Travelpack

Medellin • Cartagena

Overview
Experience the true spirit of Colombia as Medellín’s vibrant city buzz meets Cartagena’s irresistible Caribbean charm. Explore colourful neighbourhoods filled with art and culture, savour the aroma of fresh coffee in the hills, wander romantic colonial streets by the sea, and unwind on sun-kissed islands with golden sunsets and tropical vibes. This journey blends culture, flavour, music, and unforgettable holiday magic from the mountains to the coast, creating the perfect Colombian escape.

Day 1: Hotel Poblado Plaza, Medellin
Flight from London Heathrow Airport to Medellín José María Córdova Airport, Colombia via Miami International Airport
¡Welcome to Medellín!
Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel + Guide
Private service with a Spanish-speaking driver and guide service in Spanish, English, Portuguese, French, or German.
Upon arrival at the International Airport Jose Maria Cordova in Medellin, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Our guide will assist you with the check-in process at the hotel and provide you with a detailed itinerary of all the services included in your trip. Additionally, you will receive our office contact information, including the 24-hour emergency number.
Notes: Our transfer includes transportation for one suitcase per person up to 23kg (50 lbs), plus one carry-on bag. Please let us know in advance if you plan to travel with additional luggage so we can assign a larger vehicle for the transfer. Please note that an additional charge may apply for this change.
Overnight: Hotel Poblado Plaza
Note: The suggested service charge is not included in the rate (charged at check-out).
The Hotel Poblado Plaza is an invitation to enjoy leisure and business in a natural, relaxed, and calm way in one of the best areas of Medellín. Modern and classic in style, the rooms offered by the Hotel Poblado Plaza perfectly combine exclusive details of comfort with functional furniture and services, ideal for business trips and executive meetings on the Golden Mile of Medellín. In addition, you can savour the best of international cuisine with local touches at the legendary La Terraza Restaurant next to the hotel

Day 2: Hotel Poblado Plaza, Medellin
Graffiti Experience
Private service with a Spanish-speaking driver and guide in Spanish or English or French or Italian, or German. The city of Medellín boasts a diverse array of urban art, a result of its remarkable transformation over the past two decades. Today, the city is brimming with numerous expressions of street art, so much so that local authorities have recognized urban art as a cultural hallmark of Medellín. Graffiti serves not only as a form of artistic and cultural expression but also as a means of political communication.
Explore the graffiti of Comuna 13 alongside local artists who provide guided insights into the history and daily life of the area, highlighting the significance of street art in social communication and identity.
Notes: Included a snack per person and a local guide in the Comuna 13. Duration: 4 to 5 hours.
Tejo Game
The Tejo game is probably one of the most authentic games in Colombian culture. The origin of Tejo is pre-Colombian the Colombian native indigenous used to play Tejo as a ritual long before the Spaniards arrival in the 16th century. Back in the days the natives played it with discs made of gold and competed according to the legend for the love of a woman. One had to throw a golden disc as close as possible into a golden ring located at a certain distance. As it is the game with the longest tradition in Colombia it has become a national sport nowadays. The Tejo game today includes gunpowder and usually a lot of beer and the modern discs (tejo) are made of metal. The ring is in a corner filled with clay and the ring is decorated with papers filled with gunpowder this makes it the most explosive and funny game in Colombia. This tour is a perfect way to get closer to Colombian culture while drinking a few beers and having a lot of fun.
Notes: Duration: 2 hours plus transfers. Includes one drink per person.
Activities
Medellin Graffiti Experience
Each artwork on the walls tells an important story related to the artist.
Comuna 13
Once referred to as one of the most dangerous areas in Medelln, Colombia, Comuna 13 is now one of the most vibrant communes in the city. Throughout the 80s and 90s, the area was a hot spot for drug trafficking, as well as a stronghold for many gangs. Several community projects and a controversial raid on the area helped turn this area into a colourful and bright district. Visitors can use the escalators to explore the hillside commune and view the various street art.

Day 3: Hotel Poblado Plaza, Medellin
Coffee Express Experience Envigado
Private service with Spanish-speaking driver and guide in Spanish or English or French or Italian or German.
Experience the Colombian coffee culture on a traditional coffee farm located in the hills of Medelln. Get an insight into the daily life of a Colombian coffee farmer. Stroll through the coffee plantations and learn about the entire coffee process from the plant to the cup! Be impressed by how close to the vibrant mega city of Medelln Colombian country life starts.
Notes: The farm is in Envigado. Duration: 4 hours.
Fondas Tour
One of the most traditional nightlife experiences in the valley of Medelln is a visit of the Fondas local bars with exotic decoration and typical Colombian music, located in the suburbs of the city. The decoration of common artefacts, traditional appliances, paintings and religious icons reflects the cultural heritage of the so-called Paisa Culture. Back in the days the Fondas were traditional shops throughout the Andean mountains around Medelln where the farmer stopped to take a break with their mules and horses to enjoy the typical Aguardiente liquor. Nowadays the Fonda is a very popular place for entertainment of the locals. This tour takes you to several local Fondas where you try traditional food and drinks while listening to typical Colombian music.
Notes: Includes tasting of drinks and snacks. Recommended on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (evening hours). Duration: 4 hours.

Day 4: Hotel Poblado Plaza, Medellin
Guatap & Piedra del Peol
Private service with Spanish-speaking driver and English, German, Italian or French-speaking tour guide. The Peol Boulder is one of the most spectacular destinations in the surrounding area of Medelln. The 200- meter-high monolith can be climbed with a staircase of 740 steps. Enjoy breathtaking views over the stunning surroundings full of green mountains and blue lakes.
The village of Guatap is famous for its church and its beautiful, colourful paintings that decorate the houses of the village. On this day trip we will take you on a scenic drive through the Eastern Highlands of Antioquia. You can climb the Peol Boulder, enjoy a delicious typical Colombian lunch on the waterfront of the Guatap reservoir, explore the lake on a boat ride and take time to stroll and relax.
Note: Typical lunch is included with a set menu. All entrance fees are included. Duration: 10 hours.
Activities
Guatape
Piedra Del Peol
Guatape
Walking the cobbled streets of Guatap in Colombias Antioquia district might have you believing youve stepped back in time. This picturesque village, surrounded by green hills and freshwater lakes, tells its own story by way of beautiful pastel-coloured paintings that adorn the lower half of most of the buildings. On weekends, the waterfront boardwalk bustles with local vendors selling art, food, and souvenirs. Boat trips are on offer, while adventure lovers can take a ride on the Cable Vuelo, a canopy zip-line over Guatap Lake, or climb El Peon, the massive monolithic structure for which the town is famous.
Piedra Del Peol
The Piedra Del Peol in the town of Guatape in Antioquia, Colombia is a stand-alone rock. Nature enthusiasts can climb to the top of the 200-metre hill by way of the unique stairway on the northern side. Visitors can view the shrine to the Virgin Mary which is halfway up the rock. The summit of the rock features an observation deck where visitors can enjoy panoramic views a convenience store and a seating area. Facilities at the base of the rock feature various food vendors and shopping stalls.

Day 5: Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton, Cartagena
Flight from Medellín José María Córdova Airport to Cartagena Rafael Núñez Airport
Private transfer hotel in Medelln to international airport + guide & Private transfer International Airport in Cartagena to Hotel
Private transportation with Spanish-speaking driver and guide service in Spanish, English, Portuguese, French, or German.
Our guide will meet you at the lobby of the hotel and will take you to the International Airport Jose Maria Cordova in Medellin, We will assist you at the airport during the check-in at the airline counter to help you connect to your next destination.
Domestic Flight Medelln - Cartagena (Not Included)
Upon arrival at the International Airport Rafael Nuez in Cartagena, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Our guide will assist you with the check-in process at the hotel and provide you with a detailed itinerary of all the services included in your trip. Additionally, you will receive our office contact information, including the 24-hour emergency number.
Cartagena
With its breathtaking colonial architecture, horse-drawn carriages and narrow cobbled streets, the city of Cartagena de Indias is one of the most exciting destinations in Colombia. This Caribbean colonial jewel was the first Spanish colony on the South American mainland and one of the main ports for the Spanish fleet which turned the city into an important center of trade in the 16th century. It is a city full of history which has been an inspiration for artists, writers, historians and musicians.
Getseman Night Tour
Private service with Spanish-speaking driver and guide in Spanish or English or French.Let the tropical rhythms of the Caribbean and the vitality of one of Cartagena's most authentic neighborhoods capture your senses. We are talking, of course, about Getseman, once a forbidden area, today, the must-see and must-enjoy place! Here, folk art, music and joie de vivre live on every corner and today's activity will take us to the main sights, stopping at iconic places, full of character and favored by the locals, for a little music and a drink or two.
Note: Duration: 4 hours.
Overnight: Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton
Note:The suggested service charge is not included in the rate (charged at check-out).Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton is housed in a restored historic landmark off Route 90A in the historic centre of Cartagena, Colombia.Guests can also enjoy snacks and cocktails by the pool and city views from the terrace bar.
Activities
Getsemani is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood located just outside the historic center of Cartagena, Colombia. Known for its bohemian atmosphere and colorful streets, Getsemani is unique for its blend of historical significance and contemporary culture. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local scene at Plaza Trinidad, the heart of the neighborhood, where the communitys spirit comes alive with street performances, art displays, and lively music. The areas street art and murals tell stories of its past and present, making it a perfect place for those looking to experience the authentic side of Cartagena. With a variety of charming hotels, delicious local cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere, Getsemani offers a best-of-both-worlds vibe thats both captivating and culturally rich.

Day 6: Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton, Cartagena
Colonial Tour
Private service with Spanish-speaking driver and guide service in Spanish, English, French, German or Portuguese.
The tour begins with a visit to the Popa Convent located on the highest hill of the city. From there you will enjoy the best view of Cartagena. This convent was built in the 17th century by the Augustinian monks. Initially a small wooden chapel was built, but years later it was demolished and replaced by a chapel of lime and stone.
Continue with a visit to the Castle of San Felipe de Barajas. This castle was built by the Spanish in the 17th century and is considered the largest fortification built in a Spanish colony. Located on top of the hill of San Lazaro, the castle was intended to protect and guard the city of Cartagena from any attack or invasion.
This fort was built with a complex network of tunnels connected to different strategic points to facilitate communications, the distribution of supplies and a possible evacuation by serving as escape routes. Additionally, the tunnels were constructed in such a way that from inside you could hear any sound, even the slightest noise of enemies approaching the castle.
Then enjoy a walk through Las Bvedas. A set of 23 vaults built at the end of the 18th century and are considered the last colonial project carried out in the walled city for military use. The vaults were used by the Spaniards as a depot for ammunition and provisions but were later used as prisons. Nowadays, there is a group of stores selling handicrafts, antiques, jewelry, clothing, bars and galleries, among others.
At the end of the excursion, enjoy a walk through the historic center of the city. Discover the beautiful Spanish architecture and history hidden among the colonial streets of Cartagena. You will have the opportunity to appreciate the old houses with their balconies full of exotic flowers as well as the different plazas and small squares found there. You will learn more about the culture and architecture of the city as you walk through the narrow cobblestone streets, each with a different story to tell. This is the perfect opportunity to admire a city full of life and magic through its inhabitants.
Notes: Please remember that, when visiting the churches, monasteries and sanctuaries, women and men should not wear shorts and in the specific case of women it is recommended not to wear miniskirts. 4 hours duration, all entrance fees are included.
Chiva Shared Tour
After picking up passengers at the designated meeting points in the Centro and Bocagrande areas, the tour begins along Avenida Primera and Avenida Luis Carlos Lpez, passing notable landmarks such as the Convention Center.
The first stop is at the famous "Old Shoes" monument, followed by a panoramic view of San Felipe de Barajas Castle. The journey then continues toward the Crespo and Marbella areas, with a brief stop at the citys iconic letters for approximately 15 minutes, weather permitting.
The tour concludes at the original meeting point, providing a full circle of Cartagena's vibrant sights. Throughout the journey, the chiva is accompanied by an entertainer, with lively crossover music enhancing the experience.
Activities
Convent of La Popa
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Las Bvedas
Convent of La Popa
Convent of La Popa is situated at the highest point of the city of Cartagena, Colombia. The convent dates back to 1609 and initially displayed a wooden chapel and the palm of the Popa. The convent was built due to the preaching of the Discalced Augustinian friar Vicente Mallol. This convent was originally called Santa Cruz but was given the name Convent of La Popa after it took the shape of a galley.
Castle San Felipe de Barajas
The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a historic fortress located in Cartagena, Colombia, perched atop the Hill of San Lzaro. Built in 1639 during the Spanish colonial era, it is renowned as one of the greatest military fortifications constructed by the Spaniards. Visitors can explore its maze-like corridors, climb its massive stone walls, and take in panoramic views of Cartagena. The fortress also offers guided tours that delve into its fascinating history, including its role in defending the city from invasions.
Las Bvedas
Located in the city of Cartagena, Colombia, Las Bvedas are dungeons built in the middle of the two forts, Santa Catalina and Santa Clara. Today the bombproof cells in the dungeons are used to house numerous vendors and businesses who sell authentic Colombian goods. The structure of the dungeons is high enough for visitors to be able to gaze upon the Caribbean Sea.

Day 7: Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton, Cartagena
Mangroves and Caribbean Rhythms Drumming Experience
Private service with Spanish-speaking driver and guide in Spanish or English or French.
The tour begins with a visit to La Boquilla, an old fishing village located twenty minutes north of the city. This community was a slave colony and has been home to many Afro-Colombian residents.
Once you arrive, you will find yourself on a stretch of beach located on a narrow peninsula surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Cinaga de la Virgen, a large lake and mangrove swamp, on the other. You will board a traditional wooden canoe led by a native person and navigate through the mangrove tunnels where you will observe the fauna and flora that inhabit this unique ecosystem.
After this visit, young people from the drum school will make you live an immersion experience of drums and traditional rhythms of the Colombian Caribbean Coast, actively participating in the workshop to play drums such as the Alegre, the Llamador, the Tambora to the rhythm of bagpipes and maracas, to interpret traditional airs as: La Cumbia, El Bullerengue, El Mapal, La Champeta and many more.
Notes: The tour starts at 9 am. Approximately 3 hours duration + transfer time.
Rum & Chocolate Tasting (Arsenal)
Private service with Spanish speaking guide and private sommelier in Spanish or English. The Arsenal was created by Chef Abraham Dau for people who wish to live pleasurable sensory experiences, such as tasting and knowing a good liquor, a good cocktail and a dish served, all this accompanied by excellent service making people feel at home.
The tasting consists of pairing varieties of rums from our own Colombian culture with chocolates from our land. Colombian artisan rums are catalogued as the best in the world. When tasting our rums we use our sensory senses and distinguish the various notes of caramel, vanilla and coffee.
We will know our chocolate, which is categorized as one of the best in the world, because when you taste a piece, you will taste the exquisite pleasure and variety of cocoa from the coast of Cartagena to the Amazon jungle, however, always being the rum, the protagonist of this experience.
You will be attended by our mixologist Abraham Dau categorized as one of the 5 bests in Colombia. In our tasting you will live a wonderful and recreational experience.
Notes: Includes 8 types of 100% Colombian rum and 1 mini welcome cocktail. Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of duration + transfer time.
Experience only for people over 18 years old.
Activities
La Boquilla
El Arsenal The Rum Box
La Boquilla is a fishing town with Afro-Caribbean roots located at the northernmost point of Cartagena, a city that for decades has been admired around the world for its architecture and colonial engineering.
El Arsenal The Rum Box
Located on Calle del Arsenal in Getsemani, El Arsenal The Rum Box is a bar situated in front of the Convention Centre. Created by chef Abraham Dau, the bar specialises in Colombian rum, which can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Visitors can enjoy tastings and learn about the differences between various rums. Tasters are paired with speciality Colombian chocolates, which provide an opportunity to explore the interplay between the flavours of both.

Day 8: Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton, Cartagena
Day Tour atIsla del Encanto
Private service with a Spanish-speaking driver and guide service in Spanish or English or French for the hotel-port-hotel transfer. Regular or shared speedboat service for the transfer from the pier to Isla del Encanto and back, this service is provided by Hotel Isla del Encanto.
It's time to leave the walls of Cartagena and experience the beauty of one of the many islands located in Islas del Rosario: Isla Grande The Rosario Islands are located about 45 kilometers away from the city. This archipelago, formed by coral reefs with small white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters invites us to appreciate the diversity of marine life found there. The small islands have been protected by the authorities since 1977, when they were declared a National Natural Park and are home to more than 1,300 species of fauna and flora in different ecosystems.
The day begins at your hotel where you will be picked up and transferred to the port. The boat is scheduled to depart at 9:00 a.m., but we must be at the port from 8:00 a.m. and the trip to the island takes approximately 60 minutes. Upon arrival you will disembark and have time to explore the island or just relax. You can sit on the small beaches and relax, enjoy a stroll around the island, sign up for a diving course to explore the coral reefs, swim or take a relaxing massage session. The hotel has a beachfront bar where you can buy snacks, snacks and refreshments during the day. You will be returning to Cartagena between 4:00 and 4:30 pm.
The excursion includes lunch with a set menu.
NOTES: The Isla del Encanto excursion rate includes shared boat transfer, towel service (one per person), and typical lunch with set menu. All additional activities such as snorkeling, diving course, ecological walks, bike rides, massages, etc. must be requested and paid directly in cash at the island.
This service does not include guide assistance; only the hotel staff is available on the island.
Departure time from the island is scheduled between 3:00 and 03:30 p.m., depending on tide, swell and weather conditions. Approximate time to enjoy the island: 5 hours.
Occasionally, passengers may be sprayed or splashed by the water due to wind conditions and high waves during the boat transfer.
Please note that pregnant women and pets are not allowed on board the boat. Activities
Rosario Islands
Hotel Isla del Encanto
Rosario Islands
Located just off the coast of Colombia, 35 kilometres from the historical city of Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are a small archipelago made up of 27 tiny picturesque islands, all of which are part of a national park, the PNN Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo. Home to glistening, crystal-clear waters and abundant offshore coral reefs, these islands are most famously known for their world-class snorkelling and miles of unspoiled beaches. These islands are renowned for their glistening, crystal-clear waters and abundant offshore coral reefs. Alongside endless opportunities to relax, the islands offer private boat hire for travellers who want to spend the day on and in the glittering waters, enjoy an exclusive night of luxury on Isla Coralina, and visit the secluded secret
Chiringuito Beach on the island of Tierra Bomba.
Hotel Isla del Encanto
Hotel Isla del Encanto sits beside the pristine shores of Bar, surrounded by mangroves, fruit trees and the natural beauty of the Corales del Rosario National Park. Rooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, and private terraces that open onto tropical gardens or sea views. Guests can dine at Don Juancho, where Caribbean flavours meet oceanfront scenery, or enjoy daily buffets at La Mar. Nearby, visitors can explore coral reefs, take boat excursions, or wander the historic streets of Cartagena. On-site leisure includes a spa, beach access, and water sports, offering a tranquil retreat amid lush coastal surroundings.

Day 9: Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton, Cartagena
Day at Leisure

Day 10: Departure
Private transfer hotel to international airport + guide
Private transportation with Spanish-speaking driver and guide service in Spanish, English, Portuguese, French, or German.
Our guide will meet you at the lobby of the hotel and will take you to the International Airport Rafael Nuez in Cartagena, We will assist you at the airport during the check-in at the airline counter to help you connect to your next destination.
NOTE: Our transfer fee includes transportation of one bag per person of up to 23kg (50 lbs) plus one carry-on. If you plan to travel with additional luggage please let us know in advance in order to assign a different vehicle capacity for the transfer. Please keep in mind that additional costs may be charged.

What is included in the offer
• International & domestic flights with 23kg baggage
• 4 nights stay at Hotel Poblado Plaza with bed & breakfast
• Graffiti Experience & Tejo Game
• Coffee Express Experience, Fondas Tour & Guatapé with Piedra del Peñol
• 5 nights stay at Nacar Hotel Cartagena with bed & breakfast
• Getsemaní Night Tour, Colonial Tour & Full-Day Tour to Isla del Encanto
• Chiva Shared Tour & Rum and Chocolate Tasting
• Mangroves and Caribbean Rhythms Drumming Experience
• Private transfers throughout

Prices & Departures
Deposit £500pp
• a84112 Manchester from £4555pp
• a84131 Birmingham from £4555pp
• a84123/17 Edinburgh / Glasgow from £4589pp
• a77367 Heathrow from £4619pp
• a84136 Dublin from £4805pp

Terms & Conditions
Based on 2 adults sharing

Meal Plans