Colombia for families: from Bogota to Mucura Island beaches

Bogota

Day 1: Touchdown in Bogota

Welcome to Bogota! Upon your arrival at El Dorado International Airport, take a private transfer to your hotel for check-in and some time to rest.

The afternoon is free for you to explore the neighborhoods of Bogota, the Colombian capital filled with a wonderful mixture of history and modernity. Be sure to take time to rest, however, as you and your family have plenty of sightseeing to enjoy the following day!

Bogota

Day 2: Explore Bogota's icons

Today, set out with your crew to explore the city on a guided walking or biking tour.

You will see a number of iconic sights, such as the historic center with its colorful colonial buildings, and the Plaza de Bolivar - home to some of Bogota's architectural highlights, including the city hall, the houses of congress, the supreme court, and the venerable Catedral Primada de Colombia.

You will also visit a traditional fruit market, where you can taste tropical fruits as you soak up the buzz of this bustling city, meeting and getting to know the locals along the way.

Bogota - Salento

Day 3: Journey to Salento

Today, check out of your Bogota hotel and either transfer to the airport for a morning flight to Salento, or prepare for a comfortable drive - a journey time of around seven hours, filled with scenic landscapes.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel or lodge, taking time to rest after your travels. Then, set out to explore an array of sights for which Salento is famous: the main town square, a charming space where you can grab some coffee and admire the colorful buildings; and a clutch of artisan shops, brimming with handmade crafts and souvenirs for you to pick up and bring home with you.

Salento

Day 4: Enjoy a coffee tour & hiking trails

Begin today with a visit to a local coffee farm, where you and your children will learn all about Colombia’s world-renowned coffee production with a fun, interactive tour - everyone will get to try making their own coffee as part of this immersive experience!

Optionally, continue with a tour of the Cocora Valley, taking a hike among the towering wax palms, Colombia's national tree. The trail is manageable for kids, with plenty of nature to explore. You could also opt to hike to Santa Rita – a short, scenic excursion to a stunning waterfall, perfect for some outdoor exploration as a family.

Salento - Santa Marta - Tayrona National Park

Day 5: The natural wonders of Tayrona

This morning, leave Salento behind for a flight to Santa Marta. Upon arrival there, you'll have the option to explore the city before traveling on to Tayrona National Park. Take a stroll around Santa Marta’s historic center, visit the local museums and parks, and snap a family photo in front of the famous Santa Marta Cathedral.

Continue your journey towards Tayrona National Park. There, you'll check into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the pool, soaking up your quiet and tranquil surroundings.

Tayrona National Park

Day 6: Learn about the secrets of Tayronaka

Today, you'll embark on an exciting excursion filled with historic wonder: a trip to Tayronaka, the lost city of the Tayrona indigenous people.

With help from your tour guide, retrace the history of this ancient civilization. Then, board a lancha (a small motorboat) to journey down the Don Diego river until you've reached the Caribbean Sea. On the way, you may spot monkeys and colorful birds in their natural habitat - so keep your eyes peeled! 

You'll have another chance to look out for monkeys, birds, and other wildlife - either from the comfort of your accommodation or along the nearby trails, before settling down for the night.

Tayrona National Park

Day 7: At leisure in Tayrona National Park

Spend a day at leisure amidst the natural riches of Tayrona National Park, or opt to take part in some cultural activities. You and your family could visit nearby indigenous villages or local cultural centers, to learn more about the traditions and history of the region.

Tayrona - Cartagena

Day 8: Journey to Cartagena

Leaving Tayrona National Park behind, it's time to travel on to Cartagena - a five-hour drive from Santa Marta. Upon arrival there, check into your hotel and take time to relax after your travels.

With the afternoon at leisure, you could set out and explore the city on your own. Walk along the old city walls, soaking up views of the Caribbean Sea, and enjoy a taste of local flavors - don't miss your chance to try crispy mojarra frita, or ultra-fresh ceviche!

Cartagena - Mucura Island

Day 9: Get ready for island fun!

Today, leave the bustle of Cartagena behind as you travel by boat to Mucura Island, about three hours away. You'll arrive at a serene island paradise, perfect for some well-earned family relaxation.

Spend the afternoon enjoying the island's natural beauty and riches: try your hand at snorkeling or swimming in clear, warm waters - ideal for a family adventure above and below the surface. Alternatively, spend the day playing in the sand, relaxing, and taking in the tropical surroundings, or find a seafood restaurant to sample fresh fish and other Caribbean specialties.

Come evening, don't miss the incredible sunset views from the beach, before retiring to your accommodation for the night.

Mucura Island

Day 10: At leisure on Mucura Island

Spend the day fully at leisure on Mucura Island, with a choice of multiple optional activities to help you make the most of your time.

You could head out for a day of island exploration, renting bikes or taking a guided walk to discover the natural beauty and wildlife of Mucura Island. Water sports fanatics could have a go at kayaking, paddle-boarding, or other fun water activities available at your accommodation. For a change of scene, take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Tintipan or Isla del Sol, where a world of discoveries awaits.

Mucura Island

Day 11: Another day of relaxation on Mucura Island

Spend your last day at leisure on Mucura Island, either at the beach or partaking in a host of optional activities. We'd recommend a family-friendly cooking class or a visit to the local fish market, to learn about regional ingredients and enjoy immersive interactions with the island's residents.

Mucura Island - Cartagena

Day 12: Goodbye, Colombia!

This morning, leave Mucura Island behind with a boat trip taking you back to Cartagena. From there, you'll transfer on to the airport, where your return flight home awaits. Have a safe trip and visit again soon!