Colombia Calling: Experience Cultural Classics on the Caribbean Coast with Nicole

duration
6 days · 5 nights
travel date
Feb 12 - 17, 2026
activity level
Moderate
group size
6 – 10
transportation
Group vehicle, boat
Your TourHero
tourhero
Nicole Phillip
bio

Hey y’all! I’m Nicole, a travel creator and your TourHero for this trip to Cartagena, Colombia. This is the first city I visited in Colombia and it made me fall in love with the country. Now it is hands down one of my favorite places in the world and now, I’m bringing you along with me!

I curated this trip to introduce more people to this beautiful country beyond what you might see in the media. This isn’t your typical “museum and art gallery” tour (no shade, but that’s just not me). This trip is all about experiencing Cartagena: the food, the beaches, the nightlife, and the local culture that makes this place so special. Expect to dance, explore, and connect with the Afro-Colombian community in ways you won’t find on your average group tour.

Can’t wait to show you why Cartagena stole my heart.

Colombia > Colombia Calling: Experience Cultural Classics on the Caribbean Coast with Nicole

Culture, cuisine, and Cartagenan charm – adventure awaits on this six-day trip to Colombia! Known for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and stunning scenery, Cartagena is the crown jewel of the Caribbean coastline. From beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, to bustling city streets and historical sights, our exploration of Colombia will give you a taste of everything this stunning location has to offer. We’ll go island hopping in the Rosario Islands, touring white-sand beaches and soaking up the sun. Wander the streets of Colonial Cartagena while sampling Caribbean street food, indulge in a mud bath at the Totumo mud volcano, and dance the night away to iconic Champeta beats. Join us as we get lost in the rhythm and experience unforgettable Caribbean adventures. Colombia is calling – are you ready to answer?

Itinerary timeline
Day 1 · February 12, 2026 · Cartagena
Arrive at Cartagena Airport
Group transfer to hotel
Check-in at InterContinental Cartagena de Indias (or similar)
Free time
Welcome dinner at Alyzia (includes starter, main dish, dessert & 1 alcoholic drink/cocktail)
Day 2 · February 13, 2026 · Cartagena
Breakfast at hotel
Visit La Popa Convent
Colonial Cartagena & Caribbean Street Food Tour
Private Caribbean cooking class (lunch included)
Free night
Day 3 · February 14, 2026 · Cartagena
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Private island hopping adventure in the Rosario Islands (includes fresh fruits, lunch, 3 local beers each, snacks)
Check-in at Estelar Cartagena de Indias (or similar)
Champeta night out (includes entrance fees & 2 drinks each)
Day 4 · February 15, 2026 · Cartagena
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
San Basilio de Palenque tour
Check-in at InterContinental Cartagena de Indias (or similar)
Free time
Day 5 · February 16, 2026 · Cartagena
Breakfast at hotel
Visit the Totumo mud volcano
Spa, yoga, and meditation at Namaste Beach Club (lunch included)
Farewell dinner at Casa Cruxada (includes starter, main dish, dessert & 1 alcoholic drink/cocktail)
Day 6 · February 17, 2026 · Departure
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Group transfer Cartagena Airport
Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · February 12, 2026
Classic Cartagena charm

-Welcome to Colombia! You’ve landed in Cartagena, a beautiful spot along the Caribbean coast. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, ready for the adventure to begin!

-After check-in, you’ll have some free time to explore this incredible city however you choose. You can relax by the pool and unwind after your journey, or you can start discovering Colombian culture by checking out the local area.

-Our group will come together for a delicious welcome dinner at Alyzia, giving you an opportunity to connect with your fellow travelers ahead of our Caribbean adventure!

Day 2 · February 13, 2026
Delicious Caribbean cuisine

-After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to La Popa Convent, perched high on a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cartagena. As you explore the convent's beautiful architecture and serene gardens, take in the stunning vistas of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

-Next on the agenda is a tour of Colonial Cartagena, featuring mouthwatering Caribbean street food. Learn about the city’s rich culinary heritage and sample local delicacies to your heart’s content!

-Make sure you leave some room for lunch as our next activity is a Caribbean cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

-The evening is yours to explore at your leisure, surrounded by the lively atmosphere and rhythm of Cartagena.

Day 3 · February 14, 2026
Island adventures and a night on the town

-Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out, ready for an amazing day ahead! We’re setting sail for the Rosario Islands, a tropical paradise known for its beautiful waters, white-sand beaches, and ultimate relaxation vibes.

-We’ll spend the day swimming and sunbathing, taking in the stunning scenery while sipping on local beers.

-Then, we’ll head back to Cartagena and check into our hotel.

-Prepare to experience Cartagena’s vibrant nightlife with a Champeta night out! Think lively Afro-Caribbean music, dancing, and drinks – join in the rhythm with the local crowd!

Day 4 · February 15, 2026
Follow in freedom’s footsteps

-After breakfast and checkout, we’ll explore the deep history of Colombia with a visit to San Bailio de palenque. Starting out as a refuge for escaped slaves in the early 1600s, this spot went on to become Colonial America’s first free town. It is the birthplace of Afro-Caribbean music, and has become the heart of African heritage in this country.

-After an incredible experience of local history, we’ll check in at our hotel and you’ll have some free time to reflect and relax.

Day 5 · February 16, 2026
Volcanic wellness wonders

-Enjoy breakfast at the hotel ahead of our total relaxation experience. We’ll start out with an exhilarating visit to the Totumo mud volcano, where you can indulge in a unique bathing experience in its warm, therapeutic mud. This natural wonder is not only fun but also offers a chance to rejuvenate your skin and relax in a truly extraordinary setting. Don’t worry – you’ll have plenty of time to get cleaned up afterwards!

-In the afternoon, unwind at the Namaste Beach Club, where you can enjoy spa treatments designed to pamper and revitalize you. We’ll enjoy yoga, meditation, and a relaxing massage.

-As the sun sets, gather for a farewell dinner at Casa Cruxada. Delicious cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and great company – what better way to round out our memorable week in Cartagena?

Day 6 · February 17, 2026
Catch you later, Colombia

-It’s our last morning in Cartagena, where you’ll enjoy one more yummy breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

-A group transfer will take you to the airport for your departure, as you reminisce about Caribbean cuisine, island adventures, and Colombia’s coastal beauty. Though our journey together ends here, the memories will last a lifetime. Save travels!

Tour Price
USD 2,250
per person
Flexible payment plans available
Your fellow explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Culture, history, exploration, beach, island-hopping, foodie, tropical
Fellow Travelers
12 total travelers
Kenneth
Caroline
Brandon
Nicole
MELISE
Dasja
Nina
Qianna
Your local guide
In 2011, Markus Jobi began Palenque Tours in an effort to combine ecological and cultural tourism in the City of Medellin and the Antioquia and Chocó regions. The company runs local experiences and tours, along with multi-day trips to showcase the beauty and culture of the country. In 2017, the company successfully completed the process of an international certification in tourist sustainability. The same year it was approved by TOURCERT, an international German certifier recognized for its social, environmental, and cultural high standards. Today, all activities offered are private, customized, and have a positive social and cultural impact clearly defined and articulated.
Accommodation
InterContinental Cartagena de Indias (or similar according to availability)

The InterContinental Cartagena is located in a privileged waterfront location in Bocagrande, an exclusive neighborhood in the city of Cartagena. Overlooking the beautiful bay of Castillogrande, this upscale hotel sits across the street from the beach, five minutes from the old city and four kilometers from the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress. Hotel amenities include a chic restaurant/bar with sea views, and indoor pool, a gym, and a lobby lounge. Modern guest rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safes, and sea or bay views. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Estelar Cartagena de Indias Hotel (or similar according to availability)

With oceanfront views and a stunning rooftop pool, Estelar Cartagena de Indias is the ideal destination for resting and relaxing in Colombia and enjoying nearby sights in Cartagena. This upscale, luxury hotel features chic rooms with all the modern amenities you need for your getaway, including free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. There are two restaurants on-site, plus a lobby bar and a scenic Sky Bar — the best place to unwind after a day of exploration. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Included
  • 5 nights accommodation in Cartagena

  • All breakfasts

  • Lunch on days 2, 3, 4 & 5

  • Dinner on days 1 & 5

  • 1 group airport arrival transfer

  • 1 group airport departure transfer

  • All activities & tours listed in itinerary

  • Activity transfers & English-speaking guides

Not included
  • International and domestic flights

  • International airport departure tax

  • Visas

  • All food & drink not mentioned in inclusions

  • All personal expenses

  • Optional/free time activities

  • Travel insurance

  • Tips & gratuities

FAQ
Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Nov 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -5), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.

If you cancel your trip from Nov 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT -5) onwards, no refunds will be issued.

You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.

Available add-ons
Single room upgrade

Upgrade to a private room for the duration of your trip.

USD 663
Sold out
Getsemani tour

Uncover the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemani on a tour that gets you up close and personal with its quirky-cool sights.

USD 63
1 spot left