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 cities, such as bustling Bogotá, the enchanting city of Cartagena 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. All this and much, much more on your trip to Colombia with See Colombia Travel.
Day 1 - July 18. 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 - July 19. Bogota - Free Day. Bike tour (not included)
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. After completing your tour of the city on two wheels, you will climb with your two feet up to a beautiful viewpoint of the city – Monserrate.
Day 3 & 4 - July 20 & 21. Free days. Zipaquira. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and 'El Dorado' Sacred Lake of Gutavita (optional - not included)
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.
Next day, 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. Return to Bogota. Meals: B.
Day 5 - July 22. Bogota – Armenia
Transfer to airport/bus terminal for your journey to the Coffee Triangle. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your specially chosen finca where you can relax in a unique way for your upcoming adventures. Meals: B.
Day 6 - July 23. 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 (included) rides followed by a meal of exquisite trout, the prized local dish. Todays lunch is included at a traditional local restaurant. Meals: B.
Day 7 - July 24. White Water Rafting - Barragan River
Today you’ll have the chance to raft down Barragan River. You’ll be picked up from your Finca and driven to Rancho California where you’ll be briefed about the details of this activity and provided with all required equipment. From there we will head to our departure point for our upcoming adventure of 8.5 ks of unique flora and fauna down the Barragan River.
Day 8 - July 25. Canopy Tour
Located in Montenegro in the Quindió department, this canopy tour includes 16 viewing platforms with 10 zip lines over coffee farms, bamboo fields, and small streams with more than 1,900 meters of excitement. You’ll be rushing between trees in a lush nature reserve where you can encounter squirrels, sloths, and various species of birds. Your canopy tour includes a Spanish-speaking guide, transfer to and from the Los Caracolíes Canopy, and 10 zip lines.
Day 9 - July 26. Armenia - Santa Marta
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Santa Marta. 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 coastal adventures with us. Meals: B.
Day 10 to 13 - July 27 to 30. Palomino Beach - Tayrona
You will spend your first whole day in on of the many beaches at the Tayrona National Park (entrance fee included).
For your free time at the Eco-Hotel you have option to relax in a hammock with a book, visit the Valencia River, Barragan River, visit a loca Kogi comunity, relax at the beach, or indulge in one of their many spa treatments (including chocotherapy!). Meals: B, L and D.
Day 14 - July 31. Palomino - Santa Marta - Cartagena
At the chosen time transfer to from Palomino where the jungle meets the Caribbean to Cartagena (aprox. 6 hours) and your chosen hotel. Meals: B.
Day 15 - August 1. Cartagena. Segway City Tour
Take an exciting look at this historical city from your own personal segway. You’ll have the chance to scoot around visiting the many beautiful sites of this colourful colonial city such as the gold museum, Las Bovedas, PLaza de la Proclamacion, the Cartagena cathedral and many more (entrances not included). Your afternoon is free to enjoy the city. Meals: B (only if staying at hotels).
Day 16 - August 2. Cartagena. Free Day - La Virgen Mangrove (optional - not included)
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 pre-columbian 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.
Cartagena - Mud Volcano (optional - not included)
On the way to Volcano Totumo we’ll pass through several traditional villages, where you’ll receive information from your tour guides about the local history. Once you arrive at the volcano you’ll have the opportunity to bathe and relax in the fantastic mud baths before getting rinsed off with fresh water. You’ll take home some great pictures!
Day 17 - August 3. Cartagena - Home.
At the chosen time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to home. All good things must come to an end, after all. Of course, if 17 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.