From Beginner to Kayaker in 9 Days

Day 1 - Kayaking Fundamentals & River Practice

Arrive at José María Córdova International Airport and transfer to your hotel in El Poblado, Medellín’s vibrant and cosmopolitan district. Depending on your arrival time, meet your instructors and receive an introduction to the adventure ahead before your first night in Colombia.

Day 2 - First Strokes in Guatapé

Meet your instructor and get fitted with your equipment before traveling to Guatapé. Begin your training on the calm waters of the reservoir while learning essential paddling techniques, boat control, balance, and steering. End the day exploring the colorful town of Guatapé before spending the night on a traditional countryside farm.

Day 3 - Skill Progression & Eskimo Roll Practice

Return to Guatape to continue developing the skills learned the previous day. Practice new paddling techniques, improve boat control, and paddle to a small island for lunch. In the afternoon, learn the fundamentals of the eskimo roll and build confidence through practical exercises and educational games before transferring to San Rafael, where you will spend the night at a permaculture farm surrounded by nature.

Day 4 - First Whitewater Experience

Iit's time to leave flat water behind and experience your first whitewater river. Learn how to read currents, identify obstacles, and understand how moving water affects your kayak. Discover key features such as eddies, hydraulics, and river hazards while developing the skills needed to navigate whitewater safely. This first experience on moving water marks an important step in your progression as a kayaker.

Day 5 - Rescue Skills & Mini Slalom

Continue refining your skills on a gentle river section. Together with your instructor, learn how to analyze currents and identify the best route through rapids before applying the techniques needed to navigate them successfully. The day includes rescue drills and realistic safety scenarios designed to improve your confidence and independence on the river. Later, take part in a mini slalom course where you'll practice precision turns and advanced eddy-turn techniques.

Day 6 - Full Río Guatapé Descent

Today you'll tackle your first full whitewater river descent. After breakfast, head to the upper section of the Río Guatapé and paddle approximately 8 kilometers of Class II and III rapids. Navigate crystal-clear water flowing between giant white granite boulders and lush tropical rainforest while putting your newly acquired skills into practice. Enjoy lunch beside the river and, toward the end of the day, take on your first small waterfall drops. This unforgettable day marks your transition from student to whitewater kayaker.

Day 7 - Río Buey Expedition

Travel to Santa Bárbara to begin a true kayaking expedition. Learn how to pack and load your kayak with overnight gear before setting off into one of Antioquia’s most remote river valleys. Paddle several hours of Class II and III whitewater surrounded by mountains, tropical forests, and landscapes that can only be reached by river. At the end of the day, set up camp beside the river and spend the night in sheltered hammocks while sharing stories and an outdoor dinner with the group.

Day 8 - Remote Canyons & Return to Medellín

Wake up beside the river and enjoy breakfast before continuing your journey down the Río Buey. The route passes through spectacular canyons rich in birdlife, wildlife, and dramatic scenery that make this region one of Antioquia’s hidden gems. After several hours on the river, finish the expedition and enjoy lunch in town before returning to Medellín. Along the way, make scenic and cultural stops before enjoying your final night in the city.

Day 9 - Departure Day

Transfer to José María Córdova International Airport for your return flight. Head home with a strong foundation in whitewater kayaking, valuable river experience, and unforgettable memories from some of Colombia’s most spectacular waterways.

Start-point

The tour begins at Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport, where the Expedition Colombia team welcomes participants before starting this nine-day adventure. From there, all ground transportation is organized to ensure a smooth progression between Medellín, Guatapé, San Rafael, Santa Bárbara, and the different rivers used throughout the course.

- Day 1 -

Food: Not included
Accommodation: Hotel in Medellín


- Day 2 -

Food: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Traditional farm stay in Guatapé


- Days 3 to 6 -

Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Permaculture farm in San Rafael


- Day 7 -
Food: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Riverside hammock camp on the Río Buey


- Day 8 -

Food: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Medellín


- Day 9 -

Food: Breakfast

What is the food like ?

Enjoy a combination of traditional Colombian cuisine, fresh locally sourced ingredients, and meals prepared by rural families, local cooks, and expedition guides. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

For breakfast and dinner, you'll have access to a fully equipped kitchen at the accommodation to prepare your own meals. A variety of restaurants can also be found nearby.

What is the accomodation like ?

Throughout the experience, you will stay at La Mestiza, a comfortable countryside house located just 15 minutes from our operational base. The accommodation remains the same for the entire program, providing a relaxed and welcoming environment after each day on the river. Guests also have access to a fully equipped shared kitchen where they can prepare their own meals and enjoy time together with the group.

This expedition travels through a variety of Antioquian ecosystems, from mountain lakes to tropical valleys and jungle rivers. Temperatures generally range between 18 °C and 30 °C depending on altitude and location. River days are typically warm and humid, while evenings can be cooler in higher elevations.

• All transportation throughout the expedition
• Certified professional bilingual instructor (Spanish, English, and French)
• Complete kayaking and safety equipment
• Meals throughout the expedition
• Accomodation (& camping equipment for expedition nights (hammock, tarp, lightweight sleeping bag, and dry bags))
• Medical Assistance Policy

• International flights
• Following meals are not included : Day 1 (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Days 2 & 8 (Dinner) and Day 9 (Lunch & Dinner) all other meals are included
• Personal expenses
• Tips

What do I need to bring?

• Lightweight quick-dry clothing
• Long-sleeve shirts for paddling
• Comfortable shorts or trousers
• Closed-toe river shoes or water booties
• A pair of dry shoes
• Sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Rain jacket
• Insect repellent
• Headlamp
• Clothing for the 9-day trip
• Passport for foreigners or ID for nationals. Physical document required.