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, modern Medellin and the enchanting city of Cartagena All this and much, much more on your trip to Colombia with See Colombia Travel.
Day 1 - October 4. 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 - October 5. Bogota - City Tour
This is a six-hour excursion that visits the colonial area of La Candelaria, the historical center of the city. It is in the oldest part of the capital, where you’ll find museums, restaurants and cultural institutions. Afterwards we visit the Bolívar Square at the heart of the city and surrounded by buildings of various styles and from various periods, such as the Cathedral, the Chapel of El Sagrario, the Cardinal’s Palace and the Capitolio or Congress Building. Behind the latter is the Nariño Palace, home of the president. We continue to the Quinta de Bolívar. Once a colonial mansion of great architectural value, it is now converted into a museum that houses documents and objects that belonged to Simón Bolívar. We then visit the Botero and Gold Museum, where we will find a collection of more than 36,000 pieces of pre-Columbian manufacture; being the only display of its kind in the world. Finally, we will take a cable car to visit Monserrate for a fantastic view of the city. Meals: B.
Day 3 - October 6. Bogota - Zipaquira - Guatavita. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and 'El Dorado' Sacred Lake of Guatavita
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.
Guatavita. 'El Dorado' Sacred Lake of Guatavita
We’ll continue to the Lake of Guatavita, where the legend of El Dorado originates. According to this legend, in the pre-Columbian days the Indians held special religious ceremonies in which the Chief (Cacique), with his body totally covered with gold dust, was submerged in the lake as an offering to their gods, while the natives threw precious stones and gold pieces into the lake. In 1967 the area, including the old village, was flooded, forcing the construction of a new town in a style that resembles the old Spanish colonial architecture. Return to Bogota. Meals: B.
Day 4 - October 7. Bogota - Medellin
At the chosen time transfer to the airport for your flight to Medellin. Upon arrival one of See Colombia Travel´s representatives will be on hand to transfer you to your chosen hotel. Just before arriving to Medellin, we´ll visit some of the most traditional towns near Medellin such as Rionegro and el Retiro. Time permitting you will also get to see the beautiful Tenquendamita and Guatape. Meals: B.
Day 5 - October 8. Medellin. City Tour
A 5 hour trip, that uncovers the roots of Medellín and its most iconic symbols, such as the “Pueblito Paisa”, the Intelligent Building, the Plaza Mayor, the Administrative Center of La Alpujarra and Carabobo street. We will travel in the “Metro Cable”, a massive transportation system unique to the city, and visit of the España Library Park and its distinctive architectural structure. We´ll also have the chance to visit the infamos Comuna 13 and its new scalators. Meals: B.
Day 6 - October 9. Jardin Tour
This morning we´ll visit Jardín, a picturesque town set amongst green mountains, coffee farms, and beautiful waterfalls. The tour will take us through the town of Jardin, where we will enjoy its unique Church and colorful main plaza. After lunch, you´ll have the unique opportunity to see a forwking coffee farm. Return to Medellin. Meals: B,L.
Day 7 & 8 - October 10 & 11 . Medellin. Jardin Botanico and Free Day
Today we´ll visit the beautiful Botanical Garden of Medellin. Enjoy a refreshing breeze from the andes whilst learning about the local plants and trees. Enjoy time for lunch before returning to the hotel to get ready fr tonight´s celebration. Tomorrow is a free day to recuperate from the party and to enjoy the city. Go shopping in Medellin’s famous shopping centres, or wander Medellin’s streets to enjoy the beautiful weather. For the adventurous, you can head out of the city to one of the many natural attractions such as Guatape, where you’ll find stunning views of the surrounding lakes. Meals: B.
Day 9 - October 12. Medellin - Home
At the chosen time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home.
Of course, if 8 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.