Tour Details:
Tour Starts and Ends
Medellin, Colombia
Tour Duration
8 Days
Time Needed
9-10 days vacation
Riding Days
8
Rest Stops
21 - 23 Rest Stops
Climates
You will experience a variety of climates, from the warm and humid lowlands of Armero to the cold, crisp air of the Andean highlands near Nevado del Ruiz. Be prepared for rapid temperature changes, especially at higher elevations.
Contact Info
At Colombia Motorcycle Tour, we operate 100% remotely to provide you with the utmost convenience and flexibility. We offer private delivery options to your hotel or Airbnb accommodation of choice. Alternatively, you can pick up your rental or begin your guided tours from our preferred local hotel vendor, Hotel Poblado Alejandria.
+57 300-765-5093
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Volcano Explorer Tour (Off-Road)
8 Days Motorcycle Adventure
An incredibly authentic experience, traversing the imposing mountains and volcanoes of Colombia’s Central Andes. This 8-day, 7-night journey for experienced drivers takes you on mostly off-road paths adorned by the fascinating Andean volcanic landscapes with hundreds of fun curves winding around the majestic mountains and villages full of history and culture. Every day will be filled with adventure and discovery.
Tour Duration
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS
Distance
1,450 km / 900 mi
EXPERIENCE LEVEL
ADVANCED
TERRAIN TYPE
OFF-ROAD
- Highest Elevation:3800 meters | 12467 feet (Nevado del Ruiz)
- Lowest Elevation: 285 meters | 935 feet (Armero)
- Support Truck: WITH 6+ RIDERS (UNLESS REQUESTED)
- Distance: 1,450 km / 900 mi
- Temperature High: 93°F / 34°C (Armero)
- Temperature low: -3°C | 27°F (Nevado del Ruiz)
MOTORCYCLE TOUR DESCRIPTION
Embark on a thrilling 8-day motorcycle journey through Colombia’s heartland, experiencing a blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming culture. Starting in Medellín, the adventure takes you through a variety of terrains, from scenic mountain roads and off-road trails to volcanic landscapes and lush coffee plantations. You’ll ride through charming towns like Salamina, Murillo, and Manizales, each with its own unique charm and history. Along the way, you’ll pass through Los Nevados National Natural Park, offering breathtaking views of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano, and stop in the Cocora Valley, home to the world-famous wax palms. Unlike the typical tourist route, this adventure takes you off-road through the true forest landscape, bringing you closer to Colombia’s nature than ever before.
This tour also offers a chance to explore two of Colombia’s active stratovolcanoes, Nevado del Ruiz and Nevado del Tolima, climbing the Western Mountain Range to an eco-hotel located in the high Andes. The journey will take you through The Alto de La Línea, a famous mountain pass that rises to 3,265 meters above sea level, located in the Cordillera Central. This pass is a key feature in the country’s cycling races, including the RCN Classic, which has been held annually since 1961. The route will cross into the Valle del Cauca region and continue through the vibrant town of Salento, where the towering wax palms await—but this time, we’ll explore the region on off-road routes to witness the forests and landscapes in their most raw, unfiltered form.
Throughout this adventure, you will traverse historical roads, uncover hidden gems, and experience Colombia’s diverse environments, from volcanic landscapes to lush valleys. After a day of riding, relax in boutique hotels, hot springs resorts, and nature lodges, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re climbing into the Andes, crossing mountain passes with incredible gradients, or enjoying the cultural warmth of towns like Cajamarca, Pueblo Rico, and Jardín, this tour will provide an unparalleled immersion into the real heart of Colombia.
This is more than just a motorcycle tour—it’s a deep dive into the heart of Colombia, where adventure, nature, and culture come together in a truly unforgettable experience.
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KEY SCENIC ATTRACTIONS
- Aguadas: Learn about the artisanal manufacture of hats, the traditional dessert called Pionono and a vibrant activity in the town.
- Salamina: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage city with its well-preserved colonial architecture adorned by colorful balconies.
- Nevado del Ruiz: Tour the impressive landscapes of native vegetation near this iconic volcano.
- Manizales: Experience the “City of Open Doors” with its rich cultural heritage and welcoming atmosphere.
- Santa Rosa de Cabal: Relax in the therapeutic hot springs surrounded by lush green landscapes.
- Salento and Cocora Valley: Explore the traditional Paisa architecture that Salento offers and the stunning views offered by the wax palm trees in the Cocora Valley
- Pueblo Rico: Enjoy biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities at an Eco Lodge located in a unique and underexplored nature reserve.
- Jardin: Stroll through the most beautiful town in Antioquia, known for its colorful colonial architecture and quality hospitality.
Salamina
Murillo
Manizales - Nevado del Ruiz
Santa Rosa de Cabal
Cajamarca (Toche)
Pueblo Rico
Jardin
IMPORTANT TIPS
Weather:
- Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including sudden changes in temperature and occasional rain. Waterproof clothing and additional layers are recommended to keep you comfortable in any weather.
Riding Equipment:
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for motorcycle riding, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate protective gear such as a helmet, gloves, and a sturdy jacket. This will keep you safe and protected during the trip.
Swimsuit:
- Don't forget to bring a swimsuit to enjoy aquatic activities, such as swimming in the natural pools of Las Gachas or relaxing in hot springs.
Motorcycle:
- Ensure your motorcycle is in good condition and fully fueled for the trip. Perform a pre-trip check of brakes, lights, and tires to avoid any issues on the road.
Hydration and Snacks:
- Stay well-hydrated and pack snacks for quick energy boosts during the ride. Water bottles, energy bars, and fruits are ideal options to keep you active and healthy.
Navigation:
- Carry a map or a GPS device for navigation. Make sure you are familiar with the route and planned stops. This will help you stay on track and reach your destination without any issues.
Cultural Respect:
- Respect local customs and traditions at each stop. Show consideration towards the local people, participate in their cultural activities, and try to learn about their way of life. This will enrich your experience and allow you to connect more deeply with Colombian culture.
Physical Preparation:
- Some parts of the journey can be demanding, so make sure you are in good physical shape. Perform exercises and stretches beforehand to stay in optimal condition during the trip.
Safety:
- Always follow traffic rules and safety guidelines. Maintain a moderate speed, especially on winding and mountainous roads. Use hand signals to communicate with other riders and keep a safe distance.
Emergency Kit:
- Carry a small emergency kit with basic tools for quick repairs, a first aid kit, and a flashlight. Being prepared for any eventuality will give you greater peace of mind during the journey.
Documentation:
- Always carry your identification, driver's license, travel insurance, and any other important documents. Make sure to have both digital and physical copies in case of loss.
Communication:
- Keep your mobile phone charged and carry a portable charger. It is important to stay connected in case of emergencies and to coordinate with the group during the journey.
- Visit places with tradition and culture such as the Museo Del Sombrero in Aguadas.
- Tours of the beautiful colonial architecture in the different typical towns that you will visit
- Hikes in the majestic Cocora Valley, home of the imposing Wax Palms.
- Immerse yourself in the therapeutic and restorative hot springs near Nevado del Ruiz and in Santa Rosa de Cabal.
- Exploration in the Tatamá Natural Reserve, a very special reserve due to the large number of bird species that live there.
- Tours or walks along the beautiful trails, the renowned Garrucha or sighting of the Cock of the Rock, the charming town of Jardin
cULTURE EXPECTATION
Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, evolving from a turbulent past to a vibrant and welcoming destination. The regions you will explore are rich in history and culture, and reflect the resilience and warmth of its people. You will find a deep respect for traditions, especially in rural areas where ancient customs are still alive.
Location Map
Map view of destination locations.
This tour covers diverse terrain, easy-driving unpaved mountain roads, roads adorned by volcanic landscapes, paved roads with hundreds of curves and serene coffee plantations and winding rural roads. You’ll have a combination of off-road sections and gentler panoramic tours through Colombia’s stunning landscapes.
General Elevation Map:
ITINERARY
Day 1 Itinerary: Medellín to Salamina
Duration: 8 Days, 7 Nights
Region: Coffee Cultural Landscape and Central Andes
Places: Salamina - Murillo - Manizales - Santa Rosa de Cabal - Cajamarca - Cartago
Brief Description: Embark on a thrilling eight-day off-road motorcycle adventure through
Colombia's volcanic landscapes, picturesque towns, and serene hot springs. Starting from Medellín, ride through the historic and scenic regions of Aguadas, Salamina, and the volcanic Nevado del Ruiz. Explore the vibrant culture of Manizales, the beauty of Cocora Valley, and relax in the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal. End your adventure with the charming colonial towns of Jardín and Ciudad Bolívar. This tour promises an unforgettable journey through the majestic Andes.
Elevation Map:
Itinerary
Medellín: We gather early to review the equipment, get to know your motorcycle, and receive a brief orientation on the route, riding modes, and traffic rules. We should be ready to start our adventure at 8:00 am.
Ride: Today's route will cover approximately 200 km with varied weather, off-road sections, and altitude changes. This route through the Antioquian mountains reveals unique landscapes at every turn. It is advisable to wear comfortable clothing as it will be a chilly morning. In Aguadas, known as "The City of Mists" and famous for its handmade hats and typical dessert "Pionono," we will stop to enjoy the charm of the city, interact with the locals, and delight in a delicious bandeja paisa or a pionono. We then continue to Salamina, descending through roads filled with unique and lush landscapes.
Salamina: Upon arrival, we check into a charming boutique hotel. This town, part of the UNESCO Coffee Cultural Landscape, will surprise us with its well-preserved colonial architecture. After settling in, you can explore the town, enjoy a walk through its square and streets, and learn more about its culture. For dinner, we will enjoy a traditional meal near the main square, tasting the town's authentic desserts.
Day 2 Itinerary: Salamina to Murillo
Salamina: Early in the morning, we will enjoy a good traditional Colombian breakfast and a revitalizing coffee. After a brief check of our motorcycles, we will meet at 7:00 am to start our journey. Salamina has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ride: Today, we will have a journey of approximately 250 km with altitude variations between 300 m and 3,000 m, and easy-to-navigate off-road sections. We will pass through Manzanares, a city known for its friendly locals. We will take a break to explore the town, enjoy a specialty coffee, and the bustling activity. We then continue to Armero, a town with a poignant history due to the 1985 volcanic eruption. If time permits, we will visit the memorial sites and places of historical importance in the area. We will stop at a typical restaurant to enjoy a delicious grilled meat or a hearty bandeja paisa for lunch. The route will be long with possible sudden weather changes, so it is advisable to wear comfortable and fresh clothing, and have waterproof clothing handy.
Murillo: A small town in the high mountains of the Andes. After settling into a charming mountain hotel, you can explore the town and enjoy the views of Nevado del Ruiz. We will enjoy a traditional dinner with delicious mutton.
Day 3 Itinerary: Murillo to Manizales via Nevado del Ruiz
Elevation Map:
Murillo: After a good traditional breakfast accompanied by a cup of "aguapanela" with cheese, you can take one last walk around the town and appreciate the charming landscape. We will depart for Manizales, traveling through scenic routes and admiring the views of Nevado del Ruiz and its diverse fauna. We will meet at 10:00 am to start our journey.
Ride: Today's route will be through páramos, a charming 100 km route at an altitude between 2,500 m and 3,400 m, mostly paved, with unique landscapes, views, and fauna. We will drive through Los Nevados National Natural Park and see plants over 100 years old. The Murillo-Manizales road is considered the highest and most beautiful paved road in Colombia. It will be a cold day, so we should wear comfortable clothing and have waterproof clothing handy for possible rain.
Manizales: Upon arrival, we will check into a charming hotel with hot springs. You can then explore the "City of Open Doors," discovering its cultural aspects and monuments. In the evening, we will enjoy a traditional dinner, and you can relax in the hot springs near Nevado del Ruiz.
Day 4 Itinerary: Manizales to Santa Rosa de Cabal
Elevation Map:
Manizales: In the morning, we will have time to enjoy the place and its therapeutic waters a bit more. After a good breakfast and a cup of coffee, we will meet at 10:30 am to depart for Santa Rosa de Cabal.
Ride: Today's journey will be easy and relaxed on a paved road that offers fun curves and coffee landscapes. We will cover about 70 km towards Santa Rosa de Cabal. The weather is varied but mostly cold, so it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing.
Santa Rosa de Cabal: A small town in the coffee axis famous for its hot springs. Upon arrival, we will have lunch with delicious santarrosano sausages. We will check into a hotel with access to volcanic hot springs, where you can relax in the therapeutic hot springs, surrounded by lush green landscapes. We will enjoy a traditional dinner at the hotel and have a restful night's sleep to continue with the next day's adventure.
Day 5 Itinerary: Santa Rosa de Cabal to Cajamarca
Elevation Map:
Santa Rosa de Cabal: After a good breakfast with a santarrosano sausage and a revitalizing coffee, we will give a brief inspection of our motorcycles and meet at 8:00 am to start the day's route.
Ride: Today's route will be about 100 km full of adventure with off-road sections, colorful towns, panoramic landscapes, and the renowned wax palms. We will make stops in Salento, known for its charming and colorful Paisa architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. We will tour the town and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere from our arrival. We will then explore the Cocora Valley, home of the towering wax palms, and enjoy hikes along the valley's scenic trails. We will also take advantage of the viewpoints in the area to take fun photographs and enjoy their panoramic views. For this route, it is advisable to wear comfortable and fresh clothing.
Cajamarca: Finally, we will travel to Cajamarca along mountainous roads adorned by its rich agricultural production. Upon arrival, we will get to know the town, its culture, and the friendliness of its people. We will stay in a charming mountain hotel where we will enjoy a traditional dinner and a restful rest in the hot springs of Cerro Machín, a small active volcano.
Day 6 Itinerary: Cajamarca to Pueblo Rico
Elevation Map:
Cajamarca: Early in the morning, we will enjoy a delicious typical breakfast with a good coffee, then prepare and be ready at 8:00 am for today's journey.
Ride: Today's route will be about 200 km with off-road sections and varied climates. It will be a route filled with coffee landscapes adorned with colorful houses on the mountain tops. We will pass through charming typical coffee towns like Quimbaya and Montenegro, where it will be impossible not to stop and admire their beautiful landscapes, streets adorned with colonial architecture, crafts, and vibrant coffee culture. Perhaps we will enjoy a delicious coffee. We will also have a typical lunch in one of the local restaurants. It is advisable to wear fresh and comfortable clothing, and have waterproof clothing handy for possible sudden rain.
Pueblo Rico: Travel to Pueblo Rico, a town renowned for its great biodiversity and unique bird-watching opportunities in its important nature reserve. After arriving at the town, we will head into the mountains to stay in a cozy local lodge run by a charming family who will welcome us with open arms. This lodge is located in one of the most important nature reserves in Colombia and the world due to the large number of birds recorded in this area. We will enjoy a traditional dinner at the lodge and relax.
Day 7 Itinerary: Pueblo Rico to Jardín
Elevation Map:
Pueblo Rico: We will have an early breakfast with a good typical breakfast at the lodge, then check our motorcycles and depart. We will meet at 8:00 am to start the journey.
Ride: This promising route will be about 200 km on mixed roads with temperate weather, although with possible rain. We will make a stop in Riosucio, a colorful town where we will get to know its two main parks that tell its unusual history and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere while enjoying a hearty typical lunch.
Jardín: Known as "the most beautiful town in Antioquia." We will arrive and check into a warm boutique hotel. Then you can explore the colorful colonial architecture and the lively and welcoming main square. We will enjoy a panoramic view of the town by taking the artisanal cable car "La Garrucha" and get to know the Cock of the Rock, beautiful birds that make their home on the banks of one of the rivers that run through this charming town. We will enjoy a delicious dinner near the main park.
Day 8 Itinerary: Jardín to Medellín
Elevation Map:
Jardín: Our last day starts with an encouraging typical breakfast. We will then take a walk through this wonderful town and enjoy a delicious dessert. Jardín is known for its delicious sweets and desserts. We will meet at 10:00 am for our final journey.
Ride: We continue our journey back to Medellín. Our final stretch will be a 170 km route of paved roads filled with abundant vegetation and charming landscapes that will leave us with great memories of this great adventure through the central Andes.
Volcano Explorer Tour
STARTING PRICE: $3,250 USD
| All-Inclusive Guided Tours | Rental | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | All-Inclusive Tours | Self-Guided | |
| Base Tour Package | $3,250 USD | $670 USD | |
| Group Discount | (10% Discount) | (5% Discount) | BOOK ONLINE |
All-Inclusive Tours Include: Fully Loaded Adventure Motorcycle, Helmet, Jacket, Gloves, Gear Bundle, Gas, Private Guide, Hotel (if required), Breakfast (if required), Gear Storage, Tool Kit, Medical Insurance
Self-Guided Tours Include: Fully Loaded Adventure Motorcycle, Helmet, Jacket, Gloves, Rain Jacket, Optional Tool-Kit & Medical Insurance.
Pricing: Listed in US Dollars due to the instability of the Colombian Peso.
Not Included: Lunch, Dinner, Alcoholic Beverages & Passenger Expenses
- Adventure motorcycle: Motorcycles that are easy to ride, with premium accessories and extras (360° protection, auxiliary adventure lights, adventure windshield, 45 liter top box, premium cell phone holder, wireless / USB charger (fast charging), maintenance performed by professionals.)
- Protective Equipment: including helmet and gloves & jacket
- Unlimited Mileage / km
- Fuel
- Insurance: Basic emergency medical insurance (SOAT)
- Tool Kit: Tire repair kit including electric air pump and inner tubes.
- Support: 24-hour customer service for any need or emergency during the trip.
- Gear: Extra Riding Jacket & Helmet
- Rain Protection: Disposable suits
- Safety: Reflective safety vests
- Tools: Full Adventure tool Kit
- Storage: Dry-Bags & More
- Luggage: Rok Straps and Bands
- Service: Optional full vehicle service and maintenance calibration.
- Tires: Optional install of new tires of your choice.
- Brakes: Optional install
- Filters: Optional Install of new air filter
- Delivery: Pick-up & Delivery Option
- Private Guide: Looking to hire a private or local guide, ask us and we can offer you a private guide for your self guided trip.
Colombia Adventure RIding Overview
(All-Inclusive Tours)
Every motorcycle adventure tour we offer starts and concludes in the lively and secure city of Medellin, Colombia, where you'll find a variety of hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Preparation Before Departure
Before you set off on your adventure, we’ll provide you with a briefing on the road regulations in Colombia, local traditions, and essential etiquette. You'll also receive training on how to operate a pre-programmed GPS device, along with a packet that includes hotel vouchers, daily maps, points of interest, local highlights, and hidden gems to customize your trip.
On Departure Day
When your departure day arrives, you will be supplied with your adventure motorcycle, fully equipped with a waterproof luggage system, a first aid kit, spare inner tubes (or a tire repair kit), tools, and a prepaid mobile phone for assistance. We will conduct a comprehensive vehicle inspection to ensure everything is in working order, and you'll be informed about emergency procedures.
Experience the Adventure
Our tours are crafted to navigate well-maintained roads with light traffic and include scheduled stops along the way. You’re encouraged to discover at your own pace, taking the chance to capture photos and engage with the welcoming locals in safe, off-the-beaten-path locations.
Support and Monitoring
Our team will monitor your journey through GPS and is available by phone for assistance with route adjustments, roadside emergencies, or any other support you may need.
Weather Conditions
Be prepared for a range of weather conditions, with temperatures varying from chilly in the higher altitudes to warm or hot in the lower areas. Rain can occur, particularly during certain months and in specific regions.
Lodging:
Our all-inclusive tours feature nightly accommodations with private or shared rooms. While most of our lodging options are private, there may be instances—particularly in remote areas or with larger groups—where shared rooms are necessary. However, shared room arrangements are typically optional, and if you are traveling with a passenger, we ensure comfortable accommodations suited to your preference.
Meals:
Each tour includes a hearty breakfast every morning, with select snacks and beverages offered in certain locations. We intentionally do not include lunch or dinner in the tour package to allow for personal preferences in food quality and choice. At every stop, we’ll recommend local dining options based on your tastes, guiding you toward both familiar favorites and authentic Colombian dishes that enrich your travel experience. Colombia offers a variety of regional specialties, and part of the journey is indulging in these culinary delights as you explore different parts of the country.
Preparation and Packing
We will supply you with comprehensive packing lists and preparation instructions. It’s advisable to have a basic understanding of motorcycle maintenance and repairs before your tour begins.
BOOKING AND CANCELLATION POLICY
Multi-Day Motorcycle Tours & Rentals
- Full Refund: We do not allow full refunds on our tour purchases.
- Tour Deposit (Cancellations): Due to the fact we pre-book hotel bookings we will not refunded your motorcycle deposit for tour cancellations.
- Rental Deposit (Cancellations): Due to our pre-booked motorcycles & tour schedules, our motorcycle deposits are only refundable after your rental period is completed without damages, purposes and a full tank of gas.
- Trip Cancellation Insurance: 5% of the tour cost, payable at booking.
- Insurance Coverage: Provides credit towards a future tour with us.
Reason for policy: Tours and accommodations are pre-booked sometimes months in advance, necessitating confirmed motorcycle availability for all our clients.
Covered Cancellation Scenarios
Credit given if cancellation is due to:
- Cancellation with our Insurance Coverage policy
- Extreme sickness, accidental injury, or death (documentation required).
- Involvement in a traffic accident on the way to the tour or before
(police report needed). - Adverse situations affecting the ability to join the tour
(war, terrorism, natural disasters, strikes).
Additional Notes
Colombia Motorcycle Rental & Tour reserves the right to cancel your tour based on the legitimacy or illegitimacy of each rider’s experience level based on intake form. .
Each rider must come equipped with:
- Valid motorcycle driver’s license.
- Information on their experience levels.
- Honest details about themselves, including where they are from and any other required information required during our booking process.
Contact Information
For inquiries or additional information:
Email: tom@colombiamotorcycletour.com
WhatsApp: +57 300 765 5093
USA Phone: +1 415-663-7355
Company Information:
Registered Colombian Travel Agency
SG Enterprises CO. SAS
NIT: 901567840.
RNT: Registro No. 167587