The climb is not difficult, but people with bad knees might find it challenging. Once at the top of the rock, you will see the picturesque emerald-green water below.

At the town, you will also participate in an interactive workshop where you can create and paint your own zócalo. This workshop will allow you to express your creativity and take home a unique and personal souvenir from your visit. Led by local artisans, this workshop will give you an interesting perspective into the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional artworks.

We will also take a ride on a boat through the reservoir that sits around Guatape and El Peñol. Your tour guide will teach you more about the importance of this body of water and you will get a chance to see other tourists and locals take part in water sports and activities. A boat ride is a great way to enjoy a new perspective of the area while getting to relax after climbing so many stairs.

Late in the afternoon, we will go the hotel Cannua.

Overnight: Cannua
Meal Plan: -

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

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

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cartagena. Once you arrive, we’ll be there to greet you and start the tour in Cartagena.

During the tour, we’ll explore the Convento de la Popa, the imposing Castillo de San Felipe, and Cartagena’s enchanting old city, still surrounded by the impressive walls built during Spanish rule to protect it from enemies and looters.

Perched high on a hill, the Convento de la Popa offers one of the best panoramic views of Cartagena and its sparkling Caribbean coastline. Originally built in the early 17th century as a humble chapel, it later became a monastery and a symbol of faith for the city. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful courtyard, a richly decorated altar, and the revered statue of La Virgen de la Candelaria, Cartagena’s patron saint, making it both a spiritual and cultural highlight.

The Castillo de San Felipe is the most powerful fortress ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies. Construction began on September 8, 1614, under the orders of King Philip III, following the legendary attack by Sir Francis Drake. Recognised as the best-preserved fortification in South America, it is a World Cultural Heritage Site and a remarkable treasure that has withstood centuries of battles, invasions, and the passage of time.

The old city, with its cobblestone streets and colourful colonial architecture, is the historic heart and soul of Cartagena. As we wander through its lively plazas and charming alleyways, we’ll pass by many of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

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.

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

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

You will have the day free to relax and enjoy the beach.

Overnight: Baru
Meal Plan: Breakfast

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

Overnight: -
Meal Plan: Breakfast