Luxury Colombia Itinerary

Colombia: Culture, Community and Gastronomy

Our Colombia itinerary opens up this divine country with rich history, stunning natural scenery and some of the continent’s friendliest, most sophisticated people, as well as every ecosystem imaginable. From the Amazon rainforest and Caribbean Islands to the unimaginably green coffee triangle and snowcapped mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta – Perhaps it’s these incredible contrasts that prompted Colombians to nickname their country Locombia – ‘the mad country’.  

South America’s fourth largest city is certainly one of its most modern and cosmopolitan, which you’ll discover on a guided-walking tour visiting one of Bogota’s fantastic art, archaeology and anthropology museums. Get inside Bogota’s art scene with a local art curator and visit its most renowned contemporary galleries, meeting artists and learning about the thriving local art scene. 

Nearly unchanged for over 300 years, you’ll discover Barichara ‘s beautiful artisanal heritage, visiting the ateliers and workshops of local artisans and artists and indulge in a regional tasting tour. You’ll also trek along ancient paths built by the indigenous people of Guane and see a traditional coffee hacienda before visiting the owners to enjoy coffee and snacks in their beautiful garden.  

Tayrona National Park covers 15,00 hectares of land and coastline, including part of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range. Here you’ll visit the Tayronaka ruins, take an expedition on the Don Diego River and engage with the Kogui Indigenous Community, learning about their unique traditions, beliefs and connection with nature. 

On to Cartagena on the Caribbean Coast, where a guide will walk you through town, revealing its history, people and culture. You’ll also sample and learn of the exotic local fruits, chocolate and rums. Finally, speed through the Bay of Cartagena to the crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands, where you can relax, sunbathe and enjoy a swim or snorkel before a delicious lunch washed down with Colombian coffee. Now it’s time to contemplate whether this is Colombia, or Locombia… 

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KEY FACTS
PEAK TIME

June - September

PRICE

From GBP £8,560 USD $10,186 pp excl. flights

IDEAL LENGTH

12 days

FLIGHT TIME

11 hours from London
5 hours 30 mins from NYC

CURRENCY

Colombian Peso or US dollars

LANGUAGE

Spanish

Where you'll go

Bogota

Barichara

Tayrona National Park

Cartagena

When to go

  • J
  • F
  • M
  • A
  • M
  • J
  • J
  • A
  • S
  • O
  • N
  • D
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit

CELEBRATE THIS

Colombia is the only country in South America that has a coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

The itinerary

History, Politics + Street Art Tour with Museum Visit

Walk through the winding streets of La Candelaria, Bogota’s historic district, and the surrounding neighbourhoods, with your guide revealing fascinating stories behind the cobblestone streets, houses, plazas and cathedrals of the neighbourhoods. Passing by government buildings, the iconic Plaza Bolivar, and city centre’s impactful street art, you’ll gain insight into Colombia’s difficult past and the recent political and economic revival as told through the stories of the murals.

Tasting Barichara

Try our top-pick of Barichara’s traditional food with a local host and discover an infinite variety of flavours. Step off the tourist trail and meet friendly locals. Your host will give you interesting facts about Santander’s cuisine and how the culture has influenced food over time.

Don Diego River Expedition

After being met at your hotel and driven to the Tayronaka ruins, you’ll take a short hike, and embark down the river paddle boarding, kayaking, or tubing all the way down to the ocean. Along the way enjoy views of the jungle, exotic birds, howler monkeys and small caimans which are harmless and very shy! Finally, enjoy a light picnic lunch with views of the sea before heading back to the hotel.

Kogui Indigenous Community Visit

After being picked up and driven to the outskirts of an indigenous reserve, enjoy a walk to a Kogui village where Kogui families from the Sierra Nevada mountains gather to trade crops. Koguis have successfully preserved their way of life and culture through minimal contact with civilisation and here you’ll learn about their unique traditions, beliefs and connection with nature. As part of every visit, you’ll have the opportunity to make a contribution to the community, and option to enjoy a swim in a nearby river.

Stories and People of El Centro

Wander the streets of Cartagena’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside your fascinating expert guide who will provide in-depth historical context and captivating stories of the city’s people and culture

Getaway to the Rosario Islands

A speed boat will take you through the Bay of Cartagena to the crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands, surrounded by coral reefs and pristine beaches they’re the perfect spot for snorkelling and swimming. Relax, sunbathe and enjoy a swim before a delicious lunch of freshly caught fried fish with coconut rice, plantains and salad, followed by dessert and Colombian coffee.

The itinerary

Accommodation

Where to stay

Nothing but the best. On this suggested Colombia itinerary these are our handpicked, tried-and-tested choices.

Four Seasons Casa Medina, Bogota

Hotel Casa Medina was originally built in 1945 in a style that elegantly combined Spanish and French architecture.

In 1985 it was declared a national monument and its wrought iron railings, stone walls and pillars, and hand carved wood ceilings underwent a careful restoration. It is in the new commercial and financial district of Bogota, and boasts 62 classically designed, comfortable rooms, as well as a restaurant, gym and business centre.

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Casa Barichara, Barichara

With only 6 rooms, each of them unique, this is a boutique property full of charm and character.

There is a small pool, wonderful view, lots of birds and gorgeous gardens to make your stay both relaxing and special. A particular highlight of this hotel is enjoying breakfast on the lovely, quiet terrace.

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Cayena Beach, Tayrona

This lovely villa-style hotel, set on a beautiful stretch of coastline where the Caribbean Ocean meets with snow-capped mountains, is a 15-minute drive from Tayrona National Park.

Just a few steps from the beach, the property is surrounded by coconut palms, lush jungles and high peaks that are home to monkeys, caimans, toucans and many birds and butterflies. The hotel also boasts a stunning pool, as well as a bar, restaurant and yoga platform.

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Casa Pestagua, Cartagena

In the centre of Cartagena lies Casa Pestagua. Known as ‘the most beautiful house in Cartagena’, it was named after its rich and powerful aristocratic owner in the 17th century, the Count of Pestagua.

It has been decorated with its heritage in mind and infuses the old with the new so as to reflect the grandeur of previous owners. Located just a few yards from Plaza Santa Domingo within the centre of the walled city, and with only 16 rooms, you will feel like a Lord in the Counts mansion.

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Our tailor-made journeys include:

  • A dedicated Destination Expert who will curate your itinerary from scratch, tailoring it to your preferences + interests
  • Private + extraordinary under-the-radar experiences
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  • Private international airport transfers in destination
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