Colombia has a certain kind of magic that you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean. On this trip, you’ll experience it first-hand via visits to rural regions, treks through Tayrona National Park’s picturesque trails and (of course), downtime on the beach. Spend time with village communities to learn about Indigenous traditions before heading deep into the jungle to Teyuna — the fabled Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) older than Machu Picchu — a place crowded with history and free of crowds. Colombia is mysterious. Come figure out the riddle.
Day 1: CartagenaArrive at any time.
Day 2: CartagenaEnjoy a city tour, visiting the colonial walled city and fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time to take in the Caribbean vibe of the city and beach.
Day 3: Cartagena/MincaTravel to the small town of Minca, breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy free time to explore.
Day 4: Minca to Tayrona National Park AreaLeave Minca behind as the group heads into the Tayrona National Park area to spend the day visiting a nearby indigenous community. Gain insights into the rich traditional cultures of this region, and the Arhuacos. Enjoy a textile weaving demonstration by members of local families in the Katanzama community. Afterwards, transfer to your accommodations just outside Tayrona National Park, where you will have free time to enjoy the property and its amenities. Relax in a nearby hammock, find a local restaurant for dinner, and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.
Day 5: Parque Nacional Natural TayronaHead into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike with a local guide. This is a perfect opportunity to experience nature and learn a little more about the rich, natural diversity of northern Colombia. Lunch is included during your hike. Afterwards, the group will travel the short distance to our nearby accommodations and spend free time unwinding after a full day of exploring this stunning national park.
Day 6: Tayrona National Park Area / TagangaIn the afternoon, travel from Tayrona to Taganga. Orientation walk with CEO upon arrival.
Day 7: Taganga/Santa MartaWith a free day at leisure, tour Taganga by foot or don a snorkel and mask and explore the water. This evening, travel to Santa Marta and join your group for an optional evening out on the town.
Day 8: Santa MartaRelax on the beautiful Caribbean coast in Santa Marta or go further afield to explore.
Day 9: Santa Marta/Ricardito CampWake up and hit the road to the village of El Mamey where your trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Enjoy and let it all soak in – this is your opportunity to get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The group will have lunch at the village and hike about 4 hours to the first basecamp.
Day 10: Ricardito Camp/Teyuna Paraiso CampVenture further into the lush jungle en route to Ciudad Perdida. Be prepared – today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep views. Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon for some much needed relaxation by the river.
Day 11: Paraiso Camp to Mumake CampWake up early feeling refreshed, recharged (hopefully!) and start your trek to La Ciudad Perdida. Climb the 1200 ancient steps and explore the different sacred sites of Lost City. Later, continue trekking through the deep jungle today on winding paths through banana trees and cacao plants as you make your way to Mumake Camp. The total hiking time today is 8 hours with about 3 hours to explore the Lost City.
Day 12: Mumake Camp to Las Cascadas CampThe group will have an early departure from Mumake Camp. Hike past the village of El Mamey and arrive to Las Cascadas Camp where you'll have lunch and rest for the remainder of the day.
Day 13: Santa MartaIn the morning, take in your last views of the jungle as you trek back to Machete Pelao. Transfer to Santa Marta where the rest of the day is yours to relax.
Day 14: Santa MartaDepart at any time.
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