Hey, I’m Ráchelle - the adventure-seeker and storyteller behind Tales of Odyssey! 👋 I consider myself a raw adventure and conservation storyteller, and love diving headfirst into the wild to share stories of nature, wildlife, and the people who protect it.
The wildest thing I’ve done? Hard to pick just one! My travels have taken me to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth, from freediving with sharks to tracking wildlife on foot in India and camping under the African sky. ✨
I curated this trip because I believe adventure should be more than just sightseeing—it should immerse you in the raw beauty of the natural world, push your boundaries, and connect you with stories that matter. ❤️
Whether it’s exploring vast landscapes, encountering wildlife up close, or diving into the treasures of the ocean, I want to take you beyond the surface and into the heart of the wild. 🌿
If you love learning about precious cultures, snorkeling, hiking, wildlife encounters, storytelling around the campfire, and pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, this journey is for you. Let’s explore, get a little muddy, and come back with stories worth telling. Ready to dive in? 🥳
There’s something about the untamed beauty of Colombia’s Caribbean coast that stirs the soul. You can repel down a jungle waterfall, paddle through a river where howler monkeys swing in the trees, and find the pulse of salsa beats moving through your body under the glow of a tropical sunset. From the sacred traditions of the Kogui people to the electrifying energy of Santa Marta’s coastal waters, seven days of adventure await.
On this trip, you’ll do all that and so much more. Hike through the legendary Tayrona National Park, sail to hidden beaches where the sand meets the reef, and dive into the kind of experiences that stay with you long after you leave.
Designed for explorers who crave both adventure and connection, this trip is for those who want to push past the ordinary and step into something truly unforgettable. Don’t miss out – this isn’t your average adventure.
-Welcome to Santa Marta, Colombia’s oldest city and the gateway to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Upon arrival, a private transfer with a bilingual guide will take you along the scenic Caribbean coastline to your eco retreat.
-After check-in, explore the lush surroundings, soak in the tropical vibes, or unwind with a swim.
-As the sun dips below the horizon, the group will gather for a welcome dinner, featuring fresh local flavors that celebrate the region’s Caribbean and Indigenous heritage.
-The night ends with a bonfire on the beach, a perfect setting to connect with fellow travelers under the starlit sky. This is only day 1!
-Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a fresh breakfast before heading out for a morning of kayaking on the Don Diego River. This pristine river, originating in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, offers a serene yet adventurous paddle through lush tropical rainforest. As you glide through crystal-clear waters, keep an eye out for exotic wildlife.
-It's time to shift gears and dive into Colombia’s rich dance culture with a salsa workshop. Led by a professional instructor, this high-energy class will introduce you to the essential moves of Colombian-style salsa, a dance deeply rooted in the country's Afro-Caribbean and Latin rhythms.
-The afternoon is yours to unwind. Relax at the hotel, explore the surroundings, or take a dip in the pool.
-After breakfast, embark on a rare and profound journey into the heart of Kogui culture, one of the most spiritually rich indigenous communities in Colombia. The adventure begins with a scenic drive along the coast, ascending into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where the tropical jungle stretches over the Buritaca River Valley.
-Upon arrival at Mulkwakungui, a Kogui settlement, visitors must first receive permission from the community’s Mamo, the spiritual leader. In a traditional cleansing ritual, the Mamo will purify the group’s energy, ensuring a harmonious connection with the land and ancestors.
-After the ceremony, enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the community, offering a taste of indigenous flavors in a peaceful setting surrounded by lush rainforest.
-Return to the hotel in the afternoon for free time – relax, reflect, or explore the surrounding nature.
-Start the day with breakfast before setting off for one of Colombia’s most breathtaking natural treasures – Tayrona National Park.
-The adventure begins with a hike from Cañaveral, winding through the dense tropical rainforest, past massive boulders, and along hidden beaches. The first stretch leads to Arrecifes, a scenic yet rugged coastal area where waves crash dramatically against the shore. From there, continue toward the dreamy beaches of Arenillas, La Piscina, and Cabo San Juan, where golden sands and turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting.
-After returning to the hotel, free time and great food await!
-Fuel up with breakfast before heading into the lush, misty mountains of Minca. Today’s adventure is all about adrenaline and nature – canyoning in the waterfalls of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
-The experience kicks off with a hike through dense jungle trails, where the scent of fresh earth and the sounds of tropical birds set the scene. The real thrill begins at the waterfall – a 25-meter rappel down its rushing cascade. Navigate rocky riverbeds, leap into crystal-clear natural pools, and slide down smooth rock formations sculpted by centuries of flowing water.
-After conquering the canyon, take a moment to enjoy Minca’s laid-back energy before heading back to the hotel.
-Rise and shine with breakfast before setting sail on a Tayrona sailing excursion. The journey leads to one of Tayrona’s hidden gems – Playa Cristal or Playa Cinto, both famous for their untouched beauty and crystal-clear waters. Once anchored, dive in for a snorkeling session over vibrant coral reefs, home to an array of colorful marine life.
-Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch right on the beach, indulging in locally caught flavors while surrounded by nothing but sun, sand, and sea.
-Back at the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax. Whether reflecting on the week’s adventures or preparing for the final night, dinner will be a chance to soak in the last moments of this incredible journey.
-Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel, taking in the last moments of Colombia’s Caribbean paradise.
-After checkout, a private group transfer with a bilingual guide will take you back to Santa Marta Airport, offering one last scenic drive along the coastline. Until next time – Colombia’s wild beauty will be waiting!
