Experience Colombia

For details on availability, departure dates and additional tour information, contact 01943 605999 or info@simplygroups.co.uk 

 

Day 1: Bogotá, Colombia- The allure of a red-hot culture steeped in history, art, and tradition sweeps across stunning Caribbean landscapes drawing you to Colombia – South America’s Andean oasis. In the cradle of the Andean peaks, discover a Technicolor amalgam of culture, history, and romance in Bogotá – Colombia’s elevated capital city.

Day 2: Bogotá- Colombia’s heart beats in Bogotá. Discover why on a walking tour along the calles, the plazas, past painted brick and around emerald parks. Get lost in a mélange of colour and spice with a visit to Paloquemao Market. In here it’s a sensory feast – a happy overload of exotic fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, herbs, and flowers. Embark on a tasting journey through the market’s rainbow displays while your guide dishes out some favourite samples. All that glitters is indeed gold at the Museo del Oro, where 55,000 pieces of gold from pre-Hispanic cultures are exhibited across the rooms. Tonight, Colombian fare and friendship are on the menu for a welcome dinner at one of Bogotá’s local restaurants.

Day 3: Bogotá- Coffee Region Fly over mystical valleys and rolling jade hills, over terracotta-roofed farm houses, spindly wax palm trees and verdant coffee plantations. In this section of Colombia’s coffee zone, learn about the coffee-making process and sample the perks of the region, bean to cup. Retreat tonight to your lodge overlooking the incredible countryside, an oasis in and of itself.

Day 4: Coffee Region - Cocora Valley- At the foot of the Andes, under clouds that swim between vivid green mountains and towering wax palms, experience the majesty of the Cocora Valley aboard equipped 4x4 jeeps known as “Willys.” Then, it’s your choice! Set out to hike the valley and look up at the slender poles of wax palms -OR- travel on horseback* to see the valley through the eyes of a Colombian farmer. In the magical surround of the Andes, enjoy a locally-sourced picnic** lunch before hitting the road to colourful Salento. In this small town, along quaint streets and paisa architecture, encounter local artisans and their unique crafts as you explore independently.

Day 5: Coffee Region – Medellín- Marvel at the natural wonders of the vast Aburra Valley on a scenic drive to Medellín, the “City of Eternal Spring.” Dine with the locals and indulge in a specially cultivated tasting menu that highlights traditional ingredients with modern flare.

Day 6: Medellín- Medellín is a cosmopolitan hub deeply rooted in tradition, yet decidedly modern. In Comuna 13, a walking tour of this neighbourhood that clings to the mountainside is a journey that looks into Colombia’s past with a focus on the future. Walk wide-eyed with a neighbourhood resident and curiously pass the chromatic murals and stunning graffiti art.

Day 7: Medellín – Cartagena -Spend this morning in the village of Santa Elena, nestled inside the Andes Mountains. The pastoral idyll of this traditional flower farm enchants upon the very moment of approach. Lush arrangements that serve as Medellín’s cultural symbol are painstakingly crafted here for the Feria de Flores, Colombia’s national flower festival. Meet with a true silletero and learn of the rich tradition and history of flower farming in Medellín as you discover first-hand what a “day in the life” of a flower farmer is like. Afterward, board a flight across a short strait to the tropical port city of Cartagena.

Day 8: Cartagena - Today, see the city’s colourful streets. In Bolivar Plaza, downtown’s historic nucleus, see traditional musicians and dancers perform and women in dresses the colours of the Colombian flag selling fruit from the tops of turbaned heads. Enjoy the rest of the day on your own and dive head-first into the local culture.

Day 9: Cartagena- Today, take in more of Cartagena’s special energy independently. Stroll the city, explore the iconic fortress of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, or just have a seat at the bar, order a mojito, some ceviche, and do some serious people-watching. Perhaps you’ll choose to take a day trip to the unspoiled Rosario Islands. This evening we toast to the end of a fantastic journey in Colombia.

Day 10: Cartagena - Tour Ends

 

All Long Haul destination tours are operated by The Big Journey Company a member of The Travel Trust Association member number U5675 and ATOL number T7282.Financial Protection: The flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please request this and check to ensure that everything you have booked (flights, hotels and other services) are detailed. Please see The Big Journey Company  booking conditions for further information or go to WWW.ATOL.ORG.UK for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate.