Experience Colombia with Leah

Welcome to Cartagena! Prepare for an array of exciting activities and experiences that will leave a lasting impression, offering a glimpse into Colombian culture. From captivating historical sites to breathtaking landscapes, each moment promises to be memorable. Feel free to arrive at your leisure today and embark on your explorations. Later at 6pm, join your tour leader and fellow travelers for an essential welcome meeting at the hotel, followed by a delightful welcome dinner at the esteemed Sierpe restaurant.

Included Activities

• Welcome meeting with tour leader at 6pm
• Welcome Dinner

Accommodation

• Hotel Villa Colonial – Twin rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Dinner

This morning, embark on a city tour led by your guide, offering a chance to familiarize yourself with the enchanting city of Cartagena. Discover key landmarks and delve into Colombia’s rich history and culture. Afterward, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace, allowing for further independent adventures and discoveries.

Included Activities

• Half day city tour with tour leader

Accommodation

• Hotel Villa Colonial – Twin rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Today offers you the freedom to explore Cartagena at your leisure. Consider joining an optional day tour to San Basilio de Palenque, where a knowledgeable local guide will unveil the fascinating history of this remarkable town. Palenque, which attained freedom two centuries prior to Colombia’s Independence, has preserved its distinct culture, including a unique language, over the centuries, making it a captivating world within a village.

Optional Activity

• Full day San Basilio de Palenque, transport included. Price per pax circa $100 USD
• Rosario Islands Boat Trip with Lunch (from) – circa USD70

Accommodation

• Hotel Villa Colonial – Twin rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Today after breakfast we’ll head to Cartagena airport for our domestic flight heading south to Medellin. Upon arrival, we’ll be transferred to the hotel, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Medellin or simply unwind and relax in the comfort of your hotel.

Accommodation

• La Campana Hotel Boutique – Twin rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Join your English-speaking local guide and driver for a visit to Commune 13. You’ll hop on a public bus from the station to reach the commune, a short ride of approximately 10 minutes. Once infamous as one of Colombia’s most perilous neighborhoods during the 80s and 90s, Commune 13 has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it’s renowned for its vibrant graffiti, street art performances, and insightful walking tours. The implementation of new infrastructure, such as a cable car system and six outdoor escalators, has revitalized life in this area.

Later in the afternoon, you have the option to explore independently or participate in an optional tour of Moravia, Medellin’s most populous neighborhood. Moravia, once plagued by heaps of rubbish, has been revitalized into a garden-covered hillside, showcasing the resilience and innovation of its community.

Included Activities

• Half Day Transformation tour – Commune 13 with English speaking guide and transport.

Optional add on activity:

• Tour of Moravia (from $28)

Accommodation

• La Campana Hotel Boutique – Twin rooms- or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Today we have a private transfer from Medellín to Salento, with an approximate duration of 6 hours. Upon arrival, engage in an educational tour that offers an interactive glimpse into the daily activities of a coffee region farmer, providing a chance to reconnect with the traditions of past generations.

Embark on a journey through coffee crops, starting from the seedbed to understand the planting process and ongoing maintenance. Explore the coffee crops and visit the coffee beneficio (processing area) located around the estate, where coffee is currently processed. Conclude the tour with a lesson on preparing (and of course indulging in) a perfect cup of coffee.

Included Activities

• Coffee farm tour with transport, coffee program, and English-speaking guide.

Accommodation

• Salento Real Hotel- Twin rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Salento, hailed as the oldest village in the department, holds the distinguished title of “Father of the municipalities,” being the inaugural town founded in the area. Its charm lies in its traditional architecture and artisan workshops, creating an indelible impression on visitors. Wander through streets adorned with colonial houses painted in a kaleidoscope of colors, adorned with balconies overflowing with vibrant flowers. The warmth and hospitality of its inhabitants further enhance the unforgettable experience of Salento, leaving an enduring memory.

Continuing our journey, we’ll marvel at the majestic Wax Palm, Colombia’s national tree, nestled within the breathtaking Cocora Valley. A leisurely walk of up to 2 hours allows us to soak in the beauty of the landscape, surrounded by verdant hillsides and towering palms, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. After a delicious lunch, we’ll have time to explore the village before heading off.

Included Activities

• Cocora Valley and Salento tour, includes local guide, lunch and transport in jeep Willys

Accommodation

• Salento Real Hotel- Twin rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast and lunch

Today, you’ll board a flight to Bogotá, Colombia’s vibrant capital, departing around noon. Upon arrival, you’ll head to your hotel before embarking on an exploration of the iconic La Candelaria District. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, delve into the district’s historic buildings and renowned street art, gaining insights into Colombia’s rich history and the eclectic charm that defines cosmopolitan Bogotá.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll go out for a lovely farewell dinner, reflecting on the memorable experiences shared throughout our journey.

Included Activities

• La Candelaria walking tour
• Farewell dinner

Accommodation

Vilar América Hotel -Twin Rooms – or similar

Meals Included

• Breakfast and dinner

After sharing our final breakfast together, today’s itinerary is open, allowing you the freedom to depart at your convenience. Should you choose to explore further, consider a visit to Bogotá’s Botanic Gardens or the National Museum of Colombia.

Meals Included

• Breakfast