Central and South American Adventure: From Costa Rica to Colombia Adventure Tour

Phones charged and playlists queued - this 27-day journey is a full-on adventure through Central and South America that's packed with wild nature, laid-back beach towns, and buzzing cities. Start in Costa Rica with the surfy chill of Puerto Viejo before heading into Panama's hidden gems - think island time in Bocas del Toro, misty hikes in Boquete, and the crater village of Valle de Antón. Then go fully off-grid on the San Blas Islands, where Indigenous communities run the show and turquoise water meets white sand. After that, it's Colombia time. Wander Cartagena's colourful old town, trek through jungle trails to waterfalls in Minca, kick back in Santa Marta, and finish strong in Medellín with mountaintop views and a nightlife scene to match. From slow travel moments to fast-paced fun, this one's got it all.

Optional Activities  

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
- Bike Rental (9USD per person)
- Boogie Boarding

Bocas del Toro
- Surf Lesson (45USD per person)
- Bioluminescence Tour (25USD per person)
- Bike Rental (5-10USD per person)
- Sunset Snorkelling Tour (25USD per person)

Boquete
- Whitewater Rafting (65USD per person)
- Lost Waterfall Hike (38USD per person)
- Horseback Riding (40USD per person)
- Hiking (40-85USD per person)
- Coffee Plantation Tour (30USD per person)
- Boquete Cycling

Valle de Antón
- Cerro Gaital Hike
- Valle de Anton Hot Springs

Panama City
- The Shaping of Panama and Miraflores Locks Excursion
- Panama Canal Visit (25USD per person)
- Metropolitan Natural Park Visit

Cartagena
- Naval Museum of the Caribbean Visit (6000COP per person)
- Islas del Rosario National Park (320000-350000COP per person)
- Palace of Inquisition (Museum) Visit (30000COP per person)
- Night Exploration on Chiva (80000COP per person)
- Gold Museum Visit (7000COP per person)
- Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno) Visit (5000COP per person)
- Cartagena City Tour

Minca
- Pozo Azul
- Hiking Jungle Trails Near Minca

Santa Marta
- Gold Museum Santa Marta (Free)
- Quinta San Pedro Alejandrino (23000COP per person)

Medellín
- Explora Park (24500-37500COP per person)
- Modern Art Museum (10000COP per person)

Cerro Nutibara
- Nutibara Hill (Cerro Nutibara) Visit

Highlights  

Catch Caribbean waves and soak up the beach vibes in Puerto Viejo, Island-hop through crystal-clear waters in Bocas del Toro, Hike lush trails and hidden waterfalls in Boquete's cloud forests, Explore Valle de Antón nestled inside an extinct volcanic crater, Disconnect with three nights on the remote San Blas Islands run by the Guna people, Wander the colourful colonial streets of Cartagena's walled city, Sleep in jungle hammocks and discover natural pools in Minca and Palomino, Wrap it all up with Medellín's buzzing energy and epic mountaintop views

Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

Money Exchange  

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of COP Colombian Pesos, travellers cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Tipping  

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use.  Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $7- 10 USD per person, per day can be used.

International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, and local indigenous community guide.

Max Pax  

16

Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Important Notes  

Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. Some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour after your trip concludes.

Health  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Please note your trip travels to high altitude. This is medically defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Most people can travel to 8,000 feet with minimal effects. However, everyone reacts to altitude differently and altitude sickness can on set with some people irrespective of fitness and age. For details on how to best prepare and what to do in the unlikely event you are effected on your Adventure, please consult your physician.

Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

About our Transportation  

This trip combines a variety of transportation types. At G Adventures, we believe that getting there is half the fun. When it comes to getting around, public transport is often the best and most colourful way to go. You'll be using a combination of planes, public

What to Take  

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage.

Group Size Notes  

Max 16, Avg. 14.

Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Meals Included  

11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners

Meals  

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Transport  

Public bus, walking, private vehicle, ferry, boat, plane

Accommodation  

Hostels (8 nts, multi-share), Hotels/Guesthouse (15 nts), Basic Island Huts (3 nts, multi-share).

Group Leader Description  

All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.

About Accommodation  

A variety of styles of hotels/hostels are used on this trip. In many instances, they might not be like what you are used to back home as service and efficiency can vary.

Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.

Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.

Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Colombia (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.

Please note your accommodations while in the San Blas Islands will be very basic and multi-share. Remember, this allows you to experience the authentic nature of the islands while supporting the local indigenous community's efforts in keeping it as undeveloped as possible while still allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine beauty found here.

Packing List  

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Joining Instructions  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.


Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

Laundry  

Laundry availability is dependent on the location you're in or the amount of time spent in that location.

We suggest packing enough clothing in case laundry is not available and/or packing laundry soap so you can wash things if needed.

Finishing Point Instructions  

If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Local Community Focused Chocolate Experience, Bocas del Toro
Your G for Good Moment: Tour Comuna 13 Guide Local, Medellín
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Big Night Out Moment: Bocas del Toro
Your Discover Moment: Boquete
Your Discover Moment: Panama City
Your Big Night Out Moment: Panama City
Your Big Night Out Moment: Santa Marta. CEO-led Orientation Walk of Puerto Viejo. Biking in Puerto Viejo. CEO-led Orientation Walk - Bocas del Toro. Starfish Beach Visit. Panama City CEO-led Orientation Walk. 3-night San Blas Islands Stay supporting the local ingenious community. Guna Indigenous Community Visit & Presentation. Island Visits. Free time in Puerto Viejo, Bocas del Toro, Boquete, Valle de Anton, Panama City, San Blas Islands, Cartagena, Minca, Palomino, Santa Marta, and Medellín. CEO-led orientation walks in old town Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Guatapé. Walk to the Marinka Waterfalls outside of Minca. Tayrona National Park visit and moderate hike. Palomino beach bonfire. Comuna 13 visit and tour. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.