Full Day Private Adventure Tour to San Cipriano

Discover the Hidden Charm of San Cipriano on a Full-Day Private Tour from Cali

If you’re looking to escape the urban rhythm of Cali and step into the lush greenery of Colombia’s countryside, this full-day private adventure to San Cipriano is a fantastic choice. For around $250 per person, you’ll enjoy a tailored experience that includes jungle hikes, river tubing, and swimming in waterfalls, all within a rural village with just 400 residents. The tour lasts roughly 12 hours, starting early in the morning with hotel pickup, which makes logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: first, the unique transportation—the “brujita”, a motorized bike running along old railroad tracks, offers an exhilarating way to enter the jungle. Second, the opportunity to customize your day in a private setting means your experience can focus on what excites you most, whether that’s wildlife spotting, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery.

A possible consideration is the moderate physical activity involved. The tour involves jungle walks, water activities, and some climbing around waterfalls, which might be a bit much for travelers with knee problems or limited mobility. However, for active travelers who love nature and adventure, this tour offers a genuine, up-close look at Colombia’s natural splendor.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with some physical exertion, but it’s also perfect for those seeking a cultural experience outside the city. If you’re looking for a memorable day immersed in nature, combined with local food and stunning vistas, this trip hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic access to San Cipriano via the iconic “brujita” train-trolley combo
• Flexible, private itinerary tailored to your interests
• Multiple opportunities for swimming, river tubing, and viewing waterfalls
• Includes local cuisine, offering a taste of regional flavors
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics
• Suitable for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures

A Deep Dive into the San Cipriano Experience

When we think about Colombia’s natural beauty, it’s often the lush tropical landscapes and waterfalls that come to mind. This tour distills that essence into a single day, giving you a taste of rural life and untouched nature all in one trip. Starting from a central point in Cali, the journey begins with a picturesque 30-minute ride on a brujita—a motorized bike that runs along the old railroad tracks—an experience that’s both fun and uniquely Colombian. Riding along tracks through the jungle, you’ll feel a sense of adventure from the very start.

Córdoba: The Gateway to the Jungle

Your adventure kicks off in Córdoba, the entry point into the San Cipriano Reserve. This small town, with its laid-back vibe, is where you’ll first step into the natural world. The “brujitas” take you directly into the greenery, creating a sense of thrill and nostalgia as you leave behind Cali’s hustle. The ride is about 15-20 minutes, making it a short but memorable journey that sets the tone for the day. We loved the way this transport creates a tangible sense of adventure, mixing rustic charm with excitement.

Exploring San Cipriano

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your local guide and get a glimpse of rural Colombian life. This town, with only 400 inhabitants, maintains a simple, indigenous character. The guide, often the only female in the sector, brings a personal touch to the tour, sharing insights about local life and the environment. Here, you’ll leave behind your belongings you don’t need during the activities, which keeps the focus on the experience itself.

Water-filled Adventures and Waterfalls

From San Cipriano, the real fun begins. A short walk brings you to the San Cipriano River, where you can see fish, swim, and jump into deep pools—refreshing after the walk. The highlight is visiting four waterfalls, each offering stunning scenery and perfect photo opportunities. The guides often lead you in a river descent using a tire as a float, which we found to be both safe and exhilarating.

The reviews echo this thrill. One traveler commented, “Once we arrived at Córdoba, we took a Brujita over to San Cipriano, and once there, we began our walk into the jungle to visit waterfalls and swim in the river.” This element of the tour offers a genuine connection with nature—no crowds, just you and the wilderness.

Local Flavors and Relaxation

After all the water fun, a visit to a local restaurant offers a chance to unwind and savor authentic regional dishes. The delicious traditional lunch is a highlight, giving you a taste of Colombia beyond the scenery. The relaxed pace allows you to enjoy the meal, chat with locals, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Customization and Flexibility

Being a private tour, the itinerary can be adapted to your interests. Whether you want more time in the water, additional jungle walks, or just a leisurely lunch, your guide Cristian (or another local) can tailor the day. This flexibility is a big plus, especially for travelers who prefer a personalized experience over a rigid schedule.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the activities are exciting, they do require moderate physical fitness. The jungle walks and water activities involve some climbing and balance. The tour’s mention of not being suitable for travelers with knee problems is worth noting if you have mobility concerns. Also, given the outdoor nature, it’s wise to pack waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and sun protection.

Weather can impact the day—poor weather might lead to a cancellation or rescheduling, but the flexible policy offers peace of mind. And since the tour is only for your group, you won’t have to share the experience with strangers, making it more intimate and relaxed.

Analyzing the Value

At $250 per person, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking a full day of adventure and culture. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, saving you time and hassle. The ride on the brujita alone is a memorable experience that many travelers wouldn’t find elsewhere, and the opportunity to enjoy swimming in waterfalls and river tubing is worth the price for adventure lovers.

The fact that the tour is privately tailored means you get more personalized attention and flexibility, making it feel like a true custom experience rather than a generic group outing. Plus, reviews praise the delicious local meals and the friendly guides, adding to the overall value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who appreciate nature, culture, and authentic local encounters. If you enjoy water activities, hiking, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also suited for those who value private, flexible arrangements over crowded group tours.

However, if you have mobility limitations or prefer less physically demanding activities, it’s worth considering whether the jungle walks and river descents are suitable for you.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Cali, which makes the day hassle-free and more comfortable.

How long does the transportation on the “brujita” last?
The ride from Córdoba to San Cipriano on the brujita lasts about 15-20 minutes, offering a fun and scenic entrance into the jungle.

What kind of activities are involved?
Expect jungle walks, swimming in waterfalls, river tubing, and relaxing at a local restaurant for a traditional meal. Moderate physical activity is involved.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Travelers with knee problems or mobility issues should consult their doctor before booking.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and possibly a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the scenery.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, being a private experience, your guide can tailor the activities according to your interests and energy levels.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour to San Cipriano offers a genuine peek into Colombia’s natural beauty, combining adventurous water activities, scenic jungle walks, and authentic local cuisine. The ride on the brujita alone is worth the price, providing a memorable journey into the countryside that many travelers won’t forget.

The flexibility of a private tour means you can focus on what excites you most, whether that’s exploring waterfalls, spotting wildlife, or simply relaxing in nature. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want an active, authentic experience—one that balances adventure with culture.

If you’re after a day that’s packed with fun, stunning views, and a taste of local life, this San Cipriano trip could be just the ticket. It’s especially ideal for travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with a sense of discovery that’s both thrilling and rewarding.

Additional Resources

Looking for more Colombia adventures? Check out other tours like the Street Food Tour or Cali City Tour to round out your trip, or explore the Magic Pance River Tour for more water-based fun.