Colombia
adventure extension
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P1 - Gentle walking over relatively flat terrain. A light day sack up to 4kg may be required to be carried. Suitable for those with minimal exercise experience.
Visit our Grading Information page for a full overview.
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T1 - No technical skills are needed. A good steady walking ability only is required.
Visit our Grading Information page for a full overview.
Overview
Date & Prices
Pics & Vids
Itinerary
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Kit List
FAQs
Overview
If you are wishing to explore more of this amazing country on a slower paced adventure after your incredible Lost City Trek, then here are a few plans you should consider which will guarantee four additional amazing days of Colombian adventure!
The itinerary has been planned on a B&B basis, and includes all accommodation, transfers, an amazing rum and chocolate pairing, canoeing in the mangroves and an exhilarating drum and dance workshop! This exciting itinerary is a loose schedule to showcase what is possible and is priced on demand.
That being said, we have now spent time making this plan so if you want some beach time and swimming, or diving in 30-degree waters then this adventure extension is certainly worth exploring OR even doing yourself on a self guided basis. We are here and ready to help!!
Find out more
Date & Prices
For private trips or bespoke itineraries inc. different dates, please contact the 360 office on 0207 1834 360.
A monthly payment plan is possible, please contact the office to chat through the options.
For private trips or bespoke itineraries inc. different dates, please contact the 360 office on 0207 1834 360.
A monthly payment plan is possible, please contact the office to chat through the options.
We currently have no scheduled dates for this expedition, however if you give the office a call on 0207 1834 360 it would be easy for us to get this up and running.
Please note that if 360 is booking your international flights, a supplement may be applicable
if the flight budget (as seen above) is exceeded.
Please note that if 360 is booking your international flights, a supplement may be applicable
if the flight budget (as seen above) is exceeded.
Included
- International airfares departing from London
- Local guides and a 360 guide (depending on group size)
- Airport transfers and all expedition transfers and bus journeys
- Park/conservation fees
- Rum tasting and chocolate workshop
- Dance and drum workshop
- Canoe hire and safety equipment
- All accommodation (based on twin occupancy) on a B&B basis
- Cotswold Outdoor discount
- Monthly payment plan, on request
Not Included
- Colombian visa (not required for UK nationals)
- Scuba diving costs
- Surf lessons & equipment hire
- Personal equipment and excess baggage
- Tips
- Personal travel insurance
- Items of a personal nature: phone calls, laundry, room service, etc.
- Alcoholic drinks, and snacks
- Lunches & dinners
- Any unforeseen increase in park fees
- Single supplement
- Airport transfers when not booking on with flights
- Any additional costs associated with leaving the expedition early including any airline surcharges as a result of changing return airline tickets
Please note that if international flights are booked, a supplement may be payable if costs exceed the flight budget.
Pics & Vids
Itinerary
DAY 1 : Cartagena: La Virgen & La Boquilla
We wake once again in the vibrant town of Cartagena.
Today we will make our way to a local fishing village to take part in a social drum, dance and music workshop where you have the chance to dance cumbia and champeta. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the locals, who are proud of this fascinating and colourful heritage.
When our feet are danced out, we then jump into our canoes and navigate the mangroves. The swamp of La Virgen is the largest lake in Cartagena, on one of it’s sides, to the north of the city we can find the small fishing village of La Boquilla. Here there is an extensive mangrove forest ecosystem that offers refuge to several species of birds and fish – a totally different side to Colombia to that which we have experienced over the last two weeks.
Tonight, we plan to have a memorable dinner in Cartagena alongside an evening of rum tasting, with a chocolate pairing workshop…a brilliant combination, and a fabulous way to bid adios to this spectacular place!
(B)
DAY 2 : Islas del Rosario
After breakfast, we make our way to the port and jump on a ferry that whisks us on an hours boat ride out to the Islas del Rosario, known for their coral reefs.
We will arrive in time for a full days diving (x2 dives). If you are not a diver, there are options for snorkelling or swimming and if neither of these take your fancy, Islas del Rosario is simply a wonderful island to explore, with stunning beaches to relax on and massages to have!
(B)
DAY 3 : Islas del Rosario
If you are a diver then you will love the diving here. It’s easy diving with no big fish but SO many fish and incredible hard coral. We were dubious before recceing this area but it has fast become one of our favourite dive places. The water is 30 degrees and the fish life bountiful.
The area is simply stunning and there are hundreds of tiny islands to get mesmerised by (often the islands only house one small property). It’s really quiet a remarkable place to will away time. You can hire small fishermen’s boats by the hour for wonderful little snorkelling tours and if it’s your thing you can take a quick visit to Pablo Escobar’s property!
(B)
DAY 4 : Depart Colombia
Spend the morning relaxing or shallow diving before your afternoon ferry back to Cartagena where its time to have an early supper before catching your flight back home. Generally, flights are overnight and you will arrive back the next day.
Your transfer to the airport for your flight home only takes 20 minutes so you’ll have plenty of time to continue exploring this fascinating city! On arrival back to Cartagena you can store you bags in the hotel making you luggage free for your final few hours.
(B)
If you wanted to explore Bogota now would be your chance! Chat to the 360 office for options on extending your stay with a pit stop in Bogata.
DAY 5 : Arrive UK
Today marks the end of our Colombian adventure. It is always hard to return to reality after such an adventure, but the memories and friends made will last a lifetime.
These are subject to minor changes depending on flight arrival and departure times, weather, group dynamics and fitness and so on, but the itinerary outlined provides an excellent indication of the trek and what you will experience.
Kit List
Bags & Packs
Rucksack
We would suggest a 40 to 50 litre capacity rucksack fitted with shoulder straps and, importantly, a waist belt. We would recommend your rucksack weighs no more than 8-10kg when fully packed (including your water bottles).
Waterproof rucksack cover
To protect rucksack from rain
Padlocks
For use on your kit bag for travel and on the expedition plus your hotel bag
Drybags
Nylon rolltop bags that keep fresh clothing and other important items like passports and iPods dry in the event of a total downpour that seeps into your kitbag. Good for quarantining old socks.
Please note that many countries are now banning plastic bags. We would always advise buying re-usable nylon rolltop bags for keeping your kit dry (and sustainability).
Sleeping Gear
Light summer silk liner
For nights spent in the refuge. The refuge will also provide blankets.
1-2 Season sleeping bag
You should get a sleeping bag with a rating of around 5C-10C. Choose a sleeping bag that functions within the comfort rating of this temperature.
A silk sleeping bag liner will enhance this rating on the coldest nights
Headwear
Wide brimmed hat
Keeps the sun off exposed areas like ears and the nape of the neck
Sunglasses
Category 4 minimum. Worth spending money on good UV filters. Julbo is our preferred supplier
Neck gaiter
Worn around the neck for warmth. Buff or scarf ideal – fleece can be a good option
Upper Body
T-shirts
A couple of T-shirts are advisable for this expedition as some of the days can be hot
Long sleeved T- shirt
Waterproof jacket
In case it rains
Fleece top/jacket or Softshell
Rain poncho
For jungle or rainforest downpours! Due to the heat this is often a preferable option over a more bulky waterproof jacket and trousers.
Lower Body
Trekking trousers
These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly after a shower and weigh little in your pack. Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs as an alternative to shorts
Shorts (optional)
Light weight shorts are advisable for this expedition as some of the days can be hot. Zip off trekking trousers are the most versatile. Consider buying this
Underwear
How many pairs you take is entirely up to you
Swimsuit
For showers in camp or the odd swim
Feet
3-4 season walking boots
Well worn in 3-4 season waterproof boots with mid to high ankle support
Trekking socks
Single layer or wearing 2 pairs is a personal choice and lighter weight merino wool is a good option
Gaiters (Optional)
To protect the tops of your footwear from harsh conditions and to provide some added insulation
Sandals
Walking sandals with a good grip are a good choice for river crossings and in camp.
Technical Equipment
Trekking poles
These tend to be a personal preference but help with your stability and can dampen the pressure on the knees coming down hill
Head torch
We recommend Petzl head torches. Bring spare batteries.
Toiletries
Sunblock
Buy the highest SPF you can find as UV intensifies with altitude
Lip salve
Sun cream will not work on your lips and they are very susceptible to burn without proper protection
Wash kit
Keep it simple on the mountain. Essentials are toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. Moisturiser is advisable, everything else is a luxury!
Nappy sacks
For waste and rubbish including toilet paper.
Wet wipes
Preferably biodegradable, these are great for washing when modern shower facilities become a thing of the past
Expedition towel
Towels from the likes of Lifesystems are perfect
Alcohol gel
A must have for good camp hygiene
Insect repellent
For early stages and once back down
Personal first aid kit
The 360 med kits are designed to be used in emergencies and akin to an A&E rather than a pharmacy on Expeditions so please come prepared with useful meds for yourself such as painkillers (Ibuprofen if you can take it and a Paracetamol) plus blister plasters, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets and any muscle rubs you wish to use.
Personal medication
Keep this in your daysack
Hydration
Water bottles/bladder
3L equivalent – Camelbaks are useful at lower altitudes but have a tendency to freeze up at higher altitudes without insulation tubes, Nalgene bottles are better at altitude. We suggest a combination of a 2L bladder and 1L bottle or 2 x ½L bottles to put in your jacket for summit night
Water purification
Although generally all water is boiled some prefer to double up and add purification tabs as well. Always good to have in your bag
Miscellaneous
Camera
Bring plenty of spare batteries and memory cards
Ear plugs
For protection against the inevitable snorers!
Penknife (optional)
Snacks
For when your energy levels flag and you need a pick me up
Entertainment
A book or other entertainment for evenings
Documentation
Passport
Don’t forget this! Your passport should have at least 6 months validity. With your passport expiry date at least six months after the final day of travel.
Copy of passport
Just in case
Money
Tips for local guides (tipping your 360 leader is optional) plus any extra cash for meals not included, or additional drinks, snacks or souvenirs on the trek. Please see the FAQs or for advice on additional spending money.
Travel insurance
Copy of own travel insurance details. And relevant contact numbers.
We have a partnership with True Traveller and would recommend that you contact them when looking for travel insurance for your trip with 360. However, it is vital that you ensure that the insurance cover they offer is suitable for you, taking your personal circumstances (items to be insured, cancellation cover, medical history) into account. Many other insurance providers are available and we do recommend that you shop around to get the best cover for you on the expedition you are undertaking.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip. To include medical evacuation and coverage up to the maximum altitude of this trip.
FAQs
Extension FAQS
Where can I find the full FAQs for the Colombia expedition?
The below FAQs relate just to our Colombia extension and the logistics of this trip – for full FAQs on Colombia, travel in the country, health and safety etc, we advise you read through the FAQs found under the main “Lost City” itinerary here.
Will the extension be guided?
Yes – although you have plenty of free time and opportunity to explore, you will either have a 36 guide or local chaperone for your safety and enjoyment and peace of mind!
What is included in the extension?
All accommodation is included, on a B&B basis. We have three nights in rustic, funky beach lodges, then two nights in a centrally-located, 4 star hotel in Cartagena.
All transfers are also included, plus a brilliantly fun rum and chocolate tasting session, as well as canoeing in the mangroves and an exhilarating drum, dance, and music workshop.
What is not included?
Lunches, dinners and snacks are not included. Of course, the amount will depend on how much you eat and drink, but on the coast you can eat for as little as £4 to £8 per meal, while in Cartagena dinners are a little pricier, around £10-12.
Scuba diving, surf lessons, surfboard hire and snorkelling equipment and guides are also not included.
Finance
What additional spending money will we need?
The amount of money you will need depends on how many presents you wish to buy or if you are buying additional drinks and snacks throughout. As a basic rule of thumb, 300,000 to 500,000 COP should be more than adequate for any post expedition spending, plus money for tips (see below).
Colombia is a relatively cheap place and, when indulging in the local custom of haggling, sounvenirs can be very good value for money. Your guide will be happy to point out the relative bargains and the suitable prices plus where to get the best value for money.
How much should I budget for meals?
It does depend on whether you have a sandwich versus a three course meal – but for lunch and dinner on the coast we would suggest you budget between £4 – £8 per meal. In Cartagena, similar for lunches, but budget £10 – £12 for dinner.
Alcohol and drinks vary, whether you go for local drinks or western.
How much are the additional optional activities?
As a rough guide to help you on your way:
- Surfboard hire for 2 hours is around £7 per person
- A private 2 hour surfing lesson is around £25
- 2 scuba dives with full equipment is approximately £90
Can I pay with credit card?
Though some of the dive and surf shops will accept card, it is better to have cash with you, so we would recommend taking out money in Santa Marta, or at the airport.
If I bring cash should I bring US dollars or Colombian pesos?
Pesos are better, as they are more widely accepted, but there are plenty of places where you can exchange your money.
Should we tip fisherman and our canoe guide in Cartagena?
Tipping is not expected however, if you think service has been excellent, it would be a much appreciated gesture and we very much encourage that you plan this into your budget. We would suggest 20,000 COP (~£4) per person for each guide.
Should we also tip our chaperone / guide for the extension?
Again, tipping is not expected but it would be very appreciated. We would suggest about 50,000 COP (~£8) per person.
Food & Water
I see lunches and dinners aren't included - why is this?
The variety of local restaurants and varying cuisine is huge – and in one restaurant, you can have everything from a beer and a sandwich to a full seafood buffet! We prefer to leave you with free reign to experience the culinary delights without restriction.
How often is fresh water available for replenishing during the day?
You are able to refill your bottles or purchase drinking water at breakfast, lunch and dinner. There will be plenty, so do refill when you need – it is important to stay well hydrated!
Should I bring a few snacks with me? What is best ?
Snacks are always a great idea, especially on any of the longer surfing or diving days, just to give you that additional boost. Nuts, trail mix or sweets are always good, or dried fruit or energy bars. We’d avoid chocolate, it is likely to melt!
Health & Safety
I see we are mainly based in the Santa Marta and Cartagena regions, what is the safety like here?
Please see the main FAQ on general safety in Colombia – we would, as with any travel destination, advise practicing basic safe travel procedures, but Santa Marta and Palomino are popular traveller’s destinations.
Is theft and/or violence a concern?
As with the questions above, keeping your belongings close to yourself when out and about should always be a priority, wherever you are travelling. Though petty crime is common in some areas of Colombia, the rate of unprovoked theft in the Santa Marta area is low, and if you practice sensible safety precautions there should be no issue.
What is the crime rate like in Cartagena?
When you are on the coast, we would advise sticking to the tourist-visited towns and main centre of Cartagena. As stated above, if you wish to explore further afield at any point, we would recommend you check ahead of time with your guide on which areas are best.
We have a few bus transfers on the itinerary - what are the roads like, and is there a risk of “hold ups”?
The transfers on the bus are run by our brilliant local team, or on well-known local public routes. Our usual hold up is because of traffic! If you plan to take any other bus journeys in your free time, please do check with the guide. As always, we keep an eye on safety in Colombia, and if the situation changes we will advise the team accordingly.
Travel
Is it possible to stay longer in Cartagena at the end of the trip?
If you want to depart Colombia later this is not a problem, we can arrange an additional airport transfer – just chat to the 360 office team, and make sure you let us know if we are booking your flights for you.
Is there a single room option on this trip?
Yes, there is the opportunity for a single room at the hotels, please do let the office know and they will advise on the costs.