Colombia

Tour members gather in Toronto for the evening direct flight to Bogota.

Upon arrival, we are met and transferred to our centrally located hotel for an early check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to unwind and acclimatize to our new Andean setting until we gather in the evening for our Welcome Dinner.

Bioxury Hotel (3 nights) 

Zipaquira, a small town just outside of Bogota is home to the Salt Cathedral. This remarkable underground structure was built 180m deep in a salt mine that has been utilized since Pre-Columbian times. Featuring intricate salt and marble sculptures, it is considered one of the seven wonders of Colombia. Back in Bogota we enjoy an afternoon at leisure.

Our exploration begins with the colourful Paloquemao Market where you will find delicious exotic fruits. Become acquainted with the historic epicentre of La Candelaria which is lined with a vibrant display of colonial buildings, housing trendy cafés and bars echoing with live music. Explore the Plaza de Bolivar, encircled by four of Bogota’s architectural highlights: the City Hall, the Congress of Colombia, and the venerable Primada Cathedral. The Gold Museum offers one of the finest collections of pre-Hispanic gold in the world with more than 35,000 pieces on display. At Museo Botero, discover the paintings and sculptures of Colombia's most renowned artist, Fernando Botero. Following lunch, ascend the majestic Monserrate Mountain via a cable car and visit the 17th century monastery devoted to El Señor Caído (Fallen Lord) for spectacular views over the city and surrounding area.   

Fly to Armenia, a prominent city in Colombia’s renowned coffee region. Our first stop is the Quindio Botanical Gardens, an oasis of natural beauty and home to a butterfly farm. Paths meander throughout the garden unveiling a diverse range of flora. Admire the stunning mountain vistas as we continue to the charming village of Pereira.
Casa San Carlos Lodge (3 nights)

Hop aboard a Willys Jeep as we wind our way through the Cocora Valley, known as the "Valley of the Palms," one of the country's greatest natural wonders. Nestled amidst towering mountains, the valley is dotted with hundreds of giant wax palm trees, which is Colombia’s national tree. Enjoy a short walk followed by free time to explore before heading back to the quaint village of Salento. Walk along Calle Real, where you can explore a plethora of handicraft stalls and indulge in the diverse culinary offerings of its abundant restaurants. At the end of Calle Real is a staircase that takes you up to the Alto de La Cruz, a hill adorned with a cross. From this elevated vantage point you can take in fantastic views of the Cocora Valley and the majestic cordillera of the Andean mountains that encircle it.

In the heart of Manizales lies Finca Romelia, a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural wonders. With 6,000 orchid plants, 160 bird species, and a fascinating variety of carnivorous plants, this destination offers a mesmerizing experience. Surrounded by temperate rainforests, delightful streams, and rivers that crisscross through the mountains, the area also boasts avocado, yuca, and citrus plantations. Continue to Hacienda Venecia, a local coffee farm and plantation, where we will learn about the process used to turn the humble coffee bean into one of the world’s most beloved drinks. Take a walk through the undulating grounds of the farm with its winding rows of plants. Learn how the beans are cleaned and roasted before they are finally brewed and tasted.

Fly to Medellin, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring”. Despite having a checkered past, the city has been reborn over the past decade, growing into one of the liveliest and friendliest cities in the world. Stroll through the bustling downtown streets to the famous Botero Plaza featuring 23 sculptures of Botero that have become landmarks of his hometown. Our city tour will bring its dynamic character to life and provide insights into its significant role in both commerce and culture. Take a cable car ride to revel in the incredible panoramic views of the city.
Click Clack Hotel (3 nights)

Santa Fe de Antioquia is a little village located west of Medellin and was the former capital of Antioquia until 1826. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its beautiful colonial architecture, with buildings dating back to the 17th century. Notably, the Church of Saint Barbara stands as a remarkable architectural gem. During our stay in Antioquia, we will visit the famous Bridge of the West across the Cauca River, which is one of the longest and oldest suspension bridges in Latin America. Return to Medellin this afternoon for some free time to explore or just relax.

Today, we will have the chance to explore Medellin’s rural surroundings, where we can take in the mesmerizing views of undulating hills and lush greenery. Nearby is the remarkable Peñol Boulder, standing at an impressive height of 656 feet. For the truly energetic, there may be an opportunity to climb the 740 steps that lead to the top. Continue east to the village of Guatape know for its gorgeous white and red church and vibrantly painted homes.

Late this morning we fly directly to the beautiful Caribbean coast and the historic city of Cartagena. On arrival, following lunch, our guide will take us on a walking excursion through the old town, visiting the convent and church of Saint Peter Claver and the Afro-Caribbean Museum. In the historic centre of Cartagena, colour splashes every corner, balconies overflow with blossoming flowers, and history seeps beneath the ancient wooden doors of colonial buildings. Our boutique colonial hotel is located in the heart of the old quarter, surrounded by wonderful plazas and historic buildings.

Hotel Casa Don Luis (3 nights)   

Get ready to marvel at Colombia's avian wonders at the National Aviary, a must-see for any bird enthusiast. This remarkable sanctuary gives us front-row seats to the country’s world-renowned avian biodiversity. Colombia boasts an unrivalled 1,900+ recorded bird species within its borders. Learn all about the importance of conservation and animal welfare practices. On Cholon Bay, after a pleasant lunch, we cruise among the tiny islands that dot this coast. Enjoy the sparkling white beaches, the turquoise waters and the mangroves along the coast, before returning to Cartagena later this afternoon.

The final day is free at leisure to explore on your own. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Castillo San Felipe, the massive fort that dominates the old town and the harbour. Perched atop the highest point overlooking the city, the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa offers fantastic views of the sweeping cityscape, the bustling harbour, and  the azure Caribbean Sea spreading to the horizon beyond. This evening, we gather for our special Farewell Dinner.

All too soon, our Colombian adventure comes to a close - this morning we catch our flights via Bogota to Toronto with connections to our homes across Canada.