4-week itinerary in Colombia: the alternative to the must-sees

Looking for a different way to explore Colombia? This 4-week itinerary is your key to a trip that’s globally off the beaten track, away from the tourist crowds of the main tourist sites, without losing out on beauty and diversity. Start in Bogotá, the dynamic capital where history and modernity meet. Then take to the mysterious Guaviare, a little-visited region where the wilderness offers breathtaking scenery and unforgettable adventures.

Continue your journey to Pereira, in the heart of the coffee-growing region, where you can savor the finest cups while exploring the verdant plantations. Next, discover the colonial charm of Salamina, a picturesque village that seems frozen in time. Jericó, with its colorful streets and peaceful atmosphere, will seduce you with its authenticity. Then on to Medellín, the country’s second-largest city, with its astonishing development (no pun intended).

For an unforgettable finishing touch, relax on the wild, secluded beaches of the Chocó Pacific, a natural paradise far from the rest of the world. End your trip in Medellín, before returning home with beautiful memories of Colombia.

This itinerary will take you to an authentic and lesser-known Colombia, rich in unique experiences and memorable encounters. Get ready for four weeks of discovery, adventure and unforgettable moments.

The times mentioned are indicative and subject to change, depending on the departure/arrival times of the various air transfers.

Course

4-week itinerary in Colombia: the alternative to the must-sees

Duration: 4 weeks. Entry into Colombia from Bogotá and exit from Medellín.

When to go (ideally): July to September

Stages: 8 stages (Bogotá, San José del Guaviare, Pereira, Salamina, Jericó, Medellín x2, El Valle).

Travel: bus, cab, plane (4 internal flights)

Activities: city tours, visits to heritage villages, mountain and jungle hiking, snorkeling/diving, coffee finca tours, beaches, birdwatching, water sports, whale watching

Physical level required: medium/high

Welcome to Bogotá, the dynamic capital of Colombia. Perched at an altitude of over 2,600 metres in the heart of the majestic Andes mountains, this vibrant metropolis is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Founded in 1538, Bogotá is the country’s largest city, renowned for its diverse and welcoming population.

The city’s effervescent energy can be felt in its lively neighborhoods, colorful markets and vibrant art scene. The streets of the old town, La Candelaria, are lined with brightly-faced colonial houses, testimony to the city’s rich historical heritage.

Bogotá is also a cultural epicenter, home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters and concert halls. The local cuisine is an explosion of Colombian flavors, with a variety of regional dishes to savor. The city offers a striking contrast between its past and its future, promising a captivating experience for travelers seeking authenticity and contemporary discoveries.

Day 1: Bogotá – Arrival

Your adventure in Colombia begins as soon as you arrive at Bogotá‘s El Dorado international airport. After clearing immigration and customs, you can take a cab to your accommodation. The first evening will be free, giving you time to rest after the flight and acclimatize to life in the Colombian capital. Take advantage of this evening to relax and get ready to discover the wonders of Colombia in the days to come.

Day 2: Bogotá
^{Visit to Candelaria & Monserrate (can be done on your own or with a guide)}

Discover Bogotá’s history and culture on this leg of your trip. Stroll through the historic downtown area, with its cobblestone streets, century-old churches and museums that bear witness to Spanish colonization and Colombian independence. Don’t miss the Museo del Oro, where an impressive collection of gold and emerald objects tells the story of pre-Columbian history. In the afternoon, climb to the top of Mount Monserrate, over 3,000 metres above sea level, for a breathtaking panoramic view of Bogotá, offering a unique perspective on the city.

Day 3: Bogotá
^{Chingaza National Nature Park (guide required)}

A visit to Chingaza National Park, just a few hours from Bogotá, offers an unforgettable immersion in Colombian nature. Covering more than 76,000 hectares, the park is home to a variety of ecosystems ranging from páramos to Andean forests. Hiking, wildlife observation and exploration of glacial lakes such as the Siecha Lakes are key activities. Be prepared with warm clothing and respect for the environment to fully enjoy this high-altitude adventure. A guide is required to enter the park, and it’s quite complicated to do a 1-day hike by public transport, as it takes too much time. The best option is to rent a car, or take a day trip from Bogotá. Beware, the route is not so easy, ranging from 3400 to 3800m altitude for the Siecha Lakes trail.

Alternative: Guatavita lagoon OR hike to Chorrera waterfall.

San José del Guaviare, located in southeastern Colombia, is a city surrounded by spectacular nature, mainly the Amazon rainforest. Known for its biodiversity-rich landscapes, this region offers visitors a unique immersion in the wilderness. Attractions include impressive rock formations such as La Puerta de Orion. The Guaviare and Inírida rivers offer wildlife-watching opportunities, including pink dolphins, and the waters of Caño Sabana take on beautiful colors thanks to endemic algae called Macarenia clavigera which, between July and October, tint the waters with unique red, pink, purple, yellow and orange hues (this is an alternative to Caño Cristales).

San José del Guaviare is also rich in pre-Columbian archaeological sites, such as the Cerro Azul rock paintings, bearing witness to the region’s ancient history. Visitors can discover the local culture of indigenous communities such as the Puinave and Guayaberos through handicrafts and culinary traditions.

If you’re on a budget, we recommend using a local agency offering all-inclusive tours (accommodation, food, activities) to make the most of your time on site.

It’s a good alternative to the more touristy and expensive La Macarena and Caño Cristales.

Day 4 / TRANSFER / San José del Guaviare

To reach San José del Guaviare quickly, we recommend flying from Bogotá’s El Dorado airport with ClicAir or Satena, a journey of around 1 hour 20 minutes. As soon as you arrive, the adventure begins with an immersion in the region’s characteristic heat and humidity, in stark contrast to Bogotá’s cooler climate. If you’ve chosen an all-inclusive tour including accommodation, meals and activities, you’ll be looked after from the moment you arrive in San José del Guaviare.

Day 5: San José del Guaviare
^{Valle de los laberintos-Puerta de Orión-Trankilandia}

Start your day with a hike through the site known as “Valle de los Laberintos” (Valley of the Labyrinths). This unique spot is formed by rocky outcrops from the Guiana Shield that have naturally created fascinating labyrinths. Cross the maze of rocks until you reach the Porte d’Orion, an emblematic Guaviare site where a stone structure rises from a base fifteen meters long and twelve meters high. Then continue your walk to the TRANKILANDIA ecotourism farm, where you can admire the Macarenia Clavijera, an aquatic plant that tints the river with pink hues. Enjoy lunch at the farm, relax in the swimming area, then return to your accommodation to round off a day rich in discovery.

Day 6: San José del Guaviare
^{Túneles Naturales- Ciudad de Piedra}

In the morning, take a vehicle to the “natural tunnels”. Once there, walk through various attractions: unique rock formations, rock art, tunnels, and a brief dip in a natural pool nicknamed the “natural jacuzzi”. The walk covers a total distance of 8 km (4 km out, 4 km back). After a late-morning lunch, the afternoon is devoted to a visit to the “stone city”, a magnificent place where Guyana’s vertical walls are still standing, evoking a city shaped by nature. This trail runs for a total of 5 km (2.5 km out, 2.5 km back). Make the most of this day to explore these natural and historical wonders, offering total immersion in the natural and cultural beauty of the San José del Guaviare region.

Day 7: San José del Guaviare
^{Cerro Azul rock paintings – City tour}

In the morning, you’ll head to Cerro Azul for a day’s trekking to a sacred tepuy. During this excursion, you’ll explore a cave and visit three main rock art sites, offering spectacular views from the viewpoints. After this adventure, return to the nearby village for a well-deserved lunch. Then it’s off to downtown San José del Guaviare for a guided tour that includes a riverside stroll, a visit to the main park and a chance to buy local handicrafts. End this enriching day by returning to your accommodation, soaking up the natural and cultural beauty of the region.

Day 8: San José del Guaviare
^{Laguna Damas del Nare (pink dolphins)}

The Laguna Damas del Nare, the largest in the Guaviare department with its 80 hectares of water mirror, is not just beautiful and immense. What makes it unique is the presence of a family of dolphins that have lived here for decades, coexisting harmoniously with the local population. In this lagoon, you can swim and even interact with these magnificent aquatic mammals (don’t forget your swimsuit!). The Damas del Nare are a unique community tourism attraction, benefiting all the families living around the lagoon. Take advantage of this exceptional experience to discover local nature and culture in an immersive and enriching way. Return to San José del Guaviare in the afternoon, to spend the last night in the small town, before taking to the skies the following day.

Pereira is the capital of Risaralda department, located in the center of Colombia’s coffee-growing region. Founded in 1863, it is known for its dynamic economic growth and modern infrastructure. The city is an important commercial, university and service center, with institutions such as the Technological University of Pereira. Points of interest include the Plaza de Bolívar with its famous statue of Simón Bolívar, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Poverty, and various parks such as Parque El Lago. Pereira boasts a pleasant climate, tree-lined avenues and a vibrant atmosphere.

The area around Pereira is full of natural wonders. Los Nevados National Park (Nevado del Ruiz, Nevado Santa Isabel in particular), with its snow-capped peaks and hiking trails, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Water sports enthusiasts can head to the Rio La Vieja for activities such as rafting and kayaking, offering a thrilling adventure through picturesque landscapes. The Santuario de Fauna y Flora Otún Quimbaya is another gem of the region, home to incredible biodiversity. Visitors can observe a variety of bird species, howler monkeys and lush flora on guided hikes.

Day 9 / TRANSFER / Pereira

Get ready for a long day’s travel! As there are no direct flights between San José del Guaviare and Pereira, you’ll have to make the journey in two stages, with a compulsory stopover in Bogotá. Start with a flight from San José del Guaviare to Bogotá (1h20) with ClicAir or Satena. Then take another flight from Bogotá to Pereira (1h) with Avianca or Latam. Please note that two separate reservations are required. So allow at least 3 hours in Bogotá to collect your luggage from the first flight and rebook it for the second. Once in Pereira, take a cab to your accommodation.

Day 10: Pereira
^{Nevado Santa Isabel (guide required)}

Nevado de Santa Isabel is a majestic snow-capped volcano located in the Colombian Andes, in Los Nevados National Park. Rising to 4,950 meters, it is renowned for its icy landscapes and unique biodiversity, attracting hikers and nature lovers alike. The excursion starts at 5 a.m. (yes, it does sting a little!). From Pereira, in a van or 4*4, you’ll head up towards the Nevado de Santa Isabel. The whole trip lasts around 8 hours, including stops for breakfast, lunch, registration, information and an ascent walk. In particular, you’ll tread the Climate Change Trail (formerly known as the Glacier Edge Trail) to see just how much these ecosystems have already been disrupted by global warming.

Day 11: Pereira
^{Otún Quimbaya flora and fauna sanctuary}

The Otún Quimbaya flora and fauna sanctuary, located in the department of Risaralda, is 90% Andean forest. It plays a crucial role in the conservation of the upper Otún river basin and is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, including howler monkeys, spectacled bears, tapirs, eagles, deer and numerous birds. Meet at 6-7 a.m. at Plaza Bolivar, or directly at your hotel (depending on the agency). A coordinator will give you all the instructions you need to make your experience a pleasant one. Next, you’ll head to the Vereda La Suiza area, to the Otún Quimbaya flora and fauna sanctuary. Here, a park interpreter will accompany you on a 4 km trail, illustrating the richness of the species present and offering an immersive conservation experience in the sub-Andean forests. After the tour, you can enjoy lunch at the sanctuary’s restaurant, with vegetarian options available on prior request. Return to Pereira around 3pm.

Day 12: Pereira
^{Raft trip on the Rio La Vieja}

This recreational and scenic activity takes place in small guadua (South American bamboo) boats on the navigable sections of the La Vieja river. The rafting trip lasts 5 hours and requires clothing suited to the conditions (heat + water). Remember to bring sun protection, a hat or cap, and a change of clothes. The route generally runs from Puerto Alejandría (Quimbaya) to Piedras de Moler (Cartago). Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the “Reserva del Ocaso”, a 110-hectare primary forest home to numerous endangered species of flora and fauna, including the howler monkey. We recommend you take your own bus from the Pereira terminal to the nearby village of Quimbaya, where the activity starts.

Salamina, a heritage village in Colombia’s Caldas department, is a veritable treasure nestled in the heart of the coffee region. Founded in 1825, this enchanting village is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and peaceful atmosphere that seems frozen in time. Its cobbled streets lined with houses featuring colorful facades and carved wooden balconies, often adorned with flowers, create a picturesque scene worthy of postcards. The heart of the village is the central square, dominated by the imposing Church of the Immaculate Conception. This square is the hub of Salamina’s social life, surrounded by cafés, craft stores and historic buildings. The warm and welcoming locals are proud of their heritage and culture, which they often share with visitors through local stories and deep-rooted traditions.

Salamina’s surroundings are equally captivating. The nearby Samaria Valley is famous for being home to the Quindío Wax Palm, Colombia’s national tree. This valley is a favorite spot for hikers and nature lovers, offering spectacular scenery of green hills and giant palm forests. Birdwatching is a popular activity here, with many endemic species to discover. Salamina is also surrounded by coffee plantations, offering a complete immersion in Colombian coffee culture.

Day 13 / TRANSFER / Salamina

Change of scenery! It’s finally time to leave Colombia’s big cities behind and discover the typical villages of the Andes, true guardians of the country’s traditions. To reach the heritage village of Salamina from Pereira, you’ll need to travel in two stages. First, take a bus from the Pereira terminal to Manizales (with companies such as Arauca or Expreso Palmira), a journey of around 1h45. Then take a second bus from the Manizales terminal to Salamina (Autolegal company), a journey of around 3 hours. Buses are frequent, but make sure you leave Pereira early enough, as buses generally stop serving villages after 6pm.

Day 14: Salamina
^{Village tour + Trapiche tour}

Salamina, a Colombian heritage village, offers a multitude of sites and activities for visitors curious to discover its historical and cultural charm. In the heart of the village, the central square and the Church of the Immaculate Conception, surrounded by colonial houses with colorful facades and flower-filled balconies, form a picturesque setting. Calle Real, the main street lined with historic buildings and craft stores, is ideal for a stroll. The Mirador El Filo, on the outskirts of the village, offers panoramic views of Salamina and the surrounding countryside, while the Casa de la Cultura, with its exhibition rooms, reveals elements of Salamina’s heritage, spanning the period from pre-Columbian times to the present day. When visiting Salamina, a must-do activity is a visit to a trapiche, a traditional sugarcane farm. Trapiches are places where sugarcane juice is extracted to produce panela, an unrefined sugar essential to Colombian cuisine. On this tour, you’ll be able to see the cane crushing process, usually carried out with old-fashioned wooden and metal machines, and learn how the juice is heated and reduced to a solid, sweet mass.

Day 15: Salamina
^{San Felix & Samaria Valley}

San Félix is a picturesque village near Salamina, in the department of Caldas, Colombia. To get there, the easiest way is to take a bus around 6 a.m. (yes, 6 a.m.!), or book a (much more expensive) 4*4 from the central square, for a journey of around 1 hour. It’s best known for its breathtaking scenery and wax palm forests. The Samaria Valley, accessible from San Felix, is an emblematic place where you can admire these majestic palms, the tallest in the world, which rise up to 60 meters in height, as well as the touristy Cocora Valley or Carbonera Valley. The valley is a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers, offering spectacular panoramic views. Trails wind through green hills and cloud forests, allowing total immersion in the natural beauty and unique biodiversity of this Andean region. A particular highlight is the Mirador del Valle de la Samaria, which, in addition to offering beautiful views, is also a family-run reforestation project. You can also explore the region on horseback if you wish. The bus from San Felix to Salamina leaves from the central square at around 2pm.

Jericó, located in Colombia’s Antioquia department, is a heritage village famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and picturesque charm. Nestled in the mountains, it offers breathtaking panoramic views and a pleasant climate. Jericó’s cobbled streets and colorful houses tell the story of the region’s history, while the majestic Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes cathedral and numerous museums, such as the small Maja museums.

Local artisans are renowned for making carrieles, traditional leather bags that are symbols of local craftsmanship. Nature lovers can explore hiking trails in the Las Nubes nature reserve, visit coffee plantations, or admire the superb Cauca Canyon. Jericó is also the birthplace of Santa Laura Montoya, Colombia’s first saint, whose birthplace is a place of pilgrimage. With its tranquil atmosphere, rich cultural heritage and magnificent scenery, Jericó is a must-see destination for travellers in search of authenticity.

Day 16 / TRANSFER / Jericó

To get from Salamina to Jericó by bus, start your journey early in the morning by boarding a bus bound for La Pintada (bus companies: Empresa Arauca, Flota Ospina, Expreso Sideral) from the carriers’ offices located on Carrera 6 between Calle 10 y 9a. The initial 3 to 4-hour journey offers spectacular scenery of verdant valleys and coffee plantations. Arriving in La Pintada, a small town at the confluence of the Cauca and Arma rivers, take another bus to Jericó, a 1h-1h30 journey by chiva, Trans Mercedes bus or cab. When you arrive in Jericó, explore the cobblestone streets, colorful houses, historic churches and local craft stores, while savoring the warm atmosphere of this heritage village. This trip will allow you to discover the natural and cultural beauty of the Antioquia region.

Day 17: Jericó
^{Village tour + Paragliding (bonus)}

Jericó invites you on an authentic adventure full of charm. Stroll along its cobbled streets lined with colorful houses with flower-filled balconies and feel its warm, peaceful atmosphere. Discover the majestic Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes cathedral, an architectural gem from the mid-20th century, as well as the Santuario Santa Laura with its beautiful blue ceiling. Immerse yourself in local history and culture by visiting emblematic sites such as the House-Museum of Mother Laura, Colombia’s first saint, or the 3 MAJA mini-museums. The Botanical Garden, which opens onto the El Salvador viewpoint, is also worth a visit for its superb views of the surrounding Andes and its peaceful setting. Finally, simply stroll through the streets, sampling the local cardamom sweets and the village dessert, postre jericoano. It’s also possible to paraglide directly out of the village for around 250,000 COP (allow around 2 hours in total, from Jericó by tuktul and back).

Day 18: Jericó
^{Finca de café Ariel + hike to Las Nubes nature reserve}

We recommend that you start your day early with a short hike to the mirador of the Las Nubes nature reserve. This 2- to 2.5-hour round-trip hike, consisting of an ascent followed by a descent, will give you spectacular views first thing in the morning. Then, at 11 a.m., take a Jeep from Jericó’s main square to the Ariel coffee finca, a journey of around 50 minutes followed by a 20-minute walk. The family who run this finca are incredibly welcoming, as is the place itself, perched atop a cliff offering breathtaking views of the Cauca Canyon. For COP 50,000 per person, you can enjoy a delicious traditional meal and a guided tour of the plantations and facilities. You’ll learn all about the coffee growing and harvesting process, an experience as enriching as it is instructive. Around 3:30 pm, it’s time to get back on the road to where the Jeep dropped you off in the morning. You’ll arrive in Jericó around 5pm, enriched by a day full of discovery and adventure.

Medellín, nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant year-round climate, is a vibrant metropolis nestled in the Aburrá Valley. Once infamous, Medellín has transformed itself into a model of urban innovation and resilience. The city is distinguished by its modern transport network, including the famous Metrocable, linking the mountainous districts to the city center.

Medellín offers a wealth of culture, with museums such as the Museo de Antioquia, home to the works of Fernando Botero, and annual events such as the Feria de las Flores. Visitors can explore the lively El Poblado district, known for its stores, restaurants and nightlife, or relax in green spaces such as the Botanical Gardens.

Urban and social revitalization efforts have made Medellín a must-see destination, combining history, culture and modernity. This impressive transformation makes it an essential step towards understanding the dynamic and innovative soul of Colombia.

Day 19 / TRANSFER / Medellín

If you wish, you can still make the most of your morning in Jericó to take one last stroll through its beautiful, timeless streets. If not, head for Carrera 4 (next to the Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes cathedral), where the transport company offices are located. The journey to Medellín takes 3h-3h30, with Terminal del Sur as the final destination. Once there, the easiest thing to do is to take a cab to your accommodation, and start enjoying this interesting city.

Day 20: Medellín
^{Tour of downtown & Comuna (can be done on your own or with a guide)}

Visiting Medellín starts with an exploration of the city center, where energy and history meet. Start at Plaza Botero, dotted with Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures, and visit the Museo de Antioquia to immerse yourself in Colombian art. Stroll through the La Candelaria district, where colonial architecture rubs shoulders with modern buildings, and discover Parque Berrío, the historic heart of the city. Then take the Metrocable to a comuna, such as the famous Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous districts, now a symbol of transformation and resilience (alternatively: comunas 3,4,8, less touristy and with a guide strongly recommended). Join a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood’s history, admire the impressive murals and talk to residents about community initiatives. This combination of vibrant downtown and revitalized comuna offers an authentic glimpse of Medellín’s urban renaissance. You can then enjoy the nightlife in the Laureles or Poblado districts.

Nestled on Colombia’s Pacific coast, the El Valle region is a natural paradise where biodiversity reigns supreme. Surrounded by dense tropical forests and bordered by the ocean, this area offers a unique and preserved ecosystem. The waters of Colombia’s Pacific Ocean are renowned for the majestic humpback whales that come here each year to breed. The black sand beaches of El Valle are a haven for sea turtles laying their eggs, allowing visitors to witness magical moments of marine life.

The surrounding forests resound with the songs of multicolored birds, attracting ornithologists from all over the world. Rare species such as the scarlet-backed cotinga and the palm tanager add vibrant touches to the verdant landscape. As you explore the jungle trails, you may come across capuchin monkeys, poison frogs and a host of fascinating insects.

The region is isolated, landlocked between the ocean, the jungle and the Andes. While this isolation is beneficial for the flora and fauna, it also limits economic development. The towns here are small and simple, where every project is a real challenge.

To stay in the Chocó department, you can opt for an “all-inclusive” package (accommodation, food, activities) directly from the lodges, which makes organization much easier. It is also possible to book accommodation only and find guides on site, either in the village or through your accommodation. However, this requires careful preparation, so as not to lose time once you’re there. The activities on offer are generally the same and last half a day each. Finally, there’s very little you can do on your own.

Day 21 / TRANSFER / El Valle

After a pleasant night in Medellín, head for the Enrique Olaya Herrera airport in the city to finally reach the Pacific coast. Flights last about an hour and are only available in the morning, operated by Satena or ClicAir. Expect to discover in Bahia Solano probably the smallest, most rustic and even most exotic airport of your life: José Celestino Mutis. You’ll have to deal with the heat, with the added bonus of humidity that won’t leave you indifferent. However, all the effort will be worth it when you find yourself in the heart of dense jungles that plunge into the Pacific Ocean. Once you’ve arrived at your accommodation for lunch, you can enjoy a variety of fish dishes typical of the coastal region. You’ll then have some free time to relax and explore the surrounding area, including a trip to the beach, before dinner.

NOTE 1: There are 2 airports in Medellín. The international airport is Jose Marie Cordova (MDE), 17km from the city. To get to Choco, flights only take off from Enrique Olaya Herrera airport, in the heart of the city.

NOTE 2: There are no ATMs in Choco. Make sure you withdraw enough money in Medellín before you leave.

Day 22: El Valle
^{Jungle trekking + Canoeing}

The day begins with a guided tour of the jungle surrounding the village. Along the way, visitors discover a multitude of local flora and fauna treasures. If they’re lucky, they’ll catch a glimpse of monkeys, toucans and brightly-colored dendrobates. Basilisks, nicknamed “Jesus Christ lizards” for their ability to run on water, add a spectacular touch to this adventure, as do the many insects, including the inevitable mosquitoes. The hike ends at the foot of a charming little waterfall, where a refreshing swim offers a well-deserved moment of relaxation. The return journey to El Valle is made in a traditional wooden canoe, gliding peacefully along the Tundó and Valle rivers. Along the way, you may come across small caimans and a variety of birds, such as waders and kingfishers. You’ll be back in time for lunch, and can take advantage of the afternoon to relax on the beach, as the heat and humidity can be exhausting. In fact, it’s best to start as early as possible (around 6-7 a.m.) to maximize your chances of spotting animals and benefit from milder temperatures.

Suggestion: check with your accommodation to arrange a short night walk (approx. 1h) in the jungle. Spoiler alert, you’ll be admiring a lot of insects and frogs, but it’s very interesting (well, a bit scary too, given the size of some of the specimens).

Day 23: El Valle
^{Natural pools + Whale watching}

A new day begins, this time dedicated to the sea. The adventure begins with a guided walk along the beach, leading to aquariums and natural pools formed between the rocks. The guide takes you along at low tide, making it easy to observe various species of fish evolving in calm, crystal-clear waters. Equipped with a mask and snorkel, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the marine wealth as you explore these little havens of aquatic life. After this fascinating immersion, it’s time to return to the lodge. Once back at the lodge, you have several options: enjoy the rest of the day free to discover the hidden treasures of the coast on a beautiful hike, or plan another exciting activity. In the afternoon, plan a whale-watching trip with your host. Every year, between July and October, the majestic humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Colombian Pacific to breed and give birth. El Valle offers a privileged vantage point for this natural spectacle.

Day 24: El Valle
^{Utria National Nature Park}

Today’s program includes the region’s main protected natural area: Utría National Park. Created in 1987 and covering 54,300 hectares, this park is a natural gem, particularly magnificent when viewed from the sea. Access and hiking are limited, adding to its exclusive charm. The hour-long boat trip, often accompanied by playful dolphins, adds a magical touch to the adventure. The morning begins with a guided hike through mangroves and forest, where you can spot stingrays, globe fish, hummingbirds, lizards and monkeys. The guide shares fascinating anecdotes about local medicinal plants and endemic species, enriching the experience. After the walk, the adventure continues in the ocean. The crystal-clear waters of Utría National Park are perfect for snorkeling. Two sites await you: the first at the entrance to the park, with a boat wreck at the bottom, and the second at Isla Playa Blanca. After exploring these underwater wonders, it’s time to return to El Valle for a late lunch. The day ends with a well-deserved rest and the preparation of the next day’s departure.

Suggestion: on the way, you can arrange with your guide to make a stop at Mama Orbe (by contacting them beforehand), between Parc Utría and El Valle. They have a program to save hawksbill turtles, with the possibility of releasing baby turtles and witnessing egg-laying whenever possible. The turtle season lasts all year round, but is most intense from July to December.

Day 25: El Valle
^{Day of rest/beach relaxation}

For this last day in El Valle, there’s nothing better than relaxing on the magnificent surrounding beaches. After a leisurely breakfast, take a walk along Playa Almejal and enjoy the place and the sea one last time. Recharge the batteries, because the end of the trip is nigh. And it’s always best to return home with your batteries fully charged!

Yes, back to Medellín again! At the same time, you don’t have much choice but to leave Choco and the Pacific coast behind. Medellín is also our last stop in Colombia, before we have to leave this beautiful country.

Day 26 / TRANSFER / Medellín

Get ready for a short transfer from the wild Pacific coast to the majestic Colombian Andes. Say goodbye to sweltering heat, persistent humidity and mosquitoes. Start by arranging your transfer from your accommodation in El Valle to José Celestino Mutis airport. Fly to Medellín’s Enrique Olaya Herrera regional airport (approx. 50-minute flight). Most flights are in the morning, with ClicAir and Satena.

Day 27: Medellín
^{Parque Arví+ Buy souvenirs / gifts}

Parque Arví, near Medellín, Colombia, is a splendid nature reserve perfect for a day of adventure and relaxation. Take the metro to Acevedo station. From there, hop on the Metrocable (line K) to Santo Domingo station, then change to line L, which will take you directly to Parque Arví. Enjoy panoramic views of Medellín and the Aburrá Valley during the cable car ride. Once at the park, stop by the visitor center for information on the many hiking trails. The Arroyito Trail is ideal for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to admire the local flora and fauna, including species of birds and butterflies. For lunch, take advantage of the picnic areas or sample local dishes in the park’s restaurants. Once back in town, if you want a piece of Colombia to take home with you, you can buy souvenirs at the Sanalejo craft market (first Saturday of every month near Plaza Botero) or the mini market at Parque El Poblado.

Day 28: Departure from Colombia

Oh, your last day in Colombia has already arrived – time has flown! Now it’s time to head for José María Córdova International Airport and say goodbye to this magnificent country. We hope your stay here has brought you as much happiness as it has for us!

Budget (estimate)

4-week itinerary in Colombia: the alternative to the must-sees

Here’s an estimate of the total budget per person on site (excluding plane tickets in and out of Colombia) in Colombian pesos. Prices for activities include guides and tours mentioned in the itinerary.

Travelling with two or more people and staying in a private room can be more economical than taking a single room, often at the same or nearly the same price. As each situation is unique, it may be necessary to adjust the budget by choosing less luxurious accommodation or simpler meals, for example.