Hidden Colombia – PRIVATE TOUR ONLY

This morning after breakfast, you will set out to explore the Paloquemao Markets. This buzzing market has over 700 vendors and is a labyrinth of stalls heaving with a vast array of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and one of Colombia’s biggest exports, flowers. Here you will witness the locals grabbing a bargain and you will also have the chance to taste some exotic Colombian fruits.

Continue to La Candelaria, the oldest and considered the heart and soul of Bogota. Its main square, Plaza Bolivar is the focal point of the city. Surrounding the square are several Colonial and Republican-style buildings including the Palace of Justice, the Colombian Congress, the Mayor’s office and the Primary Cathedral of Bogota. A statue of Simon Bolivar (the founder of Colombian independence) stands proudly in the plaza’s centre and was the first public monument erected in the city. As well as the main sites, your guide will lead you along the streets and lanes away from the main square, explaining the history of Bogota but also the intricacies of current Colombian culture and daily life. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a coffee or cold drink in one of the many cafes.

Visit the Gold Museum in the northeast corner of the Parque Santander, within the premises of the Banco de la Republica (the state-run central bank). It is home to one of the finest collections of pre-Hispanic gold in the world, with more than 35,000 pieces in the collection. Enjoy lunch at the museum in a private salon specially prepared for you.

Next you will have the opportunity to enjoy some of Colombia’s street art and even get involved yourself! Colombia is throwing off its negative reputation with a cultural and artistic renaissance to match any of its South American neighbours. Nowhere is this more evident than in the street art which adorns Bogotá’s walls. With incredibly relaxed laws involving graffiti, the city is becoming a hotbed of global talent with home-grown and world-renowned artists congregating here to practice their art. Not only will you be able to admire the creativity of the capital’s graffiti artists, you will also be able to roll up your sleeves and create your very own masterpiece. (B,L)

Overnight – Hotel BH Bicentenario or similar

Art and creativity run deep throughout Latin America, and Colombia is no exception. The region’s passion and energy are reflected in its artistic expression, with Colombia currently undergoing a vibrant artistic renaissance. Its creative roots, however, reach back thousands of years – from ancient rock art in Chiribiquete National Park, believed to be over 5,000 years old, to the celebrated works of masters such as Caballero and Botero. Today, a new generation of artists, sculptors and visionaries is shaping the country’s dynamic contemporary art scene.

While artistic talent can be found across Colombia, Bogotá remains the centre of creative innovation. The capital hosts three major annual art fairs, more than thirty galleries, five art museums and several auction houses, helping launch the careers of countless Latin American artists.

The city’s galleries vary from public and semi-private spaces to exclusive contemporary venues, each offering a unique perspective on modern Colombian art. La Cometa, one of the most prominent galleries since its founding in the mid-1980s, has become an influential platform for artistic dialogue and emerging talent. Its project-based approach encourages meaningful connections between visitors, artists and artworks through diverse, thought-provoking exhibitions.

Your visit today offers the opportunity not only to admire striking contemporary pieces but also to engage with knowledgeable gallery staff who can share insight into featured artists and Colombia’s ever-evolving creative landscape. This experience reveals a nation rich in imagination, cultural depth and expressive storytelling – brought to life through colour, texture and form. (B,L)

Overnight – Hotel BH Bicentenario or similar

This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Pitalito (approx. 1.5hrs).  Upon arrival into Pitalito, transfer to San Agustin.

With rolling green hills, sub-tropical flowers, and freshwater streams, San Agustin is full of charm and offers some of Colombia’s finest rural landscapes. It is also home to a UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park, made up of three properties covering over 100ha. This includes a large complex of pre-Columbian megalithic monuments, burial mounds, terraces, funerary structures, stone statuary and the Fuente de Lavapatas site, a religious monument carved into the stone bed of a stream. Dating from 3300 BC, almost nothing is known about the exact history of the site or its primary uses, though it is believed that the stone carvings could be in memory of the dead, probably the elders or chiefs of the region. Why the culture that made these sculptures disappeared is unknown, even more amazing is that all the statues have remained in such perfect condition.

Enjoy a late three-course lunch today in a local restaurant (subject to flight schedule). The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. (B,L)

Overnight – Monasterio de San Agustín or similar

Flight details (subject to change) – 9R 8902, Departs Bogata at 11:25, Arrives Pitalito at 12:46

This morning after breakfast you will visit the Ceremonial Spring of Lavapatas, its sculpture being the largest of the Augustinian cultures and a monument of magical and religious character. A complex maze of canals and pools carved into the stone bed of the creek shows depictions of snakes, lizards, salamanders, iguanas, chameleons, frogs, and turtles mixed with faces and human forms. It is believed that this was a sacred site dedicated to religious ceremonies and ritual baths. The area is also home to many native and endemic species of flora and fauna.

Continue to the Forest of Sculptures. Surrounded by mountains, this area is a quiet sanctuary where you can wander along the jungle path past dozens of statues, including unusual beings with jaguar-like features.

You will also visit the small village of Obando where you will explore carefully restored ancient underground tombs, and the Archaeological Museum where you can learn about Augustinian culture. The museum houses significant samples of stone tools, ancient pottery, funeral urns, and gold objects related to the different societies that inhabited the region.

Your final visit today will be the Magdalena River Strait. Originating in the Andes, the Magdalena River flows for over 1500km, almost entirely crossing the length of Colombia. It is here that the river is at its narrowest, at less than two metres wide, with water so clear you can see the sandy riverbed only a few feet below the surface. (B,L)

Overnight – Monasterio de San Agustín or similar

Today you will have a full day to explore the rugged beauty, mountains, and valleys of San Agustín. Alto de los Ídolos & Alto de las Piedras are two important archaeological parks located in Isnos, a 30-minute drive from the main town of San Agustín. There are nearly 40 statues in these two places. In Alto de los Ídolos, you will be able to see the biggest figure found in the area, standing at an approximate height of 6m.  In Alto de las Piedras, there are tombs, some of which were specially designed for children and are unique to this site.

After lunch, you will head out to a local Trapiche, where a Colombian staple food, Panela, is produced. This sugarcane-based natural product is key to understanding Colombians’ sweet tooth and forms the backbone of many dishes and drinks. You will observe the process of how this natural sweetener is made, from the pressing machines that squeeze out every drop of liquid from the raw cane to the huge steaming vats of thick, dark toffee-coloured goo that solidifies into blocks to be sold in local markets. It’s a raw and unique experience to witness Colombian manufacturing as it has been for generations. You will, of course, have a chance to sample the sweet results of the afternoon’s activity. (B,L)

Overnight – Monasterio de San Agustín or similar

This morning, depart San Agustín and drive to Neiva’s Benito Salas Airport for your flights via Bogotá to Armenia, gateway to Colombia’s famed coffee triangle.

On arrival, transfer to the colourful town of Salento in the department of Quindío. Nestled amid rolling green hills, Salento is all whitewashed houses, brightly painted balconies and cobbled streets – a postcard-perfect introduction to coffee country.

The remainder of the day is free to visit and explore the town, sample local coffee or simply soak up the laid-back pace of rural life. (B)

Overnight – Hotel Salento Real or similar
Suggested Flight: AC2949, Departure 12:20, Arrival: 13:20. From Bogota to Armenia Flight: AV4819, Departure: 17:13, Arrival: 18:13.

Today offers a full-day immersion into the charm, culture and natural beauty of Colombia’s iconic Coffee Region. Your journey weaves through traditional rural towns and the spectacular landscapes of the Cocora Valley – capturing the true spirit of this UNESCO-listed area.

Begin in Filandia, a peaceful village where coffee production and rural life shape the rhythm of the day. Its main square retains a quaint, old-world charm, with the mayor’s office and police station sitting alongside traditional barber shops and hardware stores. Strolling through Filandia’s colourful colonial streets and enjoying freshly ground coffee in a local café feels like stepping back in time to Colombia’s pastoral past.

Continue to Salento, one of the region’s most picturesque towns. Dating back to the 1840s, Salento is instantly recognisable for its brightly painted houses, flower-laden balconies and cobbled lanes. Nestled against a backdrop of distant snow-capped peaks, the town beautifully blends traditional Andean character with modern touches – boutique shops, artisan markets and stylish coffee bars all celebrate the area’s rich heritage.

In the afternoon, travel into the breathtaking Cocora Valley, part of Los Nevados National Park. This striking landscape is home to Colombia’s national tree, the towering wax palm – the tallest palm in the world, reaching heights of up to 60 metres. Often shrouded in mist, the valley’s lush, emerald hills make it a paradise for nature lovers. Enjoy a short, guided walk among cloud forests alive with birdsong and keep watch for unique species, including the endangered yellow-eared parrot.

This day brings together the very best of the Coffee Region—nature, culture and tradition – offering an unforgettable insight into one of Colombia’s most beautiful and beloved landscapes. (B,L)

Overnight – Salento Real or similar

This full-day experience offers an authentic look into the flavours, traditions and everyday life of Colombia’s Coffee Country. In the rural community of Bruselas, surrounded by gently rolling farmland, you’ll gain insight into the region’s strong connection to its land and produce.

The day begins with an interactive cooking class led by a regional chef in a local kitchen or countryside restaurant. Using fresh, traditional ingredients such as plantains, corn, yucca and regional herbs, you’ll prepare a classic Andean dish that reflects the area’s culinary heritage. As you cook, the chef shares the cultural and historical background of each ingredient, showing how Colombia’s varied landscapes and communities have shaped the country’s food culture. The class ends with a relaxed shared meal, offering a welcoming and down-to-earth introduction to local cuisine.

After lunch, continue to a working coffee farm to learn about Colombia’s most recognised export. Walking through the plantation, you’ll follow the entire coffee-making process – from planting and picking to drying and roasting. Local growers explain the techniques passed down through generations and the pride they take in their craft. Seeing the care that goes into each stage of production offers a deeper appreciation for the work behind every cup.

The day concludes with a tasting of freshly brewed coffee, enjoyed while looking out over the farm’s surrounding landscape. It’s a simple and genuine way to understand the connection between flavour, culture and daily life in Colombia’s coffee-growing heartland. (B,L)

Overnight – Salento Real or similar

This morning you will be transferred from your hotel to Matecaña Airport for your flight to Medellín. Board your domestic flight from Pereira to Medellín

Forget everything you have heard about Medellin, as it is probably old news. It was the headquarters of one of the country’s most notorious drug cartels, but what the international media forgot to report was the city’s remarkable turnaround. Medellin is the second largest city in Colombia and is regarded as one of the most important in business, politics, fashion, and nightlife! For years, Medellin had a tarnished reputation but has now risen above this “Mala Fama” (bad reputation) and is now one of the most exciting cities in South America. Its growth over the past ten years has been impressive, and the advance in the security situation has been such that Medellin is now regarded as one of the safest cities in South America. Medellin is famous for its “Feria de las Flores,” which happens every August for a week. The Feria is a carnival atmosphere with processions of flower growers, music, dance, and the arts.

Medellin is also the hometown of Fernando Botero, probably Colombia’s most recognised artist to date. His oversized depictions of Colombian life, people, and world issues are exhibited throughout the country, most notably in the Botero Museum in Bogota and Medellin’s own Museo de Antioquia and his sculptures in the neighbouring Parque Berrio. Medellin is also famous for its metro and “Metro Cable” or cable car, a remarkable piece of engineering, a great tourist attraction, and a remarkable way the local government opened up and regenerated a previously underdeveloped part of the city.

Medellin is vibrant, contemporary, and well worth a visit for its vast selection of fine restaurants, bars, and, if nothing else, its people. The Paisa, a person from this region, is well known for his or her sense of pride and also the way they look. To sit at a coffee shop or bar and watch the people of Medellin walk by can easily take up a morning! Medellin is rapidly becoming a must on any Colombian itinerary.

On arrival at José María Córdova Airport, you’ll be met by your bilingual guide and transferred privately to your hotel to settle in for the evening. (B)

Overnight – Hotel Park 10 or similar
Flight details (subject to change) – LA4337 – departs Armenia 13:48. Arrives Medellin 14:29

Today’s full-day tour introduces you to some of Medellín’s most meaningful urban and cultural spaces.

Your day begins at the Medellín Botanical Garden, a 14-hectare green sanctuary home to more than 4,500 species of plants and trees. Stroll through themed gardens, quiet pathways and small lakes, and see the impressive Orchideorama, an architecturally striking wooden structure designed to protect hundreds of orchids.

Continue to the Botero Sculpture Park, an open-air plaza featuring 23 large bronze sculptures donated by Fernando Botero. These whimsical yet expressive pieces offer a fascinating insight into Colombian life and identity.

In the afternoon, visit Comuna 13, once one of Medellín’s most marginalised areas and now a living example of social transformation through art and community action. Wander through steep, mural-lined streets; learn about the neighbourhood’s past and present; and ride the outdoor escalators and cable car that have become essential elements of the area’s revitalisation. Colourful street art, music and local stories bring the district’s resilience and creativity to life.

This experience provides a meaningful look at Medellín’s ongoing evolution – where nature, art and community come together to reshape the city’s identity. (B,L)

Overnight – Park Ten or similar

This morning, enjoy a half-day visit to Santa Helena village, a community known for its rich flower-growing traditions. Explore a local flower farm, meet the growers and take part in an interactive workshop where you’ll create your own silleta floral display. Learn how these iconic arrangements are made for Medellín’s annual Flower Festival and understand their cultural significance.

In the afternoon, transfer from your hotel to José María Córdova Airport for your flight to Cartagena.

On arrival at Rafael Núñez Airport, meet your bilingual guide and transfer privately to your hotel.

Later in the day, enjoy a 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour in Cartagena, exploring key landmarks inside the historic walled city. This relaxed introductory tour highlights Cartagena’s colonial heritage, cultural influences and daily life. (B)

Overnight – Bantu Hotel or similar

Flight details (subject to change) – AV9386 – Departs Medellín 1637hrs,  Arrives Cartagena de Indias 1745hrs.

Today offers a full immersion into the flavours, traditions and lively spirit of Cartagena’s Caribbean culture. This hands-on experience blends food, music and storytelling, giving you a genuine taste of daily life on Colombia’s northern coast.

Your day begins at Bazurto Market, one of Cartagena’s busiest local markets and a central part of community life. With an expert guide, make your way through colourful stalls filled with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, herbs, vegetables and everyday household goods. This is an opportunity to see how locals shop, cook and interact as part of their daily routine.

From the market, continue to a private kitchen or colonial home for an interactive coastal cooking class. Under the guidance of a local chef, prepare traditional dishes using the fresh ingredients selected earlier. As you cook, you’ll learn about the cultural influences – African, Indigenous, and

European – that have shaped the region’s cuisine. The class concludes with a relaxed, shared lunch.

In the afternoon, enjoy a rum and chocolate tasting, pairing Colombian rums with locally produced artisanal chocolates. Your host will explain the characteristics of each rum, the cacao profiles and how the flavours complement one another.

The day ends with a Caribbean rhythms dance class, where a local instructor introduces you to popular regional styles such as champeta and salsa. This light-hearted session focuses on fun, movement and cultural connection – no dance experience required.

This full-day experience brings together the tastes, rhythms and warmth that define Cartagena, offering an authentic look into the city’s vibrant coastal identity. (B,L)

Overnight – Hotel 3 Banderas or similar

Experience life in a local fishing community and explore the Mangroves by canoe. The fishing village of La Boquilla is located 30 minutes east of Cartagena in an area of mangrove swamps. Many of the villagers are of African descent and on arrival there will be a performance of dance, and a refreshment of fresh green coconut milk will be served.

The Cueva Del Manglar is the Spanish name given to this protected ecosystem, which is rich in birdlife, in keeping with Colombia’s reputation as one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet. You may spot Kingfisher, White Heron, and Pelicans during your visit. As part of this experience, you will take a mangrove ecosystem canoe ride paddled by local fishermen. This serene mode of transport allows you to navigate the shallow waters through the “tunnels” naturally created by the Mangrove trees. Along with birdlife, there is a wealth of flora and fauna to observe as you glide through the mangroves. You’ll also get to witness an artisanal fishing demonstration, gaining insight into the traditional fishing techniques passed down through generations.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Montesacro Restaurant, an atmospheric venue just a short stroll away, where Caribbean-inspired seafood dishes meet international gourmet touches. The meal includes a three-course dinner and one non-alcoholic drink.

Continue exploring Cartagena by night, as the city offers a vibrant, rhythmic atmosphere after sunset. A relaxed stroll through the illuminated colonial streets introduces the shift from day to night, followed by a stop at an outdoor cocktail lounge for a refreshing Caribbean drink. A visit to a stylish rooftop bar provides sweeping views of the city skyline and the Caribbean Sea, ideal for watching the sunset. Dinner at a local restaurant showcases Cartagena’s culinary scene in charming courtyards or terraces overlooking the bay. The night can conclude at a lively salsa bar, such as Café Havana, where guests may watch or join locals dancing to live bands and enjoy the city’s energetic weekend atmosphere. (B, D -3-course meal & 1 non-alcoholic drink)

Overnight – Hotel 3 Banderas or similar

This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)