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Which airport do I need to fly into? Plus airport code
Fly into Bogotá Airport (BOG) and fly out of Rafael Nuñez International Airport in Cartagena (CTG).
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What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?
Before 5 pm ideally. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 7 pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 30 minutes away from the airport.
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What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. The airport is approximately 15 minutes away from the hotel.
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Are airport transfers included?
If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.
Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.
We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. However, your Pack Leader will offer you support with finding a local taxi, which will cost around 30,000 COP, the equivalent of approximately 10 USD.
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Do I need a visa?
Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.
You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:
Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.
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What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalized medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Consult with a healthcare professional
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.
2. Up-to-date medical advice
3. Government travel advice
4. Medication tips
If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.
We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.
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Are tips included?
Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:
- Pack Leader: 10 USD per day
- Drivers: 3 USD per day
- Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.
However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.
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How much should I budget per day for extras?
We already include most meals however we recommend around 150,000 COP, the equivalent of 40 USD per day for extras.
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Is Colombia safe for tourists?
Yes, and even more so on a guided group tour with Flash Pack. Colombia is one of the world’s friendliest countries, and whilst there are dangerous areas, your tour has been carefully planned with the help of expert Pack Leaders on the ground. We’re confident you’ll get nothing but enjoyment from your time in Colombia.
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What fitness levels do I need for this trip?
Overall, the trip is relatively relaxed so only a moderate level of fitness is required. However, there is a good amount of walking (at your own pace) and a climb up Piedra del Peñol on Day 3 which has 654 steps to the top, so good, worn-in walking shoes are advised.
We recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.
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Will the itinerary change?
Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.
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Is the Bijao & Malanga restaurant always open?
Every year, the Bijao & Malanga restaurant closes for a Christmas break. If you’re traveling during this time, please be aware that an alternative will be found.
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What will the hotels be like?
The hotels we stay at in Colombia have been chosen for their excellent locations and comfortable accommodation, however they are not luxurious options. While we always take care to give you the best experience, we hope you can appreciate that different countries have different standards.
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What should I pack?
Your Colombian adventure will involve a variety of activities, so you’ll need to pack a range of clothes – including a smart outfit for eating out at restaurants (formal dress for women; closed shoes, long pants and shirts for men). Generally, we recommend bringing light and breathable tops and shorts that will keep you cool, but some warmer layers may be required in the evenings.
What you pack is personal to you and our list is certainly not exhaustive. If you have any questions about what to pack for your trip to Colombia, please get in touch with one of our friendly Trip Experts.
Please note there is a 15 kg (33 lbs) suitcase and 5 kg (11 lbs) handbag limit on internal flights, so we recommend packing light.
Baggage
- A large backpack or suitcase – It’s up to you whether you bring a backpack or a suitcase, but either way, a soft-sided bag is best for packing into transfer vehicles.
- A day bag – This will need to be big enough to fit your daily essentials in, such as your water bottle and your camera.
Clothing
- Lightweight tops – T-shirts work well, but you should also bring a lightweight long-sleeved top to keep the sun off your skin if required.
- Shorts/skirts – Ideal for keeping you cool in the Colombian heat.
- Activewear – Breathable and light materials are perfect for most activities.
- Swimwear
- Sunhat/sunglasses
- A poncho – You might not need one, but there is a slight chance of rain all year round in Colombia.
- You may want to bring a jumper/sweater and a pair of trousers/pants for any cooler evenings.
- Linen pants are always handy for keeping the sun off of your legs.
- An evening outfit. You’ll need want some nicer clothes for going out in the cities.
Shoes
- Comfortable walking shoes – Sports trainers with good grip should be fine.
- Comfortable sneakers – You’ll need breathable, closed shoes for everyday use.
- Sandals/flip-flops – It’s a good idea to bring a comfortable pair of shoes for relaxing in.
- Evening shoes – You’ll need some smart closed shoes to wear out in the cities in the evenings.
Accessories
- Electricals, chargers and accessories – Phone, camera, chargers, etc.
- Plug socket adaptor – Type A and B plugs are standard in Colombia with two flat parallel pins.
- Refillable water bottle – This will reduce your group’s plastic footprint.
- Book or music – For transfers and any relaxed evenings, you might want a book or some music.
- Eye mask and earplugs – If you’re a light sleeper, you may feel more comfortable bringing these as a precaution.
- Beach towel – Hotels will provide bath towels, but you will need a towel for the water-based activities and for swimming in the sea. Travel towels work well and pack down very small to save space.
Toiletries/medical
- Any personal medication you require
- Personal toiletries – Including a toothbrush, deodorant, razors, hairbrush etc.
- Painkillers
- Anti-bacterial gel
- Plenty of insect repellent
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer
- High SPF factor sun cream
