Colombia is a country of dizzying variety. This tour will introduce you to the fascinating blend of adventures offered within Colombia’s borders. You’ll see some of Colombia’s most important cites, such as bustling Bogotá, the enchanting city of Cartagena, the colonial Popayan and quaint Medellin. You will be introduced to the unique landscapes and colours of the the Colombian Caribbean and the Coffee Region, home to Colombia’s national tree, the wax palm. You can learn how Colombian coffee is made, from picking the very first beans to pouring the perfect cup. You will wander the desolate beaches of Tayrona National Park, where palm trees sway in the breeze and turquoise waters lap the golden Caribbean shores. All this and much, much more on your trip to Colombia with See Colombia Travel.
Day 1 - December 24. Bogota
Upon arrival one of See Colombia Travel´s representatives will be on hand to transfer you to your chosen hotel where you can relax and prepare for your upcoming adventure with us.
Day 2 - December 25. Bogota. Free day - Hop on -off bus
This tour allows you to discover the colorful history and culture of la Candelaria neighborhood, located in the historic center of Bogota and various other highlights throught the city such as the Botanical Gardens, Parque 93 and Parque Central . As part of the tour you will have the option to enjoy La Candelaria on foot passing by the Plaza del Chorro, the Botero museum, the National Museum, Plaza Bolivar and many other interest sites. It is very flexible and you’ll have 24 hour to decide where to go (Monserrate entrance not included but discounted). Meals: B.
Day 3 - December 26. Zipaquira. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira
Today you will visit the salt mines of Zipaquira, from where the monumental Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira was excavated. This unique structure is almost 400ft deep and it occupies an area of around 8000m², with four sections, each one 300ft long and 42ft wide. It presents 12, 30ft high impressive salt columns that support the structure. In the first tract of the underground journey, you will find the XIV Stations of the Via Cruxis, each designed by a local artist. Subsequently, a 175 meter long ramp descending to the last 13 meters towards the balconies on the cameras and the church choir. The final tract leads to the center of the Cathedral where we find the three monumental cameras and the 16m tall cross. Return to Bogota. Meals: B.
Day 4 - December 27. Bogota - Armenia
Transfer to the bus terminal/airport for your journey across Colombia. Upon arrival in Armenia, you will transfer to your specially chosen finca where you can relax for your upcoming adventures. During your time at the Coffee Triangle you’ll stay in a traditional coffee farm (finca) which features colourful, traditional balconies, mud ceiling tiles and a fresh cup coffee (tinto) always available. Meals: B.
Day 5 - December 28. Cocora Valley
At the prearranged time the expedition begins, heading to Salento and the Cocora Valley. It holds within it a colonial and historic past, as you will see as you walk amongst the unique landscapes, observing the flowing clear water of the Quindio River, and the unique palm of wax the national tree.
Salento and in general the Coffee Triangle, has one of the richest coffee cultures and most scenic coffee crops. It has preserved its colonial architecture and the customs of the local country people. Furthermore, it’s an ideal site for hiking or horseback rides followed by a meal of exquisite trout, the prized local dish. As an optional activity, we’ll take you to Santa Rosa, home of the famous hot-springs for a relaxing end of day. Meals: B.
Day 6 - December 29. Armenia. Free Day
Free day to enjoy the area. Take a walk in one of the many coffee fields in the region, relaxing in the sun surrounded by stunning views. Take some sun as you relax by the pool in a hammock, looking over the rolling fields of the coffee region. Meals: B.
Day 7 - December 30. Armenia - Cartagena
At the chosen time transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Upon arrival in Cartagena one of See Colombia Travel´s representatives will be on hand to transfer you to your chosen hotel. Meals: B.
Day 8 - December 31. Cartagena. Free day - City Tour (Optional - not included)
We take approximately four hours visiting the city, including the modern residential neighborhood of Bocagrande and, later, the Walled City. The Old City maintains all the charm of the colonial days, with its narrow, cobbled streets flanked by charming balconies and heavy, characteristic doors. Our entry is through the Clock Gate, the main entrance to the old town. We visit the church of San Pedro Claver, the oldest church in the city before seeing the Castle of San Felipe – an imposing stone structure regarded as the masterpiece of the Spanish military engineering in the Americas. Finally, the Convent of La Popa is a cloister built on top of a hill that dominates the entire urban complex. Your afternoon is free to enjoy the city. Meals: B.
Day 9 - January 1. Cartagena. Day on the islands
Located on the Rosario Islands about 1 hour from Cartagena, Cocoliso is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. This is the perfect place to enjoy the beach and tropical Caribbean climate, and a great opportunity to taste the local cuisine, mostly consisting of fish and rice flavored with coconut. This boat journey takes you to discover this paradise, far from the bustling city, crossing the bay and docking at the coast of Cocoliso. Meals: B.
Day 10 & 11 - January 2 & 3. Cartagena - Mompox
At the chosen time you will be transferred to the magical town of Mompox (about 6hrs). Next day, enjoy a free day to discover this unique hidden gem of Colombia. Meals: B.
Day 12 - January 4. Mompox - Cartagena
After breakfast, land transfer to Cartagena (about 6hrs) where you will spend one last night in Colombia. Meals: B.
Day 13 - January 5. Cartagena - Home
At your chosen time transfer to the airport for your flight back home. All good things must come to an end, after all. Of course, if 13 days just isn´t enough time in Colombia, our tours are 100% customizable and we´d be happy to extend your stay with us. Just ask for more details. Meals: B.