The magic of Colombia & the Galapagos Islands

Bogota

Tag 1: Arrival in Colombia

Arrive at El Dorado International Airport, touching down in the capital of Colombia! Founded in 1538, this is a city where past and present blend to offer a kaleidoscope of creative experiences, from museum exhibits to dance, theater and music, along with splendid cuisine. Known as the city of contrasts, Bogota ranges from shanty neighborhoods to high-rise apartments. Walking through its historic center is an intense experience, with streets that have witnessed the passing of centuries, and where every window, door, and corner has a story to tell.

Bogota

Tag 2: Get to know Bogota

Set out on a walking tour through Colombia's fascinating capital. In the historic center, sense the nostalgia epitomized in colonial buildings and palaces. Walk through streets where rustic bakeries are neighbors to bookshops, and office workers and students mingle at fruit and wafer stalls.

At the Plaza de Bolivar, come face-to-face with grand government buildings. Head towards la carrera Septima, Bogota's busy pedestrian zone, and reach the Iglesia San Francisco, the city's oldest church, as well as the renowned Gold Museum (closed on Mondays).

Complete the walking tour with a picturesque cable car ride up to Monserrate, Bogota's pilgrimage mountain (on Sundays, you could optionally take a taxi to Guadalupe Hill, at an elevation of 3,300m).

Bogota

Tag 3: Explore local markets & historic sites

Today, start by exploring the wonderful selection of produce at the local market in northern Bogota's Codabas. Then, join your guide for a 50km journey through the high plains north of Bogota, to visit a true masterpiece: the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá.

Little by little, multicolored phosphorescent light reveals the magical walls of this unique cathedral. Built by the local miners' own hands, it is a monumental architectural masterpiece that became a beautiful temple. Back outside, look for the sculpture of the Virgen de Guasá, Patron Saint of Miners, with a miner at her feet. In the Ceremonial Plaza, admire the cardinal cross, mining monument, bell tower, and beautiful fountains, all before returning to Bogota to spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Bogota - Salento

Tag 4: Dive into Colombia's coffee region

Colombia is famous for its coffee, but nowhere is the prized bean more important than in the departments of Caldas, Risaralda and Quindío, which together make up the heart of the Zona Cafetera, also known as the Eje Cafetero (Coffee Axis). Colombia's coffee landscape is of such cultural value, that it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011.

See jeeps packed with moustachioed coffee pickers, poncho-wearing senior citizens gossiping in cafes, and of course, endless cups of piping hot arabica coffee being produced. Many working fincas (coffee farms) welcome visitors onto their plantations to learn all about the coffee-growing process. It is particularly interesting to visit during the harvest periods (April to May and October to December), when the farms become a hive of activity.

Salento

Tag 5: Explore the Cocora Valley & Salento

Venture into the hills and lush landscape of the Cocora Valley, hailed as one of Colombia's most captivatingly beautiful destinations. Nestled in the heart of the coffee region, it boasts the country's national tree - the Quindio wax palm. Towering up to 60m tall, this tree makes quite a spectacle as it reaches up towards the clouds, and provides a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and horseback riding adventures.

Complete the day with a stop at the vibrant and traditional town of Salento - one of the most stunning coffee destinations in Colombia. Meander through the streets and main square, savor typical local fare for lunch, indulge in your quest for delectable coffee, and hunt for intricately-made handicraft souvenirs.

Salento

Tag 6: Learn the art of coffee at a traditional finca

Experience an immersive adventure at Finca El Ocaso, a charming and traditional coffee farm nestled in the picturesque hills of Salento. This captivating half-day tour is tailor-made for coffee enthusiasts eager to delve into the intricacies of coffee cultivation and production.

Begin the hands-on experience by picking coffee cherries, guided by skilled farmers. Gain a profound appreciation for the meticulous care involved in coffee cultivation, and follow the transformation of raw beans through washing, drying, and roasting to produce aromatic coffee.

Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, discover the factors that shape coffee flavors, from altitude and soil conditions to processing methods. The tour concludes with a tasting session led by a coffee connoisseur, giving you a newfound appreciation for your favorite brew.

Salento

Tag 7: Into the lush Quindio Cordillera

Amidst this land of coffee farms and dense flora, a surprising spirit of the past lives on through the enduring presence of Willys Jeeps, the nostalgic World War II jeeps that have become a stalwart of the region. These iconic vehicles serve as reliable, rugged transport, carrying a diverse array of cargo and passengers.

Embark on an exciting Willys Jeep tour, traversing the picturesque landscapes and visiting some of the coffee triangle's most beautiful villages: Rio Verde, Cordoba, Pijao, and Buenavista. This is a true break from the everyday, and a chance to embrace this special place and its timeless charm.

Salento - Cartagena

Tag 8: Welcome to Cartagena de Indias

Cartagena de Indias is a unique city in Colombia, known for bringing together the charm of colonial architecture, the excitement of a vibrant nightlife, fascinating cultural festivals, and lush landscapes - it's perfect for a true vacation experience. The city’s beaches beckon you to relax and unwind, enjoy the refreshing breeze, and take a dip in warm waters.

This fabulous destination holds many secrets within its walled city, on its balconies, and in the narrow stone walkways that inspired Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel García Márquez. After leaving Salento behind, you'll reach this city and check into your hotel, to spend the rest of the afternoon exploring its magic.

Cartagena

Tag 9: Tour Cartagena, the Crown Jewel of the Caribbean coast

Spend the day deep-diving into Cartagena, perhaps the most beautiful city in the Americas, and one of the most important ports in history and even today. It is full of tradition, enticing smells and flavors, and historic sites.

Start by visiting the San Felipe de Barajas Fort, the biggest military construction ever built by the Spanish in their colonies. On a one-hour tour, you'll get to appreciate this masterpiece of military architecture, and learn about the city's historic defences.

Continue with a visit to Cerro La Popa, an old Augustinian convent and the highest landmark in the city. The day draws to a close with a two-hour walking tour of the most beautiful squares, churches, and streets in the city center.

Cartagena

Tag 10: A world of fascinating mangroves

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the enchanting Tesca wetlands, nestled on the northeastern outskirts of Cartagena. This very special ecosystem is a natural labyrinth of canals, perfect for exploring its fascinating flora and fauna.

Arrive at the dock in La Boquilla, where a serving of freshly-extracted coconut water awaits. Climb aboard a traditional wooden canoe and begin your adventure through the mangroves, discovering the hidden villages of El Amor, El Chaco, and La Felicidad along the way. 

Back on dry land, meet your guide at your Cartagena hotel and set out on a walking tour of the picturesque neighborhood of Getsemani. Meet Abraham Dau, an expert mixologist, and join him for a tasting journey through eight varieties of rum and Colombian chocolate, together forming a tantalizing combination.

Cartagena

Tag 11: A culinary experience in Cartagena

Accompanied by a chef and course instructor, this culinary tour starts with a visit to the Mercado de Bazurto, where you can sample various seasonal fruits. Enjoy walking through the market’s multicolored and bustling aisles, buy ingredients for the class, and learn about Cartagena’s gastronomical and cultural traditions as you go.

Return to Getsemani, where a fully-equipped restaurant kitchen awaits. Expertly guided by the chef, you'll prepare a traditional menu served with Cartagena’s delicious and fragrant coconut rice. Savor the fruits of your labor, and make sure to leave room for dessert!

Afterwards, you'll be free to walk back to the hotel or enjoy Cartagena on your own.

Cartagena - Rosario Islands

Tag 12: Journey to the Rosario Islands

Today, transfer from the hotel to the docks of Muelle de la Bodeguita, for a one-hour boat transfer to the Rosario Islands (not suitable for pregnant women). Boundless natural beauty and island paradise await!

Do note that a maximum baggage weight applies for this transfer (one hold luggage, 60x30x30cm and maximum 23kg, plus one small hand luggage). When on the Rosario Islands, you should avoid consuming seafood except at the hotel, and do not accept food from the hands of the locals. The Rosario Islands do not have hospital facilities, and in case of any emergencies, the response time will be subject to the attention of the coastguards.

Rosario Islands

Tag 13: At leisure on the Rosario Islands

Relax and have a break from life's stresses as the white sandy beaches of the islands and the crystal-clear waters transport you to another dimension. The Rosario Islands are protected for their unique coral reefs and marine organisms, which you may want to explore on a diving or snorkeling excursion. Bring a waterproof camera for this spectacular experience!

Rosario Islands - Cartagena - Quito

Tag 14: Welcome to Quito!

Leaving the Rosario Islands behind, you'll journey back to Cartagena and transfer on to your next port of call: the Ecuadorian capital, Quito. Witness the city's grandeur, a sprawling metropolis stretched across a vast highland valley.

Met by a dedicated driver at the airport, you'll enjoy a comfortable trip to your hotel, to check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Quito - Baltra - Santa Cruz

Tag 15: Arrive in the Galapagos

Checking out of your Quito hotel after breakfast, you'll head to the airport for a domestic flight to Baltra, where your Galapagos adventure begins! Join your guide to visit the island of Santa Cruz, home to giant tortoises that free-roam in the wild - these will be especially wonderful to observe on your first stop at a local farm in the highlands.

Enjoy a delicious lunch, then continue to the port in Puerto Ayora. In the afternoon, set out to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where scientists from all over the world meet and work together on environmental projects.

Santa Cruz

Tag 16: Explore an uninhabited island

Enjoy an amazing day trip to an uninhabited island. Depending on the weather, scheduling, and permissions granted by the National Park, you'll visit one of the following: Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour. Each island is unique, offering spectacular scenery and opportunities to see rare wildlife.

Follow land trails to discover their natural wealth; then, after a hearty lunch on-board your vessel, enjoy the opportunity to explore the surrounding waters with a snorkeling excursion. Santa Fé and South Plazas are home to endemic land iguanas, while Bartolomé is known for its beautiful lava flows. On North Seymour, keep an eye out for frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies.

Santa Cruz

Tag 17: Get to know more of the Galapagos

Every day brings marvelous new adventures, and today's boat trip will take you to another uninhabited island. Enjoy watching the diverse range of wildlife, as they thrive in untouched natural habitats within protected lands.

Later on, you'll get to unwind amidst the relaxed atmosphere of Puerto Ayora, a charming town that embodies tranquility and leisure.

Santa Cruz - Isabela

Tag 18: Isabela Island & the wildlife of Las Tintoreras

Begin today with a public speedboat trip to Isabela Island, where you'll stop for an overnight stay. Once there, head to the Flamingo Lagoon or the Giant Tortoise Breeding Station to learn about the local wildlife.

After lunch, join a group tour for a visit to Las Tintoreras Islet for a short hike and some snorkeling. Spot Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions and sharks, which rest in the natural channels formed by lava flows. Afterwards, you'll snorkel in the turquoise waters and spot different fish, sea turtles, rays, and penguins.

Isabela

Tag 19: Wildlife encounters at Los Tuneles

The perfect snorkeling spot of Los Tuneles is located in the Cabo Rosa lava tunnels. To reach this magnificent destination, you'll take a speedboat from the dock in Puerto Villamil.

As you approach, notice the unique geological formations that have been created by series of lava flows, including arcs and tunnels underneath and above the water. These formations make Los Tuneles an exceptional place to explore.

Expect to encounter a diverse range of marine life in the shallow waters. Look out for tropical fish, rays, turtles, sea horses, and white-tipped reef sharks. If you're lucky, you might even swim alongside majestic sea turtles. Keep your eyes peeled for penguins sitting on the rocks, too!

Isabela - Santa Cruz

Tag 20: Return to Santa Cruz

Enjoy a speedboat ride back to Santa Cruz, where you will be met at the dock, then head straight off to the highlands to witness giant tortoises in the wild. Enjoy lunch at a local farm, then continue to Puerto Ayora and your hotel.

In the afternoon, join a small boat tour to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz. Arrive at La Lobería, a small islet named after its great colony of sea lions, and snorkel amidst these creatures and other marine life. It's then on to the Shark Channel, to spot harmless whitetip sharks and blue-footed boobies, and the Canal del Amor, where sea turtles and many different species of tropical fish thrive.

Head ashore and take a 10-minute walk to see marine iguanas in their natural habitat. Lastly, you'll visit Las Grietas, a swimming hole amidst large cliffs, before returning to the hotel for the evening.

Santa Cruz - Baltra

Tag 21: Departure day

Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time in the morning for you to enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping in Puerto Ayora. Then, transfer to the ferry for a crossing of the Itabaca Channel. Meet the airport shuttle bus and arrive in plenty of time for check-in, to continue your onward journey. Safe travels!