Private: Viva Colombia
Mountain bike Colombia’s Andean highlands from Pereira to Medellín, riding hill towns, coffee country and dramatic landscapes.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Key Places
- Essential Info
- Accommodation
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Colombia
E-bike Option
14 Day Tour
From: £2485
Medellin to Bogota
The redspokes Colombia cycling holiday is an exhilarating journey through one of South America’s most passionate cycling nations. Beginning in Medellín, riders tackle dramatic Andean landscapes, weaving through coffee-growing hillsides, colonial towns and remote mountain regions on a route that blends physical challenge with rich cultural discovery.
Highlights include acclimatisation rides during Medellín’s famous Ciclovía, visits to traditional Paisa towns and the legendary climb of Alto de Letras, reaching 3,679m. The adventure concludes in Bogotá, where Colombia’s history and modern energy combine to provide a fitting finale to this demanding and deeply rewarding cycling experience.
Medellín
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín is one of South America’s most innovative and vibrant cities. Nestled in the Aburrá Valley and surrounded by dramatic mountains, it combines modern urban life with a fascinating history and a thriving cultural scene.
One of the highlights of visiting on a Sunday is the famous Ciclovía, when major roads are closed to traffic and opened exclusively to cyclists, runners, and skaters. Thousands of locals take to the streets, creating a unique festival atmosphere that perfectly reflects Colombia’s passion for cycling and outdoor life.
Santa Fe de Antioquia
Santa Fe de Antioquia is one of Colombia’s best-preserved colonial towns and a beautiful introduction to the country’s rich history. Once an important gold-mining centre, its cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, shaded courtyards, and historic churches have changed little over the centuries.
The spectacular descent into the Cauca Valley makes arriving here particularly memorable. Surrounded by mountains and warm tropical landscapes, the town offers a wonderful contrast to the modern energy of Medellín.
Salamina & the Coffee Highlands
Often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia’s Coffee Region, Salamina is renowned for its colourful balconies, colonial architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. Perched high in the mountains, it offers spectacular views across the surrounding valleys and coffee-covered hillsides.
The town is also an excellent base for exploring the region’s famous wax palm forests and coffee culture. Its friendly locals, charming plazas, and traditional character make it a favourite stop for many cyclists travelling through the Andes.
Alto de Letras
Alto de Letras is legendary in the cycling world and is widely considered one of the greatest road climbs on the planet. Rising through the Andes to over 3,600 metres, it challenges even experienced cyclists with its length, altitude, and relentless gradients.
The rewards are equally extraordinary. Riders pass through multiple climate zones, cloud forests, mountain scenery, and vast panoramic views that showcase the scale and beauty of Colombia’s Andes. For many cyclists, conquering Alto de Letras is a bucket-list achievement.
Marquetalia
Located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee-growing region, Marquetalia offers an authentic insight into rural Colombian life. Rolling hills covered with coffee plantations surround the town, while the aroma of freshly roasted coffee fills the air.
This is a wonderful place to slow down, visit local fincas, meet coffee producers, and learn how one of the world’s finest coffees is grown and processed. The warm hospitality and relaxed pace of life provide a perfect balance to the demanding mountain riding.
Bogotá
Colombia’s vibrant capital provides a fitting finale to the journey. Situated high in the Andes at over 2,600 metres, Bogotá blends colonial history, world-class museums, colourful street art, and a thriving food scene.
Visitors can explore the historic La Candelaria district, visit the famous Gold Museum, wander through lively markets, or simply soak up the atmosphere of one of South America’s most dynamic cities. After crossing the mountains and coffee regions of Colombia by bike, Bogotá offers a memorable conclusion to the adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Medellin
redspokes Colombia cycle tour begins in Medellin. Flights usually depart from Europe in the morning, arriving in the early evening (same day). You will be arriving in Colombia at an altitude of approximately 1500m. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the joining hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2: Medellin
On Sundays from 8am until 2pm certain main streets of Bogotá, Cali, Medellín and other municipalities are closed to cars and designated as ‘ciclovia’: available for the exclusive use of runners, skaters, and bicyclists. At the same time, stages are set up in city parks for music, yoga and other recreational events. This morning we will sort our bikes out in good time then join the locals in a bike ride around the city.
This afternoon we take a guided city tour, including a cable car ride over the barrios. Medellin the ‘city of eternal Spring’ is set in the narrow Aburrá valley surrounded by dramatic mountains. The city’s towering buildings reach for the skies. Now known for textiles and flower exports the city has had a colourful past. It is well set up for visitors to explore with a modern metro. Attractions include art galleries, museums, churches, beautiful open spaces and a vibrant night life.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Day 3: Medellin to Santa Fe De Antioquia
Now we’ve had time to sight see and acclimatise, our cycling in Colombia begins. Colombia is a terrain ideally suited to cyclists who love hills and we set off on the bikes cycling uphill for the first 15km. The rest of our day will be a downhill journey all the way to Santa Fe De Antioquia as we drop to 509m over a distance of approximately 46km. Santa Fe De Antioquia, a former gold mining town, is the capital of Antioquia within the Central Cordillera of the Andes; the town is built along the banks of the Rio Cauca.
The town’s narrow streets are characterised by colonial architecture: the whitewashed buildings are often built around courtyards with intricately carved woodwork framing the windows and doorways. There are artisan crafts and jewellery on sale and the local specialty ‘pulpo de tamarindo’; a sweet/sour confectionery made from locally grown tamarind.
Cycling Distance: 62km (44miles)
Total Climb: 1,070m (3,280ft)
Total Descent: 2,010m (6725ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 4: Santa Fe De Antioquia to La Pintada
Today, we set out on a journey that combines rolling hills with flat stretches along well-maintained roads. The route offers stunning views of the Cauca River Valley and lush coffee plantations. This ride perfectly blends physical challenge with natural beauty, making it an ideal adventure for experienced cyclists seeking both exertion and scenic splendor.
Cycling Distance: 120km (75 miles)
Total Climb: 1,195m (3,920ft)
Total Descent: 1,165m (3,822ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 5: La Pintada to Aguadas
We continue cycling along mountain ridges through the lush green mountains that characterise the Colombian countryside. The first 12km of today’s route are a relatively flat stretch of road. We then begin riding a steady upward climb for the next 15km followed by a short 2km drop before we climb again along the road that takes us to Aguadas. Set on the edge of the Caldas Mountains at the Northern end of the Caldas region, Aguadas is a 19thC town known as the ‘city of mists’. It is a typical traditional village, preserving the customs of the Paisa people in the landscape, architecture and folklore. You will receive a traditional warm welcome.
Cycling Distance: 44km (27 miles)
Total Climb: 1,850m (6,102ft)
Total Descent: 280m (918ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 6: Aguadas to Salamina
Continuing south to Salamina we have a series of ascents and descents today, dropping downhill out of Aguadas for the first 12 km. Then it’s a fairly steep uphill 8km followed by a 15km downhill. We have a final climb up to Salamina of 15km. We need to take care along this rolling, winding road as it snakes towards Salamina.
Salamina, with its well-preserved historical center and traditional Colombian atmosphere, serves as a rewarding destination. The town’s iconic red and white balconies add a unique touch to its charm. You can explore it’s cobbled streets, visit local coffee shops, and immerse yourself in the friendly ambiance of this quaint Colombian town.
Cycling Distance: 49km (30 miles)
Total Climb: 1,190m (3,904ft)
Total Descent: 1,610m (5,282ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 7: Salamina – Rest Day
Take today to fully rest and recharge – nestled high in the lush Coffee Axis, Salamina is a serene town of colonial charm and natural beauty — ideal for a rest day that restores both mind and body. Begin with a gentle stroll through the cobbled streets, admiring the beautifully-preserved whitewashed buildings with clay tile roofs, ornate wooden balconies bursting with flowers, and the elegant Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepción in the main square. Don’t miss the Parque Bolívar with its elegant German-made fountain or the Rodrigo Jiménez Mejía Cultural Center, where local history and crafts are on full display. If you’re craving fresh air and green spaces, head out to the Bosque de Palma de Cera La Samaria near San Félix, where you can walk among the giant wax palms and maybe catch sight of colourful birds. For food lovers, sample local treats like “lomo al trapo,” “huevos al vapor,” or “la macana,” paired with freshly brewed coffee on a shaded café terrace. In the evening, watch the sun set over the mountains, relaxing in the warm silence that only a heritage town like Salamina can offer.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Day 8: Salamina to Neira (Tominejo Ecoldge)
Today’s 52 km ride features rolling terrain with challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. We cycle up to over 2,000 meters before dropping into the peaceful town of Neira, known for its guadua bamboo architecture and beautiful mountain views. After a final 9 km, we arrive at Tominejo Ecolodge – Casas en los Árboles. Nestled among the trees, this unique eco-retreat offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. The treehouse-style accommodations give us an elevated perspective of the lush landscape, where the sounds of birds and the rustling canopy replace the hum of our tires.
Cycling Distance: 57 km (35 miles)
Total Climb: 1,780m (6,003ft)
Total Descent: 1, 670m (3,280ft)
Accommodation: Apartment (B,L)
Day 9: Neira (Tominejo Ecolodge) to Fresno
We begin with a 30-minute transfer to avoid the busy traffic in Manizales, setting the stage for a thrilling ascent of Alto de Letras. Known as one of the highest paved roads in the world, this climb challenges cyclists with steep gradients and stunning views of the Andes. As you pedal through cloud-covered peaks, deep valleys, and lush greenery, the road’s twists and turns test both your endurance and skill. After reaching Padua, where the accommodation is poor, a short 15-minute transfer will take us to Fresno for a more comfortable and relaxing stay to end the day.
Cycling Distance: 79km (50 miles)
Total Climb: 2,130m (6,561ft)
Total Descent: 2,990 (6,593ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L)
Day 10: Fresno to Marquetalia
Todays cycling ride, promises not only a scenic adventure but also a unique immersion into the renowned coffee region. As cyclists pedal through the picturesque landscapes, they traverse the heart of Colombia’s coffee country, where rolling hills are adorned with lush coffee plantations. The aroma of freshly grown coffee beans fills the air, providing a sensory experience unique to this region.
The undulating roads reveal the beauty of the Colombian countryside, with charming rural villages and vibrant greenery along the way. Arriving in Marquetalia, cyclists can explore the town’s colonial architecture, engage with local coffee culture, and witness first hand the historical significance of coffee in shaping the identity of this hidden gem in the heart of Caldas.
Cycling Distance: 55km (30miles)
Total Climb: 1,510m (4,625ft)
Total Descent: 1,890m (8,940ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 11: Marquetalia – Rest Day
Nestled in the lush green hills of Caldas, Marquetalia offers the perfect mid-tour rest stop between Medellín and Bogotá. This friendly mountain town is celebrated for its high-altitude coffee plantations, rolling countryside, and warm hospitality. Riders can unwind with a stroll through scenic rural trails, visit a local finca to taste freshly roasted beans, or simply relax in a café overlooking the valleys.
Beyond its stunning landscapes, Marquetalia gives a real glimpse of everyday Colombian life — from colourful fondas serving regional dishes to conversations shared over a cup of world-class coffee. It’s an ideal place to recharge body and spirit
There is the opportunity to rest and soothe those cycling muslces by relaxing by the hotel pool or taking advantage of the spa facilities. For those seeking more activity there are trekking options to explore the surrounding area.
Day 12: Marquetalia to Honda
Our final cycling day takes you through the lush, rolling hills of the Andean region, As you pedal along, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of verdant valleys and quaint villages, making every mile of the ride a rewarding experience.
As we roll into Honda, we’ll have more time on our hands to explore the town and appreciate its laid-back charm. The hotel we’ll be staying at is a gem – it comes with a swimming pool, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind and cool off after the ride.
Honda is a small town with a quaint feel. The streets have this old-style charm with cobblestones, giving it a unique character. It’s not a bustling city, but more of a laid-back spot. You’ll find it close to the Magdalena River, adding a scenic touch. Honda has a relaxed vibe, making it a nice place to wander around and soak in the local atmosphere. Check out the markets for some interesting stuff, and enjoy the simplicity and history that make Honda an interesting stop in Colombia.
Cycling Distance: 60km (45 miles)
Total Climb: 340m (2,755ft)
Total Descent: 1,690 m (1,837ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 13: Honda to Bogota
This morning with the bikes packed up, we transfer to Bogota. Once we’ve checked into our hotel you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the highlights of Colombia’s popular, vibrant capital city. There’s so much to choose from, with numerous art galleries and museums, the botanical garden José Celestino Mutis, La Quinta de Bolivar, the national observatory, the planetarium, and La Candelaria (the historical district of the city). The city has numerous green parks and a short distance away is the salt cathedral. For those wishing to extend their stay we can assist with arranging extra nights for you.
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 14: Bogotá / Home
The redspokes Medellin to Bogota cycle tour officially ends this morning. We will arrange a free transfer from the hotel to the airport for your international flight home.
(B)
Essential Info
Tour Status & Booking Conditions
- Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run
- Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received
- Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed
Tour Status Definitions
- Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
- Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
- Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
- Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
- Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
- Fully Booked – No places remaining
Booking & Payments
- A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
- Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
- Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
- By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)
Small Group Note
For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.
What’s included
Fully supported cycling holiday
- Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
- Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
- Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
- Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
- English-speaking local guide(s)
- Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs
Meal Key (used in the itinerary)
- B = Breakfast
- L = Lunch
- D = Dinner
- Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
- Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.
What’s not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips for guides and support staff
- Bike hire
- Single room supplements
Getting there and away
Tour Start
- Start location: Medellin
- Airport transfers included on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
- Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)
Tour End
- End location: Bogota
- Airport transfers included if departing on the final tour day
- Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost
Flights
- International flights are not included
- We recommend booking an an open-jaw flight arriving in Medellin on Day 1 of the Itinerary and departing from Bogota on the final day of the tour
- We are happy to advise on suitable arrival and departure airports
Accommodation
Over the course of this tour, you’ll enjoy:
- 11 nights in charming guest houses
- 3 nights in comfortable hotels
- Breakfast included daily
- Each stay is carefully selected for:
- Cyclist-friendly atmosphere Convenient locations along the route
- Group comfort and local character
- Expect a warm welcome, a good night’s sleep, and a base that supports your unforgettable cycling journey through Colombia’s vibrant landscapes.
- Our prices are based on sharing a twin room. Should you wish to have a room to yourself there is a single supplement option on most of our tours.
Eating & Drinking (Special diets)
Meals on Tour
Most meals are included in your trip price — though evening meals are excluded to give you the chance to explore local cuisine independently.
Check the itinerary for specific meal inclusions.
Dietary Requirements
The Colombian diet is predominantly meat-based, but we are happy to cater for vegetarians and other dietary preferences. Please let us know your requirements when booking.
What to Expect at Mealtimes
Breakfast
A hearty start to the day with fresh juice, coffee or hot chocolate, eggs, fruit, and bread.
Lunch (12–4pm)
Often the main meal in rural areas. Usually includes:
- A soup starter
- A main dish
- A drink
- And an optional sweet dessert
Dinner
Typically a lighter meal, though in cities, dinner is often served around 7–8pm.
Traditional Colombian Dishes
- Ajiaco – Chicken soup with 2–3 types of potato, corn, sour cream, avocado, capers & guasca
- Arepa – A cornmeal bread, served with almost every meal
- Bandeja Paisa – Grilled steak, pork rind, chorizo, rice, red beans, fried egg, avocado, and sweet banana — a Colombian favourite!
- Fresh Fruit – Colombia offers an incredible variety of tropical fruits year-round
Cycling Support
Support Vehicle
- A support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the tour
- Transports main luggage between overnight stops
- Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
- Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles
On-Ride Support
- Guides carry tools for minor repairs
- You only need a small daypack while riding
Helmet Policy
- Helmets are mandatory while cycling
- Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
- You must bring your own helmet
Bike Hire
For this tour we have brand new GW Alligator bikes with semi slick tyres and Deore components in a range of sizes and have added eBikes in a range of sizes to this tour for those needing extra zip up the hills!
What’s Included with Bike Hire
- Standard flat pedals
- Basic spares and mechanical support
Customising Your Bike
- You may bring your own pedals (SPD / clip-in)
- You may bring your own saddle if preferred
- Our guide will help fit pedals and saddles on arrival
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes, many customer do. Our Colombia tour is designed for mountain bikes or cyclo-cross bikes.
Pre-Tour Bike Servicing
To ensure a smooth ride, we strongly recommend a full bike service before departure. Pay special attention to:
- Wheel spokes – adjust as needed
- Bearings – grease thoroughly
- Gear & brake cables – check for wear and tear
- Nuts & bolts – tighten securely
- Chain, quick release clamp & tyres – inspect and replace if necessary
- Inner tubes – install new ones
- Wheel rims – check for wear
- Packing Checklist
To stay prepared on the road, bring these essential tools and spares:
- Multi-tool
- Tyre levers
- Pump
- Spare inner tubes
- Spare spokes
- Disc/brake pads (check with your bike shop)
- Chain links (a few extra)
- Spares for unique bike components (such as fluid or bleed kits)
Bike Transport Considerations
- Your bike must be included in your luggage allowance.
- Keep in mind – The average weight of a bike packed in a cardboard box is 15-20kg
- Plan accordingly, as excess baggage fees may apply
Money, Currency and Tipping
Currency
- Local currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
- Cash is essential outside major cities
- Cards are accepted in larger towns and cities
- ATMs are widely available but may charge withdrawal fees
Spending Money
- Recommended budget: £350 / $480 amount per person for the tour
- Covers meals not included, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses
Tipping
- Tipping is customary and appreciated for good service
- Suggested guideline: £60-£80/ $80-100 range per customer
- Tips are pooled and distributed by your guide at the end of the tour
Extra Costs & Optional Upgrades
- Bike hire or e-bike hire
- Single room supplement
- Extra nights before or after the tour
- Additional airport transfers
- Optional excursions or rest-day activities
Solo Travellers
- Solo travellers are very welcome
- Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
- We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
- Single rooms are usually available for an additional charge
Health, Insurance and Vaccinations
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all participants and must cover:
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
- Cycling and adventure activities
- Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
- Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking
Health & Vaccinations
- Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
- Follow advice from official travel health authorities
Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements
- A valid passport is required
- Passport must usually be valid for at least 6 months after return
- Visa requirements vary by nationality and can change
- You are responsible for checking current entry requirements
- Government travel advice websites are the most reliable source
Climate
The climate in Colombia can be considered “tropical,” but the weather varies from year to year. Due to “El Nino” and “La Nina,” the weather can go through great changes – being extremely rainy one year, and relatively dry the next.
- At altitude there can be tremendous variations in temperature between day and night time, the higher the altitude the greater the difference.
- Waterproof clothing is a must.
Equipment & Packing List
The climate in Colombia is considered tropical but can vary greatly from year to year. Weather patterns are influenced by El Nino and La Nina which can cause dramatic shifts. It’s important to come prepared with warm and waterproof gear suitable for a range of conditions.
Essential Cycling Gear
- Helmet
- Sunglasses
- Water bottles or hydration pack
- Cycling gloves
- Padded shorts
- Cycling shoes
- Base layers
- Warm mid-layer
- Waterproof jacket
- Bike lights
Other Essentials
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Camera or phone
- Personal toiletries
- Energy snacks if required
- Casual clothing for evenings
Electricity Supply -Plug & socket types
Electricity in Colombia runs at 110 volts with a frequency of 60hz. Plugs and sockets are of type A & B
Country Overview
- Republic of Colombia
- Capital Bogotá
- Population 49 million
- Area 1.14 million sq km (440,831 sq miles)
- Major Language: Spanish
- Major Religion Christianity
- Life Expectancy 71 years (men), 78 years (women)
- Currency Colombian Peso (COP)
Cycle Tops & T-shirts
Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem. Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking. Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.
Accommodation
This tour features a consistently high standard of accommodation, with stylish boutique hotels, scenic coffee-region lodges and modern city properties.
We begin at Hotel Innutu in Medellín, a contemporary boutique hotel known for its comfort, design and excellent location. As we ride through the Andes and coffee country, nights are spent in hand-picked character stays including Casa Hotel Guaracú (Santa Fe de Antioquia), Hotel Villa Camila (La Pintada), Entre Brumas (Aguadas), Casa Lola Boutique Hotel (Salamina), and the peaceful Tominejo Ecolodge in Neira.
Further along the route, properties such as Mirador Villa del Sol (Marquetalia), Boutique Mirador Las Palmas (Honda) and Victoria Imperial (Mariquita) offer comfort, mountain views and traditional hospitality. The tour ends with a night at Hotel El Dorado in Bogotá, a premium modern hotel.
Expect:
- Stylish boutique hotels and comfortable mountain lodges
- Private facilities throughout
- Warm Colombian hospitality and memorable locations across the coffee region and Andes
Photos
Here are a selection of photos for our ‘Colombia’ Cycling holiday.
Dates & Prices
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