Introductory Kayak Course

Day 1 - Kayaking Fundamentals & River Practice

Meet your instructors at 10:00 a.m. at Expedition Colombia’s operational office in Cocorná. After meeting the team and fitting your equipment, begin a complete introduction to whitewater kayaking.

Learn fundamental paddling techniques, boat control, balance, and steering before practicing on the calm waters of the Santo Domingo River. Throughout the day, build confidence on the water while developing your skills in a safe and progressive environment.

End the day with an overnight stay in a comfortable rural accommodation surrounded by nature beside the river.

Day 2 - First Whitewater Experience

Return to the river for your first whitewater experience. Learn how to read currents, identify obstacles, and understand how different river features affect your kayak.

Practice rescue techniques, safe wet exits, and essential maneuvering skills while paddling Class I and II river sections alongside your instructor. Finish the course with a strong technical foundation and the confidence to continue progressing in whitewater kayaking.

Start-point

The tour starts here at our operational base in Cocorná. Near the restaurant el Palacio de los frijoles on the Medellín-Bogotá highway. It’s easy to get there by public transport from Medellín or come in your own vehicle (free parking available).

If you're staying in Medellín, optional transport can be added at checkout, including pickup from Hostel Masaya or other locations. If you wish to organise private transport from another location please get in touch

- Day 1 -

Food: Lunch
Accommodation: Eco-lodge in nature


- Day 2 -

Food: Lunch

What is the food like ?

Enjoy a typical Colombian meal: the Antioquian fiambre! A traditional packed meal from Antioquia, wrapped in banana leaves and made for days out in nature. Our fiambres are delicious homemade meals made by the local communities with fresh ingredients usually including rice, veggies, plantain, egg and meat.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergy-friendly options are available, just message us!

For breakfast and dinner, you can cook in the fully equipped kitchen at the accommodation or enjoy one of the nearby local restaurants.

What is the accomodation like ?

The experience includes one night in a charming rural lodge near Cocorná.

The Cocorná region enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round, with temperatures generally ranging between 20 °C and 30 °C. Its rivers, rainforest, and mountains create ideal conditions for water-based adventures and outdoor activities.

• Certified professional bilingual kayak instructor (Spanish, English & French)
• Complete kayaking and safety equipment
• Local transportation during the activity
• Riverside eco-accommodation
• Lunches
• Medical Assistance Policy

• Transportation from Medellín to Cocorná
• Breakfast, dinner and beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips
• Additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

What do I need to bring?

• Passport for foreigners or ID for nationals. Physical document required.
• Lightweight long-sleeve quick-dry clothing
• Comfortable shorts or trousers for paddling
• Closed-toe river shoes or water booties
• Sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Sunglasses with retention strap
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Insect repellent
• Headlamp
• Change of dry clothes and footwear for after the activity
• Reusable water bottle