expedition Indiana Jones adventure Colombian Amazon tepui Cerro Morokko Jirijirimo waterfall Amazon tributaries Vaupes jungle Barasana tribe abandoned coca plantations Pablo Escobar Mzungu ethnographer Jurgen Kuller Amazonia Orinocia ethnographic research

Dassanech Karo tribe Bulls jumping ceremony Assale Afar
Get ready for a true Colombian kaleidoscope – a journey through what is possibly the brightest country in South America!

We'll start in Bogotá, a modern capital at 2,600 meters, home to the world's best Gold Museum and the colorful La Candelaria district. We'll then whisk away to the natural wonder of Caño Cristales – the legendary "River of Five
Colors," renowned as the most beautiful river in the world.
We'll explore the Valle de Cocora with its majestic wax palms reaching 60 meters in height, and coffee plantations producing the world's best coffee. Pablo Escobar's cousin will show us Medellín and its remarkable
transformation into a world-class cultural hub.

The cherry on top will be our expedition to the unique Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains and our immersion into the culture of the enigmatic Wiwa people, famous as the guardians of the ancient wisdom of the Tayrona
civilization. They coexist in perfect harmony with nature and, by their own beliefs, spiritually maintain the balance of the entire planet.

And we will conclude our adventure in the perfect resort city – colonial Cartagena, where every inch breathes history!

This expedition is a big Indiana Jones-like adventure deep in the Colombian Amazon and a unique chance to meet Barasana tribal group that contacted with an outer world only few times. The passionate German ethnographer who discovered this Barasana group in 2017, shares his feelings:
The expedition is co-led by our expert – the German passionate ethnographer Jurgen Kuller – a unique traveler who has been to Amazonia and Orinocia for ethnographic research far more than 10 times, of which twice in the Barasana tribe.

SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: October 16 – 27, 2026

Duration: 12 days / 11 nights

Number of participants: 7 – 12

Cost per person:

  • 4 150 USD with 12 participants,
  • 4 250 USD with 10 – 11 participants,
  • 4 350 USD with 8 – 9 participants,
  • 4 550 USD with 7 participants.

Early booking discount: 10% (for bookings made before April 16, 2026)

Everything is included (including 4 domestic flights), except for:
— International flights to Bogotá and return from Cartagena,
— Colombian visa (not required for Russian citizens),
— Medical insurance,
— Some lunches and dinners.

Estimated cost of international flight  Moscow – Bogotá and Cartagena – Moscow: from
USD 1,800.

Single accommodation: 530 USD (provided throughout the itinerary).

The program can be combined with the expedition to Venezuela — from the Orinoco Delta to Angel Falls (October 28 – November 6, 2026). The program is currently under development, but early booking is available.

It can also be combined with the Argentina + Paraguay + Uruguay + Brazil expedition (October 4 – 15, 2026).


TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to Colombia

Day 1. October 16, 2026 (Friday). Arrival in Bogota

Arrival at El Dorado Airport in Bogota, the capital of Colombia, situated 2,600 meters above sea level and rapidly becoming one of Latin America's urban centers with a population of over 7 million. Check-in at a hotel located in the old historic district of La Candelaria, surrounded by numerous cafes, museums, and churches.

Meals included: None
Accommodation included: Hotel BH Bicentenario or similar

Recommended flights:
  • Turkish Airlines, with a 1h 5m layover in Istanbul, departure from Moscow on
October 16 at 2:50 AM, arrival in Bogotá on October 16 at 13:40,
  • Any other flight arriving in Bogotá from any city at any time on October 16.

Day 2. October 17, 2026 (Saturday). Bogotá

We will start the day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a fascinating tour of Bogotá. The first stop on our route will be the famous cable car that will take us to the top of Cerro de Monserrate hill (3,159 meters). From this height, a breathtaking panoramic view of the city unfolds.
Next, we will stroll through the historic La Candelaria district, enjoying magnificent examples of colonial architecture, ancient churches, and vibrant street art. During the tour, we will visit the city's main square—Plaza de Bolívar—and also stop by the famous Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which houses unique exhibits telling the rich history of the region. We will end the day with lunch at one of the local restaurants, where we can sample the delights of Colombian cuisine.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Hotel BH Bicentenario or similar


Day 3. October 18, 2026 (Sunday). Bogotá — La Macarena

In the morning, we will head to the airport for an early flight to La Macarena National Park. Upon arrival, we will register with the National Park and have an organizational meeting with the team representatives.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we will take a 20-minute motorboat ride on the Guayabero River. During the trip, with a bit of luck, we might see squirre monkeys, hoatzins, scarlet macaws, and Orinoco crocodiles.
After this, we will transfer to a 4x4 off-road vehicle and head to the Cajuche source, from where our trek to Cristalitos will begin. We will return to the village of La Macarena late in the evening.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hostal Cano Nevera


Day 4. October 19, 2026 (Monday). La Macarena — Caño Cristales

Today we will explore another section of Caño Cristales, known as "Brazo Pianos," with its various colors, waterfalls, and natural pools. Here we will understand why Caño Cristales is considered the most beautiful river in the world. It is simply an incredible rainbow fireworks display, dominated by shades of red, yellow, blue, and green. Long strands of purple, scarlet, pink, and, where there is less sun, greenish algae called Clavija macarinense (scientific name verified: Macarenia clavigera), which grow only here, cover the bottom like a bright, soft carpet, swaying under the water's pressure. The river is surrounded by the Caño Cristales National Natural Park. In deeper areas, the uneven bottom forms natural hollows: deep, colorful, round wells—"moyas." Swimming in these pools is like being reborn. Extraordinary peace and lightness. A complete absence of people, only the sun, jungle, sky, green moss-covered warm stones, a falcon hovering high in the hot air searching for prey, and this crystal-clear, colorful, cool water penetrating every cell of your body.
We will return to La Macarena in the evening, where we will witness a local cultural event, including folk music, dances, and Colombian gastronomy with the local residents.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hostal Cano Nevera


Day 5. October 20, 2026 (Tuesday). La Macarena — Bogotá —Pereira

After breakfast, we prepare for our flight to Pereira via Bogotá. Our departure from La Macarena will be before noon. Therefore, early in the morning, we will head into nature to witness the magical sunrise in the Colombian Llanos, when bird songs and the murmur of the river bring the landscape to life. Upon arrival in Bogotá, we will either immediately transfer to a connecting flight to Pereira or first head to a good restaurant for lunch.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Hotel Balmoral Plaza Pereira


Day 6. October 21, 2026 (Wednesday). Pereira — Los Nevados National Park – Valle de Cocora — Salento (60 km, 1.5 hours drive)

Today we have a full day ahead, combining natural beauty, familiarization with local flora and fauna, and immersion into the culture of producing one of Colombia's main export products.
In the morning, we will head to Los Nevados National Park – an amazing place home to the famous Cocora Valley. The main attraction of this region is the Quindio wax palm (Ceroxylon quindiuense) – the national tree of Colombia, reaching an impressive height of 60 meters.
Here, an exciting 12-kilometer route (which can be covered on foot or on horseback) awaits us, offering a unique opportunity: to see majestic Andean condors in their natural habitat, observe bright long-tailed sword-billed hummingbirds, spot the rare blue-crowned motmot, and, of course, admire the famous wax palms.
After lunch, we will visit the Finca El Ocaso coffee plantation, which will allow us to learn the secrets of growing and processing Colombian coffee from bean to cup. Right here, we will also try the famous Colombian coffee. And don't even mention Brazilian coffee here! Colombians are sure that the best coffee in the world is only in Colombia!

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Casa Borbon or Posada de La Plaza


Day 7. October 22, 2026 (Thursday). Salento — Medellín (280 km, 5.5 hours)

Today we set off for Medellín. The journey will take almost 6 hours. After arrival and check-in at the hotel, an amazing tour awaits us to places associated with the famous Medellín Cartel and its leader – Pablo Escobar.
The tour will be conducted for us by Escobar's own cousin, from whom we will hear some family stories first-hand.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Florencia Plaza Hotel or similar


Day 8. October 23, 2026 (Friday). Medellín — Santa Marta

Today's tour through the heart of Medellín will allow us to see the impressive transformation of the city from one of the most dangerous places into a popular tourist destination in Colombia.
We will visit Pueblito Paisa – an open-air ethnographic museum recreating the traditional architecture of the region. Here, you can learn about the culture and life of the local people. After that, we will head to Barefoot Park (Parque de los Pies Descalzos) – a unique space where art meets nature. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere and a chance to unwind from the city hustle. We will also stop by Botero Plaza – the heart of the city's cultural life,
named after the famous sculptor Fernando Botero. Here you will find a museum of his works and numerous sculptures.
The highlight of our tour today will be Comuna 13. This neighborhood, once the most dangerous in Colombia, has been transformed into a thriving center of modern art. It is home to street galleries, art spaces, exhibitions, and creative workshops.
After a day full of exploring Medellín, an evening flight to Santa Marta awaits us.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Hotel Boutique Casa Carolina


Day 9. October 24, 2026 (Saturday). Santa Marta — Guachaca – Gotsezhi (70 km, 2.5 hours)

Early in the morning, we depart from Santa Marta towards Guachaca, ascending in off-road vehicles to Gotsezhi, the homeland of the Wiwa people. We are in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains – an absolutely unique place. This is the world's highest coastal mountain system: the mountains literally rise from the Caribbean coast to snow-capped peaks in just 42 kilometers. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is an isolated massif, separate and distant from the Andean ranges, which has contributed to the unique development of local cultures. For the Wiwa and other indigenous peoples inhabiting these mountains, this is not just a mountain range but sacred land, which they call the "Heart of the World" (Corazón del Mundo). After a short hike, we will be met by the indigenous people of these lands – the Wiwa people. They will guide us through the village, introducing us to their daily life and the traditions of their ancestors. The Wiwa are a ceremonial tribe. They are known as the spiritual heirs of the
Tayrona culture – direct descendants of a highly developed civilization that existed before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. The Wiwa have preserved the spiritual practices, mythology, and cosmovision of their ancestors; they maintain a spiritual connection with the mountains and the surrounding nature. The Wiwa (along with the Kogi and Arhuaco peoples)
consider themselves the "Older Brothers," responsible for maintaining the balance of the Universe. They believe that the rest of humanity are the "Younger Brothers" who, having forgotten their roots and traditions, are destroying the planet. The mission of the "Older Brothers" is to "appease" the heart of the world through spiritual practices and thereby heal the entire planet.
After a traditional lunch, we will hike to the Matuna waterfall, a sacred place for the community. Here, a conversation, or "maintaining the dialogue," as the Wiwa say, awaits us. This is an extremely important event in their culture – to gather and talk about everything under the guidance of a Mamo, the spiritual leader.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Night in hammocks under a shelter


Day 10. October 25, 2026 (Sunday). Gotsezhi — Guachaca — Palomino (50 km, 2 hours)

After a traditional breakfast, we will continue to learn about the traditions of the Wiwa tribe. Today we will witness the extraction of fique fibers from the agave plant – an integral part of their cultural identity. The fibers are washed and given to craftswomen, who dye them and weave bags, jewelry, and clothing. The women share their stories and techniques, revealing that each product carries a sacred meaning. This is more than just a craft – it is the preservation of culture. After lunch and rest, we will begin our return journey to Guachaca. From there, our vehicle will take us to Palomino, where we will arrive in the evening.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Isabella Tayrona


Day 11. October 26, 2026 (Monday). Palomino — Barranquilla – Cartagena (305 km, 6 hours)

Today we head to Cartagena; a scenic six-hour journey along Colombia's Caribbean coast awaits us. We will stop in Barranquilla at the famous monument to Shakira, erected in honor of the city's most famous singer.
We will arrive in Cartagena around 13:00, check into the hotel, and join a short sightseeing tour of Cartagena. We will stroll through the picturesque streets of the old city, see the majestic San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates. And we will conclude today by visiting the authentic Getsemaní district. This area is particularly attractive for its creative atmosphere and is a favorite spot for both locals
and tourists.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Hotel Villa Colonial


Day 12. October 27, 2026 (Tuesday). Cartagena – Return Flight

This morning we can still spend time in Cartagena – the jewel of Colombia's Caribbean coast, enjoy its architectural masterpieces, and feel the unique flavor of this amazing city.
We will visit the Santa Cruz de la Popa Monastery, located on top of Cerro de la Popa hill. This is one of the oldest buildings in Cartagena, founded in 1607. From here, a breathtaking view opens up of: the Caribbean Sea and the historic center of the city.
After lunch, transfer to the airport for your international return flight.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: No

Recommended flights:
  • Copa Airlines and Turkish Airlines, with layovers in Panama (2h 21m) and stanbul (5h 5m), departure from Cartagena on October 27 at 15:04, arrival in Moscow on October 29 at 00:40,
  • KLM, flight KL-749, departure from Cartagena on October 27 at 18:10, arrival in Amsterdam the next day, October 28, at 10:50, or
  • Any other flight from Cartagena to any city departing from Cartagena after 16:00 on October 27.

* The itinerary can be changed in the course of expedition by the decision of the team leader for the sake of the interests of the participants, due to weather conditions, flight conditions or due to safety reasons.

** The participant of expedition to Colombia must be motivated to be respectful to Wawa culture, be aware of the objectives of the expedition and possible program changes depending on weather conditions, be in a good shape and able to adapt to the new environment and culture.
Cost includes:
  • 4 domestic flights: Bogotá – La Macarena, La Macarena – Bogotá, Bogotá – Pereira, and Medellín – Santa Marta
  • Accommodation in hotels based on double occupancy (TWIN / DBL)
  • All breakfasts as per program, as well as some lunches and dinners as indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinking water provided everywhere
  • All ground transportation according to the program in all cities with air-conditioned vehicles and experienced drivers: Toyota Hiace minivan with A/C (up to 7+1) or Coaster bus with A/C (for groups of 8+1 and more); on days 9 and 10 – Toyota Prado 4x4 vehicles (no more than 3 participants per car)
  • Boats with experienced pilots
  • Entrance fee to the Caño Cristales National Park
  • Local guides and helpers throughout the route
  • All entrance tickets as per program
  • All activities and excursions according to the itinerary
  • Professional local English- and Spanish-speaking guide
  • English- and Russian-speaking team leader throughout the route


Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):

  • International flight to Bogotá and return from Cartagena
  • International medical insurance
  • Colombian visa (not required for Russian citizens)
  • Some lunches and dinners as per program
  • Soft and alcoholic drinks, and personal expenses
  • Single accommodation


To take with:

  • 3 sets of clothing (pants, long-sleeve shirt, T-shirt, underwear, socks, sun hat — synthetic materials preferred)
  • Comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight footwear (sneakers)
  • Light jacket
  • Rain poncho
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Personal first aid kit (painkillers, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration salts, intestinal remedies, and any personal medications)
  • Personal hygiene items (including towel, wet wipes, soap)
  • Headlamp
  • Sleeping bag for warm weather
  • Mosquito net
  • Various repellents for skin and clothing
  • Waterproof document case
  • Photo and video equipment
  • Extra batteries and power bank for cameras
  • Waterproof case for photo equipment (recommended)
  • Backpack for main luggage
  • Small daypack for personal items
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
  • UNIQUENESS
    We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears.
  • ADVENTURISM
    Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
  • SAFETY
    In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
  • EXPERIENCE
    We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself and professional team leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort.
  • FARE PRICE
    All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.

    ©️ Photos by Jurgen Kuller / Юрген Кюллер
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