Colombia's Caribbean treasures: Cartagena to Punta Gallinas

Cartagena

Day 1: Welcome to Cartagena

Upon your arrival in Cartagena, your transfer will bring you to your accommodation for check-in.

Enjoy the day at your own leisure - simply relax at the hotel after your long flight or explore the neighbourhood at your own pace for first impressions of the city.

If you like, we can arrange an optional dinner at a local seafood restaurant for the evening. Try fresh ceviche or fried fish at one of Cartagena’s famous coastal eateries before returning to the hotel for a good night's sleep.

Cartagena

Day 2: Cartagena's sights and flavors

Start off your Colombia experience by joining a cooking class to explore the exciting flavours of your destination. You'll learn more about the local food, and bring back new recipes to try at home.

In the afternoon, meet your private guide for a day and night walking tour of the Walled City and the Getsemani neighbourhood. The Walled city is, also known as the Old Town, one of the most beautiful parts of Cartagena.

In the Walled City you'll find terraced gardens, imposing architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. Getsemani is the bohemian quarter of Cartagena that combines traditional Colombian culture with modern urban life.

Cartagena

Day 3: Beachside relaxation on the Rosario Islands

Today you’ll embark on a boat tour to the Rosario Islands, an archipelago roughly 12 miles from Cartagena. Explore the pristine islands and go snorkeling in the clear waters or simply sit back and relax on the beach.

Once back in Cartagena, head out for a rum tasting in the Getsemaní district if time allows to round off your final night in the city.

Cartagena - Santa Marta - Minca

Day 4: A pitstop in Santa Marta

After breakfast, get ready for a 5-hour drive to Minca, a village in the verdant mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

On the way, stop to explore Santa Marta's historic center where you'll be able to visit the Cathedral of Santa Marta and the nearby Parque de los Novios. Walk along the Malecon and enjoy the seaside promenade with great views of the bay and local seafood stands.

Finally, continue your journey to Minca where you'll be spending the night.

Minca

Day 5: Exploring everything Minca has to offer

The small mountain village of Minca is famous for its organic coffee, but it offers a variety of other activities and sights of interest.

Today you can choose from a range of activities such as mountain biking, bird-watching, hiking to explore hidden waterfalls, visiting a coffee plantation as well as a cacao plantation. What do you fancy? 

After an active day out, you'll return to spend the night at your accommodation in Minca.

Minca - Tayrona National Park

Day 6: The natural riches of Tyrona National Park

After an early start, you'll leave Minca to visit Tayrona National Park. one of Colombia’s most famous national parks where the thriving jungle meets white sandy beaches.

There, you'll embark on a picturesque hike to explore the different beaches of Tayrona. During this hike, you'll learn more about the local environment and the local indigenous people as well as their traditions and way of life.

Once you arrive at Playa Cabo San Juan, it's time to relax and perhaps go for a swim in the pristine sea. Enjoy the beach surrounded by lush jungle and turquoise waters. 

If you prefer something more active, explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna on a hike through the jungle. The park's rich biodiversity is sure to impress all nature lovers.

Finally, you'll spend the night near Tayrona National Park.

Tayronaka

Day 7: A lost city and hidden wildlife

Today, your tour will take you to Tayronaka, a lost city of the Tayrona indigenous people. Follow your tour guide as youl retrace the history of this ancient civilization.

Afterwards, board a lancha, a small motorboat, to go down the Don Diego river until you reach the Caribbean Sea. Keep an eye out for the local wildflife along the way - you may see monkeys and colorful birds in their natural habitat. 

In the afternoon, drive to Riohacha for your overnight stay.

Riohacha - Cabo De La Vela

Day 8: Wayuu settlements on the way to Cabo de la Vela

Today's destination is Cabo de la Vela. On your drive, you will explore this mostly deserted area inhabited by the Wayuu ethnic group.

Make a stop at Manaure, one of the biggest Colombian salt marshes. Then continue your journey to Cabo de la Vela where you'll check into your hotel.

There, you can go for a walk to Ojo de Aguas beaches and enjoy the magnificent sunset from the lighthouse, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the sight of the desert meeting the Caribbean Sea.

Cabo De La Vela - Punta Gallinas

Day 9: Punta Gallinas - where the desert meets the sea

Start your journey early, heading towards Colombia’s northernmost point, Punta Gallinas.

Upon arrival, you'll explore the desert dunes at Taroa. Walk up the stunning sand dunes that meet the sea, creating an almost surreal landscape.

Then, visit the Faro de la Vela lighthouse. This remote lighthouse is one of the northernmost points in South America and offers stunning views from its rocky promontory. Perhaps enjoy the beautiful sunset from this vantage point before returning to your hotel in Punta Gallinas for the night.

Punta Gallinas

Day 10: A boat ride or a cultural visit

Enjoy an early start to the day to watch the sun rise over the desert dunes. Experience the beauty of the early morning in Punta Gallinas with a leisurely walk along the dunes.

Today you can choose from two activities, depending on what appeals to you the most.

Option 1: Boat ride to explore Hondita Bay. Enjoy a boat trip along the coastline, spotting wildlife and enjoying the pristine waters. If you love the sea, this is the perfect activity for you.

Option 2: Cultural visit to the Wayuu community. If you prefer to learn more about the indigenous Wayuu culture, their traditions, and their way of life, this excursion may be right up your street. Engage with the local community and gain insights into their unique way of life.

At the end of the day, you'll return to Punta Gallinas.

Punta Gallinas - Uribia - Riohacha

Day 11: Indigenous market visit and beach fun

In the morning, travel through the vast desert landscapes towards Uribia. There, you'll explore the indigenous market where local Wayuu people sell their crafts and produce.

Next, continue on to Riohacha and check into your accommodation. This is the perfect opportunity to relax by the Riohacha beach - simply spend the afternoon unwinding by the beach and soaking in the laid-back vibe.

In the evening, you'll enjoy dinner at a Riohacha seaside restaurant. Take in the wonderful view of the sunset over the Caribbean while savoring the fresh food.

Riohacha - Santa Marta

Day 12: Adios, Colombia

On your final day, take a morning walk through the town and stroll along Riohacha’s Malecon. Enjoy the peaceful morning before traveling back to Santa Marta for your flight home.

We hope to see you back in Colombia again soon!