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 Villa de Leyva and quaint Manizales. 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. Bogota
Upon arrival one of See Colombia Travel´s representatives will be on hand to transfer you to your chosen hotel where you can prepare for your upcoming adventure with us.
Day 2. Bogota - Villa de Leyva
Make your way to Bogota´s bus terminal. Upon arrival in Villa de Leyva, one of our representative will take you to your chosen hotel (transfer out of Bogota and bus fare not included).
Day 3. Villa de Leyva. Free day - Half day city tour (optional - not included)
The visit begins through the Ricaurte Square, also known as San Agustin Square and continues to the house of Antonio Nariño, who was a journalist, politician, and militant. He played an important role in the independence of the country. The visit continues through the Main Square. Covering over 14000m², it is the biggest square in Colombia. There you will see the notorious Cathedral, and the facade of what used to be the house of Luis Alberto Acuña, a painter, sculptor, and Colombian historian who transformed it into a museum. The tour ends with a visit to the church of El Carmen and its surrounding park. Rest of the day is free to get lost in any of Villa de Leyva’s enchanted cobble stone streets or to join any of the optional activities available.
Day 4. Villa de Leyva - Bogota
Make your way to the bus terminal for your journey back to Bogota (transfers not included).
Day 5. Bogota - BikeTour
This tour allows you to discover the colorful history and culture of la Candelaria neighborhood, located in the historic center of Bogota. The tour is adjustable to suit various weather conditions and preferences. It enables you to visit the city in a more fun way, allowing a closer interaction between the visitor and Bogota. The tour starts at 10:30am and lasts for 3 to 5 hours, passing by the Plaza del Chorro, the Botero museum, the National Museum, Plaza Bolivar, local market plaza, central cemetery, Egipto Neighborhood, the Colombian National University, the Gabriel Garcia Marquez cultural center, the Bullfighting Stadium, when available, and many other interest sites. It is very flexible, so if you have suggestions feel free to mention them to the guide.
Day 6. Zipaquira. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira
Today we 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.
Day 7. Bogota – Armenia
Make your way to the airport or bus terminal for your journey across Colombia (transfer out not included). Upon arrival in Armenia, transfer to your chosen finca where you can relax in a unique way for your upcoming adventures (transfer in included).
Day 8. 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.
Day 9. Coffee Experience and Tasting
Hacienda Venecia, located just outside of Manizales, is a coffee farm at 1,500 meters above sea level, with volcanic soil from the Central Andean mountain range, and is considered one of the best areas for coffee harvest in the country. A Spanish speaking guide will take you on a tour on the “top of peace”, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the coffee region.
Armenia - Medellin
At the chosen time make your way to the bus terminal for your journey to Medellin (abut 5 hours).
Day 10, 11 & 12. Medellin. Free Days
As optional activities visit Santa Fe de Antioquia municipality, declared Humanity´s Heritage; Guatape; Jardin or just relax in the city of the “Eternal Spring”.
Day 13. Medellin - Santa Marta - Tayrona
At the chosen time make your way to the airport and the Tayrona National Park.
Day 14 . Tayrona National Park
During your stay you will have the option to walk through Tayrona National Park’s most unforgettable beaches and unmissable sites. Tayrona National Park is where the Colombian jungle meets the Caribbean, and is a great place for nature-lovers and beach-lovers alike. Important archaeological sites and beaches we’ll see include: Calabazo, Pueblito, Cape San Juan, La Piscina (natural swimming pool), Arrecifes and Cañaveral.
Day 15. Tayrona - Santa Marta - Cartagena
After breakfast, make your way to Cartagena (about 6 hours) where you will spend the night.
Day 16, 17 & 18. Cartagena. Free Days
Free days to enjoy the city; to get lost in one of the many plazas and coble stone streets and have a drink watching the sunset on top of the city wall.
Day 19. Cartagena - Bogota - Home
End of our services. Of course, if 18 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.