Kuoda’s Guide To Planning A Friends Getaway To Colombia

July 31, 2023 | by: Kuoda Authors

Planning a friends’ getaway in Colombia is an exciting opportunity to create unforgettable memories and embark on an adventure together. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, Colombia offers a myriad of options to suit every taste and interest. Whether it’s exploring historic cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, immersing yourself in nature, or indulging in culinary delights – the stunning wonders of Colombia offer the perfect combination of activities, accommodations, and destinations for everyone in the group.

College reunions, birthdays, and holidays make for the perfect opportunity to get together, travel and explore new parts of the world. With personalized itineraries and in-depth consultations with travel planners – get started planning your friends’ getaway, with Kuoda.

The flights:

Direct flights from the United States to Colombia have flight durations typically between 3 to 6 hours.

Direct flights from the United States to Colombia provide convenient and efficient travel options for those seeking to explore this captivating South American destination. Major airlines offer non-stop flights connecting various U.S. cities to Colombia’s major airports. For example, American Airlines operates direct flights from Miami (MIA) to Bogotá (BOG), Medellín (MDE), and Cartagena (CTG). Delta Air Lines offers non-stop flights from Atlanta (ATL) to Bogotá and Medellín, as well as from New York (JFK) to Bogotá.

With flight durations typically ranging from 3 to 6 hours, travelers can easily reach their desired Colombian destination without the need for layovers or connections. These direct flights provide a seamless travel experience, allowing visitors to maximize their time exploring the vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage of Colombia. 

The Destinations:

Medellín: A modern, vibrant city with trendy neighborhoods, a lively nightlife, and innovative infrastructure.

Colombia offers an array of stunning destinations that provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable friend’s getaway, combining vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and exciting experiences. Picking the best destinations that work for everyone is a matter of understanding everyone’s interests. Places like Cartagena and Medellin offer great cultural escapes, while destinations like Cocora Valley and San Andres provide quiet, yet picturesque places to get away. Here are our top picks for the best destinations for your group of friends:

• Cartagena: The city’s historic walled city provides a picturesque backdrop for exploring together, with its colorful streets, charming architecture, and lively ambiance. Whether you’re wandering through the vibrant markets, enjoying delicious seafood at local restaurants, or dancing the night away in the energetic clubs, Cartagena offers a blend of history, culture, and nightlife that is perfect for creating unforgettable memories with friends.
• Medellín: The city’s modern infrastructure, trendy neighborhoods, and vibrant nightlife make it an ideal place to explore with friends. From enjoying the trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants in the vicinity of Poblado to experiencing the panoramic views from the cable car ride to Parque Arví, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure and fun. Medellín’s transformation into a dynamic and innovative city adds an extra layer of excitement to your friend’s getaway.
• Cocora Valley: The coffee region, such as Salento or Manizales, offers a unique and immersive experience that is perfect for a group of friends. Exploring the lush landscapes of coffee farms together, learning about the coffee-making process, and picking your own coffee beans create memorable bonding moments. The charming town of Salento provides a picturesque backdrop, with its colorful architecture and relaxed atmosphere. Hiking through the enchanting Cocora Valley, home to towering wax palms, adds an adventurous touch to the trip. This experience allows you to savor the flavors of Colombia while enjoying the company of friends in a serene and natural setting.
• Bogotá: Bogotá, the vibrant capital city, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it a great destination for a friend’s getaway. Exploring the historic La Candelaria neighborhood together allows you to delve into the city’s rich history, admire the colonial architecture, and visit renowned museums like the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum. Bogotá’s lively food scene offers a chance to sample local delicacies and enjoy dining experiences together. The city’s energetic nightlife, with its array of bars, clubs, and live music venues, ensures that the fun continues into the late hours of the night. With its mix of culture, nightlife, and gastronomy, Bogotá provides a dynamic backdrop for an exciting and memorable friends’ getaway.
• San Andrés: Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and laid-back Caribbean charm, San Andrés offers an island paradise that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days sunbathing on white sandy beaches, swimming in the warm Caribbean Sea, and snorkeling to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Take a boat tour to nearby secluded cays, where you can enjoy picnics and beach parties with your friends.

In the evenings, stroll along the beach promenade, savor delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, and immerse yourselves in the island’s vibrant nightlife. With its picture-perfect scenery and a wide range of activities, San Andrés sets the stage for an unforgettable friend’s getaway filled with sun-soaked days, tropical vibes, and endless fun.

The Activities:

Enjoy private salsa lessons in cities like Cartagena, withoffer personalized instruction.

From sailing to wellness retreats, Colombia offers something for everyone. Take a glimpse of the activities that can be planned on your upcoming friends’ getaway.

• Coffee Tasting: The Coffee Triangle region, encompassing cities like in the Cocora Valley, is at the heart of Colombia’s coffee production.With its reputation for producing some of the world’s finest coffee beans, the Cocora Valley provides an ideal setting to indulge in the art of coffee tasting. From the aroma of freshly roasted beans to the delicate flavors of different coffee varieties, you’ll learn about the nuances of taste, acidity, body, and aroma. These tastings often showcase exceptional single-origin coffees and carefully crafted blends, highlighting the unique characteristics of Colombian coffee.
• Private Yacht or Boat Charter: Indulge in a luxurious experience by chartering a private yacht or boat to explore the stunning coastline of Cartagena. Sail around the Rosario Islands, anchor in secluded bays, and enjoy personalized service on board while soaking up the sun and taking in the beautiful views.
• Exclusive Shopping Experience: Cartagena is home to a vibrant arts and crafts scene, and you can enjoy a luxury shopping experience by visiting high-end boutiques and galleries. Discover unique fashion items, artisanal jewelry, and locally made handicrafts that reflect the city’s vibrant culture and craftsmanship.
• Spa and Wellness Retreat: Pamper yourself with a luxurious spa and wellness retreat in Cartagena. Many high-end hotels and resorts offer world-class spa facilities, where you can enjoy rejuvenating massages, body treatments, and relaxation therapies in serene and opulent surroundings.
• Snorkeling in San Andres: Snorkeling in San Andrés offers an unparalleled underwater experience in the Caribbean Sea. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, the island is a snorkeler’s paradise. As you explore the underwater world, you’ll encounter an abundance of colorful fish, fascinating marine life, and stunning coral formations. Whether you choose to snorkel right off the shore or join a boat excursion to nearby sites, the visibility and biodiversity of San Andrés make it a remarkable destination for snorkeling.
• Tasting Menu at Carmen: The tasting menu at Carmen in Cartagena is a culinary journey that takes you on an exquisite exploration of flavors, textures, and creativity. This renowned restaurant embraces contemporary Caribbean cuisine, infusing it with innovative techniques and presentations. The tasting menu at Carmen offers a carefully curated selection of dishes that showcase the richness and diversity of local ingredients, expertly combined to create a symphony of tastes. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully plated with meticulous attention to detail. From succulent seafood creations to perfectly cooked meats and vibrant vegetarian options, the tasting menu at Carmen is a celebration of the region’s culinary heritage.
• Private Salsa Lessons: Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced dancer wanting to refine your skills, private salsa lessons provide individualized attention and tailored instruction. With professional instructors who are passionate about salsa, these lessons allow you to learn at your own pace, focusing on technique, footwork, styling, and partner work. Through personalized guidance, you can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of salsa while embracing the joy and energy it brings. Private salsa lessons in cities like Cartagena, Colombia offer an opportunity to connect with the country’s lively music, local culture, and warm-hearted people.
• Helicopter Tour: For a truly luxurious and unique perspective of Cocora Valley, consider a helicopter tour. This allows you to soar above the picturesque landscapes, providing breathtaking aerial views of the towering wax palms and lush surroundings. The experience offers an unparalleled vantage point and allows you to cover a larger area in a shorter time, immersing yourself in the beauty of the valley from a luxurious and privileged perspective. 

The Hotels:

Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is housed in a former convent and offers a blend of colonial charm and modern luxury.

Colombia’s luxury hotels provide an enchanting blend of colonial elegance, contemporary design, and warm hospitality, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the country’s unique charm and experience the utmost comfort and sophistication. Explore some of our top picks for your friends’ getaway:

• Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena: This iconic five-star hotel in Cartagena is housed in a former convent and offers a blend of colonial charm and modern luxury. With luxurious rooms, a stunning courtyard pool, a spa, and exceptional dining options, it provides an elegant and upscale retreat for friends.
• The Charlee Hotel, Medellín: Located in the trendy neighborhood of El Poblado, The Charlee Hotel is a stylish and contemporary boutique hotel. It features chic rooms, a rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views of the city, an upscale restaurant, and a vibrant rooftop bar, making it an ideal choice for a luxurious friends’ getaway.
• Casa San Agustín, Cartagena: Situated within Cartagena’s historic walled city, Casa San Agustín offers a luxurious and intimate atmosphere. The hotel features beautifully restored colonial architecture, elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, a spa, and a renowned restaurant, creating a tranquil and sophisticated setting for a friends’ retreat.
• Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina, Bogotá: Nestled in Bogotá’s upscale Zona G district, the Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina showcases a blend of Spanish colonial architecture and modern sophistication. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, a fitness center, and exceptional dining options, providing a luxurious and pampering experience.
• Hacienda Bambusa, Cocora Valley: Located in the midst of the picturesque Cocora Valley, Hacienda Bambusa offers a luxurious and serene retreat. This boutique hotel combines rustic charm with modern comforts, featuring beautifully appointed rooms, lush gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding cloud forests. The hotel provides personalized service, a gourmet restaurant, a spa, and outdoor activities such as horseback riding and hiking, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with nature in a luxurious setting.

Planning a luxury friends’ getaway to Colombia becomes even more seamless and exceptional when booking with a travel planner who can help your group embark on a tailor-made journey, designed to cater to your group’s preferences and desires.

Work with a knowledgeable travel advisor who will curate a meticulously planned itinerary, selecting the finest luxury accommodations, arranging private transfers, and securing exclusive experiences such as private tours, VIP access to attractions, and reservations at renowned restaurants for you. Travel with personalized service on your luxury friends’ getaway to Colombia, and elevate the trip to new heights, ensuring that every moment is filled with opulence, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Sit back, relax, and let Kuoda transform your dream trip into a reality, as you and your friends indulge in the very best that Colombia has to offer. Reach out to us today to learn more.