Cartagena to Quito on a Shoestring image
Operated by G Adventures

Cartagena to Quito on a Shoestring

From
Price on request
Duration
21 days
Countries
Ecuador, Colombia
Activity
active

The adventure

Colombia is an underrated country for travellers, but with our safe, social, and budget-friendly group trips, we want to change that. After all, there’s so much culture and beauty to this region that it would be a shame to let it go unexplored – plus you can say you got here before everyone else. Over three weeks, you’ll go from Colombia to Ecuador, hiking to the Lost City of Teyuna, relaxing on warm beaches and camping under the stars in the Tatacoa Desert. You’re sure to find something you love in these countries.

At a glance

Duration
21 days
Route
Cartagena → Quito
Countries
Ecuador, Colombia
Activity level
active
Style
Beach & Islands, Culture & History, National Parks & Wilderness, Trekking & Hiking, Wildlife & Safari
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Cartagena to Quito on a Shoestring image

Day by day

Breathtaking aerial shot of Cotopaxi Volcano with a lone house in El Corazón, Ecuador. Perfect for nature lovers.
Your journey through

Ecuador & Colombia

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time. Tonight, check out the local flavor of bustling Plaza Trinidad and head to a local bar to get to know your fellow travellers. Get to know the group over a few drinks and get excited for the adventure of a lifetime.
Arrive at any time. Tonight, check out the local flavor of bustling Plaza Trinidad and head to a local bar to get to know your fellow travellers. Get to know the group over a few drinks and get excited for the adventure of a lifetime.
Day 2Day 2Itinerary details are available from G Adventures.
Densely packed urban buildings in Amman, Jordan captured from above, showcasing cityscape.Day 2
Itinerary details are available from G Adventures.
Day 3Travel in comfort by private bus…
Travel in comfort by private bus to the port town of Santa Marta. Take advantage of your free time with a visit to the Gold Museum, go shopping for any last minute necessities (You probably forgot something, right?) or chill out on the beach.
Day 4Wake up and hit the road to Machete…
Wake up and hit the road to Machete Pelao where your trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Enjoy and let it all soak in – this is your opportunity to get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Day 5Venture further into the lush jungle en route…
Venture further into the lush jungle en route to Ciudad Perdida. Be prepared – today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep views. Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon for some much needed relaxation by the river.
Day 6Wake up early feeling refreshed
Wake up early feeling refreshed, recharged (hopefully!) and start your trek to Paso Lorenzo Camp. Settle in at the campsite around noon and eat some lunch. If the weather is nice, take a dip in the Buritaca River. Learn about Wiwa customs in the afternoon and then kick back and relax in a hammock.
Day 7Today is the day to discover the wonders…
Today is the day to discover the wonders of La Ciudad Perdida. Climb the 1200 ancient steps and explore the different sacred sites of Lost City. Later, continue trekking through the deep jungle today on winding paths through banana trees and cacao plants as you make your way to Wiwa Camp.
Day 8Head across grassy hills and gentle streams…
Head across grassy hills and gentle streams to reach the Gotsezhi Wiwa indigenous community. Enjoy a G Adventures-supported community lunch cooked by women from the community with local ingredients. Learn about Wiwa customs on a village visit and then lounge in a hammock by the river. In the afternoon, return to Taganga for a well deserved night in a hotel.
Day 9Head into Tayrona National Park for a moderate…
Head into Tayrona National Park for a moderate hike with a local guide. This is a perfect opportunity to experience nature and learn a little more about the rich, natural diversity of northern Colombia.
Day 10Wheels up! Fly inland today to Medellín
Wheels up! Fly inland today to Medellín. A once infamous city, vibrant Medellín has transformed into one of Latin America's safest destinations. Get to know your surroundings with an orientation walk and an optional night out with the group.
Day 11Choose what to explore today on a free day
Choose what to explore today on a free day. Opt to visit the nearby town of Guatapé, with its colourful houses and famous rock. Or, ride the metrocable, a cable car part of Medellín’s public transportation, for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Day 12Drive through beautiful landscapes to SalentoEnjoy exploring Salento and getting a feel for the town.
Enjoy exploring Salento and getting a feel for the town.
Day 13Opt to take a morning hike through…
Opt to take a morning hike through the towering palms of the Cocora Valley, or choose from a variety of other optional activities in the coffee region of Quindío.
Day 14Enjoy the ride to Colombia's capital, Bogotá
Enjoy the ride to Colombia's capital, Bogotá.
Day 15Enjoy a free day to explore the capital…
Enjoy a free day to explore the capital of Colombia. Opt to ride the funicular up for a stunning view, visit the impressive gold museum, or check out the street art.
Day 16Enjoy the ride to the Tatacoa Desert…
Enjoy the ride to the Tatacoa Desert to spend the night under the stars.
Day 17Head out into the impressive Tatacoa desert…
Head out into the impressive Tatacoa desert and explore the rocky canyons. The morning is free to choose how you wish to explore, opt to go for a hike or go horseback riding. After, travel to Popayán.
Day 18Head further south to Pasto
Head further south to Pasto, wander around and keep an eye out for local ice cream makers out in the streets.
Day 19Visit the striking Lajas Sanctuary
Visit the striking Lajas Sanctuary, built on a bridge in a lush gorge, this neo-Gothic church is sure to impress. After, cross the border into Ecuador and continue on to the indigenous community of San Clemente for the night.
Day 20Enjoy the morning in the indigenous community…Quito
Aerial view of Quito featuring Panecillo Hill and Virgin statue, capturing historic architecture and vibrant cityscape.Quito
Enjoy the morning in the indigenous community of San Clemente. Interact with the locals and learn about their traditional ways. Later, travel to Otavalo market before heading on to Quito for the night.
Map showing Quito
Day 21Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.
Depart at any time.

Discover Ecuador

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Majestic view of Cotopaxi volcano surrounded by vibrant wildflowers under a clear blue sky.
Stunning aerial view of Quilotoa Crater Lake surrounded by mountains under a vibrant blue sky.
A stunning aerial view of the hillside towns and lush greenery in Quito, Ecuador.
Breathtaking view of Cotopaxi Volcano in Ecuador, showcasing barren, eroded landscapes and clouds.
Explore the tranquil beauty of a remote lake nestled amid lush mountains, offering a peaceful escape.
Operated by G Adventures

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