Your personalised See Colombia tour takes you to some of Colombia’s highlights – the dynamic cultural haven of Bogota and Zipaquira, home to salt mines and the stunning Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira; the breathtaking Coffee Triangle; the laid-back, enchanting Cartagena (named a UNESCO World Heritage site); Leaving Bogota, you will have the opportunity to see Colombia’s famous Coffee Triangle, where the scenery is every bit as good as the coffee and, together, form an unforgettable experience. And if relaxing with a coffee in the charming main square gets too much for you, the following destination is Cartagena, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia, where you can relax and rejuvenate yourself. All this and much more only with See Colombia Travel.
Day 1 - February 23. 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 - February 24. 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. Afterwards we will go to the 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 - February 25. Bogota - Pereria
At the prearrange time transfer to Bogota’s airport for your flight to Pereria. Upon arrival to Pereria, 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. During your time at the Coffee Triangle you’ll see traditional coffee farm (finca) which features colourful, traditional balconies, mud ceiling tiles and a fresh cup coffee (tinto) always available. Meals: B.
Day 4 - February 26. Finca – Cocora Valley
At a 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 waters of the Quindio River, and the impressive plantations of wax palm- 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. Meals: B.
Day 5 - February 27. Coffee Experience and Tasting
During the Cultural Coffee Experience tour 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!. After lunch land transfer to Medellin through the colourful Autopista del Cafe (Coffee motorway). Meals: B.
Day 6 - February 28. Medellin. City Tour & Pablo Escobar is History
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.
The tour continuous and gives you plenty of information about Pablo Escobar and his legacy, but contrasting the city today with the information you’re given it becomes increasingly clear that Pablo Escobar is well and truly history. You will be taken through the streets of Medellín to the house in which Escobar was hiding shortly before he died, on the roof of the very same building. You’ll be told more information about his life and death and, circumstances permitting, you can go inside to see for yourself how he attempted to escape before the police caught him. The tour ends at Escobar’s final resting place, a cemetery on the outskirts of Medellín. It’s here you can learn more about the complicated legacy the man left behind, as the special grave will suggest. Return to your hotel. Meals: B.
Day 7 - March 1. Medellin. Free Day
Free day 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 8 - March 2. Medellin - Cartagena
At the chosen time transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival in Cartagena transfer to your chosen hotel where you can have dinner, relax and prepare for the rest of your adventure. Meals: B.
Day 9 - March 3. Cartagena. City Tour (optional-not included)
Our Cartagena City Tour will take approximately four hours. We begin the tour with a visit to Cerro de la Popa, a cloister built on top of a hill that dominates the entire urban complex. Following this we will see the oldest church in the city, San Pedro Claver. Finding ourselves in the famous Old City, we will visit Plaza Bolivar, Bobedas and the Bocagrande Panoramic. The Old City retains all the charm of the colonial days, its narrow, cobbled streets flanked by charming balconies and traditional wooden doors. We will finish in the commercial centre of Cartagena, Pierino Gallo, for some shopping. Your afternoon will be free to enjoy the city at your leisure. Includes entrances to La Popa Monastery, San Pedro Claver Church and San Felipe Fort. Meals: B.
Day 10 - March 4. Cartagena. Day on the islands
This is the perfect place to enjoy the beach and tropical Caribbean climate, and a great opportunity to taste the local cuisine, mostly consisting of fish and rice flavored with coconut. This boat journey takes you to discover this paradise, far from the bustling city, crossing the bay and docking at the coast of Majagua. Meals: B, L.
Day 11 - March 5. Cartagena. Free Day
Free day to enjoy the city. Get lost in the many plazas, wander through the cobble stone streets and be enchanted by Cartagena’s rich architecture and overwhelming history. As the sunsets, have a drink on top of the old wall watching the sun go down on the Caribbean. Meals: B.
Day 12 - March 6. Cartagena - Home
At the chosen time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bogota and back home.
Of course, if 12 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.