Colombia's Colonial Charm

DAY 1. Arriva Bogota 

Arrive in Bogotá, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. In this city of contrasts, skyscrapers stand side by side with old single-story houses.

DAY 2. Bogota - La Candelaria 

Engage all of your senses during a morning visit to Paloquemao market. Then, discover the colonial quarter of La Candelaria, pausing at Plaza de Bolivar for photos of Congress Palace, the Cardinal’s Palace and the colonial church of El Sagrario. Join a local art expert to explore one of the world’s greatest collections of indigenous crafts at the Gold Museum. Next, learn about famed Colombian artist Fernando Botero at the Botero Museum. Afterward, ascend Monserrate for spectacular views and lunch. While here, visit the statue of the Fallen Christ, a famous site for pilgrimage. Gather this evening for cocktails and a festive welcome dinner.

DAY 3. Pareira - A Special Breed of Excitement

Fly to Pereira, located in Colombia’s best-known coffee production region, recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit a Paso Fino horse farm to learn about the art of training these magnificent animals. Later, enjoy a Chef’s Table demonstration featuring artisanal ice creams and other sweets made from freshly picked local fruits.

DAY 4. Salento - Cocora National Park

Drive to beautiful Salento, a typical paisa (coffee region) town known for its Bahareque architecture, and stop for a caffè latte demonstration at Café Jesús Martín. Enjoy a Colombian-style lunch, and then head into Cocora National Park by local Jeepao (Jeep parade) to see the wax palm, Colombia’s protected national tree.

DAY 5. Pereira - Heart of the Coffee Triangle

Visit an authentic working coffee plantation — the Hacienda San Alberto — to learn about the coffee culture and the production process, and then savor the aromatic brew at a tasting session.

DAYS 6-7. Medelin - "City of Eternal Spring

Fly to Medellín, a bustling “City of Eternal Spring” nestled in a narrow mountain valley. Learn the inspiring story of the vibrant Comuna 13, as local artists detail the creative outpouring that changed the face of this neighborhood. The following day, board a cable car for a high-flying panorama of the city. Next, see the magic behind the region’s iconic Festival of Flowers with a private tour of a family flower plantation. After lunch at a local restaurant, return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

DAY 8. Cartagena - Walk the Walled City

Board a morning flight to Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and set out on a gastronomic tour of the 500-year-old walled city. Escape the crowds and eat like a local as you walk the city, pausing to savor tastings at authentic eateries well off the beaten tourist track. Along the way, take in cultural perspectives from your local guide as you explore Cartagena’s less-frequented landmarks. Later, sip Champagne as you embark on a relaxing carriage ride.

DAY 9. Cartagena - Rum & Chocolate 

Explore the city’s historical monuments, beginning with San Felipe Fort. Next, visit Las Bóvedas, once a dungeon, now home to shops and boutiques. Continue on to the Palace of Inquisition. Once a notorious colonial office tasked with stamping out heresy, today the palace showcases historical artifacts. After lunch, sample an assortment of authentic Colombian rums and quality chocolates led by an international sommelier. Your evening is at leisure.

DAY 10. Cartagena - Caribbean Cocktail Cruise & Farewell

Meet a chef at a local restaurant and watch as a regional seafood dish is prepared for your lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Then, embark on a private sunset cocktail cruise of the bay that takes you to Club de Pesca and your farewell dinner.

DAY 11. Depart Cartagena

After breakfast, transfer to the airport and depart.