This trip is designed for you to progressively explore the rivers of the region. The itinerary can be adjusted based on water levels and the group’s skill level. In addition to paddling, you’ll also have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich local culture of the Antioquia region.
The base for this trip is Cocorná, a small valley in eastern Antioquia. There’s also the possibility to extend the journey and head to San Gil, a well-known town in the Santander region, where we can explore the Suárez, Chicamocha, and Fonce Rivers.
FROM NOVEMBER TO MARCH
Arrival at Medellín international airport. No need to worry—we’ll pick you up. We’ve got a vehicle ready for you and your gear.
You’ll stay at our “Kayak Hostel La Mestiza”, strategically located in the Cocorná River Valley, giving you easy access to all the rivers in the area. Here, you’ll meet our experienced local guides who know the rivers and the culture and will make sure you enjoy the experience safely. You’ll also have the chance to connect with other kayakers from around the world who share your passion.
We’ll start with the upper section of this river—perfect for a first warm-up day. This Class III section with some Class IV rapids will let you practice scouting and get a feel for the area. With breaks between major rapids, you’ll enjoy sandy beaches and spectacular surroundings.
We’ll explore the Santo Domingo River, which flows through a deep jungle valley. With a similar difficulty level (Class III–IV), its boulder garden terrain will help you refine your rapid-reading and safe paddling techniques.
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Just five minutes from our hostel, the Cocorná River—one of our favorites—offers 8 km of continuous Class IV rapids. You’ll be able to paddle as much as your body allows. We’ll also use this day to prep gear and go over the details of our upcoming two-day expedition to the Samaná River.
Our adventure into the Samaná River canyon begins. Just an hour’s drive away, this stunning river—the last free-flowing one in the region and currently threatened by a hydroelectric project—offers a unique experience. We’ll paddle through granite canyons and jungle-lined rapids full of biodiversity. With 40 km of Class III–IV rapids, we’ll camp riverside and enjoy a night under the stars in the heart of nature.
We continue paddling the Samaná, facing thrilling rapids like “White Russian.” Depending on the group and conditions, we may continue through the final canyon (optional) or finish at the confluence with the Guatapé River. Either way, we’ll celebrate in the village of Narices and head back to the hostel through lush landscapes and historic towns like Granada.
Depending on the flight schedule we can take the opportunity to paddle an extra day or do some tourist activity such as the Cacao Route. Transfer to Medellín.
Time to say goodbye, share photos and videos, and maybe start planning our next adventure together—whether back in Colombia or somewhere new.
For those seeking even more adrenaline, we offer an extension to the Santander region, home to the famous Suárez River. With continuous Class IV rapids and steep drops, this river is globally known for its slides, boulder gardens, and drops. A truly epic finale to your Colombian kayaking journey!
As passionate experts of this Andean country, we want to give you the chance to discover and enjoy its rivers in all their diversity—from exciting creeks to powerful big-water runs like the iconic Samaná.
But it’s not all about water and adrenaline—we also want you to soak up the vibrant culture of this colorful country, feel its musical rhythms, and enjoy its tropical climate.
Colombia is much safer than you might think—and we’re not just talking about the rivers!
For over a decade, the country has welcomed tourists from all over the world, including kayakers. Our program is based in a quiet valley where you’ll feel at ease, staying alongside fellow paddlers.
Plus, you’ll always be accompanied by our guides, making sure you feel right at home.
The rivers in this program are Class III/IV. If your level isn’t quite there, we can adjust the difficulty. If you’re confident on Class III/IV, we can also include harder sections. The trip is flexible based on group needs.
There are slalom courses available at some points to improve paddling and safety techniques if we want a more relaxed afternoon.
Since this is a nature-based sport, river levels may vary. We’ll adapt to flows and weather to minimize surprises as much as possible.
8 DAYS KAYAKING IN COLOMBIA
FROM €1700/PERSON
EXTENSION TO SANTANDER, 12 DAYS FROM €2200/PERSON
· Must know how to swim
· Personal kayak gear
· Have completed at least one RESCUE3 course
· Minimum 2 participants, maximum 4
· Accommodation
· Shuttle to and from the river
· Multiday gear
· Activity insurance
· Kayak guide
· Flights
· Kayak and personal gear (available for rent)
· Food and drinks (shared among group or paid individually)
We’re open to other proposals. If your skills aren’t yet up to this trip’s level, we can adjust the program. We also offer skills training during the tour to help you get the most out of the experience.
