Last Updated on February 23, 2024 by Talita

13 excellent and different guided tours around Colombia. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, level of luxury, and adventure.

Colombia is a South American country rich in culture, history and natural beauty, making it an increasingly popular tourist destination. With a wide range of attractions, from stunning beaches to vibrant cities and spectacular mountain landscapes, Colombia offers a unique experience for travelers.

The city of Cartagena is one of Colombia’s jewels, with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and magical atmosphere. Visitors can explore the old town with its historic forts such as San Felipe de Barajas Castle, or relax on the white sandy beaches of Bocagrande.

Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is a cosmopolitan and culturally rich metropolis. The Gold Museum and Botero Museum house some of the country’s most impressive collections, while the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria offers a glimpse into Colombia’s colonial history.

Colombia is also known for its stunning natural beauty. Tayrona National Natural Park is a tropical paradise, with pristine beaches, lush forests and exciting trails. The Cocora Valley in the Andean mountains is famous for its giant wax palm trees and breathtaking landscapes.

For culture lovers, the Barranquilla Carnival is an unmissable event, with folk dances, music and stunning costumes. Colombian gastronomy is also an attraction in itself, with dishes such as tray paisa and arepa conquering the taste buds of travelers.

Additionally, Colombia is becoming a popular destination for adventure tourism, with hiking, rafting and cycling opportunities in its natural landscapes.

 

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Colombia

Before we delve into the central theme of this article, it is relevant to highlight some of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia to aid in the search for excursions, itineraries, and tours that suit your preferences.

As mentioned earlier, Colombia is a fascinating country. Below, we present a list of the top 10 attractions and tourist cities that are worth visiting in Colombia:

1. Cartagena: This historic seaside city is famous for its cobbled streets, colonial fortifications, and charming architecture. Explore the historic center, visit the San Felipe Castle, and the city walls.
2. Bogotá: The Colombian capital is a vibrant cultural hub, with impressive museums such as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum. Be sure to climb Cerro de Monserrate for a panoramic view of the city.
3. Medellín: Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Medellín is famous for its urban transformation and the metrocable that takes visitors to mountainous areas. The Botanical Garden and Arvi Park are popular destinations.
4. Tayrona National Natural Park: Located on the Caribbean coast, this national park is a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches, lush forests, and incredible biodiversity. It’s perfect for hiking and seaside relaxation.
5. Cocora Valley: In the Andean mountains, you’ll find the Cocora Valley, famous for its giant wax palms and spectacular landscapes. It’s a great place for hiking.
6. San Agustín: This area is an archaeological treasure, with hundreds of ancient stone statues and sculptures scattered across the countryside. The San Agustín Archaeological Park is a key attraction.
7. Coffee Triangle: This is the heart of Colombian coffee production. You can visit coffee farms, learn about the production process, and taste fresh coffee.
8. San Andrés Island: Located in the Colombian Caribbean, this island is famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
9. Villa de Leyva: A charming colonial town with a huge stone-paved main square, it’s a tranquil place to explore old churches and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
10. Tatacoa Desert: Despite its name, it’s not a true desert but rather a semi-arid region with lunar landscapes. It’s great for stargazing and hiking.

 

Is it better to travel independently or in group tours in Colombia?

Regardless of the option you choose to travel in Colombia, whether independently or in a group tour, each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Opting for independent travel, for example, offers greater flexibility to plan your own itinerary and select activities according to your preferences. You will have the freedom to decide when and how to carry out activities, allowing you to explore Colombia at your own pace. Additionally, this option can be more economical as you can control expenses according to your choices.

However, independent travel requires detailed planning, with research on accommodation, transportation, and activities. You need to be prepared to deal with potential challenges such as the language barrier and take additional precautions regarding safety, especially in more remote areas.

On the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers the company of other travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Additionally, traveling in a group can provide a sense of security, especially if you are accompanied by an experienced guide who is familiar with Colombia.

However, this option may somewhat limit your freedom to explore Colombia independently as you will be following a pre-determined itinerary and schedules set by the group.

In summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Colombia depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, budget, and comfort level when making your decision. Both options have their merits and can provide memorable experiences in a country as diverse and fascinating as Colombia.

 

Pros of traveling on a group tour	Pros of traveling on your own
Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests	Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities
Peaceful and fun group experience	Autonomy to follow your own schedule
More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide	Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule
Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities	Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper
Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone	Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip

 

 

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Colombia

Best Colombia Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small Group Adventures

 

   1. G Adventures – Colombia Express (9 Days)

Where to go if you only have a week to experience a truly unique region of the world? The answer: Colombia.

If you believe that a week is not enough to explore the beaches, coffee regions and metropolitan cities of this rising country, think again, on this tour it is possible.

Discover the resurgence of culture, art and gastronomy in Bogotá and Medellín, immerse yourself in the Caribbean vibe in Cartagena and enjoy the fusion of Latin-Caribbean flavors in the local cuisine. All this in just nine days. Start packing now.

 

 

   2. G Adventures – Colombian Culture, Caribbean & Lost City (22 Days)

Embracing nature in Colombia and the Caribbean is an experience unlike any other place on the planet.

Imagine picturesque beaches, bustling cities and the freshest coffee you’ve ever tasted. And you’re just scratching the surface of what’s in store for you on this 22-day trip.

Explore the resurgence of culture, art and gastronomy in Bogotá and Medellín, delve deep into the Caribbean vibe of Cartagena, experience the indigenous culture of the Wiwa people of Gotshezhy, reconnect with nature in Minca and hike to the ancient Ciudad Perdida, known by locals as Teyuna.

Colombia will transform you. All you have to do is allow it.

 

 

   3. G Adventures – Classic Colombia (16 Days) 

Colombia is often an underrated travel destination, which simply means there are more untouched parts of this beautiful country for you to explore.

If you have two weeks, there’s no better way to experience Colombia than diving in and experiencing the national parks, beaches, rural communities and cities firsthand.

Plus, there’s no better place to try delicacies like fresh seafood on Cartagena’s beaches and delicious coffee from the Calarcá region. Be part of the revitalization of this warm, welcoming country and return with more stories than you’ll ever have time to tell.

 

 

   4. Intrepid – Explore Colombia (10 Days)

Be enchanted by the colonial center of Bogotá, enjoy the palm-fringed Caribbean beaches and discover the sites that make Colombia one of the friendliest countries in the world on this 10-day South American adventure.

While Tayrona National Park and the Guachaca region offer stunning trails, out-of-the-way rock pools, and powder-sand beaches nestled in lush jungle, charming towns like Barichara are a dream to explore, and the adrenaline rush of San Gil is just a few steps away. For an unusual trip full of rhythm, music, color and life, Exploring Colombia is among the best options.

 

   5. Intrepid – Best of Colombia (17 Days) 

Uncover South America’s best-kept secret on this 17-day adventure through Colombia’s lush mountains and powder-sand beaches. Enter the serene highlands of Colombia’s famous coffee region and discover the sweeter, gentler side of this often misunderstood country.

Fall in love with the colonial heart of Bogotá, enjoy the palm-fringed Caribbean beaches and mingle with locals who redefine hospitality.

 

 

   6. Intrepid – Premium Colombia (11 Days) 

Explore Colombia’s fascinating history, warm hospitality and rich culture on an 11-day group tour from Bogotá to Cartagena.

Discover Colombia’s culture and heritage on various food tours, float down a river compared to the mighty Amazon, enjoy a scenic trip through the Antioquia Eastern Highlands, and learn to roast your own beans in the lush surroundings of Colombia’s coffee region.

With exclusive accommodation in hotels housed in historic mansions and an expert leader with specialized local guides to show the way, this tour promises to be the trip of a lifetime.

 

Best Colombia Tours and Itineraries for Young Singles Groups (Ages 18-35)

 

   7. Contiki – Hola Colombia (12 Days) 

Want to explore all the colors of Colombia? From bustling cities to charming coffee plantation towns, enchanting cobblestone hideaways and idyllic beaches, this 12-day trip offers the best of this vibrant country.

Whether relaxing in your hacienda in the “coffee zone”, touring Cartagena’s Caribbean coast or taking in the natural beauty in Tayrona National Park, there’s no better way to explore Colombia in all its splendor. Welcome the adventure of a lifetime.

 

 

Best Luxury and Comfort Tours and Itineraries in Colombia for Small Groups with Guides

 

   8. Trafalgar – Best of Colombia (10 Days)

Travel through Colombia, going from vibrant Bogotá to Medellín, via historic Cartagena and Colombia’s celebrated Coffee Triangle.

It won’t be long before you’re dancing to the Afro-Colombian rhythm on this unforgettable trip through South America, full of exclusive experiences that will delight food lovers, culture vultures and history enthusiasts.

 

 

Best tours to Colombia from Tourradar (best site to search and compare tours in Colombia of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)

 

   9. Tourradar – Cartagena to Bogota (12 Days)

Start in Cartagena and end in Bogotá! With this tour you have a 12-day tour package that will take you through Cartagena, Colombia, and 5 other destinations in the country. The tour includes an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.

 

 

   10. Tourradar – Hidden Colombia (8 Days) 

Start and end in Bogotá! With the tour you have an 8-day tour package that will take you through Bogotá and Santa Marta, Colombia. Includes accommodation, flights, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

 

 

   11. Tourradar – Colombian Cultural and Natural Immersion (13 Days)

Start and end in Bogotá! With the Cultural and Natural Immersion tour in Colombia, you have a 13-day tour package that will take you through Bogotá and 11 other destinations in Colombia. The tour includes hotel accommodation, flights, an expert guide, insurance, meals and transport.

 

 

   12. Tourradar – Complete Colombian Adventure (29 Days) 

Start in Bogotá and end in Santa Marta! With the exploration tour you have a 29-day tour package that will take you through Bogotá and 15 other destinations in Colombia. The tour is for people over 50 and includes hotel accommodation, flights, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

 

 

   13. Tourradar – Ultimate Colombia Experience (23 Days)

Start in Bogotá and end in Cartagena! With the active tour you have a 23-day tour package that will take you through Bogotá, Colombia, and 15 other destinations in the country. The experience includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals and transport.

 

 

Concluding…

Colombia is a truly captivating destination for those who want to explore cultural, historical and adventure experiences.

With a wide range of tour and excursion options available, it is essential to carry out detailed research before choosing the company that best suits your needs and expectations.

Evaluating reviews from other travelers and carefully examining the details of the accommodations offered plays a key role in ensuring a smooth and safe trip.

However, no matter which company you choose, one thing is certain: visiting Colombia provides a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. So be prepared for a memorable journey and embark on this incredible cross-country adventure!

 

Planning your next trip?

Then don’t forget travel insurance! You don’t want to get stuck paying a ton of money and ruining your trip if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Our page with The 3 Best and Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market can help you choose the right plan and will give you some discount coupons for the biggest insurance companies!

 

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.