Jewels of the Caribbean

Duration 12 days
Price guide
From
  PP
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Colombia is such a varied destination and this 12-day trip lets you experience some of the country's most exceptional coastal regions. Spend your days exploring Tayrona National Parks's lush rainforest and wild ocean, Cartagena's enticing sultry smally-city atmosphere and finally, the idyllic Isla Barú, where you can snorkel or scuba dive, or simply relax and settle into island life on the soft sands among the swaying palms.

Trip highlights

  • Explore the beautiful walled city of Cartagena and uncover its military history
  • Enjoy the flavours of the Caribbean with a guided rum tasting
  • Drift down the river all the way to the ocean in the Tayrona Region
  • Visit the Tungueka indigenous community and learn about their traditions and beliefs
  • Head out to the Islas del Rosario off the coast of Cartagena on a private yacht

Our bespoke trips include

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Privately guided tours
  • Private transfers
  • Meticulously selected experiences
  • Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance
“Colombia 2024: Beautiful, Stress Free Trip‌”

I spent 9 days traveling solo in Colombia, specifically Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena. The trip was planned so thoughtfully and thoroughly, and they took into consideration all of my feedback and interests. From hotels to restaurants, to tours, everything exceeded my expectations. Lily and Berni were great to work with, and always available to discuss the details of the trip,…

Published 03rd April 2024 on Trustpilot
Sarah S
  • Days 1–4 Tayrona Region
  • Days 4–8 Cartagena
  • Days 8–12 Isla Barú
Jewels of the Caribbean
Price guide
  PP
  • Days 1–4 Tayrona Region
  • Days 4–8 Cartagena
  • Days 8–12 Isla Barú

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1–4

Three nights on the northern Caribbean coast

Spend your time here exploring the nature-rich Tayrona Region, spotting abundant birdlife on the river banks, seeking out archaeological sites amid the jungle or even floating down the wonderful Don Diego river on an inflatable rubber ring. For something really special, you can charter a private boat and head out to discover Tayrona’s secret bays. You’ll be in the company of your host and the yacht is kitted out with snorkelling equipment so you can dive right in and explore the crystal clear waters of bays such as Cinto, Chengue and Neguanje.

 

Discover the Tayrona Region

On the river

Cultural immersion

Don Diego river safari

Take a private transfer to the Don Diego river. After a 15-minute trek up a lush mountain, you will arrive at the river bank from where you will float down a crystalline river all the way down to the ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, howler monkeys and small caymans which are harmless and very shy.

Tungueka indigenous community

Today you will drive to the outskirts of the indigenous Tungeka community, where you will hike to the town used by Kogui families as a place of transit when transporting crops. Kogui families have successfully preserved their cultural traditions, culture, beliefs and share a respectful and trusting relationship with nature

Days 4–8

Four nights in the coastal city of Cartagena

Cartagena is Colombia’s coastal gem and its most romantic city. The warm Caribbean breeze gathers up sounds of salsa music and the scent of the flowers that cascade down from the balconies of the rainbow-coloured houses that line its cobbled streets. Steeped in history, Cartagena boasts impressive ramparts, forts and bastions as well as plenty of Spanish-style architecture. This is a city made for exploring: wind your way through the historic centre passing carts laden with juicy fruit and women selling coconut candies under the shade of the arches that ring the plazas. There are also fortifications to explore, museums to discover and lots of rooftops from which to sit and watch the world go by.

Discover Cartagena

History learning

Spirit tasting

Island hopping

A fortifications discovery

Your tour starts with a private transfer to Castillo de San Felipe fortress accompanied by a local history expert. You’ll explore dark tunnels and lookout points as they recount captivating stories and explain military strategy tactics used to defend Cartagena from pirates and invaders. Conclude the tour walking along the winding streets of Cartagena’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while listening to fascinating stories behind the iconic plazas, cathedrals, and colonial mansions.

 

Rum tasting

Enjoy a tasting experience in which your local rum expert will guide you through how rum is processed and aged, in order to recognise its unique characteristics.

Islas del Rosario

Aboard your speedboat and depart towards the Islas del Rosario archipelago, located 50 minutes from Cartagena. These rugged islands are blessed with clear blue waters, colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Spend the day cruising between islands, swimming, and snorkelling in the azure waters of these coralline islands.

Days 8–12

Beach life on Barú Island

Spend some time on Isla Barú, the largest island of the 120,000-hectare marine national park and archipelago of Nuestra Señora del Rosario. This island paradise has cultivated large coral reefs brimming with delicate ecosystems and unique sea life, and it’s the perfect way to round up a wonderful Caribbean adventure.

Discover Barú

Undwater

Birdlife

Scuba diving expedition

Alongside a local divermaste, navigate to the protected reef at the National Park of the Rosario Islands. As you explore the depths of the Caribbean Sea, witness the abundant marine life found around the reef.

 

Baru Island aviary

Today you will visit the aviary on Baru island, one of South America’s largest, home to more than 1,200 species. Have fun spotting toucans, flamingos, macaws, humming birds and more.

Why book with Jacada

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

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Positive Impact

We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.

Ariel view of waves breaking on a forested shoreline