The journey
Harboring 10 percent of the entire planet’s biodiversity, Colombia bursts with vibrant wildlife at every turn. Pair this with a pleasant climate, unique natural wonders, rich culture and a flourishing culinary scene, and you have a destination that’s one of South America’s best-kept secrets. Pull back the curtain as our expert guides reveal exotic bird species, rare animals, fine coffees and rums, culinary marvels from Bogota to Cartagena and Medellín’s inspiring journey to peace.
Day 1
Arrive Bogota, Colombia
Set more than 8,500ft above sea level, Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, is a modern metropolis that benefits from a year-round spring-like climate. Food stalls in the lively Paloquemao market season the air with the smell of tempting delicacies, while La Candelaria, the oldest part of Bogotá, blends colonial-era architecture with contemporary museums and a lively arts scene.
Day 2
Bogotá – Soaring Mountain Capital
Stroll Bogotá’s lively Paloquemao market and sample local delicacies at its food stalls. Journey to Monserrate, located in the hills to the east of the city. Ascend this 10,000-foot peak by funicular railway or cable car to absorb inspiring vistas of the whole of Bogotá. Head back into town to explore La Candelaria, the oldest part of Bogotá, with its colonial-era architecture. The fascinating Gol
Day 3
La Macarena – Gateway to Remote Natural Wonders
Fly to La Macarena, a small town in a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty. It is also your gateway to Caño Cristales, often referred to as "The River of Five Colors” due to its vibrant aquatic plants. Board a wooden boat to encounter this "Liquid Rainbow” firsthand. Once ashore, hike to examine the Macarenia clavigera, an aquatic plant that turns shades of pink under certain conditions
Day 4
La Macarena – Into Caño Cristales
Boat down the scenic Guayabero River, ride a 4x4 through Sierra de La Macarena National Park and hike onward to return to the breathtaking Caño Cristales. Devote your day to hiking, picnicking and snapping photos amid the vibrant colors and cascading waterfalls of this magical place.
Day 5
Medellín – City of Eternal Spring
Start your day with a hike to Mirador to take in mountain vistas before flying to Medellín. Set among the green hills of Colombia’s Antioquia region, Medellín lives up to its nickname: the City of Eternal Spring. After some difficult years, it has blossomed into a shining example of social transformation and urban regeneration. Tonight’s dinner is a complete sensory experience, spanning several le
Day 6
Medellín – A City's Renewal
Explore Medellín’s parks, museums and cultural treasures, and then visit the Comuna 13 neighborhood to learn about a variety of social and urban regeneration projects, which, over the years, helped transform the neighborhood from one of the most dangerous in the world to an example of positive social transformation. Meet over coffee with a local who shares his intimate perspective on those dramati
Day 7
Marinilla – Design Your Day
This morning, choose from of one of these Design Your Day activities.
Day 8
Cartagena – Rum and Chocolate Tasting
Exuberant, colorful, tropical and beautiful, Cartagena is widely regarded as Colombia's crowning destination. Here, sample two of Colombia's most prized exports, aged rums and fine chocolates. The evening is yours to relax or explore as you like.
Day 9
Cartagena – Amazing Architecture and a Sunset Cruise
Visit Cartagena’s colonial walled city and walk its picturesque streets and plazas. Not to be missed are the imposing Castle San Felipe Barajas, a masterpiece of Spanish colonial military engineering built to defend the city from pirate attacks, and the imposing church of San Pedro Claver with its fine collection of stained-glass windows. Then, stroll the colorful streets of the lively Getsemani n
Day 10
Depart Cartagena
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