9-Day Nature Adventure from Medellin to Cartagena

  1. Day 1: Parque Explora, Medellin
    15 minutes (4.3 miles) from Jose Maria Cordova International Airport

    Experience the interactive exhibits on science and technology, admire the butterfly garden, and catch an IMAX movie.

  2. Day 2: Cocora Valley, Salento
    5 hours (175 miles) from Parque Explora, Medellin

    Hike through the picturesque palm tree valley. Visit Salento village & try the local coffee.

  3. Day 3: Otun Quimbaya Wildlife Sanctuary, Pereira
    1 hour 30 minutes (44 miles) from Cocora Valley, Salento

    Spot a wide variety of bird species along the eco-trails and learn about the conservation efforts.

  4. Day 4: Los Nevados National Natural Park, Manizales
    2 hours 45 minutes (87.5 miles) from Otun Quimbaya Wildlife Sanctuary, Pereira

    Hike through the diverse terrain filled with glacial lakes, volcanoes, and forests.

  5. Day 5: Guatape, Antioquia
    3 hours 30 minutes (99 miles) from Los Nevados National Natural Park, Manizales

    Visit the colorful town, take a boat ride to see the mesmerizing rock formations and admire the views from the top of the El Penon de Guatape.

  6. Day 6-7: Tayrona National Natural Park, Santa Marta
    10 hours (424 miles) from Guatape, Antioquia

    Explore the stunning beaches, lush forests, and indigenous ruins. Camp or stay in a hostel within the park.

  7. Day 8: La Boquilla, Cartagena
    2 hours 30 minutes (89 miles) from Tayrona National Natural Park, Santa Marta

    Experience the Mangrove tour in a traditional canoe, learn about the Afro-Caribbean culture and sample fresh seafood.

  8. Day 9: Rosario Islands, Cartagena
    3 hours (30 miles) from La Boquilla, Cartagena

    Enjoy the white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse marine life on a snorkeling or diving tour.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Parque Explora (4 hours, COP 25,000)
  • Cocora Valley (3 hours, COP 20,000)
  • Otun Quimbaya Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours, COP 30,000)
  • Los Nevados National Natural Park (6 hours, COP 46,000)
  • Guatape (4 hours, COP 28,000)
  • Tayrona National Natural Park (2 days, COP 68,000 for entrance fee + camping)
  • La Boquilla (4 hours, COP 80,000 for tour + meal)
  • Rosario Islands (8 hours, COP 100,000 for tour + equipment rental)
  • Total Estimated Costs: COP 415,000 ($114 USD).

Useful Tips:

If you have extra time, consider visiting San Gil for adventure activities like rafting, paragliding, and caving. If you have less time, skip either Otun Quimbaya Wildlife Sanctuary or La Boquilla.

0