Description
This exciting and varied itinerary begins in Colombia’s lively capital city, Bogota, surrounded by the majestic Andes. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of La Candelaria district, home to the impressive Gold Museum which houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian art in the world. You can also find excellent bars, boutiques, theatres and restaurants. Perhaps also visit the magnificent Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, 25km from Bogota, situated an astonishing 50 metres underground.
From Bogota, you will continue north to the jewel in Colombia’s crown, Cartagena, a stunning tropical colonial city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Cartagena is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the Americas and was once the gateway to the Spanish empire in the New World. The old walled quarter has shady plazas, delightful restaurants, old convents, lovely churches and ruined forts, which hark back to the era of pirates and corsairs. A boat trip can be taken to explore the nearby islands, such as the Islas del Rosario, surrounded by coral reefs.
In Cartagena, you will stay in the beautiful La Passion, a restored colonial house in the heart of the old walled city. The hotel has a rooftop swimming pool offering unrivalled views of the terracotta tiled roofs and the Caribbean beyond.
After exploring Cartagena, fly on to Panama, one of the most up-and-coming destinations in Latin America. After enjoying the superb food and music scenes of this vibrant city, staying in the Old City, fly to the coral atolls of the San Blas Islands. Coral Lodge is in a pristine setting, surrounded by golden beaches, tropical rainforest, turquoise waters and coral gardens. Activities include mangrove and river kayaking, jungle hikes, sport fishing,moonlit strolls, horse riding along deserted beaches and scuba diving.
The end to this fascinating trip is a lovely eco lodge on a small island lake in Nicaragua, a perfect place to relax, drink in the serene views or explore the undiscovered colonial charms of Granada in the shadow of fiery Mombacho volcano and the stunning blue waters of Lake Nicaragua.
Guide price
£3,380
per person
£3,380 Per person based on two people sharing for 16 nights including all flights, transfers and accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (full board at Coral Lodge and Jicaro Lodge).
Itinerary
When to travel
Temperatures are very warm and do not vary considerably in Colombia, Panama & Nicaragua throughout the year, though cooler at high altitude (Bogota enjoys a spring-like climate with mild days and crisp nights). Colombia is a year-round destination and their drier season is from December to March. The best time to visit the tropical lowland and coastal areas of Panama and Nicaragua is from November to May, with the busiest time being from December to March. The rainy season lasts May to November.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Colombia, Panama & Nicaragua
How to get there
14hr international flight to Bogota and short car transfer.
