A Colombian Glimpse: Medellin and Cartagena 5-Day Tour
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5d
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About this experience
If you are short on time or if you wish to make a brief stop in Colombia, this tour will take you to two of the country's essential destinations. You will start in Medellin. You will spend one day discovering Comuna 13 and Medellin’s downtown. On the second day you will explore its surroundings by going to Guatape and its breathtaking Rock of El Peñol. You will fly to Cartagena on the third day to enjoy the two other days in the Caribbean coast. You will have one day to wander around the walled city and its colorful spots and on the last day you will relax in a small island near the city. Food, history, and lots of fun by the hand of our welcoming locals.
• Getting to know two of the must-visit places in Colombia: Bogota and Cartagena.
• Combining city and nature by visiting the cities downtowns on one day and the top-notch natural destinations on the other.
• Diving into Colombian culture through its typical food, music and landscapes.
Available options
5-star Hotel
5-star Hotel<br/>Pickup included
3-star Hotel
3-star Hotel<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Travel insurance
Domestic flights and ground transportation (domestic only)
Accommodation for 4 nights in scheduled hotels (or similar), according to chosen category
Lunch
Breakfast
Transfers, visits and entrance fees, according to itinerary
Tour with a local guide per destination
What's not included
Dinners
Arrival and departure International tickets are at the traveler's expense.
Additional nights as well as other facilities acquired outside the itinerary of Gran Colombia Tours.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please, take into account that most of the experiences and tours of this trip are done by foot.
Domestic flights include hold baggage of 23 kg.
You can decide in which of the cities you want to start and finish your trip.
The Tour Guide will contact you the day before in case you have any questions or assist you with any requirements
About Medellín
Medellín, nestled in a valley and surrounded by mountains, is renowned for its pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and remarkable transformation from its past. Known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Comuna 13
A vibrant and historic neighborhood known for its street art, community spirit, and the famous outdoor escalators that connect the hillside community to the city.
Cultural
2-3 hours
Free (tours may have a small fee)
Botero Plaza and Museo de Antioquia
Home to a collection of Fernando Botero's famous works, including his distinctive 'fat' style paintings and sculptures, as well as other notable artists.
Art/Museum
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Parque Arví
A vast nature reserve accessible via cable car, offering hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and a peaceful escape from the city.
Nature
Half day
Cable car: $6,000 COP (approx. $1.60 USD) one way
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, plantain, avocado, arepa, and fried egg.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian versions available
Arepas
Cornmeal patties grilled or fried, often stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or avocado.
Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Sancocho
A traditional soup made with chicken, beef, or fish, along with plantains, yuca, and other vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in Parque Arví
El Peñol rock climb
Paragliding in San Antonio de Pereira
Coffee tours
Spa day in El Poblado
Strolling through Parque Lleras
Street art tours in Comuna 13
Visiting museums in El Centro
Best Time to Visit
December to March (dry season)
This is the best time to visit Medellín due to the lower rainfall and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
18-26°C (64-79°F)
64-79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and among younger people)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Medellín has undergone a significant transformation and is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Staying in tourist areas and taking basic precautions can help ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or app-based services.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Getting there
By air
- José María Córdova International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal del Norte, Terminal del Sur
Getting around
Public transport
The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable, with two lines covering key areas. It's the best way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Tappx, Cabify
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
El Poblado
Laureles
El Centro
Day trips
Guatapé
80 km (50 miles) from Medellín • Full day
A colorful colonial town known for its vibrant houses, the famous El Peñol rock, and the nearby Lake Guatapé.
Jardín
250 km (155 miles) from Medellín • Overnight
A picturesque town in the Antioquia region, known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and traditional architecture.
Santa Fe de Antioquia
80 km (50 miles) from Medellín • Full day
A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Festivals
Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • August
Festival de la Música del Pacífico Petronio Álvarez • Late August to early September
Medellín International Poetry Festival • June
Pro tips
- Use the SITV card for seamless transfers between metro, Metroplús, and cable cars.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Visit Comuna 13 for a unique and authentic cultural experience, but be respectful of the community.
- Take the Metrocable for stunning views of the city and to explore the hillside neighborhoods.
- Explore the city's street art scene, which is a vibrant and important part of Medellín's cultural identity.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
