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Peregrine Travel Centre

Best of Colombia

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Best of Colombia

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Description

Discover the history and traditions of Colombia’s local villages and native flora and fauna on this 15-day adventure through mountains, towns and beaches. Head into the serene highlands of Colombia’s famed coffee region and encounter the stories and culture embedded in this region’s lush valleys and historic cities. Fall in love with Bogota’s heart, laze on palm-fringed stretches of Caribbean shoreline and hang with locals that redefine hospitality. End your journey in Cartagena – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site with fortresses, a lively local plaza perfect for people-watching and plenty of tasty local dishes to sample.

Trip Name
Best of Colombia
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
15
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Escape to Tayrona National Park – a patchwork of natural landscapes from beaches and mountain backdrops to wildlife-filled jungle.
  • Embark on a guided hike through the Cocora Valley, home to hummingbirds, misty cloud forests and the world's tallest palm trees.
  • Spend a couple of days learning about the world's favourite bean during a stay on a traditional coffee estancia deep in Colombia’s coffee country.
  • Discover Medellin – a city that was once among Colombia’s most dangerous neighbourhoods but has now transformed into an arts and culture hub that’s bursting with trendy cafes, epic views and some of the country’s best nightlife.
  • Try your hand at tejo, Colombia’s explosive national sport (think bocce with gunpowder!). Join your group on this fun activity in Salento, made better with a beer in hand.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Bogota
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia. Your adventure begins in Bogota – sitting at 2644 m above sea level, Colombia's lofty capital is a charming yet hectic mix of old and new. With a wealth of cosy cafes, interesting museums and old churches, there’s plenty to do and see here. You’ll meet with your local leader and group for an orientation walk around the neighbourhood of La Candelaria at 1 pm. There will also be a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, why not head out to dinner with your new travel companions and get to know the local cuisine. As there's little time spent in Bogota on this trip, it’s recommended that you arrive a day or two early to see all the sights this incredible city has to offer.
Day 2 - Salento
This morning, immerse your senses in the flavours and aromas of Colombia on a visit to a local food market – home to Bogota’s biggest selection of native tropical fruits, fresh vegetables and food stalls – and maybe indulge in a delicious arepa (Colombian style cornmeal flatbreads). After, take a short flight and transfer to the village of Salento. When you arrive, stroll through the streets to admire the colours of Paisa architecture at its best. For some local food, trout is the way to go here – there are lots of ways to enjoy it, but it's most often served with a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Tonight, try your hand at Colombia's national sport, tejo – a popular pastime in Salento, made even better with a beer in hand.
Day 3 - Manizales
Travel by jeep out to the magnificent Cocora Valley – home of the towering wax palm (Colombia's national tree). Spend the morning walking among the region's incredible scenery, maybe hiking in the wax palm tree forest. You'll need good walking shoes as well as plenty of water and snacks (a boxed lunch will be provided). If you'd rather take it easy, you can explore the valley as you please, then take a jeep back to town. Later, travel deep into Colombia's coffee region for a two-night stay in a traditional coffee estancia, where you'll have an opportunity to learn first-hand about this wonderful bean.
Day 4 - Manizales
Thanks to its tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil, Colombia is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. You’ll get to know this addictive little bean a whole lot better on a guided tour of the coffee plantation and processing centre. Dig into the history of the plant, learning the inside story of the industry that's long buoyed the country's economy. See how the beans are grown, harvested, processed, dried, roasted and ground, then sample firsthand what all the fuss is about. Try different varieties of coffee beans and learn to prepare different types of coffees – finishing it all off with a steaming cup of freshly brewed joe. After, relax amid the estancia's beautiful surrounds of sloping green hills and valleys.
Day 5 - Medellin
Leave the coffee estancia this morning and take a transfer to the small town of Chinchina, where you’ll board a comfortable public bus for the journey to Medellin. Along the way, learn a little more about the town's intriguing history – having spent the 80s and 90s with an international reputation as one of the world's most dangerous cities (due to Pablo Escobar's infamous drug cartel), Medellin has turned itself around to become one of the most exciting cities in South America. And with some of the country's finest museums, parks and architecture, it's easy to see why its popularity is increasing. When you arrive, explore the city on an orientation walk with your leader.
Day 6 - Medellin
Today you’ll enjoy a birds-eye view of Medellin and its surrounds during a cable car ride up to Santa Elena. Sail up the mountain over brick houses, watching as the corrugated metal roofs give way to vistas of green valleys and forested peaks. Thanks to the elevation, things are usually a little cooler up in Santa Elena. Enjoy an included tour of a flower garden where a local family will showcase the flower displays that are traditional to the region. Back in Medellin, take a barrio transformation tour to see how the city is now more than its dark history. Tonight, you might want to search out one of the city's lively salsa bars (Medellin is known for its nightlife and your leader will know the best spots to go!).
Day 7 - Medellin
Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the Museo de Antioquia to see some of Botero's famous works. Or, get more modern at the beautiful Museo de Arte Moderno. If you’re not sure how to spend your day, your local leader is always on hand with some great tips!
Day 8 - Cartagena
Fly to Cartagena – one of South America's most historic cities. When you arrive, you’ll have some free time to explore the Old City. This inner walled town is the main attraction in Cartagena and is packed with beautiful churches, monasteries, plazas and mansions. Its walled fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built to protect Cartagena’s large slave trade port. Maybe visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the largest of the fortresses. You might end this adventure people-watching in the heart of Getsemani at Plaza de la Trinidad, where kids play football and street performers jam out. Tonight, you’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm to meet new travellers who may be joining you for this next leg. After the meeting, step out for an orientation walk with your leader to get a better feel for the city and explore some things you might not have seen yet (sometimes this walk will take place tomorrow morning instead). This evening, maybe head out with your leader and fellow travellers for an optional dinner in town to get to know the new travellers in your group.
Day 9 - Cartagena
This morning, set off on a daytrip to La Boquilla – a small fishing village on the outskirts of Cartagena – to explore the mangroves that are part of the Ciénaga de la Virgen coastal lagoon system. On arrival, you'll see the contrast between two sides of Cartagena: one of its most underprivileged areas alongside rising five-star hotels and luxury apartments. Hop in a canoe with a local boatman to explore the mangroves and the Juan Polo swamp, gliding through tree tunnels and past fishermen at work. The biodiversity here is rich, with a good chance of spotting various birds, crabs, and – with a bit of luck – a raccoon or green parrot along the riverbanks. Finish the tour with a fresh coconut, then return to Cartagena for some free time to relax.
Day 10 - Cartagena
Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. You could join a half-day tour of the Old Town to explore highlights like La Popa Monastery, San Felipe Castle (the largest of the city's fortresses) and Las Bovedas – a former military fortification and network of dungeons that has been turned into a craft market. Or how about an island-hopping adventure around Islas del Rosario? This archipelago is surrounded by mangroves and coral reefs and is a great spot for snorkelling! Make sure to check in with your leader for recommendations to try some local food.
Day 11 - Guachaca
Take a private transfer this morning to Taironaka – an ancient Tayrona archaeological and ecotourism reserve on the banks of the Don Diego River. This afternoon, you’ll meet a member of the Kogui community – one of the four Indigenous groups living in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta – and learn about their beliefs, ancient wisdom and deep connection to the land. The community also leads reforestation and regeneration projects, and you’ll have the chance to muck in and plant some trees yourself. This evening, maybe enjoy a cocktail or two with your fellow travellers.
Day 12 - Tayrona National Park / Guachaca Region
Get your walking shoes and bug spray ready – today’s all about exploring the jungle trails in Tayrona National Park! Stretching along a lush section of the Caribbean coast, Tayrona is home to some of the country's prettiest beaches, coral reefs and abundant wildlife – with over 100 species of mammals and more than 300 types of birds. You’ll hike to Cabo San Juan – a gorgeous beach only accessible by boat or on foot. Along the way, weave through rainforest, catch glimpses of the turquoise water and maybe spot a sloth or howler monkey overhead. Once you reach Cabo San Juan, cool off with a well-deserved swim or sip a fresh coconut under the palms. You’ll then head back to Taironaka for a free evening – how about treating yourself to a relaxing massage after today’s adventures?
Day 13 - Santa Marta
Today you’ll take a private transfer to Santa Marta at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This coastal city is South America's oldest European-founded town. Once you arrive, join your leader for an orientation walk through the historic centre to find your bearings. Stroll past Santa Marta Cathedral, Parque de los Novios and Plaza de Bolivar, and hear stories about the city’s layered past. As the sun sets, you'll have free time to unwind or explore further. When hunger hits, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations.
Day 14 - Cartagena
Travel like a local this morning on a public bus back to Cartagena. One of the best ways to gain an insight into the culture is through food, so this afternoon you’ll hit the streets on a tasting tour with a local guide. Wander market stalls, meet lively Cartageneros vendors and try a range of local snacks – think: carimañolas (torpedo-shaped meat pies), chorizo sausage, corn on the cob buns and enyucado (cassava cheesecake). As this is your final night as a group, you might like to go for one last dinner together and raise a toast to an unforgettable week in Colombia. Salud!
Day 15 - Cartagena
With no activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you'd like to spend more time in Colombia, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability) – just let us know when booking.
Day 16 - Bogota
Time for some exploring – today, You’ll explore the oldest area in the city and understand more about the Colombian past, present and future. One is La Candelaria, the historic heart of the city. Boasting a wealth of cosy cafes and colonial churches, it's a neighbourhood full of surprises. As well as loads of museums, art and great food to try, it's also just a beautiful town to walk around, an interesting clash of the old and new. During the day, you will also learn about Colombia’s turbulent past on a ‘War and Peace’ tour, which outlines their history of war, including political assassinations and armed groups in conflict, and how the country has developed into the situation it finds itself now.
Day 17 - Bogota
After an included breakfast, there are no planned activities today and no accommodation planned at night. If you wish to spend more time in Bogota, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
21-03-202606-04-2026AUD $ 8,460-
28-03-202613-04-2026AUD $ 7,286-
09-05-202623-05-2026AUD $ 6,430-
04-07-202618-07-2026AUD $ 6,590-
18-07-202601-08-2026AUD $ 6,490-
22-08-202605-09-2026AUD $ 6,590-
05-09-202619-09-2026AUD $ 6,890-
19-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 6,330-
03-10-202617-10-2026AUD $ 6,330-
24-10-202607-11-2026AUD $ 6,495-
31-10-202614-11-2026AUD $ 6,660-
07-11-202621-11-2026AUD $ 6,795-
14-11-202628-11-2026AUD $ 6,830-
21-11-202605-12-2026AUD $ 7,060-
28-11-202612-12-2026AUD $ 7,695-
12-12-202626-12-2026AUD $ 6,695-
19-12-202602-01-2027AUD $ 6,830-
22-12-202605-01-2027AUD $ 6,830-
02-01-202716-01-2027AUD $ 7,090-
09-01-202723-01-2027AUD $ 7,090-
16-01-202730-01-2027AUD $ 7,090-
30-01-202713-02-2027AUD $ 7,090-
06-02-202720-02-2027AUD $ 6,960-
13-02-202727-02-2027AUD $ 6,960-
27-02-202713-03-2027AUD $ 6,960-
06-03-202720-03-2027AUD $ 6,960-
20-03-202703-04-2027AUD $ 6,960-
17-04-202701-05-2027AUD $ 6,760-
08-05-202722-05-2027AUD $ 6,560-
05-06-202719-06-2027AUD $ 6,560-
03-07-202717-07-2027AUD $ 6,760-
17-07-202731-07-2027AUD $ 6,760-
21-08-202704-09-2027AUD $ 6,560-
04-09-202718-09-2027AUD $ 6,560-
18-09-202702-10-2027AUD $ 6,560-
02-10-202716-10-2027AUD $ 6,560-
23-10-202706-11-2027AUD $ 6,760-
13-11-202727-11-2027AUD $ 6,960-
20-11-202704-12-2027AUD $ 6,960-
27-11-202711-12-2027AUD $ 6,960-
11-12-202725-12-2027AUD $ 6,960-
18-12-202701-01-2028AUD $ 7,090-

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights), Guesthouse (1 night) Coffee Estancia (2 nights)

Transport

Plane, Private Bus, Private vehicle, Public bus, Van

Map

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