Immersion in Kogui Village 3 days

Name: Immersion in Kogui Village
Brand: Remote Expeditions
SKU: 237146
Price: 595 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (23 reviews)

Overview

From 595 USD 3 Days / 2 Nights Walking Grade: Moderate

Itinerary At a Glance

Day 1

Départ vers Quebrada Del Sol

Click to see on map

Day 2

Nuit en village indigène

Click to see on map

Day 3

Break Barlovento

Click to see on map

Trip Details

Country

Colombia

Group Size

8 Travelers Max

Seasonality

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

NOV

DEC

Schedule

Relax

Tour Type

Private Trip

Thematics

Cultural Immersion
Trekking

FROM

595 USD

* price per person in base 2 people

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Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Départ vers Quebrada Del Sol

Overnight Altitude: 280m (919 ft)

Chivilongui 3 days (Day 1/3)

Morning departure for Quebrada Del Sol. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our hosts. We’ll begin with a visit to Mulkwakungui, an integrated village working hand in hand with local farming communities. Here, you’ll meet the village authorities and share in a discussion about your project, followed by a delicious traditional lunch. In the afternoon, we set off on foot towards our next destination — Chivilongui, a charming village nestled 3.5 hours away along scenic trails. Enjoy an authentic introduction to village life before settling in for the night.

Distance: 7.7 km (4.8 mi)

Difficulty: Moderate

↑ 394 m (1,293 ft)

↓ 258 m (846 ft)

Start: 115 m (377 ft)

End: 250 m (820 ft)

Avg: 283 m (928 ft)

Local Guide
Transfer from Los Linderos to Quebrada Del Sol

Duration: 20minDistance: 11 km (6.8 mi)Vehicle: 4x4
Lunch
Night in Chivilongui

Hammock | $ | 280m (919 ft)

Night in a hut

DAY 2

Nuit en village indigène

Overnight Altitude: 280m (919 ft)

Chivilongui 3 days (Day 2/3)

Take part in local activities, meet with families, and visit community leaders to learn more about their culture.

Easy
Local Guide
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Night in Chivilongui

Hammock | $ | 280m (919 ft)

Night in a hut

DAY 3

Break Barlovento

Breakfast
Chivilongui 4 days (4/4)

Distance: 6.9 km (4.3 mi)

↑ 222 m (728 ft)

↓ 404 m (1,325 ft)

Start: 238 m (781 ft)

End: 57 m (187 ft)

Avg: 239 m (784 ft)

Local Guide
Lunch
Transfer from Quebrada Del Sol to Los Linderos

Duration: 20minDistance: 11 km (6.8 mi)Vehicle: 4x4

Would you like to make this tour private?

This tour is customizable and can be made private. Contact me, and I’ll help tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences!

Inquire Now

Hotels

Chivilongui · 2 nights

Night in Chivilongui

Hammock | $ | Altitude: 280m (919 ft)

During this stay, we will eat what the Kogis eat. We will sleep with a Kogui family located right next to the village. Hammocks are provided, but we recommend that you take warm clothes for the night, lanterns and sleeping bags.

Services to Expect

Accommodation: Authentic Expedition Shelters

Summary: Your nights in the high mountains are a core part of this expedition’s authenticity. This is not a hotel stay; it is a deep immersion into a traditional, self-sufficient way of life, sleeping in the same rustic shelters used by the Kogi people during their sacred pilgrimages.

The Purpose of the Huts: These are not tourist accommodations. They are simple, functional shelters made from natural materials, providing essential protection from the elements. They exist in harmony with the environment and are maintained to a traditional standard, not a commercial one.
Sleeping Arrangements: You will sleep as the Kogi do in these mountains—on a simple mat on the floor or in a hammock. This is expedition-style lodging, designed for practicality and connection to the earth.
Facilities & Amenities: To be perfectly clear, the experience is about disconnecting from the modern world.
- There is no electricity, no running water, no toilets, and no showers. You will be living as people have in this region for centuries.
- The heart of the hut is the central fire, where your guide will cook your meals. The smoke helps keep insects away and provides warmth.
The Value of Simplicity: The price of this journey reflects the extreme rarity of the experience, the complex logistics, the expertise of your indigenous guides, and the privilege of access to sacred lands. It does not reflect the comfort of the accommodation. This is a unique opportunity to shed modern comforts and experience the Sierra Nevada on its own raw and powerful terms.

Focus of the Expedition: A Wilderness Trek

Summary: This journey is designed as a deep immersion into the wild, sacred landscapes of the Sierra. While it includes meaningful cultural interactions, it is not an experience centered on living within a community and participating in daily village life.

A Trek into the Wild: Your first night provides a wonderful introduction to a Kogi village. From the second day onwards, however, the expedition’s focus shifts to the trek itself. You will venture into largely uninhabited territory, following ancient paths through the wilderness.
Remote Pilgrimage Huts: Your accommodation after the first night will be in simple, remote huts. These are not family homes but functional shelters used by the Kogi during their own spiritual pilgrimages. The experience is about solitude, nature, and understanding the landscape’s sacred geography.
Seeking a Different Kind of Immersion? We understand that some travelers are looking for an experience centered more on cultural immersion and daily life within a community. We also offer these types of journeys. If your primary interest is to stay with a local family and share in their daily routines, please let us know. We would be happy to provide you with information on tours designed specifically for that purpose in other indigenous villages throughout the Sierra Nevada.

Meals During the Trek

Summary: Mealtimes on the expedition are a highlight of the communal experience, offering simple, hearty food prepared in the heart of the mountains. Expect nourishing, high-energy dishes cooked over an open fire, designed to refuel you after a long day of hiking and shared in a spirit of teamwork.

Authentic Campfire Cooking: All your meals will be skillfully prepared by your local guide over a wood fire. This is a traditional and sustainable method used in the Sierra. The menu is thoughtfully designed to be high in carbohydrates and energy to fuel your demanding daily hikes.
A Communal Experience: Mealtimes are a chance for the group to come together, share stories from the trail, and relax. Everyone is encouraged to participate in simple tasks like fetching water, helping prepare vegetables, or assisting with cleanup. This teamwork fosters a wonderful sense of camaraderie and is a core part of the expedition spirit.
What to Expect on Your Plate: Given the remote logistics, our menu relies on non-perishable, easy-to-carry ingredients that pack well. Typical meals will include dishes based on rice, pasta, lentils, and local vegetables like plantains or yucca. Lunches are often simpler, designed for a quick and energizing break on the trail.

Crucial: Dietary Restrictions: All meals for the duration of the trek are included in the trip price. Due to the extreme remoteness and the impossibility of purchasing supplies en route, it is absolutely essential that you inform us of any and all dietary restrictions, allergies, or strong preferences well in advance. This allows our team to plan and pack accordingly to ensure your needs are safely met.

Practical Information

Weather in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

Summary: The period from December to February is the “dry season” in the Sierra Nevada, offering the most stable and ideal conditions for trekking. However, this is a tropical mountain rainforest, so “dry” is relative. Expect intense humidity, the potential for rain, and trail conditions that demand proper preparation.

The “Dry” Season (December – February): This is the best time for hiking, characterized by a higher probability of sunny mornings and clearer skies. While rainfall is significantly lower than in other seasons, brief, localized showers are always a possibility, especially in the afternoons as clouds build up over the peaks. January is the driest month and considered the absolute peak season.
Transitional Period (Late November / Early December): Traveling at the start of the season means you’ll witness the Sierra at its most breathtakingly vibrant and green, right after the end of the heavy rains. The trade-off is a higher chance of frequent, though typically short-lived, midday or afternoon downpours. Trails will be correspondingly wetter and muddier.
Intense Humidity & Jungle Climate: The single most important factor to prepare for is the pervasive, high humidity. It is a constant in the jungle environment. This means you will feel damp, you will sweat continuously while hiking, and your clothes will take a very long time to dry out (if at all).
Temperatures: Expect warm to hot and humid days, with temperatures often reaching 25-30°C (77-86°F) in the lower elevations. As you ascend, the evenings and nights become pleasantly cool and refreshing, providing a welcome break from the daytime heat.
Trail Conditions: Expect Mud. Even in the driest months, the trails in the Sierra Nevada rarely dry out completely due to the humidity and forest canopy. You will encounter muddy, slippery sections and possibly several small river crossings. Proper, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip are not just a recommendation; they are essential for your safety and comfort. This is a fundamental part of the authentic Sierra Nevada trekking experience.

Detailed Trip Notes, including practical tips and cultural insights, will be sent to you upon finalizing the payment.

Know before you go

An Expedition, Not a Tourist Trek

Summary: Many travelers have heard of the popular Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) trek. This expedition is a fundamentally different experience, offering a level of remoteness, authenticity, and solitude that simply no longer exists on the main tourist trails. This is a journey for adventurers seeking a genuine connection with the wild.

Profound Solitude vs. Crowded Trails: The Lost City trail hosts hundreds of hikers every single day. In stark contrast, our route takes you into profoundly remote territory. The high-altitude lagoons and sacred mountains we visit are seen by only a handful of outsiders each year. You are not following a crowd; you are one of the very few non-indigenous people to ever walk these paths.
Raw Wilderness vs. Tourist Infrastructure: The Lost City trek follows a well-established route with large, permanent camps built for tourist throughput. Our expedition is an immersion into the wild. We rely on basic, traditional shelters and simple camps that leave a minimal footprint. This is about being a guest in a pristine environment, not a customer in a jungle hostel.
Private Journey vs. Group Tour: This is a private, guide-led expedition. While this results in a higher cost due to the complex logistics, the value is immeasurable. It provides unparalleled flexibility and fosters a deep, personal connection between you, your guide, and the indigenous hosts. The focus is on the quality and depth of your personal experience.
A Connection to the Past: Ultimately, this journey is a deliberate step away from the modern world. There is no Wi-Fi, no cell service, no tourist infrastructure. It is an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, the past, and a pace of life governed by the sun and the trails. It is less a “tour” and more a pilgrimage into one of South America’s last truly wild and sacred places.

Discretion & Protecting these Sacred Places

Summary: This journey is a rare privilege, granting access to places and communities untouched by mass tourism. To protect the cultural integrity of our indigenous hosts and preserve this unique experience for the future, we practice and ask for a shared commitment to discretion in how you share your adventure.

The Threat of Over-Exposure: In the age of social media, we’ve all seen pristine locations become overwhelmed after being “discovered” online. Influencers and YouTubers, often seeking attention, can reveal exact locations on maps, leading to an uncontrolled influx of visitors. This can quickly erode the very authenticity and cultural balance that make these places so special.
Our Policy of Discretion: To act as responsible partners with the indigenous communities, we do not publicly disclose the exact names or GPS coordinates of the remote villages and sacred sites you will visit. This information is shared only in private communications with our confirmed travelers. This is our fundamental commitment to preventing the negative impacts of mass tourism.
Your Role as a Guardian of the Experience: We absolutely encourage you to share your incredible photos, videos, and stories. Your experience is worth celebrating! When you do, we respectfully ask you to join us in this protective effort:
- Please refrain from geo-tagging specific, non-public locations (e.g., the sacred lagoon, the name of the remote settlement). Tagging a broad, public region like “Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia” is perfectly fine.
- Avoid showing maps or providing explicit directional details in your public posts, videos, or blogs.
The Power of Responsible Recommendation: The most powerful and respectful way to share this experience is through personal, word-of-mouth recommendation. If you want to recommend this journey to others, please do so with trusted friends or family who you know share similar values of respect, physical preparedness, and cultural sensitivity.

By being mindful of what you share, you are no longer just a visitor; you become a guardian of this experience and an ally to the communities who have so graciously hosted you.

Entering Sacred Territory: Respecting the Land & Its People

Summary: The Sierra Nevada is not simply a mountain range; it is a living, sacred entity to the indigenous peoples who are its guardians. This is especially true of the high-altitude lagoons, which are considered portals to the spiritual world. Your presence in these areas is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility to act with reverence and deep respect.

The Lagoons are Sanctuaries, Not Swimming Pools: The sacred lagoons are the spiritual heart of the mountains. They are considered the origin of life, places of immense power, and sites for offerings and spiritual cleansing by the Mamos (spiritual leaders). Therefore, swimming, bathing, or even wading in the lagoons is strictly and unequivocally forbidden. To do so would be a profound act of desecration.
A Clean State of Mind: The indigenous concept of ‘entering a sacred place’ extends beyond physical actions to include one’s mental and spiritual state. You are asked to approach these sites with a calm, positive, and respectful mindset. The belief is that the energy you bring with you can affect the place itself. Leave behind anger, stress, and negative thoughts. Be present, be mindful, and tread with a quiet heart.
Leave No Trace, Take Only Memories: This universal principle is elevated to a spiritual level here.
- Nothing Left Behind: All waste, without a single exception (including organic matter like fruit peels), must be packed out.
- Nothing Taken Away: Do not pick flowers, disturb plants, move stones, or take any “souvenirs” from the natural environment. You are a silent observer, leaving the land exactly as you found it, as a sign of respect for its sacred integrity.
Follow Your Guide’s Lead: Your indigenous guide is not just a navigator; they are your cultural interpreter and a steward of this land. They will show you where it is appropriate to walk, to rest, and to observe. There may be places where you are asked not to take photographs or to remain silent. Adhering to their guidance is the ultimate sign of respect for their culture and their ancestral territory.

Meeting with the indigenous

Some of us have high expectations of meeting local people, especially when it comes to native communities such as the Kogi Native Americans. It is our duty to prepare travelers for this meeting so as not to generate misunderstandings and frustrations.

The Kogis are not professionals in the tourism or hotel business. They accept to welcome us because we come to explore their territory and we ask them to supervise our hikes.

On these occasions, they receive us as guests and the community treats us with attention. The Kogis assume their role as hosts but sometimes we may not be their first priority. As in any society, community life is full of unexpected events. A family event, a visit, a spiritual gathering or many other reasons may result in the absence of one of the members of the village or focus the attention of the community elsewhere.

The exchanges with the Kogis are frank and honest and this is the best proof of respect they can give us. The Kogis don’t speak English. Your guide knows the codes of the community, so listen carefully. He will know how to build an interesting dialogue and tackle subjects that will arise spontaneously. Spanish speaking travelers will have the chance to exchange directly with the villagers and will enrich the meeting.

In general, whether it is at the Kogi’s, or other groups, the meetings organized at the inhabitant’s home are not a commercial service like a taxi ride or a night in a hotel. They depend on the willingness of hosts and visitors to share and be attentive. We always choose to collaborate with welcoming and relevant initiatives and the experience is new and fresh with each trip.

Carpe diem, let’s savor what we are given and let’s not harbor any illusions.

Safety & Expedition Realities

Summary: Your safety is our highest priority, a responsibility we manage through expert local guidance, thorough preparation, and a clear understanding of the environment. It is crucial to recognize that this expedition takes you into a region with no external support infrastructure.

Expert Local Guidance: Your indigenous guide is your primary safety asset. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and potential hazards is unparalleled. They are trained in wilderness first aid and carry a comprehensive first-aid kit. Following their instructions and judgment is paramount at all times.
The Reality of Remoteness: You will be trekking in an extremely remote area, several days’ walk from the nearest road or formal medical facility. There is no cell phone reception, and immediate helicopter evacuation is not an option. This self-reliance is a core part of the experience.
Evacuation Protocol: In the event of an illness or a non-life-threatening injury that prevents a person from walking, evacuation will be by traditional means—typically by mule. This is a slow and arduous process that can take days. This reality underscores the importance of preventative measures.

Your Responsibility: Your proactive participation in your own safety is essential. This includes:

Arriving in excellent physical condition, as fatigue is a leading cause of accidents.
Informing us of any pre-existing medical conditions or allergies well in advance.
Bringing a sufficient supply of any personal medications you require.
Making conservative, careful decisions on the trail.

Recommendations

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical expenses, personal injury, and other unforeseen events. It is your responsibility to ensure that your insurance is adequate for your needs.

Physical Preparation for Your Trek

Summary: This expedition is a strenuous multi-day trek through a remote mountain jungle. The combination of steep terrain, high humidity, and heat makes it a significant physical challenge. A strong level of hiking-specific fitness is essential, not just for your enjoyment, but also for your safety and the group’s progress.

The Nature of the Challenge: This is not a casual walk. You will face long days of hiking that include significant and sustained elevation gains and descents. The trails can be muddy, slippery, and uneven. The constant high humidity will be physically taxing, sapping energy faster than in drier climates.
Optional Mule Support: To help lighten your load on the trail, it is possible to hire an additional mule to carry your personal daypack. Please be aware that this service comes at an additional cost and requires advance logistical coordination with our local partners. If you wish to use this service, please notify us with significant anticipation, preferably at the time of booking. This option helps with weight, but it does not eliminate the need for a high level of fitness, as you will still be trekking the same challenging terrain.
Recommended Training Regimen: To prepare, we strongly recommend you begin a dedicated training program at least 2-3 months prior to departure. Your focus should be on building cardiovascular endurance and leg strength.
- The Best Practice: The ideal training is to hike regularly on hilly or mountainous terrain, for several hours at a time, while carrying a daypack with weight (5-7 kg / 10-15 lbs).
- Gym & Home Alternatives: Supplement your hiking with activities like running, cycling, and using a Stairmaster or elliptical machine. Incorporate strength training, especially squats, lunges, and core exercises, which are vital for stability and preventing injury on steep descents.
Break In Your Gear: Your training is the perfect time to break in your waterproof hiking boots. Arriving with new, untested boots is the surest way to get blisters and compromise your trek. This is also a good opportunity to test the socks, daypack, and clothing you plan to bring.

A high level of fitness will allow you to move beyond the physical effort and fully immerse yourself in the incredible landscapes and profound cultural experience of visiting the indigenous communities of the Sierra Nevada.

A detailed packing list will be sent to you 90 days before departure

What to pack?

What to Pack: A Summary

Summary: Packing for the Sierra Nevada is an exercise in managing humidity, rain, and mud while keeping your gear lightweight. The core principles are moisture management (quick-drying fabrics are mandatory), protection (from sun and insects), and complete self-sufficiency.

Clothing: The Jungle Uniform:

No Cotton: This is the most important rule. Opt exclusively for lightweight, synthetic, or merino wool fabrics that wick sweat and dry quickly.
Layering System: Bring 2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts, one long-sleeved shirt for sun/bug protection, and a light fleece for cool mountain evenings.
Rain Gear is Non-Negotiable: A high-quality, breathable rain jacket is essential. A poncho is highly recommended as it offers better ventilation and can easily cover both you and your daypack.

Footwear: Your Most Critical Gear

Hiking Boots: Well broken-in, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip are mandatory for the muddy and uneven terrain.
Socks: Pack 3-4 pairs of wool or synthetic hiking socks to keep your feet as dry as possible.
Camp Shoes: Bring lightweight sandals or Crocs to give your feet a break at camp and for potential river crossings.

Essential Trekking & Tech Gear

Daypack: A comfortable 20-25L daypack, ideally with a hip belt and a dedicated rain cover.
Dry Bags: These are crucial. Use them inside your daypack to protect spare clothes, electronics, and your passport from the pervasive dampness.
Headlamp & Power Bank: There is no electricity. A headlamp is essential for the evenings, and a high-capacity power bank is the only way to recharge your devices.
Sleeping Gear & Comfort: Sleeping bags and basic yoga-style mats are provided for you at each camp. For significantly more comfort and insulation from the ground, you are welcome to bring your own lightweight, inflatable sleeping mat.

Health & Hygiene: Be Self-Sufficient

Insect Repellent: A strong repellent is vital to protect against the very itchy bites of “no-see-ums” (jejénes), which are most active at dusk.
Personal First-Aid: While the guide has a kit, bring your own with essentials like blister treatment (moleskin), painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.
Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen and a sun hat are crucial for protection during exposed sections of the trail.

A detailed packing list will be sent to you 90 days before departure

Gallery

kogui indigenous family in sierra nevada de santa marta colombia

Price Details

Our tour prices are based on a tiered pricing model. more guests = lower price, per person. That means the prices go down on a per-person basis as more people book onto a specific tour departure. Prices are based on double occupancy / twin share basis.

Price Base

Price for 1 person: 695 USD
Price for 2 people: 595 USD
Price from 3 to 4 people: 595 USD
Price from 5 to 6 people: 595 USD
Price from 7 to 8 people: 595 USD

* Price is indicated per person

Included

2 nights in Hammock.
Local guide in Chivilongui (Chivilongui 3 days (Day 2/3))
2 breakfasts, 3 lunchs, 1 dinner
Professional photographic guidance & instruction by Tristan Quevilly
Pre-trip planning assistance
Access to Remote Expeditions custom travel app
Transportation in comfortable vehicles
A digital photo album of your trip, featuring 100–200 images.
Detailed trip notes with practical information and cultural insights.
Pre-trip planning assistance
Detailed trip notes with practical information and cultural insights
Access to Remote Expeditions custom travel app

Not Included

Dinner on Arrival day.
Domestic flights
International flights
Additional drinks and meals
Medical insurance
Expenses not specified in the program
Tips
Travel, Medical & Cancellation insurance
Additional drinks and meals
Expenses not specified in the program
Camera Equipment
Tips

Deposit

30% per person (The last payment must be completed 90 days prior to the start of the trip.)

Payment Options

Bank Transfer (Recommended): Free
Credit / Debit Card: Secure payment via Revolut. A 3% processing fee applies.

Key Booking & Cancellation Terms

Booking this tour means you agree to our full Terms and Conditions. Below is a summary of the key points. As life is unpredictable, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.

Deposit:A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. This deposit is refundable for 7 days (less transaction fees),after which it becomes a non-refundable credit, transferable to a future tour offered by Remote Expeditions within 4 years of the cancellation date, less any non-recoverable costs already paid on your behalf.
Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before the tour begins.
Cancellation more than 90 days before departure: You will receive a full refund of any payments made, except for the 30% deposit. Your deposit will be converted into a travel credit valid for 4 years on a future tour Remote Expeditions.
Cancellation within 90 days of departure:100% of the tour price is forfeited. There are no refunds or credits.

* This is a summary only. Please read our complete Terms and Conditions for full details before booking.
** We strongly recommend all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events.

Our Promise

Investment Protection: Flexible cancellation options (please check our Terms and conditions).
Personalized Attention: Small group size ensures dedicated guidance.
Authentic Experience: Focus on genuine connection and off-the-beaten-path moments.

Testimonials

Colombia Birding Tour

I visited Colombia with Tristan of Remote Expeditions and would highly recommend him. He put together a wonderful itinerary with great knowledge of the areas and attention to details to give us a wonderful sampling of the country. He is personally very gentle and fun by nature and you will return home feeling very happy and satisfied. Whatever your special interest is, I’m sure he can make an itinerary to exceed your goals.

Elaine Uellendahl

USA

Un séjour de 4 semaines en Colombie magique sur tous les plans

Un séjour de 4 semaines en Colombie qui a été magique sur tous les plans : organisation, déroulé, rencontres avec les locaux, découverte de la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, la synergie du groupe, l'accompagnement personnalisé de Tristan ! D'un grand calme, d'une grande écoute et toujours adaptable, Tristan nous a fait oublier que derrière ce voyage il y avait une organisation au cordeau et une chaîne d'intervenants tous très efficaces et pros dans leurs domaines. Le choix des hébergements / restaurants ont toujours été tops aussi. Bref un séjour mémorable dans un pays fabuleux avec un guide au top qu'on n'oubliera pas ! Merci Tristan !

Isabelle Turquet

France

The Magical Mystery Tour!

In March 2026, I ventured out of my comfort zone and booked an 11 day photography tour with Tristan, through Remote Expeditions.
It was amazing. Truly remote, we visited several indigenous communities in the Sierra Nevada, first to meet them and find out a little about their way of life and second lay to photograph them. Additionally there were several opportunities for photographing birds, landscape and City Scenes in Cartagena.
We were fortunate enough to to be a small group, of two , which I was more that happy to pay a premium for. This gave us an intimate experience with the people we met along the way, additionally the 1:1 attention to our personal interests in photography was incredible.
Tristan was a real treat! He has spent the last 10 years living in and exploring this region of Colombia. He has cultivated relationships with the indigenous peoples of the area, and loves to share his understanding of their culture with you.

He structured the tour perfectly. He was organized, knowledgeable (about the land, its people and photography), compassionate, passionate and eager to share his vast internal encyclopedic information with you. When he didn’t know, he would quickly get you the information.
The remote places you get to, by 4x4, hiking and boating are exceptional. You could never find these places on your own.
Knowing little about Colombia, I was initially a little hesitant to take this tour. Having just returned, I wouldn’t hesitate for a nanosecond.
What ever type of tour you take with Tristan, you won’t be disappointed. He delivered everything he he promised, and a few amazing surprises more.

Judy Ustina

Canada

Activities you might be interested in

These are suggested experiences that have not been included in the itinerary, mainly due to time constraints. If you would like more information about any of them or wish to include them in the itinerary, feel free to let me know.

camarones sff flamingos guajira colombia

Flamingo tour by boat

Early wake up early to join a small sailboat to capture the elegant flamingos at sunrise, with the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in the background.

2h30min
easy

minca mundo nuevo colombia wiwa sierra nevada de santa marta

Photo Activity in Awindua

Private photo session with a Wiwa family. We will take the time to establish a private contact with them in this small village of 4 huts, and create unforgettable portraits.

3h
easy

Fishermen in boat near stilt houses on water.

Nueva Venecia Boat Tour

Nueva Venecia is a magical floating village built entirely on stilts over the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, Colombia's largest lagoon complex and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Arrival by speedboat through chocolate-colored waters teeming with birds and mangroves, then explore the vibrant wooden houses, church, and soccer field of this living community of over 3,500 inhabitants. It's a one-of-a-kind immersion into Colombia's "amphibious culture" — a real-life Macondo straight out of García Márquez.

easy

Request Price

Tubbing on Rio Don Diego

3h
easy

from $22 ^{per person}

Boat tour on Rio Don Diego

Then, river trip along the Rio Don Diego ending in the sea. Our expert guide will help us to observe various species of birds, howler monkeys, tiny crocodiles called Babillas, etc. He will also tell us cultural & historical anecdotes in the Taironaka Museum.

Practical Information

Weather in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

The “Dry” Season (December – February): This is the best time for hiking, characterized by a higher probability of sunny mornings and clearer skies. While rainfall is significantly lower than in other seasons, brief, localized showers are always a possibility, especially in the afternoons as clouds build up over the peaks. January is the driest month and considered the absolute peak season.
Transitional Period (Late November / Early December): Traveling at the start of the season means you’ll witness the Sierra at its most breathtakingly vibrant and green, right after the end of the heavy rains. The trade-off is a higher chance of frequent, though typically short-lived, midday or afternoon downpours. Trails will be correspondingly wetter and muddier.
Intense Humidity & Jungle Climate: The single most important factor to prepare for is the pervasive, high humidity. It is a constant in the jungle environment. This means you will feel damp, you will sweat continuously while hiking, and your clothes will take a very long time to dry out (if at all).
Temperatures: Expect warm to hot and humid days, with temperatures often reaching 25-30°C (77-86°F) in the lower elevations. As you ascend, the evenings and nights become pleasantly cool and refreshing, providing a welcome break from the daytime heat.
Trail Conditions: Expect Mud. Even in the driest months, the trails in the Sierra Nevada rarely dry out completely due to the humidity and forest canopy. You will encounter muddy, slippery sections and possibly several small river crossings. Proper, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip are not just a recommendation; they are essential for your safety and comfort. This is a fundamental part of the authentic Sierra Nevada trekking experience.

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Itinerary At a Glance

Départ vers Quebrada Del Sol

Nuit en village indigène

Break Barlovento

Trip Details

Inquire

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Detailed Itinerary

Départ vers Quebrada Del Sol

Chivilongui 3 days (Day 1/3)

Transfer from Los Linderos to Quebrada Del Sol

Lunch

Night in Chivilongui

Nuit en village indigène

Chivilongui 3 days (Day 2/3)

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Night in Chivilongui

Break Barlovento

Breakfast

Chivilongui 4 days (4/4)

Lunch

Transfer from Quebrada Del Sol to Los Linderos

Hotels

Gallery

Price Details

Our Promise

Testimonials

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