Day 1. 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. Bogota. City Tour
This tour will take you to the heart of Bogota in 3 to 5 hours and is fully adjustable to suit all weather conditions and preferences. It begins with a visit to the Church of El Carmen. Our next destination will be the Nariño Palace, home to Colombia’s President, followed by a visit to Plaza Bolivar, where we will see the National Capitol building, the courthouse, Primada Cathedral, Chapel del Sagrario and the Archbishop’s Palace. Before ending the tour with a visit to the beautiful La Candelaria church, you will have the opportunity to admire the 18th Century facade of the Military Museum.
Day 3. Bogota – Zipaquira – Guatavita. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and El Dorado’s Sacred Lake
From Bogota we will take you the salt mines of Zipaquira, from where the monumental cathedral was excavated. This unique structure is almost 120m deep and occupies an area of around 8000m², with four sections, each one 100m long and 13m wide.
After visiting the salt mines, we’ll continue to the Lake of Guatavita, where the legend of El Dorado originates. According to the legend, in pre-Columbian times 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.
Day 4. Bogota – Armenia
Transfer to airport/bus terminal for your journey across Colombia. Upon arrival in Armenia, you will be transferred to your specially chosen finca where you can relax in beautiful surroundings for your upcoming adventures.
Day 5. Armenia – Cocora Valley
The expedition begins with the unique and charming town of Salento and the other-worldly Cocora Valley. You will get to know the region’s colonial and historic past and have the opportunity to wander amongst the unique landscapes, observing the clear water of the Quindio River and the unique and awe-inspiring wax palm, Colombia’s national tree.
Salento, and the Coffee Triangle in general, has one of the richest coffee cultures and most scenic coffee crops. It has preserved its colonial architecture and the customs of the local people. Furthermore, it’s an ideal site for hiking or horseback rides followed by a meal of exquisite trout, the prized local dish. Today’s lunch is included at a traditional local restaurant.
Day 6. Armenia – Cartagena
Transfer to airport/bus terminal. Upon arrival in beautiful Cartagena, transfer to your specially chosen hotel to prepare for your tour of this wonderful city.
Day 7. Cartagena City Tour
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 city. Following this we will see the oldest church in the city, San Pedro Claver. Whilst in the famous Old City, we will visit Plaza Bolivar, Bobedas and the Bocagrande neighbourhood. 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 Cartagena’s famous mall, Pierino Gallo, for some shopping. Your afternoon will be free to enjoy the city at your leisure.
Day 8. Cartagena
At the chosen time you will be transferred to the airport. All good things must come to an end, after all. 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.