13 excellent and different guided tours in Colombia. Tours with variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, 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 variety of attractions, from stunning beaches to vibrant cities and spectacular mountain scenery, Colombia offers a unique experience for travelers.
The city of Cartagena is one of the jewels of Colombia, with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and a magical atmosphere. Visitors can explore the ancient city, with its historic forts such as the Castle of San Felipe de Barajas, 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 the Botero Museum are home to some of the most impressive collections in the country, while the historic La Candelaria district offers a glimpse into Colombian colonial history.
Colombia is also known for its stunning natural beauty. Tayrona Natural National Park is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, lush forests and exciting trails. The Cocora Valley, in the Andinas mountains, is famous for its giant wax palm trees and breathtaking landscapes.
For lovers of culture, the Carnival of Barranquilla is a must-see event, with folk dances, songs and dazzling costumes. Colombian gastronomy is also an attraction in itself, with dishes such as the country tray and arepa conquering the palates of travelers.
In addition, 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 exploring the central theme of this article, it is relevant to highlight some of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia to help in the search for excursions, itineraries and tours that fit your preferences.
As mentioned before, Colombia is a fascinating country. Below is a list of the top 10 tourist attractions and cities worth visiting in Colombia:
- Cartagena de Indias: This historic seaside town is famous for its cobblestone streets, colonial fortifications and charming architecture. Explore the historic center, visiting the San Felipe Castle and the city walls;
- Bogotá: The Colombian capital is a vibrant cultural center with impressive museums such as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum. Be sure to climb to Cerro de Monserrate for a panoramic view of the city;
- Medellín: Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Medellin is famous for its urban transformation and metrocable that takes visitors to mountainous areas. The Botanical Garden and the Arvi Park are popular destinations;
- Tayrona Natural National Park: Located on the Caribbean coast, this national park is a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, lush forests and incredible biodiversity. It is perfect for hiking and relaxation by the sea;
- Cocora Valley: In the Andean mountains, you will find the Cocora valley, famous for its giant wax palm trees and spectacular landscapes. It is a great place for hiking;
- San Agustín: This area is an archaeological treasure, with hundreds of statues and ancient stone sculptures scattered across the field. The San Agustín Archaeological Park is a key attraction;
- Coffee Valley: This is the heart of Colombian coffee production. You can visit coffee farms, learn about the production process and taste the fresh coffee;
- Located in the Colombian Caribbean, this island is famous for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and opportunities for diving and snorkeling;
- Villa de Leyva: A charming colonial town with a huge main square and paved with stones, is a quiet place to explore old churches and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere;
- Tatacoa Desert: Despite its name, it is not a true desert, but rather a semiarid region with lunar landscapes. It is great for stargazing and hiking.
Is it better to travel independently or on group tours in Colombia?
Regardless of the option you choose to travel in Colombia, either independently or on a group tour, each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Choosing an independent trip, 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 the activities, allowing you to explore Colombia at your own pace. In addition, this option may be more economical, as you can control spending according to your choices.
However, an independent trip requires detailed planning, with research on accommodation, transportation and activities. It is necessary to be prepared to deal with possible challenges, such as the language barrier, and take additional precautions against 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. In addition, traveling in a group can provide a sense of security, especially if you are accompanied by an experienced guide who knows Colombia well.
However, this option can somewhat limit your freedom to explore Colombia independently, as you will be following a predetermined itinerary and schedules set by the group.
In short, the choice between traveling independently or in groups 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.
| Positives of traveling on a group tour | Positives Traveling on your own |
| Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests | Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities |
| Lively in a quieter and fun group | Autonomy to follow your own schedule |
| More security when walking in a group, especially with an experienced local guide | Freedom to explore Iceland without having to follow a schedule |
| Less need for planning and research, as the tour already offers accommodation, transportation and activities | Potential savings, since depending on the choices may be cheaper |
| Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to achieve alone | Greater challenge and possibility to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting the journey itself |
13 Best Excursions & Itineraries to Explore Colombia
Top Tours & Itineraries in Colombia for Small Group Guide Adventures
1. G Adventures – Colombia Express (9 Days)
Where to go if you have only one 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, regions of cafe and metropolitan cities of this rising country, think again, this tour is possible.
Discover the resurgence of culture, art and gastronomy in Bogota and Medellín, dive into 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 a unique experience anywhere else on the planet.
Imagine picturesque beaches, bustling towns and the coolest coffee you’ve ever tasted. And you are just scratching the surface of what is reserved for you on this 22-day trip.
Explore the resurgence of culture, art and gastronomy in Bogota and Medellín, dive deep into the Caribbean vibe of Cartagena, get to know the indigenous culture of the Wiwa Gotshezhy people, reconnect with nature in Minca and make a trail to the ancient Ciudad Perdida, known for the sites 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 that there are more untouched parts of this beautiful country for you to explore.
If you have two weeks, there is no better way to experience Colombia than to dive in with your head and try the national parks, beaches, rural communities and cities first-hand.
In addition, there is no better place to try delicacies such as fresh seafood on the beaches of Cartagena and delicious coffee from the Calarcá region. Be part of the revitalization of this warm and welcoming country and come back with more stories than you will ever have time to tell.
4. Intrepid – Explore Colombia (10 Days)
Let yourself be enchanted by the colonial center of Bogota, enjoy the Caribbean beaches surrounded by palm trees and get to know the places that make Colombia one of the friendliest countries in the world in this 10-day South American adventure.
While the Tayrona National Park and the Guachaca region offer stunning trails, away natural pools and fine sandy beaches nestled in the lush jungle, charming towns like Barichara are a dream to explore, and the adrenaline of San Gil is just steps away. For a trip out of the ordinary full of rhythm, music, color and life, Explore Colombia is among the best options.
5. Intrepid – Best of Colombia (17 Days)
Uncover the best kept secret in South America in this 17-day adventure through Colombia’s lush green mountains and fine sand beaches. Among the serene highlands of the famous coffee region of Colombia and discover the sweeter and softer side of this country often misunderstood.
Fall in love with the colonial heart of Bogota, enjoy the Caribbean beaches surrounded by palm trees and live with the places that redefine hospitality.
6. Intrepid – Premium Colombia (11 Days)
Explore the fascinating history, warm hospitality and rich culture of Colombia on an 11-day group tour from Bogota to Cartagena.
Get to know the culture and heritage of Colombia in several gastronomic excursions, float by a river compared to the powerful Amazon, enjoy a scenic trip through the Highlands of the East Antioquia and learn to roast your own beans in the lush surroundings of the coffee region of Colombia.
With exclusive lodgings in hotels installed in historic mansions and an expert leader with expert local guides to show the way, this tour promises to be the trip of a lifetime.
Best excursions and itineraries in Colombia for groups of young singles (18 to 35 years)
7. Contiki – Hola Colombia (12 Days)Want to explore all the colors of Colombia? From bustling cities to charming towns in coffee plantations, charming cobblestone getaways and paradisiacal beaches, this 12-day trip offers the best of this vibrant country. Whether relaxing in your hacienda in the “coffee area”, touring the Caribbean coast of Cartagena or enjoying the natural beauty in the Tayrona National Park, there is no better way to explore Colombia in all its splendor. Welcome the adventure of a lifetime. Top luxury excursions and itineraries and comfort in Colombia for small-group groups with guides
8. Trafalgar – Best of Colombia (10 Days) Travel through Colombia, from vibrant Bogota to Medellín, passing through historic Cartagena and the celebrated Colombian Coffee Triangle. It won’t take long for you to be dancing to the Afro-Colombian rhythm on this unforgettable South American trip, full of exclusive experiences that will delight food lovers, culture connoisseurs and history enthusiasts. Best tours for Colombia from the Tourradar (best site to search and compare excursions in Colombia of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)
9.Flights from Cartagena to Bogota (12 Days) Start in Cartagena and finish 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 finish in Bogota! With the tour you have an 8-day tour package that will take you through Bogotá and Santa Marta, Colombia. Includes accommodation, flights, expert guide, dining, transportation and more.
11. Tourradar – Colombian Cultural and Natural Immersion (13 Days) Start and finish in Bogota! With the Cultural and Natural Immersion tour in Colombia, you have a 13-day tour package that will take you through Bogota and 11 other destinations in Colombia. The tour includes hotel accommodation, flights, an expert guide, insurance, meals and transportation.
12. Tourradar – Complete Colombian Adventure (29 Days) Start in Bogotá and finish in Santa Marta! With the exploration tour you have a 29-day tour package that will take you through Bogota and 15 other destinations in Colombia. The tour is for people over 50 and includes hotel accommodation, flights, an expert guide, meals, transportation and much more.
13. Tourradar – Ultimate Colombia Experience (23 Days) Start in Bogota and finish in Cartagena! With the active tour you have a 23-day tour package that will take you through Bogota, Colombia, and 15 other destinations in the country. The experience includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals and transportation.
Concluding Colombia is a truly captivating destination for those who wish to explore cultural, historical and adventure experiences. With a wide range of tour options and excursions available, it is essential to carry out a detailed search before choosing the company that best suits your needs and expectations.
Evaluating the reviews of 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 unique experience in life. So be prepared for a memorable journey and embark on this amazing adventure through the country!
