We recently wrapped our first U30X Colombia trip and sent our Regional Manager, Maricruz to join the group! Here is a recap of the trip from her POV, and all of our favorite parts.
Day 1 - Arrival, Welcome to Medellin
The city of eternal spring, Medellin, welcomed our group with a beautiful afternoon. After settling into our rooms, we explored the town and enjoyed a delicious dinner with a view of the city!
Day 2 - Comuna 13 and Chiva Rumbera
Comuna 13, a neighborhood once notorious for its high crime rate and violence, has undergone a remarkable transformation. From a place of fear and danger, it has become a lively and picturesque destination that enchants all who visit it. The streets are adorned with vibrant and colorful street art, depicting the struggles and resilience of the community. The locals are friendly and hospitable, eager to showcase the transformation of their neighborhood and share its unique culture with visitors.
Day 3 - Santa Marta
After a brief flight, we arrived in Santa Marta and checked into our charming hotel. The staff greeted us, and we were pleased to find that the weather was perfect. As we settled into our room, we could see the sun setting in the distance, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. We decided to head to the pool area to relax and enjoy the stunning view. The pool water was cool and refreshing, and we spent the rest of the evening enjoying the peaceful ambiance!
Day 4 - Tyrona
This morning, the hike began by immersing ourselves in the park's natural elements, learning about the medicinal properties of the plants, and discovering the diverse wildlife inhabiting the area.
With appreciation for the park's indigenous community, we embarked on an 8-mile trek towards the first beach. The journey was challenging, but the breathtaking views of the pristine landscape made it worthwhile. As we arrived at the beach, we were greeted with crystal clear waters and soft sand that beckoned us to unwind. A few in our group decided to continue their adventure towards Cabo San Juan. At the same time, the rest of us enjoyed a delicious lunch by the shore and indulged in a refreshing swim in the ocean!
Day 5 - Cartagena
Today was an exciting day as we embarked on a five-hour car ride to the beautiful city of Cartagena. We stopped at Shakira's iconic monument in Barranquilla, a tribute to the talented Colombian singer.
As we arrived in Cartagena, we were excited to taste the famous Arepa Rellena, a typical Colombian dish the locals highly recommended. The first bite was a burst of flavors, and we loved this delicious delicacy!
We had a walking city tour to explore the vibrant streets of Cartagena. The historical sites and cultural landmarks left us in awe, and we gained a deeper appreciation for the city's rich history.
Day 6 - San Basilio de Palenque
We visited San Basilio de Palenque, a small, vibrant village nestled in the heart of South America. What makes this village so special is its unique culture, rooted in African traditions. Over the centuries, this culture has evolved and adapted into something truly remarkable, with its own customs, music, and cuisine. Visitors to Palenque can immerse themselves in this rich cultural heritage, learning about the village's traditions and rituals. It's no wonder that UNESCO has recognized Palenque as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity," a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable community.
Day 7 - Cartagena and Magroves
Our day was filled with excitement as we embarked on a tour of La Boquilla's beautiful mangroves. We were fascinated by learning about the unique local fauna and meeting some friendly people who call this place home. We then had the incredible experience of gliding through the mangroves on a peaceful canoe tour, taking in the lush surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. After our adventure, we spent the afternoon exploring the charming city of Cartagena, immersing ourselves in its rich history and vibrant culture. We also took time to unwind and relax at the pool, enjoying the warm sunshine and refreshing breeze.
Day 8 - Departure
As our journey ends, it's time to say goodbye to the extraordinary individuals who have become our friends. Although we must part ways, for now, I am confident we will cross paths and travel together again.
Wondering if Bogota, Colombia is safe right now? Check out our article from our CEO & Co-founder.
If you want to make friends and see the world, check out our group trips for ages 21-35 with Under30Experiences!
