Colombia Discovery
15 Days Starting in Bogota, Colombia and ending in Cartagena, Colombia
Visiting: Bogota, Valle del Cocora, Pereira, Medellin, Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park, Cartagena
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1381
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Kosher, Jain, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Colombia Discovery" tour and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Colombia. Begin your journey in the bustling capital of Bogota, exploring its historic center, markets, and museums. Discover the underground marvel of the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira before heading to the lush Valle de Cocora and the charming towns of Salento and Filandia. Experience the rich coffee culture in Pereira, then travel to Medellin to admire its innovative urban design and vibrant street art. Continue to the Caribbean coast, visiting the historic city of Santa Marta and the stunning Tayrona National Park. Conclude your adventure in the enchanting port city of Cartagena, with its colonial architecture, lively street food, and cultural experiences. This tour offers a perfect blend of urban exploration, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Fly To Bogota
Location: Bogota, Bogota
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly to Colombia's vibrant capital, Bogota, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, taking some time to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Explore Bogota
Location: Bogota, Bogota
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The beating heart of Colombia, Bogota is an engaging and enchanting place to explore. Begin at Paloquemo market, where you’ll get to taste some of the local produce, before heading to the historic centre, La Candelaria, to admire the grand colonial architecture and impressive cathedral. Visit the Botero and Gold museums then enjoy some local delicacies for lunch. Ride the cable car up to the mountaintop Santuario de Monserrate, where you will enjoy spectacular views over the city.
Day 3: Salt Cathedral
Location: Bogota
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Just outside Bogota is one of Colombia’s most unusual attractions; the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira. Built 200 metres below ground in a former salt mine and beautifully illuminated, this cavernous space is considered an outstanding example of modern Colombian architecture. Return to Bogota and catch your flight to Pereira.
Day 4: Valle Del Cocora
Location: Valle del Cocora
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head into the Central Mountains and the beautiful landscapes of the Valle de Cocora. Take an easy hike through a wax palm forest to discover the diverse range of flora and fauna that calls it home, including the Quindío wax palm, Colombia’s national tree. Spend the afternoon in the traditional towns of Salento and Filandia, both full of colourful colonial architecture and handicraft shops, including a visit to a basket weaving workshop.
Day 5: Coffee Plantations
Location: Pereira
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Pereira is part of the Colombia's Coffee Axis and the UNESCO-listed Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia. Spend the morning out exploring the landscapes of the coffee estates and pay a visit to a typical hacienda where you'll enjoy an informative tour followed by a tasting session, guided by a master taster.
Day 6: Travel To Medellin
Location: Medellin
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer to the airport and fly to the hillside city of Medellin.
Day 7: Discover Medellin
Location: Medellin
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Colombia's second largest city Medellin, where you will spend the day seeing the city's sights, taking the cable car up Cerro Nutibara for panoramic views, admiring the sculptures of Colombian artist Fernando Botero, exploring the pioneering city transport system that links the suburbs to the city centre, and admiring some excellent street art. You will also participate in a musical experience before enjoying a cooking demonstration for lunch.
Day 8: Around Medellin
Location: Medellin
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel out of the city to explore the surrounding region. Stop at La Piedra del Peñol, a towering rock monolith that was once worshipped by the local indigenous community. The 700-step climb to the top is optional, but those who do it will be rewarded with views across a huge reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam built in the 1970s. Continue to the town of Guatape where you'll wander the streets lined with vividly coloured buildings. Return to Medellin.
Day 9: Fly To Santa Marta
Location: Santa Marta
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Medellin and fly to the Caribbean seaside city of Santa Marta. In the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, whose peaks can be seen from the beach, Santa Marta was founded in 1525, making it one of South America's oldest cities. On arrival, you'll explore the beautiful old colonial district before heading out of the city to the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the bays of Rodadero and the fishing village of Taganga.
Day 10: Tayrona National Park
Location: Tayrona National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the exotic coastline of the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona today, winding through tropical forest before arriving at the Sea of the Seven Wave, a natural viewpoint from which to enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Walk a short way along a stretch of golden sand backed by lush rainforest to reach the boat which will take you on a cruise over to Playa Cristal, a beach of extraordinary beauty where you can take a refreshing dip.
Day 11: Travel To Cartagena
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel by road this morning from Santa Marta to the Caribbean port of Cartagena, where the afternoon will be spent exploring the city, its vibrant historic centre, and its tastiest eats on a delicious street food tour.
Day 12: The Jewel Of The Indies
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, your city tour will start with panoramic views over the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Continue to San Felipe Fortress and the Convent and Church of San Pedro Claver in the Ciudad Vieja (old city). Browse the the wares of the artisan centre housed in the Bovedas, before a rum tasting experience during which you can try a variety of favourites, followed by a fun salsa lesson before dinner.
Day 14-15 Fly Cartagena To Uk
Location: Bogota, Bogota
Meals Included: Breakast
Fly from Cartagena to the UK, arriving home the following day.
Day 13: Visit La Boquilla
Location: Cartagena
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore La Boquilla, a steadfast Afro-descendant fishing village preserving its cultural heritage for over two centuries. Immerse yourself in a workshop that connects you with Afro-Colombian drum rhythms through hands-on interaction. Following this experience, indulge in a serene catamaran sunset cruise before dinner in the heart of the walled city.
What's Included
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Airport Transfer
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel upon arrival in Bogota.
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Meals
Meals are included throughout the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are included for all major attractions such as Paloquemo market, La Candelaria, Botero and Gold museums, Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, Valle Del Cocora, coffee plantations, Medellin, La Piedra del Peñol, Guatape, Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park, Cartagena, and La Boquilla.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels throughout the tour.
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Internal Flights
Internal flights between Bogota, Pereira, Medellin, and Santa Marta are included.
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Transportation
All transportation within Colombia, including transfers and road travel, is included.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to all included attractions and sites are covered.
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Activities
Activities such as a cable car ride, cooking demonstration, musical experience, basket weaving workshop, coffee tasting session, rum tasting experience, salsa lesson, and catamaran sunset cruise are included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Colombia are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any other travel documentation costs are not included.
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Tips and Gratuities
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes flights between major cities such as Bogota, Pereira, Medellin, and Santa Marta, as well as road travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are included in the Valle Del Cocora visit?
In Valle Del Cocora, you will take an easy hike through a wax palm forest to discover diverse flora and fauna, including the Quindío wax palm, Colombia's national tree. You will also visit the traditional towns of Salento and Filandia, explore their colorful colonial architecture and handicraft shops, and visit a basket weaving workshop.
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What can I expect to see and do in Bogota?
In Bogota, you will explore the Paloquemo market, taste local produce, visit the historic centre La Candelaria, admire grand colonial architecture and the impressive cathedral, visit the Botero and Gold museums, enjoy local delicacies for lunch, and ride the cable car up to the mountaintop Santuario de Monserrate for spectacular views over the city.
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What will I see in Santa Marta?
In Santa Marta, you will explore the beautiful old colonial district, visit the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the bays of Rodadero, and the fishing village of Taganga.
-
What can I do around Medellin?
Around Medellin, you can explore the surrounding region, stop at La Piedra del Peñol, a towering rock monolith, and optionally climb 700 steps to the top for views across a huge reservoir. You will also visit the town of Guatape and wander the streets lined with vividly colored buildings.
-
What will I experience at the coffee plantations in Pereira?
In Pereira, you will explore the landscapes of the coffee estates, visit a typical hacienda, and enjoy an informative tour followed by a tasting session guided by a master taster.
-
What is special about the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira?
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is built 200 meters below ground in a former salt mine and is beautifully illuminated. It is considered an outstanding example of modern Colombian architecture.
-
What will I experience in Cartagena?
In Cartagena, you will explore the city, its vibrant historic centre, and enjoy a delicious street food tour. You will also have panoramic views over the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa, visit San Felipe Fortress, the Convent and Church of San Pedro Claver, and the artisan centre in the Bovedas. Additionally, you will have a rum tasting experience and a fun salsa lesson before dinner.
-
What activities are included in Tayrona National Park?
In Tayrona National Park, you will explore the exotic coastline, wind through tropical forest, enjoy the view from the Sea of the Seven Waves, walk along a stretch of golden sand backed by lush rainforest, and take a boat cruise to Playa Cristal, where you can take a refreshing dip.
-
What is special about La Boquilla?
La Boquilla is a steadfast Afro-descendant fishing village that has preserved its cultural heritage for over two centuries. You will participate in a workshop connecting you with Afro-Colombian drum rhythms through hands-on interaction, followed by a serene catamaran sunset cruise before dinner in the heart of the walled city.
-
What are the highlights of the Medellin city tour?
In Medellin, you will see the city's sights, take the cable car up Cerro Nutibara for panoramic views, admire the sculptures of Colombian artist Fernando Botero, explore the pioneering city transport system, admire excellent street art, participate in a musical experience, and enjoy a cooking demonstration for lunch.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.
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Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?
Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.
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What is 'Happy to Share'?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.
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Do you allow children on your tours?
We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.
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Free Date Changes
Wendy Wu allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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How we Keep you safe on our Tours
Your safety and well-being will always be our Number 1 priority which is why we’ve instituted the most stringent COVID health and safety protocols on all of our tours. Here is a brief summary of the steps we are taking to ensure you will be safe, secure and satisfied when you travel with us.
Guides and National Escorts
Our National Escorts and guides will conduct a Health and Safety briefing with you before the tour begins and will help everyone ensure they adhere to social distancing, hygiene practises and local regulations. They will carry a supply of face masks and hand sanitiser for you to use free of charge and will, of course, observe the highest level of personal hygiene at all times.
Should anyone on the group fall ill your National Escort will ensure the individual receives swift medical attention and can only return to the group once cleared to do so.
Transport & Sightseeing
Vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant after each excursion service, overnight and between different groups.
You will always have at least one seat between you and your fellow tourers, hand sanitiser will be given to the group on each embarkation and vehicles will be thoroughly ventilated prior to passengers boarding.
Drivers will always embark vehicles after clients, disembark the group vehicle prior to clients disembarking, and maintain social distancing and a high level of personal hygiene at all times.
Your guides will assess the situation on the ground avoiding large crowds – where possible, alter timings and splitting the group into smaller sizes.
Accommodation
Wendy Wu Tours will only offer hotels that have undergone a detailed hygiene assessment, have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with government standards.
We will ensure these protocols include staff practising social distancing and wearing appropriate PPI, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in all areas and food safety.
Dining
All the restaurants we visit will be researched and inspected regularly to ensure that they follow the strictest health, cleanliness and safety guidelines.
All waiting staff will wear face masks and gloves and we will arrange à la carte dining, waiter-served meals or waiter-assisted buffets throughout the tour. We will not share open-buffet meals with other hotel or restaurant guests.
Hand sanitiser will be provided to the group before and after every food and beverage service.