Colombia, a vibrant and diverse country located in South America, is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Stroll through the vibrant cities, pulsating with life and radiant with a palette of colors that reflects the nation's dynamic culture.
Unwind on the nation's pristine beaches, undisturbed stretches of golden sand that promise serenity.
Delight in Colombia's world-renowned aromatic coffee, a product of its fertile grounds that is integral to its national identity.
Trek through the dense jungle and experience first hand the planet's second most biodiverse country.
Admire the stunning colonial architecture of Colombia's historic towns.
South America's best kept secret!
Stroll through the vibrant cities, pulsating with life and radiant with a palette of colors that reflects the nation's dynamic culture.
Unwind on the nation's pristine beaches, undisturbed stretches of golden sand that promise serenity.
Delight in Colombia's world-renowned aromatic coffee, a product of its fertile grounds that is integral to its national identity.
Trek through the dense jungle and experience first hand the planet's second most biodiverse country.
Admire the stunning colonial architecture of Colombia's historic towns.
South America's best kept secret!
Following the 2016 historic peace deal with the FARC rebel group, Colombia has seen a major improvement in safety levels, reinforcing its appeal as an inviting and secure destination for tourists worldwide. Indeed, Colombia has featured in many "Best Places to Visit in 2024" lists, including HuffPost and Forbes' Travel & Leisure.
PROVISIONAL ITINERARY
DAY 1: Arrival – BogotáBienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia.
Your adventure begins in the capital city Bogota with a welcome meeting at 6pm. If you arrive early, you can join your leader and fellow travellers early for an orientation walk around this gorgeous town at 1 pm this afternoon. Check out the colonial-era buildings framed by mountains and the cobblestoned centre of La Candelaria. Later, head out for a welcome dinner with the group at one of the local restaurants. Your leader will have all the best recommendations! |
DAY 2: Bogotá-Pereira-SalentoToday, arise nice and early and explore the colourful Paloquemao Market with your trip leader. Get to know the locals and try new flavours at this bustling whirlwind of colours and scents.
From the market, hop on a short flight to Colombia's famous coffee region and then transfer to the beautiful village of Salento. When you arrive, take your time strolling through the quaint streets and admiring the paisa architecture. For dinner tonight, maybe tuck into the local favourite of trout – there are many different ways to enjoy it here, but mostly, it's served with a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Colombia's national sport, Tejo, is a popular pastime in Salento – think bocce with gunpowder! If you're game, visit the local tejo hall and give it a go. |
DAY 3: Pereira-ChinchináToday, hop in a jeep and head out to the Cocora Valley – home of the tall wax palm (Colombia's national tree). You could spend the morning checking out the region's awesome scenery on foot with a hike to Finca la Montana. At 2860 m, there are some pretty incredible views of Morrogacho Mountain (if cloud and fog permit) and the valley below during the hike to the top. If you'd rather take it easy, you can explore the valley on your own and then cruise back to town in a jeep.
Later, travel deep into Colombia's coffee region for a two-night stay at Guayabal – an old-school coffee estancia, owned and run by a local family in Chinchina. Guayabal has been in the family since 1950, survived an earthquake in 1979 and with lots of dedication and hard work, became the humble estancia it is today, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain peaks. |
DAY 4: ChinchináThanks to the tropical altitude and fertile volcanic soil, Colombia is one of the world’s biggest coffee producers. You’ll get to know this addictive little bean much better on a guided tour of the coffee plantation and processing centre today. Dig into the history of the plant, learning the inside story of the industry that's long buoyed the country's economy. See how the beans are grown and harvested, processed, dried, roasted and ground, and then sample first-hand what all the fuss is about. You’ll try different types of coffee grains and get a lesson on preparing them, finishing it all off with a steaming cup of freshly brewed joe. Later, relax amid the estancia's beautiful surroundings of sloping green hills and valleys.
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DAY 5: Chinchiná-MedellinJump aboard a comfortable public bus this morning and head to Medellin. This is a bit of a long drive, so grab a good book or your favourite playlist or play some road trip games and get to know your group a little better. When you arrive, your leader will take you on an orientation walk so you can get your bearings.
Learn about how Medellin spent the 1980s and 90s with an international reputation as one of the world's most dangerous cities (no thanks to Pablo Escobar's notorious drug cartel). Medellin has now turned itself around to become one of the most exciting cities in South America. With some of the country's finest museums, parks and architecture (and a much safer and more comfortable atmosphere), it's easy to see why it's getting more popular. Tonight, you’re free to relax or ask your leader for the best local hang outs where you can try some arepas (crispy white corn cakes usually stuffed with meat and vegetables. |
DAY 6: MedellinToday, you’ll take part in a Barrio transformation tour.
Take a metro cable Acevedo to meet your local guide and discover more about how Medellin has transformed its most populated neighbourhoods. You’ll explore its history, the struggle of its people, the outstanding achievements and the different faces of the city’s recent transformation. Later, return to Medellin, where you’ll have free time to search out one of the city's pumping salsa bars (Medellin's nightlife may well be the best in Colombia!) |
DAY 8: Medellin-Santa Marta-Tayrona areaThis morning, you’ll fly to Santa Marta and then take a private transfer north to Palomino – a small town on the Caribbean coast of Colombia in the Guajira region. Watch the scenery go by and maybe get stuck into your book before arriving this afternoon. When you arrive, your leader will show you around Palomino town and if you fancy, you can pick up some empanadas for lunch. This is the perfect town for some quality beach time, so with your free afternoon, why not laze on the warm sands and enjoy the views (on a clear day) of the glacial peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
If you’re looking for something more active, visit the surrounding National Park for a hike. Tonight, take the chance to feast on some fresh seafood, like lionfish or prawns – with its Caribbean location, Palomino is naturally home to some excellent restaurants with some of the freshest and tastiest seafood in Colombia. The best of them can be found at the far end of the beach, where the river meets the sea. |
DAY 9: TayronaFull-Day Tayrona National Park excursion.
A large, protected area of the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta known for its palm-shaded coves, coastal lagoons and biodiverse rainforest. Here, you can soak up the stunning scenery of the Sierra Nevada ranges and the glittering Caribbean Sea. |
DAY 10: Tayrona - CartagenaTravel to Cartagena this morning – a port city on the Caribbean coast known for its walled Old Town founded in the 16th century. When you arrive, your leader will take you on a short orientation walk around the hotel.
Then, you’ll have the chance to soak up all this city offers at your own pace, with two whole days free. The Old Town’s inner walls are the main attraction – inside, it's packed with beautiful churches, monasteries and mansions. Maybe visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle or hit one of the nearby beaches. You could visit the Coral Islands or take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands for more coastal bliss. You could also take on a rum tasting (yum) or learn some new moves at a champeta dance class. If you fancy, maybe take a private sunset cruise on the water and watch the city transform as darkness falls. Your leader will be on hand to give you tips on making the best of your time. |
Suggested Tour Extension: |
Ciudad Perdida |
Journey to the fabled Lost City of Teyuna, an archaeological site hidden within the jungle-topped mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria, on the upper reaches of the Buricata River. This ancient site, although known to local tribes, was not "rediscovered" until 1972 and predates Machu Picchu by 650 years. Accessible only through a moderate multi-day jungle trek, the site features a 1,200-step stone staircase that guards its entrance. The climb to the top is rewarded by stunning views and the opportunity to explore
impressive tiled roads, terraces, and plazas that are intricately carved into the mountainside.
Visiting Machu Picchu can be as simple as jumping in a taxi, whereas visiting the Ciudad Perdida is a true accomplishment
that takes time, effort and perseverance.
impressive tiled roads, terraces, and plazas that are intricately carved into the mountainside.
Visiting Machu Picchu can be as simple as jumping in a taxi, whereas visiting the Ciudad Perdida is a true accomplishment
that takes time, effort and perseverance.
Suggested Tour Extension: |
Islas del Rosario |
The Islas del Rosario are located in the Caribbean Sea, about 35 km southwest of the port city of Cartagena.
An archipelago of 27 coral islands, a few of which are just tiny islets, they are renowned for their surrounding coral reefs
and beautifully clear waters.
Designated as a national park in 1977, you can spend your days swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing on the beach.
There are a wide variety of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from luxury resorts with spas to modest, more rustic hotels.
An archipelago of 27 coral islands, a few of which are just tiny islets, they are renowned for their surrounding coral reefs
and beautifully clear waters.
Designated as a national park in 1977, you can spend your days swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing on the beach.
There are a wide variety of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from luxury resorts with spas to modest, more rustic hotels.