Welcome to Medellin, Colombia! Arrive at José María Córdova International Airport (JMC) by 3:00 pm and take included transportation to your hotel in Medellin.
Medellín is the capital of the mountainous province of Antioquia, Colombia. It is also called the City of Eternal Spring.
Get to know your new friends while enjoying some delicious Colombian cuisine and begin to settle into your new surroundings.
Take an included tour of the infamous Comuna 13 neighborhood and see its incredible transformation. Previously one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Colombia, Comuna 13 is now very safe for tourists, and the locals can’t wait to show you around.
Learn about the history of this neighborhood and how important it is to the city of Medellin.
Comuna 13 exemplifies how a crime-ridden neighborhood can become a cultural hub, boasting beautiful murals, graffiti art, hip-hop music, and breakdancing.
Ride the neighborhood’s unique outdoor escalators and hear how proud the people are to be the only neighborhood in the Americas with public transportation of this type.
Enjoy the upscale El Poblado neighborhood known for its cosmopolitan vibe and nightlife in the afternoon and evening. El Poblado is also where we host our Digital Nomad Trips for remote workers. This area is a hotbed for innovation, attracting people from around the world to work and play.
Catch a morning flight from Medellin to Santa Marta. Upon arrival, hop on your private transportation, which will drive you to your boutique hotel near Tayrona National Park.
Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains rising approximately 18,500 feet (5,650 meters) above sea level, Tayrona offers nature lovers a unique experience with outstanding landscapes and unforgettable sunsets.
Relax at the hotel with your new group of friends.
Tayrona National Natural Park has more than 14 beautiful beaches. The golden sand, and its diversity in fauna and flora of both land and sea, make this place an absolute paradise.
Take a hike through the park and admire your lush surroundings. We’ll go at our own pace, so this activity is perfect for everyone.
After your hike, visit Cabo San Juan Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Tayrona National Park due to its unparalleled beauty. Soak in the sun's rays or take a dip in the bright blue water.
Welcome to Cartagena, the second oldest city in the Americas.
Upon your arrival, enjoy a guided walking city tour. Learn about the battles and victories of the Europeans, the empowerment and influence of the Afro cultures, and explore the narrow and colorful colonial streets.
From its history to its food and nightlife within the walled city–Cartagena is amazing!
After breakfast, head to San Basilio de Palenque. The first “free town” in the Americas, Palenque, was founded by those who fled a life of slavery in colonial times. It’s a unique place, famous for its culture, language, gastronomy, and, of course, its history.
As you meander through this area, you will learn about the liberation process of the enslaved and the creation of their unique culture, traditions, and rituals. Palenque is an incredible derivation of African culture that has evolved on its own in South America, boasting its own song, dance, and religion. It has been named by UNESCO an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”
You will be invited into the home of one of the community leaders of Palenque to better understand what life is like for the Palenqueros.
For today’s adventure, you’ll visit the village of La Boquilla, near Cartagena. Your Trip Leader will take you to this fishing village where you will learn about the local fauna, and local people, and even take a canoe tour through the mangroves.
Get on your canoe and cross through the mangrove forest to the Cienaga de Juan Polo lagoon. You’ll even explore some natural mangrove tunnels like the Tunnel of Friendship, Love, and Luck.
The mangrove forest offers great flora and fauna. Among other things, you may see different species of birds. If we’re lucky we might see a coot or even a green parrot.
On the final day of our adventure, wake up and soak in the last morning in Cartagena together. Have your last cup of Colombian coffee while wandering within the walled city. Gaze in astonishment at Fort San Felipe, one the largest Spanish forts in the world.
Take included private transportation with your group back to the airport for your flight back home.
"I joined the U30X Colombia trip for my birthday and had a blast. After getting acclimated with the old city of Cartagena, we sipped some famous Colombian coffee made using a special syphon! The next day we all celebrated my birthday in Palenque, the first freed slave settlement in all the Americas. The crew set up surprises including a special blessing from the town's healer and a birthday cake. It was one of my most memorable birthdays! The next day we went to the beach where we thoroughly enjoyed the white sand beaches located on the city's island. We ended the trip with a visit to the new part of Cartagena, Bocagrande. It was very modern and lived up to its name "Little Miami". I can't wait to visit again. Thank you U30X." -Michella C.
"Under30Experiencs isn't just a travel company, it's a life changing excursion that reminds you why you love life so much. I've been to Costa Rica and Iceland with this company and the comradarie formed between all of us strangers was stronger than some people I've known my whole life. 10/10 BOOK THE TRIP! You won't regret it. Easy, Fun, Affordable, Memorable, Incredible, U30X. #puravida #brenavin #bookit" -Maria M.
"I've been on multiple trips with Under30 and I have one planned for this coming summer as well. With that said it's one of the most beneficial ways for a solo traveler to travel and not feel scared. You get to be a part of a great community who not only travels abroad but also away to bring members of your community together." -Meredith C.