Colombia Highlights

Visit the nearby fossil museum “El Fossil”, home to a fossilised kronosaurus of more than 120-million years old before returning to Bogota. Fly to Pereira for a three night stay in Colombia's coffee triangle. The world’s third largest producer of coffee, Colombia's finest is found here; in mineral rich volcanic soils with the help of a pleasant climate and slight altitude, the conditions are ideal for coffee bean cultivation.

Today you are collected to explore the stunning Cocora Valley. Part of the Los Nevados National Park, you come across the “Quindian wax palm”, the national tree of Colombia that can reach a staggering height of 60m. A great number of species of birds live in the area, in particular hummingbirds and the endangered orejíamarillo (palm parrot). Within the valley, head into the cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna, and follow a path leading you through the tallest wax palms in the world. In the afternoon, visit the traditional town of Salento passing the colourful balconies, and various handicraft shops as well as the Cocora viewpoint before you head back to your accommodation.

Today is an opportunity visit a local coffee plantation to see first-hand the production process. From the farm, enjoy picturesque views of the coffee region’s famous rolling emerald green hills and of course enjoy a coffee tasting experience. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.

Today you fly from the Coffee Region the short distance to Medellin. Medellin is Colombia’s second most important city and set amongst the mountainous Antioquia province. The now bustling, modern city has a range of excellent museums and state of the art transport systems including a tram system and cable car to a spectacular viewpoint above the city centre.

Medellin is a world leading example of social transformation. Shrugging off its former edgy image as one of the most dangerous cities in the world, it is now a cultural and artistic hub. Today you are taken for a tour to see the the redevelopment first riding the cable car, a vital part of the public transport system constructed to connect the outer neighbourhoods with the centre and a chance to witness examples of the social transformation that has taken place in the last few years within the city. Located some 7km from the city centre, visit the Comuna 13 (Barrio San Javier), once one of the city's most dangerous neighbourhoods, and its outdoor electric escalators. This area is known to be one of the places that best represent the social transformation and where fantastic street art and youth social projects have helped to turn the community around. Finally, you return to the centre of Medellín to visit the Plaza de Botero to see the 23 sculptures by the famous local artist Fernando Botero.

You today fly from Medellin to the Northern Caribbean Coastal city of Santa Marta, where you then are driven along the coast to the Tayrona National Park. Home to stunning stretches of gold sandy beaches, backed by thick rainforest and coconut palms; the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is the backdrop here – the world’s highest coastal mountain range. Visitors to the park can experience great hiking opportunities, wildlife spotting or choose to simply unwind on its beaches. Numerous paths and trials link the many wild beaches and bays along the coast.

Today is a full day for you to explore Colombia’s Caribbean coastline independently in around the Tayrona National park. You may choose to hike one of the pathways through the jungle, relax on one of the nearby beaches or take the time to enjoy realigning in a hammock overlooking the sea.

Today you are collected transfer by road along the northern Caribbean Coast to the city of Cartagena. Protected by its ramparts and fortifications, Cartagena is undoubtedly one of Latin America’s most beautiful cities. The interior of the historic centre has been preserved as a living museum, and the once crumbling colonial mansions have been restored to their former grandeur, have been painted joyful Caribbean colours, and are overflowing with hot pink bougainvillea.

On a guided tour, start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monastery and La Popa Church, explore the San Felipe Fortress, visit some of the city’s most ornate churches, its colonial treasures within the historic centre and visit the handicraft markets of the Bovedas, located in the archways of the city walls, once used as prison. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.

Today is a full day at leisure to explore more of Cartagena independently, and a chance to enjoy the excellent range of restaurants and cafes or explore some of the surrounding beaches and islands off the coast.

You have a final day in Cartagena until are collected and driven to the airport to fly back to the UK via Bogota.