About Trip

Picture this: stunning hidden beaches, colourful cobblestoned cities, lush jungles, and a hybrid of old and new culture all in one incredible 12-day group trip! Immerse yourself in Medellin’s notorious history, wander through streets laced with colourful art and travel the famous escalators into Communa 13. Take in Colombia’s natural beauty from the top of El Penol Rock, get your coffee fix at a local coffee farm while learning about the coffee industry. Swap the city life and head deep into the jungle in search of Marinka waterfall, surrounded by unique wildlife and immense mountains! Make a splash island hopping and riding the waves of the Caribbean - a water babies’ paradise. Cap off your adventure taking in the colonial architecture of Cartagena Old Town over a sunset cocktail.

Tour Rating

Here at Tru our 'People and Planet Promise' is crucial to designing and running every tour. We also want to be transparent about what we are doing to give back to the local communities and the planet too! Check out the measurements of sustainability below to find out more about how we are giving back.

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Ripple Score
91.87
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This score indicates how much of the money spent on our tours stays within the local economy and is marked out 100. Read More
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Trees Planted
9
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This refers to the amount of trees planted per tour bought. For every £1000 spent we plant 15 trees! Read More
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Carbon Offset
0.18 Tons
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This is how many tons of carbon we offset from all the travel, accommodation and activities that every single customer uses when they join one of our amazing trips. Read More
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Tour Impact
74.6
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We’ve scored each tour and supplier in our network on business practise, green efficiency, carbon footprint and plastic use. The higher the score, the more this tour and the suppliers we use have a positive impact on the environment and the local people. Read More

Travel Style

classic

When we say classic, we mean the perfect balance of culture, adventure, beaches and parties. High number of inclusions, low cost. Tru-ly authentic experiences from home-stays & hostels to beach huts, hotels and boats. A classic tour means maximum adventure, minimum hassle. Built for backpackers by backpackers.

What's Included

  • Activities
  • Airport Pickup
  • Travel Ninja
  • Transport
  • Accommodation
  • Meals

Activities All Activities Included!
Medellin City Tour
Communa 13 Street Art
Cartagena Old Town
El Peñol Rock Climb
Flight to Santa Marta
Guatapé & Local Coffee Farm
Minca Jungle, Marinka Waterfalls & Viewpoints
Sierra Minca
Transfer to Rio Hostel Buritaca
River Tubing
Tierra Bomba Island Getaway
Transfer to Private Island
Island Hopping Adventure
Medellin City Tour Communa 13 Street Art Cartagena Old Town El Peñol Rock Climb Flight to Santa Marta Guatapé & Local Coffee Farm Minca Jungle, Marinka Waterfalls & Viewpoints Sierra Minca Transfer to Rio Hostel Buritaca River Tubing Tierra Bomba Island Getaway Transfer to Private Island Island Hopping Adventure

Airport Pickup
If you are arriving less than 48 hours before the start of the tour and booked the pre-nights directly with TruTravels at the start hotel, you will get a free airport pickup.
If you are arriving the day of the tour you will also be eligible for an airport pick up.
If you are arriving less than 48 hours before the start of the tour and booked the pre-nights directly with TruTravels at the start hotel, you will get a free airport pickup. If you are arriving the day of the tour you will also be eligible for an airport pick up.

Travel Ninja
Your Guide! Like travelling with your best mates and one of them happens to know where they're going!
Your Guide! Like travelling with your best mates and one of them happens to know where they're going!

Transport
All Transport Included
Flight to SANTA MARTA
Private Van Transfer
Speedboat Transfer
All Transport Included Flight to SANTA MARTA Private Van Transfer Speedboat Transfer

Accommodation
11 Nights Accommodation
Twin Room and hostel dorms
11 Nights Accommodation Twin Room and hostel dorms

Meals
5 X Breakfast
2 X Lunch
5 X Breakfast 2 X Lunch

Your Trip Planner

Colombia Uncovered
12 Days

U$2,345

Location Route Iconmedellín - cartagena

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Start
green location pin icon medellín
End
red flag destination iconcartagena
Number of travellers
outline of two people
Total Price:
U$
letter i in a circleThe deposit price is U$280

Map

Bucket List

Communa 13 Street Art
Island Getaway
El Peñol Rock
Medellin City Tour
Sierra Minca excursion
Tru
Flexibility
Low Deposit
Stupidly low deposits so you won't have to raid the piggy bank to lock in your trip.
Free date change
If your plans change, no stress. We allow one free date change up to 60 days before you travel.
Payment Plans
Have something to look forward to & pay us when you can.
Unrivalled Support
The best 1 on 1 support before, during and after your trip.

Itinerary

Day 1

airport pick up

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Exclusives

¡Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia! You’ve made it! Arrive any time at Jose Maria Córdova International Airport where we’ll pick you up. We already know you’re a legend because you’re joining a TruTravels tour so high fives at the ready! We'll pick you up from the airport and take you to our hotel in Medellin. Chill out, relax, chillax before we meet up later for a bite to eat and some welcome drinks! Limonada de cocos all round!

Enjoy reading our Colombia Travel Guide to help you prepare for your Colombia travels.

Medellin
Airport Pick Up
Day 2

medellin history & city tour

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Exclusives

It’s our second day and we’re throwing ourselves straight into Colombian culture as we explore Medellin! What better way to see the city than a city tour! Obviously. Medellin has transformed dramatically over the recent years to become one of the most popular cities to visit in South America! Go, Medellin! We’re heading over to the once-notorious Comuna 13, once known for being one of the most dangerous communities in the world, It has been completely transformed with famous street art paving the way for tourism today. Medellin’s rich city heritage can still be felt here but the lively neighbourhood and vibrant streets make it what it is today. Could we really walk past giant murals and not get a snap for the gram? Absolutely not! It’s a spectacle you’re gonna wanna remember! After an epic day, it’s time to grab dinner and drinks! Hey, we’ve done a lot of walking today so a beer or 6 are well deserved!

 

Medellin
Medellin City Tour, Communa 13
1 X Breakfast
Day 3

guatapé & coffee farm

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Exclusives

Wake up and grab a world-famous Colombian coffee, you’re going to need it! We’re starting the day by climbing 650 stairs up to El Peñol Rock. We know what you’re thinking ‘That’s your exercise done for the month’. But the view from the top is next level, it’s unbelievable (that’s if you make it of course) but it’s one not to be missed! Afterwards, we head to Guatape, Colombia’s most colourful town and an Instagram hotspot for all of you who love a pic for the gram. Next, we head to a local coffee farm. The coffee industry is vital to the local community and it’s the country’s biggest export! Yes, it’s coffee..So get stuck in, learn about how they’re made, even try a cuppa or 2. It’s a brew-tiful day!

Medellin
Climb El Penol Rock, Visit Guatapé, Local Coffee Farm
1 X Breakfast, 1 X Lunch
Day 4

fly to santa marta

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Exclusives

Alexa play WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE. Today we’re swapping city life for the jungle! We catch a midday flight to Santa Marta where we’ll be for the next couple of nights! We stay at a funky quirky hostel, so spend some time chilling by the pool, challenge your fellow TruTraveller to a competitive game of snooker (loser buys the find round of course) or just take in the 10/10 good vibes. Santa Marta is a big backpacker area so the atmosphere is pretty lively! You know what that means.. We’re going out!

Santa Marta
Flight & Transfers
1 X Breakfast
Day 5

minca jungle & waterfalls

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Breathtaking views? Stunning scenery? Oh, go on then! Today we jump aboard Jeeps for the day and head deep into the Colombian Jungle to Minca. Wildlife, waterfalls and one hell of an experience! Minca is a nature lover's paradise, we really do take you off the beaten track and show you the hidden gems Colombia has to offer here. Spend the day bathing in Minca’s waterfall, grab your camera’s and get some shots of the local wildlife that are living harmoniously here or hang off the jeep, wild Thornberry style. It’s a beauty here alright! Next up, we head towards the mountains where we spend the afternoon relaxing in giant hammocks at Sierra Minca. Sit back, watch the world go by as you look out into some of the best views of Colombia.. Treat yourself to a cocktail or 2 if you fancy it!

Santa Marta
Marinka Waterall & Sierra Minca
1 X Lunch
Day 6

rio buritaca

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We’ve hit up the city and driven through the jungle in jeeps. Next stop is our Jungle River spot! From now on, call us Mr Worldwide. We’re doing it all! We are heading to the refreshing waters of Rio Buritaca. Sip on a cocktail or two at the river bar, play a game of beach volleyball with the TruCrew and make the most of the hostel’s facilities before we freshen up. Tonight, it’s beers and bonfires! We can’t promise someone won’t bring out a drunken guitar singalong, but hey you’re on holiday. Try and join in…

Buritaca
Transfer
Day 7

river tubing baby!

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Exclusives

You've heard of hair of the dog right? It's only the best way to cure a hangover! Ok, maybe some people don't agree with that but today we’re grabbing the coolers and hitting the river!! Get your swimming costumes at the ready and grab a rubber ring and LET'S GO TruFam! Today we’re going tubing down the river, beer in hand, until we reach the beach, where the river ends. It's not a strenuous activity... so it's perfect to ease the hangover. It’s a hard life aye! So sit back, relax and watch the Colombian jungle pass you by while you do this must-do in Colombia! We end up on the beach just in time to watch sunset and enjoy some time on the beach during golden hour. Ultimate beach babe vibes.

Buritaca
River Tubing
Day 8

travel to tierra bomba

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It’s an early start today so enjoy a spot of breakfast before we head to Tierra Bomba Island! We spend most of the day on the road, so don’t forget to download that R’n’B 90’s playlist you love so bad or make sure Friends is downloaded on Netflix to watch offline. Don’t do technology? Us either..(We’re just trying to stay down with the kids) Spend the day staring out at the spectacular views Colombia has to offer! Once we arrive to Isla Tierra Bomba, an island just 10 minutes away from Cartagena! Spend the next couples of nights on a unique hostel set deep in the mangroves overlooking the Caribbean sea with a back drop of the beautiful Cartagena city. Sit back, relax and take in your surroundings, you really are in paradise.

Santuario Beach Hostel
Boat transfer
Day 9

island hopping adventure

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What is a TruTravels trip without a island hopping adventure? Today we’re heading off the beaten path on our very own private boat for a Caribbean boat tour extravaganza! Jump in, dive in maybe do a backflip! (Just kidding, we're responsible adults here) Take in the crystal clear waters, the marine life as we jump in to snorkel and swim. The waters warm, the sun is shining, nothing but good vibes and good company. We know, we’re cute. This is a secret paradise in Colombia. But lucky for you.. We’re in the know ;) Picture perfect.

Tierra Bomba
Snorkeling Adventure
Day 10

cartagena old town

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Exclusives

We are headed to the highlight of the trip. Cartagena! After returning from the well deserved relaxing island vibes we will explore the walled city of Cartagena in our orientation walk. We will see the colourful streets of Getsemaní, enjoy the street performers and wrap up the day in the Old Town city walls for drinks as we watch the sun go down. Will it be worth the wait? It’s SUN-believable ;)

Cartagena
Cartagena Old Town Orientation Walk
Day 11

cartagena exploring and chiva party bus!

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It’s our last full day together so take a few hours off to chill out. Recharge those batteries and freshen up before we head out OUT for our last night on the town together as TruFam on the Chiva party bus! We head into Old Town Cartagena, It’s full of rich history and culture, vibrant street life and 10/10 delicious food. Watch the sun go down, cocktail in hand and take in the surrounding you’re in. Could you get any better last night? Someone get the Guaro! *That’s a famous Colombia alcoholic shot, by the way* Guaro! Guaro! Guaro!

Cartagena
Transfer To Cartagena and Chiva Party Bus
Day 12

chilled checkout

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Exclusives
A group photo drinking cocktails at the pool in Pai Northern Thailand

Today is the end of our trip and it’s been a WILD one TruFam! Your Travel Ninja is on hand to help with any onward travel plans you may have. Hey if you’re so sad you just need a hug, they’re there for that too. We don't do goodbye’s very well so let's just say see you later, In a while crocodile. Hasta luego! Time really does fly when you’re having fun. We’re sad to see you go, but that just means you’ll have to come back again soon! 

help with onward travel
Cartagena

WHERE WE STAY

medellin

Conveniently located in the exclusive area El Poblado in Medellin, our chill hostel offers well-equipped rooms with Wi-Fi. Just a short distance from some of Medellin's top attractions like Santa Fe Zoo Park and San Ignacio's Square, you can go exploring when you first arrive or take advantage of the many areas of the hostel to relax after your long journey to Colombia where you can chill in the garden and get ready to enjoy Medellin.

(Accommodation is subject to change dependant on season but will be of a similar standard)

santa marta

Santa Marta is stop number 2 on our epic Colombia Uncovered tour! Our hostel in Santa Marta has an amazing outdoor swimming pool, cozy chilling spots and it's super close to the fun of downtown Santa Marta... so grab a beer and enjoy the good vibes. This terrace is the perfect spot to chill out with your new besties.

 

(Accommodation is subject to change dependant on season but will be of a similar standard)

buritaca

Next stop is jungle paradise. We can't wait to get our tan on as we sunbath alongside a fresh river and our hostel in Buritaca, is the perfect place for that! It is surrounded by palm trees, has plenty of hammocks for maxin' relaxin' and outdoor shaded areas (for those who have already had a bit too much of the fierce Colombian sun). There is free WiFi in public areas and a bar with an amazing cocktail menu so you can enjoy a bev or two from the comfort of your hammock.

The rooms are comfortable, spacious and have a fan and private bathroom.

(Accommodation is subject to change dependant on season but will be of a similar standard)

cartagena

Our hotel in Cartagena is perfectly located! It's right in the middle of the historical centre of Cartagena so it's close to Cartagena Harbour and La Popa hill, which has panoramic views of the whole city and is also just an 8-minute walk from the beach!

The hotel has a roof-top terrace where all our TruTravellers can chill on the sun loungers and enjoy views of the city. Each room has air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi AND in the morning the hotel serves a delicioussss American breakfast.

(Accommodation is subject to change dependant on season but will be of a similar standard)

tierra bomba

We spend the next few nights on Tierra Bomba Island along Colombia's beautiful Caribbean Sea, which is set deep in the mangrove forests. This super chilled spot has one hostel where you can chill (or even sleep) in a hammock with views of the nearby islands and where you can wake up in the morning and jump straight into the sea!

Surrounded by crystal blue water, with lots of amazing sunsets, island parties and insane Caribbean meals, made by local islanders - this is a backpackers heaven.

(Accommodation is subject to change dependant on season but will be of a similar standard)

 

Reviews

Incredible trip to Colombia
Colombia was amazing! We had the best time here, and it has something for everyone. From the jungle, to beaches, to cities, absolutely incredible country! Our tour guide was amazing and looked after us so well. She was so knowledgeable of the area and very professional, but also loads of fun! You really won’t regret joining this tour
Niamh Flynn - Jun 2023

FAQs

Where does the trip start & finish?

The trip starts in Medellin and finishes in Cartagena.

Which airport do I need to fly into?

You will need to fly into Jose Maria Córdova International Airport, airport code MDE.

What is the closest airport to the end destination?

Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG.)

How do I get back to the start destination and is this included in the price?

You can fly from Cartagena back to Medellin. However, Cartagena's main airport is international - Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG)

What kind of accommodation is included on this trip?

The accommodation is a mixture of dormitories & twin beds. 6 nights of the tour will be spent in dorm accommodation.

How much is a pre-night accommodation?

If you would like to book a pre-night please contact our sales team on info@trutravels.com

What is the currency?

The currency used in Colombia is Colombian Peso.

What visa do I need for Colombia?

You do not need a visa to enter Colombia for the duration of this trip. You are given permission to stay for 3 months upon arrival.

Is my money protected?

Yep! You will never lose your money. You’re protected. TruTravels is both ABTA and ATOL registered meaning your money is safe. We also offer 1 free date change before 60 days of your departure date.

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