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THE
COLoMBIA
trip
2024 Itinerary
For the love of
​COLOR
MOJITOS
RHYTHM
SOCIAL IMPACT
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STREET ART
TURQUOISE WATER
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LATIN AMERICA
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VIBRANCE
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MOUNTAIN VIEWS
COLOMBIA
WHAT TO EXPECT
Our small group trip to Colombia caters to travelers in their 20s and 30s searching for history in Cartagena's walled city, delicious fruity cocktails in the Rosario Islands, and ultra-hip coffee culture in Medellin.
Soak up the sun, rum, and sultry beats of homegrown tunes on this tropical escape. Mix in Cartagena's Old Town, throw in balmy Caribbean seas, and Medellin's mountains, and you'll understand why Colombia has become the go-to destination for travelers in the know.
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This is a country that's made a comeback like no other and is now known for friendly locals, fortressed walls, and street-art-infused neighborhoods high atop looming hillsides. It's one funky place sure to kick all your senses into overdrive.
Included
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8 nights accommodation in centrally-located hotel
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All accommodations in a shared room with one other person with the option to upgrade to a private room (limited availability)
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In-country transportation for included activities
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Flight from Cartagena to Medellin
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8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
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Cartagena cultural walking tour (including Castle visit)
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Volcano mud bath experience
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Social impact drumming experience
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Rum tasting
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Private boat trip to Rosario Islands
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Comuna 13 graffiti and culture tour
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Medellin cable car trip
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Day trip to Guatape town and Peñol rock
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Coffee farm visit
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Salsa lessons
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FTLO Trip Leader
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*All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
not included
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International flights (into Cartagena and out of Medellin)
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Mandatory trip insurance
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Meals not mentioned, not including alcohol (budget $200-$300)
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Transportation to/from airport for arrival and departure flights
day by day
*Itinerary is indicative and is subject to change
arrive
Day 1 - Cartagena
BienVENIDOS
After you get into Cartagena, head through the massive stone walls circling the old city toward the colorful homes and shops in the middle of town to check into our hotel.
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Unpack and unwind in Caribbean paradise before you meet up with your new travel crew. You'll get to know everyone as we roll out to a happy hour and your first Colombian sunset at one of our favorite spots in town.
After sampling the famous rum and grabbing a mojito or two, we'll head to dinner at a lively local restaurant that serves up fantastic fresh food and traditional Colombian dishes.
DANCE
Day 2 - Cartagena
CARTAGENA CULTuRE
After a good night's rest, we'll start the trip off with a full day of cultural immersion. First up: a walking tour of the historic old town, including an overview of important landmarks and events, as well as the best places to drink, shop, and find local food..
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We'll have a traditional lunch at a local hotspot in one of the area's palenques. From there, we'll visit a music school that helps children find purpose through music and mentoring. Enjoy a performance of the local beats before learning how to play a drum yourself!
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Last but not least, we'll head to the tiny Totumo Volcano for a one-of-a-kind experience that just may be the muddy highlight of your trip.
GET MUDDY
Day 3 - Islas del Rosario
LAS ISLAS
Catch up with the crew over breakfast, and then grab your hat and swimsuit—we've got a day of paradise in store. We'll hop in a private speed boat and cruise out over the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea toward the lush, tropical Islas Del Rosario.
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You'll have the chance to ogle Pablo Escobar's abandoned casino and even snorkel the coral reefs around one of his sunken airplanes! For lunch, we'll head to a secluded beach club where you can throw down a few more mojitos, play some volleyball, or kick back and relax in the sun.
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We'll take the boat back to Cartagena; freshen up at the hotel before finding your friends and wandering through the charming, colorful streets.
DIVE IN
Day 4 - Cartagena
rum & salsa
You have some free time to explore Cartagena on your own in the morning. Walk past the cannons along the fortress wall, pick up some delicious Colombian coffee, or check out the street art in hip and trendy Getsemani.
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Then, after a bit of independent exploration, it's time for some local culture. We're heading to one of the city's liveliest salsa spots so you can learn some moves from the locals. This is the salsa capital of the world, after all—it's important that you get in on the action.
In the evening, meet up with the crew for a Colombian rum tasting, where you'll get the lowdown on all aspects of the country's favorite liquor.
EXPLOrE
Day 5 - Cartagena
heart of medellin
In the morning, we'll catch a flight to Medellin, which has transformed into one of the coolest cities in Latin America (and the planet). ​
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After checking in and unpacking, we'll have dinner in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in town. Be prepared to try some local cuisine you've never heard of before!
*Domestic flight times change for each trip and will be confirmed 2 weeks before departure.
Day 6 - Medellin
for the love of coffee
​There's no better way to start the day than with a cup of joe or two. And no one makes a better cup of joe than the Colombians. We're heading to the hills in search of a caffeine fix.
Did you know that 95% of Colombian coffee is produced by family farms? You'll have the chance to visit one of these little operations firsthand and learn about a coffee-making process passed down through generations.
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In the afternoon, we'll head to colorful Comuna 13, once considered the most dangerous neighborhood in the city. Our amazing local guide will walk us through his community, explaining how art, music, and dance have revitalized the area. From there, we'll ride up Medellin's cable car for some absolutely breathtaking views.
LEARN
Day 7 - Guatape
COUNTRYSIDE VIEWS
Get ready for one action-packed day. Today, we'll get up early and head into the countryside to see a different side of Colombian life.
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We'll start with a reservoir boat ride where we'll have the chance to check out one of Pablo Escobar's abandoned houses (it was once bombed by a rival cartel).​
​After that, we'll stop for lunch in Colombia's most colorful town before heading to the zig-zagging staircase of the Rock of Guatapé. Hike 700 winding stairs to the top, and it'll all be worth it—the views are unreal!
SALUD
Day 8 - Medellin
Your Medellin
Today's free, so find the crew to soak up some final Colombian vibes.
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If you decide to roam through El Poblado, consider checking out some of the markets. You can find great local cuisine, international dishes, and street eats in Mercado del Rio or Mercado de l a Playa.
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That evening, we'll have a farewell group dinner to round out our Colombian adventure. Then, hit the streets for one last night out in Medellin. Ball pit, anyone?
Day 9 - Medellin
adios
Sadly, today is the last day in Colombia. Join your travel group for one last breakfast before heading to the airport.
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Flying out later? The hotel will happily store your bags until you leave.
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If you've got a few more days to explore, consider planning a trip to Tayrona National Park or hunting the lost city deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
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“What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.” ― Gabriel García Márquez
FAST FACTS
Just for fun
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Colombia has over 2,000 miles of coastline - AKA beach heaven!
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Colombia has been voted the happiest country in the world multiple times.
Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, after only Brazil, which is 10 times its size.
Trip notes
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While we can’t guarantee private rooms when we visit Colombia, you should book your trip earlier if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.
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Colombia is safe (and the tourism industry is booming here), but it's important to be mindful of your surroundings. Always have your purse/bag in front of you at all times and be extra careful in busy tourist areas.
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The sun can be very intense in Colombia, even on cloudy days. Be sure to apply sunscreen before heading out for the day!
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Cash is king in Colombia. Be sure to use to the ATM at the airport to withdraw some pesos!
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All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
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More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions can be found here.
About colombia
​Once marred by drug cartels, Colombia has undergone a remarkable evolution. Today, the nation embraces a fusion of indigenous heritage, Spanish legacy, and modern vigor. Along the Caribbean coast, Cartagena blends historical allure with a new-age skyline. The ancient charm of the 16th-century old town stands in contrast to the city's contemporary urban sprawl. Meanwhile, in Medellín, a lively art scene and vibrant nightlife define the city's magnetic pull. Galleries, theaters, and salsa clubs punctuate the landscape, embodying Colombia's rich cultural heritage.
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Good to Know
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​The national language is Spanish.
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The national currency is the Colombian peso.
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Tap water is okay to drink in Colombia.
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In restaurants and hotels, a 10% tip is generally included when you get the bill.
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The closest arrival airport is the Cartagena Rafael Núñez Airport (CTG).
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The closest departure airport is Medellin José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)
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Try to learn a few key words in Spanish before the trip. It'll come in handy!
Flights
Fly into Cartagena (CTG)
You'll need to be in Cartagena by 2pm on Day 1. We do recommend flying in earlier to have some time to explore the city on your own!
Fly out of Medellin (MDE)
Feel free to leave whenever you like on day 9.
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Want to check out flights for your trip?
Feel free to also set up flight alerts to Cartagena & from Medellin so you can grab the best deal!
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*FTLO is not responsible for any fees or costs related to flights. We strongly suggest that all travelers wait until they receive the official FTLO Greenlight Email to book flights. This will be sent 3-4 months prior to the start date of your trip.
Alumni Reviews
We know how much you'll love the Colombia trip...
but don't take our word for it! Check out some of our alumni reviews.
LEARN MORE
Interested in learning more about our Colombia trip?
We're here to answer any and all questions you might have! Leave us your information below and we'll be in touch with you as soon as possible.