Spirit of Colombia

Fly to Colombia's vibrant capital, Bogota, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore or take some time to relax.

The beating heart of Colombia, Bogota is an engaging and enchanting place to explore. Begin at Paloquemao market, where you'll get to taste some of the local produce, before heading to the historic centre, La Candelaria, to admire the grand colonial architecture and impressive cathedral. Visit the Botero and Gold museums then enjoy some local delicacies for lunch. Ride the cable car up to the mountaintop Santuario de Monserrate, where you will enjoy spectacular views over the city.

Just outside Bogota is one of Colombia's most unusual attractions; the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira. Built 200 metres below ground in a former salt mine and beautifully illuminated, this cavernous space is considered an outstanding example of modern Colombian architecture. Return to Bogota and catch your flight to Pereira.

Head into the Central Mountains and the beautiful landscapes of the Valle de Cocora. Take an easy hike through a wax palm forest to discover the diverse range of flora and fauna that calls it home, including the Quindío wax palm, Colombia's national tree. Spend the afternoon in the traditional towns of Salento and Filandia, both full of colourful colonial architecture and handicraft shops.

Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Pereira is part of the Colombia's 'Coffee Axis' and the UNESCO-listed 'Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia'. Spend the morning out exploring coffee estates and pay a visit to a typical hacienda where you'll enjoy an informative tour and tasting session, guided by a master taster. Fly to Medellín and transfer to your hotel in this hillside city.

Discover the inspiring transformation of Medellín, Colombia’s vibrant “City of Eternal Spring”. Explore Plaza Botero, home to Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures, stroll through the historic heart of the city, and visit innovative public spaces that reflect Medellín’s modern spirit. Travel by the city’s pioneering Metrocable to Comuna 13, once one of Medellín’s most troubled neighbourhoods and now renowned for its colourful street art, and inspiring story of regeneration, with breathtaking views across the city.

Travel out of Medellin to explore La Piedra del Peñol, a towering rock monolith that was once worshipped by the local indigenous community. The 700-step climb to the top is optional, but those who do it will be rewarded with views across a huge reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam built in the 1970s. Continue to the town of Guatape where you’ll wander the streets lined with vividly coloured buildings, before returning to Medellin.

Fly to the Caribbean city of Santa Marta, situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains and founded in 1525, making it one of South America’s oldest cities. You’ll explore the beautiful colonial district before heading out of the city to the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the bays of Rodadero and the fishing village of Taganga.

Explore the exotic coastline of the Tayrona National Park today, winding through tropical forest before arriving at the ‘Sea of the Seven Waves’, a natural viewpoint from which to enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Walk a short way along a stretch of golden sand to reach the boat which will take you over to Playa Cristal, a beach of extraordinary beauty where you can take a refreshing dip.

Travel by road this morning from Santa Marta to the Caribbean port of Cartagena. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s historic centre and tastiest eats on a street food tour. Sample regional favourites from freshly made arepas and tropical fruits to refreshing coconut water and delicious ceviche, discovering the rich flavours and vibrant culture of Colombia's Caribbean coast.

This morning, your city tour of Cartagena will start with panoramic views over the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Continue to San Felipe Fortress and the Convent and Church of San Pedro Claver in the Ciudad Vieja (old city). Browse the wares of the artisan centre housed in the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena.

Escape to the idyllic Rosario Islands, a tropical archipelago just off Cartagena's coast known. Take a shared boat across the sparkling Caribbean before enjoying free time to relax on white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters or opt to snorkel among colourful marine life, before returning to Cartagena.

Fly from Cartagena to the UK, arriving home the following day.