Essence of Colombia – 8 Days

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1 – Arrival in Bogotá | Airport Pick-Up

After arriving in Bogotá in the afternoon or evening, you will be transferred to the historic district of La Candelaria, where you will stay for the next two nights. The rest of the day is reserved for rest and acclimatization after your international flight. Bogotá is located at 2,600 meters above sea level, so we take the first evening at a relaxed pace to adjust to the altitude.

DAY 2 – Bogotá

Today we explore Bogotá, visiting its historic districts and main landmarks, beginning with panoramic views from Cerro de Monserrate before continuing through the colonial city center.

In the morning, after breakfast, we head directly to Cerro de Monserrate to take advantage of the best weather and visibility. From the summit at 3,210 meters above sea level, we enjoy sweeping views over Bogotá. At the top, we find a Catholic basilica dating from 1925, along with souvenir stalls, local handicrafts, refreshments, and restaurants serving traditional Colombian cuisine.

After descending, we continue to the historic district of La Candelaria, known for its narrow streets and colorful colonial houses. At Plaza Bolívar, we see the Capilla del Sagrario Cathedral, the Parliament building, the Palace of Justice, and City Hall. We also visit the renowned Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), home to approximately 15,000 pre-Columbian gold artifacts.

Return to the hotel in the evening (together or individually).

DAY 3 – Flight to Medellín

Depending on the flight schedule, we enjoy free time or visit the famous Paloquemao fruit market before flying to Medellín.

Depending on the timing of our flight, we either enjoy free time or visit the lively Paloquemao market, one of Bogotá’s most famous traditional markets. Here, we discover and taste a wide variety of exotic tropical fruits and experience local daily life.
We then transfer to the airport and fly to Medellín. If time permits after arrival, we enjoy a pleasant walk through the city.

DAY 4 – Medellín City Tour & Comuna 13

Today we explore Medellín, including its historic center and the famous Comuna 13 district, finishing the day with panoramic views from El Pueblito Paisa.

After breakfast, we set out to explore Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, also known as the City of Eternal Spring. Once infamous for its turbulent past, Medellín is today a global example of urban transformation and innovation.
We visit the historic center, including Plaza Botero with its 23 monumental sculptures by Fernando Botero, as well as the Palace of Culture, Bolívar Park, and the Metropolitan Basilica Cathedral, declared a national monument in 1982.

We then visit Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world, now transformed through outdoor escalators, vibrant street art, and strong community initiatives. In the evening, we head to El Pueblito Paisa, a traditional Antioquian village replica offering panoramic views over the city. Return to the hotel together or individually.

DAY 5 – Flight to Cartagena de Indias

The morning is free before we fly to the colonial city of Cartagena de Indias on the Caribbean coast.

Depending on flight schedules, the morning is free for personal activities or visiting local markets such as Plaza América or Plaza Minorista.
We then transfer to the airport and fly to Cartagena de Indias. Founded in 1533, Cartagena was one of the most important ports in Spanish America and developed one of the most extensive fortification systems in Latin America due to frequent pirate attacks. Its historic center and fortifications have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. We stay here for the next three nights.

DAY 6 – Cartagena City Tour & Fortresses

We discover one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the Caribbean, exploring its historic fortresses, colorful neighborhoods, and elegant colonial center, with the option to enjoy a memorable sunset from the city walls.

After breakfast, we head out early to visit the impressive San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, avoiding the higher temperatures later in the day. Named after King Philip IV of Spain, this is the largest and strongest fortress ever built by the Spanish in their colonies. Original cannons, prison areas, and underground tunnels highlight the strategic importance and authenticity of this site.

We then continue to Cerro de la Popa, the highest point in Cartagena. At its summit, we visit the colonial church and convent of the Order of Augustinian Recollects, built between 1606 and 1611, while enjoying panoramic views over the historic center, modern districts, and the Caribbean Sea.

Afterward, we explore the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemaní, known for its colorful streets, street art, and lively local atmosphere. We then continue into the historic walled city, walking through its charming streets and plazas. We visit Plaza Bolívar and see key landmarks such as the cathedral, the Church and Monastery of San Pedro Claver, the Palace of the Inquisition, and the Church of Santo Domingo.

At the end of the tour, there is the option to remain in the walled city and enjoy sunset views from the historic city walls—a truly romantic and unforgettable way to experience Cartagena. Return to the hotel individually in the evening.

DAY 7 – Rosario Islands

We enjoy a full-day excursion to the Rosario Islands archipelago, famous for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.

Today we spend the day in the Rosario Islands, located about 35 kilometers south of Cartagena. The archipelago consists of 27 islands surrounded by coral reefs and turquoise waters and is protected as a national park.
We take a boat trip to one of the islands, enjoy time to relax and swim, and have lunch before returning to Cartagena in the afternoon.

DAY 8 – Departure

Departure from Cartagena to Bogotá, followed by your international flight home.

According to the flight schedule, we transfer to the airport for the flight to Bogotá, where you connect to your international flight.
If your international flight departs from another city, this connection can be adjusted accordingly. In case of a later departure from Cartagena, an additional activity and airport transfer can be arranged depending on the schedule.

Optional Extra Day – Medellín & Guatapé

A scenic full-day excursion to one of Colombia’s most colorful towns and iconic landscapes.

Guatapé is a picturesque town located about 80 kilometers east of Medellín, famous for its brightly painted houses, decorative zócalos, and stunning lakeside setting. We climb the more than 700 steps of El Peñón de Guatapé for breathtaking panoramic views, enjoy a boat trip on the reservoir, and visit the remains of Pablo Escobar’s former lakeside property.
After lunch, we explore the charming streets of Guatapé before returning to Medellín in the evening.

What is included

• All domestic flights
• Cabin and checked luggage according to baggage rules
• Entry fees (except optional on-site admissions)
• All transportation during the tour except during free time
• 7 nights in 3* and 4* hotels
• 7 breakfasts
• 1 lunch on excursion to Islas del Rosario
• English speaking guide throughout the tour (except during free time)