Beyond the Beach: A Thrill-Seeker’s Escape in Santa Marta with Joel

duration
6 days · 5 nights
travel date
Sep 23 - 28, 2025
activity level
Moderate
group size
10
transportation
Group airport & activity transfers
Your TourHero
tourhero
Joel
bio

Hey my name is Joel I’m a professional photographer that travels mostly for work. The craziest thing if done whilst traveling was flying 10,000kms for a tinder date.


I curated this trip because I believe travel is the best way to connect with new people. Im sure you know but exploring is and will always be a passion of mine. If you're ready to create some insane dad/mom lore with like-minded travelers, I'd love for you to join me!

Colombia > Beyond the Beach: A Thrill-Seeker’s Escape in Santa Marta with Joel

Some trips show you new places – this one drops you into the wild, where rivers lead to the sea, jungle trails hide ancient secrets, and every morning leads to a new adventure. Over six days, you’ll kayak through untouched rainforest, surf Caribbean waves, rappel down waterfalls, and hike to hidden beaches in Tayrona National Park. If that’s not enough, you’ll step into the world of the Kogui people, experiencing ancient traditions and a spiritual cleansing ceremony deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Between all the action? Oceanfront bonfires, laid-back eco-lodges, and the kind of free time that lets you soak it all in.

If your ideal trip blends adrenaline, nature, and exploration, without sacrificing epic vibes, this is the adventure you’ve been waiting for. What’s stopping you?

Itinerary timeline
Day 1 · September 23, 2025 · Santa Marta
Arrive in Colombia at Santa Marta Airport
Private group transfer from airport to accommodation with bilingual guide
Check-in at Finca La Jorará Eco Hotel (or similar according to availability)
Free time
Welcome dinner
Beach bonfire
Day 2 · September 24, 2025 · Palomino & Santa Marta
Breakfast at hotel
Kayaking on the Don Diego River
Surf lesson
Return to hotel
Lunch
Free time
Dinner
Day 3 · September 25, 2025 · Mulkwakungui & Santa Marta
Breakfast at hotel
Visit of a Kogui community (includes traditional lunch)
Return to hotel
Free time
Dinner
Day 4 · September 26, 2025 · Tayrona & Santa Marta
Breakfast
Hike and swim in Tayrona National Park
Return to hotel
Lunch
Free time
Dinner
Day 5 · September 27, 2025 · Minca & Santa Marta
Breakfast at hotel
Canyoning in the Minca waterfalls
Return to hotel
Lunch
Free time
Dinner
Day 6 · September 28, 2025 · Departure
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Group transfer from hotel to Santa Marta Airport with bilingual guide
Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · September 23, 2025
The other side of Colombia – welcome to Santa Marta

-Arrive in Santa Marta, Colombia’s oldest city and your gateway to adventure! Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by a bilingual guide and whisked away on a private transfer to the hotel.

-After settling in, take a dip in the pool, wander through the tropical surroundings, or just vibe in a hammock with a fresh juice in hand.

-As the sun sets, the group will gather for a welcome dinner, where local flavors set the tone for the week ahead.

-Take things up a notch with a bonfire on the beach – because nothing beats good company, crashing waves, and the promise of adventure under a starlit sky.

Day 2 · September 24, 2025
Paddle, waves, and jungle vibes

-Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at the hotel – you're going to need the energy for today's adventures.

-First up: kayaking down the Don Diego River, where the Sierra Nevada spills its magic into crystal-clear waters. Glide through untouched rainforest, past towering jungle canopies, and keep an eye out for playful monkeys and tropical birds overhead. Just when you think it can't get better, the river meets the Caribbean, revealing a breathtaking coastal view.

-Next, it's time to ride the waves in Palomino. Whether you're a total beginner or have surfed before, this lesson is all about fun.

-After an adrenaline-packed day, head back to the hotel for some well-earned free time.

Day 3 · September 25, 2025
Into the Sacred Sierra with the Kogui

-Another morning in paradise begins with breakfast at the hotel before heading deep into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where ancient traditions meet untouched nature. The journey winds along coastal roads and into the lush Buritaca River valley, offering stunning views of the jungle-clad hills before arriving at Mulkwakungui, a Kogui settlement hidden in the heart of the mountains.

-Before stepping into the village, you'll undergo a spiritual cleansing ritual led by the Mamo, the Kogui spiritual leader. Seated around a sacred fire, you’ll sip coca leaf tea, listen to ancestral wisdom, and gain insight into the Kogui way of life.

-After this powerful experience, enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the community, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the jungle. Take in the peaceful energy of this sacred space before heading back to the hotel.

Day 4 · September 26, 2025
Trekking and swimming in Tayrona’s grandeur

-Wake up to another sun-soaked morning and fuel up with breakfast at the hotel. Today’s adventure takes you into one of Colombia’s most breathtaking natural wonders: Tayrona National Park.

-The journey begins with a hike from Cañaveral, winding through dense tropical rainforest, past towering trees, exotic wildlife, and hidden archaeological sites that whisper stories of ancient civilizations. The trail leads to Arrecifes, a rugged coastline where the waves crash dramatically against the shore.

-From here, you’ll continue towards Arenillas, Piscina, and finally, Cabo San Juan, a picture-perfect beach straight out of a dream. Cool off in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, letting the waves wash away the heat.

-Return to the hotel and relax.

Day 5 · September 27, 2025
Jungle thrills: Canyoning in Minca

-After breakfast at the hotel, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day in the lush mountains of Minca.

-The journey kicks off with a scenic hike through dense jungle trails, leading to a stunning waterfall where the real challenge begins – rappelling down a 25-meter drop. Feel the rush of cool mountain water as you descend, surrounded by the vibrant green of the rainforest.

-The adventure doesn’t stop there! Navigate rocky riverbeds, jump into natural pools, and slide down smooth rock formations, all while expert guides keep you safe and hyped.

-After conquering the canyon, return to the hotel where the rest of the day is schedule-free.

Day 6 · September 28, 2025
Saying goodbye to sacred Santa Marta

-All great adventures must come to an end, but the memories? They’re here to stay. Enjoy one last breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

-A private transfer will take the group back to Santa Marta Airport, with a bilingual guide ensuring a smooth transition. We hope you had a blast and will join us on another adventure soon!

Tour Price
USD 1,785
per person
Flexible payment plans available
Your fellow explorers
Age range
18+
Travel interest
Outdoor adventures, nature & wildlife, exploration, cultural immersion
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
Finca La Jorará Eco Hotel (or similar according to availability)

The Finca La Jorará Eco Hotel is nestled between the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the pristine shoreline, offering its guests the best of everything nature has to offer. Here, you can live authentic experiences immersed in the beauty of the Colombian jungle, honoring the cultural roots of the area and basking in the beauty of its stunning beaches. The property features 14 rooms with en suite baths, private balconies, Wi-Fi, and plant-based meals. Each day, soak up the sun at the resort’s private beach and natural pools and dig into Caribbean tradition at the on-site restaurant with dishes made solely from organic and local ingredients. Room type / configuration: Double occupancy.

Included
  • 5 nights at accommodation in Santa Marta

  • Double occupancy in accommodation

  • All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner)

  • 1 group arrival airport transfer

  • 1 group departure airport transfer

  • All activities & tours listed in itinerary

  • Bilingual guidance (during activities)

Not included
  • Flights

  • All food & drink not mentioned in inclusions

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Personal expenses not stipulated

  • Optional add-ons

  • 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 Jul 20, 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 Jul 21, 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.

Trip disclaimer
To offer the best group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers. If that number isn't met—or if unexpected events occur (such as force majeure)—TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may need to cancel or reschedule.


If changes happen: You'll be notified by Jul 20, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -5), and if the trip is canceled or rescheduled beyond your control, you'll get a full refund. We'll always update you at least 7 days in advance if this date changes.


Book smart: We recommend refundable flights and accommodations to protect your plans from any last-minute changes.