Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
We arrive in Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, and transfer to our hotel. Enjoy an orientation and Welcome Dinner this evening.
Today we explore Bogotá, starting with a visit to Monserrate, the city’s iconic hilltop sanctuary and its panoramic city views. Walk through the vibrant La Concordia Market, before continuing to the historic center to reach Plaza Bolívar. We end the day at the Gold Museum, with its extensive pre-Columbian gold collection.
We fly to Colombia’s lush Coffee Zone, a UNESCO cultural landscape. Travel through green hills dotted with plantations to a traditional coffee hacienda and spend the afternoon learning about coffee cultivation in the serene beauty of the Colombian countryside.
Venture into the heart of the Coffee Region, visiting the colonial town of Filandia. We ride classic Jeeps through Cocora Valley’s cloud forest and towering wax palms – the national tree of Colombia. Enjoy a local lunch, then explore the charming town of Salento, known for its handicrafts and mountain vistas from the Alto de la Cruz lookout.
Discover Colombia’s rich biodiversity at a private finca that hosts one of the country's largest orchid collections. As you wander through lush gardens, watch hummingbirds flit from flower to flower, attracted by sweet water fountains.
Today we fly back to Bogotá for a scenic drive to the famous Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá, an underground church carved into the tunnels of a working salt mine. Explore the symbolic Stations of the Cross and marvel at the cathedral’s vast, shadowy naves. Continue to the town of Villa de Leyva, known for its colonial charm and one of Latin America’s largest main squares.
We take a relaxed hike through the hills around Villa de Leyva, with views of terracotta rooftops and surrounding landscapes. Next, we travel to Ráquira, an artisan town known for pottery, and enjoy a ceramics workshop. We will stop at a fossil museum featuring the remains of prehistoric marine reptiles discovered in the area. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
This morning, we drive north to Barichara, often considered Colombia’s most beautiful town. This impeccably preserved colonial gem features quiet cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Discover Barichara’s heritage strolling through plazas, visiting historic churches, and its symbolic cemetery. This afternoon, we visit an artisanal paper workshop to learn how paper is made from natural fibers using traditional methods. We will also learn how local adobe (clay) construction techniques have helped homes remain cool under the midday sun.
We take a dramatic cable car ride across the Chicamocha Canyon, one of Colombia’s most impressive natural wonders. The ride offers panoramic views of the deep canyon and surrounding mountains. We transfer to Bucaramanga airport for our flight to the Caribbean coast, arriving in the historic city of Cartagena.
Explore the vibrant streets of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site bursting with history, colour, and culture. Visit its most significant colonial-era landmarks, including fortifications, churches, and lively plazas. Wander through narrow alleyways lined with bougainvillea-covered balconies and discover boutique shops, cafés, and galleries. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring or to relax in this tropical city.
We cruise to the Rosario Islands on a private boat excursion. Visit Cholon Lagoon, surrounded by mangroves and tiny islands. Enjoy free time to relax on the boat, swim, or explore the mangroves by kayak. Snorkeling is also available for those wishing to see the area’s marine life. This peaceful escape highlights Colombia’s coastal beauty and biodiversity.
We cruise to the Rosario Islands on a private boat excursion. Visit Cholon Lagoon, surrounded by mangroves and tiny islands. Enjoy free time to relax on the boat, swim, or explore the mangroves by kayak. Snorkeling is also available for those wishing to see the area’s marine life. This peaceful escape highlights Colombia’s coastal beauty and biodiversity.
This morning, we transfer to the airport for our departure flight, via Bogotá.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (90 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
