Bogotá’s revival has propelled the city rapidly into becoming one of the most exciting cities in South America. It now stands toe to toe with cities such as Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro in terms of its museums, gastronomy, fashion and nightlife. From the bohemian La Candelaria area of Bogotá that brims with arty museums, cafes, shops and restaurants to the more wealthy regions of the north that boast fine dining, high-end fashion and many English-inspired pubs, Bogotá can seem like many disparate towns all merged into one fascinating city. On our Bogotá short break you’ll also have the opportunity to visit nearby attractions such as Zipaquira Salt Cathedral and El Dorado Lake. Even as you become accustomed to the city’s altitude, Bogotá continues to take your breath away.
Day 1 - November 21. Bogota
Upon arrival one of See Colombia Travel´s representatives will be on hand to transfer you to your chosen hostel where you can relax and prepare for your upcoming adventure with us.
Day 2 - November 22. Bogota - City Tour
This four-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. Afterwards as optionals, you could go to the Gold Museum (optional – closed on Mondays), 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, take a cable car to visit Monserrate for a fantastic view of the city (not included). Meals: B.
Day 3 - November 23. Bogota – Zipaquira. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira
Departure towards Zipaquirá to visit to the salt mines from where the monumental Cathedral 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.
Day 4 - November 24. Bogota - Cartagena
At the chosen time transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Cartagena. Meals: B.
