Exceptional Colombia

Escape to a land of colonial gems, towering Andean mountains, steamy tropical jungles, lush coffee plantations, and the sparkling Caribbean coast. Colombia truly is Latin America’s rising star.

1. Fly to Bogota

2. Days 1-3: Bogota

   Begin your trip in Colombia’s lively capital, Bogota, a cosmopolitan hub buzzing with trendy bars and restaurants. We’ve included a private tour that takes in the best of the city, including the old town of La Candelaria with its quaint, cobbled streets, the fabulous Gold Museum and a trip up the mountain Monserrate, affording panoramic views across this fascinating, sprawling city to the sierras beyond. To show you a different side of the city, a local art expert will accompany you as you go art gallery hopping! Visit some of the city's top galleries featuring classical Colombian pieces to gain a deeper understanding of Colombia's past and present day.

   Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota (2 nights)

3. Days 3-5: Villa de Leyva

   From Bogota head northwards towards Zipaquira, travelling across the central region of the savannah, home to Colombia’s famous flower cultivation. On the way you will stop off to visit to the impressive Salt Cathedral, an underground Church built in the tunnels of old salt mines 300 metres inside a salt mountain above the town - a magnificent feat of engineering. Arrive to the charming small colonial town of Villa de Leyva, where you’ll spend two nights. Spend time walking along the narrow streets lined by red-tile-roofed, whitewashed houses, many featuring balconies decorated with flower pots overflowing with brightly coloured bougainvillea and geraniums. The pace of life is very laid back here.

   Accommodation: Casa Terra (2 nights)

4. Days 5-8: Coffee Triangle

   Fly to Armenia and your next stop, Colombia’s lush and verdant coffee zone – an absolute must for coffee lovers, yet everyone will appreciate the tranquil vibes and sweeping views across rolling hills. Here we’ve included a fascinating and informative tour of a working coffee plantation, where you’ll learn all about the coffee making process and a trip to the beautiful Cocora Valley, where the landscape, scattered with impossibly tall wax palms, is completely unique. You'll also visit the quaint colonial town of Salento, where you'll also have the chance to try your hand at the traditional game of Tejo. Your stay in the coffee region is at the charming Hotel Bambusa, where breakfast and dinner are included.

   Accommodation: Hacienda Bambusa (3 nights)

5. Days 8-12: Cartagena Historic City

   Finally, fly to Cartagena, where you'll soak up the history and the sunshine in the jewel of the Caribbean and one of Latin America must-see destinations. Founded in 1533, this historic town is extremely well preserved, and wandering through its colourful streets is like taking a step back in time. Explore the city with an expert guide who will provide a fantastic introduction to this colourful city and its equally vibrant past. We've included one for the foodies here too: you'll be met at your hotel and taken to Cartagena's Bazurto Market, trying exotic foods and local fruits along the way. This is a traditional - and loud! - market so brace yourselves for a truly authentic experience and glimpse into Colombian life. After visiting the market, you'll meet with a local chef who will teach you how to make some of Cartagena's most typical dishes such as ceviche, seafood soup in coconut milk and white wine, plantain chips and a few other Carribbean secrets. On one of your free days, we suggest a trip out on a private speedboat to cruise the Rosario Islands, snorkel with tropical fish and enjoy a beach-side picnic lunch.

   Accommodation: Casa San Agustin (4 nights)

6. Fly home

   After a delicious breakfast, transfer to Cartagena airport to begin your journey home.

Bogota, Villa de Leyva, Pereira, Cartagena