How Safe Is Colombia For Traveling? Best Recommendations Guide

Medellín cityscape

Colombia, once plagued by drug cartels and internal conflicts, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. This South American nation has emerged as a popular tourist destination, boasting breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

However, safety concerns still linger in the minds of many potential tourists and foreigners. In this article, we’ll delve into the safety aspects of visiting Colombia, including specific destinations like Cartagena and Medellin.

So how safe is Colombia really? What we can tell in advance is that Colombia is safe to travel and that the biggest risk is that you might want to stay longer in this wonderful country!

Ready to turn your Colombian dream vacation into reality? Contact us and we will start planning your dream trip!

How Safe is Colombia: Colombia’s Safety Transformation

comuna 13 medellin colombia

Colombia has made significant strides in improving its security situation over the past few decades. The government has implemented robust measures to combat crime and insurgency, resulting in a notable decrease in violence and instability. According to statistics, homicide rates in Colombia have dropped significantly in recent years, reaching levels comparable to other countries in the region.

The Colombian government has also prioritized tourism as a key economic driver, investing in infrastructure, promoting sustainable travel, and enhancing security measures in tourist areas. Major cities and popular tourist destinations have seen increased police presence and improved surveillance systems to ensure the safety of visitors.

Embark on Your Colombian Journey of Discovery! Contact us and we’ll tailor your perfect Colombian escape.

Common Misconceptions About Colombia’s Safety

colombia beach in santa marta tayrona

Common misconceptions about safety in Colombia persist despite significant improvements in recent years. Although the news many times may show Colombia as an unsafe or dangerous country for tourists, the reality is completely different. Of course, there are still cases of insecurity in some of the main cities of the country, especially in the largest and most populated ones, but it is the same thing that can happen in big cities around the world like New York, Chicago, Paris or London, where the safety recommendations for tourists are the same.

  1. The drug cartels still run the country

Many people still associate Colombia with Pablo Escobar and the notorious drug cartels. While Colombia has faced challenges with drug-related violence in the past, substantial efforts by the government have significantly weakened the influence of these criminal organizations. Today, Colombia is much more stable and safer for residents and tourists alike. Our humble recommendation: Stop watching so many Netflix series about drug cartels and Pablo Escobar!

  1. It is not safe to travel outside of Colombia’s major cities

The notion that it is unsafe to travel outside of major cities overlooks the progress made in enhancing security throughout the country. While rural areas may have previously faced security issues, many of these regions have seen significant improvements. Tourists now have access to a wealth of destinations beyond urban centers, including Colombia’s breathtaking natural landscapes and culturally rich towns.

  1. All of Colombia is dangerous

The blanket assertion that all of Colombia is dangerous is misleading. While certain areas may still experience security challenges, painting the entire country with this broad stroke overlooks the diverse reality of Colombia. Major cities like Medellín, Cartagena, and Bogotá, are generally safe for visitors who exercise caution and adhere to common-sense safety measures.

Step Into the Magic of Colombia! Reach out today and let’s plan your unforgettable journey to Colombia.

Common Colombia Safety Concerns And Risks

Cartagena Cityscape - historical centre and Bocagrande

Colombia, like any country, has its safety concerns, but with proper precautions, most travelers visit without any incident at all. Here are the common safety concerns and the risk levels in Colombia:

  • Transport and Taxis Risk

While transportation networks are generally reliable, there are risks associated with accidents, particularly in remote areas or poorly maintained vehicles. Additionally, there have been reports of taxi scams, so it’s advisable to use reputable taxi services. Our recommendation is to take transportation apps like Uber or DiDi, which work very well in cities like Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota. But if you want something more private and comfortable from Two Travel we can organize all your transportation.

  • Pickpockets Risk

In crowded areas such as markets, public transportation, and tourist sites, pickpocketing can occur. Travelers should remain vigilant and keep their belongings secure. Travelers should be aware of their pockets, backpacks, and purses as in any city in the world where most tourist places are usually full of people.

  • Natural Disasters Risk

No country in the world is exempt from natural disasters, so it is always good to follow the recommendations of local guides, experts, and authorities on the subject.

  • Mugging Risk

Street crime, including muggings and robberies, can happen in some of the larger cities, especially at night and in areas that are not very busy or crowded. Travelers should avoid displaying valuables and remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

  • Terrorism Risk

While Colombia has a history of political violence and terrorism, particularly in rural areas, the risk to tourists is really low, especially in major cities and tourist areas. So this is actually something you don’t have to worry about, as Colombia is a politically, economically, and socially very stable country.

  • Scams Risk

Tourists may encounter various scams, including fake tour operators, overcharging, and credit card fraud. It’s essential to research and use reputable services, negotiate prices in advance, and be cautious with personal and financial information.

  • Women Travelers Risk

Female travelers should exercise the same precautions as male travelers, such as avoiding walking alone at night and being cautious in unfamiliar areas.

Eager to explore the safe streets of Colombia? Contact us today and kickstart the unforgettable adventure with our expert assistance!

How Safe is Colombia: Cartagena

Cartagena Colombia

Cartagena, with its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and picturesque beaches, is one of Colombia’s most popular tourist destinations. While it has its share of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams targeting tourists, violent crime rates in Cartagena are relatively low compared to other cities in Colombia.

Travelers can enhance their safety in Cartagena by taking common-sense precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, staying alert in crowded places, and securing their belongings. Additionally, sticking to well-lit and populated areas, using reputable transportation services, and being cautious when exploring unfamiliar neighborhoods can contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience in Cartagena.

Contact us today to let your dream Cartagena journey start with our tailored trip planning!

How Safe is Colombia: Medellín

Blog Medellin

Once synonymous with drug violence, Medellin has undergone a remarkable transformation to become one of Colombia’s most dynamic and innovative cities. Today, Medellin is celebrated for its cultural offerings, innovative urban projects, and warm hospitality. Medellin’s transformation is not only evident in its physical landscape but also in its commitment to safety and security.

While Medellin has made significant strides in improving its security situation, certain neighborhoods still experience higher crime rates than others. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when visiting areas known for petty crime and to avoid flashing valuables or venturing into unfamiliar areas alone, especially at night.

Contact us today to let your dream Medellin vacation start with our custom trip planning!

Colombia Travel Advisory And Safety Tips

best neighborhoods in medellin colombia

Like any travel destination, it is vital to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure your Colombia safety. Here are some Colombia travel advisories and safety tips for visiting Colombia and having a great experience during your whole trip.

  • Don’t flash your belongings while you’re out and about

Avoid attracting unnecessary attention by keeping your valuables, such as cameras, phones, jewelry, or large sums of money, out of sight. If you need to use your phone, do it inside and not out on the street, and be mindful of your surroundings.

  • Don’t travel alone at night

If you do go out at night, especially in less populated or unfamiliar areas, be sure to go with a group of fellow travelers or take a trusted transportation mode such as an Uber. Do not walk alone late at night.

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases

Knowing basic Spanish can help you communicate with locals and navigate various safety situations more effectively.

  • Download and use an offline map of the city

Having an offline map on your smartphone can be invaluable in case you get lost or need directions, especially if you find yourself in areas with limited internet connectivity

  • Stay somewhere with 24-hour security

Choose accommodations and neighborhoods that prioritize safety, such as our private villas in which we can provide security 24 hours a day.

  • Don’t do drugs

Engaging in drug-related activities is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or fines. Avoid any involvement with drugs to stay out of trouble and avoid any drug-related comment as colombians don’t like it.

  • Keep Your Valuables Separate

Distribute your money, credit cards, and important documents across different pockets, bags, or hidden compartments. This way, if one is lost or stolen, you won’t lose everything.

  • Take reliable transportation

Opt for reputable and licensed transportation services or rideshare apps rather than accepting rides from strangers. Our concierge team and logistics can arrange transportation for you and your group during your whole stay.

  • Stay updated on current events

Keep informed about the latest news and developments in the areas you plan to visit. This includes monitoring local news, weather forecasts, and any travel advisories issued by your government.

  • Trust Your Instincts

If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your intuition and remove yourself from it. Avoid confrontations and seek help from authorities or trustworthy locals if needed.

  • Download tracking apps to your phone and laptop

Installing tracking apps like Prey to locate your stolen devices and remotely wipe sensitive data if necessary. Make sure to set them up before your trip and familiarize yourself with their functionalities

  • If the worst happens, cooperate and just give the attacker your stuff

In the unfortunate event of a robbery or mugging, prioritize your safety above all else. Remain calm, cooperate with the assailant’s demands, and avoid escalating the situation. Remember that you can replace your material possessions, but your well-being cannot.

  • Buy travel insurance

Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. This provides financial protection and peace of mind throughout your journey.

With our Concierge and Logistics teams behind you, your dream Colombia adventure is safe and secure. Contact us now and let us plan your whole experience!

Final Thoughts About Colombia’s Safety

In conclusion, Colombia has emerged as a shining example of safety and adventure in South America, with cities like Cartagena and Medellin leading the charge. As travelers increasingly seek authentic experiences in diverse landscapes, Colombia stands ready to welcome them with open arms. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure of a lifetime, and discover the beauty and safety of Colombia for yourself.

And remember that with our Concierge services you will have a team of people totally at your disposal to make your experience as safe as possible and you will not have any kind of inconvenience during your stay. From putting together your itinerary, organizing your daily transportation or recommending the best restaurants, to helping you with any special requirements such as using private security for you and your group. Whatever you need we have it all and can improve your experience in Colombia!

Medellin Bachelor Pool Party

Medellin Mansion

One of the great things about Medellín is the climate – it’s called the City of Eternal Spring – because the temperatures are mild all year round (72°F – 77°F). So a pool party is a favorite activity for bachelors celebrating their last days of singledom in Medellín and we can help make that happen!

With Two Travel, you can book a house for you and all your friends that’s party friendly. It’s really important to have the permission of the house owner if you want to go all out, and we can do all of that for you. Take a look at just some of the amazing places you could be staying – yes, many have pools, some even have private nightclubs!

All you really have to do for your pool party is get up, get dressed and party. We do the rest!

  • We’ll decorate the pool according to your chosen theme.
  • We’ll make sure all the drinks and food you want are ready when you need them. We can bring in bartenders and chefs. Many of the houses have great BBQ spaces.
  • You might have a great party playlist, but we can make sure the speakers are what you need, and even bring in a DJ.
  • Never a dull moment. We’ll have beer pong, pool volleyball, dance activities and a special bachelor show, so your pool party is unforgettable!

We can also organize security, spa treatments and massages, among other things. Just get in touch and let us do the hard work for you.

Let our team do the Medellín bachelor party planning for you. You won’t regret it. Tell us when, for how many people and your budget and we will do the rest, so you can party like a pro!

Medellin Bachelor Party Special

Medellin Bachelor Party clubbing

Medellin is fast becoming a favorite for bachelor parties and we totally understand why.  So if you’re planning a bachelor party and wondering how to do it, read on. We are experts in party planning and this Medellín Bachelor Party Special is one to book!

Why celebrate your Bachelor Party in Medellín?

  1. The Nightlife: Medellin is known for its vibrant nightlife. The city is home to some of the best clubs in South America, and many of them stay open until the early hours of the morning.
  2. Beautiful women: Medellin is also known for its beautiful women, who are friendly, approachable, and open to meeting new people. This can make it an attractive destination for groups of single men looking to have a good time.
  3. Affordable prices: Compared to other popular bachelor party destinations like Las Vegas or Miami, Medellin is relatively affordable. Accommodation, food, and entertainment are all reasonably priced, which can make it an attractive option for groups on a budget.
  4. Adventure activities: Medellin is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains, waterfalls, and forests. There are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy, such as hiking, paragliding, and rafting, which can add an extra element of excitement to a bachelor party.

We can organize a full weekend (or longer) for you and your group.  And we love hosting our Bachelor Party Night Special – truly a night to remember. And of course, what happens in Medellin stays in Medellin 😉 

You want a night to remember? Book this Medellín Bachelor Party Special for at least one of the evenings that you’re in town.  We will take care of everything

Here’s what your evening could look like:

  • Warm up at the house : We make sure your chosen drinks are delivered in time for your pre-game, or if you want to go all out, we’ll lay on a bartender and chef to start off your evening with style.
  • Transport and security : No need to worry with directions in a second language, nor being at risk of light fingers (or worse!). Our local team is discreet but on hand, so you can party the night away without concern, wherever you choose for your special night.
  • Bar Hopping in Provenza : We know where to go for the best cocktails, best crowd and best views.  Hopping to a few bars before you go clubbing is a great way to get into Medellín’s party scene, and we can make sure there’s some brilliant bar food available at the best table in the house. Find out more 
  • VIP Club Night : As evening turns into night, when you’re ready, we’ll take you to your chosen club. We have relationships with all the best places, so you get the best tables, the best hosts, amazing cocktails and a front row experience not to be missed! Find out more
  • Back at the house : We’ll make sure you (and your guests) get back to the house safe, and that your fridge is stocked should you want to continue the party into the early hours. 
  • Next day rejuvenation treatments : Be it brunch, IV treatments, massages, or rejuvenating cocktails, count on us for all your next day needs. We’ll have you feeling tip top before your next activity, whatever it may be!

Let our team do the Medellín bachelor party planning for you. You won’t regret it. Just let us know when, for how many people and your budget and we will do the rest, so you can party like a pro!

VIP Club Night in Medellin

Medellín nightclub La Chula

If you’re in Medellin with a group of friends, you’re probably here to enjoy the nightlife. After a day exploring the city, what better way to party than dancing the night away in one of the best clubs in Medellin. We work with groups of 6 or more people, specializing in evenings for bachelor parties. Get ready for a VIP Club Night in Medellín to remember!

Our VIP Club night package is perfect for groups. No need to worry about which club to go to (we know all the best places!), how to get there, get in and get home – we’ve got this! We sort out transport, we get you to the front of the line fast and for groups, we can make sure you get one of the best tables with cold drinks on tap, so you can spend your time meeting the locals.

We highly recommend combining your VIP Club night with our Bar Hopping in Provenza evening. We can do a special package for you. Just get in touch!

If you’re leading a group, you cannot go wrong with these nightclubs. But this is not the limit to our VIP Club night. Just tell us what your group likes, and what occasion you’re celebrating. We’ll take you to the best clubs – VIP style!

VIP Club Night in Medellín recommendations:

Las Palmas

Las Palmas is a well-known upscale area located near to El Poblado. La Chula is the perfect place if you’re looking to dance the night away Mexico style! This is the place for tequila and mariachi bands and right next door is La Chula Urbana if you’re looking for a reggaeton night. With us, you can jump from one to the other! Or we can take you to Bora Bora – perfect for urban music with a touch of Mexico.

Vintrash

Vintrash, located in the heart of the trendy Parque Lleras area, is a vibrant and energetic club that is sure to please any bachelor party. With its colorful decor and eclectic mix of music, Vintrash is known for its lively atmosphere and fun-loving crowd. Whether you’re looking to hit the dance floor or relax in one of the club’s lounge areas, Vintrash is a great spot to celebrate your bachelor party.

Gusto

Gusto, located in the heart of Medellin’s bustling Laureles neighborhood, is a firm favorite for bachelors. With VIP areas, a beautiful local crowd and urban/crossover vibes, you cannot go wrong with a night at Gusto. We can organize a range of bottle service options and VIP packages.

Other clubs we recommend

We have great relationships with the best nightclubs in Medellín. Let us know what kind of a night you want and we’ll do the rest. Try La Molienda, for a truly Paisa start to your evening with horses! For those looking for techno and a more European crowd, try Salon Amador or Sonorama. For those in the know, Dubai is a great place to meet locals and very popular right now. And if you’re looking for reggaeton, Perro Negro is your place.

Get in touch to book your VIP Club Night in Medellín or check out our Bachelor Party Special. Here’s our Medellin nightlife guide for more recommendations.

Bar Hopping in Provenza

Teatro Victoria bar in Medellin

Looking for the ultimate bar hopping experience in Medellin? Look no further! Our team are locals and they know all the best places to party (especially for bachelors) and will make sure your night is one to remember. Bar hopping in Medellín´s Provenza district is the perfect warm up before you head to a club in Medellín. From trendy rooftop bars to hidden speakeasies, we´ll take you to all the best places to party like a local in Medellin.

If you’ve booked a concierge service with us, we won’t simply recommend the bars to go to, we’ll sort out pre-game snacks and shots before you leave your accommodation, sort out transport to Provenza, and get you to the best tables in every place.

Get in touch to book and we will do the rest. Don’t miss out on the best nightlife Medellín has to offer!

Here are some of the top bars in this bar hopping experience:

  • La Octava: This bar has a great selection of beer and cocktails and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great spot to kick off a night out in Provenza.
  • El Social: Known for its lively atmosphere, this classic bar offers a great mix of music and cocktails. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
  • Envy Rooftop: Another rooftop bar with a great view, Envy is a popular spot for partygoers. The bar has a lively atmosphere, and the cocktails are fantastic.
  • Mosquito: This rooftop is one of our favorites, bringing in a trendy and beautiful crowd every day of the week to warm up with DJs, cocktails and gorgeous company with a view!
  • Teatro Victoria: A magical place – this is another favorite of ours. You’ll find urban and crossover music, a beautiful fun crowd and a rooftop all in one amazing bar. We recommend this as your last stop for good reason. You won’t want to leave!

Whatever your group, get in touch and we’ll get you into the best places for the vibe you’re looking for. And don’t stop at bar hopping – if you want to stay out late, we recommend our VIP Club Night, and for Bachelors – a Special Party – we’ll pull out all the stops so you have an unforgettable night and even deliver brunch (and more) if you’ve booked a house with us!

Things to do (for everyone) in Mexico City

Angel de la Independencia - Independence angel

You finally did it: you booked your trip to Mexico City. Now it’s time to plan your days there. You know you want to absorb the local culture, do some shopping and, of course, eat and drink as much as possible. But where to start? And how to keep everyone happy during the trip? This guide to just some of the Things to Do in Mexico City aims to help you plan your trip.

In a city as big as Mexico City, your best bet is to plan your schedule by neighborhood and prioritize those that fit your vibe. For example, spend an entire day shopping, dining, and museum-hopping in Polanco, or split your day between trendy, neighboring areas like Roma and Juárez. This way, you’ll save valuable time instead of sitting in traffic. You’ll also get a great sense of what makes each neighborhood in CDMX so unique.

Walk in the City’s Neighborhoods

Young Caucasian woman walking in Mexico City

Walking around Mexico City’s neighborhoods is an incomparable way to soak up the city’s diversity and color. Find charming cafés and restaurants in the leafy streets of Condesa, especially along its main avenue, Amsterdam, or the beautiful Parque España. Nearby, Roma is lined with trendy restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Many of them are housed in gorgeous restored houses from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The dining scene is also strong in Polanco, particularly in the area that surrounds Parque Lincoln. This lovely park is usually populated with local families enjoying a day out. This neighborhood is also your best bet for high-end shopping. Its main avenue, Presidente Masaryk, is home to a fabulous selection of designer boutiques.

Should you want a glimpse of the city’s more whimsical neighborhoods, head to Coyoacán and San Ángel, both in the southern part of town. San Ángel boasts gorgeous cobblestone streets lined with colonial-style houses and bougainvillea. It’s a particularly excellent destination on Saturdays when local designers and crafts makers gather at Bazaar del Sábado to showcase their creations. In Coyoacán, you’ll find a lovely square called Jardín Centenario, lined with restaurants and coffee shops, as well as the aforementioned market and, of course, the Frida Kahlo Museum.

Find out more about Mexico City’s Neighbourhoods in our Where to Stay Guide.

Mexico City’s Bars and Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Mexico City is still buzzing with life. Cocktail aficionados will appreciate the city’s booming mixology scene, present in bars like Brujas, in Colonia Roma. It’s a female-run spot that serves intriguing concoctions with mystical names. While in Roma, plan a visit to Licorería Limantour, a pioneer in the city’s cocktail renaissance. Over in nearby Juárez, the team at Handshake Bar serves creative and exquisitely presented drinks in an elegant speakeasy setting.

Those who want to explore the mystical world of mezcal should head to La Botica, with spots in Centro Histórico and Roma, or visit La Clandestina, in Condesa. With laid-back atmospheres and knowledgeable staff, these bars are ideal for sipping on this agave spirit.

If you feel like dancing, make sure to check out Salón San Luis, in Colonia Roma. The old-school vibe –waiters in white blazers, a live band onstage– sets the mood for a night of cumbia and salsa dancing til your feet hurt.

Two Travel can help your build your journey – from accommodation to day trips to restaurant reservations. Fill in this form and we’ll be your local Mexico City guide from the moment you start planning.

Mexico City for Art and Culture Lovers

With more than 150 museums, it’s safe to say that the Mexico City museum scene covers whatever interest and passion you and your group may have. History buffs will be in awe of Museo Nacional de Antropología, in Chapultepec. It’s a stunning space with 22 halls dedicated to archaeology and ethnography, granting an incomparable glimpse into Mexican culture. Those who love classic art cannot miss MUNAL (Museo Nacional de Arte), in Centro Histórico. The building itself is an early 20th-century masterpiece. Discover Mexican art produced between the 16th and 20th centuries, including masterpieces by Raúl Anguiano and Saturnino Herrán.

If modern and contemporary art is your thing, head to Museo de Arte Moderno and Museo Tamayo, both located in the Chapultepec area, or visit Museo Jumex, in nearby Polanco. These spaces offer fascinating permanent collections and temporary exhibitions featuring some of the most prominent names in art. Mexico City is also home to unique and quirky museums, such as MODO, Museo del Objeto del Objeto. This design-oriented museum in Colonia Roma exhibits ordinary objects that tell extraordinary stories.

Explore Mexico City’s Markets

Exploring Mexican markets is a true feast for the senses. A colorful, loud, and sometimes overwhelming but always exhilarating ride. Although you’ll find markets of all sizes scattered across the city, here are a few of the most iconic ones. Our Cooking Class and Market Tour is a perfect introduction.

Mercado Coyoacán boasts countless rows of traditional market fare – fruits and vegetables, meat, spices and more. It’s also home to quite a few esoteric stalls, selling candles, crystals, and potions. No visit to this market is complete without a stop at its tostada restaurant. Treat yourself to tostadas topped with everything from chicken to shrimp cocktails.

Mercado San Juan, in the city’s downtown area, is a true paradise for those whose travel is led by food. Fresh fish and seafood, an impressive variety of meats (including exotic meats like iguana and boar), and edible insects coexist in the same space as colorful fruits and vegetables, Asian specialty foods, and European cold cuts and cheeses. 

Over at La Ciudadela, a dazzling selection of Mexican crafts awaits. La Ciudadela holds creations from around 350 vendors from all around the country. It’s perfect for authentic souvenirs, offering authentic textiles, silver, pottery, wooden alebrijes, and sculptures.

And for another colorful experience, make a trip to Mercado Jamaica, which specializes in plants and flowers. Although you may not be able to bring your purchases home with you, it is a true spectacle to see the variety of species sold here, as well as some of the creative flower arrangements offered for celebrations such as weddings and quinceañera parties. 

For more ideas on what to do in Mexico City, take a look at our Mexico City Experiences or give us a call to help Build Your Journey.

Tolantongo Hot Springs

Tropical paradise of Tolantongo

These hot springs are fantastic day trip from Mexico City. Start your day relaxing in cliff top pools with a view over the countryside, before a dip in the warm river waters and a chance to see the famous cave and waterfall of this special turquoise water paradise.

This tour can be done in one day, leaving early from Mexico City for the four hour drive to the hot springs in Tolantantongo.  You’re sure to enjoy the cleansing properties of the turquoise hot springs. We recommend taking this tour on a weekday when the pools are a little quieter.

Following breakfast en-route, on arrival at the hot springs, we get to the cliff top pools early in the day, so you can get that sought after Instagram shot in these one-of-a-kind pools.  Each pool is fed by the natural hot springs in this area, and due to the minerals found in the rocks, the water is an incredible hue. It’s a natural spa – no filters required!

You can opt for a zipline down from the pools to the river, or hike down through nature.  The river is also a wonderful color, and warm to the touch. It’s a great place for a dip, followed by a delicious lunch on the riverside. 

After lunch, you can enjoy the pools or the river, or for the more adventurous, explore the tunnels and caves that lead to a beautiful waterfall spot.  Make sure to bring water shoes or hiking sandals that you don’t mind getting wet, along with a waterproof cover for your phone or camera.

Teotihuacan Pyramids by Balloon

Tick off two bucket list activities in one day trip from Mexico City.  Visit Teotihuacan – the pre-Aztec City of the Gods – and get a feel for the scale of this ancient city and its incredible pyramids by hot air balloon, before walking the site itself.

At about 50km north east of Mexico City, Teotihuacan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a city of great historical importance built over 2,000 years ago.  We leave early in the morning to get to the pyramids for a dawn flight over the City of the Gods in a hot air balloon.

Your hot air balloon is perfect for 12 people, so if you’re in a group on vacation for a special occasion, this is a fantastic day trip to take.  Following a light breakfast (and some mezcal for those afraid of heights!), we set sail above this ancient city in your very own hot air balloon.  You will get some incredible shots of the most important monuments – the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and the Temple of Quetzacoatzl.  Enjoy the views and the morning light for 40-50 minutes – a truly magical experience!

On landing, we treat you to a glass of champagne, a coffee and more to eat, before driving over to the site itself.  You’ll have the opportunity to walk the site, exploring the magnificent structures with a guide who will reveal all the interesting stories of this mesoamerican city. 

We recommend wearing layers and closed shoes for this trip, because it can be chilly in the early morning, and the sun is strong later in the day.  Bring sunscreen and a hat if you plan to walk a lot, as there is very little shade in Teotihuacan.  Transport to and from your accommodation in Mexico City is included.

Xochimilco Boat Party

Young women driving in car – sharing a ride to work or going for a road trip together.

A couple of hours by boat along the Xochimilco canals is a popular activity for tourist groups and locals alike, especially at weekends. These colorful boats known as trajineras are perfect for a party, sometimes with your very own Mariachi band!

Xochimilco is an ancient network of canals and islands, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the south of Mexico City.  Every weekend, the canals are alive with boats, music, food and drink sellers, and flowers.  It’s a fantastic amount of fun and an entertaining way to spend an afternoon in nature.

As part of this tour, we not only organize your boat, but also a cooler of drinks, plenty of snacks, and some music to dance the afternoon away.  This is a great option for groups on vacation, and if you’re celebrating a special occasion, just let us know, so we can plan all the bells and whistles to make this an afternoon on the water no to be missed.

Cooking Class and Market Tour

What better way to explore Mexican culture than by exploring a local market to buy ingredients, and then working with a chef to create a delicious 4-course Mexican meal?  This tour is a must for foodies, and takes place in the beautiful La Roma neighborhood.

Your first stop will be a local market in the Roma area of Mexico City.  Here, you’ll rub shoulders with locals buying the freshest ingredients and finding out about the vibrant flavors of Mexico.  Once we’ve bought all the ingredients (and tasted a few things too), we’ll walk to a local kitchen, where you’ll help to prepare lunch – appetizers, Mexican salsas, tortillas, a delicious main course, and of course something sweet to finish.  

After all that work, it’s time to enjoy the fruits and flavors of your labor.  We’ll eat lunch together, sharing recipes and enjoying a Mexican mezcal, craft beer or wine.