Itinerary - Exclusive Colombia: hidden gem of Latin America

Roundtrip flights are not included in the package, so you can choose from where and when you want to fly. The check-in and welcome meeting will be at the hotel in Bogota. Make your way there and meet the rest of your group and let's start this epic adventure!

This morning, we waste no time as we embark on a journey to a truly remarkable destination. After a short flight from Bogota, we touch down in Medellin, famously known as the City of Eternal Spring. Nestled within a narrow valley, Medellin exudes an infectious energy that envelops you the moment you step onto its vibrant streets.

Once considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world, it has emerged as an innovative and inviting metropolis, characterized by its lush parks and the warm hospitality of its residents.

Our journey into the heart of Medellin's metamorphosis begins with a tour of La Comuna 13. This mountainside neighborhood, once synonymous with drug cartel violence, has undergone a profound revitalization. Thanks to numerous community initiatives and ingenious projects such as outdoor escalators, La Comuna 13 has blossomed into one of the city's most vibrant and dynamic areas.

As we ride the escalators, marvel at the captivating street art, and delve into Medellin's past and present alongside a knowledgeable local guide, we'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's resilience and the spirit of its people. It's a journey of discovery and transformation—one that promises to leave a lasting impression on our hearts and minds.

Today, we bid farewell to the bustling city and embark on a delightful journey into the heart of Colombia's coffee country. As we traverse the picturesque landscapes of Antioquia, the anticipation builds—it's coffee time!

Our destination? A locally owned traditional coffee plantation nestled amidst the lush hillsides. Here, a dedicated farmer and his family cultivate their own brand of coffee, and we're invited to witness the entire journey from plant to cup. We'll meander through the verdant fields, learning about the intricacies of coffee cultivation and harvesting, before witnessing a demonstration of the art of coffee preparation. Get those notebooks ready—it's a crash course in coffee-making you won't want to miss!

After a satisfying traditional lunch amidst the tranquil countryside, we'll make a stop in Santa Fe de Antioquia, one of Latin America's oldest colonial cities. Stepping back in time, we'll wander through cobblestone streets lined with charming colonial architecture, soaking in the rich history and culture of this storied town.

Returning to Medellin, the evening is yours to explore the city at your leisure. And what better way to cap off our day of adventure than by indulging in some of Colombia's finest street food delights? From cheese-filled buñuelos to savoury chicken pastel accompanied by homemade ají hot sauce—prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other. Buen provecho!

With another day ahead in Medellin, the possibilities are endless. Take a ride on the Metrocable for breathtaking views of the city and Andean peaks, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Ciudad del Rio—a vibrant city park popular among locals.

For those craving culture, Medellin offers trendy boutiques and fascinating museums like the Museo Casa de La Memoria, which delves into Colombia's conflict history.

Alternatively, embark on a day trip to Guatape, renowned as Colombia's most colorful town. Explore its charming streets before ascending El Peñón de Guatapé—a national monument boasting panoramic views after a climb of 659 steps.

With our time in Medellin coming to a close, let's seize the day and create lasting memories!

After a hearty breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to the vibrant city of Medellin as we board a flight to Santa Marta, nestled on Colombia's stunning Caribbean coast. A short transfer brings us to our home base for the next three days: a hotel on the outskirts of Tayrona National Park.

With the excitement of our adventures over the past few days, today calls for a slower pace. Whether you choose to soak up the sun, dive into that book you've been meaning to read, or simply unwind with a cocktail by the pool, the day is yours to relax and savour the tranquil surroundings. After all the exploring, it's time to kick back and enjoy a well-deserved break—we've certainly earned it!

With our energy replenished, we're ready to fully immerse ourselves in the idyllic haven that is Tayrona National Park. This gem combines lush jungles, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, creating a paradise on earth.

Today's highlight? Embarking on one of Colombia's most spectacular hikes—from Cañaveral to El Cabo San Juan. Along the way, we'll traverse diverse landscapes, from dense jungles to indigenous villages and secluded coves. Keep your eyes peeled for playful monkeys and colourful lizards as we make our way to the breathtaking meeting point of two postcard-perfect beaches. After a refreshing dip in the sea, it's time to unwind on the soft white sands with a fresh coconut in hand.

Tomorrow offers more opportunities to explore the park, whether it's additional hikes and wildlife spotting or a leisurely day by the pool. For those seeking a unique experience, a visit to Taironaka provides insight into local indigenous communities, while tubing on the Don Diego River promises thrills and spills amidst stunning natural scenery. With so much to discover, every moment in Tayrona promises adventure and wonder.

Leaving the enchanting beauty of Tayrona behind, we're off to discover another gem: Cartagena de Indias. This Caribbean jewel boasts one of the best-preserved historic centers in South America, earning its spot as a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its vibrant culture, lively nightlife, and pristine beaches nearby, Cartagena promises the perfect finale to our Colombian adventure.

But first, we embark on our longest road journey of the trip, a scenic five-hour transfer with a pit stop for lunch in Barranquilla—the birthplace of pop sensation Shakira and Colombia's fourth-largest city. Once we arrive in Cartagena, the rest of the afternoon and evening are ours to explore our new home for the next three nights.

Cartagena is a city to be felt as much as seen, so we'll dive into its unique atmosphere by wandering through the historic centre's labyrinth of cobbled streets, admiring impressive churches, and marvelling at the kaleidoscope of colourful houses. As night falls, we'll venture into Getsemani, Cartagena's hippest neighbourhood, brimming with trendy restaurants and bars buzzing until the early hours. While tonight promises excitement, tomorrow holds even more adventures as we delve deeper into this vibrant city. Are we ready to celebrate with the locals? You bet we are!

With a free morning ahead, the options are endless. Whether we choose to luxuriate in the comforts of our hotel, further explore the city's charms, hunt for souvenirs, or unwind on one of the nearby beaches, one thing's for certain—we'll take it slow and savour every moment, for we're in the Caribbean, after all!

In the afternoon, our quest to delve deeper into the essence of Cartagena continues with a delightful surprise: a guided tour of the Getsemaní neighbourhood. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, we'll meander through its vibrant streets, steeped in both colonial history and contemporary culture. From the architectural remnants of its past to the colorful street art adorning its walls, we'll uncover the layers of Getsemaní's story, exploring its bustling commercial exchanges and diverse gastronomy.

As we engage with our guide, we'll deepen our understanding of Cartagena's rich history and vibrant culture. But the adventure doesn't end there! At the conclusion of our tour, we'll step into the spotlight for a salsa lesson—a chance to embrace the rhythm of this lively city and unleash our inner dancers. Remember, nobody's born a dancer, but together, we'll embark on this joyful journey and make memories to last a lifetime. Let's dance the day away with laughter and fun!

It's our last day in Cartagena, so let's make it special. We will no doubt have admired the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea since our flight from Medellin landed. Well, today is the day we can finally hit the open sea with a full-day boat trip to the beautiful Rosario Islands . We can load the boat with drinks and snacks and then set off to discover the 27 islands fringed with palm trees and white sand that make up this splendid archipelago. We can swim and snorkel, and since the whole area is a National Park, the marine life is spectacular. What a day!

We return to the facility to prepare for the evening; it's true, it's not our last evening together, but the setting of this city is so magical that we can't help but organise our goodbye dinner here!

Unfortunately, it's time to say goodbye to the Caribbean coast as we board our last domestic flight back to where it all began, Bogota. In the afternoon we will have time for a sightseeing tour. And what better way to see a city than from above? With a few euros you can go up by cable car to the summit of Cerro di Monserrate . The altitude is high and we will probably be breathless once we reach the top, but the view of the sprawling city in the middle of a deep valley will be truly thrilling. If you are not a fan of heights, then we can visit the most famous museum in Bogota, and one of the best in Latin America, the Gold Museum. Prepare to be dazzled!And as the sun sets on our final day, and on our Colombian adventure, we will spend this final evening making final memories with our new friends, thinking back to the experiences we shared as we raise a glass of Guaro. Thanks Colombia!

Time to go back home: see you again on your next WeRoad adventure!