Colombia

Duration:

8 Days / 7 Nights

Early Signup: $2,095

Regular: $2,295

Or $195 Down

THE EXPERIENCE

Welcome to Colombia! 

Aptly named the Gateway to South America due to its location, this country boats a wide array of landscapes, scenery, and cultures!

On this unique trip, you will visit three distinct parts of Colombia: The modern city of Medellin, lush national parks and beaches in Santa Marta, and the colonial city of Cartagena. 

If fully immersing yourself into a country’s culture is your cup of tea (or excellent Colombian coffee), then you’ll definitely enjoy this trip!

Start

Trip begins at José María Córdova Medellín International Airport (JMC) at 3:00 pm.

We recommend booking your flight to arrive a few hours before this time.

Finish

Trip ends at Rafael Núñez Cartagena International Airport (CTG) at 11:30 am.

We recommend booing your flight to depart a few hours after this time.

Physical Activity:

Light

This trip is relaxing and includes light activities with optional moderate activities. Participants can decide how much time they spend being active. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the experience.

Physical Activity:

Moderate

This trip is a good mix of activity and relaxation and includes moderate physical activities. Participants should expect to be active 3-4 hours most days. An active lifestyle is helpful though not required to enjoy the trip.

Physical Activity:

High

This trip is for those who enjoy being physically challenged and reaping the rewards. It includes moderate to intense physical activities and participants should expect to be active 6-8 hours most days. Participants should have an active lifestyle.

Cancellation Policy:

Very Flexible

This trip has a 30-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 30 days notice and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

Cancellation Policy:

Flexible

Because this trip has non-refundable tickets we have a 60-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 60 days notice and you can switch your trip less $195, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

Cancellation Policy:

Flexible

Because this trip has non-refundable tickets we have a 60-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 60 days notice and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

Trip Overview

Day 1

Welcome to Colombia

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.

Day 2

Explore Medellin

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.

Day 3

Welcome to Santa Marta

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.

Day 4

Tayrona National Park

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.

Day 5

Cartagena

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!

Day 6

San Basilio de Palenque

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.

Day 7

Mangrove Canoe Tour

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.

Day 8

Relaxation & Departure

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.

Day 9

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Colombia

What's Included:

  • 8 days & 7 nights of shared accommodations in boutique hotel rooms
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 4 dinners
  • One-way domestic flight from Medellin to Santa Marta
  • Comuna 13 Neighborhood Culture Tour
  • Chiva Rumbera Party Bus Experience
  • Full day in Tayrona National Park 
  • Walking tour of Cartagena
  • San Basilio de Palenque UNESCO Heritage Experience
  • Mangrove canoe tour in La Boquilla
  • Group airport pick-up upon arrival
  • Group airport drop-off upon departure
  • Under30Experiences Trip Leader
  • Personal recommendations for optional activities
  • The chance to meet some kick-ass people
  • Access to the Under30Experiences community
  • Taxes are always included, never hidden fees, & NO blackout dates
Book with confidence: it's free to switch your trip more than 60 days out

Travelers are responsible for international airfare to and from Colombia

Airfare booking details will be sent after registration – please wait to book your flight until you receive further instructions.

All Under30Experiences trip prices are in USD.

Duration:

8 Days / 7 Nights

Early Signup: $2,095

Regular: $2,295

OUR travelers LOVE US

U30X Trip Reviews

"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.

our awesome travelers