Bogota, Risaralda Coffee Region & Cartagena — Coastlines of Distinction

Bogota

Airport with Meet & Greet - Private

To ensure your comfort, an English-speaking guide will be waiting for you outside of Customs, holding a sign with your name on it. This representative will direct you to your awaiting vehicle and driver, and accompany you to your hotel to assist with check-in.

Accommodation: B.O.G. Hotel (B) (Superior), Bogota

Bogota

1/2 Day Zipaquira & the Salt Cathedral (5 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver

You will be met at your hotel by your guide for your tour of Zipaquira and the Salt Cathedral. It is a journey of about approximately 2 hours to reach Zipaquira. One of the marvels of Colombia, the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is well worth the visit. Travelling north of the city, through countryside once occupied by the native Muisca Indians, Zipaquira is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Colombia. Zipaquira is most famous for its Cathedral carved underground in a still functioning salt mine just west of the town. The subtle lighting pronounces the fourteen Stations of the Cross as you descend in to the mine, each station sculpted by a different artist. At the deepest point of the cathedral, 180m below the earth’s surface, you encounter the nave and the north and south aisles dominated by the 16m high central cross. The illumination and execution of the work is a tribute to modern techniques and years of work from the miners and artists. Your guide will explain all about the cathedrals construction and how it and the mine still function in harmony. Around the central square of the town of Zipaquira the colonial buildings still hold their charm footed by brickwork paving and overlooked by the Cathedral Diocesana de San Antonio. After your tour you will transfer back to Bogota, approximate arrival time will be mid afternoon. Includes private transportation, English guide, entrance to Salt Cathedral.

Accommodation: B.O.G. Hotel (B) (Superior), Bogota

Bogota

Hiking in Chingaza National Park (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Private

Chingaza National Natural Park is a lifeline to Bogota and the surrounding area; 80% of the city’s water comes from the region. This immensely important Paramo (or highland eco-system) is found just an hour's drive north of the city, easily accessible by guests with an interest in active adventures. Today, after meeting your guide and driver in the morning, set out to Chingaza. Upon arrival, set out to explore a few of the all-but-endless trails that are scattered throughout this sprawling park that spans a mind-boggling 76,000 hectares. With glacial lakes and various eco-systems home to a wealth of wildlife including tapirs, spectacled bears, condors and pumas, this is truly a unique reserve. Over 1,000 unique plant species are found in the park, with the strange, furry-leaves frailejón plant being among the rarest. Additionally, the park also holds deep indigenous significance as the ancient Muiscas considered this region sacred and it’s believed many of the lakes were used for religious rituals. After a few hours hiking through Chingaza, return to your awaiting vehicle to begin the trip back to your hotel in Bogota.

Accommodation: B.O.G. Hotel (B) (Superior), Bogota

Bogota, Pereira, Risaralda Coffee Region

Airport Transfer - Private, Air - Bogota - Pereira [45 mins] - Economy, Transfer - Private - Pereira - Risaralda Coffee Region [Pereira Airport] - Vehicle/Guide/Driver, 1/2 Day Cooking Class at Hotel Sazagua (4 hrs)

You will be privately transferred between Bogota's El Dorado International Airport and your hotel by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Approximate travel time is 45 minutes, varying based on the location of your hotel.. Board a flight in Bogota with service to Pereira. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes.. You will be privately transferred from Pereira Airport to Hotel Sazagua in the Risaralda Coffee Region by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.. The chefs of Hotel Sazagua, expertly trained in the culinary arts, are widely regarded to be among the country’s best. This evening, learn traditional family recipes from the resident gastronomic masters at Hotel Sazagua, discovering the tricks and techniques needed to prepare some of Colombia’s most popular dishes. After your hands-on lesson using fresh ingredients grown by local farmers, settle in to dine on your mouth-watering creations in the hotel dining room.

Accommodation: Hotel Boutique Sazagua (B) (Premium Suite), Bogota

Risaralda Coffee Region

Sazagua Hotel at Leisure, 1/2 Day Cooking Class at Hotel Sazagua (4 hrs)

Surrounded by the earthy aroma of native trees and the humming melody of exotic birds in a region declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2011, Sazagua Hotel offers a unique experience that is sure to be remembered. Begin your day with a freshly prepared breakfast paired with delicious, world-renowned coffee. Later, set out on a bucolic walk in and around the property aiming to spot some of the rarest avian creatures found in Colombia. Mountain blue birds, red-ruffed fruitcrow’s, golden-olive woodpeckers, hooded antpitta’s and many other striking winged creatures call this land home, and with feeders scattered across the hotel grounds, only time can tell what you may discover. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, activities such as horseback riding can be arranged with the help of nearby estancia’s, and for those seeking a more relaxed pace, informative and interactive activities including culinary courses or fresh-fruit tastings can also be arranged. Please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.. The chefs of Hotel Sazagua, expertly trained in the culinary arts, are widely regarded to be among the country’s best. This evening, learn traditional family recipes from the resident gastronomic masters at Hotel Sazagua, discovering the tricks and techniques needed to prepare some of Colombia’s most popular dishes. After your hands-on lesson using fresh ingredients grown by local farmers, settle in to dine on your mouth-watering creations in the hotel dining room.

Accommodation: Hotel Boutique Sazagua (B) (Premium Suite), Risaralda Coffee Region

Risaralda Coffee Region

Coffee in Salento & Hiking Valle de Cocora (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide

Departing from your lodge in the coffee region, set off for a day of active discovery in the Valle de Cocora (or Cocora Valley), first stopping in the town of Salento. The main square of this village has not changed in appearance or character for decades, and an energizing coffee break in a village cafe is the ideal start to the day, made better by the striking avenues lined with brightly painted Pueblo homes that serve as a backdrop. Arriving at the entrance to the Valle de Cocora, your guide will lead the way across a foot-bridge, past a trout farm and up a bridle path to arrive at lookout that affords panoramic views of a mountain-fringed vista accented by wax palm trees, a national symbol of Colombia and a protected species. Next, ascend into the cloud forest on trail that requires careful attention; this section of the hike tracks along narrows with slippery turns, over large tree roots and even across rivers, with the vegetation becoming increasingly dense along the way. The rewards are worth the effort, to be sure. Impressive birds are often spotted in this area, and – following more river crossings on basic foot bridges and stepping stones – you’ll arrive at Acaime Reserve where 12 hummingbird species have been observed. Feeders set throughout attract these entrancing creatures, meaning you’re all but certain to see a few species flitting about. After hot coffee and snacks, begin the return journey to the entrance of the reserve, trekking again through challenging conditions to reach the main trail, and soon after, your awaiting vehicle and driver. Please note: This tour requires roughly three hours of hiking, including two through difficult terrain. Suitable hiking footwear and attire is required.

Accommodation: Hotel Boutique Sazagua (B) (Premium Suite), Risaralda Coffee Region

Risaralda Coffee Region, Pereira, Medellin

1/2 Day Colombian Coffee Experience (with Tastings, 4 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide, Transfer - Private - Risaralda Coffee Region - Pereira [Pereira Airport] - Vehicle/Driver/Guide, Air - Pereira - Medellin [via Bogota - 4 hrs] - Economy, Airport Transfer - Private

In more ways than one, coffee is the elixir of life to many remote and mountainous regions of Colombia. With the perfect climate for growing some of the world’s finest beans, coffee has become the lifeblood of the economy, paving the way for economic and social improvement. Today, set out on a private guided tour to visit one of the coffee regions premier farms, Hacienda Venecia. Along the way, travel past rolling, verdant hills carpeted with lush fields of coffee, plantains and yucca, passing campasinos on their way to work and children on their way to school, soon arriving at the hacienda. From seedling to coffee cup and every part in between, here you’ll learn about the holistic approach to cultivation, roasting and brewing championed by the team at Venecia, capping off the experience with a toast before sampling your freshly prepared, truly authentic Colombian brew. Following your time at Hacienda Venecia, you will be returned to your accommodations.. You will be privately transferred from Hotel Sazagua to Pereira Airport by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide.. Board a flight in Pereira with service to Medellin, connecting via Bogota. Approximate flight duration is three hours.. Meet your private driver for a transfer between your accommodations and Medellin Airport. Approximate travel time varies based on the location of your hotel, typically averaging one hour.

Accommodation: Park 10 Hotel (B) (Junior Suite), Risaralda Coffee Region

Medellin

1/2 Day Social Transformation and Street Art (4 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide, Evening at Leisure

This social development tour of Medellin provides you with a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant Comuna 13 district and witness the miraculous transformation of what was once one of the country’s most troubled neighborhoods (“barrios”). In the past, Comuna 13 barrio was considered one of the most violent communities in Medellin's history. Today, the neighborhood showcases phenomenal transformation which has come about by way of innovative, determined social and urban planning by the local government and private investors. The success of Comuna 13’s ambitious makeover can serve as an inspiration and model for troubled and neglected communities around the world. Community leaders from the local organization Casa Kolacho guide you through the streets and pathways of this unique community. Their work with local artists encourage a message of unity through education and participation in performance arts including hip-hop, graffiti, break-dancing, and DJ’ing. Most of the live art that you will see on the walls and in the streets have been produced by youths in the area.. Enjoy a free evening to follow your interests, whether you step out to explore or unwind at your hotel.

Accommodation: Park 10 Hotel (B) (Junior Suite), Medellin

Medellin

El Penol & Guatape Tour (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver

You will be met in the hotel lobby by your guide and taken to El Peñol, a journey lasting approximately two hours. This day trip from Medellin takes you into the countryside of Antioquia to the giant monolith rock of El Peñol. Reminiscent of Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio, this 656-foot (200-meter) high rock towers over a series of beautiful lakes with a mountain backdrop. In the gentle, undulating scenery it is hard not to appreciate the stunning contrast between this picturesque region and the modern, cosmopolitan city of Medellin. At the top you are greeted with a 360-degree bird’s eye view of the surrounding country side. There is normally a guide on the top of the rock to explain the local geography of the area and some of the unusual rock formations around the lakes below, as well as to point out the confiscated houses of infamous Medellin resident Pablo Escobar. The nearby town of Guatape is a lakeside getaway for the residents of Medellin and is an ideal location to explore the rural charm of Antioquia and take a leisurely walk along the waterfront or through the main town square with its brightly painted houses and store fronts. Guatape has several pretty waterfront restaurants to enjoy delicious lunches cooked using locally sourced ingredients. Please note: Guests should prepare for extensive walking, often on rough, wet or uneven ground. Stout, comfortable footwear is advisable. Total walking time can be tailored on-site, however, guests should expect walk for a minimum of one hour and 30 minutes, and up to a maximum of four hours.

Accommodation: Park 10 Hotel (B) (Junior Suite), Medellin

Medellin, Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park

Airport Transfer - Private, Air - Medellin - Santa Marta [1.5 hrs] - Economy, Transfer - Private - Santa Marta - Tayrona National Park [Airport - 1 hr] - Vehicle/Guide/Driver

Meet your private driver for a transfer between your accommodations and Medellin Airport. Approximate travel time varies based on the location of your hotel, typically averaging one hour.. Board a flight in Medellin with service to Santa Marta. Approximate flight duration is one hour and 15 minutes. Please note, this flight is non-refundable.. You will be privately transferred from Simon Bolivar Airport in Santa Marta and your accommodations in Tayrona National Park by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Approximate travel duration is one hour.

Accommodation: Villa Playa Tayrona (B) (Deluxe Room), Medellin

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park Tour (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Private

Beside the town of Santa Marta, world-famous for its beautiful geography, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the highest coastal mountain range in the world, is Tayrona National Park. With a local private guide, embark on a day long tour, starting your walk along natural pathways through semi-tropical jungle vegetation towards the park's beaches, learning about the vegetation, animals and ecosystem along the way. Walking along one of the spectacular beaches you may have the opportunity to swim, depending on the condition of the seas. Lunch is included during your tour.

Accommodation: Villa Playa Tayrona (B) (Deluxe Room), Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park

Villa Playa Tayrona at Leisure

A paradise on the edge of Tayrona National Park, Villa Playa Tayrona is an oasis of peace and serenity. Start your day with a fresh and healthy breakfast, then take a leisurely dip at the villa’s pool before lounging in the hammock or the cushioned lawn chair. Relish in sumptuous palm-roofed spaces, enjoy a massage, or alternatively, walk over to the beach while taking in the sounds of waves splashing against the taupe beach sand and the quiet whistle of the wind among the trees. End the day by satisfying your palate with gourmet cuisine at the villa’s restaurant.

Accommodation: Villa Playa Tayrona (B) (Deluxe Room), Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park, Cartagena

Transfer - Private - Tayrona National Park - Cartagena [via Barranquilla - with Lunch, 8 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver/Guide, Cartagena by Night (with Dinner & Drinks, 3.5 hrs) - Private Tour

You will be privately transferred from Tayrona National Park to Cartagena by a professional driver and an English-speaking guide. Along the way, break up the five-hour transfer with a visit to Barranquilla. A bustling city that is host to the largest Carnival celebration outside of Rio, the city is also known among gastro-enthusiasts as a top spot for authentic Colombian Caribbean and fusion cuisine. Enjoy a brief city tour paired with a delicious lunch before returning to the road and carrying onward to your hotel in Cartagena.. As in many other places, the streets of Cartagena take on a new vibe after the sun goes down. Just before sunset, meet your guide and set out for a night on the town as you visit three local hot-spots for a taste of Cartagenean nightlife. Though the venues may vary based on the timing of your visit, you’ll begin the night with a stop at an open-air cocktail lounge located atop the historic city walls with stunning views of the city skyline and Caribbean to enjoy a cocktail before carrying onward for dinner at a local restaurant; with several culinary options available including Peruvian, Italian, Japanese and Colombian (please speak to your Destination Expert if you have a particular request). Rounding out the night, your guide will lead the way to a nearby establishment to take in some live music, capping off the evening with another round or two. Salsa is particularly popular in the city, and there is no better venue than Café Havana to watch dancers in full swing and feel a part of the culture. *Kindly be advised that at the end of the tour you have the option of returning with your guide back to the hotel, or you can simply stay at Café Havana, continue enjoying yourself, and make your own way back to the hotel.

Accommodation: Bastion Luxury Hotel (B) (Premium Bastion Room), Tayrona National Park

Cartagena

Historic Walking Tour with Cathedral, Inquisition Palace & San Pedro (4 hrs) - Private, Bastion Luxury Hotel - Rooftop Pool

After meeting your English-speaking guide in the lobby of your hotel, set out to discover scenic Cartagena on a four-hour walking tour. Begin with a stroll through the old town heading toward the Puerta Del Reloj, an iconic symbol of the city, and into Plaza de los Coches. Learn about the myth, legends and history of this historic city as you wind you way through tree-lined avenues en route to Plaza Bolivar, a park hosting a range of historic and cultural installations that serves as the ideal place to catch a glimpse of local life. Carrying onward, you’ll next visit the Inquisition Palace, an elegant building that hides a dark past. From the outside, it is easy to be impressed by the colonial architecture, but a walk through the building reveals a museum showcasing instruments of torture that were used in more turbulent times. With an expert guide leading the way, discover Cartagena in-depth and your preferred pace. After the tour, feel free to continue to explore the city on your own, or return to your hotel to relax and beat the afternoon sun.. Beyond the immaculate guestrooms, outstanding cuisine, exceptional service and state-of-the-art spa, Bastion Luxury Hotel stands out from other Cartagena hotels due to its rooftop swimming pool. Affording panoramic views of historic Cartagena, the rooftop pool at Bastion Luxury Hotel may be the finest in the city. Kick-back and relax during your down-time in the city, sitting on sun-loungers with a delicious refreshment in hand, or perhaps swim a few laps while enjoying the crisp Cartagena air.

Accommodation: Bastion Luxury Hotel (B) (Premium Bastion Room), Cartagena

Cartagena

Airport Transfer - Private

Set out with your private driver and English-speaking guide for a transfer between your hotel and Cartagena Airport. Approximate travel time varies based on the location of your hotel, typically averaging 30 minutes.

Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport) ( ), Cartagena