Discover the incredible diversity, sweeping landscapes and colonial architecture of this enchanting country. From intriguing Spanish colonial towns, pre-Hispanic artefacts and fine museums to sun-kissed beaches, lush cloud forests and emerald coffee plantations that lie beneath soaring mountain peaks, Colombia is a treasure trove of natural and cultural delights.


ITINERARY
DAY 1 - LONDON TO BOGOTÁ
Fly Iberia from Heathrow to Madrid, then onwards to Bogotá, the sophisticated and cosmopolitan capital. Spend two nights at the Hotel Andino Royal.

DAY 2 - BOGOTÁ
Morning visit to the historic centre, La Candelaria, which boasts bustling plazas, churches and fantastic museums and fine colonial buildings including stately homes where charming courtyards and beautiful gardens hide behind heavy doors. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar which has served as a marketplace, bullring and gallows over the years. Discover important religious artefacts at the 19th Century Cathedral which features tall columns and carved stonework. Continue to the Museo Botero (closed Tuesdays), a colonial house bursting with artworks from famous Colombian painter Fernando Botero as well as a number of other eminent artists such as Picasso, Monet and Matisse. Discover the remarkable collection of gleaming gold pre-Hispanic artefacts and precious stones at the Mueso de Oro (closed Mondays), a fascinating museum with great cultural significance. Afternoon at leisure to explore the city further.

DAY 3 - BOGOTÁ TO VILLA DE LEYVA
Journey north through the Sabana de Bogota, a high plateau peppered with greenhouses which are used for the cultivation of carnations and roses – an important part of the country’s thriving flower industry. Arrive in Zipaquira (approx. 1¼ hours), one of Colombia's oldest cities, and explore the amazing underground Cathedral of Zipaquira, which is carved out of salt. In the afternoon continue to the beautiful colonial town of Villa de Leyva (approx. 2 hours) for one night at the romantic Hotel la Posada de San Antonio. Visit Museo el Fósil, a museum built around the fossil of a 120 million-year old kronosaurus that was found in 1977.

DAY 4 - ZIPAQUIRA TO PEREIRA
On your return to Bogotá, visit the Convento del Santo Ecce Homo, which was founded by the Dominicans in 1620 and boasts an ethnography museum and pretty courtyard. Fly to Pereira and upon arrival transfer to the beautiful Hotel Hacienda San Jose for three nights.

DAY 5 - PEREIRA
Visit the stunning Valle de Cocora which is nestled in the central mountains of Quindio. This region is part of the Parque National de los Nevados and it is a fantastic spot to view the Quindian wax palm, Colombia’s national tree which can grow up to an amazing 60 metres tall. The valley is also renowned for its abundance of birdlife and you may see hummingbirds and the endangered palm parrot as you hike or horse trek (extra cost payable locally) through the cloud forest. Cross the River Quindio and learn about the sacred wax palms before stopping at a local trout farm to enjoy a delicious lunch of smoked trout. Enjoy some free time before journeying to the attractive town of Filandia for a tour of the colonial houses and the Plaza de Bolivar. Continue to Cocoroa and the charming and tranquil town of Salento for a tour, visiting the Plaza de Bolivar which boasts brightly painted balconies, the Calle Real and colourful handicraft shops.

DAY 6 - PEREIRA
Today visit the area’s coffee plantations which blanket an endless panorama of emerald hills dotted with red heliconia flowers. Stop at the Alto de la Paz for beautiful views over the plantations – the perfect photo opportunity. Continue to a coffee hacienda to learn about the coffee-making process from harvesting to toasting, and the superior characteristics of Colombian coffee. Afternoon at leisure.

DAY 7 - PEREIRA TO CARTAGENA
Early flight to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cartagena, which is known as the ‘Best Fortified City of the Americas’. Spend three nights at the colonial-style Ananda Boutique Hotel.

DAY 8 - CARTAGENA
Drink in the spectacular panoramic views of the city and bustling port from the 17th Century Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa which sits high in the hills and resembles the stern of a galleon. Visit the San Felipe Fortress which was originally built to protect the city from pirate attacks and is replete with tunnels, cannons and bastions. Continue to Ciudad Vieja, the Old City, to visit San Pedro Claver Convent before exploring Las Bovedas which is renowned for its handicrafts. Afternoon at leisure.

DAY 9 - CARTAGENA
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the city’s pretty plazas and narrow streets lined with colourful buildings or you may wish to take a private boat (approx. 1 hour) to visit the Rosario Islands, an attractive archipelago of coral islands and reefs (extra cost).

DAY 10 - CARTAGENA TO LONDON
Fly to Bogotá and onwards with Iberia to Heathrow via Madrid, arriving the next day.


GUIDE The Contrasts of Colombia tour is escorted by English-speaking local guides. Extensions are not escorted but assistance will be provided by our local representatives.

MEAL PLAN Prices include breakfast throughout. Lunch is included on Day 5.

ACCOMMODATION All hotels chosen are three star to five star and are the best available in the area.

GROUP SIZE This is a private tour based on your own group size.

GRATUITIES Tipping is not included on the tour and is at your discretion.

TRAVEL TIPS Bogota is situated 8500 feet above sea level, therefore, on arrival you may need a rest to acclimatise.