EXPERIENCE COLOMBIA
Experience Colombia like few ever do: on two wheels, fully guided, and thoughtfully curated. This immersive motorcycle journey takes you from the Andes to the Caribbean, combining thrilling riding with cultural depth, raw nature, and carefully selected comfort throughout the route.
From Medellín’s vibrant surroundings, you’ll cross mountain ranges, rivers, natural reserves, volcanic landscapes, and remote rural regions before reaching the warm Caribbean atmosphere and the city of Cartagena. Each day brings a new terrain, a new climate, and a deeper connection to Colombia, making this tour a true expedition rather than a simple ride.
📅 Tour Overview
Duration: 11 Riding Days (16 Days Total)
Distance: 2600 km (1630 Miles)
Road Type: 80% Paved / 20% Easy Gravel (This is distance travelled, not time)
Departure: Medellín
Dates: 5-20 March 2027
💰 Pricing
Rider with private room £5,995
Rider with shared room £5,495
Passenger sharing a room with a Rider £1695
A 25% deposit is required to confirm a place. The balance of 75% is due two months before the start of the tour. You can request further information by clicking the contact button or by clicking this link
✅ What’s Included
15 nights in private rooms in selected hotels
Welcome & Farewell Dinner
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the ride in selected restaurants (Dinner
includes 3 local beers)
Rental of a CFMoto 450MT Motorcycle
Fuel for all riding days
SOAT Motorcycle Insurance (up to 30M COP bodily injury coverage)
Extra Insurance for rider and passenger (up to 40M COP extra health coverage)
Riding Gear: Helmet, Jacket, Gloves, Knee Pads, Rain Gear if required
All activities
Professional photographer (with drone)
Support Vehicle with a mechanic
Airport transfers (MDE Airport)
Guidance from an experienced bilingual (EN/SP) guide
❌ What’s Not Included
Flights
Personal travel insurance
Please note that the minimum number of riders required to run the tour is five.
The maximum number of passengers in the support vehicle is three.
Itinerary
🛬 Day 1 - Friday - Medellin
Arrival into Medellin (MDE) airport where you will be met and transported to the hotel in Medellin. Depending on your arrival time you may have time to explore the city, or relax by the rooftop pool.
Arrival into Medellin (MDE) airport where you will be met and transported to the hotel in Medellin. Depending on your arrival time you may have time to explore the city, or relax by the rooftop pool.
🏙️ Day 2 - Saturday - Medellin
After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, your guide picks you up for a guided tour of Medellín. We explore the city’s most emblematic spots, from lively plazas and historic streets to the colourful murals and vibrant street art of Comuna 13, a neighbourhood symbolizing resilience and transformation.
Lunch is included, allowing you to enjoy local flavours in a relaxed and authentic
setting. In the evening, we gather for our welcome dinner at an excellent Colombian restaurant located near the hotel.
After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, your guide picks you up for a guided tour of Medellín. We explore the city’s most emblematic spots, from lively plazas and historic streets to the colourful murals and vibrant street art of Comuna 13, a neighbourhood symbolizing resilience and transformation.
Lunch is included, allowing you to enjoy local flavours in a relaxed and authentic
setting. In the evening, we gather for our welcome dinner at an excellent Colombian restaurant located near the hotel.
🏍️ Day 3 - Sunday - Medellin to Doradal
(5h Riding, 233km, Mixed paved and gravel sections)
Load up the bikes and leave Medellin for Doradal via Guatape. After lunch, the route transitions into tropical lowland roads, with warmer temperatures and lush landscapes guiding us toward Doradal. We arrive in the afternoon at a boutique-style hotel perched like a mirador,
offering beautiful views, a swimming pool, and plenty of space to relax after the
first day on the road.
Load up the bikes and leave Medellin for Doradal via Guatape. After lunch, the route transitions into tropical lowland roads, with warmer temperatures and lush landscapes guiding us toward Doradal. We arrive in the afternoon at a boutique-style hotel perched like a mirador,
offering beautiful views, a swimming pool, and plenty of space to relax after the
first day on the road.
🌿Day 4 - Monday - Doradal to Honda
(4h Riding, 170km, All Paved)
(4h Riding, 170km, All Paved)
Today we leave the views of Doradal and head for the old colonial town of Honda. After an excellent lunch we will arrive in the afternoon at our hotel with a refreshing pool, though beware of falling mangos! We will take taxis into Honda for the evening to visit the old town and have dinner
🏔️ Day 5 - Tuesday - Honda to Manizales
🏔️ Day 5 - Tuesday - Honda to Manizales
(4h30 riding, 170km, Mixed paved and gravel sections)
We begin climbing into the Andes with a reflective visit to Armero, the site of Colombia’s most tragic volcanic eruption. Then up to Líbano and on to Murillo for lunch. We then ride Colombia’s most breath-taking road: the ascent to 4,000 meters at Nevado del Ruiz, a landscape of high-altitude magic before a gravel descent leads to our thermal spa hotel for the night where we can soak in natural pools under the stars.
We begin climbing into the Andes with a reflective visit to Armero, the site of Colombia’s most tragic volcanic eruption. Then up to Líbano and on to Murillo for lunch. We then ride Colombia’s most breath-taking road: the ascent to 4,000 meters at Nevado del Ruiz, a landscape of high-altitude magic before a gravel descent leads to our thermal spa hotel for the night where we can soak in natural pools under the stars.
☕ Day 6 - Wednesday - Manizales to Jardin
(4h30 riding, 155km, Mixed paved and gravel sections)
After breakfast, we set off north through Manizales and into the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. After a break in the colourful town of Ríosucio there is an incredible scenic gravel route toward Jardín, pausing to feed hummingbirds at over 3000m elevation. Should the gravel road be impassable due to heavy rain, or if you'd prefer the smoother route there is also an option to take the stunning paved mountain road that winds into Jardín, and we will have two guides allowing the group to split if required.![]()
☕Day 7 - Thursday - Jardin
After breakfast, we set off north through Manizales and into the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. After a break in the colourful town of Ríosucio there is an incredible scenic gravel route toward Jardín, pausing to feed hummingbirds at over 3000m elevation. Should the gravel road be impassable due to heavy rain, or if you'd prefer the smoother route there is also an option to take the stunning paved mountain road that winds into Jardín, and we will have two guides allowing the group to split if required.
☕Day 7 - Thursday - Jardin
(Rest day)
In the morning we will visit a family-run coffee farm for an authentic visit. Discover traditional production methods, meet passionate growers, and enjoy a tasting surrounded by lush hills. We then stop for lunch at a highly rated comida rápida
restaurant, popular for its quality and efficiency.
The afternoon is your own to explore the town of Jardin and in the evening, we’ll get together for dinner at an excellent local restaurant.
restaurant, popular for its quality and efficiency.
The afternoon is your own to explore the town of Jardin and in the evening, we’ll get together for dinner at an excellent local restaurant.
⛰️ Day 8 - Friday - Jardín to Santa Fe
(4h00 riding, 170km, Mixed paved and gravel sections)
We roll out of Jardín in the morning, leaving the colourful town behind as we enter a
beautiful off-road destapada route. The trail winds through coffee plantations and banana groves, offering an immersive ride deep into rural Colombia.
Lunch is enjoyed on Jericó’s main square, at a small local restaurant renowned for
its honey chicken specialty. After lunch, the road becomes a spectacular mountain descent, with twisty roads and open panoramas before a scenic stretch along the Cauca River to the old colonial town of Santa Fe de Antioquia.
beautiful off-road destapada route. The trail winds through coffee plantations and banana groves, offering an immersive ride deep into rural Colombia.
Lunch is enjoyed on Jericó’s main square, at a small local restaurant renowned for
its honey chicken specialty. After lunch, the road becomes a spectacular mountain descent, with twisty roads and open panoramas before a scenic stretch along the Cauca River to the old colonial town of Santa Fe de Antioquia.
(5h30 riding, 310km, All paved)
beginning a steady climb back into the mountains. The road winds upward through cooler jungle foothills before gradually descending towards sea-level.
We then pass rivers, wild valleys, and dense tropical scenery, where the air grows warmer and more intense before a short stop in Mutatá reveals a true rider’s secret: natural freshwater pools carved by hidden streams. Refreshed, we ride on for a Caribbean sunset at Necoclí where the day ends with a relaxed evening and a night by the sea.
🏖️ Day 10 - Sunday - Necoclí to Rincón del Mar
(5h30 riding, 289km, Mostly paved coastal roads)
We set off along the Caribbean coast, following winding seaside roads framed by
palm trees, open farmlands, and constant glimpses of the turquoise sea.
The ride flows through traditional fishing villages, where fishing boats rest on golden
sand and children wave as we pass by. Later the heat softens into a gentle coastal breeze and the road narrows, leading us toward Rincón del Mar, a hidden gem still untouched by mass tourism. This a peaceful coastal paradise, where turquoise waters meet coral shallows, hammocks sway between palm trees, and time seems to slow as the sun sets over the Caribbean.
palm trees, open farmlands, and constant glimpses of the turquoise sea.
The ride flows through traditional fishing villages, where fishing boats rest on golden
sand and children wave as we pass by. Later the heat softens into a gentle coastal breeze and the road narrows, leading us toward Rincón del Mar, a hidden gem still untouched by mass tourism. This a peaceful coastal paradise, where turquoise waters meet coral shallows, hammocks sway between palm trees, and time seems to slow as the sun sets over the Caribbean.
🌴Day 11 - Monday - Rincón del Mar
(Rest day)
Full rest day by the Caribbean, ideal for relaxation and immersion in coastal life.
Guided mangrove excursion to explore the local ecosystem and where sloths and tropical birds can be seen. The afternoon is your own, with time to relax by the sea or explore the peaceful village of Rincón del Mar.
Later if the weather permits, you can take a night swim in bioluminescent waters a magical experience swimming among glowing plankton. We are then welcomed back to the beach for freshly caught lobsters, grilled to perfection over an open barbecue, ready to be enjoyed by the shore.
Guided mangrove excursion to explore the local ecosystem and where sloths and tropical birds can be seen. The afternoon is your own, with time to relax by the sea or explore the peaceful village of Rincón del Mar.
Later if the weather permits, you can take a night swim in bioluminescent waters a magical experience swimming among glowing plankton. We are then welcomed back to the beach for freshly caught lobsters, grilled to perfection over an open barbecue, ready to be enjoyed by the shore.
🏖️ Day 12 - Tuesday - Rincón del Mar to Cartagena
(3h00 riding, 150km, Paved coastal highway)
We ride up the scenic Caribbean coast lined with palm trees, gentle lagoons, and fishing villages before arriving at the lively outskirts of Cartagena de Indias, one of South America’s most enchanting colonial cities. Our hotel, is located near the historic quarter and you have the afternoon free to explore the UNESCO-listed old town before a sunset cruise, sailing along the coastline as the sky turns shades of amber and pink.
We dine as a group inside the walled city: with it's cobbled streets, horse-drawn carriages, and music drifting through the warm night air.
☕ Day 13 - Wednesday - Cartagena to Santa Cruz de Mompox
(6h00 riding, 300km, Paved highway)
Distance: 300 km | Duration: ~6 hrs | Roads: paved inland routes.
We leave behind the sea breeze as the route heads inland into lush tropical lowlands, dotted with mango trees and small farming villages along the Magdalena River basin to Santa Cruz de Mompox, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where time has stood still since the colonial era. Evening stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring whitewashed houses, ornate balconies, and the tranquil riverfront.
(6h00 riding, 300km, Paved highway)
Distance: 300 km | Duration: ~6 hrs | Roads: paved inland routes.
We leave behind the sea breeze as the route heads inland into lush tropical lowlands, dotted with mango trees and small farming villages along the Magdalena River basin to Santa Cruz de Mompox, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where time has stood still since the colonial era. Evening stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring whitewashed houses, ornate balconies, and the tranquil riverfront.
⛰️ Day 14 - Thursday - Santa Cruz de Mompox to Sabana de Torres
(6h00 riding, 310km, Paved roads)
We roll out of colonial Mompox, trading cobblestones for wide savannah skies and flowing paved rural roads cutting through the Magdalena Medio, lined with palms, grazing cattle and reflective river passages. The final approach into Sabana de Torres is on countryside roads leading to our cabins, a calmer and greener pocket away from the highway.
🏙️ Day 15 - Friday - Sabana de Torres to Medellín
(6h00 riding, 350km, Paved roads)
We leave the calm countryside of Sabana de Torres and reconnect with Ruta 45,
heading steadily toward the mountains. We start to climb near Yarumal and the air turns cooler, as the road twists and turns with views into the Andes. Final descent into the Aburrá Valley, the world speeds up again, traffic thickens, and Medellín emerges like a reward at the end of a full riding day before our farewell dinner in the city and the end of the tour.
(6h00 riding, 310km, Paved roads)
We roll out of colonial Mompox, trading cobblestones for wide savannah skies and flowing paved rural roads cutting through the Magdalena Medio, lined with palms, grazing cattle and reflective river passages. The final approach into Sabana de Torres is on countryside roads leading to our cabins, a calmer and greener pocket away from the highway.
🏙️ Day 15 - Friday - Sabana de Torres to Medellín
(6h00 riding, 350km, Paved roads)
We leave the calm countryside of Sabana de Torres and reconnect with Ruta 45,
heading steadily toward the mountains. We start to climb near Yarumal and the air turns cooler, as the road twists and turns with views into the Andes. Final descent into the Aburrá Valley, the world speeds up again, traffic thickens, and Medellín emerges like a reward at the end of a full riding day before our farewell dinner in the city and the end of the tour.
🛬 Day 16 - Saturday - Medellín
A private transfer will take you to Medellin Airport (MDE) in Rio Negro for your flight home.
A private transfer will take you to Medellin Airport (MDE) in Rio Negro for your flight home.
Route & Schedule Notice
Hotels are subject to change depending on availability or local conditions, maintaining an
equivalent standard.
The itinerary is provided as an indication and may be adjusted due to weather conditions,
road closures, safety considerations, or unforeseen logistical circumstances. Any change will be made with participants' safety and comfort in mind.
Riders are expected to follow the guide’s instructions at all times and comply with local traffic laws.
Support & Safety
Experienced multilingual guides and local rider support. The support vehicle carries luggage, spare parts, and a first-aid kit. The driver is also a mechanic.
Guides brief daily on weather, route hazards, and riding technique.
Mandatory rider briefing and daily check-in
Photographer
A professional photographer accompanies the tour to capture the best moments. A complete photo and video package is delivered after the tour so you can relive the ride and share it with friends.
FAQ's
Is it safe?This is a question many people have asked me. Since 2023, I've run eight tours to Colombia and had no problems at all. This is the UK Foreign Office travel advice. The tour stays only within the green areas marked.
I'd suggest you leave any fancy watches and jewellery at home, don't use your expensive smart phone on the street, only travel by Uber or a licenced taxi when in the city, and don't go exploring unknown neighbourhoods at night, on your own.
I'd suggest you leave any fancy watches and jewellery at home, don't use your expensive smart phone on the street, only travel by Uber or a licenced taxi when in the city, and don't go exploring unknown neighbourhoods at night, on your own.
If you would like some extra peace of mind, Global Rescue offer a Security Package upgrade to their standard medical evacuation service. Please note that this is a rescue service and not a substitute for travel insurance. They will not pay hospital bills.
No. It is possible to do all of the tour on paved roads and we have two guides to allow the group to split.
Some of the highlights of the tour are only accessible via unpaved roads, and you will see more of the country if you can ride gravel. You don't need to be an expert, but some experience of trail riding and understanding basic riding position and how a bike behaves will be useful.
There is also an option to do a pre-tour off-road course in Colombia. If you would like to do this, please ask when booking.
In Medellin it is always spring. 15-20C at night and 22-30C during the day. It has tropical rains which can be heavy, but tend to be brief and warm. We cross the Los Nevados del Ruiz national park at an elevation of over 4000m above sea level so will be cooler for a short period and we ride to the Carribean coast where temperatures often exceed 30C in the sunshine.
I'd suggest UK summer riding gear (e.g. mesh clothing) with a waterproof layer just in case and a warmer layer for going up high. A suggested kit list will be provided prior to departure.
Yes. 100%. I wouldn't suggest you travel without it. Riding a motorcycle comes with it's own risks, much like it does at home. If you need to get out or get home urgently, then travel insurance that covers you for riding motorcycles on public roads (paved or unpaved) is essential.
If you require extra cover above your travel insurance, I can recommend checking out Global Rescue who offer an enhanced evacuation service. I've never had to use the service, but I take out the extra cover from them when travelling in remote locations, just for the days travelling. Please note that Global Rescue is not a travel insurance provider. They are a global call centre with the ability to arrange rescues from hard to reach places.
I completed a recce tour of the first week on the 450MT's in December 2025. Time didn't allow me to complete the second week, but I did fly up to Cartagena and visited Rincon del Mar to see that side of the tour. Daily reels from the recce tour of the first week are listed below.
What are the bikes?
The bikes are the CFMoto 450MT twin cylinder adventure bikes. They have six speed gearboxes, disc brakes and electric starters. They make about 45hp, and weigh around 185kg. They are faster than nearly everything else on the roads in Colombia.
What is the seat height?
The standard seat height is 820mm, which is 5cm/2in lower than a standard CRF250L. Lower seat options are available which reduce it to 800mm.
Could a non-riding partner come along?
Yes, absolutely. All of the paved sections are fine 2-up on a 450MT. For the gravel sections there are three choices:
Yes, absolutely. All of the paved sections are fine 2-up on a 450MT. For the gravel sections there are three choices:
- You ride 2-up (not recommended if muddy, unless you are experienced)
- You take a paved route instead of the gravel route. There is always a paved option.
- The passenger can travel in the support vehicle. There are three seats available and it is a modern Nissan double-cab pickup truck.
How do I book?
A 25% deposit is required to secure a place with the balance due two months before the tour starts. You can request further information by clicking the contact button or by clicking this link
Daily Reels
If you would like to see a short video about each of the days this is a list of links to the daily Instagram Reels from the December 2025 recce tour.
Medellin City Tour
Medellin to Doradal
Doradal to Honda
Honda to Manizales
Manizales to Jardin
Jardin to Cerro Tusa