LUXURY TAILOR MADE TRAVEL

Tailor-Made Colombia: Bogotá to Cartagena

9 days, 5-star from $4,695

Embark on an action-packed 9-day trip to Colombia that gives you more than enough time to receive a fantastic in-depth introduction to this geographically and ethnically diverse country. From the world’s third-highest capital Bogotá to the lush Cocora Valley and coffee triangle before reaching a city of superb beauty and well-preserved colonial past on the shores of the Caribbean, Cartagena – there’s so much to discover and savour!

Colombia at a Glance

Colombia is a fantastic gay-friendly destination, with warm and welcoming people and a generally safe environment in bigger cities. With more than a few anti-discrimination laws in place and legalized same-sex marriage since 2014, you can enjoy your time in Colombia quite freely, feeling like your most authentic self in places like Bogotá and Medellín. Smaller towns and villages are still quite conservative, so be cautious about public displays of affection. Diversity in Colombia can be seen not only in its society but in its geography, too. This vibrant South American country has everything from white-sand beaches to dramatic peaks and lush tropical forests. The weather remains pretty good throughout the year but the best time to visit is between December and March and June through September.

Photo: Jorge Gardner

Photo: Ricardo Gomez Angel

9-day travel itinerary

DAY 1

Arrive in Bogotá, Colombia

Arrive in the vibrant capital Bogotá and transfer to your luxury hotel.

DAY 2

Bogotá | Market & Museum Visits

Begin your day by visiting a local market, where a private guide will introduce you to the fantastic assortment of vegetables, exotic fruits, meat, seafood, herbs, and cheese. Sample some of the various fruits and grab a snack for later! Visit the historic downtown La Candelaria, the cultural epicentre of the city. Stop at Plaza de Bolivar, Congress Palace, the Cardinal’s Palace, and the beautiful El Sagrario and San Agustin churches showcasing exemplary colonial architecture. Visit Museo del Oro and Museo de Botero to see pre-colonial gold crafts and a splendid collection of European impressionist art. Finish the day atop Cerro de Montserrat with commanding views of Bogotá.

DAY 3

Bogotá | Salt Cathedral

Today you’re heading to the outskirts of Bogotá. The first is the town of Zipaquirá. Visit the town’s main square and the epic Salt Cathedral – a Roman Catholic church located in a former salt mine. After enjoying a traditional lunch, go to Usaquén, one of Bogotá’s neighbourhoods that used to be an independent town. Despite being swallowed by the capital, it retains its bohemian character and Andean village charm. Walk the quaint streets, visit the small boutiques or enjoy local gastronomy in one of the many bakeries and pubs.

DAY 4

Armenia | The Coffee Triangle

Colombian coffee is world-renowned, and today you are visiting a part of the famous coffee triangle. An expert guide will take you on a tour of Hacienda San Alberto, an acclaimed coffee plantation, where you will learn insights into coffee production and sample some of the best locally-grown coffees. Finish the day at Pareira.

DAY 5

Cocora Valley | Home of the Wax Palm

Head to the Cocora National Park, where you will visit Cocora Valley, home to the tallest palm trees in the world and misty mountain forests. After that, enjoy a traditional meal consisting of the Andean drink canelazo and smoked trout. Leave a mark by partaking in Ritual de la Palm, during which you will plant wax palms. Next, visit Salento and tour the city’s vibrant streets full of restaurants and small shops. Make a stop at Café Jesús Martín, one of the best coffee shops in Salento, for a quick latte-art demonstration.

DAY 6

Cartagena | Vibrant Colonial Jewel

Leave Bogotá in the morning and fly to Cartagena, where you will check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 7

Cartagena | Imposing Fortress

Today visit some of the most notable historic sites in Cartagena – the 17th-century Convento de la Popa overlooking the city and the bay, the impressive Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress, former dungeons at Las Bóvedas, and Santuario de San Pedro Claver baroque church and convent.

DAY 8

Cartagena | Culinary Walk In The Walled City

Step into the shoes of a local as you go on a gastronomic walking tour through Cartagena, sampling local flavours and foods along the way. With the help of a local guide, you will not only learn more about daily life in Cartagena but also gain valuable cultural and historical insights. In the evening, a private boat will take you on a memorable ride on the bay of Cartagena as you sip on cocktails, watch the sunset, and toast your Colombian adventure.

DAY 9

Depart Cartagena

After a delicious breakfast, leave for the airport and board a flight home.

Additional recommended experiences

Enhance your journey and take it to new heights with a variety of options available for an additional cost. Discover the perfect pairing of rum and chocolate with a tasting led by an experienced sommelier. Indulge in some of Colombia's finest varieties while learning about the nuances of each. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting a Cartagena home and sharing a meal with the family. Enjoy a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere while hearing about daily life in the city. For those passionate about food, sample the diverse culinary wonders of Bogotá. Take a tour of four different restaurants, each with its own history and specialities, while savouring a four-course menu. Take a leisurely stroll through the San Alejo flea market, a popular Sunday outing in the heart of the city and sample "Onces Santafereñas," the traditional Bogotá equivalent to British afternoon tea.

Let Us Book Your Luxury Colombia Vacation

Get in touch if you would like us to arrange your Colombia trip. Did you have a different Colombia itinerary in mind? No problem. We tailor every trip to your individual travel style and budget so just let us know what you’re looking for.