8 Days of Pure Class IV: Medellín Whitewater

Colombia has an equatorial tropical climate, making it possible to travel throughout the year. Temperatures remain relatively stable, although rainfall varies depending on the region and time of year. The main rainy seasons are from March to May and from October to November.

Rainfall generally does not cause significant changes in temperature. However, it can raise river levels, creating excellent conditions for whitewater rafting and kayaking, while activities such as paragliding may be more dependent on weather conditions. Our rafting trips operate year-round.

If you prefer to travel during a generally drier period, consider visiting between December and March or from June to September. Climate varies considerably depending on altitude and location: Medellín enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year, while the Andean regions around Bogotá are cooler, particularly at night. The Amazon region is warmer, more humid and receives more rainfall.

Good to know:

• December to March: generally drier months.
• March to May and October to November: wetter periods.
• Festivals and cultural events take place throughout the year, particularly in Medellín.
• July is an ideal time to see migrating whales along Colombia’s Pacific coast.
• Peak travel periods generally include December to February and June to August, so booking in advance is recommended.
• The low season can offer more attractive prices for flights and accommodation.

ATMs are widely available throughout Colombia and generally offer more competitive exchange rates than banks or currency exchange offices. However, not all ATMs accept every type of bank card. For example, some Bancolombia ATMs may not accept certain foreign cards.

Before travelling, we recommend contacting your bank to find out which Colombian ATMs accept your card and to check whether any withdrawal or transaction fees may apply.

You should also notify your bank of your travel plans. This can help prevent transactions from being declined or triggering fraud alerts while you are abroad.

If you would like to have some Colombian pesos with you upon arrival, you can usually order foreign currency from your bank before departure or exchange money at certain airport currency exchange offices.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes international medical coverage. This can provide protection in the event of flight or trip cancellations, as well as medical issues that may arise during your stay.

Before travelling, check with your existing health insurance provider to understand how you are covered abroad and which regions of Colombia are included in your policy. Expedition Colombia provides insurance coverage for its staff and participants through Colasistencia.

In the event of an accident or medical emergency, you must carry your original passport with you. Medical facilities may require the original document before providing treatment.

Regarding vaccinations, make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date before travelling abroad. Recommendations may vary depending on your itinerary, the regions you plan to visit and your individual circumstances. Certain areas of Colombia also require additional precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, as well as illnesses such as typhoid fever.

http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/colombia

We recommend checking the official travel health guidance from your home country and consulting a healthcare professional before departure to determine which vaccinations and preventive measures are appropriate for your trip.

Full payment (100%) is required to confirm all bookings.

Changes and cancellations depend on the type of experience and how far in advance the request is made:

Day trips (one day or less): More than 5 days before, changes incur a 25% retention and cancellations a 50% retention. Between 5 days and 24 hours, changes incur a 50% retention and cancellations are non-refundable. Less than 24 hours before, changes and refunds are not permitted.

Multi-day experiences (up to 3 days, non-customized): More than 10 days before, changes and cancellations incur a 50% retention. Between 5 and 10 days, changes incur a 50% retention and cancellations are non-refundable. Less than 5 days before, changes and refunds are not permitted.

Customized experiences or trips longer than 3 days: More than 15 days before, changes incur a 50% retention and cancellations an 85% retention. Less than 15 days before, changes and refunds are not permitted.

Special requests, meals and extras must be requested at least 3, 5 or 15 days in advance, depending on the type of experience. All changes are subject to prior approval and operational availability.

For full details, see our Reservation Policy.

Water temperature varies depending on the river, altitude, season and weather conditions. In the rivers where we operate rafting trips in Antioquia, the water is generally cool to mild.

• Calderas River: approximately 15–20°C. Located in a mountainous area, the river generally has cool water.
• Samaná River: approximately 18–24°C. Its temperature varies with altitude, with cooler water in higher sections and warmer water at lower elevations.
• Santo Domingo River: approximately 15–20°C. Like the Calderas River, it flows through a mountainous region and generally has cool water.

These temperatures are approximate and may vary depending on the season, weather and local conditions on the day of your activity.

Colombia is a popular destination for international travelers, but as in any country, it is important to take sensible precautions, particularly to reduce the risk of theft and petty crime. By staying aware of your surroundings and following a few simple guidelines, you can enjoy your trip with greater peace of mind.

Here are our main recommendations:

• Make copies of your passport, visa and itinerary. Keep a copy separately from your original documents and leave another copy with a trusted friend or relative.
• Never leave your luggage unattended.
• Do not accept packages, transportation or other services offered by strangers.
• Keep valuables and important documents in your accommodation’s safe whenever possible.
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or accessories and keep your phone, camera and other valuables discreetly secured.
• If you are unsure whether an area is safe, ask your hotel staff or local authorities for advice.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and only take what you need with you.
• Plan your route in advance and stick to recommended areas and routes.
• At night, avoid dark, isolated or poorly populated areas.
• Ask your hotel or a local tourist information office to recommend a reliable taxi service.
• Whenever possible, stay at accommodation recommended by Expedition Colombia.

If you have any questions or concerns about safety during your trip, feel free to contact Expedition Colombia. Our team will be happy to provide advice and help you prepare for your journey.

Yes. Expedition Colombia is a company based in Antioquia, specializing in adventure experiences throughout Colombia.

Our mission goes beyond creating exciting and adrenaline-filled trips. We aim to help travelers discover Colombia’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage while developing a deeper understanding of and respect for the places they visit.

Through our experiences in Colombia’s mountains, rivers and culturally rich regions, we promote responsible travel and help highlight the value of the country’s natural environments and local communities.

Our goal is to create meaningful experiences that connect travelers with nature, showcase Colombia’s cultural diversity and encourage greater awareness of the importance of protecting these resources for future generations.

Expedition Colombia offers three payment options for your booking:

• Online payment: a secure payment link is provided through the Pago Ágil platform. You can pay by Visa, Mastercard or American Express. The amount and booking reference will be provided before you complete the transaction.
• Cash payment: payment can be made directly in cash.
• Bank transfer: you can make a transfer to Expedition – Colombia S.A.S.’s Bancolombia savings account (No. 37535170615, SWIFT: COLOCOBM).

By completing your payment, you confirm that you have read, understood and accepted the terms and conditions applicable to your booking and participation in your trip with Expedition Colombia.