10 Days in Colombia: Iconic Cities, Colorful Streets & Caribbean Coastlines!

Welcome to Bogotá, Capital of the Andes Arrive at the El Dorado International Airport (BOG) and the capital of Colombia, located at 2,600 meters above sea level. The past and the present blend in this metropolis founded in 1538 to offer you varied artistic expressions that include museum exhibits, dance, theater, music, and splendid cuisine. The "city of contrasts" as it is rightly called; Bogota will offer you every spectacle ranging from shanty neighborhoods to high-rise apartments and walking through the historical center is an experience that takes you back to the past while living the present intensely. Its streets have witnessed the passing of centuries, and every window, door, and corner has a story to tell. Your private driver will meet you for a transfer to your accommodation in the city; along the way, you'll get a short introduction to Bogota ́s history and a quick briefing on the next day's activities. Meals: ---

Bogotá’s Historic Center on Foot Bogota Private City Tour We'll embark on a walking tour through Colombia's bustling capital. In La Candelaria's historic center, colonial buildings housing theaters, galleries, libraries, and museums stand alongside government offices and palaces. Rustic bakeries mingle with photocopy shops and bookstores, creating a vibrant tapestry where office workers and students intersect with fruit and wafer vendors. At Plaza de Bolívar, Bogotá's expansive central square, we'll explore key government edifices. Continuing along Carrera Séptima, Bogotá's lively pedestrian thoroughfare, we'll visit the city's oldest church, San Francisco, and the renowned Gold Museum (closed on Mondays). Finally, you’ll visit the Botero Museum a place full of interesting art from one of the most worldwide recognized Colombian artist Fernando Botero Meals: B/-/-

Salt Cathedral Wonder in Zipaquirá After breakfast, your guide will pick you up and take you 50 km out through the high plains north of Bogota we visit a true masterpiece: the unique salt cathedral of Zipaquirá. Upon arrival, you will see little by little, a multicolored phosphorescent light appeared and illuminated the walls of the Zipaquirá's Salt Cathedral, a monumental architectural masterpiece built by the miners' own hands and which became a beautiful temple. This wonderful salt mine is in the town of Zipaquirá, the capital of the department of Cundinamarca, only 48 kilometers from Bogotá. It is buried deep in the hill of Zipa (the name of the most important Indigenous chief), at 2,652 meters above sea level with an average temperature of 14 ̊C. Before entering the cathedral, the first thing you see is the plaza of flags where you will find the sculpture of the Virgen de Guasá (meaning salt and water). She is the miners' patron saint and has a miner at her feet. In the Ceremonial Plaza, you will see the Cardinal Cross, the mining monument, the bell tower, and the fountains. Meals: B/-/-

From Bogotá to Medellín’s Urban Spirit Arriving at Jose Maria Cordova Airport, our team will receive you to transfer to the hotel, so you have a great place to stay, as soon as you’re ready, we explore Medellín, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," on a tour that traverses diverse neighborhoods and key points of interest. Our journey commences at Parque del Poblado and leads us through the administrative center of La Alpujarra, Botero Plaza, the Botanical Garden featuring its orchidarium and butterfly reserve, Pueblito Paisa, and other renowned landmarks. This exclusive city tour provides insights into the city's economic, social, and cultural evolution. Meals: B/-/-

Guatapé Colors & Views from El Peñol The Peñol Rock is one of the most spectacular destinations in the surroundings of Medellin. The 200-meter-high monolith can be climbed via a staircase of 740 steps. Breathtaking views over the stunning Guatape reservoir, over green mountains and blue water, make up for the climb. The nearby village of Guatape is small and peaceful with a pleasantly warm and mild climate. It is famous for its church and colorfully painted and decorated houses. Our trip here involves a scenic drive out of Medellin and into the picturesque highlands of the department of Antioquia. We can climb the Peñol rock and enjoy a delicious Colombian lunch on the waterfront of the Guatapé reservoir afterward. In the afternoon there is time to explore the water reservoir on a boat ride, stroll around, and relax. Meals: B/-/-

Coastal Arrival and Santa Marta Tour We start our tour around Santa Marta at Quinta San Pedro Alejandrino, the sugar cane farm where liberator Simon Bolivar had spent his final days and died in December 1830. The estate, now owned by Joaquín de Mier, has been turned into a museum and we can see some of the utensils and objects that date back to Bolivarian times in the 18th and 19th centuries. We will also see the original bed the great liberator passed away in and have a chance to learn about the glorious moments of the South American hero of independence through various artworks exhibited here. Afterward, we visit Santa Marta's historic city center, the oldest church in Colombia, the Simón Bolivar Park, the Los Novios Park, the San Francisco Church, and the city ́s ocean esplanade. Meals: B/-/-

Hiking Beaches of Tayrona National Park Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park! Departing in the morning, we head to El Zaino, the park’s main entrance, and stroll to the stunning Cañaveral Beach, where breathtaking views of the Atlantic await. Enjoy a scenic 1-hour hike through lush tropical forest to Arrecife Beach, then savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (not included). Afterward, explore more of the park with a leisurely hike past pristine beaches like Arenillas, La Piscina, and the iconic Cabo San Juan Beach, where you’ll have time to swim and unwind. A perfect day of nature, beauty, and relaxation! Meals: B/L/-

To Cartagena: A Colonial Gem by the Sea After a picturesque 4-hour journey by car from Santa Marta to Cartagena, you'll witness the transition from lush green landscapes to the vibrant blues of the Caribbean Sea as Cartagena comes into view. Cartagena invites you to explore its rich cultural tapestry and coastal beauty. In Cartagena de Indias, colonial elegance merges with Caribbean flair. The city's historic walls and fortresses tell stories of gold and pirates, while its cobblestone streets, verdant squares, and brightly painted facades evoke the settings of Gabriel García Márquez's novels. This meticulously restored UNESCO World Heritage site is best explored on foot, by horse-drawn carriage, or by bicycle—allowing for a slow and enjoyable discovery. From atop the city walls, take in views of terracotta rooftops on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. Nearby, the Rosario Islands beckon with their postcard-perfect white sandy beaches and crystal-clear Caribbean waters, offering an idyllic setting for relaxation. Meals: B/-/-

Taste Cartagena: Market & Cooking Class On this special day, accompanied by our chef and course instructor, this culinary tour starts visiting the market ‚Mercado de Bazurto‘, where you can try different fruit types typical for the season. You will have a walk through the market’s colorful, festive, genuine, and bustling aisles, where you will also buy the ingredients for the class and learn about Cartagena’s gastronomical and cultural traditions. Once you have bought everything, you return to Getsemaní, where a fully equipped restaurant kitchen is waiting for you to prepare the traditional menu which is always served with Cartagena’s famous coconut rice. For dessert, there are varying options, for example, fruit jelly or cocodas. As soon as everything is ready, it is time to try and share your newly gained knowledge. Here ends this service and you are free to walk back to the hotel or enjoy Cartagena on your own. Meals: B/L/-

Farewell Colombia – Departure Day Pack your bags! Private transportation will be waiting for you at Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG). Farewell Cartagena de Indias, we will see you next time! Meals: B/-/-