Magical Colombia With Medellin

Included private sightseeing starts in a colorful MARKET in the heart of the city, where you will learn about traditional Colombian food. Continue walking through the well-preserved colonial part of the city, La Candelaria, before visits to the GOLD MUSEUM, housing one of the largest collections of Pre-Hispanic gold, and the BOTERO MUSEUM, featuring famous paintings from well-known artist Fernando Botero. Cap your day off with a FUNICULAR ride up to Mount Monserrate at 10,000 feet for expansive views of Bogota.

Today is free to explore the modern city of Bogota on your own. Alternatively, take an optional tour to Zipaquirá’s fascinating underground salt cathedral. More than 600 feet underground, you will find this monumental architectural masterpiece built inside a salt mine. Following the labyrinth of tunnels, you will find Stations of the Cross, angels, and the Madonna statue inside this unique underground cathedral. Today, it is still a popular pilgrimage site.

Board your flight for Pereira in the heart of the Coffee Triangle of Colombia, the third-largest producer of coffee in the world. After lunch in a typical restaurant, your Local Host takes you on a visit of a COFFEE FARM to learn about the process, from planting and roasting to tasting. Walk through lush plantations, uncover the secrets of the production process, and expand your palate with the help of local baristas who share the fine art of coffee tasting. Stay in a beautiful hacienda this evening.

Drive through the region of Quindío to Cocora Valley with your Local Host, where you will find Colombia’s national tree, the Palma de Cera—the highest palm tree in the world. Help preserve this protected species of tree through a small ritual that includes planting one of these very rare palm trees. Next, stop in Salento, a typical village of this region, where you have time to walk through the small but colorful streets. Continue to Filandia, another village boasting gorgeous views of the vast Andes mountain range.

Fly to Cartagena on the Caribbean Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of well-preserved colonial architecture. Upon arrival, your private guided TOUR includes a visit to the Monastery of LA POPA. Built on a hillside at the beginning of the 17th century, enjoy the panoramic views of the city, its beaches, and the bay. Next, tour SAN FELIPE FORT, built to protect the city from pirates as well as the British and French. Head into the walled colonial city and see the colorful streets and plazas of Old Cartagena. End the day with a tour of the SAN PEDRO CLAVER CONVENT, housing impressive pre-Columbian artifacts.

Today is free to explore on your own. Perhaps take an optional to see the old colonial city by horse carriage. Enjoy a ride, passing churches, squares, and old houses with balconies full of flowers.

Fly to Medellin, the second-largest and most progressive city in Colombia. Cradled in the the Aburra Valley, Medellin is one of the most beautiful in South America, and is dubbed the “City of Everlasting Spring” due to its mild, year-round climate. Upon arrival, you will be met by your Local Host.

Your included private sightseeing begins in the area of Santo Domingo Sabio, located between mountains. Ascend via CABLE CAR up the side of mountains and into the valley, taking in impressive views of the narrow streets full of colors and music. Learn about local culture as you reach the Biblioteca España, a unique structure that has become a symbol of the revitalization that has happened in the area. Next, visit Parque Berrio to see one of Fernando Botero’s most famous sculptures, La Gorda (The Fat Lady). Also visit the ANTIOQUIA MUSEUM that houses the largest collection of Botero’s works. End your day at the PAISA VILLAGE, a replica of the quaint villages of the region.

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.