Colombia off the beaten track

Bogota

Day 1: Welcome to Bogota

Upon your arrival in Bogota, your driver will collect you for a transfer to your accommodation.

Depending on your arrival time, take an orientation tour or simply relax in your hotel. It is advisable to drink plenty of water to help adapt to the high altitude.

Bogota

Day 2: Explore Bogota's history & heights

Today, enjoy a guided excursion of La Candelaria, to appreciate some of the wonderful historical sites here. Just some of the stops on the tour through Bogota's oldest neighborhood will be Bolivar Plaza, the Casa de Nariño, Palace of Justice, Catedral Primada de Colombia, and much more.

Catch your breath with a stroll through El Museo del Oro (Gold Museum). This grand, three-story museum boasts the largest collection of gold artifacts in the world, along with many other items made by ancient indigenous cultures.

Ascend the summit of Monserrate, which reaches an elevation of 3,152m, and learn why this mountain is of great cultural importance for the indigenous Musica. Then, wander through the artisan markets, visit a 17th-century monastery, and witness the spectacular panoramic views of the city.

San Jose Del Guaviare

Day 3: Into the wild in San Jose

Embark on a short flight to San Jose, arriving late morning ready for the tour. Depending on the time of year, from the start point at Puerta de Orión, you will tour either the Red River (July to October) or the Black Lagoon (November to June).

For the Red River, set out on a gentle walk through the local area before heading to Cano Sabana. Admire the scenery of this magical river which displays the colorful water plant Macarenia clavigera - found only in Colombia (note that swimming not allowed).

The color of the Black Lagoon is said to be caused by  guios serpents that live within it - though some would argue it's only the color of dry leaves accumulating at the bottom. Enjoy a short boat ride, spot monkeys in the nearby trees, and spy a wonderful abundance of birds. Swim in the refreshing waters, and even enjoy some natural ichthyotherapy, where fish clean the dead skin from your feet.

San Jose Del Guaviare

Day 4: The wonders of Cerro Azul

Leaving shortly after breakfast at around 7.30am, you'll travel for approximately two hours to the archaeological site of Cerro Azul. Walk through lush jungle terrain and into the cave, within which you'll encounter prehistoric rock paintings of animals, people, plants, and daily life dating back more than 12,000 years. Do keep in mind, this tour is of medium difficulty, so a good fitness level is recommended.

Afterward, head off to enjoy a late lunch before traveling back to the hotel, with a 4.30pm expected arrival time.

San Jose Del Guaviare

Day 5: In search of pink dolphins

Today you'll make an early start at 5.30am, for a three-hour journey by 4x4 to the Laguna Damas del Nare, stopping for breakfast along the way. Once there, a gentle hour-long hike will take you through a beautiful natural forest full of exotic plants, birds and monkeys.

Reaching the water's edge, take a short break before climbing into a canoe to explore the lagoon in search of the area's famous pink dolphins. Grab the opportunity to swim in the warm waters, perhaps surrounded by these playful creatures, before returning to shore. On dry land, enjoy a wonderful lunch before walking through the magical forest and heading back to your hotel.

San Jose Del Guaviare - Yopal

Day 6: Welcome to Yopal

Begin the day with a visit to the Pinturas Rupestres Nuevo Tolima; a short hike will bring you to a single wall of rock paintings, less expansive than Cerro Azul yet equally intriguing and less crowded. Then, enjoy a local lunch before joining a flight from San Jose del Guaviare Airport to Yopal's El Alcaraván, via El Dorado.

On arrival, private transport awaits to take you to Yopal, capital of the Casanare region. Marvel at the beautiful Orinoquia landscapes on the way to your hato (farmhouse) accommodation, located in a nature reserve. This expansive territory is home to numerous bird species, reptiles, amphibians and mammals, numerous herds of capybara, and even the elusive puma. The incredible landscape is perfected by striking sunrises and sunsets. You'll be warmly welcomed at the hato before enjoying a typical local dinner and settling in for the night.

Yopal

Day 7: Safari adventures in Los Llanos

Rise with the sun and grab a quick coffee or juice before heading out on foot for a couple of hours to explore the abundance of regional bird life. With more than 270 species of registered birds, and various species of migratory birds passing through the reserve, you can expect to find an amazing variety of colors, shapes, and songs within these plains.

Next, it's back to the farmhouse for some breakfast and perhaps a quick nap, before heading out again for a guided walking safari to see more natural wonders and build up an appetite for lunch.

After lunch, enjoy some time at leisure before a three- to four-hour horseback safari, another great way to experience this beautiful location. Riding until sunset, seek out a wealth of wildlife as you trot across the plains. Then, return to the hato for a bonfire and fireside dinner, ending another perfect day in Los Llanos.

Yopal - Bogota

Day 8: From Yopal's plains to Bogota

Rise early - perhaps grab a coffee - and head down to the lake to enjoy the golden early light, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Return for breakfast, before joining a short safari either by canoe (during the wet season) or on foot. Venture out for a couple of hours in search of more of the wild animals that live here.

Depending on the flight time to Bogota, there may be time for one more lunch in the Colombian Casanare, followed by an experience learning about the life of the Llanos cowboys. Discover the tools of their trade and artisan-crafted utensils, and learn about the indigenous people who inhabit these lands. Finally, transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight back to Bogota.

Bogota

Day 9: Modern & traditional art in Bogota

Today you'll head to Nuestra Senora de Egipto, the church located at the entrance of Barrio Egipto, to start an intriguing graffiti tour. Through murals packed with color, discover the story behind how resilience has transformed the Egipto neighborhood, and stop for a chat with the locals on this authentic experience.

Spend the afternoon at the Museo Botero, one of the most popular museums in Bogota. Located in La Candelaria, it's named after famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero, who donated 208 pieces of art to the museum - 123 of which are his own works, which sit alongside 85 more by artists such as Picasso and Monet. Situated in a two-story colonial whitewashed house, this museum also features a serene garden at its heart, and enjoys a fantastic view of Monserrate from the upper level.

Bogota - Santa Marta

Day 10: Flight to Santa Marta

Enjoy a short flight to Santa Marta, in the Colombian Caribbean. On arrival, transport awaits to take you to your accommodation, where you'll have the rest of the day to relax and unwind.

Cabo San Juan

Day 11: Welcome to Caribbean paradise

Cabo San Juan in Tayrona Park offers a mixture of compelling scenes: tropical jungle on one side, beautiful white sands and the bold blues of the Caribbean on the other - together forming the perfect Caribbean landscape.

Head to Tayrona Park for an enchanting and informative, two-hour ecological walk through the jungle, which includes visits to four beaches along the way (Arenillas, La Piscina, Cabo San Juan, and Los Arrecifes). You'll have ample time to enjoy the beach; partake in snorkeling or other water sports if you wish, before heading back to your hotel. If you're in the mood for an extra adventure, you could even choose to enjoy the day on horseback (with an estimated tour start time at 7am).

Manaure - Uribia - Cabo De La Vela

Day 12: Deep-dive into indigenous culture

Set out early to make the most of the day in this beautiful area. Traveling from Riohacha you'll reach Uribia, the indigenous capital of La Guajira, and enjoy a tour of this town with a special stop at the important Wayuu cultural center.

Next up are the Salinas de Manaure salt ponds, where a community leader will accompany you on a tour to uncover the traditional methods used to extract their salt; pause here to enjoy a thalassotherapy session.

Drive on for two hours to the jaw-dropping Cabo de La Vela. Arriving before lunch, get to know the area before joining a guide to hike out to the sacred Pilon de Azucar.

Next, it’s on to the wonderful beaches of Playa Dorada and Ojo de Agua, to relax and enjoy an incredible sunset. Return to your lodgings for dinner and to learn more about the Wayuu people and their culture, before settling in for the night.

Mayapo Beach - Santa Marta

Day 13: Beachfront relaxation in Mayapo

Departing at around 7am, drive to Playas de Mayapo to enjoy some relaxing you-time on soft sands. Famous not only for its beauty and fair sands, but also for its good wind conditions and waves, this location is ideal for water sports such as wind- and kite-surfing.

For lunch, you'll visit the Maliwala Refuge to enjoy some of the most amazing local dishes. With a full stomach, continue your journey to Riohacha, arriving in plenty of time for a restful evening.

Santa Marta - Cartagena

Day 14: Endless history & panoramas in Cartagena

Drive along the coast to reach your hotel in Cartagena. Check in and enjoy some free time before exploring the ancient city on a guided tour, discovering the magical sites that give the coastal jewel of Colombia its UNESCO heritage status.

Explore every aspect of the city's charming colonial streets and take in all the main landmarks of Cartagena's famous walled city. On this tour you'll visit must-see stops, plazas, restaurants, cafes, and bars, along with one of the oldest and most bohemian neighborhoods in Cartagena, Getsemani.

Soak up panoramic views of the city from Cerro de La Popa, a convent built in 1606 and the highest peak overlooking Cartagena. Explore the historic Castle San Felipe, learning how this heritage-listed structure was defended from pirates and invaders, and get to know more iconic landmarks on this historic tour.

Rosario Islands

Day 15: Kick back in tropical paradise

Today you'll enjoy a wonderful ocean cruise by speedboat to the Rosario Islands. Arrive at a picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters, white sands, and palm trees all bathed in sunlight. Here you'll have your own designated space and full beach service, including an arrival cocktail, lunch, use of deckchairs and umbrellas, and the assistance of English-speaking hosts. Kick back for a full day of well-earned relaxation, or if you'd rather step things up a notch, perhaps try your hand at kayaking, snorkeling or paddle boarding.

Cartagena

Day 16: Foodie heaven in Bazurto Market

Today, enjoy a guided walking tour of colorful Getsemani. Explore streets filled with graffiti, Centenario Park and the Holy Trinity Square, and discover where all the hip cafes, bars and restaurants are hidden, before roaming the market of Bazurto. Here you'll find an incredible range of tropical fruits, fish and meat; you'll have the chance to sample produce and learn about the working lives of the people behind the stalls.

The tour continues with a visit to a nearby restaurant, to learn how the locals cook their meals and enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, take a stroll in the market's artisan and community area, and enjoy a freshly-prepared juice to wrap up this tour of rainbow colors and flavors. Come evening, finish off the day with a catamaran cruise at sunset - the perfect cherry on an already-delightful cake.

Cartagena

Day 17: Departure day

Today you'll transfer from the hotel to the airport for your onward flight home.