Departure towards Villa de Leyva. On the way 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.
After visiting the salt mines, as an optional activity, 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. We continue on our way to Villa De Leyva.

The perfect day to visit the Iguaque natural reserve or to visit the Ricaurte Square, also known as San Agustin Square continuing to the house of Antonio Nariño, who was a journalist, politician, and militant. 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. Get lost in any of Villa de Leyva’s enchanted cobble stone streets or to join any of the optional activities available. Meals: B.

After breakfast, we will star heading north on our way to San Gil and Barichara. Meals: B.

Today you´ll be taken for a hike through the Camino Real between Barichara and Guane. This road that dates back to the time of the Guane – local indigenous people – was rebuilt by the German George von Lenguerke in 1864. This 9.5 k coble stone path once used as the only road between Giron and the Magdalena River is now an historical hidden secret full of magic and amazing scenery. At the chosen time return to the hotel. Meals: B.

At the chosen time, we keep heading north towards Bucaramanga. On the way we´ll stop at Panachi Park where you´ll have a unique option of seeing the breathtaking Chicamocha Valley from the top of the Andes. Upon arrival transfer to Bucaramanga´s airport for your flight to Santa Marta, once there transfer to your chosen hotel. Meals: B. 

At the chosen time enjoy a four hour panoramic tour of Santa Marta where you´ll visit the beautiful Rodadero Bay, Taganga lookout, Customs House and the breathtaking Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino founded in 1608 where Simon Bolivar spend his last few days. Meals: B.

After breakfast, land transfer from Santa Marta to Tayrona National Park (about 1 hour) where you will spend the night.

During the next two days you 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.

At the chosen time you will be transferred to Cartagena (approx 6hrs). Meals: B.

 After arrival you can take the Hop On, Hop Off bus around Cartagena, visiting the city, including the modern residential neighborhood of Bocagrande and 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. You will visit the Clock Gate, the main entrance to the old town. A walking tour of the Walled City is included and begins at 9:45am. Later you can 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 tickets for the bus are valid all day long, so you can see the city at your leisure. Meals: B.

You’ll be transferred to La Boquilla where you’ll pass through the stunning mangroves in the area on a traditional canoe, seeing nature close up as you pass slowly. Once you arrive, you’ll visit the fascinating Precolumbian Archeological Park. After you’ve wandered around, you’ll enjoy a delicious typical lunch on the beach in Manzanillo del Mar, before heading back to Cartagena by land. Meals: B.

At the chosen land transfer to the airport for your flight to Armenia. Upon arrival transfer to your chosen hotel. Meals: B.

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. Todays lunch is included at a traditional local restaurant. As an optional activity, we’ll take you to Santa Rosa, home of the famous hotsprings for a relaxing end of day. Meals: B.

The Recorrido de la Cultura Cafetera (Cultural Coffee Experience tour), where you will gain a unique insight into the real lives of the coffee workers. This tour allows us to learn the fantastic and mystical history of the coffee growing culture and the colonization of Antioquia.  From the coffee corps we will continue to the Joyful Harvest, where you can wear traditional outfits and harvest, pulp, dry, roast and ground your own coffee as the locals have done since colonial times. Then, after a great day at work you can sit down and enjoy a fantastic cup of the best Colombia Coffee, specially processed and made by you, for you! Meals: B.

At the chosen time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bogota and back home.

Of course, if 15 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.