Eco Escape to Colombia: Stretch, Sightsee & Surf with Peter Martin
Your TourHero
Peter is a certified 200Hr RYT yoga instructor, registered with Yoga Alliance. Peter began practicing yoga in 2016, and has been teaching since 2019 vinyasa style yoga. His classes are easy to follow and beginner-friendly. If you are looking for change in your life, or simply wish to hone your yoga practice, this retreat is for you!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Sep 18 – 24, 2023
Activity Level
Medium
Group Size
10 - 20
Transportation
Private group transfer
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
18+
Travel interest
Yoga, wellness, beach, eco
Your Local Guide
Founded in 2013, VAOVA Travel is an experience tour creator specializing in university treks, meetings and events, and luxury small group tours. Their mission is to share an authentic and unique perspective of the destinations they travel to by creating memorable experiences, bringing people together through perfectly curated 'happenings'.
Experts at organizing events and parties in magical locations from remote islands to vibing cities, VAOVA aims to blend traveler's experiences with high-end interactive and unique events and vibrant local cultures. They also specialize in personalized tours, local insider knowledge, highly-trained bilingual guides, exciting accommodation, and tours of all of the best activities — from must-see tourist hotspots to off-the-beaten-track excursions.
VAOVA also have COVID-19 policies in place, ensuring that your safety is the top priority. With symptom monitoring, event protocols, and on-hand medical assistance, they're sure to make you feel safe, secure, and give you that extra peace of mind.
Embark on an eco journey to Colombia's coastal paradise, Palomino, for a week of wellness you won't regret! Join Peter Martin and VAOVA for daily yoga and wellbeing sessions, surfing lessons on Colombia's crystal waters, exciting sightseeing excursions, healthy hikes, and so much more! With a private beach at your disposal, dedicated yoga space, and three excellent meals a day, this is the perfect getaway for some stress-free downtime and focusing on you! With plenty of leisure time thrown in, this is one trip you don't want to miss! Pack your bags and get ready to be rejuvenated, relaxed, and immersed in Colombian heaven. Buen Viaje!
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until July 9, 2023. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by July 9, 2023 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
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 fully-paid trip
You may change or cancel your trip by July 9, 2023 for a refund, excluding the deposit amount. After this date, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Peter is a certified 200Hr RYT yoga instructor, registered with Yoga Alliance. Peter began practicing yoga in 2016, and has been teaching since 2019 vinyasa style yoga. His classes are easy to follow and beginner-friendly. If you are looking for change in your life, or simply wish to hone your yoga practice, this retreat is for you!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Sep 18 – 24, 2023
Activity Level
Medium
Group Size
10 - 20
Transportation
Private group transfer
Embark on an eco journey to Colombia's coastal paradise, Palomino, for a week of wellness you won't regret! Join Peter Martin and VAOVA for daily yoga and wellbeing sessions, surfing lessons on Colombia's crystal waters, exciting sightseeing excursions, healthy hikes, and so much more! With a private beach at your disposal, dedicated yoga space, and three excellent meals a day, this is the perfect getaway for some stress-free downtime and focusing on you! With plenty of leisure time thrown in, this is one trip you don't want to miss! Pack your bags and get ready to be rejuvenated, relaxed, and immersed in Colombian heaven. Buen Viaje!
Timeline
- Day 1 · Santa Marta & Palomino
- Arrive at Simón Bolívar International Airport, Santa Marta
- Group transfer from airport to hotel
- Check-in to Aité Eco Resort (or similar according to availability)
- Free time
- Late afternoon/evening yoga
- Dinner (20:00 - 22:00)
- Day 2 · Santa Marta & Palomino
- Morning yoga (8:00 - 10:00)
- Breakfast
- Lunch at Agua de Mar (13:00 - 14:00)
- Santa Marta City tour (14:00 - 18:00)
- Return to hotel
- Evening yoga
- Dinner (20:00 - 22:00)
- Day 3 · Tayrona & Palomino
- Morning yoga (7:00 - 8:00)
- Breakfast
- Trekking in Tayrona (9:00 - 17:00)
- Lunch
- Return to hotel
- Evening yoga
- Dinner (20:00 - 22:00)
- Day 4 · Don Diego & Palomino
- Morning yoga (7:00 - 8:00)
- Breakfast
- Tubing in Don Diego (9:00 - 17:00)
- Lunch
- Return to hotel
- Evening yoga
- Dinner (20:00 - 22:00)
- Day 5 · Palomino
- Breakfast
- Surf & Yoga in Palomino (9:00 - 17:00)
- Lunch
- Return to hotel
- Free time
- Dinner (20:00 - 22:00)
- Day 6 · Palomino
- Breakfast
- The Four Elements Path (8:00 - 13:00)
- Lunch (13:00 - 14:00)
- Return to hotel
- Free time
- Late afternoon/evening yoga
- Farewell dinner at 7 Mares (20:00 - 22:00)
- Day 7 · Departure
- Breakfast and check-out of hotel
- Group transfer to the airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Bienvenidos — welcome to Colombia’s slice of coastal paradise
Your Colombian eco retreat starts here! You'll arrive in Santa Marta, where a VAOVA representative will meet you and your group at the airport and ensure you get to your luxury eco-resort safely! You’ll be staying in the coastal paradise of Palomino. Palomino is one of the most delightful destinations on the Colombian Caribbean Coast, with a perfect mix of exclusive beaches, extraordinary biodiversity, and authentic infrastructure that suits the needs of all types of travelers. Due to its location in the south of the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, it has a landscape that combines the richness of mountains with the Caribbean Sea. Palomino is also a unique ecotourism point, thanks to the rivers Palomino, San Salvador, and Don Diego.
Arriving at your beachfront hideaway, enjoy some time to unpack, unwind, and take advantage of the hotel amenities before a late afternoon/evening yoga session with your group. As the sun sets and the night eases in, it's time for your first dinner at the hotel. Dine on some healthy local fare before setting off for a good night's sleep—you'll need it after a busy day of travel!
Day 2
See more of Santa Marta as you stretch into a brand new day!
Buenos Días! Start your first day right with a morning yoga session, and if that doesn't wake you up, a healthy breakfast at the hotel will help fuel you for a day of snacking and sightseeing. Today's excursion will be into Santa Marta, and after a delicious lunch at Agua de Mar, an unmissable gastronomic experience, it'll be time to discover the history of South America’s second-oldest city in this three-hour tour. Visit iconic sites like the San Pedro Alejandrino country house, the historic center—a National Monument and home to the first church-ordained cathedral built in South America—as well as the Gold Museum, an exclusive place to learn about the Tayrona culture, and el Pibe monument—a sculpture created in honor of famed soccer player Carlos ‘El Pibe’ Valderrama. After your tour, we'll head back to the hotel for some evening stretches and another tasty dinner. A chill way to end an exciting day.
Tour includes group transfers, a bilingual guide, entrance fees, soft drinks and snacks, and a coffee stop.
Day 3
An intreprid trek through Tayrona National Park awaits
Rise and shine! Stretch into a day of exploration with an early morning yoga session, and make sure to limber up for your trek today! You'll be traversing Tayrona National Park, an ecotourism haven complete with spectacular hiking trails, rare species of plants and animals, crystal-clear waters, unique mangroves, and beautiful sandy beaches. Your full-day tour will walk you through this Colombian natural treasure, immersing you in a diverse biosphere and introducing you to some more of heavenly Colombia. Don't forget your swimming costumes—you'll have a chance to take a dive and float around the tranquil deep-blue Caribbean sea. Returning to the hotel, you'll unwind with some evening yoga and a fabulous meal, and don't forget to take in a perfect Colombian sunset on the beach!
Tour includes group transfers, a bilingual guide, entrance fees, lunch, soft drinks and snacks, and health insurance.
Day 4
Tube down the Don Diego River in an exciting watersports excursion!
Wake up and seize the day with a morning yoga session, setting you up for another exciting adventure! Today's excursion is one of the most unmissable activities in Palomino—tubing along the winding Don Diego river! Warm up with a 40-minute trek through nature, joined by native birds and amazing views. Then, board an inflatable tube raft and sail down the course of the Don Diego with your group and a party boat in tow! You'll be able to hop on board for flowing beers, cocktails, and music, and a stop along the route for a traditional lunch with keep you energized during your voyage. Finally, you'll reach the Caribbean Sea where your journey will end and it'll be time to head back to the hotel for some chill-out yoga and a delightful dinner.
Excursion includes group transfers, a local bilingual guide, 4-hour tubing experience, a traditional lunch, and unlimited alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, aguardiente, and rum) on the boat.
Day 5
Surf's up during a day of beach-going and bettering
Another day of wellness awaits, and today you’ll make the most out of the most stunning beaches in Palomino. After wake-up yoga and breakfast, start the day off with a surf class with help from a local guru who’ll help you conquer the Caribbean waves, whether you’re a surfing novice or an expert. After you’ve made a splash, you’ll have some time afterwards to relax on the white sand beaches, indulge in a healthy lunch at a local beach club, and spend some time in the sea. You’ll conclude your beach day with a yoga session on the sand, helping you to recharge your batteries and renew your energy with the laidback vibes emanating from this charming coastal town. Not had enough of the beach today? You’ve got a private beach at your hotel to make the most of, too.
Excursion includes group transfers, bilingual surfing instructor and yoga instructor, surf board and shirt, yoga class, beach access, and beach club lunch.
Day 6
Find the Four Elements on your final day in Colombia
Your final full day in Palomino will take you on a spiritual journey around several magical spots hidden throughout the area. After an early start and breakfast, you’ll head out on a unique tour to discover ancient hiking trails and serene landscapes perfect for practicing your yoga, as well as partake in breathing and meditative exercises, restorative hot baths, and impressive waterfalls! With some tasty traditional snacks thrown in, bonfires, and unequalled tranquility, this will be the perfect healing experience to help you get closer to nature, yourself, and wrap up your eco escape. After lunch, head back to the hotel for some free time—enjoy a beachfront massage, a dip in one of the pools, and get yourself packed up for your trip home tomorrow. A farewell dinner at the 7 Mares restaurant will be the best way to say goodbye to Colombia and your new friends. Celebrate in style—Salud!
Excursion includes group transfers, a bilingual guide, a holistic therapist, and traditional snacks.
Day 7
Say adiós to Colombia—for now!
It’s time to say goodbye to Colombia—we hope you’ve had a magical and restorative time in the country’s diverse biosphere, splashing in its soothing waves, and spending time focusing on yourself. After breakfast, we’ll get you and your group to the airport for your next adventure. See you again soon for more Colombian magic!
Accommodation
Aité Eco-Resort (or similar according to availability)
Surrounded by lush gardens and vegetation on the Caribbean Sea, this stunning and serene beachfront resort is the perfect space for unwinding and enjoying some much-needed time in the sun. Luxurious and rustic wood-decorated rooms feature thatched roofs, mosquito nets, and modern amenities such as air conditioning and minifridges. There are no TVs here, allowing you some time to escape from the screen and enjoy some old-school downtime. Meals are served in a laidback restaurant, and you can relax in two outdoor pools, play beach volleyball on the private beach, hire a kayak, or indulge in beachfront massages. A little slice of eco heaven! Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Twin beds
Included
- 6 nights at Aité Eco-Resort (or similar)
- Double occupancy in accommodation
- All meals included (with plant-based options)
- All activities described in the itinerary
- All airport & activity transfers
- 1 group arrival airport transfer
- 1 group departure airport transfer
- VAOVA bilingual team member and guide
- Special gifts and surprises upon welcome and departure
- Dedicated yoga space
Not included
- Flights
- Personal expenses not stipulated
- Optional add-ons
- Travel insurance & Visa
- Gratuities
- Early check-in or late check-out
Available add-on
Single room upgrade
Looking for more privacy? Upgrade to a single room for the duration of the trip.
Price: USD 715
20 spots left
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until July 9, 2023. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by July 9, 2023 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
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 fully-paid trip
You may change or cancel your trip by July 9, 2023 for a refund, excluding the deposit amount. After this date, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- You'll find a mix of colonial architecture throughout the vibrant streets of the city. - Pixabay: Makalu
- Chill in nature as you float down the Don Diego River into the Caribbean Sea. - Unsplash: Keriliwi
- Welcome to the divine Caribbean coast of Colombia where we invite you to kick back, relax, and find your inner zen, surrounded by pure nature. - Unsplash: sander traa
- Aité Eco Resort - Facebook: Aité Eco Resort
- Aité Eco Resort - Facebook: Aité Eco Resort
- Aité Eco Resort - Facebook: Aité Eco Resort
- Rise and shine, and stretch into your first day with some yoga in the resort's dedicated yoga space. Namaste! - Facebook: Aité Eco Resort
- As the sun sets on your getaway, enjoy one last spectacular sight from the beach. - Facebook: Aité Eco Resort
- You're headed to Tayrona National Park today for a hike. Get ready for non-stop picturesque vistas and beaches. - Wikimedia Commons
- With an experienced surfing instructor, you'll learn the best ways to catch some waves! Live up the #surflife, enjoy the refreshing ocean spray and the salty breeze, and have an amazing morning! - Oliver Sjöström
- Today's excursion will take you on search of the Four Elements—meditate on some amazing views, take some time to reflect on nature, and stretch out the good vibes on your final full day in Colombia. - Unsplash: Annegret Kammer
- Aité Eco Resort - Aité Eco-Resort
- Aité Eco Resort - Aité Eco-Resort
- Add-on: Single room upgrade - Aité Eco-Resort