Das Beste von Kolumbien (11 Tage)

Today, you will explore one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities in South America! Our tour begins in the historic La Candelaria area (Bogotá's old town), where we’ll cycle through the city, visiting landmarks such as Plaza Bolívar, Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá, Casa de Nariño, Calle 7, San Francisco Church, Los Periodistas Park, a Coffee Factory, the Fruit Market, and the Graffiti Tour.

­ 

Next, we will head to Monserrate Hill (via cable car), located on the east side of Bogotá, where you will be treated to stunning panoramic views of the entire city, home to over 11 million people. Afterward, we will return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

­ 

NOTE: IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE OR NO DESIRE TO JOIN THE TOUR BY BIKE , JUST NOTIFY US IN ADVANCE , SO WE CAN STILL DO THE SAME CITY TOUR BOGOTA WALKING AND PARTS BY CAR

­ 

­ 

Overnight: Hotel Tequedama or Similar ***   (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

­

Early Early in the morning, you will embark on a scenic drive to the Guatavita area and its sacred lagoon, a journey of about one hour from Bogotá.Upon arrival, you will enjoy a one-hour hike, taking in the stunning Andean landscapes and the serene beauty of the lagoon.

­ 

Next, you will head to the charming town of Zipaquirá, located just a short distance from the lagoon. Here, you will have time to explore this colorful and magical town, where you can savor a meal and enjoy a refreshing local beer or juice.

­ 

Zipaquirá is also known as the second hometown of the famous Colombian writer Gabriel García Márquez. Afterward, you will visit one of Colombia’s most iconic landmarks, the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral. This fascinating site, located 300 feet underground, sits within one of South America's oldest salt mines, making it a truly unique experience.

­ 

Construction of this remarkable site began in 1950, and it stands as a symbol of Catholicism in South America. The tour is self-guided (available in multiple languages) and consists of 22 stations. Using a device provided at the entrance, you can explore at your own pace while learning about the history and significance of this incredible place.

­ 

Finally, you will meet our transportation for the return trip to Bogotá, where you can enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the city.

­ 

Overnight: Hotel Tequendama or Similar ***  (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

­ 

NOTE: Put in consideration that the Guatavita lake is closed every Monday, may affect the normal operation of the tour.  

­

Early in the morning, you will be transferred to Bogotá Airport for a local flight to Pereira. Upon arrival, you will be driven to the picturesque village of Salento, renowned for its colorful town and unique houses.

­ 

In the afternoon, you will visit a local coffee farm, located just a short distance from Salento. Known as Buenos Aires, this farm has been producing coffee for over 100 years. Throughout the visit, you will gain insight into one of Colombia's most significant industries.

­ 

A guided tour of the entire farm will be provided, and at the end of the tour, you may enjoy as many cups of high-quality coffee as you desire (all included in the program).

­ 

Finally, return to Salento for an overnight stay.­ 

­ 

Overnight: Beta Town Hotel or Similar ***  (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B 

­ ­

On this day, you will have the opportunity to visit the Cocora Valley and its surroundings in a classic Jeep Willy (subject to availability; depending on the season, this activity may be done in a private car).

­ 

In the park, you can enjoy a walk for an hour or more, depending on your preferences and weather conditions, as you admire the towering Giant Wax Palms (one of the country’s most iconic trees).

­ 

The hike can be extended up to 5 hours if the entire group agrees, or you may opt for a shorter 1-hour walk.

­ 

Finally, return to Salento for an overnight stay.

­ 

Overnight: Beta Town Hotel or Similar *** (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

Morning transport to Pereira , then take an early flight to Medellín (approximately 30 minutes). Upon arrival, we will provide a guided tour of the city, including Comuna 13, where you will learn about the history of Pablo Escobar and the lives of the locals.

­ 

Next, you will take a cable car ride to admire the city from above, visit the Botero sculptures, explore Parque Lleras, and discover a few other notable spots along the way.

­ 

At the end of the day, you can relax and enjoy the gardens at the hotel.

­ 

Overnight: Art Boutique Hotel or Similar *** (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

­ ­

In the morning, depart for a visit to one of the most famous areas in all of Colombia. The excursion begins in downtown Medellín, heading toward the picturesque town of Marinilla, where you can try a traditional Paisa snacks.

­ 

Afterward, we will continue on to Guatapé Lake, where you will board a motorboat for a tour around the area. During the tour, you will enjoy breathtaking views perfect for photographs, as well as glimpse one of Escobar’s former houses, along with residences of other wealthy families.

­ 

Next, we will visit a place called La Réplica, a charming little village where you can take beautiful photos and purchase souvenirs. Afterward, we will head to the famous gigantic rock known as El Peñón de Guatapé, a natural formation created 80 million years ago.

­ 

Standing over 220 meters (700 feet) high, this rock can be accessed by climbing over 720 steps. While the climb is not difficult, the stunning views of the entire valley from the top are truly spectacular!

­ 

You will then have the opportunity to enjoy a typical lunch on your own. Finally, we will visit the town of Guatapé, where you will have plenty of time to explore on your own, take as many pictures as you like, or pick up a beautiful souvenir. At the end of the day, you will take a flight to Cartagena for an overnight stay.

­ 

Overnight: Ibis Hotel or Similar ***  (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

­ ­

Today we will take you on a full day excursion to visit Isla del Rosario and several nearby islands,  you will enjoy sailing and motor sailing for approximately one hour and a quarter to the Rosario Islands.

­ 

We stop at an idyllic beach with turquoise waters and white sands in the Natural National Park of the Rosario Islands, where you can swim enjoying and practice snorkeling, if you wish, admiring the fascinating underwater life with its colorful tropical fish and various types of coral.

­ 

Meanwhile, on board, the crew prepares a delicious seafood rice for you to enjoy in such an exclusive environment.

­ 

Finally, you will sail back to Cartagena. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to explore the city at your leisure.

­ 

Overnight: Ibis Hotel or Similar *** (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B- L

­

After breakfast, it will be time to check out! We will then begin a city sightseeing tour of Cartagena, where you will explore the city's highlights with our guide, including the Castillo de San Felipe, the Getsemaní neighborhood, the commercial area, and the downtown, which still retains much of its charm from the 16th century.

­ 

Next, our transport will take you to Santa Marta, located on the northern coast of the Colombian Caribbean (approximately a 3-hour drive). Along the way, you will enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean and small villages nestled along the coast.

­ 

Finally, you will arrive at the hotel in the heart of Santa Marta, where you will have plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy during your free time.

­

Overnight: Bonita Bay Hotel or Similar *** (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

­ 

­

In the morning, we will set off for Tayrona Park, located about an hour from Santa Marta by car. Upon arrival, our guide will provide an overview of the itinerary and share information about the park itself.

­ 

The program includes a 2-hour hike to Cabo San Juan (6 km), with visits to Arrecife, Arenillas, La Piscina, and San Juan. Although the hike can be challenging, it offers stunning views along the way.

­ 

Upon reaching Cabo San Juan, you will have time to relax, take pictures, and enjoy the beach. If desired, you can have lunch at a local restaurant (approximately USD 10, not included). 

­ 

For the return journey, if you are feeling tired, you may choose to take a horse ride back for about USD 15 each way, or you can continue hiking back to the starting point. Afterward, we will return you to your hotel in Santa Marta.

­ ­ 

**************************** IMPORTANT INFO *************************

­ 

Tayrona National Park (including its beaches in Santa Marta) closes every year 3 times in the following dates:

­ 

1 to 15 February / 1 to 15 June / 18 October to 2 November

If your tour program is affected by these dates , instead we visit Minca Area as follows:

After an hour's drive, we'll start a two-hour hike through the jungle of Minca, enjoying the lush vegetation of the area. Find out about the biodiversity of Santa Marta.

­ 

We will stop at a 'hacienda' or estate, where we'll talk about the preparation of coffee and its derivatives, and we'll even have the chance to drink some freshly-brewed coffee. Afterwards, we'll reach the beautiful El Oído del Mundo waterfall for a refreshing swim. Then lunch and finally our transport will drop off you at the hotel in town as shown in itinerary.

­ 

If you want to know more about these 3 indigenous holydays, you can check on line as:

• KUGKUI SHIKASA (Mother earth energy renovation)
• SAKA JUSO ( The sacred season)
• SAKA JUSO (Earth thanksgiving)

Overnight: Bonita Bay Hotel or Similar *** (ASK FOR HOTEL UPGRADES IF NEEDED)

Meals: B

Our guide will drive you back to Santa Marta´s international Airport, for your flight home… END OF THE SERVICES! 

­ 

JUST CONFIRM YOUR FLIGHT IN ADVANCE. 

­ 

By the way you can flight out of Colombia from this Airport, otherwise if need it also works to flight back to Bogota for your International Flight home 

(FLIGHTS AND EXTRA NIGHTS ON THIS DAY ARE NOT INCLUDED IN PROGRAM).

­ 

(We hope to welcome you again on one of our other destinations soon!!)

­ 

Meals: B 

­