Colombian Journeys Brochure 2020-2021 by colombian

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INDEX INTRODUCTION

COLOMBIA

PACKAGES & EXCURSIONS 7 CITY BOGOTÁ

MEDELLÍN

CALI

BARRANQUILLA

SEA

SAN ANDRÉS, PROVIDENCIA & SANTA CATALINA

CARTAGENA DE INDIAS

ROSARIO ISLANDS & BARÚ

SANTA MARTA & TAGANGA

TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK

CAPURGANÁ

LA GUAJIRA

THE PACIFIC: GORGONA NATIONAL PARK, NUQUÍ & BAHÍA SOLANO

COLONIAL

VILLA DE LEYVA

POPAYÁN

SANTA CRUZ DE MOMPOX

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

SAN AGUSTÍN & TIERRADENTRO

THE AMAZON

THE COFFEE TRIANGLE

SANTANDER

CAÑO CRISTALES

NARIÑO

INdex

THE EASTERN PLAINS

BIRDWATCHING IN COLOMBIA 76 EXPERIENCES 78 TOURS BY EXPERTS 82 SOCIAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS 83 TOUR CIRCUITS

8 9

COLOMBIA, HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGY: BOGOTÁ | SAN AGUSTÍN | POPAYÁN | CARTAGENA

86 88 90 92 94 96

COLOMBIA COLONIAL TOWNS: BOGOTÁ | VILLA DE LEYVA | BARICHARA | Mompox | CARTAGENA

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HIGHLIGHTS OF COLOMBIA: BOGOTÁ | COFFEE REGION | MEDELLÍN | CARTAGENA

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ADVENTURE & TREKKING

1 TREKKING IN EL COCUY NATIONAL PARK 2 EXPEDITION TO LA ALTA GUAJIRA 3 TREKKING CIUDAD PERDIDA ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK 4 COLOMBIAN MASSIF, MAGDALENA RIVER & PURACÉ NATIONAL NATURAL PARK 5 CERROS DE MAVECURE 6 SAN JOSÉ DEL GUAVIARE AND OVERFLIGHT IN CHIRIBIQUETE INFORMATION

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colombian journeys

Almost twelve years have passed since I moved to Colombia as a freelance journalist and travel guide and each year the country has become a major tourist destination. Previously, Colombia was considered to be too dangerous to visit, with tourists preferring to travel to other safer countries in the region like Ecuador, Peru and Costa Rica. But now, Colombia, a true sleeping giant with great potential in areas like ecotourism, and a variety of options available for the visitor within its wide frontiers has awoken from her slumber. Positive news about Colombia are spread out almost on a daily basis, changing the country’s previously justifiable and terrible reputation. Now, visitors are keen to trek the mountains, shop and dine out in the cities, swim in the oceans and explore this country from top to bottom where they once feared to tread. The very real prospect of peace is upon Colombia and so are million-dollar investments into Colombia’s waterways, highways, ports and other forms of communication which have once again pushed Colombia forward to better accommodate international trade and tourism. People who have already visited these shores no longer talk about a country of kidnapping but of a country that is very diverse, that ranks first in

the list of nations with the most species of birds. In fact, Colombia’s visitors like the country so much that they are asking travel agencies to provide them with new and more diverse options to cater to fit their needs. Those who have yet to visit Colombia will be astonished by the sophisticated and world class dining options now available in Bogotá and Cartagena. It also has nicely restored colonial towns in the interior, pristine desert beaches in the northeast, impenetrable and untouched Amazonian jungles in the south, vast grassy savannahs stretching out east to Venezuela, wide coffee plantations lining in the volcanic hillsides of the Coffee Triangle and the raucous bustle of the major cities. One could continue describing the attractions of Colombia from the chaotic yet intact folklore of the Barranquilla Carnival, Medellín’s ExpoModa fashion event, the multicoloured river of Cano Cristales and the curiosities of the traditional market of Silvia, but, this only serves as a reminder that a trip to Colombia demands time and planning to ensure that you get the most out of it. For all these reasons, I recommend Colombian Journeys to help you in your next trip to this country that I am happy to call “home”.

Richard McColl JOURNALIST & GUIDE

4 information

COLOMBIA

Colombia consists on a territory of 1.141.748 square meters and 928.660 square meters of marine areas. It is located north of the South American continent and is bordered to the north by the Caribbean Sea, to the east by Panama and the Pacific Ocean, to the west by Venezuela and Brazil and to the south by Ecuador and Peru. Colombia takes its name from Christopher Columbus, who first laid foot on these lands although he did not discover them. The first explorers were Alonso de Ojeda and Amerigo Vespucci, who arrived in Cabo de La Vela on the Guajira peninsula in 1499 in their obsessive quest for El Dorado. After numerous Spanish expeditions in search for gold, in 1525, Rodrigo de Bastidas anchored in Santa Marta. In 1533, Pedro de Heredia founded Cartagena, which became the main commercial centre, and in 1538, Santa Fe de Bogotá was founded on the territory of the Bacatá Indians. Thus, Colombia can only produce fascination for its rich historic past, visible in cities that maintain an intact colonial patrimony as shown on the streets, residences and churches of Cartagena, Mompox, Girón and Bogotá, among others. But the country is also surprising for the numerous marvels found within 1.600 km of Atlantic coast, 1.300 km of Pacific coast and three majestic mountain ranges traversed by winding roads that connect villages and cities, cultures and races. It has dreamy beaches in San Andrés and Islas del Rosario and in the San Bernardo archipelago, and deserted ones in the Tayrona National Park, ideal seasides for underwater sports at Malpelo and to observe cetaceans in the Gorgona island; the snowed peaks and Andean landscapes of the parks of El Cocuy and Los Nevados; Extraordinary fauna in the Amazonian jungle of Amacayacu National Park, as well as majestic flora such as the “Victoria Regia”, the world’s largest lotus flower; the salt marshes, the flamingoes, the contrast of sea and desert

and the indigenous Wayúu culture in the Guajira peninsula. The Colombian territory houses the most important population of day time butterflies, orchids and palm trees, including the “Palma de Cera del Quindío”, the world’s tallest palm tree. It has also five biosphere reserves recognized by UNESCO for its outstanding importance. One mustn’t forget the ancient pre-Columbian civilizations whose culture survives to our day leaving us a heritage of gold, precious stones and ceramic creations of astounding beauty. The park of San Agustín is the country’s most important archaeological zone showcasing giant stone sculptures, examples of the importance of funerary art. Ciudad Perdida and Pueblito in Santa Marta´s Sierra Nevada evidence the advanced knowledge of the Tayrona culture regarding the use of water in construction. The attractiveness of Colombia is also related to its people who, like the indigenous community of Santa Marta´s Sierra Nevada, the Kanzá in the Putumayo, the Cubeos in Vaupes, the Wayúu in the Guajira and the Arhaucos and Koguis in the Nabusimake, hold their traditions intact. Colombia is a racial melting pot: the mix of black Africans, Indians and Caucasians has resulted in a graceful and beautiful people who vary from one place to another and who are always joyful, generous, helping and enthusiastic. Colombia is the land of Gabriel García Márquez -1982 Nobel Prize in literature- who set his novels here, turning places, residences, convents and people into legend or “magical realism” as he did in the novel love in times of Cholera, turned into a movie filmed in Cartagena or with Florentino Ariza, who waited a lifetime for his beloved. Colombia is the art and culture of the great artist Fernando Botero, known as the sculptor and painter of “gordos y gordas” (fat men and women), and whose work is found on squares and parks in cities like Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, Florence and New York.

colombian journeys

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PACKAGES & EXCURSIONS

colombian journeys

BOGOTÁ

ogotá is the sprawling, chaotic and captivating capital city of Colombia. With around eight million inhabitants it’s the most important political and financial city in the country. It is situated in the geographical center of Colombia with an altitude of 2640 m.a.m.s.l. on a plateau known as the Savannah of Bogotá on the west of the Andes Mountains. Bogotá’s privileged location means that it is blessed with a year-round spring-like climate where the flowers are always blooming. The average temperature is 14ºC and fluctuates between 4ºC and 28ºC. December, January, February and March are the driest months; while June and July are the rainiest and August is hot and sunny with a strong breeze. Bogotá has a diverse variety of “barrios” or neighbourhoods: the tall modern buildings are located in an area called “Centro Internacional” and just beside it you find the bohemian Macarena district where the “Plaza de Toros” is located. The historic centre is called the “Candelaria” and its where the colonial city was created. It also holds the seat of government and congress. To the north you can find the barrios of “La Merced” and “Teusaquillo” which stand out for their distinctly British architecture. Chapinero, Avenida Chile, Calle 82 and Calle 100 make up the commercial and financial districts. Further to the north is the colonial area of Usaquen which was formerly a town of its own, but now is a part of Bogotá. To the West you find the industrial barrios of Restrepo and Las Americas. The city was founded on August 6, 1538 and was given the name of Santa Fe by the conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, who arrived in these lands in search for gold and who defeated the Chibcha indigenous people in Bacatá. Bacatá is the indigenous Chibcha word for capital of the Zipa confederation. This town made up part of the Muisca territory, an indigenous group of the Chibcha linguistic strain. In 1717 the kingdom of New Granada was established here and in 1819 Simón Bolívar chose this city as the capital of Gran Colombia, a territory that included Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru and Venezuela. Bogotá is today a modern city with a bubbling cultural scene and vibrant social aspect. Picturesque, with an important architectural heritage, the most impressive collection of Pre-Columbian art in the world, unrivalled urban graffiti and fantastic museums; it is also a city of futuristic architecture with enormous and modern buildings. The poverty that lives alongside such wealth forms contrasts that make this both a fascinating and aggressive city.

distance 40 min road trip from bogotá airport

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Bogotá Arrive at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá via international carrier. Reception and transportation to hotel, check in and overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half day visit in Bogotá Half day visit to Bogotá, starting by the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This old “barrio” of great architectural and cultural heritage is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit to the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar

is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has built over four centuries. The Sagrario Chapel is located just beside the Cathedral and is a beautiful example of religious architecture and houses valuable pieces of colonial religious art by Gregorio Vasquez de Arce y Ceballos. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece

of civil architecture. The central area of the Capitol, known as the Elliptical Room, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal courtyards there are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, president on four occasions, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian national anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolivar you find the Justice Palace, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Liévano Building, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Comuneros House, named after the leaders that participated in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. The visit continues with the Botero Museum, a colonial house filled with works of art made and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to some artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Golden Museum which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinú, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Golden Museum is considered internationally as one of the most important museums of its type and has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make it an interactive museum that would involve the senses with the objects on display and it belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

excursions

day 3 | Bogotá Breakfast and transfer to the airport. meals: B / - / -

HALF DAY ZIPAQUIRÁ AND SALT CATHEDRAL In the morning depart from Bogotá to the north, towards Zipaquirá. After a journey of roughly 1.15 hours reach the impressive Salt Cathedral, a true achievement of engineering. The name Zipaquirá refers to Zipa, the leader of the Muisca tribe and the chief of these rich salt mines. The excursion will begin by visiting the cathedral in a series of tunnels that pass by the fourteen Stations of the Cross and continues on to the dome. The dome is lit in such a way that let one to contemplate the universe and the relationship between man and nature. Later, visitors reach the enormous cross carved into the saline rock and finally the three naves of the Cathedral that represent the birth, life and death of Christ. In the central nave is where the main altar is located, above which lays the cross that heights 16m and has a width of 10 m, made by the Colombian artist Carlos Enrique Rodriguez. This is the largest cross made from salt in the world. Next, we visit the mine where there is an excellent auditorium that can seat up to two hundred people, host film screenings and events such as fashion shows. The trip ends at a mirror of water where it is possible to experience the amazing visual effects of water on carved saline rock.

duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged departure in the morning or afternoon. guide: Private bilingual guide. COMBINE THIS TOUR WITH: Half Day Bogotá or Half Day Guatavita Lake.

FULL DAY COFFEE EXPERIENCE IN LA PALMA Y EL TUCÁN Visit a coffee project located a short two-hour journey from Bogotá. Once you arrive in the town of Zipacón you will head directly to La Palma and El Tucán Farm where you will be immersed in the world of coffee. Here, you will receive a full explanation of how Colombia has been able to become perhaps the best coffee producer in the world. Don’t think for a moment that you are just an idle spectator on this trip, you will be expected to participate! From the seed to the cup, by way of the seed germinator and the storeroom, you will experience and learn first-hand about the myriad of processes required to make that special brew. After viewing the coffee processing center and the drying area and exploring the different aromas and scents which

come with specialty coffee, you will sit down to a sumptuous meal sourced from the sustainable and organic produce cultivated here in this region. After some more coffee and some gourmet bread, return to Bogotá. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged departure in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: For an additional charge, you will have the opportunity to collect your own beans from the plantation and learn about bean selection and roasting. Continue with a barista class with an international professional barista, followed by a professional coffee tasting. You can also sign up to organize for this coffee to be shipped international to your home (3 additional hours).

HALF DAY BIKE TOUR BOGOTÁ Tour the historic center known as La Candelaria by bicycle. This neighborhood is full of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great

colombian journeys CITY

liberator Simón Bolívar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, was constructed over the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has been collected over four centuries. The Sagrario Chapel is located just beside the Cathedral and is a beautiful representation of religious architecture and which houses valuable pieces of colonial religious art by Gregorio Vasquez de Arce y Ceballos. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. The central area of the Capitol, known as the Elliptical Room, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal courtyards there are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, president on four occasions, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian national anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Justice Palace, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Liévano Building, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and Los Comuneros House, named after the leaders that participated in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. Also pass by some of the most important universities in the country, the Plaza Del Chorro de Quevedo, a small square where some historians claim that Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada founded the city. Continue the tour to The Bogotá International Center which is one of the most important areas in Bogotá and visit La Merced, a traditional neighbourhood in the city. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning or afternoon. guide: Private bilingual guide. OPTIONAL: Enjoy a graffiti bike tour in Bogotá’s historic center.

BOGOTÁ NIGHTLIFE Start the trip in the Zona Rosa and the Zona T where the majority of the restaurants, bars and fashionable nightclubs of the city are found. Take a walk around the area and enjoy sights and sounds of the local rumba. End the visit at the Monserrate Sanctuary, a symbol of Bogotá. Ride the cable car or funicular up to it, at 500mts above Bogotá (total of 3140 m.a.m.s.l.). The site offers an incredible panorama of the city on one side and the Andes on the other. duration: Approximately 7 hours. schedule: To be arranged departure in the evening, at approximately 6:00 p.m. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: This tour is offered from Thursday to Sunday and on Monday only if it is a national holiday.

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bogotá

OPTIONAL: Dinner, tour in chiva (a colourful and iconic city bus to party the night away while journeying through the city) ending in Chia and return by car. Same tour can be organized in Andres Carne de Res Bogotá City (located in the Zona Rosa) or in Gaira Café Cumbia House (famous for its vallenato music).

HALF DAY BOGOTÁ INCLUDING MONSERRATE Enjoy a half day visit to the historic centre of Bogotá known as La Candelaria. This ancient district has great significance in the country´s history due to its cultural heritage and is also a great example of Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the main square the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator of northern South America Simón Bolívar is located. The plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes such as a marketplace, a bullring and it was also the place where many executions were held. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, was constructed on the same spot where the first church was built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artworks, a collection that has been built over four centuries. The Sagrario Chapel is located just beside the Cathedral and is a beautiful example of religious architecture, it houses valuable pieces of colonial religious art by Gregorio Vasquez de Arce y Ceballos. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it was the first example of republican civil architecture. The central area of the Capitol, known as the Elliptic Hall, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal courtyards there are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, a four-term president, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian National Anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolivar you can see buildings such as the Justice Palace, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Liévano Building, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and Los Comuneros House, named after the leaders that participated in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. The visit continues with the Botero Museum, a colonial house exhibiting some of Fernando Botero´s works of art along with pieces from his own personal collection that includes works by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Gold Museum which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinú, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Gold Museum is considered one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been operating since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete renovation making it possible for visitors to enjoy an interactive experience. The Museum belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). After a half day visit in Bogotá, end the day in the Monserrate Sanctuary, a symbol of Bogotá. Ride

the cable car or funicular up to it, at 500mts above Bogotá (total of 3140 m.a.m.s.l.). The site offers an incredible panorama over the city on one side and the Andes on the other. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning or afternoon. guide: Private bilingual guide. COMBINE THIS TOUR WITH: Half day Zipaquirá and Salt Cathedral or Half Day Guatavita Lake or Half Day Nemocón. NOTE: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays & the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

HALF DAY IN GUATAVITA Depart from Bogotá and head north passing the towns of Tocancipá and Gachancipá, travel for approximately 1.30 hours until reaching the legendary Guatavita Lake. The lake is located within the forest reserve of the Cacique Guatavita and Cuchilla de Peñas Blancas. In this magical and mystical place, formerly inhabited by the ancient Muisca people, it is possible to observe a great variety of flora and fauna endemic to the high-altitude Andean woodlands. See hummingbirds, hawks and blackbirds flitting between the trees. There is also a great variety of interesting trees with exotic names such as the Mano de Oso, the Uvos de Monte and the Té de Bogotá. The legend of El Dorado emerged from Muisca traditions. When the Muisca elected a new cacique or chief he would be accompanied to the lake and bathed first in honey and then in gold dust before being launched out into the lake on a raft with offerings of gold and precious stones which would later be thrown into the depths of the water. This ceremony and act of transformation created the legend known as El Dorado. Visit the town of Guatavita and the lake of Tominé, striking with its white painted houses, beautiful square and tranquillity. Sunday is market day and so there is much more activity in town. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged departure in the morning or afternoon. guide: Private bilingual guide. COMBINE THIS TOUR WITH: Half Day Zipaquirá and Salt Cathedral or Half Day Bogotá. NOTE: Guatavita Lake is closed on Mondays except when Monday is a public holiday, in that case it is closed on Tuesday.

MEDELLÍN M

edellín, the capital of the department of Antioquia, is located deep in the fertile and mountainous Aburrá valley in the central Andean highlands. It is at an altitude of 1538 m.a.m.s.l. which gives this city an eternal springtime temperature with an average climate of 20°C. In 1541 the Spanish named this valley as San Bartolomé. Later, in 1616, under the orders of Francisco Herrera Campuzano, the land where today the barrio of El Poblado is located, was renamed San Lorenzo de Aburrá. This name, Aburrá, stems from a translation from the Aburraes and Yamesíes indigenous tribes which most likely refers to the embroidery in the cotton and textile work that these pre-Hispanic people used to practice prior to the arrival of the colonial invaders. Then, on November 2, 1675, the Villa de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de Medellín was founded. Originally Medellín was a modest, humble town which is evidenced by its colonial buildings that are far from opulent, and whose origins date back to the coffee boom of the 20th Century. Once coffee fever had taken hold of Medellín, the city’s economic development began in earnest and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) was created on June 27, 1927. From here on, the city was transformed thanks to the resourcefulness and hardworking nature of its citizens, the Paisas, as the people of Medellín are known. While the city initially flourished, things stagnated somewhat in the 1980s at the height of the narco-trafficking period lead by Pablo Escobar. The name Medellín became a by-word for drugs, violence and the narco-mafia. After a disastrous era of severe violence, the city has, for the most part, turned the page on these dark days and the population, showing its strength, has made clear its desire to associate the city international image with its real values: the thriving cultural life in the fields of journalism, literature, urban and fashion design, as well as the artwork and sculptures of the globally renowned artist, Fernando Botero. Furthermore, Medellín has become a bustling city of industry and commerce, especially textile manufacturing and exported cut flowers, which represent the best example of the whole country’s social transformation. The city is well worth visiting during the annual Flower Festival, held over two weeks during July and August. The key events and perhaps the most interesting are the exhibitions of orchids, birds and flowers and the most representative parade, that of the Silleteros. During this procession the participants carry floral displays weighing up to 60 kilos each. The name “silletero” comes from the tradition that these farmers used to, and indeed still do practice, of carrying their children on chairs. However, this tradition has become a cultural phenomenon and rather than carrying children, the farmers transport these heavy floral arrangements instead.

distance 55 min road trip from MEDELLÍN airport ºC

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Medellín - Half Day City Tour Arrive at Medellín’s airport and transfer to hotel. In the afternoon, half day visit in Medellín city, Colombia’s second most important city and a standout commercial and cultural destination. Visit the Plaza de Botero that houses around twentythree Botero sculptures donated by the artist in 2000. Moving on to the Plazuela de San Ignacio, one of the oldest parts of the city where the statue of General Francisco de Paula Santander and the

bust of Marcelino Velez are located. It is surrounded by the San Ignacio building which houses the Universidad de Antioquia’s history department. On the other side, the baroque San Ignacio church with its neoclassical exterior fools all with its gothic interior. Then, continue to the Pies Descalzos Park which was inspired by oriental philosophy and contains a small bamboo forest, a sandy area, streams all designed to ease people into a state of relaxation. Los Deseos Park, the Intelligent Building,

the Metropolitan Theatre, the Cisneros Park, the Lights Park and the Alpujarra where the government buildings are housed all continue. Upon returning to the centre of the city proceed to the Nutibara hill and enjoy views of the city from an alternate angle as well as a reproduction of a typical “paisa” village. Return to hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Full day El Peñol and Guatapé Leaving Medellín and heading to the town of Guatapé in order to visit the enormous rock. Guatapé is located in the outskirts of Medellín and has a reservoir created by the Colombian government for a hydro-electric dam, in the middle of the reservoir it is the Peñol Rock. The Peñol Rock is possibly a meteorite due to its size. From the top by foot up the stairs if you are full of energy (there are 654 steps to get to the top), the whole Guatapé reservation can be seen, this is an optional activity. Visit the picturesque village of Guatapé where all of the houses are painted in quaint pastel colours. The way to El Peñol takes around 2 hours, during which passengers can appreciate the outstanding landscape of Antioquia. After lunch, visit to the Guatapé reservoir in a 45 minutes boat tour. meals: B / L / -

excursions

day 3 | Medellín After breakfast, transfer to the local airport. meals: B / - / -

ALL DAY SANTA FÉ DE ANTIOQUIA Leaving Medellín to the west and passing the Parque de los Tamarindos before arriving at the Occidente Bridge, a true work of masterful engineering which has permitted the city’s expansion and facilitated its communication with other areas. The story behind this construction is that the engineer José Maria Villa sketched an idea for the project into the sand along the banks of the River Cauca. It was one of the first suspension bridges in South America and travelling along it you can admire the intricate work achieved here with the two towers lashed together with cables holding the whole construction together. After a journey of 1 hour and 15 minutes (70km) arrive in Santa Fe de Antioquia where it feels as if time has stood still since the colonial era. Founded in 1541 by Jorge Robledo this was the capital of Antioquia until 1826 when the government was moved to Medellín. The narrow streets that run alongside the whitewashed buildings are still here for all to see. It is worth visiting the Santa Barbara church, the Museum of Liturgical Art, the Cathedral and the Juan del Corral Museum. After lunch, return to Medellín with a break on the way to visit the small and wonderfully preserved town of San Jerónimo, with its beautiful church and fine examples of architecture from both the Colonial and Republican eras. On the journey back, we will pass vendors selling exotic fruits such

as pineapples, oranges, tamarinds and mangos. Return to Medellín in the evening. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY VISIT TO SEE MEDELLÍN’S SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION Half day tour to visit those places that best represent the social transformation that has taken place in Medellín. The tour will show the symbolic areas of Medellín from the 1980s, when the city was one of the most dangerous in the world, up to today many projects that fostered the city’s change. Enjoy an exciting tour through the history and present of Medellín and learn more about the transformation of this fascinating metropolis. 20 years ago, Medellín was one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Back in the early 90s, when the hunt for Pablo Escobar took place, the head of Medellín’s drug cartel was at its peak. Thus, the reign of “El Patrón” came to its end. Until the turn of the millennium the struggles about Escobar’s successor continued, but since 2002 Medellín began to change. Intelligent local politicians started to invest heavily in infrastructure and public education. Today the “City of Eternal Spring” is one of the most innovative metropolises in the world. Visit the barrio San Javier, which used to be one of the most unsafe suburbs of Medellín Located some 7km from the city centre, it is a clear example of the social transformation that has taken place in

the last few years. Arrive here by the metrocable car that joins the north-east area with the city centre, which has been life changing to many of the inhabitants of Medellín. Learn more about the city’s transformation after the death of Pablo Escobar and also get to know the innovative transport-system in the poorer neighbourhoods at first hand. Explore Medellín’s newest invention: the electric stairways of the district Comuna 13, discover stories about its past by visiting the most important places marked by historical events and see some graffiti that symbolizes a form of expression of the community. Here it is possible to have a beautiful view over the city from the balconies of San Javier. Then, go on to La Plazoleta located in the city centre, in an area that fell into decline in the 1980s and today houses 23 sculptures of Fernando Botero, donated by this famous local artist in year 2000. Since that time, the city has undergone a social and cultural transformation around these works placed in a public space. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. OPTIONAL: 2 hours visit to Parque Arví, where it is possible to make a walk through a beautiful forest and appreciate the landscape. Also, people can visit a local market with agricultural products, typical from the region. NOTE: Closed on Monday.

colombian journeys CITY

HALF DAY FLOWER EXPERIENCE IN SANTA ELENA The city of Medellín is rightly famous for its comfortable climate, hardworking people and for its flower industry and so, just one hour from the city is the town of Santa Elena, in the heart of the traditional flower cultivating region. Santa Elena is also famous for its “silleteros” who display the area’s floral wealth each year in the Feria de las Flores in Medellín. “Silletas” are huge decorative tableaus put together with flowers from the farmer’s own garden and then carried on their backs. When the Silleteros march in the parade it is the most important event during the Feria de las Flores and is a true indication of the importance of their tradition. Our tour begins early in the morning when you will travel to the eastern region of Antioquia along the Corredor de Las Palmas - the highway to the airport - and on the way, visit a traditional artesian market to view local handicrafts and maybe try some local cuisine all the while enjoying the gorgeous countryside found around Medellín in this region of the Andes. Arrive in Santa Elena and immediately visit a family farm to receive an insight into how the silleteros live and how they value their art. One word of warning: as you are in rural Colombia, it is worth remembering that not all of the roads are paved. Here you will learn some of the history of the silleteros and that the silletas date back to colonial times

CITY

MEDELLÍN

where Spanish nobles were carried in wooden chairlike structures on the backs of slaves. This tradition no longer exists, only silletas for flowers! Transfer to Medellín. duration: Approximately 4 - 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY COFFEE PROCESS This is your opportunity to delve into and spend a full day exploring Colombia’s vibrant coffee culture. The day will begin with an interactive tour at a traditional coffee farm and learn about how small families are incorporating sustainable practices in coffee production before sampling some of the excellent coffee available. Once you have finished this first experience, you will continue to another coffee farm where you will meet the farmer and learn about his day to day life, see how the seeds are germinated and harvesting process. The main harvest period last for a full year in Colombia, but the main season for this occurs between October and May-June. As most coffee plantations in Colombia produce the coveted Arabica bean you will have the opportunity to enjoy this light tasting coffee which is highly sought after. The whole process from planting to germination takes roughly 75 days and then the seedling is transferred to a nursery in a

plastic bag and placed in partial sunlight. Here the base dries and the seedling is planted in the ground. The coffee bean harvest will take place two years later. Workers pick the coffee beans, strip away the pulp (the large producers now have machines for this process), clean the beans and then leave them to sun dry. The coffee beans are then prepared for exportation and sale and toasted and then ground up and made ready for consumption. After this full explanation and the tour, you will enjoy a traditional lunch prepared on the farm and during which you will be able to converse with and enjoy hearing about the lives of the farmer and his wife. After lunch, you will finish this excursion receiving an explanation of the toasting, threshing and bean selection process. Return to Medellín. duration: Approximately 14 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

CALI

antiago de Cali is the capital city of the department of Valle del Cauca located in southwestern Colombia. The city enjoys a year-round spring-like climate and is known for its friendly and openly hospitable citizens. Salsa music echoes through Cali’s streets and for this reason it is known as the “capital of salsa”. The third largest city in Colombia behind Bogotá and Medellín, Cali’s major industry revolves around sugar production and cattle ranching making it an important industrial and commercial hub. Cali was founded by Sebastián de Belalcázar on July 25, 1536 and was a pivotal city during the colonial era of the sugarcane and cotton industries. Cali’s name can be broken down into two, the “Santiago” comes from the saint and “Cali” has several possible interpretations possibly coming from the local indigenous Quechua dialect used by the Yanacona tribe brought up here from Ecuador by the Spaniard Sebastián de Belalcázar. Today Cali remains important due to its coffee and vineyard agricultures. It is also geographically important as the city which links the major Pacific port of Buenaventura to the rest of the country. The pacific port of Buenaventura is the largest port on Colombia’s west coast and the point from which most exports leave the country to destinations all over the world.

distance 1:05 HOURS FLIGHT from bogotá airport + 20 MIN ROAD TRIP FROM CALI AIRPORT

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2 days - 1 night day 1 | Cali Arrival to Cali’s airport, reception and private transport to hotel. The third largest city in Colombia, Santiago de Cali is the capital of the department of Valle del Cauca and is a city that enjoys a warm climate, as well as being known for its exciting salsa and warm hospitality due to its friendly and good-natured citizens. In the afternoon, half day visit to the most important historic and cultural sights in the city such as the Enrique Buenaventura Municipal Theatre, built in the XIX century and known as being of a creole yet classic design with a capacity for 1200 spectators;

the Proartes House; the Cultural Center; the Calima Gold Museum, known for its fine golden ceremonial ornaments created by the Calima people in preHispanic times; and finally up the mountain to a viewpoint in Cali’s historical San Antonio district to enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city and visit the nearby antique church of the same name. The San Antonio Church houses some well preserved and interesting artwork and wooden sculptures from the Escuela de Quito. The visit continues on to the Sebastián de Belalcázar Church and La Ermita Church. Other interesting sights in the city are included

such as the architectural complex of “La Merced”, the first construction in the city; the Plazoleta de San Francisco, striking with its Mudejar style tower; the Plaza de Caycedo, the city’s main square; La Tertulia Museum; and the monument to Cristo Rey on the Cerro los Cristales. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / - / -

HALF DAY TO GUADALAJARA DE BUGA AND THE BASILICA Leave for the town of Guadalajara de Buga, also known as the “la ciudad señorial” or “stately city” of Colombia. This is one of Colombia’s most important religious centres and attracts many pilgrims who every day visit the Miraculous Christ of Buga. Visit the imposing Basilica and the Museum of the Miraculous. Then visit the historical town of Buga founded in 1555 by Captain Giraldo Gil de Estupiñán. This town has a well preserved historical center with numerous churches and important colonial buildings. You will have time to participate in mass, to go up to the Camarín, to confess or to make shopping of religious articles. Return to Cali. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

sugar cane producing plant which is a perfectly preserved ranch that comprises of wonderful old and traditional gardens as well as the original antique furniture within the house. It houses the “Casa Museo de la Caña” (Sugar Cane Museum) where you will learn about the natural, scientific and cultural histories behind the process. Continuing to Hacienda Paraíso, where the soap opera Maria was filmed, an adaptation of the Jorge Isaacs novel that tells the story of bourgeois society in the Valle del Cauca. After a traditional lunch, return to Cali. duration: Approximately 7 or 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

orchestra making for one large celebration. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the evening.

ALL DAY TOUR TO THE SUGARCANE PLANTATIONS All day in the countryside surrounding Cali, the largest sugar cane producing region in the country. Visit the Pie de Chinche Hacienda, a traditional

NIGHT OF SALSA AND STYLE IN “EL DELIRIO” Some of the city’s most vibrant popular culture is expressed through salsa rhythms and demonstrated in one of the world’s most famous live acts, EL DELIRIO. Here you will find yourself involved in what seems like a circus display, spectacular Caleño dancing, the creativity of the city’s salsa schools all of which is set to the music of a fantastic live

day 2 | Cali Breakfast and transfer to the airport. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

NOTE: Available every last Friday of the month. There are other shows available at different days of the week.

SALSA CLASSES IN CALI Salsa has, over the years, become a unique unifying and expressive form of celebration. It is also considered a healthy form of entertainment that allows one to keep in shape while permitting your body to express itself through dance. Salsa classes are conducted by the best dance teachers in the city. Recognized dancers who have travelled the world will coach and educate you in a patient and confident manner to surely impart some of the secrets of Caleño dance. duration: Approximately 3 hours (2 hours of dance class). schedule: To be arranged from Monday to Friday. guide: Private bilingual speaking Salsa teacher.

colombian journeys CITY

BARRANQUILLA T

he city of Barranquilla is known as the golden gate of Colombia due to its importance as one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean during the XX Century. It is located 13km inland from the Caribbean Sea and at the mouth of the Magdalena River which slices Colombia in half from north to south. Barranquilla was the first city in Colombia to use the telephone, the first traffic lights and many other inventions. With such advances it quickly became the most cosmopolitan city in Colombia welcoming foreigners from all over the world. The area of Barranquilla was first settled by the indigenous Kamash people. The city itself was never formally founded but the universally agreed date for this event is 1629 and the first reference to the area in Spanish chronicles was made by Gonzalo Fernández de Oviedo y Valdés in 1533 in which he describes the journey made by Pedro de Heredia, the founder of Cartagena, and the mention made of an interesting region that would make for a good port. In the XIX century Barranquilla became Colombia’s principal port and by the mid-20th century it had become the fastest growing Colombian city. However, with the economic slowdown in the 1980s Barranquilla fell into a recession from which it has been recovering ever since. In addition to being known for the generosity of its inhabitants the city is most famous for its Carnival celebrations. This is one of the main festivals in Colombia and the second largest Carnival in South America behind only that of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The streets are transformed into a mass of dancing bodies united in infectious celebration and you can witness indigenous, African and other dances from a shared yet mixed heritage. It is for this reason that this unique celebration has been declared as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

distance 1:30 HOURS FLIGHT from bogotá airport ºC

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Barranquilla Arrive at the airport, transfer to hotel and check in. half day scenic visit in Barranquilla starting in the north, in the historic El Prado district with its American and European style architecture. Continuing to the river and seaport of Barranquilla, it is the northern port of Colombia and South America continent and is located on the bank of Magdalena River and few kilometres away from the sea. It represents a key point for the national economy. Then, visit the Museo Romántico, a republican house with exhibits related to the history of Barranquilla; the Teatro Municipal de la Rosa, which is 28 years old and was named like to live up the poet and dramatist Amira Arrieta, the author of

the city’s hymn; and the Parque de los Fundadores de la Aviación. Return to hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Barranquilla - Usiacuri - Barranquilla After breakfast, Half day visit to Usiacuri, one of the oldest settlements on the Atlantic coast and home to the most important indigenous reservation in this region. Located 38km southeast from Barranquilla it is blessed with an average year-round temperature of 27.5º C. Usiacuri was discovered in 1533 by the Spaniard Francisco César. The curious name “Usiacuri” can be divided into two words to establish its meaning, “Usia” which means “Lord” and “Curi” which was the name of the chieftain who inhabited

this place. Usiacuri gained a certain national and international notoriety for the existence of medicinal waters which heal hundreds of ailing people every year who come here to have their ills cured in the curative sulphurous waters. Once in Usiacuri visit the Casa Museo Julio Flórez, one of the most important poets from the Atlantic coast. He died here, and his former home is now a Casa Museo where his belongings are kept and displayed in addition to further local handicrafts mad from the iraca palm. With this iraca palm the majority of the female population here spend their time making purses, baskets, picture frames, place mats and all sorts of household wares. These handicrafts are a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and has been maintained solvent due to the creation of cooperatives, school electives and microenterprise opportunities. The commercialization of these handicrafts has, combined with tourism, provided the local inhabitants and artisans with an industry here in the department of Atlántico. The visit continues to the blue and white-colored church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, built in a colonial style, located on the top of a little mountain that is the highest point of Usiacuri at an altitude of 250m. Then, move on to a nature preserve known for its well waters well springs of mineral and medicinal cold springs, located around 4 kms from town. Once inside the dry tropical forest it is possible to observe the native flora and fauna and swim in waters from seven different sources, each one rich in its own varying amounts of minerals. After the bath, return to Barranquilla. Return to hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Barranquilla Breakfast and transfer to the airport. meals: B / - / -

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colombian journeys CITY

SAN ANDRÉS, & PROVIDENCIA

SANTA CATALINA T

he archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina is located to the northwest of the Colombian mainland in the Caribbean and was declared a UNESCO Biosphere reserve in 2000. It is believed that the islands were first discovered by Christopher Columbus on his second journey and then they were administered by the English from 1631. This led to a period of colonization, in particular, by people of African descent. In 1670 the infamous pirate Henry Morgan established his base on the island of Providencia and there are still some who believe the legends that some of his treasures remain buried here. Due to the history of the archipelago the language spoken on the islands is a patois, the mixture of English and Spanish. For many reasons the archipelago is a combination of backgrounds; it is geographically close to the coast of Nicaragua; has strong historical ties to England and politically makes up part of Colombia. For all of the aforementioned reasons the archipelago has many cultural contrasts to compliment the breathtaking scenery which all make this an interesting yet paradisaical destination set to the lilting rhythms of reggae. The average water temperature all year round oscillates between 27 and 29 ºC. San Andrés is the largest island in the archipelago and is the administrative and financial centre and has drawn in tourists for several decades. It is well known for its beaches, some with pink coral in the sand, the sea of seven colours with its clear turquoise blue waters in varying tones, its points of interest such as Johnny Cay found just a ten-minute boat ride from San Andrés, Morgan’s Cave, where supposedly the pirate hid some treasures and other fantastic places. Providencia offers similar beautiful landscapes and it makes up part of the second largest coral reef in the northern hemisphere. The island is known for its colonial history, its inhabitants, its Caribbean style colourful wooden slat houses and its tranquillity. The island is a 20-minute flight from San Andres or an 8-hour boat ride. The 17km2 of empty bays found here make this an ideal location for enjoying the sea and the beach, perfect for relaxing or water sports such as scuba diving or snorkelling. Santa Catalina is another small island in the Caribbean and is connected to Providencia by a colourfully painted wooden bridge. There are 57 different types of coral here, 12 species of mangrove, three types of marine plants and four types of sea turtles that lay their eggs in this area. It is as if the island is situated surrounded by some of the most beautiful and complex coralline formations in the world.

distance 1:10 HOURS FLIGHT from bogotá airport ºC

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4 days - 3 nights

SAN ANDRÉS day 1 | Bogotá or Cartagena - San Andrés Island Arrival at the airport, transfer to the hotel and check in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / days 2 & 3 | San Andrés Island Free days to enjoy the beach and the activities available; such as an all day boat excursion to the Cay Aquarium also known as Haynes Cay. This place gets its name from the ring of coral that has

4 days - 3 nights been created making a natural aquarium full of multicoloured tropical fish. After a snorkel here continue to Johnny Cay with its famed white sands and clear waters where palm trees heavy with coconuts line the shore. This island is inhabited by locals who idly listen on to upbeat Caribbean tunes. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | San Andrés Island Breakfast and transfer to the airport. meals: B / - / -

PROVIDENCIA & SANTA CATALINA day 1 | San Andrés - Providencia Leave from San Andrés airport on a 20-minute flight to Providencia. Arrival, transfer to hotel and checkin. Free remainder of the day for beach activities. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Providencia Breakfast and free day for spending time on the beach or exploring other beaches on the island. We suggest that you visit Santa Catalina Island which is connected to Providencia by a beautiful and brightly painted wooden bridge called the “Puente de Amor” or take a boat ride to explore the hidden bays on the island. Declared a protected biosphere by UNESCO this is one of the most accessible and well-preserved coral reefs in the world. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Providencia Breakfast and free day for spending time on the beach or exploring other beaches on the island. We can recommend the hike up to the “Peak” a 360m high point on the island to admire fine 360-degree view of the island, the coral reefs and the multicoloured sea. Most of the freshwater found on the island is found here on this mountain. On the hike you will walk through a rainforest that is home to many species of tropical birds. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

excursions

day 4 | Providencia - San Andrés Breakfast in the hotel and transfer to the airport for flight to San Andrés. meals: B / - / -

SAN ANDRÉS HALF DAY ECO-ADVENTURE Start the excursion with an ecological walk through the beautiful vegetation of the island to appreciate the flora and fauna typical to the Caribbean. After a break, continue by bus to take a kayak tour around the mangroves, a habitat known for having a great variety of birds. After spending some time enjoying the sea, return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Bilingual guide. EXCURSION IN CATAMARAN Enjoy a beautiful and nature-full excursion in catamaran or a sail boat, which will take your through the waters bordering the mangroves which make part of the Natural Park of Old Point Bay and Hooker Bay. Learn about the vegetation of the park, the different types of jellyfish. Enjoy the beach and return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 1 hour. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

HALF DAY ISLAND TOUR Visit the area of San Luis, also known as Bahía Sonora for the sound of the waves breaking on to the coral reef. San Luis is known for its long and white sandy beaches and also for its traditional English style wooden houses. The trip continues with a journey into the interior of the island where you can see the Vieja Iglesia (the old church), Morgan’s Cave, the Blow Hole (quite literally a blow hole!), a geographical formation where the rock has been eroded to allow the water to exit directly upwards as if in a spout. duration: Approximately 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private or SIB. SEMISUBMARINE TOUR SAN ANDRÉS ISLAND This is an unforgettable experience which allows an up close and personal view of the island’s aquatic life from a semi-submersible submarine with a glass bottom. Spend 2 hours in this submarine taking in the marine life and bathing in the sea. duration: Approximately 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: SIB services.

PROVIDENCIA & SANTA CATALINA HALF DAY MC BEAN LAGOON NATIONAL PARK Enjoy a half day at the McBean Lagoon National Natural Park where it is possible to admire the seven colours sea. Explore the park from the peak of Iron Wood Hill which has an altitude of 150 meters above sea level, to the coral reefs, which houses a great variety of marine species. During the walk through this path you will cross natural streams, mangroves, beaches and finally enjoy of the sea. duration: Approximately 4 hours. guide: SIB service and bilingual guide. ALL DAY TOUR PROVIDENCIA AND SANTA CATALINA All day excursion around Providencia Island. Visit the fresh water reserves in Aguadulce mountain. Then head on to the old town of Santa Isabel in the centre of the island, visit Santa Catalina by crossing the “Puente de Amor”. Continue on to the ruins of Fort Warwick before trying out the beach at Manzanillo Beach. Free time at Bahía Cristal for a swim in the clear blue waters. During this excursion also visit a marine turtle and iguana hatchery.

colombian journeys SEA

duration: Approximately 7 hours. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY WALK TO THE “PEAK” In the morning leave for a hike up to the highest point on the island known as the “Peak”. This is 360m above sea level and from the top you will enjoy 360-degree views of the islands and the multicoloured collage of the sea and the extensive coral reefs. The majority of the freshwater found on the island is produced here from various sources. On the return hike walk through a rainforest which is spectacular as it is home to many different species of tropical birds. duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours. guide: Private bilingual guide.

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SAN ANDRÉS & PROVIDENCE

HALF DAY BOAT TOUR Leaving in the morning on a boat tour around the island. Short break to visit the island of Santa Catalina, which is separated from Providencia by a beautiful brightly colored bridge known as the “Puente de Amor”. The channel which separates the two islands was artificially created by pirates to defend the island better. Santa Catalina is a true treasure island and was the headquarters for the famed pirate Henry Morgan. From the boat see Morgan’s Head, a wave eroded rock formation. Break in the islet of Cayo Cangrejo to be able to enjoy a full 360 degree view of the multi colored waters here. Near to Cayo Cangrejo there are three small islands called the “Tres Hermanos” or Three Brothers which are important

nesting sites for birds. Free time for snorkelling. Visit to Playa Manzanillo, a magical place which is atmospheric inasmuch as it is beautiful, which in the evening turns into one of the favorite spots to listen to reggae music. Later, continue to Southwest beach to have lunch. Return to hotel. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged.

CARTAGENA DE INDIAS F

ounded in 1533 on an original indigenous Caribe settlement, the Spanish conquistador Don Pedro de Heredia founded the city of “Cartagena de Poniente” to distinguish it from “Cartagena de Levante” in Spain. Later the city became known as “Cartagena de Indias”, a name which remained until the end of the colonial era and the beginning of the Republic. This colonial city rapidly became the gem in the Spanish Crown’s territories. It was fortified between the XIV and XIX centuries and in order to protect it from the continual attacks by foreign buccaneers and pirates and when these fortifications were completed, it was the most impenetrable and largest in the Americas. Cartagena was the first province of the Nuevo Reino de Granada which gained its independence from Spain on the 11th of November 1811 and the city still boasts architectural treasures in its civil, domestic, religious, military and governmental constructions. Just walking through its narrow yet remarkable streets there is enough to understand why Cartagena is in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This colonial area is split into three zones, the Centro, San Diego (both inside the wall city) and Getsemaní. This whole city harks back to a time when pirates routinely attacked the bay and when the Spanish Inquisition executed a great number of slaves accused of witchcraft; furthermore, strict rules were installed by the Dominicans who had the right to cast judgment over whomever they wished. Perhaps the real joy of Cartagena is exploring its streets on foot, an experience that awakens all five senses with the rhythms of cumbia and mapalé, with the flavours of the Caribbean, the blend of the natural world against the variations in architecture all the while buffeted by a Caribbean breeze making the city an incredibly romantic destination. To one side of the centre of the city is Bocagrande, a long spit of land that is home to the majority of modern buildings and hotels, connected to the barrios of El Laguito and Castillo Grande which make up part of today’s modern city. The outstanding beaches of the Islas del Rosario, Barú and Playa Blanca are located at approximately 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena. Culturally, Cartagena is renowned for its International Cinema Festival (FICC); it is the host city of the Hay Festival in January and is the seat of the National Beauty Pageant each November, the same month as the city’s independence celebrations. The cultural wealth that Cartagena enjoys is a result of the mix in backgrounds of the city’s inhabitants and its architectural beauty. The sea and the warm afternoon winds make Cartagena one of the Caribbean’s most fascinating cities.

distance 1:10 HOURS FLIGHT from bogotá airport ºC

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4 days - 3 nights day 1 | Cartagena Arrival at Cartagena airport, transfer to hotel and check in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / D day 2 | Cartagena - Half Day Panoramic city tour After breakfast, half day visit in Cartagena starting with a panoramic view of the city from La Popa Monastery and Church. Formerly known as the

“Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at an eight of 140 m.a.m.s.l. from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honour of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from

pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn about how the castle was constructed, the feats of engineering, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convent and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the apostle of the slaves. Lastly, head to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center in which to appreciate local handcrafts. Return to the hotel and free remainder of the day for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Cartagena Free day for individual activities or explore the area on your own. meals: B / - / OPTIONAL: All day excursion by boat to the Archipiélago del Rosario, located one hour from Cartagena (25 miles). The national park is ringed by coral reefs and lapped by clear blue waters and is the habitat for a large variety of marine fauna. Free time for snorkelling and relaxation. Lunch during the excursion. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.

excursions

day 4 | Cartagena Breakfast and transfer to airport. meals: B / - / HALF DAY IN PALENQUE Depart in the morning and head to San Basilio de Palenque, a town located 60km away from Cartagena and at approximately 1 hour’s drive along the Vía de la Cordialidad on the way to Barranquilla. Recognized by the UNESCO as Cultural and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, the town’s name comes from the Palenques, communities of fugitive and escaped slaves from the colonial period of the XVII century. Upon arrival in Palenque there will be a tour of the town square, where you will meet a local guide who will take you to visit a typical house and taste an authentic Colombian coffee served in traditional utensils by the ancestors, called “Totumas”. Followed by this, the guide will narrate in first place the process of liberation from bondage and second how the town has preserved their customs to this day. Then walk around the town to see representative sites such as La Casa de la Cultura and Plaza Benkos Bioho, which takes its name from the Founder of San Basilio de Palenque also known as Domingo Biohó, a leader who led a rebellion of slaves in Colombia during the seventeenth century. Continue with a visit to the main church and to the statue of Antonio Cervantes Reyes “Kid Pambele” who was twice boxing world champion. Then visit the charismatic community leader, farmer, singer and composer Rafael Cassiani, considered the most important

musician of San Basilio de Palenque. Cassiani has a great musical knowledge, he plays several musical instruments and he is an innate musician, everything he knows and plays, he has learned empirically, without going to college. Finally, learn about the ingredients and how to prepare the typical regional sweets by the hand of one of the best women cooks of the community who will be wearing their traditional Palenquero costumes. Return to Cartagena. duration: Approximately 6 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. LA BOQUILLA HALF DAY TOUR Leave Cartagena and travel for approximately 20 minutes to the small fishing village on the outskirts of Cartagena known as “La Boquilla”. Here you will be introduced to the authentic local culture and will have the opportunity to enjoy a canoe trip out through the mangroves and marvel at this incredible and varied ecosystem with its rich flora and fauna. The canoe trip takes toughly 45 minutes and upon return to La Boquilla you will have time to visit the village on foot. duration: Approximately 4 hours (6 hours with Playa de Oro and lunch option). schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

OPTIONAL: Tour to Playa de Oro and lunch. For passengers that wish to take this option, following the excursion to the mangroves the passengers will continue on canoe to Playa de Oro where passengers will stay for approximately 1 hour, have the opportunity to swim and then return to La Boquilla for lunch.

HALF DAY VISIT THE NATIONAL AVIARY OF COLOMBIA Just 50 minutes outside of Cartagena on the highway to Barú is the National Aviary of Colombia - a must for birding enthusiasts. Spread over seven hectares, each region of Colombia is represented here and there is an emphasis on education, conservation, reproduction and in some cases, the repopulation of Colombia’s avifauna. All practices here are sustainable and animal welfare is responsibly managed. You will visit each of the six ecosystems represented and will learn about the 1,800 or 135 species of birds that make their home here. Return to Cartagena. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY CITY TOUR BY BIKE Your tour begins in the center of Cartagena’s old town and you will cycle leisurely past all the main attractions and landmarks with the opportunity

colombian journeys SEA

to stop on various occasions to hear about their importance and take photos. The tour includes the traditional neighbourhood of Getsemaní, an area where Florentino Ariza, a main character from Nobel prize winning author Gabriel García Márquez’s beloved novel, Love in the Time of the Cholera, lived. After Getsemaní you will cycle across the Roman Bridge the district of Manga, passing by the beautiful Villa Roman, and on to the Manga Cemetery which is the oldest in Cartagena. From here, you will hug the seafront and take in Bocagrande, known as the “little Miami” of Cartagena due to the high-rise glass buildings and its North American ambiance. You will finish the tour by returning to the old city center. duration: 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private Bilingual guide. Includes bike rental. difficulty level: Low. NOTES: This tour can also be offered with E-bikes for an additional charge.

ALL DAY ARCHIPIELAGO ISLAS DEL ROSARIO NATIONAL PARK All day excursion to one of the islands of the Archipiélago del Rosario, located approximately 1 hour (45km) by boat from Cartagena. During the transfer, observe the impressive and beautiful landscapes of the islands with its clear waters and gentle breezes. Upon arrival to one of these islands, you will have free time to enjoy the beach, snorkel (not included) and relax. Lunch is served on the island and in the afternoon, return to Cartagena. The Rosario and San Bernardo National Park is located in the Caribbean Sea and is ringed by coral reefs and lapped by clear blue waters and is the habitat for a large variety of marine fauna. Three ecosystems thrive here: coastal lagoons, the mangroves surrounding them, and tropical forest and the average yearround temperature is 24.7 ºC. In addition, this is one of 46 National Parks in Colombia and it was created to protect one of the most important coral reefs bordering the Colombian Caribbean coastline: the Nuestra Señora del Rosario archipelago as well as the islands of Tesoro, Rosario, Barú, Múcura and Maravilla. Covering 120,000 hectares, the park consists of 23 coral islands and islets were formed some 5000 years ago, due to ancient volcanic activity that pushed up the continental shelf and create these coral reefs. duration: Approximately 7 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private services. NOTES: This excursion can be offered in different islands and the place where it is taken varies according to the confirmation. On the return trip the boat will be going against the current, so it is possible for some water to splash into the boat. This being said, passengers may get wet. We suggest for you to sit on the right side of the boat.

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ALL DAY IN CARTAGENA In the morning, start with a panoramic view of the city from La Popa Monastery and Church. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140 meters above sea level from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe Fortress, erected in honour of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa” It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn how the castle was constructed, the feats of engineering, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then continue on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convent and Church of San Pedro Claver which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, continue to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center where one can appreciate local handcrafts. After lunch, visit the city’s colonial district, starting in Bolivar Park, shaded by large trees and with four fountains the park has a statue of the great Liberator Simon Bolivar at its center. Around the square is the Gold Museum, which exhibits a fine collection of archaeological objects dating back to the pre-Hispanic period; and the Inquisition Palace, recognized for its large baroque style door. The Inquisition held its meetings here and it was also the prison and torture chamber for presumed heretics, opponents of the Catholic Church. The visit continues to the Santo Domingo Church, the Cathedral and ends at the City’s Fortifications. Return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY COOKING BAZURTO CARTAGENA Start the tour with a traditional dish and beverage from Cartagena in the Bazurto local market. Continue to search out the ingredients for lunch around the most typical and colourful local market; visit the small shops of fish, vegetables, fruits, species and grains. Continue on this cultural journey through music and art stores, where in each you will find inspiration for your lunch. Then, meet and greet with traditional cooks and then transfer to historic center. Before the cooking class you will receive a welcoming beverage. During the class everyone participates through all the lunch preparation including starter, main dish and non-alcoholic drink. After this enjoy a variety of typical desserts. Transfer to hotel. duration: 5 hours. schedule: To be confirmed in the morning. distance: Less than 1km.

HALF DAY COLONIAL CITY TOUR AND MUSEUMS Half day visit to the city’s colonial district, starting in Bolivar Park, shaded by large trees and with four fountains the park is watched over by a statue of the great Liberator at its centre. Around the square is the Gold Museum, which exhibits a fine collection of archaeological objects dating back to the pre-Hispanic period and the Inquisition Palace, recognized for its large baroque style door. The Inquisition held its meetings here and it was also the prison and torture chamber for presumed heretics, opponents of the Catholic Church. The visit continues to the Santo Domingo Church, the Cathedral and ends at the Terraplenes and the Museum of the City’s Fortifications. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. NIGHT TIME CARRIAGE TOUR AND DINNER Take a magical evening tour of the Walled City stepping back in time and enjoying the sights from an open horse drawn carriage. The sound of the horse’s hooves, the feel of the refreshing breeze, the night time colours of Cartagena, the architecture and the generally beautiful and atmospheric scenery makes the visitor feel as if he or she is part of a film. Appreciate the many squares of the historic district and pass by the elegant colonial houses with their balconies filled with tumbling bougainvillea flowers. Watch Cartagena by night as tourists fill the streets. Later enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and return to the hotel in a private car transfer. duration: Approximately 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the evening. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: Available from all hotels in Bocagrande and the Colonial district. For hotels in Manzanillo a transfer to the colonial district is required.

S O U T H A M E R I C A’ S L E A D I N G H E R I T A G E H O T E L 2 0 1 9

Centro Histórico, Cra 3 No 31 -23 – Plaza Santa Teresa, Cartagena - Colombia P| +57 (5) 664 9494 – E| centralreservation@hotelescharleston.com www.hotelcharlestonsantateresa.com

ROSARIO islands & BARÚ T

he Rosario and San Bernardo National Park is a Caribbean marine national park, some 45km to the southeast of the bay of Cartagena at approximately 1 hour away by boat. The average year-round temperature is a tropical 24.7 ºC. This is one of 46 national parks in Colombia and it was created to protect one of the most important coral reefs bordering the Colombian Caribbean coastline. The park covers 120,000 hectares and comprises the underwater shelf and the coral reefs to the west of the island of Barú, the reef that shields the Nuestra Señora del Rosario archipelago as well as the islands of Tesoro, Rosario, Múcura and Maravilla. The 23 coral islands and islets were formed relatively recently some 5000 years ago due to ancient volcanic activity that pushed up the continental shelf therefore creating the ideal situation for the creation of these coral reefs. Three ecosystems thrive here: coastal lagoons and the mangroves surrounding them and tropical forest. Barú Island is on the nearside of the Rosario National Park at approximately 40 minutes from the bay of Cartagena by boat or 2 to 3 hours by land. Within its 7000 hectares are the beautiful towns of Ararca, Santa Ana and white sandy beaches such as Playa Blanca, Playita de Cholón, Playa de los Muertos and Playa Bobo. All of these are blessed with clear turquoise waters and surrounded with multi-coloured mangroves and dreamlike landscapes where the locals serve up and offer you delicious platters of lobster and shellfish while welcoming you to their home. The native Indians of this area are descendants of the Carib people that were the first inhabitants of the Rosario Islands and Barú in pre-Columbian times. Later, during the colonial period the islands were peopled by black slaves, brought from Africa, who dedicated their time to fishing and the gathering of molluscs. Today, these islands are a chosen destination for tourism of an exclusive nature.

distance 1:20 hours FLIGHT from CARTAGENA Airport + 1:30 HOURS BOAT ºC TRANSFER 25 FROM CARTAGENA

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Cartagena - Rosario Islands & Barú Transfer in a regular or private boat to the hotel of your choice on the Rosario or Barú Island. After roughly 1-hour boat trip, arrival and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Rosario Islands & Barú Free day to relax on the beach. If you are on Barú it

is recommend the beaches of Playa Blanca, Playita de Cholón, Playa de los Muertos and Playa Bobo. On the Rosario Islands, we recommend you visit the reef of the archipelago of Nuestra Señora del Rosario as well as the islands of Tesoro, Múcura and Maravilla. Enjoy snorkelling and other water sports, observation of the local flora and fauna and scuba diving amongst other things. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

day 3 | Rosario Islands & Barú - Cartagena In the afternoon, departure by boat to Cartagena. Upon arrival at Cartagena pier, transfer to the airport or to your hotel selected. meals: B / - / NOTE: In Barú Island Full Board option only.

colombian journeys SEA

SANTA MARTA

ounded on July 29, 1525 by the Spanish Conquistador Rodrigo de Bastidas, Santa Marta was the first city in Colombia and therefore it is the oldest in South America. It was the port of entry for those looking to conquer the New World. Its privileged location was chosen for its security and for its beauty, between the Caribbean Sea and the lush Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where the twin peaks of the highest coastal mountains in the world, Simón Bolívar and the Cristóbal Colón, at 5770m above sea level tower over proceedings. There is a vast array of flora and fauna as well as the proximity to the Tayrona National Park, all which make this not only culturally rich but a supremely attractive and desirable place to visit. The Tayrona indigenous people strongly resisted the conquistadores but by the end of the VXII Century most of their treasures had been moved to Spanish chests. Santa Marta boasts a great wealth of history as is here that the first President of Gran Colombia and hero of the independence movement Simón Bolívar passed away on the 17th of December 1830. It happened in a hacienda that still exists called the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. Nowadays, this hacienda acts as a museum exhibiting the history of the great Liberator and is surrounded by beautiful and lush gardens with monuments and many trees. Approximately 15 minutes northeast from Santa Marta, a zigzag route brings you to a characteristic fishing village of Taganga. Nestled deep in a bay and surrounded by green mountainous vegetation, the landscape here is one of contrasting colours, the blues of the sea washing onto the beach, making this a magical and unforgettable destination. Observe the traditional fishing practices of the locals, view their canoes and see that all knowledge here has been passed down from generation to generation. This is a particularly good location for water-sports such as snorkelling and diving and is the departure point for boat trips to Playa Blanca, so named for the colour of the sand here. It is easy to reach different beaches of Tayrona National Park as well as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, from Santa Marta or Taganga, by travelling just 45 minutes.

distance 1:30 hours FLIGHT from Bogotá Airport ºC

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Santa Marta - Half Day City Tour Arrival to Santa Marta Airport and transfer to the hotel. Then, half day visit of the colonial area and the oldest city in Colombia.Starting in the Bay of Santa Marta; continue to the Monument to the Tayrona gods and learn more about this culture that existed in that region long before the arrival of the Spanish; visit the Casa de la Aduana Museum, which makes up part of the Anthropologic and Ethnographic Museum where there is a fine collection of Tayrona artefacts and then on to the Cathedral. Later, travel out to the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino with its beautiful gardens and where the great liberator Simón Bolívar passed away in 1830. Finally enjoy a scenic tour of the bays of Rodadero and the fishing village of Taganga. Return to hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / - / -

ALL DAY IN TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK - ARRECIFES BEACH Leaving in the morning from Santa Marta or Taganga to the northeast on the way to Riohacha, to Tayrona National Park. The National Park is at the foot of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and covers an area of 17,000 km2 including dreamlike white sandy beaches lapped by turquoise blue waters, coral reefs, huge ocean boulders, densely rich jungle vegetation, mangroves and of course the famous Ciudad Perdida or Lost City. From here enjoy a light hike through the forest and its different micro climates. Birds are in abundance and on some occasions, it might be possible to see squirrels and monkeys playing in the trees. After roughly a 45-minute walk arrive at Arrecifes, one of the park’s most scenic and beautiful areas, which will astound you with its beauty and drama with restless seas crashing on huge boulders. Continue by walking along the coast to La Piscina, a naturally calm stretch of beach ideal for bathing. Enjoy a free time in the beach to rest or take a bath. Return to Santa Marta or Taganga the same way. duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.

day 2 | Full Day Tayrona Leaving in the morning from Santa Marta or Taganga to the northeast on the way to Riohacha, to Tayrona National Park. The National Park is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and covers an area 17,000 km2 including dreamlike white sandy beaches lapped by turquoise blue waters, coral reefs, huge ocean boulders, densely rich jungle vegetation, mangroves and of course the famous Ciudad Perdida or Lost City. After 40-minute drive, get to the first entry point of the Tayrona National Park called Palangana. Continue along a winding road through the scenic tropical forest before opening out onto what is known as the Sea of the Seven Waves, a natural viewpoint from which one can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Descend to the Neguanje Beach into the Bay of

schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY TO KOGUI SERHVIAKA Take a 1:45 hours journey by car from Santa Marta to Palomino, a town near Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, place where one of the biggest indigenous community of Colombia live. Upon arrival, enjoy an ecological walk for about 2 and a half hour along an indigenous road which leads to Kogui Serhviaka town. Once with the community, learn about their culture and mores, guided by one of its members. Get to know their typical houses called “bohíos”, which are built with mud. Then visit Palomino beaches and then optional tubing activity through Palomino River. Lunch during the excursion. Return by car to Santa Marta. duration: Approximately 12 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY GOTSEZHY INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY Departure approximately at 5:30 a.m. in a 4x4 to

Gayraca and hop onto a local boat where the fishermen will then sail around the cove to Playa Cristal. This beach stands out for its extraordinary beauty and is the ideal place to enjoy the water, the sun and the opportunity to paddle between the coral reefs here. Return by boat to Gayraca Bay and back to Santa Marta or Taganga the same way.Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 3 | Santa Marta Transfer to the airport. meals: B / - / -

Guachaca village, where an uncovered road begins until you reach a Wiwa Indigenous Community called Gotsezhy. This tour lasts approximately 2 hours. Arrival at Gotsezhy Town at approximately 7:30 a.m. to start a small ecological walk (1 km) through the town where there is a large number of Wiwa Indigenous people living together in community; you will pass through the community school and observe a large number of dwellings (Indigenous Bohíos). There they will be able to interact with members of the Wiwa community and see other important sites in Gotsezhy Village. At the end of the ecological walk you will arrive at the Wiwa Gotsezhy Refuge, a small indigenous community made up of several families, that will make you feel at home, they are all very kind and helpful, and will show you how they live with nature for many years. At approximately 8:00 a.m. you will have breakfast, based on indigenous cuisine and prepared by the community women. Afterwards, visit some ancestral and cultural places accompanied by the MAMO, spiritual leader, and an indigenous guide, who will give you spiritual talks and show you an exhibition of typical Wiwa handicrafts. After having lunch at noon, you can rest in hammocks and then take a walk-through paths full of vegetation and finish with a refreshing swim in the Matuna ancestral waterfall. Return to Gotsezhy, additional time with the Indians and walk back to take the 4x4 vehicle that will take you back to Santa Marta. duration: Approximately 10 hours. schedule: 5:30 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide NOTE: Includes breakfast and lunch. Itinerary may vary according weather conditions.

colombian journeys SEA

Santa Marta. Our “Elderly Brothers” take care of the natural treasure of the sierra, a mountain that in its culture represents the center of the world and source of all life. Even today, they naturally assume the guarantors role of the cosmic balance and are considered one of the most valuable ancestral cultures on the planet. From Santa Marta transfer through the coastal road to Rio Ancho town (90 km, 2 hours). Welcome by a community guide and after a brief talk, start a 9 km hike (approximately 2 hours) through the humid tropical forest, along some parts of Ancho River until you reach the village of Tungueka. After a tour around the village, where you will learn about the way of life

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of this ethnic group, you will have a brief cultural exchange with the authorities of the community. At the edge of the river on a large rock, you will enjoy a delicious Picnic. Return to Santa Marta. duration: Approximately 11 hours. schedule: 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide. ARACATACA - THE ROUTE OF NOBEL Transfer to Aracataca, nearly 2 hours from Santa Marta. Arrive in Aracataca, where the well-known literature Nobel winner prize Gabriel García Márquez was born, mainly recognized for his book One Hundred Years of Solitude amongst others. This place was the

inspiration for some of his literary works. During the tour you visit “Gabo’s” youth and some places which have been described in a selection of his books. The visit includes places such as: the railroad station, Remedios La Bella sculpture, Montessori School where the Nobel studied, the Masonic Lodge building, the Berarcaza family house, Remedios La Bella library, United Fruit Company commissary, a museum in the house of Gabo’s maternal grandparents (Márquez Iguarán), Bolívar square and telegraph house. Return to Santa Marta. duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours. schedule: To be confirmed. services: Private bilingual guide.

93 Luxury Suites

EXPERIENCE THE ART OF LIVING IN BOGOTร

If you wish to enjoy an exclusive stay in Bogota, look no further than 93 Luxury Suites. Strategically located near Parque de la 93, it features a unique Apartment Boutique Hotel concept and is full of luxury and technology. This lodging offers suites from 60 to 140 m2, with 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen and dining room, and are ideal for businesspeople, families, and tourists visiting the city for shorter and longer stays.

OUR B ENEFI TS Member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Domotized suites

Complimentary breakfast in your room

93 Luxury Suites - Carrera 13A Nยบ 93-51. Bogotรก, Colombia. Bookings: +57 (1) 7454430 reservas-93@bluedoors.co www.93luxurysuites.com

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Pet-friendly

TAYRONA T

ayrona National Park is located on the Colombian Atlantic coast a few kilometres from Santa Marta. The park’s boundaries extend from just beyond the bay of Taganga to where the Piedras River opens out into the sea. The National Park covers an area of 15,000 hectares, 75% of which are of land and the remaining are marine. The climate here oscillates between temperate and hot with an average temperature of 25 to 30ºC. One of the main entries to the Park is found at El Zaino, 34km from Santa Marta, from here one can gain access to the bays, natural beaches, coral reefs, mangroves, mountains and exuberant vegetation found within. Many types of animal inhabit this area including more than 100 mammals, 200 birds and numerous reptiles. It makes up part of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a mountain range separate from the Andes that makes for a unique ecosystem that rises up from sea level where there are beaches of fine white sand before passing through tropical forests to snowcapped altitudes of 5,770 m.a.m.s.l. In Tayrona National Park there are various archaeological sites that prove the existence of ancient cultures such as the Tayrona city of “Chairama” (in the indigenous language) or Pueblito, where experts believe that a community of at least 400 indigenous people thrived in the pre-Columbian period. Today there are still points of interest sacred to the Koguis, Arhuacos and Arsarios people. These tribes are all descended from the ancient Tayrona people who were one of the most advanced pre-Columbian tribes to have lived over the centuries in the Sierra Nevada. These towns and cities were joined by Stone pathways which extended from populous mountainsides up to the peaks in the Sierra. They consisted of circular windowless houses with stone terraces, palm roofs and painted with whitewash. The real accomplishment of engineering were the cities that were built upon terraces that were first used for agricultural purposes and then later for homes. These resourceful people channelled the mountain streams through their homes and through their crops to be sure to prevent any land and soil erosion. From the bay of Cañaveral a three-hour hike over stone pathways leads to Pueblito, one of the most well-established Tayrona developments given the prevalence of bridges, channels, terraces and pottery. The beaches of Arrecifes, La Piscina, Cabo de San Juan del Guía and Castilletes are within reach from Cañaveral as well. These beaches are all very distinct, some with still inviting waters, others with turbulent surf and thick with vegetation but all making the visitor feel as if he or she has been transported to another world, one of savage yet paradisaical scenery. In the park itself there are many opportunities to enjoy such activities as mini treks, snorkelling, bird watching, kayaking, horse rental or just contemplate nature.

distance 1:00 hour ROAD TRIP from SANTA MARTA ºC

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4 days - 3 nights day 1 | Santa Marta - Tayrona National Park Arrival at Santa Marta airport and then undertake a roughly 1.15hours transfer to Tayrona National Park along the road that leads to Riohacha on the northeastern Colombian Caribbean coast. Enter the park at El Zaino, one of the main entrances and drive on a further 15 minutes to Cañaveral. Checkin at the Ecohabs. Rest of the day free to relax and overnight day. meals: - / - / -

days 2 & 3 | Tayrona National Park Free days to relax on the beach or enjoy individual activities such as mini treks to Pueblito, snorkelling or rent horses as a means of visiting other beaches. meals: B / - / -

ALL DAY NEGUANJE & PLAYA CRISTAL Leaving by car from Cañaveral in Tayrona National Park to Gayrana Bay. After 40 minutes’ drive, get to the first entry point of the Tayrona National Park called Palangana. Continue along an unpaved road through the scenic tropical forest before opening out onto what is known as the Sea of the Seven Waves, a natural viewpoint from which one can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Descend to Neguanje Beach into the Bay of Gairaca and hop onto a local boat where the fishermen will sail around the cove to Playa Cristal. This beach stands out for its extraordinary beauty and is the ideal place to enjoy the water, the sun and the opportunity to paddle between the coral reefs here. Return by boat to Gayraca Bay and back to Cañaveral inside the Tayrona National Park. duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

Cabo de San Juan de Guía which leaves an indelible mark on your memory due to its enormous boulders. Enjoy free time on the beach to rest or take a dip. Return to Cañaveral in the afternoon. duration: Approximately 9 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

ALL DAY TREKKING TO ARRECIFES AND CABO SAN JUAN Leave from Cañaveral, walking through the forest and its different micro climates. Birds are in abundance and on some occasions, you may be able to see squirrels and monkeys playing in the trees. After roughly 45 minutes walking, arrive at Arrecifes, one of the park’s most scenic and beautiful areas, which will astound you with its beauty and drama with restless seas crashing on huge boulders. Continue on foot along the coast to La Piscina, a naturally calm stretch of beach ideal for bathing. Then, head on to El

day 4 | Tayrona National Park - Santa Marta After breakfast, transfer in the morning to Santa Marta airport. meals: B / - / -

NOTE: This is a reasonably hard trek and requires a degree of physical fitness.

FULL DAY TO KOGUI SERHVIAKA Take a 45 minutes journey by car from Tayrona to Palomino, a town near Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, place where one of the biggest indigenous community of Colombia live. Upon arrival, enjoy an ecological walk for about 2 and a half hours along an indigenous road which leads to Kogui Serhviaka town. Once with the community, learn about their culture and mores, guided by one of its members. Get to know their typical houses called “bohíos”, which are built with mud. Then visit Palomino beaches and then optional tubing activity through Palomino River. Lunch during the excursion. Return by car to the hotel. duration: Approximately 12 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY GOTSEZHY INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY Departure approximately at 6:30 a.m. in a 4x4 to

Guachaca village, where an uncovered road begins until you reach a Wiwa Indigenous Community called Gotsezhy. This tour lasts approximately 1 hour. Arrival at Gotsezhy Town at approximately 7:30 a.m. to start a small ecological walk (1 km) through the town where there is a large number of Wiwa Indigenous people living together in community; you will pass through the community school and observe a large number of dwellings (Indigenous Bohíos). There they will be able to interact with members of the Wiwa community and see other important sites in Gotsezhy Village. At the end of the ecological walk you will arrive at the Wiwa Gotsezhy Refuge, a small indigenous community made up of several families, that will make you feel at home, they are all very kind and helpful, and will show you how they live with nature for many years. At approximately 8:00 a.m. you will have breakfast, based on indigenous cuisine and prepared by the community women. Afterwards, visit some ancestral and cultural places accompanied by the MAMO, spiritual leader, and an indigenous guide, who will give you spiritual talks and show you an exhibition of typical Wiwa handicrafts. After having lunch at noon, you can rest in hammocks and then take a walk-through paths full of vegetation and finish with a refreshing swim in the Matuna ancestral waterfall. Return to Gotsezhy, additional time with the Indians and walk back to take the 4x4 vehicle that will take you back to Tayrona. duration: Approximately 9 - 10 hours. schedule: 6:30 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: Includes breakfast and lunch. Itinerary may vary according weather conditions.

FULL DAY TREKKING TUNGUEKA COMMUNITY The Kogui indigenous ethnic, related to the ancient Tayrona civilization, inhabit the Palomino valleys and Don Diego, San Miguel and Rio Ancho rivers. Its population is estimated at about 10,000 members, all living in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Our “Elderly Brothers” take care of the natural treasure of the sierra, a mountain that in its culture represents the center of the world and source of all life. Even today, they naturally assume the guarantors role of the cosmic balance and are considered one of the most valuable ancestral cultures on the planet. From Tayrona transfer through the coastal road to Rio Ancho town. Welcome by a community guide and after a brief talk, start a 9 km hike (approximately 2 hours) through the humid tropical forest, along some parts of Ancho River until you reach the village of Tungueka. After a tour around the village, where you will learn about the way of life of this ethnic group, you will have a brief cultural exchange with the authorities of the community. At the edge of the river on a large rock, you will enjoy a delicious Picnic. Return to Santa Marta. duration: Approximately 10 hours. schedule: 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide.

colombian journeys SEA

CAPURGANÁ C

apurganá is a small town in the Chocó, on the northwestern coast of the Gulf of Urabá, very near to Panama. This northwestern region of Colombia was inhabited by the Cuna indigenous tribe, for whom it was known as the “land of pepper” or Capurganá in their language. The Cuna populated this land until the early 20th century when they were displaced by settlers from the black-mulatto race expanding west from the city of Cartagena. Nowadays this town is known for its beautiful and calm beaches, surrounded by trees and foliage of one of the densest jungles in the world. In the town of Capurganá itself there are no vehicles because there is no land access due to the density of the Darien Gap. No highway has been constructed to bridge this jungle divide between Central and South America. For this reason, the community has implemented an ingenious form of local transport with horses and carts to move around, making it very environmentally friendly. People who want to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Capurganá will have to arrive by boat or plane. As Capurganá is a coastal town in the tropics, its average temperature all the year is 29ºC, nevertheless it is a very humid zone because of its proximity to the rain-forest. Bring repellent for jungle critters and flashlights/ torches in case of electrical blackouts.

Bahía de Sapzurro Puerto Obadía

Capurganá

El Cielo Acandí El Aguacate

CHOCÓ

distance 1:00 hour FLIGHT from MEDELLÍN TO CAPURGANÁ OR ACANDÍ

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4 days - 3 nights day 1 | Medellín - Acandí - Capurganá Take a flight for roughly 1 hour from Medellín to the town of Acandí, a small town in the northern Chocó. Once in Acandí airport, take your transportation to the pier to take a boat for 30 minutes on a journey that follows the edge of the Gulf of Urabá to Capurganá. Reception and transport to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: - / - / D

excursions

day 2 | Capurganá - Sapzurro - Capurganá Breakfast and then visit to Sapzurro which is

15 minutes away from Capurganá by boat or, alternatively a two-hour long trek through the jungles of the Darien, one of the densest jungles in the world. Sapzurro is a small town in the northern zone of Chocó, bordering Panamá, it has a white sandy beaches and the setting is idyllic. Once in Sapzurro, walk to La Miel Beach in Panama to enjoy the beach, snorkel or simply relax. In the afternoon return to Sapzurro by boat to have a traditional lunch. There will be enough time to rest and enjoy the beach. Return to Capurganá by boat in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D

day 3 | Capurganá Free day to enjoy the beach. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Capurganá - Acandí - Medellín After breakfast, transport to the pier for your boat to Acandí. Then transport to Acandí’s airport for your flight to Medellín. meals: B / - / -

HALF DAY HIKE TO NATURAL RESERVE EL CIELO Darien Nature Reserve is a place surrounded by crystal clear streams, leafy trees and lush jungle wildlife. Take a pleasant walk where you can observe the endemic flora and fauna of the region, and during the tour you will cross the Capurganá River three times. When you get to El Cielo you can enjoy its natural pools of chilly water, visit an open-sky stone grotto and take a bath in a refreshing natural waterfall of fresh water. Return to Capurganá. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Spanish speaking guide.

colombian journeys SEA

LA GUAJIRA T

he Guajira peninsula is the northern most point in Colombia and South America spanning an area of 20,848km2. It is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the North, Venezuela to the East and to the West and South the Colombian Departments of Magdalena and Cesar respectively. This peninsula that makes up the Department of the Guajira is divided into three sections: the lower and south, where the departmental capital of Riohacha is located, it was founded in 1545 as Nuestra Señora Santa María de los Remedios del Cabo de La Vela; Mid Guajira borders Venezuela and Upper Guajira is the dramatic collision point of deserts; and the upper where the ocean creating paradisaical locations such as Cabo de La Vela and Punta Gallinas. The Guajira is a place that never ceases to surprise due to its extreme contrasts: the brilliant white of the vast salt flats of Manaure - small mountains of white salt glistening beneath the merciless sun -, pink ibis with white and black flecks color the sky in cacophonous flight between the lagoons in Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary and then there is the deep black of the coal extracted from the mine at El Cerrejón. Aside from salt and coal the Guajira is bathed by a crystalline sea that laps onto beaches of desert sand. The cacti that grow enhance the justifiably savage imagery and the long rises of the sand dunes are a reminder that this is an inhospitable land of myths and legends. The Wayúu indigenous people of the Guajira and their legends make this territory all the more intriguing. They are nomads who live autonomously across the porous border that divides Venezuela and Colombia with no concern for national frontiers. The Wayúu are a matriarchal society organized into clans and that place supreme importance in their traditions, in particular that of the “palabrero” who is designated to resolve conflicts between the clans. Wayúu men are polygamous but before entering into a marriage the man has to reach an agreement with the bride’s family regarding a dowry of goats and precious stones. The Wayúu live in what are known as “Rancherias” small communities made up of family members that dedicate their time to fishing and weaving. This region is renowned for producing colourful handmade hammocks and “mochilas” of resounding beauty and artistry. Visiting the Guajira is an immersion into a local culture rich in traditions, simplicity and native customs. Things here in Colombia’s “wild east” are tough but the basics are done well making one’s visit pleasant and unforgettable.

distance 1:40 hours FLIGHT from Bogotá Airport + 10 min trip road from riohacha airport

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4 days - 3 nights day 1 | Riohacha & Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary Arrival at Riohacha Airport and transfer to the hotel. Riohacha or süchiimma, as it is known in the local Wayúu dialect, is small and tranquil town situated along the narrow bay known as the Boca de Camarón. The town was founded in 1545 as Nuestra Señora Santa María de los Remedios del Cabo de la Vela. After lunch, half day visit to Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, located some 20km from Riohacha in the county of Camarones, a territory that in the past belonged to the uanebucanes indigenous people. This is an important lagoon

system for spotting the pink ibis, pink coloured flamingos and it also has beautiful beaches. In a traditional fishing boat, the trip continues towards the path of Wayúu medicinal plants. Return to Riohacha and overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Riohacha - Cabo de La Vela After breakfast leave heading northwest from Riohacha to Cabo de la Vela (180 km, approximately 4 hours), a remote fishing village along the tip of the Guajira peninsula. Break the journey after 60km to visit the salt flats at Manaure. These tall mountains of brilliant white salt play tricks on the mind with

their extreme contrasts alongside the sea, sand and sky. Later in Uribia, the indigenous capital of the Department, see the fine artistry and handicrafts of the Wayúu such as their hammocks and mochila bags are on display. Continuing the trip through the desert following the road alongside the railway tracks the length of which freight trains haul tons of coal from the mine at El Cerrejon to Puerto Bolivar for exportation. Towards the end of the railway line the road leads off into the desert passing Wayúu dwellings and plentiful numbers of cacti. Arrival at Cabo de la Vela, overnight stay in a Rancheria, with basic services. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Cabo de La Vela - Riohacha Free morning for individual activities in the area. After lunch, take a trip to the Faro viewpoint where a lighthouse beams out over the sea from this rocky promontory and allows for fantastic sunset views. Moving on to Pilón de Azúcar Beach, where the blue sea is only interrupted by golden sands. From the top of the point at Pilón there is a 360ª view. From here to one side are the sea and the sand and to the other the salt flats. Return to Cabo de la Vela, overnight stay in a Rancheria, with basic services. meals: B / - / -

excursions

day 4 | Cabo de la Vela - Riohacha Tayrona / Santa Marta The Wayúu believe that Cabo de la Vela is the route which the souls of the dead begin their journey into the unknown. After breakfast, transfer back to the airport in Riohacha, Santa Marta or Tayrona National Park. meals: B / - / -

AFTERNOON IN THE RANCHERIAS Depart from Riohacha to visit an authentic and traditional Wayúu indigenous community in order to learn about their way of life and cultural practices. Observe the wooden structures that are traditional of Wayúu dwellings as well as listening to their myths and legends. Appreciate their handicrafts and the Yonna dance while sipping some rum. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY TOUR TO CABO DE LA VELA After breakfast leave Riohacha heading northwest to Cabo de La Vela (180 km, approximately 4 hours), a remote fishing village along the tip of the Guajira peninsula. Break the journey after 60km to visit the salt flats at Manaure. These tall mountains of brilliant white salt play tricks on the mind with extreme contrasts alongside the sea, sand and sky. Later in Uribia, the indigenous capital of the Department, see the fine artistry and handicrafts of the Wayúu such as their hammocks and mochila bags are on display. Continuing the trip through the desert following the road alongside the railway tracks the length of which

freight trains haul tons of coal from the mine at El Cerrejon to Puerto Bolivar for exportation. Towards the end of the railway line the road leads off into the desert passing Wayúu dwellings and cacti. After lunch, take a trip to the Faro viewpoint where a lighthouse beams out over the sea from this rocky peninsula and allows for fantastic sunset views. Move on to Pilón de Azúcar beach, where the blue sea is only interrupted by golden sands. From the top of the point at Pilón there is a 360ª view. From

here to one side are the sea and the sand and to the other the salt flats. Return to Riohacha. duration: Approximately 10 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: This is an adventurous trip and involves arduous overland travel, contact with local indigenous tribes and promises excitement and emotion.

colombian journeys SEA

THE PACIFIC T

he Colombian Pacific coast is a region where one rediscovers the bewitching nature of the sea, its pristine jungles, exotic beaches, fauna and flora, the kind hospitality of the locals and the rich cultural background which harks back to a time of fewer complications. The Pacific offers many attractions such as scuba diving, bird-watching and hikes along indescribably beautiful trails as well as every year between the months of July and October the Colombian Pacific Coast is a true marvel of nature when the humpback whales arrive from the north in search of warmer waters and along with them migratory birds and the golfito marine turtles. The climate is humid and rainy and the season with the most sunshine is between January and March and the least sunshine, between August and November. The average temperature in these parts is 28 ºC although when it rains this drops somewhat. This region is considered as one of the most bio-diverse and rainy areas on earth with an average annual rainfall of 4000mm. This environmental wonderland is reached by air since all of this area is largely protected and virgin so there are few roads and those that do exist are very basic. Gorgona National Park is one of the jewels of the Pacific Coast, a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. It is an island located 46 km from the town of Guapi in the Cauca department, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by boat from there. The park area measures 61,687 hectares of which 97 per cent are marine areas and the rest are land. Originally the island was inhabited by pre-Columbian communities from 1300AD; this culture subsequently disappeared after the arrival of the Spaniard Diego de Almagro in 1526 who named the place San Felipe. Later the Spanish Conquistador Pizarro arrived and due to the high prevalence of snakes renamed the island Gorgona. From 1960 to 1984 this island served as a prison colony until the August 7 1985 when Gorgona was declared a national natural monument in order to protect the marine area and the island ecosystem. Nowadays, this is a true paradise for underwater world enthusiasts, the island’s ecosystem includes the largest coral reef in the Colombian Pacific and its water are host of dolphins, humpback whales, sea lions, sharks and turtles. Nuquí is the Pacific coast’s Eden and is located in the northern region of the Pacific coast on the Gulf of Tribugá in the Chocó department, between the Ancachi and Nuquí Rivers with the jungle all around. This region is, for the most part, inhabited by people of indigenous and African descent who dedicate their lives to fishing, agriculture, woodcutting and other jungle resources. The only way of getting to Nuquí is by air from Quibdo or Medellín, being the minimum flight time 1 hour; or by boat from Bahía Solano. This is a paradise for bird watchers, water sports enthusiasts, fishing and unspoiled nature. Nuquí easily inspires artists and poets offering incredible views of an exuberant forest, beaches, waterfalls, stones and boulders of many colours, exotic plants and curious animals in one of the richest most diverse ecosystems on earth. Bahía Solano is located on a corner of the Colombian Pacific coast which blends beaches with fantastic waves and the exuberance of the tropical rain-forest. This is the ideal setting given the wealth of biodiversity here, streams, waterfalls, and an inspirational sunset. The Valle River leads you inland to indigenous communities and the peace here is broken only by birdsong, toucans in flight or a dolphin jumping.

distance 1:00 hour FLIGHT from Bogotá Airport ºC

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4 days - 3 nights

WHALE WATCHING IN Nuquí Activity carried out from July to October when the whales are migrating through the area. day 1 | Medellín - Nuquí Reception at Nuquí Airport and transfer to the dock for approximately 45 minutes boat transfer to Ecolodge El Cantil and check-in. In the afternoon, walk to the waterfall Cascada del Amor. It is 400m from El Cantil, stroll in the jungle, until arrive at a paradise where crystalline waters tumble over a 4m high waterfall. Walk a few minutes further on into the jungle to see the Mellizas Waterfall. Lastly, enjoy empty beaches near to the river. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. meals: - / - / D Note: The flights from Medellín to Nuquí or Bahía Solano have a luggage restriction of 1 carry-on bag of 5 kg and 1 checked bag of 10 kg.

day 2 | Nuquí In the morning take a leisurely walk over level terrain for 3km admiring the pelicans and other birds found here and walk past streams that splice the beaches in order to reach the ocean. Arrive at the thermal springs and take a bath in waters that reach a comfortable 32 ºC temperature. In the afternoon, head out for a whale watching on a 3-hour trip all depending on where the where the whales are. meals: B / L / D

day 4 | Nuquí - Medellín Morning departure after breakfast by boat to Nuquí and transfer to the airport. Departure by flight to Medellín. meals: B / - / -

day 3 | Nuquí In the morning walk to Rio Terco following it into the jungle, this hike is a true adventure. Notice as the contrasts in the vegetation and fauna become more apparent and enjoy the sounds of the jungle and pure nature. For this tour is important to be fit. In the afternoon, head out for a whale watching on a 3 hours trip all depending on where the whales are. meals: B / L / D

of skill and length; sport fishing; diving with professional

Further activities can be organized from El Cantil Lodge as boat trips to Cabo Corrientes with its dramatic topography of rocks and jungle, to the Ensenada de Utría National Park or whale watching and dolphin spotting tours (only in season) and others; jungle or beach hikes of varying levels PADI guides; surfing and kayaking. NOTES: All tours are available on a daily basis. Vegetarians must inform us of their diet at least a week in advance. Boat excursions always depend on the tides. Airfares from/to Medellín are not included, it is only available on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

package

4 days - 3 nights

NATURE AND ADVENTURE IN BAHÍA SOLANO day 1 | Medellín - Bahía Solano Reception at Bahía Solano Airport and approximately 1 hour transfer to El Almejal Rainforest Beach Lodge and check-in. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: - / - / D day 2 | Bahía Solano In the morning, trail hike trough El Almejal Reservation which is roughly 1km in length and takes in the region of 2 hours. After walking for 10 minutes arrive at a plateau from where is able to see vast swathes of jungle and the ocean. The El

Almejal reservation begins here at the exact point where you can truly appreciate the perfect balance of nature with enormous trees, orchids, exotic flowers, butterflies, birds and frogs all spread out as far as the eye can see. It is possible to climb trees, rappel and take educational hikes in the company of a guide through this tropical rainforest. Return to hotel. Free remainder of the day to relax. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Bahía Solano Walk to Rio Tundó 6km for about 4 hours in the company of an expert guide is ideal for beginners. Upon arrival at the riverbank of the Valle River, start a canoe trip to reach the Tundó River. Observe

mangroves and rainforest, flora and fauna including toucans, parrots, otters, bromelias and orchids all within their own natural habitats. Take a bathe in the river and return to the lodge. Free remainder of the day to relax. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Bahía Solano - Medellín After breakfast, transfer to Bahía Solano airport. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys SEA

excursions

Nuquí HALF DAY CASCADA 4 ENCANTOS Enjoy a one and a half hour walk through the jungle from the area of hot springs until reaching the Terco River where four beautiful waterfalls are located. duration: 4 hours schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private and SIB services. Only Spanish speaking guide. HALF DAY CASCADA DE CHONTADURA Walk along the beach until reaching the town of Joví, then walk 1:30 hours through the jungle, bordering the river, until a spot where a traditional canoe journey starts. Arrive at the Chontadura waterfall, located in a hidden natural and beautiful landscape. During the excursion it is possible to watch bird, mammals and fish. This product is organized by the community. duration: 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private and SIB services. Only Spanish speaking guide.

BAHíA SOLANO HALF DAY CASCADAS DE CHADO Starting the journey by boat, after 20 minutes arrive at an empty beach where the Cascadas and the Chadó Rivers meet the ocean. Then you shall begin a tough hike of 18km in the company of an expert guide. Take a bath in the Cascadas River where there are many natural pools and relax beneath small waterfalls with clear water. Walk along the beach until the Chadó River where it forms a large and beautiful natural pool before reaching the ocean. Be fit is recommendable for this tour. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: SIB services. NOTE: This tour works with a minimum of 7 people.

HALF DAY CASCADA DEL TIGRE Leave El Almejal by boat, travelling for 15 minutes (14km) until reaching an idyllic beach where there is an awe-inspiring waterfall that crashes down from up high. After walking along the beach for 10 minutes come to another waterfall that crashes onto the beach creating a large natural freshwater pool. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: SIB services. NOTE: This tour works with a minimum of 7 people.

SEA

THE PACIFIC

CASCADA DEL AMOR Walk along the beach until finding a stream that winds its way out into the sea. From there, walk through the jungle five more minutes to la Cascada del Amor to enjoy a refreshing and relaxing dip. duration: 1 hour schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private and SIB services. Only Spanish speaking guide. HALF DAY RÍO TERCO Walk along the river’s edge which is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Throughout the excursion enjoy bathing in natural pools full of abundant and crystalline water. duration: 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private and SIB services. Only Spanish speaking guide.

HALF DAY ENSENADA DE UTRIA NATIONAL PARK After a 40-minute journey by boat along the coast from El Almejal come to the Ensenada de Utría. This park is a body of land that juts out 7km into the ocean and is dotted with small jungle covered hills. Its calm waters of emerald green are ideal for admiring the coral here. Here in this hotspot of biodiversity exist four different types of ecosystem including coral reefs, mangroves, jungle and ocean. Observe giant mangrove swamps, bathe in the ocean at the beaches of Cocalito Beach and Punta Diego or hike the Cocalito trail. Between July and October, the ocean here is visited by humpback whales (megáptera novaengliae) looking for an ideal place in which to bear their calves. There are always dolphins here and you can normally see them playing in the wake of the boat. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: SIB services. NOTE: This tour works with a minimum of 7 people.

HALF DAY THERMAL SPRINGS Walk until you arrive at the area known as Termales from where you’ll start a short walk into the jungle and then after a five-minute walk along a small path arrive at the hot springs. Upon arrival, enjoy a hot natural water bath, combining it if desired with a cold water bath in the stream. duration: 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private and SIB services. Only Spanish speaking guide. SPORT FISHING The Colombian Pacific is world-renowned area for sport fishing. The program begins in the morning, accompanied by a native fisherman, who will take you on his boat to the best areas in the bay to have a successful experience. You can choose between a small or large boat and enjoy the activity half day or full day. The kind of fishes you can find in the area are: Bravo (amberjack), Snapper (lutjanus), Cherna (flounder), Albacore, among others, depending on the time of year. duration: Day or fraction. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Local fisherman.

WHALE WATCHING The humpback whales make an annual migration of more that 8000km from the cold waters of the Antarctic to Colombia just to bear their calves and to perform their own special mating dance. Between July and October, one can admire from up close this natural wonder, their playful spirit and exhibitionism and at times even hear their melodic song especially when a lone male is nearby. These trips are done by boat in order to go and find the whales by spotting the spray from their spouts. Once they have been spotted the whale watching begins and the excursion is undertaken employing the code of conduct set out by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: SIB services. NOTE: Boat excursions always depend on the tides and weather conditions.

EXPERIENCE THE ART OF LIVING IN BOGOTÁ

Is a unique gem, offering the chic, contemporary décor and amenities of an upscale, full-service hotel with a jazz-inspired theme. Best of all, you can explore the energy and attractions of Bogotá right outside our doors, then retreat to the peaceful ambiance of your warm, relaxing hotel room overlooking Parque el Virrey.

OUR BENEFITS

Restaurant and Bar

Complimentary breakfast in your room

Jazz Apartments - Calle 87 N° 15 - 35 Bogotá, Colombia. Bookings: +57 (1) 408 9253 reservas.jazz@bluedoors.co www.jazzapartments.com

Pet-friendly

VILLA DE LEYVA T

he town of Villa de Leyva, located 207 km from Bogotá at an altitude of 2,140m, was founded in 1572 by Hernán Suárez de Villalobos who named it after Andrés Días Venero de Leyva, the first president of Nueva Granada. Before the arrival of the Spanish, the area was inhabited by the Muiscas, a Chibcha-speaking people who built their main astronomical observatory at the site of the current town. Villa de Leyva is one of the most beautiful towns in the area and is ideally explored on foot. It was declared a national monument in 1954 and has remained free of modern constructions. It is as if one can still breathe in the atmosphere of colonial times when visiting the expansive Plaza Mayor which at 14,000 m2 is the country’s largest. This special atmosphere does not end at the Plaza as it courses through the surrounding cobblestone streets; the Cathedral; the house of Antonio Nariño, home to the Independence hero; the home of Antonio Ricaurte, who fought under Bolívar and is known for his heroic sacrifice during the battle of San Mateo; the House of Congress where, on October 4th, 1812, the first Congress of the United Provinces of Nueva Granada took place; the Colonial Art Museum; El Carmen Monastery and Convent. The Museum of Maestro Acuña is a worth a visit. Named after the artist, a painter, sculptor and writer, Acuña, along with other artists, created the Bachue movement, which can be seen here, and which sought to recover the essential feeling and atmosphere through art of the Chibcha ancestors. The Museum of Maestro Acuña also displays colonial objects, musical instruments and furniture. A few kilometres from Villa de Leyva and not to be missed is the Saint Ecce Homo Convent, founded by the Dominicans in 1620 and considered a most outstanding Spanish legacy. The pavement is made of local stone embedded with fossils, and the chapel has a magnificent golden altarpiece with a small Ecce Homo image. Nearby Villa de Leyva also there are many towns, each with its particular curiosity such as Ráquira which in the Chibcha language means “city of the pots” and therefore is known as the Colombian town that specializes in fine handmade ceramics; Sutamarchán, famous for its gastronomy, especially longaniza and morcilla spicy sausages and the Tomatina Festival, which comes from a Spanish tradition; and Tinjacá known for its tagua (the seed of palm) handicrafts.

distance 3:30 hours CAR TRANSFER from bogotá ºC

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2 days - 1 night day 1 | Bogotá - Zipaquirá and Salt Cathedral Villa de Leyva In the morning depart from Bogotá to the north, towards Zipaquirá. After a journey of roughly 1.15 hours reach the impressive Salt Cathedral, a true achievement of engineering. The name Zipaquirá refers to Zipa, the leader of the Muisca tribe and the chief of these rich salt mines. The excursion will begin by visiting the cathedral in a tunnel that passes the fourteen Stations of the Cross and continues on to the dome. The dome is lit in such a way that it allows one to contemplate the universe

and the relationship between man and nature. Later, reach the enormous cross carved into the saline rock and finally the three naves of the Cathedral that represent the birth, life and death of Christ. In the central nave is the main altar, above which is the cross that measures 16m in height and 10m in breadth, made by the Colombian artist Carlos Enrique Rodriguez. This is the largest cross made from salt in the world. Next, we visit the mine where there is an excellent auditorium that can seat up to two hundred people, host film screenings and diverse events such as fashion shows. The

trip ends at a mirror of water where it is possible to experience the amazing visual effects of water on carved saline rock. Continue on a 2-hour trip to Villa de Leyva in the afternoon. Upon arrival to Villa de Leyva check in at the hotel. Villa de Leyva, one of the area’s most beautiful towns, was founded in 1572 by Hernán Suárez de Villalobos who named it after Andrés Días Venero de Leyva, the first president of Nueva Granada. In colonial times, Villa de Leyva played a central role in independence developments and the Viceroy and his entourage spent much time here. Today, the city is a colonial jewel with a main square measuring 14.000 m2 surrounded by Spanish style houses, small alleys, cobblestone streets and the XVII century parochial church. Then visit The Fossil Museum, founded in 1977 and located 5,5 km away from Villa de Leyva. The museum was built exactly at the place where a kronosaurus, a marine reptile from more than 120 million years ago and 20 meters in length, was discovered. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / - / -

excursions

day 2 | Villa de Leyva - Bogotá After breakfast, return to Bogotá. On the way, break at the Saint Ecce Homo Convent. Founded by the Dominicans in 1620, this was an important point of evangelization in a region populated by infidel Indigenous communities. The tour ends in Bogotá Airport for departure flight in the evening or at the selected Bogotá hotel. meals: B / - / FULL DAY IGUAQUE FAUNA AND FLORA SANCTUARY The tour begins with a long ecological hike from the high Andean forests to the moors, where a great diversity of flora and fauna can be appreciated. The path leads to the sacred lake of Iguaque, the place where the Muiscas based a great deal of their mythology. According to Muisca legend, mankind originated in the Iguaque lake, when the goddess Bachué came out from the lake with a boy in her arms. Once the boy grew, they went on to populate the earth. They are considered the ancestors of the human race. Iguaque is also a great place to practice bird watching. This tour includes transportation and a snack. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged departs in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. OPTIONAL: For passengers interested in practicing bird watching an ornithologist (bird expert) can accompany them. Surcharges apply. Arrive to a river, until a spot where a traditional canoe journey starts. Arrive at the Chontadura waterfall, located in a hidden natural and beautiful landscape. During the excursion it is possible to watch bird, mammals and fish. This product is organized by the community.

FULL DAY CANYONING IN SOROCOTA WATERFALL An adventure and adrenaline experience in the Cascada de Sorocotá, hidden among farms within the Moniquirá Canyon, where you have the opportunity to rappel down the 30-meter waterfall. Also, take the opportunity to swim in Pozo Verde and walk along a trail of peasant farms and reach an area of Andean jungle very well preserved on the banks of the river. Ideal for beginners without experience and experts. duration: Approximately 7 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

from the Andean region. Enjoy the downhill road back to Villa de Leyva and stop in some of the museums and main attractions on the way as Pozos Azules and El Fósil Museum or the Muisca Observatory and the Terracota House. The terrain is accessible for the average mountain bike rider with a good fitness level, this tour is a mix of dirt roads and asphalt. Be prepared for 5km of uphill road. duration: 3 to 6 hours. 25.5 km of route. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private guide. difficulty level: Low.

HALF DAY BIKE TOUR Ride with an experienced guide and learn about Villa de Leyva’s history and culture and have an amazing adventure into the natural landscapes of the region. Starting from Villa de Leyva and riding through the desert, you will head to Santa Sofia’s paved road. After a little warm up ride, detour on El Carcamo to climb up 5km on a dirt road that will take you to the Hidden Valley, a green paradise in the middle of the desert. Once there, some single trails will take you to the river where you can cool off and rest for a while. Visit a colonial-era mill and enjoy the view while eating a delicious “cuajada con melao”, a traditional dessert

entrance fees are not included.

NOTES: Includes bike rental, water and snack. The

HALF DAY RAQUIRA On the way to Villa de Leyva stop in Ráquira town, which in the Chibcha language means “city of the pots” and therefore is known as the Colombian town that specializes in fine handmade ceramics. Besides its handicrafts, this town is famous for its colourful houses, which have made them, on different occasions, win the prize for the most beautiful town in Colombia. Enjoy the afternoon walking along the streets and appreciating the handicrafts. Also get to know Sutamarchán, famous for its gastronomy, especially longaniza and morcilla spicy sausages

colombian journeys COLONIAL

and the Tomatina Festival, which comes from a Spanish tradition and Tinjacá known for its tagua (the seed of palm) handicrafts. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning or afternoon. guide: Private bilingual guide.

duration: Approximately 1 hour. schedule: To be arranged in the morning or afternoon. guide: Private bilingual guide.

PALEONTOLOGICAL MUSEUM VILLA DE LEYVA The paleontological museum in Villa de Leyva was founded on the 12th of June 1972 by the Faculty of Science of the Colombian National University with the purpose of creating a centre of investigation for paleontological sciences. It is located 10 minutes away north of Villa de Leyva. The area of Villa de Leyva was chosen since it has a rich historical, cultural, geological and paleontological background which can be supported by findings of marine rocks from the cretaceous period with a high content of fossils. Within the collections you will find examples of ammonite fossils, marine reptiles, fish and plants and these contribute to the reconstruction of Colombia´s natural and environmental history. The museum has several exhibitions displaying collections of the different fossils found in the area, rocks and geological eras, together with exhibitions on the different dinosaur fossils found in the area and the process of fossilization.

Holidays open from 9:00 - 3:00 p.m.

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VILLA DE LEYVA

NOTE: The Museum is closed on Mondays (unless it is a public holiday) and opens from Tuesday to Saturday 9:00 - 12:00 midday and 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Sundays and Public

VISIT LA CANDELARIA MONASTERY This religious center, built in the seventeenth century, was the first monastery founded by the Augustinian Recollects in America by Fray Mateo Delgado initiative with the aim of creating a community dedicated to prayer and reflection. In the beginning, some hermits who lived in nearby caves were invited to join. Currently the monastery is destined to the novitiate of the Augustinian Fathers and to spiritual retreats. It is located 45 minutes from Villa de Leyva in a region known as La Candelaria Desert or “Desert of Souls “, in the surroundings of Raquira village. The convent conserves in its interior an important collection of colonial art, gardens, corridors with semicircular arches supported by stone columns and brick floors. From the plaza, also known as compass, you can see the garden, the cemetery, the temple, a small museum of antiques and oil paintings and its

church, where you can see a gallery of portraits and paintings made by different painters and artists of the colonial era, highlighting six paintings by the Bogotá painter Gregorio Vásquez de Arce and Cevallos. duration: 1 hour. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. WATERFALLS LA PERIQUERA Half day excursion to La Periquera Waterfalls, the area taking its name from the large flocks of parrots that inhabited the area. Begin a 2-hour excursion with a walk by the canyon of “La Cebada River, crossing footpaths of farms, in a forest full of oak and rubber trees, visit 4 waterfalls with an opportunity to take a swim or just admire the incredible view, stop at different locations to watch the beautiful landscape of Villa de Leyva and its surroundings. The tour includes transportation, guidance and a snack. duration: Approximately 3 - 4 hours. schedule: Departures can be arranged in the morning or in the afternoon guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: Very often some tourist sites in Villa de Leyva closed without notice.

CHARMING

HOTEL LA PO SA DA DE SAN ANTONI O

VILLA DE LEYVA @HotelLaPosadaDeSanAntonio

Carrera 8 no. 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 80 P. (8) 7320 538 / 390

@hotellaposadadesanantonio

POPAYÁN T

he town of Popayán is a small and perfectly formed colonial town often referred to as the White City due to the prevalence of the chalk-white facades of the homes and buildings in the historical center. Founded in 1537 by the Conquistador Sebastián de Belalcázar, it played an important role in colonial times as it was the middle point in the journey between Cartagena and Quito. Its temperate climate attracted many wealthy colonial landowning families from the Valle del Cauca and Cali in addition to gold prospectors from Barbacoas in Chocó. These settlers built stately houses in Popayán and equally fine churches decorated with artwork brought from Spain. Popayán was an important administrative point in the times of Nueva Granada and was, besides Santa Fé de Bogotá, the only town to have its own coin mint. Popayán’s historic center is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved in Colombia with important houses that have become heritage symbols such as Mosquera House Museum, a mansion that was once home to General Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera, a Colombia’s President on four occasions. The Guillermo León Valencia National Museum is dedicated to the Popayán-born poet who once lived here. There are also stunning churches such as the San Francisco Church, the largest and most beautiful in town; the Santo Domingo Church; San José Church as well as the oldest, the La Ermita Church. Although the original town was damaged by a 1983 earthquake, all of the historic buildings were completely restored. Popayán is also famous for its Easter Week processions, a tradition from colonial times which its inhabitants have lovingly preserved. In 2009 Popayán’s Holly Week celebrations were declared by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

distance 50 min FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT ºC

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Popayán - Half day city tour Upon arrival to Popayán airport, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Then, go on a half day visit to the historic center of town founded in 1537, concentrating on Caldas Park. Around the Caldas Park are the main religious and government buildings, as well as the city’s original buildings such as the Clock Tower, considered one of the symbols of the city, built between 1673 and 1682 and set in 1737. Continue towards the Humilladero Bridge, built in 1873 to facilitate access from the city center to El Callejón (currently barrio Bolívar) up a steep rise, particularly for those pilgrims making the journey on their knees. Visit to the Santo Domingo Church, a baroque style church designed by the Spanish architect Antonio García and commissioned by the Arboleda family,

the San Francisco Church, considered the most beautiful baroque church in town, and the Panteón de los Próceres. Visit the Religious Art Museum, which houses an interesting collection of religious art, and the Mosquera House Museum, the Settecento style house that belonged to General Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera. Return to hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / - / -

small mountain villages nearby. Every Tuesday, on market day, the village of Silvia is transformed into a colourful, bustling and picturesque place when the Guambiano Indians descend upon Silvia dressed in their traditional “anacos”, a blue knee-length skirtlike wraparound, and sell their fruit, vegetables and handicrafts. meals: B / - / -

day 2 | Popayán - Half Day in Silvia This excursion only works on Tuesday. Half day visit to the small town of Silvia, located in a temperate mountainous area and consisting of picturesque houses surrounded by vast sugar cane plantations. The Indigenous Guambiano community with a population of 12,000 inhabitants, lives in

NOTE: This tour can be done the arrival date depending on

HALF DAY GUAMBIANA CULTURE AND CASA Payán One of the most organized and representative indigenous groups in southern Colombia is the Guambiana culture found in the department of Cauca. A visit to the highland town of Silvia is to see the beating heart of Guambiana culture and here you will receive a tour given by a member of the Guambiano Cabildo (Indigenous state official) and a traditional doctor. Here you will learn about the Guambiana social structure, modes of production and traditional medicine. Before meeting the indigenous doctor and undergoing a traditional “cleansing ceremony” and an overview of sacred plants and their healing powers, you will be received with music played by a Chirimia (traditional indigenous music involving flutes and drums) and get to taste some changuar (indigenous liquor). Finally, your visit will end with a trip to the Casa Payán where you will learn about the cosmology of the Guambiana culture. duration: 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

center run by several creole families involved in cattle farming and who owned enormous estates known as Haciendas. Some of these Haciendas were used as reservations, others for slaves, but overall, they were places which inspired painters and scribes. On your tour, you will visit two colonial Haciendas located on the outskirts of Popayán. The first Hacienda is the Antón Moreno farm which was built in 1760 by Don Marcelino Mosquera y Figueroa and it is still working today. Here you will see the pine trees, cypress trees and eucalyptus are grown for papermaking in addition to the ubiquitous cattle farming here. Although the house has been modified over time, you can appreciate its original architecture. The second destination on this tour is to the Calibío Hacienda - meaning white river in local dialects which is one of the few surviving estates dating back to the late 18th century. The Cabilío Hacienda was completed in 1793 and remains true to its original architecture. This is the site of major historical events including the battle of Calibío in January 1814 when Antonio Nariño was leading the independence movement of the territory from Spain. The great liberator of northern South America, Simon Bolívar also spent the night here on October 30, 1826. To finish the tour, you will enjoy some local delicacies

including the famous and delicious “empanaditas de pipian”. Return to your hotel. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

HALF DAY TOUR HACIENDAS During the colonial era Popayán was a commercial

the arrival time of the flight.

day 3 | Popayán - Bogotá After breakfast, transfer to local airport for flight to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

FULL DAY Puracé NATIONAL NATURAL PARK All day visit to Puracé National Park located 45 km away from Popayán. It is an impressive natural reserve spanning 83,000 hectares including the Serrania de los Coconucos and its volcanoes. The highest peaks are Pan de Azúcar (5,000m), Coconuco (4,600m), Puracé (4,580m), and four others with elevations from 4,400 to 4,500 masl. The Sotará volcano (4,400m) is to the south of the mountain chain. Adding to this beautiful scenery there are waterfalls, lagoons and caves. Take a break in Pilimbala to enjoy the hot springs by the foothills of the Nevado del Puracé which is surrounded by lush fascinating landscapes. Visit to the park to see the flora, fauna and numerous cascades. In the evening, return to Popayán. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

colombian journeys COLONIAL

SANTA CRUZ DE Mompox S

anta Cruz de Mompox is a remote and hidden town where time has stood still and your senses race. This town that inspires tales of romance and nostalgia is situated on an island of the same name on the western bank of the Magdalena River, roughly 200km southeast from Cartagena. The Colombian Nobel Prize winning author Gabriel Garcia Marquez famously wrote in his novel “The General in his Labyrinth” a phrase he attributed to the great Liberator Simon Bolivar, “Mompox does not exist, sometimes we dream of her, but she does not exist”. It was founded by Alonso de Heredia in May 1537 as Santa Cruz de Mompox after a ferocious confrontation with the Kimbay tribe which resulted in the defeat of the indigenous leader Cacique de Mompoj, from whom the city takes its name. Mompox immediately became a key commercial center for the merchandise that travelled upriver from the interior en route to Cartagena. It was also an important escape for the Aristocracy of Cartagena when that city suffered attacks by English pirates. On August 6th, 1810 Mompox was the first town in Colombia to declare absolute independence from Spain when the Momposino patriots symbolically destroyed the torture devices belonging to the Inquisition. During a short stopover in the town, Simón Bolívar uttered the immortal words: “To Caracas I owe my life, but to Mompox I owe my glory”, as he famously raised an army of 400 hundred men here. But this glory and splendour that set Mompox apart fell into decline when, towards the end of the XIX Century, navigation along the Magdalena River was rerouted along another branch of the river. For this reason, the town has remained architecturally and traditionally intact and in 1995 was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Central Cemetery is perhaps the most interesting and atmospheric place to visit. Here it becomes clear that the old tales from Mompox are still very much alive. The white tombs are lined up one above the other and form walls of memories around a central chapel. Strolling here in the hours of dusk pass locals seated calmly in front of their homes enjoying the breeze in their rocking chairs. A tradition in Mompox, that is passed down from generation to generation and is world famous, is filigree workshops. Local craftsmen make from threads of silver and gold very intricate and delicate jewellery. Local flora and fauna is possible to be observed in the Cienega de Pijino located about 20 minutes away boating through scenic wetlands. This complex wetland system is rich in bird life. Exotic fauna such as howler monkeys, birds and iguanas might all be seen from a small motorboat inside the Ciénaga.

distance 7 HOURS CAR TRANSFER + 30 MIN FLIGHT FROM CARTAGeNA

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3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Cartagena -Mompox Leaving Cartagena after an early breakfast you will travel approximately 6 hours (330km) inland to the colonial town of Mompox. Your journey will take you through the towns of San Juan Nepomuceno, over the striking Montes de María hills, the town of San Jacinto - famous for its weaving and musicians - and on to Carmen de Bolivar. After passing the town of Plato - and crossing the imposing Magdalena River - you will reach Santa Ana and then soon after the town of Mompox. After this long journey and checking in to your hotel, you will have time to relax and freshen up before exploring this enchanting town. People often say that time has stood still in Mompox and when you wander the antiquated streets and perfectly preserved colonial architecture, this may ring true! NOTE: The tour does not include entrance or tours to any of the aforementioned towns. There is the possibility of taking a ferry in the port of Magangue to Mompox. Ferries from Magangué to Mompox departs at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. The time schedule might change without previous notice. However, this transfer cannot be guaranteed by the ferry and so our transfer will generally be by land.

meals: - / - / -

day 2 | Mompox and surroundings Since it is always hot in Mompox, you will start your tour in a moto taxi - a local transportation which is a motorcycle - cart hybrid that fits 4 to 5 people - and motor gently along Mompox’s antiquated streets. It is impossible not to be in awe of the colonial architecture here with its blend of mudéjar and baroque styles.

Perhaps the most imposing street is the Calle Real del Medio with its tall whitewashed walls protecting the stately homes of colonial families. You will see the ornate balconies where flowering bougainvillea spills over in bursts of color. The scenic La Albarrada Street runs alongside the river and with shade from the large riverside trees, offers some welcome respite from the merciless sun. Your tour will take in the six churches in the town, the most striking of which is the Santa Barbara in front on the plaza by the same name and where once there was an indigenous cemetery. The Santa Barbara church was completed in 1630 and its yellow and white paintwork accentuates the angles of the octagonal Moorish and baroque bell tower with its 360-degree balcony. The San Agustin church is home to the ornate golden Santo Sepulcro which is paraded through the streets on the shoulders of the Nazarene pilgrims during Mompox’s austere Easter Week celebrations. After visiting the other churches, you will head to the central cemetery which brings the myths and folklore to life with tall tales and legends of a time past. White-painted tombs line corridors and create walls of memories around the central chapel. As you wander back into the center of town you will see how Momposinos live, enjoying the breeze in the cooler afternoon hours from their rocking chairs in front of their homes. You will of course have time to visit a few filigree workshops to observe how local craftsmen weave intricate jewellery from silver and gold. This has been a tradition in Mompox, which arrived from Andalusia in Spain, and remains passed down from

generation to generation. After a filling local lunch, you will transfer to the boat launch where you will alight a motorized canoe for a trip out to the Ciénega de Pijino some 20 minutes from Mompox. Your journey will take you through pre-Columbian river channels and out into a network of lakes and wetlands where you will appreciate the wide array of flora and fauna here as well as being able to take a dip in the lake. You will be up close to many species of birds, howler monkeys and iguanas all the while taking in the spectacular scenery. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Mompox - Santa Marta / Tayrona National Park After an early breakfast, your transfer from Mompox will pass the Magdalena River at Santa Ana and continue to Bosconia all the while enjoying rich agricultural landscapes. On the way to Santa Marta you will pass Aracataca - birthplace of the Nobel Prize winning author Gabriel Garcia Marquez and you have the option to visit the museum in his former home and breathe in the air which inspired his literature. After about a 5-6-hour journey, arrive in Tayrona National Park or Santa Marta. meals: B / - / NOTE: There is the possibility of taking a ferry from Mompox to Santa Ana. Ferry leaves from Mompox to Santa Ana at 8am. The time schedule might change without previous notice. However, this transfer cannot be guaranteed by the ferry and so our transfer will generally be by land.

colombian journeys COLONIAL

SAN AGUSTÍN &TIERRADENTRO I

n the Upper Magdalena region of the department of Huila, to the very location where Colombia’s most famous river traces its source and nestled between the central and easterly ridges of the Andes Mountains is the San Agustín Archaeological Park. Here in this mountainous setting is one of Colombia’s most important archaeological reserves declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. This region was inhabited by a mysterious and enigmatic civilization that created fantastic sculptures using the volcanic rock from which to fashion their art which over the years has taken on an otherworldly and almost immortal form. Approximately 5000 years ago one of the oldest cultures in Latin America arrived here. Their name remains unknown and their subsequent disappearance, centuries prior to the arrival of the Spanish, is a mystery but there are various theories including that of extra-terrestrial interference. The archaeological park is found on the outskirts of the town and at an altitude of 1695m. The name San Agustín comes from two possible sources, the first being from the presence of Augustinian missionaries who arrived in this region around the year 1600 and the second relates to the memory of Santo Obispo Fray Agustín de la Coruña who passed through this area became concerned by how the abusive local ‘encomenderos’ (messengers) were treating the local indigenous populations, took up the noble cause of defending them. His activities did not make him a popular figure and he had to go into exile. The climate here is fresh and comfortable during the daytime usually around 18ºC and at night and early morning the temperature can drop quite substantially to between 10 and 12ºC. The wettest months are April, June and October and the driest are January, February, March, September and December. The park covers a total area of approximately 500 square km that includes San Agustín archaeological park and nearby Alto de los Idolos and Alto de las Piedras. The communities that inhabited the area now referred to as San Agustín 5000 years ago were master sculptors, designing and erecting enormous, imposing stone statues and moving them to higher sacred ground. Here these statues stand today in the forms of pumas, snakes, eagles consuming snakes, warriors, good and evil and women in childbirth all looking on, as if silently watching over us. Some of the statues were found on their actual location and others have been moved in order to protect them but they remain as they were with their intricate details defying the rigours of time and still visible for all to see. As one visits the 130 odd statues located in the park the silence that is hollow yet deafening, as if emphasizing the importance and sanctity of this place, at times is broken only by birds in song. These birds that abound in the hillsides here are the actual masters of this land only fleetingly populated by man. There is an Archaeological Museum at the entrance to the park which has a small but tidy exhibition of statues, ceramics, utensils and jewellery related to the cultures that once inhabited these special lands. Travelling on 7 hours from San Agustín is another archaeological attraction called Tierradentro which is found half way up a mountain at an altitude slightly greater than

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

SAN AGUSTÍN

Desierto de la Tatacoa

HUILA Parque Nacional Natural Nevado

Neiva

Río Magdalena

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Represa Betania

Parque Aqueológico Nacional de Tierradentro

La Plata

Parque Nacional Natural Puracea

San Agustín

Pitalito

CAQUETÁ Mocoa

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distance 1:00 Hour FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT to NEIVA AIRPORT + 6 HOURS CAR TRANSFER FROM NEIVA AIRPORT

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1750m above sea level. If San Agustín is known primarily for its striking statues, then Tierradentro is famous for its burial chambers. Archaeologists state that only 100 tombs of the type found here in Tierradentro have been found in the whole of Latin America. This location has also been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in particular for these subterranean funeral galleries that are extensive and must have been created by indigenous cultures inhabiting the region between the years 600AD and 900BC. In the same department of Huila, about 42km from the city of Neiva, is the Tatacoa Desert sometimes known as the Valley of Sadness. Given its name by the conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada in 1538, “Tatacoa” means black “rattle“ or rattlesnake, a harmless local reptile of the Tatacoa.

During the pre-Columbian era this area was inhabited by the Totoyoe Indians who were allied with the Doches and Pijaos and they all shared this dry terrain with turtles, rodents, snakes, spiders, scorpions, eagles, lizards and ocelots. These animals have thrived here finding ample places to hide here in the arid earth and between the cacti plants that grow up to four or five meters in height. This semi-arid land is referred to by biologists as a tropical dry forest and its average temperature is around 27 ºC and it is located within the fertile floodplains of the Magdalena River. The climate is hot and dry and there are a large variety of cacti that grow up out of the red earth in an area called “Cuzco” while in another area called “Los Hoyos” the landscape alters drastically and there are no longer rocks but sandy yellow dunes.

can enjoy a remarkable view over the surrounding countryside. Also visit the small Archaeological Museum. After lunch, visit to the wonderful Colombian massif and of the strait of the Magdalena River, a spectacular rocky gorge that forces the river to pass through only 2.20 meters. Drive back to San Agustín and short visit to the town. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

package

6 days - 5 nights

TATACOA DESERT, SAN AGUSTÍN, TIERRADENTRO & POPAYÁN day 1 | Neiva - Tatacoa Desert - Tierradentro Arrival at Neiva airport and immediate transfer to the north to visit the town of Villavieja and the Paleontological Museum. Then, visit the Tatacoa Desert crossing crevasses eroded by wind and water. Set off to Tierradentro archaeological zone, following the Central Andes and bordering the Banks of the River Paez. Pass through the town of La Plata, from where the road is unpaved. After 7 hours journey, arrival at Tierradentro and check in at a simple hotel. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: - / - / D day 2 | Tierradentro - San Agustín In the morning visit Tierradentro Archaeological Park, a World Heritage Site since 1995. Observe incredible subterranean galleries and tombs that are called “hypogeum” in the areas of Alto de Segovia and the Alto del Duende. Then, visit the Archaeological and Anthropological museums and the population of San Andrés de Pisimbalá to see

the indoctrinate temple and the El Cabildo House to learn more about their history, political and economic breakdown of the Paeces community which inhabited this region. The trip continues to the south over an unpaved road until San Agustín. This scenic journey allows enjoying views of the extensive floodplains of the Magdalena River valley from 700 m.a.m.s.l. all the way up to 1730 m.a.m.s.l. and in balmy temperatures of 20ºC just as in San Agustín. After a journey roughly 7 hours arrive at San Agustin, check into the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Full Day San Agustín Archaeological Park and Magdalena River Morning visit to San Agustín Archaeological Park, World Heritage Site declared by the UNESCO in 1995. See these enormous stone statues up close with your own eyes; see how each raised plateau is man-made and has been created specifically for the stone monuments, making where you are trading, holy and sacred ground. You will walk on to the ceremonial Fuente de Lavapatas before heading up the hill to the Lavapatas terrace from which you

day 4 | San Agustin - Full Day Isnos - San Agustin After breakfast, set off for the rural town of Isnos to see further Archaeological Parks such as the Alto de los Ídolos and the Alto de Las Piedras where there are some incredibly well-preserved tombs that still show some of the original paintwork and some of the largest stone figures found so far. Visiting these sights gives you the breathtaking view of the Macizo Colombiano and the incredible waterfalls at the Salto del Mortiño (180 Mts) and the Salto de Bordones (320 Mts). After lunch, you will visit La Chaquira, a sacred place on the river’s edge in a canyon where archaeology and geography are in splendid alignment. Here you will see the figure of a woman carved into a large rock. Drive back to San Agustín and enjoy a short visit to the town. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 5 | San Agustín - Popayán Breakfast. In the afternoon, leave on a 5 hour unpaved drive to Popayán, the capital of the department of Cauca located 91km away. Enjoy the journey surrounded by the Andean scenery of mountains and high-altitude plains. Arrival at Popayán and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 6 | Popayán After breakfast, Half Day City Tour in Popayán. Then, transfer to the local airport. meals: B / - / NOTE: Alto de los Ídolos Archaeological Park is tempory closed until 31.07.20 and this visit will be replaced by a tour of the city in San Agustín or a visit to the Mirador de Chenguilo or the Obando Museum.

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

excursions

HALF DAY VISIT TO A COFFEE FARM Visit a traditional coffee farm in San Agustín where people can experience the whole coffee making process. During approximately 3 hours you will walk through all the stages of the coffee plantation and production, with the possibility of getting involved in the harvest process, learning which is the perfect condition of the coffee bean. After a visit here in this small and beautiful farm, full of typical Colombian fruits, you will share a cup of fresh ground coffee with the owner, while he explains the different ways of making coffee. duration: Approximately 3 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY SAN AGUSTÍN & SURROUNDINGS The tour begins in the heart of San Agustín, exactly in the market square, where the farmers gather to sell all their products, among them, fresh fruits such as passion fruit, papayas, sweet cucumbers, among others, and you will have the opportunity to taste. Afterwards go through the colonial and handicrafts streets of San Agustín while you get to know the

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

SAN AGUSTÍN

history and the artistic murals that decorate the town. Then visit the town school, you can enter the classrooms and talk with the teachers or students and have a very authentic experience. Then climb a hill to have a beautiful view over the village. Set off for the rural town of Isnos to see the Alto de Las Piedras Archaeological Park where there are a few well-preserved tombs and stone figures found so far. Then visit the Obando Museum where you will find funerary urns and caves that were sacred rooms, pottery pieces, clay pots, replicas of gold pieces and paintings that evoke the lifestyle of the ancestors. At the end, continue by car to have breathtaking view of the Macizo Colombiano and the incredible waterfall of Salto del Mortiño. Return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. includes: Fruit tasting in the market. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY CITY TOUR & SURROUNDINGS The tour begins in the heart of San Agustín, exactly in the market square, where the farmers gather to

sell all their products, among them, fresh fruits such as passion fruit, papayas, sweet cucumbers, among others, and you will have the opportunity to taste. Afterwards go through the colonial and handicrafts streets of San Agustín while you get to know the history and the artistic murals that decorate the town. Then visit the town school, you can enter the classrooms and talk with the teachers or students and have a very authentic experience. Then climb a hill to have a beautiful view over the village. Then set off for the rural town of Isnos to see the Alto de Las Piedras Archaeological Park where there are a few well-preserved tombs and stone figures found so far. Continue by car to have breathtaking view of the Macizo Colombiano and visit the Chenguillo Viewpoint to enjoy magnificent view of the Magdalena canyon. Return to the hotel duration: 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. includes: Fruit tasting in the market. guide: Private bilingual guide.

THE AMAZON W

ords used to describe the Amazon can seldom to do any justice to this remarkable place that leaves an indelible imprint on the memory. The incredible size of the Amazon River, an irrepressible source of life, and the crisscross pattern of the smaller tributaries that splay out through the jungle leave a lasting impression. The Amazon is the second longest river in the world after the River Nile. Its water source are the runoffs of hundreds of rivers and streams that extend all the way from the Peruvian Andes north of the city of Arequipa representing the source of the 20% of fresh water in the planet. It runs for 6,275 kilometres from the Andes Mountains to Pará in Brazil, passing through principal cities such as Iquitos (Peru), Leticia (Colombia) and Manaus (Brazil). The city of Leticia is located on one of the banks of the Amazon River in the heart of the most resplendent and exuberant forest on earth. An imaginary line is drawn here creating a frontier between three countries: Colombia, Brazil and Peru. Leticia is the capital of the Colombian Amazon Department and the arrival port for flights from Bogotá, boats from Iquitos (Peru) and Manaus (Brazil) and the departure point to explore the area. It was founded in 1867 as San Antonio and was originally a Peruvian town until 1922 when it was ceded to Colombia and renamed becoming this country’s access to the “Green Lung”. Leticia is the point of departure for all expeditions launched to explore the jungle towards Manaus and Iquitos. It rains frequently in the Amazon, but the wettest season is between February and April. The rivers reach their highest levels from February until the start of June thus making it the best time for bird-watching, piranha fishing, pirarucu fishing (sport fishing) and seeing the Victoria Regia - an enormous aquatic lily plant with large purple flowers, white petals and floating leaves that can extend up to two meters in diameter. In this season, it is a little bit easier to see forest animals and reach most places by boat. The driest months are in July and August and water levels are at their lowest from August to November, when many beaches are created by the retreating waters at the riverbanks, and this is when the river turtles lay their eggs. During this season, it will be more comfortable to explore the area as paths will be less muddy and there will be fewer mosquitos, but many places will have to be reached by land, therefore requiring longer walks. Numerous indigenous communities live in these areas including the Huitotos, Yaguas and Ticunas all of whom have protected their cultures and traditions passing down their practices from generation to generation such as their knowledge of medicinal plants, magic, ceremonies and aptitudes for survival in the jungle. 75 km and 2hrs by boat from Leticia in the upper Amazon River is the town of Puerto Nariño which is considered to be the cradle of life of the Amazon for its natural and cultural setting of peace and harmony. This community is located on the banks of the river Loretoyaco where motor vehicles are outlawed and the only way of getting around is on foot. Puerto Nariño probably displays one of the purest and clearest examples sustainable community living where people are deeply involved in environmental issues, the preservation of river fauna and the ecosystem and live free from smog and pollution. The Tarapoto Lake is nearby, and its waters are like a natural aquarium as it is home to grey and pink river dolphins. NOTE: You will need to show a Yellow Fever vaccine proof. You are advised to have the vaccine 15 days prior to your journey. Tetanus and Hepatitis vaccines are recommendable.

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

THE AMAZON

distance 2:00 Hours FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT to LETICIA AIRPORT

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package

4 days - 3 nights

LETICIA & CALANOA day 1 | Leticia - Half Day City Tour Walking tour of the small city centre of Leticia, the capital of the Colombian Amazonas department. The visit starts at the Ethnographic Museum of the Amazonian Man where you will be able to appreciate a collection of objects and utensils used by the indigenous cultures from the region. Continue the tour by visiting the city’s parks and stroll Leticia´s streets with plenty of time to browse handicrafts shops and have a taste of a local brew of “chuchuhuaza”, an Amazonian aphrodisiac drink made from an endemic species of tree. meals: - / - / -

day 2 | Leticia - Calanoa After breakfast, transfer to pier for shared boat transfer to Calanoa, for about 30 minutes. Visit the Mocagua community, lunch and tour around the village and their painted houses. Return to Calanoa for a walking tour through the jungle and then return by canoe along Matamata stream, which has limits with the Amacayacu Natural National Park. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Calanoa - Puerto Nariño - Calanoa Depart in the morning for a trip along the Amazon River. Visit to Puerto Nariño, the second largest town in the department of Amazonas after Leticia. The town is a curious mix of colonists and native

people. It is considered as the cradle of the Amazon given its unequalled natural, cultural and harmonious setting. Later, travel on up the river to Tarapoto Lake where, it might be possible to see a great deal of interesting species such as the grey and pink river dolphins. Return to Calanoa. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Calanoa - Leticia After breakfast depart to Leticia by boat. Visit Omagua Reserve to experience canopy activity inside the jungle. Return to Leticia and private transport to airport. meals: B / - / -

package

4 days - 3 nights

LETICIA & MARASHA day 1 | Leticia - Tabatinga - Leticia Reception at Leticia airport and private transportation to the hotel. After lunch, City tour to Tabatinga, frontier with Brazil. Here you will visit the Chocolate House and it will be possible to appreciate the Amazon river and have a quick view of the commerce, music and population of this region. Then, visit Leticia’s local market, a traditional pharmacy of medicinal plants and the main square where a great amount of parrots fly overhead at sunset to their nests. meals: - / L / D

day 2 | Leticia - Puerto Nariño - Leticia After breakfast, take a boat through the Amazon River to visit the Victoria Regia and the Macedonia indigenous community where you can participate in a workshop with traditional seeds and paints. Then, continue to Puerto Nariño and after lunch visit the Tarapoto lake to enjoy the landscape and if you are lucky catch sight of the pink river dolphins. Return to hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Leticia - Marasha Natural Reserve In the morning leave Leticia and travel by boat to Marasha Natural Reserve located 25km away. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes upstream

on the Amazon River. Upon arrival at the Reserve start an educational walk that takes approximately 1:45 hours and will bring you close to nature allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape and the native flora and fauna. The excursion continues on to the Malokas which are ceremonial huts constructed in the local traditional way. Take a canoe trip out onto the lake to see the largest lily pads in the world: The Victoria Regia, variety of bird species and fish. Walk back to the pier for return boat transfer to Leticia. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Leticia After breakfast, private transport to the airport. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

package

7 days - 6 nights

JUNGLE INMERSION day 1 | Leticia - Marasha Upon arrival at Leticia airport you will transfer to the pier for your riverboat journey to Kurupira where you will have lunch at this impressive floating cabin. After lunch, your journey continues to the Natural Marasha Reservation (25 mins) in the Peruvian Amazon. Here you will be surrounded by the timeless rainforest and up close to the different types of trees including: Ceibas, Capinuris, Ohes and Chuchuaza to name just a few. To reach Marasha you will walk for roughly 45 minutes through the rainforest - in the rainy season when the water levels are high, this will be done by canoe and then check in. That very afternoon, you have the option of several activities including a trip to see the immense Victoria Regia lily pads, different primates, birds and even to cast a line and do some fishing. Later, enjoy a hearty dinner before heading out to do some night-time alligator spotting. Return to the Reserve, overnight stay. meals: - / L / D day 2 | Marasha Indigenous community After breakfast, leave from Marasha to visit a local indigenous community. Here you will experience life in this community, enjoy a lunch and then venture into deeper jungle to choose a suitable place to camp. Where you camp will depend on whether it’s the wet or dry season accordingly. Set up your camp and explore your surroundings before spending an unforgettable night in the jungle. meals: B / L / D

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

THE AMAZON

day 3 | Jungle camp Start the day with a jungle breakfast to prepare for the trek ahead. Here, whilst trekking you will observe animal tracks and different species of birds and possibly some more primates. Return for lunch and in the afternoon head out in search of more jungle fauna. Dinner and another night camping in the jungle. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Puerto Nariño After breakfast, you’ll break camp and transfer by boat to the town of Puerto Nariño where you’ll check in at the Waira Selva Hotel. Relax and freshen up before lunch. After lunch, you will receive a tour of Puerto Nariño and visit the Natutama Foundation (closed on Tuesdays) with its interactive museum where you will learn about the ecology of the Amazon, high and low water levels, conservation in this region, environmental education and all about the pink grey river dolphins. Later, walk up to the viewpoint for an overview of the local surroundings and visit a handicraft center staffed by locals who will happily share with you their stories and the history of this town. Dinner and accommodation. meals: B / L / D day 5 | Lagos de Tarapoto - Calanoa Today, after breakfast you will leave for a day of birdwatching near to the Julio 20 community. After lunch, you will visit the Tarapoto Lake, in particular the area near to Igarapehuazú where you may be able to see pink and grey river dolphins, various

species of birds and local fishermen at work (depending on the season). Your guide will be sure to point out the Capinurí tree of fertility as you follow the flooded forest towards Calanoa Natural Reservation. Dinner and accommodation. meals: B / L / D day 6 | Calanoa - Maikuchinga Foundation At an agreed hour, you will visit the Mono Churuco Miqueando project which is overseen by the Maikuchinga Foundation, in their quest to enable a conservation and protection of the Churuco monkey. There will be an opportunity to see and interact with Churuco monkeys in their natural jungle environment. At the same time in the company of expert guides you will learn about the diverse flora and fauna present here and enjoy an interpretive walk through the jungle with members of the local community. Return to Calanoa. Take a scenic canoe ride along Matamata river. Dinner and accommodation. meals: B / L / D day 7 | Leticia After breakfast, transfer by boat to Leticia and on to the airport for your return flight. meals: B / - / -

COFFEE TRIANGLE

THE

he coffee zone is a geographical area that comprises of three Colombian departments: Caldas, Risaralda and Quindío; with their respective capital cities of Manizales, Pereira and Armenia. The departments have many things in common including a deep-rooted coffee culture, the pre-Columbian history that is more ingrained than the Spanish legacy, its beautiful landscapes, the friendliness and hardworking nature of the people. Nevertheless, each has its particularities: Manizales stands out for its cultural life, museums and monuments; Armenia as the heart of the region and for being reconstructed after the earthquake of 1999, and Pereira due to its commercial activity, gastronomy and nightlife. Before the arrival of the Spanish in the mid XIX century, the area was inhabited by the Quimbaya people. This tribe had 80 caciques or independent chiefs of which 5 of these were high ranking. They lived in the midst of immense bamboo forests and they were experts in working “guadua” making instruments, tools and constructions. They were the first to work with metals, in approximately 500 bC, in what is presentday Colombian territory, using techniques such as lost wax, adopted from other South American tribes. Most of the coffee production in Colombia is based here and for that reason the region is aptly named as the “Coffee zone”, “Coffee Axis” or “Region or Coffee Triangle”. The climate, with temperatures that vary from 8 to 24 degrees; the geographic characteristics, a tropical Andean forest between 1,300 and 1,700 meters; and other geological issues permit such highquality coffee. The fertile valleys with their seemingly endless coffee plantations, traditional wooden houses with brightly coloured balconies and further constructions in guadua come together to create the typical and vibrant landscape of this region. It is believed that coffee was first cultivated by the Jesuits and then its use started growing gradually throughout the country and then for exportation towards the end of the XIX century. Coffee comes from a bush-like tree of the rubiáceas family and what is cultivated here in Colombia is the Arabica strain which is the most popular type. Historically coffee has always been present in one shape or form during man’s existence. It has been the drink of love and the drink of loss, happiness and sadness, friendship and loneliness. This sole commercial activity is the one that drove the three departments to unite to become a single region and it is here where the landscapes vary in shades of green due to coffee plantations, the clusters of banana trees and guaduales; The wax Palms - the national tree marks the spectacular Cocora Valley; other colours can be seen in the region such as in orchids, heliconias; in birds such as hummingbirds and parrots and in butterflies; in Los Nevados National Park which reaches altitudes surpassing 5,000m; and in the beautiful architecture of towns like Salento or Filandia. This region also is united by the beauty and warmth of its people.

distance Nearly 30 min FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT ºC

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NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

THE COFFEE TRIANGLE

TEMPERATURE

package

4 days - 3 nights

COFFEE TRIANGLE FROM RISARALDA (PEREIRA) day 1 | Bogotá - Pereira Arrive at Pereira airport, transfer to hotel and check in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / -

excursions

day 2 | Pereira - Buenavista - San Alberto Plantation and Coffee Processing - Pereira Half day visiting the coffee plantations along the steep hills typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view the green carpet of coffee plants that spread out as far as the horizon interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers. Visit to Hacienda San Alberto one of the coffee estates typical of the region and located near the town of Buenavista Quindío. The tour begins with an introductory talk about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The route continues through the plantations, appreciating the work of the coffee pickers as well as understanding the famous humid coffee that is characteristic of Colombian coffee.

HALF DAY BIRD WATCHING IN RIO BLANCO Depart early in the morning (approx.5am) and travel for about 1:30 hours towards the Rio Blanco Natural Reserve in the department of Caldas. The reserve´s primary purposes are to supply water to the city of Manizales, for research and for natural preservation. Recently, within its management plans, ecotourism and recreation were introduced as it is an ideal place to enjoy bird watching and appreciate other species of flora and fauna. So far, 362 of endemic species of birds have been identified here including the Chestnut Wood Quail (Odontophorus hyperythrus), the Black-thighed Puffleg (Eriocnemis derbyi), the

Walk through the coffee plantations and learn about the production system in minute detail, including the harvest, the drying to the sun and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain Range which has been declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO and that offers the perfect climatic conditions for coffee growing. Free remainder of the afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Pereira - Valle del Cocora, Salento & Filandia - Pereira After breakfast, leave for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the department of Quindío. This makes part of the Parque Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm” (Ceroxylon quincense), the national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60m. Around here a great number of species of birds live, in particular some types of hummingbird and the orejíamarillo or the palm parrot (Ognorhynchus icteroti) which is endangered. Upon arrival in the valley, either hiking or on horseback (not included), head into the cloud forest to

Bearded Helmetcrest (Oxypogon guerinii), Brownbanded Antpitta (Gral-laria milleri), the Hooded Antpitta ((Grallaricula cucullata), the Rufous-breasted Flycatcher (Leptopogon rufipectus), the Goldenfronted Whitestart (Myioborus ornatus) and the Scrub Tanager (Tangara vitriolina), along with other migrating species that are seen specially in August and October. The tour is guided by an expert of the area who knows the best spots for bird watching. duration: Approximately 6 hours from Manizales, 7 hours from Pereira and 8 hours from Armenia. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindío while walking along an ecological pathway which takes one past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshipped this tree. Then you can have a typical lunch (not included) and enjoy some free time here. In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento to enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colourful balconies, the Calle Real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint. Then, transfer to the traditional village of Filandia to enjoy a city tour that includes the viewpoint, the colonial homes, the Plaza de Bolivar and the coffee shops. Here, enjoy some time soaking up the regional atmosphere and perhaps some local spirits before returning to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | Pereira Transfer to the airport after breakfast. meals: B / - / NOTE: This tour is also available from Quindío department, Armenia.

HALF DAY PLANTATIONS AND COFFEE PROCESSING IN HACIENDA VENECIA Half day visiting the coffee plantations along the steep rolling hills so typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view the green carpet of coffee plants that spreads out as far as the horizon interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers. The visit continues on to one of the coffee haciendas to see the plantations and the production system in minute detail, including the harvest, the drying to the sun and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain range which is perfect for this crop. The visit to the property begins in the house with an introductory chat about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The route continues through the grounds, appreciating its coffee plantations and the work of the coffee pickers as well as to understand the famous humid coffee that is characteristic of Colombian coffee. Visit the main house on the property to enjoy the local typical architecture and history. Taste different coffee brews and return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 5 hours from Manizales, 6 hours from Armenia and 5 hours from Pereira. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY TOUR ORCHIDS FARM LA ROMELIA A half day visit Finca Romelia, just outside of La Cabaña - close to Manizales, to observe their wonderful collection of orchids. The owners, José and Maria have dedicated the vast majority of their lives to the agriculture, collection and preservation of orchids (amongst other plants), coupled with the conservation and preservation of the flora and fauna

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

of the region. They have over 6,000 orchids and 832 different species as well as a variety of carnivorous plants, bonsais and have seen 165 different species of wild birds on the grounds. The tour begins with a walk around the grounds of the Finca where visitors can observe cultivation of avocados and citrus plants and enjoy the native forests of this beautiful part of the coffee region. Guests are then taken around the orchid nursery and farmhouse where the cultivation process is explained as well as an explanation of the Finca’s contribution to preservation projects. Visitors will then have a chance to try some of the produce grown on the farm. duration: Approximately 5 hours from Pereira or 3 hours from Manizales. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: We recommend including this tour in the transfer from the Coffee Region to Medellín. A minimum of two people is required for this tour.

HALF DAY PIJAO´S GARDENS The town of Pijao is the first “slow city” or “Cittaslow” in Latin America and the emphasis here is to improve the population’s quality of life by slowing everything down. Here, in this oasis of calm, you will appreciate Pijao’s cultural heritage and pristine colonial architecture. As you tour around the town, you will be

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

invited to visit some of the town’s most emblematic and representative homes and have the opportunity to interact and talk with the traditional families living there as you enjoy their interior gardens. After trying some traditional drinks from Pijao, your excursion will come to an end in the picturesque central plaza. duration: Approximately 5 hours from Armenia, 6 hours from Pereira and 8 hours from Manizales. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY BIKE TOUR IN THE COFFEE REGION This is a full day of biking adventure where you have the chance to explore varied terrain, see incredible landscapes and visit traditional coffee pueblos and ultimately enjoy great coffee and more! There may be no better way to experience coffee culture in the traditional coffee region - a UNESCO World Heritage site - than on two wheels. Your bike ride will take you through coffee and banana plantations, bamboo forests and past cultivations of exotic fruits. As you breathe in the fresh countryside air you will possible be able to see different species of birds, monkeys, butterflies and much of Colombia’s cornucopia of nature on display. Choose one from the following routes: Coffee Valley (Vereda Montegrande, Caicedonia - Valle del Cauca), Colonial Salento Tour or route of Las Palmas (18-kilometer route to the Reserva del Valle de Cócora with a stop in Finca El Ocaso).

THE COFFEE TRIANGLE

duration: 2 to 6 hours depending on your fitness. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Bilingual guide. difficulty level: Low - Medium. NOTE: Includes bike rental, support car, water, snack and lunch.

FULL DAY COLOMBIAN CACAO EXPERIENCE Colombia is renowned for its excellent coffee, but the rich and fertile soils of the coffee region also produce some of the world’s best cacao. On this full day tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery with picture postcard landscapes, rolling green hills and colonial villages and of course, visit a working cacao plantation. Visitors will learn about the entire process of cacao cultivation and will have the opportunity to toast and grind their own seeds in order to make fresh hot chocolate before having lunch on the farm. In the afternoon guests have a chance to visit the small town of Marsella to see the stunning main square and traditional architectural style found in the coffee region. There will be time to enjoy a cup of coffee in Marsella before heading back to the hotel. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

At Casa

San Carlos Lodge, you'll be sorrounded by the most famous coffee landscapes in Colombia.

Here you'll also enjoy a gastronomic master class of colombia’s most tipical appetizers with our house Chef.

Book now: reservassancarlos

Km 6 Vía Marsella. Pereira - Colombia - www.casasancarloslodge.com

RNT 51181

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SANTANDER T

he department of Santander is located in the central northeastern part of Colombia along one side of the Andes. The capital of the department is Bucaramanga, 414km and 8 hours overland from Bogotá, or 45 minutes by air. It is known for being a well ordered and pretty city at 960 m.a.m.s.l. and with more than 90 parks and its year-round spring-like climate. The region has different micro-climates and the temperature oscillates, according to region, between 15 and 28 ºC providing the ideal setting for dry forest and sub Andean forest. Santander stands out for its cultural and historical wealth. The first murmurs of republicanism and anti-Spanish sentiment were uttered here. All through the different towns in the region one can see Spanish colonial architecture. Thanks in part to the department’s varied geography this area has become the centre for all adventure sports in Colombia. Without doubt Santanderean food is some of the most flavoursome and interesting in particular the tamales and corn based arepas. Traditional Santanderean villages make this a region that is attractive to visit for its cultural wealth as well as its natural beauty. The small town of San Gil, located at 1110m and along the River Fonce, can be easily reached from Bogotá, Villa de Leyva or Bucaramanga over land. This is the mecca of all extreme sports in Colombia and so San Gil has gained the reputation of being the land of adventure. Canoeing, Rafting, hiking, caving, rappelling and paragliding are just some of the options available here. Approximately 20km from San Gil or 30 minutes by car is the town of Barichara which was declared a National Architectural Monument in 1975. It is located on a plateau alongside the River Suarez at 1336m. This used to be the twelfth village that belonged to the Guane indigenous people in the pre-Columbian era. Presently it is the only Colombian town that can boast as having totally preserved all of the colonial Spanish stonework and architecture. The Chicamocha National Park was opened in 2006 and borders the majestic Chicamocha canyon. This is the second largest canyon in the world. By cable car visitors can travel from one side to another during a 30-minute journey, covering a distance of 6.3 km. This cable car is also renowned as it is one of the longest of its type in the world. Santander, land of adventure and culture, with its deep canyons with bubbling rivers of varied colours, mountainous landscapes, waterfalls that break through sub Andean forests and tumble into underground caverns, conserves in its daily routine the purest form of its culture and what it has inherited from the pre-Hispanic tribe of the Guane people. Blend this in with the architecture and urbanism left by the Spanish which includes and extensive network of “Caminos Reales” or Royal Pathways that connect towns, unusual local gastronomy, strength in character and start to understand the Santanderean way of life.

TOLIMA

CALDAS

Río Magdalena

CUNDINAMARCA Barbosa

Bogotá

Zipaquirá

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

SANTANDER

Tunja

Moniquirá

Villa de Leyva

SANTANDER Palonegro Airport

Socorro

Barichara San Gil

BOYACÁ

Bucaramanga Pie de Cuesta

Cañón del Chicamocha

distance Nearly 30 min FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT ºC

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3 days - 2 nights

BARICHARA day 1 | Villa de Leyva - Barichara Transfer by car from Villa de Leyva to Barichara. The transfer takes approximately 6 hours (235km). Along the way the route passes Andean forests, the city of Tunja which is the capital of Boyacá and the historic town of Socorro. Arrival to Barichara and overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Barichara and Guane This town was declared a National Architectural Monument in 1975 for the well-preserved urban structure and colonial Spanish-style architecture. The houses are expansive and encompass a cloister style design around internal gardens, intricate stonework and clay tiles on the rooftops. The cobblestone streets speak volumes for the culture and the population of this Santanderean town that is known for its cuisine, stone-masonry, weaving, tobacco growing and gathering “hormigas culonas”, large ants (fried up and eaten and considered an aphrodisiac). Pick up at the hotel to start your trip to Guane, a small town located on a tiny plateau beside the hills and alongside the majestic Suarez River. This journey can be made by car or on foot (approximately 2 hours) along the old Camino Real which extends 5km connecting the Guane with the town of Barichara. This ancient pathway was made by the pre-Columbian indigenous and it was paved in stones the German Geo Von Lengerke in 1867. While treading the footsteps of an ancestral culture, appreciate beautiful landscapes, valleys and fossils, besides seeing the way of life of the peasants and their crops. If you do it by car, after 20-minute drive, arrive in Guane. This perfectly preserved colonial village, with a

pre-Columbian past, dating to the XVII century is at an altitude of 1100m. Visit Isaias Duarte Cancino Paleontological and Archaeological Museum to see fossils from the region, various pieces from the Guanes indigenous people, where a mummy of a girl stands out, religious antiquities and objects from different eras. Also, visit the Santa Lucia Church made in stone, the fossil and sabajón stores (typical drink of the region) and the Central Plaza. The tour continues by car to Barichara for a tour on foot or by car in the town centre. The Plaza Principal is elegantly ringed by tall palm trees and leafy foliage, and on the western edge of the park is the Alcaldia, a truly colonial edifice with large balconies, internal stone columns and the monument to the Hormiga Culona in its central patio. The churches of note are La Inmaculada Concepción and San Lorenzo Mártie which have altars bathed in gold. At the top of the town is the Capilla de Santa Barbara built at the end of the XVIII century and on one side is a huge ceiba tree. This tree was scared to the indigenous Guane people that inhabited these lands prior to the arrival of the Spanish. The Parque para Las Artes Jorge Delgado Sierra is littered with interesting stone sculptures contributed by both local artists and international ones. The Casa Natal de Aquileo Parra, the 11th President of Colombia, is today a small museum and also an elderly peoples’ recreation centre where they can work on handicrafts. There are outstanding viewpoints from which one can enjoy views of the Suarez river valley as well as the town’s streets and architectural offerings. Afterwards, visit the Casa de Arte de Oficios, where local artists display their works such as cotton and fique weavings. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

day 3 | Barichara - Chicamocha Canyon Bucaramanga After breakfast, 3 hours transfer to Bucaramanga. On the road stop at the majestic Chicamocha canyon, at the bottom runs the river by the same name that created the second largest canyon in the world. The park extends for approximately 342 hectares. The heat of this region is tempered only by a refreshing breeze which makes it ideal for hiking the pathways and trails which lead to various attractions on this rugged and unique terrain. A cable car runs for 6,3km of the canyon over a period of 30 minutes. This is one of the largest and longest cable car rides in the world. Within the park it’s worth taking the time to visit the replica Santander town, the Guane Museum, the Monument to Santaderean culture, the Viewpoint and the Goat and Ostrich park amongst other things. This is a nucleus where Santander meets and allows one to enjoy the architecture of the region, the landscapes and the cuisine. Continue the trip to Bucaramanga’s airport for departure flight. meals: B / - / NOTES: The walk from Barichara to Guane has a moderate difficulty level. The path is mostly descent with short climbs. It starts at 1,300 m.a.m.s.l. to 1,020 m.a.m.s.l. Suitable for any type of age. It is recommended up to 75 years old, with good physical and health conditions. Isaías Duarte Cancino Paleontological and Archaeological Museum in Guane is closed on Wednesdays, but the closing day may change without prior notice. On Tuesday in Barichara the churches, chapels, the cemetery and the Arts Park, are closed. We suggest not offering this tour Tuesday or Wednesday. Very often some tourist sites and workshops in Barichara and Guane closed without notice. These handle irregular opening hours and we cannot guarantee entry to all the mentioned sites.

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

excursions

HALF DAY CAVING Leave by car to the jump off point, 25 minutes from San Gil on the road to El Paramo. Upon arrival walk a short distance of 5 minutes to the entry point of the cave known as the “Cueva del Indio” where there is fresh running water within. After a technical chat and an equipment check, begin exploring the cave. The first part of the adventure is done in an upright position as there is a bit of water and the passages can be narrow before crossing into huge caverns populated with bats that fly through the stalagmites and stalactites. In order to leave this cave, a jump down of 5m into a small pool is required, bringing one along the river and over a distance of 2km before a little walk up and out towards the main square of the town of El Paramo where transport is waiting for the return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 4 hours from San Gil or Barichara and 6 hours from Bucaramanga. schedule: To be arranged in the morning before midday. guide: Private or SIB services. HALF DAY ECOLOGICAL WALK TO THE WATERFALLS OF JUAN CURI Leave from San Gil or Barichara for a 40-minute drive along the road to Charalá, a traditional Santanderean town so-called to honour the Guane Cacique “Chalala”. Along the way admire and enjoy beautiful Santanderean landscapes before arriving at the starting point.

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

SANTANDER

From here the spectacular waterfall is visible and the hike begins. The walk starts in the open and on a sunny pathway towards the torrents of water that flow along the Juan Curí River. After 30 minutes, the pathway enters the verdant forests and the scenery changes. On arriving there is an abundance of nature and a natural swimming pool that has been formed by the waterfall where bathing is possible. This is a magical place where energy is replenished, and one can enjoy nature and the fresh water. duration: Approximately 5 hours from San Gil or Barichara and 7 hours from Bucaramanga. schedule: To be arranged in the morning before midday. guide: Private or SIB services. HALF DAY RAFTING Leave from the jetty on the riverbanks of the River Fonce located 30 minutes from San Gil or Barichara. After a short walk to the jump off point, receive a technical debriefing and then start rafting. The trip takes place in an inflatable raft navigating down a freshwater river. The average descent is 7 per cent with no major changes. Over the course of 1:30 hours and a distance of 9km the experience will cover strong rapids (Grade III) in the first section, gentle waters in the second and end with Grade II rapids before arriving in the San Gil Country Club opposite the Parque Gallineral. During the whole expedition riverside forest and typical Santanderean landscapes will be on show.

duration: Approximately 4 hours from San Gil or Barichara and 6 hours from Bucaramanga. schedule: To be arranged in the morning before midday. guide: Private or SIB services (boat capacity is for 7 people but there is an option for a two person boat plus a guide). HALF DAY SOCORRO Leave for Socorro, a town 2 hour from Bucaramanga by highway and 20 minutes from San Gil. The tour starts on foot to visit the most interesting sights along the way in the town centre. Socorro is known for its role in history as it is here that the first major uprising against the Spanish Crown occurred in 1781, led by the hero and native of Socorro, José Antonio Galán. This movement led to the cry for independence on July 20, 1810. Socorro is a Spanish colonial village nestled deep in the Suarez River valley. Its architecture is well preserved and buildings that are of note and of interest include the Principal Socorro Park, the Cathedral Temple, the House of Culture and the Capuchin Monastery. duration: Approximately 4 hours from San Gil or Barichara and 6 hours from Bucaramanga. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

caÑo cristales C

año Cristales, the mythical river of five colours is found deep in the department of Meta close to the towns of La Macarena, Mesetas, Vistahermosa, San Juan de Arama and Puerto Rico, making up part of the Sierra de La Macarena National Park. This place is important for its profound biological and geological significance, as it is one of the oldest formations of the planet, which means that the organisms that inhabit here have a long evolutionary history producing unique species. Additionally, this area is the meeting point for the Andean, Amazonian, and the Orinoco ecosystems. The Caño Cristales River owes its red color to an algae called Macarenia Clavijera which is on the surface of the rocks along the river. The quartzite rocks of the Serrania de la Macarena plateau were formed approximately 1.2 billion years ago. They are a western extension of the Guiana Shield of Venezuela, Guyana, and Brazil and belong to the oldest exposed rocks in the world. Caño Cristales is a fast river with many rapids and waterfalls. In some areas of the river bed there has been a particular style of erosion which has formed small circular pits - giant’s kettles - which have been formed by pebbles or chunks of harder rocks. One of these harder rock fragments falls into one of the cavities and it is rotated by the waters current and begins to scrape at the cavity wall and increases the dimensions of the pit. The river is especially beautiful after the rainy period, in late July - November when the red Macarenia clavigera thrives. Between December and June, the park doesn’t receive tourists, because the ecosystem is protected for the next season. To get to La Macarena you can travel either from Bogotá or Villavicencio by air. From Bogotá there are charter flights on some weekdays (Only Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays). From the cowboy city of Villavicencio which is 3 hours by car from Bogotá there are flights in small aircraft every day.

Bogotá Madrid

Parque Nacional Chingaza

Medina

Villavicencio Parque Nacional Natural Sumapaz

Acacias

El Brasil

Mesetas

Puerto Rico Vistahermosa Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de La Macarena

La Macarena

distance 40 min FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT ºC

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NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

CAÑO CRISTALES

Puerto Concordia

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package

3 days - 2 nights day 1 | Bogotá - La Macarena - Caño Cristales Leave Bogotá on a direct flight to La Macarena and upon arrival meet your local guide who will accompany you to your hotel. Here you will have an introductory talk about the region and then set off on a boat trip along the Guayabero River to Cristalitos where you will walk to Caño Piedra. Enjoy a traditional lunch in the field before continuing the hike and then return to the town of La Macarena for dinner and to overnight. meals: - / L / D

day 2 | Caño Cristales After breakfast, take a river trip along the Guayabero for 20 minutes and disembark on the other bank. From here you will travel by 4x4 to the Cajuche spring where you will start your gently hike to Caño Cristales. Known as the river of five colours due to the red, green, yellow, blue and black hues on show, you will enjoy this beautiful river and a series of different waterfalls. As the river is protected, CORMACARENA (La Macarena Regional Autonomous Corporation), controls access to which branch of the river you can visit. Enjoy lunch during your excursion and later return to your hotel in La

Macarena. In the evening enjoy music, dance and gastronomy of the region. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | La Macarena - Bogotá Enjoy a morning trip to Cristalitos, El Mirador or Caño Piedra before returning to La Macarena for your flight back to Bogotá. meals: B / - / NOTE: This itinerary may have changes, according to the permits granted by the environmental entities in charge of the park.

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

NaRIño L

ocated in the southwest of Colombia, the department of Nariño has an embarrassment of natural wealth, many micro climates, altitudes ranging from just a few meters above sea level to several thousand meters. With this range of altitudes, you can visit cloud forests, waterfalls, lagoons, volcanoes, wetlands, warm valleys and even tropical beaches on the Pacific coast. In addition to the natural beauties of Nariño the region is recognized for his handicrafts known as the Barniz de Pasto. Founded in 1593 the historic capital of Nariño is San Juan de Pasto and it is here that all the administrative, cultural and religious institutions in the region have their base. Just 2 hours south from Pasto is the town of Ipiales known for its incredible church called the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Las Lajas. Built as if hanging from the valley wall at 2,612 meters above sea level this is a true wonder of architectural skill and has become a major site for pilgrims in Colombia. In Nariño, there are many important cultural events to choose from ranging from the Currulao Festival of music, the Fire Festival and the Carnaval de Blancos y Negros in Pasto, famous across Colombia and recognized by UNESCO, which takes place between January 2 and 7.

El Charco

Tumacao Buchely

CAUCA

NARIÑO Taminango

Pasto

Providencia

ECUADOR

La Planda Tuquerres Pupiales Ipiales

distance

PUTUMAYO

1:25 HOURS FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT ºC

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NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

NARIÑO

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excursions

package

4 days - 3 nights day 1 | Pasto - La Cocha Arrive at the Antonio Nariño airport in Pasto and travel along the highway towards the department of Putumayo. On this route, just 40 minutes from Pasto you will reach the Laguna de la Cocha or Lake Guamuez, a sacred place known for its beauty and spiritual energy. This lake is the second is the second most important body of water in Colombia behind only that of the Laguna de Tota in Boyacá and is found at 2,660 meters above sea level. Check-in at Chalet Guamuez. Your day will continue by viewing the picturesque bridges and houses found here and then visit a traditional home to talk to the owners about their organic crops, guinea pig far, their gardens and try some local delicacies include a locally-made drink. You will hear about how local families are protecting the natural environment now and how they have preferred to turn these traditional farming lands into a natural reservation. Head from here to Isla Larga to view floating trout hatcheries and enjoy some lunch. Continue on a boat trip on the waters of Laguna de la Cocha to visit the island of La Corota where there is a flora and fauna sanctuary - itself the smallest sanctuary of this type in Colombia - home to a varied amount of animal species and plants. You will finish your day by visiting a distillery where they make wine from wild mulberries. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: - / L / -

day 2 | La Cocha - Pasto –Nuestra Señora de Las Lajas Sanctuary - Pasto After breakfast, transfer to San Juan de Pasto, the departmental capital of Nariño in the southwest of Colombia, a city famous for its imposing and well-preserved religious architecture dating back to colonial and republican eras. Pasto is home to important local artists and craftsmen and so you’ll begin the day by visiting some of these workshops to view various techniques such as the Mopa Mopa -carved wooden utensils with a fruit resin finish- and the Barniz de Pasto -an indigenous practice for woodworking- and learn all about the history and significance of these activities. Your next destination is the Carnival Museum where there is a permanent exhibition dedicated to Pasto’s most famous annual event, the Carnival of Blacks and Whites (or Carnival de los Blanco y Negros in Spanish). This event takes place every January and you will learn about its relevance, history and see a frieze and murals depicting the activities of the carnival. You will understand the importance of the Comparsas and Carnivalito and see a replica float on display in the main hall of the museum. After lunch, leave on a two-hour journey to Ipiales during which you will enjoy the varied geography and patchwork green scenery of this part of the Andes in Nariño. Just 7km from the town of Ipiales you will reach the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora of Las Lajas which hangs to the valley wall at an altitude of 2,612 meters above sea level. This is a major destination for religious pilgrims in Colombia and in 2015, Britain’s Daily Telegraph newspaper named it as the most

FULL DAY MYSTHICAL AND ARTISANAL PUTUMAYO On this excursion, you will travel the beautiful inter-Andean valley of Sibundoy in the southern department of Putumayo where the Andes mountain meet the Amazon jungle in an explosion of vibrancy and culture. Leaving from Pasto to the Sibundoy Valley (2 hours), you will cross four municipalities: Santiago, Colon, Sibundoy and San Francisco. There are two indigenous populations - Ingas and Kamentza - still inhabiting this area and they are of great importance. During the tour, visit a “Taita” from the community (a respected elder with a huge spiritual knowledge) who will invite you to enter his house of rituals, and who will offer you spiritual cleansing. Once the ritual is finished and you are once again connected to the earth’s energy you can visit an artisans’ market run by the local women. Traditional local lunch and return to Pasto. duration: 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

Volcano such as Yacuanquer, Consaca, Sandoná, La Florida, Nariño and Pasto. As this area can stake the claim to being the birthplace of the mountain ranges in the region, you will travel for 1:30 hours over small plateaus, a tapestry of greens and other geographical curiosities. You will see local farmers with their horse and carts loaded up with sugar cane, coffee, corn or with fresh fruit. You will visit a coffee farm and a traditional trapiche of the region. A trapiche is a small factory where sugar cane juice is cooked up to produce panela. Here you can sample traditional products such as melcocha and guarapo, which come from the sugarcane. Lunch is prepared by a local family of the region and it is accompanied with some live local music. In the town of Sandoná, you will visit workshops which make paja toquilla woven hats, following a century old tradition that has survived thanks to the dedication of so many families. In the Basilica of Sandoná, you will see the biggest effigy of Jesus Christ carved from wood in South America (6.50 m). duration: 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

CULTURAL FULL DAY: HANDICRAFTS, SUGARCANE AND TRADITIONAL MUSIC Today you will visit the Nudo de los Pastos and the different towns which are located on the Galeras

beautiful temple of this type in the world. Descend by cable car to the Sanctuary, enter the museum and visit the church. In the evening, you can enjoy a show when the lights of the Sanctuary are illuminated. Walk up from the Sanctuary to the parking area and transfer back to Pasto. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 3 | Pasto - Green Lagoon - Pasto Your day begins early as you journey from Pasto to Tuquerres, stopping on the way for breakfast before your trek up the Azufral Volcano. Once you reach 4000m above sea level and the very summit of the volcano, you will see the green and black lagoons and enjoy views from the lowest active volcano in Nariño. You will hike round a part of the green lagoon at an area known as the Nudo de los Pastos before descending for roughly 3 hours and taking in the otherworldly scenery of frailejones, pajonales, valleys in the distance and the flora and fauna of this high-altitude moorlands. This is the time to enjoy the scenery, peace and silence of the place. Descend to Túquerres. Lunch. Return to the city of Pasto. Overnight stay. This route crosses the páramo ecosystem (moorland) so the climate will be cold due to the altitude, wind and location between mountain, so expect rain. meals: B / L / day 4 | Pasto Breakfast and transfer to the airport. meals: B / L / -

NOTE: The trapiches are open from Monday to Thursday.

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

THE T

EASTERN PLAINS

he capital of the department of Casanare is the city of Yopal, a place which was founded on February 22nd 1915, and which is an indigenous word referring to the heart of a particular tree. Yopal is steeped in history as it was here that the forces loyal to the independence movement pursued and expelled Spanish forces from what is now Colombia in the 19th century. The region of Los Llanos Orientales (Eastern Plains) consists of savannahs covered with flooded grasslands, lush forests and wild rivers that derive from the vast Orinoco basin. The llaneros have a very distinct culture and continue to preserve traditions such as horseback riding barefoot, singing to call and ease their cattle, and playing the harp and the cuatro guitar. Declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2017, llaneros’ work songs are a means of vocal communication sung a cappella style on the themes of herding, horses, adventures, and love. Corocora Camp is located in El Encanto de Guanapalo, a 9,000-hectare private reserve in the region of Los Llanos, also known as Orinoquia. This private reserve is home to a diversity of wildlife including deer, capybaras, jaguars, pumas, howler monkeys, giant anteaters, pygmy anteaters, and more than 200 bird species. It’s also a natural habitat of the anaconda, one of 65 species of reptiles in the area. The entire region of Los Llanos is home to more than 600 bird species and 200 mammal species, including giant otters and exceptional pink river dolphins. The Camp works in partnership with Cunaguaro, a local conservation organization that leads the installation of camera traps and tracking devices to monitor species, collaborates with guest scientists, and implements essential community and educational projects. On the other hand, just 180km from Yopal is the vast private reservation of Hato la Aurora which is Colombia´s answer to a safari. Spreading over 17,000ha the reservation includes the towns of Ariporo and Hato Corozal. On the lands of Hato La Aurora there is an abundance of animals including, jaguars, chigüiros, white-tailed deers, capybaras and anteaters, as well as birds such as the scarlet ibis (Eudocimus ruber) and burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia). If you are very lucky, sometimes you can witness the release of an anaconda into the wild. On this reservation, there are approximately 390 species of birds and it is truly a wildlife paradise in Colombia.

El Risaralda Charco

Hato La Aurora

Parque Nacional Natural Pisba Tumacao Buchely

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

the eASTERN PLAINS

La Resaca

NARIÑO Taminango

Yopal

Pasto

Providencia

BOGOTÁ ECUADOR

La Planda Corocora Camp Tuquerres Pupiales Ipiales

distance

PUTUMAYO

Nearly 30 min FLIGHT from bogotá AIRPORT ºC

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CAUCA

Hato Cerezal

TEMPERATURE

package

4 days - 3 nights

COROCORA CAMP day 1 | Yopal - Corocora Camp Arrive at the Yopal airport, where an Englishspeaking host and a driver will be waiting for you to take you to Corocora camp. After 2 hours on paved roads and approximately 45 minutes driving inside the reserve, arrival at the camp. You can take a nature walk to explore the reserve in search of local wildlife, including deer, capybaras, anacondas, jaguars, pumas, ocelots, howler monkeys and giant anteaters, or partake in one of the camp’s included experiences: bird watching, canoeing, or artisanal fishing*. Overnight stay. meals: - / L / D day 2 | Corocora Camp In the morning or afternoon, a half-day horseback riding with a local llanero cowboy and a bilingual naturalist guide, where you can experience the essence of the culture and explore the most inaccessible and natural parts of the reserve. It is

recommended to do it from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., when the sun and heat are low and the animals are more active. You will have a half-day expedition on-board a 4x4 or tractor, to explore the most remote areas of the reserve. The expedition combines driving and walking to view more wildlife, explore inaccessible areas such as gallery forest. Please note that the type of vehicle will be adapted depending on the weather and road conditions. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Corocora Camp Spend the early morning hours with llanero cowboys experiencing their traditions: barefoot horseback riding, herding and corralling cattle, using a lasso, and singing to call and ease cattle. Witness why llanero chants were declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Recommended 5:30am - 10:00am when llaneros do their daily activities. Conclude the day with a traditional parrando, which consists of a bonfire dinner and live music: harp,

guitars, and maracas. Llanero songs recount stories of adventure, love, nature and traditions. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Corocora Camp - Yopal Breakfast. Learn about the conservation initiatives such as visiting the camera traps to do maintenance and acquire recent footage, and learn about the tracking systems. Transfer to Yopal airport with an English-speaking host and a driver. After 2 hours and 45 minutes, arrival at the airport to take your flight. meals: B / - / Note: Electricity is very limited, there is no Internet connection. Easyfly airline (BOG - EYP) allows 15 kg of luggage per person. The order of activities can be adjusted according to customer preferences and flight itineraries. In dry season, artisanal fishing and canoeing may be canceled, these will be replaced by nature walks, birdwatching or the conservation program.

excursions

4 days - 3 nights

HATO LA AURORA day 1 | Bogotá - Yopal After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Yopal. Upon arrival, you will have a fourhour transfer by 4x4 to the Eco-hotel called Juan Solito. During this transfer, you will have your first opportunity to fully appreciate the landscapes and animals visible from your vehicle. In the afternoon, you will embark on a short boat ride to enjoy the sunset and learn more about the flora and fauna of the Llanos. Overnight stay. meals: - / L / D day 2 | La Aurora - Safari After breakfast, you will drive to see the Hato La Aurora, located 1:30 hours from your hotel. This walk is one of the main attractions, as this is a pure example of the coexistence between wild animals, endemic vegetation and traditional cattle ranching. This tour is done in 4x4 vehicles, or by horse. During

the tour, you will get to see capybaras, white-tailed deer, alligators, cattle, wild horses, wild pigs, and some birds like the Aruco, egrets, herons, curlews, owls, guereres, and the scarlet ibis amongst others. At the original house, you will observe the day to day activities of these traditional cattle ranchers. At noon, lunch will be served and you can expect a healthy platter of different meats, cheeses and the ubiquitous rice and plantains to go with it all. Relax for a while and return to the hotel. After dinner enjoy a folkloric demonstration of harps, poems and traditional folk songs and listen to the different stories and legends which abound in this region. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | La Aurora - Horse Ride After breakfast, you have the opportunity to channel your inner cowboy and saddle up to ride though the grounds of El Hato. You will pitch in with all of the different ranching activities and live for today like a

cowboy. If this seems too much, you can choose to tour the different pathways and trails near to the hotel to learn more about the local plant species and of course do some lightweight birdwatching and hopefully spot some resident howler monkeys. In the afternoon, weather permitting, grab your rod and reel and head out for some fishing. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D Note: The order of the excursions may vary depending on the weather.

day 4 | Corocora Camp - Yopal Yopal - Bogotá Transfer to Yopal airport for your flight to Bogotá. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: Hato La Aurora does not have Wifi or hot water.

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

BIRDWATCHING IN

COLOMBIA

package

2 days - 1 night

BIRDWATCHING IN MONTEZUMA RESERVE The Montezuma Ecological Reserve is located on the slope that connects the department of Risaralda with the Chocó. It is around a considerable cloud forest, bordering the Tatamá National Natural Park, which has a richness in fauna and flora, worthy of knowing. Montezuma is considered one of the best places for bird watching in the world; there are 12 species of endemic birds in Colombia and at least 35 species endemic that share with Ecuador. This adventure is designed for bird lovers and observers who enjoy seeing different and beautiful landscapes. The variety of landscapes from the coffee region will allow discovering unique birds, according to the ecosystem. day 1 | Pereira - Montezuma Reserve The experience begins early morning with a transfer of approximately 2 hours from Pereira to Montezuma Reserve. When you arrive at Montezuma reserve,

you will do check in at the Ecolodge and take lunch. Then, you will take a walk to reach the highest elevations of the reserve, where you may see with the guide’s help birds such as Munchique WoodWren, Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer, White-faced Nunbird and among others. Return to the lodge to have dinner. Overnight stay in the lodge. meals: - / L / D day 2 | Montezuma Reserve - Pereira This second day begins with breakfast at the lodge. Early transfer to the lower part of the reserve. There, the expert guide in birds and you will prepare for an expedition in which it will expect to observe Gold-ringed and Black-and-Gold Tanagers, Black Solitaire, OIlivaceous Piha and among others. Later, the tour continues in an area where it is located hummingbird feeders. In this place, you will see species like Velvet-purple Coronet, Violet-tailed Sylph and White-tailed Hillstar. Return to the lodge to have lunch. Return to Pereira. meals: B / L / -

M asked trogon , trogon personatus

NOTE: It is recommended to bring camera and binoculars.

package

3 days - 2 nights

BIRDWATCHING IN EL DORADO RESERVE El Dorado Bird Nature Reserve was created in March 2006, based on the urgency of conserving one of the most fragile and important sites in Colombia such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a habitat of a large number of animal species and unique vegetation. This reserve is an exclusive place to observe endemic birds. day 1 | Santa Marta - El Dorado Reserve Arrival at Santa Marta Airport in the morning (SMR). There, you will be picked up and taken to El Dorado Lodge inside El Dorado Reserve. El Dorado Bird Reserve, belonging to ProAves, is home to many numbers of flora and fauna and has the highest density of endemic species with some degree of danger of extinction. This afternoon at the lodge, you will see several hummingbirds, contemplate

NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

the Caribbean beaches at 6000 feet and observe snowy peaks from the bird watching tower. Also, you will take a tour around the lodge to make birdwatching such as the Colombian Brushfinch, Santa Marta Brush-Finch and lots of endemic subspecies including Cinnamon Flycatcher, Black-hooded Thrush, Blue-capped Tanager, and Emerald Toucanet. Dinner. Overnight stay. meals: - / L / D day 2 | El Dorado Reserve Breakfast at lodge. Early transfer to the highest part of the mountain range. There, the expert guide in birds and you will prepare for an expedition in which it will expect to observe the Parakeet of Santa Marta (in critical danger of extinction), Whitestart of yellow crown, Curruca de Santa Marta, Santa Marta’s Bush Tyrant, Brown Loin Tapaculo, Rusty-headed Spine Tail and a divided race of Antpitta rufo. Return to Lodge to enjoy a dinner. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D

BIRDWATCHING IN COLOMBIA

day 3 | El Dorado Reserve Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta - Santa Marta Breakfast at lodge. Desayuno en el Lodge. You will make a tour (ina 4x4 Jeep) through the mountains of the Reserve and the road that leads to Tayrona. On the way, you may stop along the way to look for birds that you have not been seen as Puffbird with reddish throat, bareeyed Pigeon and bicolor Conebill. Return to Santa Marta and connect with other destinations. meals: B / - / NOTES: From the highest elevations of the Reserve, you will see the Parakeet of Santa Marta, Whitestart with yellow crown, Warbler of Santa Marta, Bush Tyrant of Santa Marta, Tapaculo de loin brown, Tailbone with oxidized head and a divided race of Antpitta rufo. From the intermediate levels you may see the white-tailed Starfrontlet, thorn-tailed thorn tail and black-cheeked tanager and Santa Marta Antpitta; and at the lowest levels you will observe the white warbler, Santa Marta Tapaculo, Santa Marta Woodstar, Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner, among others. It is recommended to bring camera and binoculars.

excursions

BOGOTÁ FULL DAY BIRDWATCHING IN CHINGAZA NATIONAL PARK This adventure is designed for bird lovers and observers who enjoy seeing different and beautiful landscapes. The variety of landscapes will allow discovering unique birds (some endangered), according to the ecosystem. The experience begins early morning with a transfer of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from your hotel in Bogotá to the entrance of the Chingaza Natural Park. Located in the eastern Andes, the Chingaza Natural Park is a natural and cultural treasure of northeastern of Bogotá with an altitude of 800 to 4,020 m.a.m.s.l. The magic of its mountains keeps secrets and thoughts of the Muiscas and the Guayupes, indigenous peoples who inhabited this territory, as well as the farming communities that inhabited the area less than 40 years ago. Currently, it is a paradise for Andean fauna and flora. In this paramo full of small trees you will admire the natural wealth and you may bird watching with the guide’s help such as Rufous browed conebill, Silvery throated spinetail, the skulking Pale bellied tapaculo. The white –faced form of Golden fronted Whitestart, Black chested, Buff breasted, and Scarlet bellied mountain tanagers, Red crested cotinga, Pale naped brush finch, rufos wren, superciliared, black eared, black headed, and oleaginous Hemispingus, and other delights such us Plushcap, Black crested warbler,white

throated tyrannulet, rufous antpitta, Glowing and the near endemic coppery bellied puffleg. Also, you may see in this place an Andean owl. When you reach one of the highest parts of the park you will observe the tyriant metaltail, Glossy and masked flowerpiercer, barred fruiteater, slaty brusfinch, white chinned thistletail, streak throated bush tyrant. The route continues to an area of wetlands called Laguna de Siecha, where you will see endemic birds endangered as Spot flanked gallinule, Andean Merida speckled teal and brown bellied swallow. Finally, the experience ends with a transfer to Bogotá, if there is time you will visits hummingbird feeders and see Sword billed hummingbirds, Green violetear, sparkling violetear, amethyst throated sunangel speckled hummingbird, long tailed sylph, black tailed trainbearer, purple backed thornbill, glowing puffleg, coppery bellied puffleg, shining sumbeam and others. Return to the hotel in Bogotá. duration: Approximately 9 - 10 hours. schedule: Starting between 5:00 and 7:00 a.m. guide: Bilingual private guide. maximum altitude: 2.700 m.a.m.s.l. NOTE: The tour is available with a minimum of two pax. It is recommended to bring camera, binoculars and winter clothes.

FULL DAY BIRDWATCHING IN TABACAL LAGOON AND ENCHANTES GARDEN This experience begins early morning with a transfer of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from your

hotel in Bogotá to the Enchanted Garden. This garden is strategically located on the banks of the Cañas River in San Francisco town, at an altitude of 1,500 m.a.m.s.l. Here, you will observe more than 27 species of hummingbirds of many colors, it will be difficult to pay attention to only one of them given the number of hummingbirds that will be in the garden. However, you will search with the guide’s help the Brown Violetear, Ruby Topaz hummingbird, y Whitebellied Woodstar, Black- throated Mango, Lazuline Sabrewing and among others. This tour continues with a transfer to the Laguna Tabacal Nature Reserve in La Vega town. This area has one of the greatest biological wealth in Colombia and its house of approximately 228 species of birds. Here you will see some almost endemic birds such as Bar-crested Antshrike, Scrub Tanager, Spectacled Parrotlet, Grey-throated Warbler and and other specialties like Ash-browed Spinetail, Plain-colored Tanager, Rosy Thrush-Tanager, Rusty- breasted Antpitta, Red-billed Scythebill, Black-headed Brush-Finch, Slate-Headed Tody- Flycatcher, Colombian Wren and Dwarf Cuckoo. Return to the hotel in Bogotá. duration: Approximately 9 hours. schedule: Starting between 5:00 and 7:00 a.m. guide: Bilingual private guide. maximum altitude: 1.500 m.a.m.s.l. NOTE: The tour is available with a minimum of two pax. It is recommended to bring camera, binoculars and winter clothes. The order of activities may change according to customer preferences and weather conditions.

CARTAGENA

C O L I B R Í , AMAZILIA ZTACATL

S A N T A M A R T A T O U C A N E T , AULACORHYNCHUS LAUTUS

FULL DAY BIRDWATCHING IN CIENAGA DE LA VIRGEN AND BOTANICAL GARDEN Early morning 20-minute transfer from your hotel in Cartagena to “La Boquilla” a small fishing village near Cartagena. Once in La Boquilla you will be take a canoe trip through the mangrove ecosystem which is one of the most remarkable natural environments around Cartagena due to its rich fauna and diversity of vegetation, and where you will see waterfowl, marine and shorebirds. The tour continues to the Botanical Garden of Cartagena “Guillermo Piñeres”, the place that houses a collection of more than 300 species of plants from the Colombian Caribbean and also includes one of the few virgin native forests of the region with 253 species of birds. There, you will admire the natural wealth the park has and you may birdwatching with the guide’s help. Then, you will have time for lunch at the restaurants or cafeteria inside the Botanic Garden. After lunch, the experience ends with a second guided tour of the Garden to learn about the plant collections, the native forest and observe more birds. Return to the hotel in Cartagena. duration: Approximately 9 hours. schedule: 6:00 a.m. guide: Bilingual private guide. NOTES: The tour is available with a minimum of two pax. It is recommended to bring camera and binoculars.

colombian journeys NATURE & ARCHAEOLOGY

EXPERIENCES cartagena

HALF DAY STREET FOOD Cartagena’s vibrant historic center hosts a huge a variety of cuisines, combining Spanish flavours with African influences brought across by the slaves and migrants from the 19th century. Locals have taken over this culinary tradition and culinary artisans are found throughout the streets of Cartagena. During this walking tour, there will be 10 different stops in the historic center. In addition, you will learn about Cartagena’s traditional food by tasting 15 different types of dish, all prepared by local cooks in different places along the streets. You will also have the possibility to prepare a selection of typical food in a class given by local women. duration: 3 - 4 hours. schedule: To be confirmed in the afternoon. distance: 1.5 km with 10 stops. RECOMMENDATIONS: Have a light lunch.

HALF DAY GABRIEL GARCÍA MÁRQUEZ LITERARY MENU Within the walls of Cartagena, discover centuries of history, culture and flavours stirred by the fusion of Spanish, African slaves and migrants from the 19th century. Traditional food inspired one of the most important writers in Colombia and literature Nobel winner prize, Gabriel García Márquez mostly known for his book One Hundred Years of Solitude. During this 3-4 hours walking tour visit 13 favourite places beloved to Colombia’s most famous writer. In 9 different stops, taste traditional Caribbean food referenced in the literary works by “Gabo”. Listen to the stories of the people who knew him and his work, while you taste a variety of traditional dishes. End your culinary adventure in the 17th century building that was the setting for the story of impossible love of Mary Servant of All Angels and Father Cayetano Delaura. duration: 3 - 4 hours. schedule:To be confirmed in the afternoon. distance: 1 km with 9 stops. RECOMMENDATIONS: Take a light lunch.

FULL DAY MOMPOX BY AIR In the morning, departure from Cartagena in a private charter flight to Mompox. After 45 minutes, arrival in Mompox and meet with a local guide to go on a full day visit in Mompox and the surrounding area. The visit will start in moto-taxi, a locally made motorcycle and cart hybrid that fits 3 to 4 people, and travel along these antiquated streets visiting the main sights of this town. It will be possible to appreciate and study the colonial architecture, unique due to its blend of mudéjar and baroque styles.

EXPERIENCES

The Calle Real del Medio stands out with its whitewashed walls and stately homes behind imposing wooden doors with latches and knockers all of varying styles and the finely carved wooden balconies that spill over with the flowering bougain-villea. The scenic Calle de la Albarrada runs alongside the river. It is recommended that you visit the six colonial churches in town, the most striking of which is the Santa Barbara Church in front of a plaza by the same name and beside the river. Constructed in 1630 the church is contrasting with its yellow and white paintwork and is unique in Colombia in that it has an octagonal Moorish and baroque bell-tower with balconies at the top. The San Agustin Church houses the ornate golden Santo Sepulcro which is carried through the streets on the shoulders of the Nazarene Pilgrims during the Holly Week processions. The other churches are the San Francisco, the Santo Domingo, the San Juan del Dios and La Concepción. Continue on to the Central Cemetery which is perhaps the most interesting and atmospheric place to visit. Here it becomes clear that the old tales from Mompox are still very much alive. The white tombs are lined up one above the other and form walls of memories around a central chapel. Strolling here in the hours of dusk pass locals seated calmly in front of their homes enjoying the breeze in their rocking chairs. Then, as if frozen in time, visit the artistry of the filigree workshops and observe how craftsmen make such intricate jewellery from threads of silver and gold, a tradition in Mompox that is passed down from generation to generation and is world famous. After a traditional lunch, go on a 5 minute transfer by moto taxi to the boat launch. Embark a wooden boat with an outboard motor and head off to the Ciénega de Pijino located about 20 minutes away from Mompox. Upon arriving at the Cienega the trip continues on through these wetlands to truly appreciate the wide array of flora and fauna as well as to take a dip in the Magdalena River. Enjoy this encounter in a land so rich in bird life and on the small motorboat you get up close to exotic species such as howler monkeys, birds and iguanas all the while taking in spectacular scenery. Then, transfer to the small local airport to take your private flight to Cartagena. duration: All day. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY GALERAZAMBA AND PINK SEA This experience begins with a transfer from Cartagena to Galerazamba town. This town has become a tourist destination in the Caribbean for the reactivation of the salt mines and for having an attractive Pink Sea. Upon arrival, you will have a short tour around the city to know the most interesting places and its history. Also, you will visit the salts flats, where you can see how the sea salt is extracted in an artisanal way. Later, you will know the history

of one of the most important women in the history of Cartagena, the famous India Catalina, since this town saw her born and grow. In addition, you will visit a unique restaurant built with recycled wood extracted from the sea and enjoy a fresh lunch with local products. Finally, you will have the opportunity to rest in a wild beach in a totally private environment and optionally do kayak tour with the natives, bike tour or ecological walk. duration: Approximately 7 hours. schedule: To be arranged. It is recommended in the afternoon (2:00 p.m - 6:00 p.m.). guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTES: The pink sea may be seen in dry months (October to May).

CATAMARAN EXCURSION WITH PICNIC Departure from the Manga Nautical Club. Welcome with refreshments and fruits to start a tour of the Bay of Cartagena. During the day you will sail through the Rosario Islands and Barú. If you wish, you will make a stop in the Mantas Bay oor snorkeling. The picnic, according to the weather conditions, or at your choice, can be developed on board or on an island during the tour. Return to Cartagena to Los Pegasos pier. duration: Approximately 9 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Bilingual Hostess (ES-EN-FR). HALF DAY ART & GRAFFITI TOUR This tour gives you deeper insight towards Cartagena focused on the alternative and cultural quarter and coolest barrio: Getsemani. The stories are told with present graffiti paintings with images of tropical

scenes, palenqueras, and local flora and fauna. This neighborhood has shaken off the gritty reputation, and turned to street-art as a way of incorporating the voice of local residents and artists into the fabric and the narrative of the city streets. Graffitis transformed the neighborhood in recent years, after the first Graffiti Festival in Getsemani that took place in December 2013. Have a complete knowledge of the impressive history of Getsemani starting at the clock tower, from there, go to the street of La Sierpe (where all the murals are) and Trinidad Plaza, which has an historical, cultural and national value. Also walk on top of the

city wall. The tour ends at Puerto Duro with a cultural explanation of the bus stop and the motorbike-taxis in front of the statue India Catalina and flower park. duration: Approximately 3 hours. schedule:To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

BOGOTÁ

SALSA EXPERIENCE WITH A LOCAL HOST On this experience, visit the home of a local host who will guide you through the basic steps of Salsa Dancing while you enjoy a homemade drink. Once the basic steps are mastered you will all go out and visit two iconic venues for salseros in the city. Be prepared to dance the night away to the rhythm of Salsa! duration: 5 - 6 hours. schedule: Thursday to Saturday at 7:00 p.m. (We recommend it on Fridays and Saturdays). guide: Private bilingual guide/salsa teacher.

LOCAL FLAVORS IN CHAPINERO ALTO Chapinero appropriated his name when Don Antón Hero’s chapines became a must for fashionistas of the 19th Century, since then the neighborhood began a love story with creativity that remains in force between the streets 54 and 58 where imaginative chefs reinvent the recipes famous in each different area of Colombia. Rediscover Chapinero Alto by enjoying a visit to three different places for drinking and eating in the area. The route includes a walking tour with stops in three beautiful neighborhood houses that offer some real gastronomic magic. Between the tastings, guests will be able to enjoy the beautiful settings and architecture of the city, and will be able to interact with its inhabitants, many of them artists, young executives and starlets in search of the Colombian dream. duration: 3 - 4 hours. schedule: Monday to Saturday at 12: 00 p.m (lunch) or 6:00 p.m. (dinner). guide: Private from 6 people.

KAYAK CITY TOUR With this tour you will experience Cartagena from a different point of view, visiting sights such as the Clock Tower, the Pegasus Pier, the Virgin of the Bay and the Roman Bridge. You will navigate through the San Lazaro lagoon, where you will find mangroves

MOLECULAR COFFEE TASTING CAFÉ SAN ALBERTO Take part in an innovative molecular coffee tasting, guided by a professional barista and coffee ambassador of the “Hacienda San Alberto” coffee farm, which produces one of the most internationally awarded Colombian coffees. The activity begins with a brief introduction on the history of coffee, the regions, the main varieties and some characteristics of the product. The objective of the tasting is to leave behind the traditional ritual of professional tastings and learn to appreciate coffee with the senses of smell and taste in another way. During this tasting, you can compare the aromas and flavors in a cup of

that extend along the only part of the walls that is until today located directly by the water. You will reach the island of birds, a mangrove island inhabited by countless birds that you can observe, always sailing through the Caribbean Sea aboard a kayak in which you discover a face unknown to many in the city. Paddling level: Basic. Approximate travel: 12 Kilometers. duration: Approximately 3 - 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

3 different varieties of coffee, then you will experience these flavors tasting the ‘crystals’ (coffee jelly) that highlight the acidity of the coffee. At the end, the barista will throw a few drops of coffee on a solution that turns them into pearls, thus highlighting citrus flavors and toasty notes. duration: Approximately 2 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY GASTRONOMIC TOUR Transfer to the traditional bakery “La Florida” to enjoy a typical breakfast of the Andean region. Afterwards, the tour begins for the seventh street in the center of the city where vendors, singers and artists come together to form a kind of street fair. Through the tour, the history will be explained, and there will be some stops to delight the palate with the typical food of the capital. Then, transfer to the Paloquemao market, one of the largest and oldest in Bogotá, where the agronomic wealth is reunited with the combination of smells, colors and flavors among fruits, vegetables, fish and flowers characteristic of Colombia meet. Back to the hotel. duration: 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged.

colombian journeys EXPERIENCES

guide: Private bilingual guide. includes: Meals in the different gastronomic points. FULL DAY SUMAPAZ PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR Your guide and photography expert for this tour is Ignas Karvelis who hails originally from Lithuania, but who has lived in Colombia since 2016. Originally a professional in Risk and Security Management, over time Karvelis became interested in photography. Karvelis mostly photographs landscapes and scenes from the city life and loves to travel around

MEDELLíN HALF DAY “LA MIEL” ECO-HIKE EXPERIENCE The city of Medellín is surrounded by green hills and easily you can experience the Andean nature a few minutes ride away from the city. Just 45 minutes from the city, in Envigado, this activity begins with an eco-trail that will take you to “La Miel” waterfall. The hike takes about 90 minutes following a small river to reach this waterfall (20 m) through the dense Andean cloud forest. During the journey, you will cross the river several times and at the end you can bathe in the waterfall if desired. Enjoy this natural activity,

Colombia discovering the hidden corners of his adopted country. Your destination of Sumapaz is the world’s largest paramo, a tropical alpine climate zone that is mainly found in the Andes and is famous for breathtaking landscapes. Sumapaz is located a couple of hours away from Bogotá and is home to mist-covered peaks, pristine lakes, exotic plants and protected animal species and this is where you will go to capture some of the breathtaking scenery. This is a full day tour and it is considered to be of advanced difficulty since you will be expected to

hike for roughly 4 hours at altitudes of 3,200-3,800 meters above sea level in humid and windy weather conditions. Although it is a demanding excursion, the unique landscape of the Andean mountains permits participants to capture this impressive landscape in photographs with the help of an expert photographer. duration: 8 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Ignas Karvelis (bilingual).

admiring the Andean flora and fauna offered by the nature reserve “La Miel”. duration: 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

about safety and first aid and then rafting begins for 2 hours through the valley (medium difficulty level). Then you can rest on the river bank where there will be a picnic and space to swim, relax and continue the rafting tour through canyons where you will appreciate a variety of birds and landscapes. When reaching the Cauca River you can go out and enjoy a cold drink and snacks. Return to Medellín. duration: 9 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide.

NOTE: The hike has a medium-low level of difficulty and we recommend having good physical condition since some rocks must be climbed in a part of the route.

RAFTING TOUR IN SAMANA Transfer of approximately 1:30 hours from Medellín to Santa Bárbara. In the place, there will be a talk

COFFEE REGION HALF DAY BASKET WEAVING WORKSHOP Transfer to the traditional town of Filandia to enjoy a tour of its picturesque colonial houses, the Plaza de Bolivar and the craft workshops, especially the basket weaving workshop where you will try your hand at traditional basket weaving. This experience is led by a professional basket maker who will teach you how to weave with bejucos, the tropical plants with long and thin stems and which are the baskets used by coffee pickers. Then you will have a traditional gastronomic tasting. Transfer to Quindio’s viewpoint where you can rest your eyes and gaze over the beautiful landscapes of the coffee region. At the agreed time, return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 4 hours from Armenia, 5 hours from Pereira and 6 hours from Manizales. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY COLOMBIAN FRUITS TASTING For fruit lovers, this is a very healthy and exciting experience on which you will try an amazing variety of typical fruits from all over Colombia. This experience takes place in the beautiful courtyard of the Hotel Sazagua in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region. Colombia is known for its great variety of fruit due to the country’s enviable range of climates. During this experience, you will try typical fruits, fruits with strange shapes, colours and flavours which will surely surprise you. duration: Approximately 2 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

EXPERIENCES

FULL DAY HIKE LA CARBONERA ‘’WAX PALM EMPIRE’’ After breakfast, leave Salento and start a journey of 23 kilometers in 4x4 along the old road that connects Salento with Ibagué and Bogotá. It is now a gravel road used by mountain bikers and farmers in the area. The landscape offers one of the most beautiful views of the Cordillera Central and Los Nevados National Park. As the trip continues to 3.600m, stop to enjoy the view of the Paramillo of the Quindío (4.750m) and then take a short trip to an indigenous cemetery in the forest.

Shortly after, the valley shows an impressive Wax Palm Forest, enjoy the view while you take a break in La Carbonera farm, which is a hummingbird’s reserve where you will try a typical local drink Agua de panela (sugarcane-water) with cheese. Then begin a 19-km trek back to Salento on the eastern side of the mountain, along some open paths and through the forest. On the way, stop at a farm located on a hill with breathtaking views of the mountains and Quindío’s Department, to enjoy a

picnic box lunch. Return to Salento at 5:00 p.m. and transfer to the hotel. duration: 9:30 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Bilingual guide.

HALF DAY TRADITIONAL FOOD TOUR AND LUNCH In Hacienda Santa Clara hotel, located in the municipality of Santa Rosa de Cabal, you will have an authentic gastronomic experience with an interactive cooking class, that transmits the grandmother’s secrets of the typical and traditional sancocho on wood fire. Transfer to the hotel and welcome

SANTA MARTA FULL DAY CULTURAL EXPERIENCE IN KATANZAMA INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY From Santa Marta transfer through the coastal road to Perico Aguao town (70 km, 1:30 hours). Welcome by a community guide and after a brief talk, start a 2.5 km hike (approximately 45 minutes) through the humid tropical forest until you reach Katanzama indigenous community, located in a magical place on the shores of the sea. With the company of the indigenous community leader you will have a tour around the houses and community rooms, while

by a specialized chef. Then transfer to the town’s local market, which is known locally as the “Village Gallery”. This place is still preserved in time, both in its distribution and its tradition. Tour around the market, where you will have the opportunity to talk with an agricultural products seller and taste different seasonal fruits. With the chef assistance, you will buy the ingredients for cooking the dish and learn the popular slang of the local market. Finally, visit the “yerbatero”, person recognized by the people for his homeopathic knowledge passed down from generation to generation by his indigenous ancestors and who will tell you about the healing properties of many varieties of plants existing in the region. At the end, transfer back to the hotel to light the wood fire, then start cooking the main dish, assisted all time by local cooks. You will also learn how to prepare the typical arepas, and taste it together with the traditional chorizo santarrosano, flagship product of this region. Salad and juice preparation with organic products produced in the Hacienda´s garden. Enjoy your lunch. Back to the hotel. duration: Approximately 4 - 5 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY TROUT AND TRAILS Follow Pijao’s rivers on a mountain bicycle or in a Willys Jeep to a trout farm to enjoy an afternoon of food and leisure surrounded by stunning countryside. Grab a fishing rod and spend the afternoon at a trout farm, eating fresh-caught fish and enjoying Pijao’s crystal rivers and green mountains. On the farm, the trout live in tanks fed by fresh mountain water, and they eat bananas and guavas. With a bamboo rod, you can lure the trout, including the fish that will be prepared and cooked for you that same afternoon. After lunch you have the afternoon to explore the farm, relax in the hammocks, fish some more, or play rana, a traditional Colombian lawn game. Before the sun begins to set, we’ll take the bikes and head back to Pijao. duration: 6 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

HOT AIR BALLOONING IN THE COFFEE REGION Start your tour early in the morning, (at approx. 5:30 a.m.) as it is during this time of the day that offers the most appropriate weather conditions for the flight. Participate in the process of inflating the balloon which takes around 30 min to complete and at the same time taste a hot cup of coffee with typical pastries from the region. Then, start your journey giving you an opportunity to appreciate from above the beautiful landscape of the Colombia Coffee Region. The flight takes approximately 45 min. The balloon can be controlled in the process of ascending and descending, however since the balloon does not have a steering wheel it is the wind that dictates the direction of the flight, hence no flight and landing spot are the same, making the flight even more fascinating. The balloon driver is in constant communication with the land support team that is following closely by and that will pick up the passengers once the balloon has landed. Passengers will receive a flight certificate of the experience and the tour will finish at approximately 11:00 a.m. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: 6:00 a.m. guide: Spanish Speaking driver during the transfer and during the flight. CAPACITY: Currently there is 1 balloon available with capacity for 3 pax + pilot. Please advise if passengers weigh more than 80 Kg. NOTES: services might be shared with other passengers if client does not buy the 3 available places. If weather conditions are not suitable to do the flight it is possible to reschedule the activity for a different day or to have a reimbursement for the full amount. OPTIONAL: Bilingual guide assistance during the flight. For groups of 4 to 6 passengers it is possible to divide the group into two and to have a flight for half an hour each. For groups above 6 passengers it is possible to do a stationary flight, which means that the balloon is attached to the ground by means of a cord and flies to a high of 10 meters lifting the passengers in small groups at a time.

you learn about the Arhuacos cooking and customs. Then you will go into the plantations to learn about their crops and work materials. Sit around a tree, a sacred space where you will have the opportunity to speak to the “Mamo”, spiritual leader of the community. After briefly visiting the school, enjoy a picnic by the sea. If desired, you can learn to weave traditional mochilas. To end the experience, you will plant an endemic tree of the region. Back to Santa Marta. duration: Approximately 7 - 8 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide.

colombian journeys EXPERIENCES

TOURS EXPErts BY

BOGOTÁ FULL DAY ART IN BOGOTÁ Your host, Sandra Montenegro is the founder and director of Montenegro Art Projects (MAP), an art advising and consulting company that develops art projects internationally. Montenegro completed her studies in contemporary art at Sotheby´s Institute of Art in New York City and holds a Master of Arts in Communication and a Bachelor of Arts in International and Latin American Studies from the University of Miami, Florida. Based in Bogotá, MAP´s projects have been presented in cities such as Miami, Havana and Bogotá. Montenegro´s tours are designed to provide you with an in-depth exploration of the vibrant art scene in Bogotá. These visits incorporate trips to galleries, museums, and artists’ studios. In addition, they include a special guest for lunch or tea. In the places visited, the tour participants are welcomed in by local art experts thus creating a memorable experience. Tours can also be customized depending on your interests and may be for a full day or for multiple days. Full-day tours can be developed in the following areas of the city: La Macarena and the downtown area, the North area or in the San Felipe neighbourhood. duration: Seven to 8 hours. schedule: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. guide: Sandra Montenegro (bilingual). Reservations in advance. restrictions: MAMBO Museum closed on Mondays.

CARTAGENA MEETING WITH GABRIEL GARCIA MARQUEZ’S BROTHER Gabriel García Márquez (1927-2014), affectionately known as Gabo, is one of the most important authors of the 20th century. In 1982, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his novel One Hundred Years of Solitude. When he died in April 2014, the President of Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos, described him as the “greatest Colombian that has ever lived”. Gabriel García Márquez invented a literary style that is called magic realism and many of his novels are set in Cartagena. You will have the chance to talk with Jaime García Marquez, the older brother of Gabo. It is a talk about the life and work of the GGM. It is recommended that clients know at least one of their books. It is a talk that can be held in a café, in a private house or in the lounge of a hotel. duration: Approximately 2 hours. schedule: Flexible. guide: Bilingual private guide

TOURS BY EXPERTS

COLOMBIAN MUSIC INMERSION Colombia is one of the richest countries in Latin America in terms of different musical rhythms. On this tour, Pedro Crump, a composer and pianist from Bogotá, will open you the doors to his house and his studio, where you will learn a lot of Colombian music. He will lead you through a selection of multiple songs and genders, while using and playing different instruments, which will guide you through our rich musical heritage. duration: Approximately 2 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private - Bilingual maximum capacity: 9 people. HALF DAY ART IN BOGOTÁ - ARTISTS WORKSHOPS Federico Ruiz is an Art Dealer and specialist with more than 13 years experience in Colombian modern and contemporary art market. He represents a portfolio of 12 artists and is well established as one of the most solid and respected actors of the field. He has clients and collectors in New York, Tokyo, Brazzaville, Miami, Caracas, Buenos Aires and Bogotá. The tour includes visits art spaces in Bogotá selected by Ruiz; 3 galleries (modern and/or contemporary art) or 3 artist’s ateliers. Visit 3 artists in their own workshops, in order to meet and share their individual creative worlds. The offer of artists in Bogotá is one of the most diverse in Latin America, graduating annually more than 2,000

VIP TOUR WITH AN ART EXPERT With an art expert (Raquel Gil, Eladio Gil’s daughter / Rosana Lombana, art specialist and daughter of the artist Lombana who made the Pegasus and Miguel Cervantes statues in Cartagena, among others), we will visit the modern Museum of Arts of Cartagena, as well as different art galleries, where you will have the possibility to acquire artwork. Moreover, we can visit a private museum house in Manga (about 15 minutes from the centre). The high society family of famous sculptor Eladio Gil Zambrano is looking forward to showing you their house full of paintings and sculptures. Eladio Gil Zambrano was the sculptor of the famous statue India de Catalina. He also designed the front decoration of the national sailboat Gloria of the Colombian navy. His daughter Raquel and his wife Fini are glad to show you their extraordinary house and tell you about their lives. Optionally, you can make your own piece of art together with the family in a workshop. duration: Approximately 5 hours. schedule: Flexible. guide: Bilingual private guide.

pedro crumb

new artists. Federico chooses those that are most interesting because of their large and diverse national and international experience. Alejandro Sánchez, Aníbal Gomescasseres, Boris Pérez, Camilo Pinto, Carlos Alarcón, Míler Lagos, Felipe Ruiz, Goitia, Juan José García, Leonardo Pineda, Luis Fernando Bohórquez, Mario Arroyave, Rodrigo Echeverri, Walbert Perez are some of which are among them. goal: To visit 3 artist workshops in Bogotá city accompanied by Federico Ruiz. duration: 4 hours. schedule: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. guide: Federico Ruiz (bilingual). NOTES: The tour can be interspersed between galleries and workshops or first one and then other, depending on the artist’s agendas and city traffic.

TOUR ABOUT LITERATURE AND HISTORY WITH THE POET PEDRO BLAS Together with the famous poet Pedro Blas, we will discover the city centre and the Getsemaní neighbourhood. We will focus on the history of the city, as well as its literature and poetry. Pedro Blas was born in 1949 in the Getsemaní neighbourhood, which had been an example of social fight for centuries. He was awarded the national Poetry Prize Jorge Artel for his book Rumbos in 1993. Discover Cartagena’s’ poetry and literature and, above all, get to know Pedro Blas, an extraordinary person. duration: Approximately 2 hours. schedule: Flexible. guide: Bilingual private guide.

SOCIAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS

BOGOTÁ HALF DAY EGIPTO NEIGHBORHOOD EXPERIENCE Learn about the impressive history of a group of locals from the Egipto neighborhood in Bogotá. Deciding to leave their past behind they started showing tourists their streets filled with artwork that tells the neighborhood’s history. Tourism has formed a real alternative for their personal and professional development and opened the doors for a brighter future. Leave in the morning to El Chorro de Quevedo in the city center where you will meet one of the project leaders to start a walk through the colorful streets of La Candelaria until you reach Nuestra Señora de Egipto, the church located at the entrance of Barrio Egipto. Visit the Calle Real or Royal Street, with its cobblestoned streets and colorful colonial houses. Then stop at El Cuadrado, a central point that in the past was a strategic place for control over the territory for the gangs and today it is painted with pictures that tell you about the history and new values of the people. Walking uphill through the colorful streets of the neighborhood, you will notice how much the area has changed and transformed into a place of hope, peace, and culture. Your guide will let you about the meanings and stories behind the painted murals. Reach the hills where the modest houses of the local guides and their families are and see a football field that was constructed for the children of the district thanks to this transformation project. Return to the hotel.

duration: 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide and local guide. FULL DAY TOUR WEAVING PEACE In 2016, the Peace Agreement in Colombia was signed, which gave an end to a more than 50-year old conflict. To understand the present, heal the wounds from the past, and build a solid peace fabric for the future, it is necessary to understand the complexity of its history and the contradictions that had been part of the country. This tour will make you understand key moments of Colombia’s history and then focus on its rebirth and future, through the voice and example of true peace weavers who are building new paths of hope and memory for the country. During the day you will have different stops at key points in the city that will guide you through this process. The first stop will be at Parque Nacional, where a human-scaled country map can be found. Here you will understand the Colombian geography and the social and political struggles that have labeled its history. Continue to the Café Wasikamas, in the historical center, where an indigenous community serves and sell the price-winner special coffee that they grow in their indigenous reserve in the mountains of southern Colombia. Enjoy a coffee, while the Indians tell you about why their coffee business is a symbol of what the Peace Agreement. Afterward, visit the Plaza de Bolívar, the setting of La Toma del Palacio de Justicia, one of the most memorable episodes of violence in the country. Then continue walking a few blocks north to the corner where the charismatic political leader Jorge

Eliécer Gaitán was murdered in 1948. The next stop is at Distrito Chocolate, a coffee shop/chocolate-shop, where you will be explained how cocoa has become the main resource for thousands of peasant families that have left coca illegal farming behind. Afterwards, you will have the option to visit one of the following places of relevance within the context of the tour (choose only one): Fragmentos: a monument or public memorial of the Colombian plastic artist Doris Salcedo that is born from the weapons that the Farc laid down and made with the collaboration of women victims of the armed conflict. More than an artistic work, it is a space that invites an aesthetic reflection on what has happened in Colombia. In this space there is a talk about central issues, for example, how was the disarmament of the Farc, what role did the victims play and how does the judicial system work for ex-combatants. Centro de Memoria, Paz y Reconciliación: is a space made to rebuild the country’s memory and honor the people that suffered the most during the conflict. He you will observe the work made day by day by the women of the Costurero de la Memoria, weaving in cloth their stories, dreams, and sufferings as a way to heal the wounds of the past and create visions for the future. Museo Nacional de Colombia: vist the Memoria y Nación exhibit and observe the prize-winning textiles of the Tejedoras de Mampuján, a group of afro women from the Caribbean who received the National Peace Prize and who started the tradition of creating woven tales of Colombia’s armed conflict victims. For last, you will have lunch at Salvo Patria, a restaurant with a native-food rescue philosophy and you will have the chance to talk with the chef about how the restaurant builds value chains with small producers to reactivate the rural areas and improve their inhabitants’ living conditions. duration: 7 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Expert private bilingual guide. NOTE: Museo Nacional and Fragmentos are closed on Mondays. Centro de Memoria Histórica is closed on Weekends. The tour is not available on Sundays. We offer a shorter version of this tour (3 or 4 hours) including insider access with expert, entrances fees, visit to Café Wasikamas,

Distrito Chocolate and to one of the places to choose. There may be changes in the itinerary due to closures, weather conditions and other external factors. These changes will be notified in advance.

colombian journeys SOCIAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS

MEDELLÍN HALF DAY COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE IN MORAVIA Moravia is today one of the benchmarks for social and urban transformation in Medellín. It densely populated neighborhood, due to the number of displaced people left by the armed conflict in the country, was once the municipal garbage dump of the city and where residents used to live in extreme poverty. Currently, Moravia has changed, it generated an intervention that improved public health and it is articulating the neighborhood to the dynamics of the city. Environments were embellished, sustainability projects were developed, and cooperatives were formalized. The experience begins with a tour in the neighborhood to see the social transformation created by the community itself. Also, the streets of the neighborhood will be explored to know the history getting to the old garbage hill transformed into a beautiful garden. At the end, you will get to know the community projects that are running in here. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. HALF DAY VISIT A COMMUNITY PROJECT AND COOKING CLASS Today, you have the incredible opportunity to visit Comuna 9 in Medellín, which is one of the success stories in social innovation in Colombia´s second city and where there is a community social transformation project in which you can participate for a day. Here, to the East of Medellín’s center, the project is aimed at training individuals from humble backgrounds in the skills of cooking and entrepreneurship with healthy foods offered at affordable prices and applying techniques and recipes from all over the world. Your visit will start with an introduction and explanation of the social transformation which has taken place in Comuna 9 and you will see the headquarters of this project before being walked through public renovation projects such as murals, educational and recreational spaces and other elements which have been included which have significantly improved the lives of those resident here. In addition to the aforementioned activities, you will be able to interact with the community, visit the local business of a project participant to see the positive impact it has had on his life and his family. Afterwards, you will have a cooking class on an outdoor patio where you can prepare and enjoy a Colombian dish or a gourmet dish designed by students of the social project. Finally, enjoy a ride on the tram and on the new cable car. One cannot over emphasize the positive change to have taken place here with the addition of this transport infrastructure for the local population as it has improved their quality of life and their accessibility to the rest of the city. All funds generated on this tour are reinvested in the community project and go towards the subsidizing of training, the purchase of materials and equipment for low-income participants and maintenance of the training center.

duration: Approximately 6 hours. schedule: To be coordinated in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. FULL DAY COCOA WORKSHOP “ARTISANAL CHOCOLATE” This unique journey takes you to the mountains of eastern Antioquia. The valley of San Francisco with its pristine rivers and sub-tropical climate, has the perfect conditions for growing cacao. In this region affected by the internal armed conflict some years ago, the United Nations started a cocoa production project that allows local farmers to have a sustainable income and an encouraging future. Visit a community project to learn more about cocoa, its plantations and the process of making handmade chocolate. The cooperative is led by a group of women in the region and combines sustainable agriculture and the conservation of endemic tropical forests in the region. Here you can support the community project, learn to protect a fragile ecosystem, and enjoy the clear waters of the Pailania Waterfall. duration: Approximately 10 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: The tour is not recommended for people with limited physical ability as the hike down to the river is steep.

FULL DAY MEDELLÍN’S SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION A ND CASA DE LA MEMORIA Full day visit to Medellín, visiting the areas wherein the social transformation that has shaped this beautiful city has been most profound. The tour allows participants to learn the history of a city that has been truly transformed since the 1980´s, when it was known to be one of most dangerous cities in the world as a result of drug-trafficking.

SOCIAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS

Enjoy an exciting tour through the history and present of Medellín and learn more about the transformation of this fascinating metropolis. 20 years ago, Medellín was one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Back in the early 90s, when the hunt for Pablo Escobar took place, the head of Medellín’s drug cartel was at its peak. Thus, the reign of “El Patrón” came to its end. Until the turn of the millennium the struggles about Escobar’s successor continued, but since 2002 Medellín began to change. Intelligent local politicians started to invest heavily in infrastructure and public education. Today the “City of Eternal Spring” is one of the most innovative metropolises in the world. Visit the barrio San Javier, which used to be one of the most unsafe suburbs of Medellín Located some 7km from the city centre, it is a clear example of the social transformation that has taken place in the last few years. Arrive here by the metrocable car that joins the north-east area with the city centre, which has been life changing to many of the inhabitants of Medellín. Learn more about the city’s transformation after the death of Pablo Escobar and also get to know the innovative transport-system in the poorer neighborhoods at first hand. Explore Medellín’s newest invention: the electric stairways of the district Comuna 13, discover stories about its past by visiting the most important places marked by historical events and see some graffiti that symbolizes a form of expression of the community. Here it is possible to have a beautiful view over the city from the balconies of San Javier. Then, go on to Berrio Park and the famous Plaza Botero located in the city centre, in an area that fell into decline in the 1980s and today houses 23 sculptures of the Colombian Fernando Botero, donated by this famous local artist in year 2000. Since that time, the city has undergone a social and cultural transformation around these works placed in a public space.

Continue to the museum “Casa de la Memoria”, an investigation centre of the urban conflict of the last decades and offers exclusive insights into the controversial city’s history. Unlike other memory museums in the world, concerned with finding ways to heal the relationship of a country about its past (war or dictatorship), the “Casa de la Memoria” is concerned with the memory of a conflict still alive.

It is nowadays a place of hope and a landmark of social transformation in Medellín. Afterwards take the new cable car up to “La Sierra”, a neighbourhood almost exclusively known for gang violence just a few years ago. Key to the city’s progress have been a number of urban planning and public transport initiatives combined with social transformation projects. These projects aim to reduce crime and fight

COFFEE REGION HALF DAY COFFEE BETWEEN CONFLICT AND PEACE For a true understanding of the complexities of the long-running Colombian conflict you will travel to the coffee-growing town of Génova nestled in the mountains of the Central Cordillera. Here, you will receive a full explanation of the origins of the armed

CARTAGENA VISIT OF THE FUNDATION PESCADOR DE LETRAS (LA BOQUILLA) The foundation “Pescador de Letras” is a non-profit organization, founded in the year 2017. Its purpose is to provide quality education to the children of LA BOQUILLA, which is an angler’s village outside of the City of Cartagena. The two main objectives are education and alimentation of the children. Additional to regular education the foundation tries to develop different skills of the children, which allow them, to improve their quality of life, their physical and intellectual development, and the conditions in which they relate to their environment, as well as the way to face life after school. As they have observed certain difficulties in the learning process because the children felt hungry, a feeding plan was developed, which covers most of their daily alimentation needs. The children are

poverty by reconnecting its inhabitants, the creation of public parks and libraries to improve education and local recreation. Return to the hotel. duration: Approximately 8 hours. schedule: To be arranged in the morning. guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: Casa de la Memoria Museum is closed on Mondays.

conflict and will visit places of symbolic importance and talk to locals who will be able to tell you, in their own words of their experiences and what happened here. This excursion will provide you with an overview to understand the thorny post-conflict period and the importance of the peace process currently underway in Colombia. duration: 6 hours. schedule: 8:00 a.m. guide: Private bilingual guide. between 3 and 12 years and study between the preschool and elementary courses. Now there are 126 children assisting seven courses, which will be organized in five classrooms. The work team consists of 11 people. duration: 3 ½ hours. schedule: To be confirmed . guide: Private bilingual guide. NOTE: Visitor can donate school supplies (Notebooks, colours, scissors, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, rulers) and snacks for sharing with the children.

HALF DAY COCONUT WORKSHOP Craft your own souvenir and support a good purpose. Coconuts are not only used for drinks but also to create accessories or decoration. The project DAMARTES (Damas y Madres del Arte - ‘Women and Mothers of Art’) began with the name Madres Cabeza de Familia y sus Cocos (‘Mothers - head of the family and their coconuts’) and is an association composed of seven women. In 2008, they took part in a craft class sponsored by the foundation ProBoquilla. Nowadays, they produce jewelry, containers, vases, belts and accessories and are the first women of La Boquilla that purchase their own income. Producing an object out of a coconut, requires above all enthusiasm and patience. The life of the DAMARTES is very impressive. All of them are mothers and most of them already grandmothers with interesting life stories that they like to share with you. The association is a working group of great women that can craft amazing things out of simple objects. Head to La Boquilla, where the ladies will invite you to the Coconut Workshop. Every participant can make his own souvenir out of coconut. It is possible to craft bracelets, keychains, earrings or necklaces. The workshop will take place in a nice rustic restaurant right on the beach of La Boquilla. duration: Approximately 4 hours. schedule: To be arranged. guide: Private bilingual guide.

colombian journeys SOCIAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS

tour circuits 10 days - 9 nights

1 COLOMBIA AND PANAMÁ: BOGOTÁ | CARTAGENA | VILLA DE LEYA | CARTAGENA | PANAMÁ CITY day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artifacts such as textiles and artwork that has been collected over four centuries. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Justice Palace, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Liévano Building, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros, so called to remember those who participated in one of the first movements towards independence from Spain at the end of the XVII Century. The visit continues with the Botero Museum, a colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Gold Museum which has a

TOUR CIRCUITS

permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinú, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Gold Museum is considered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display and it belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). Free afternoon for individual activities (we recommend visiting the city’s various museums). Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

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villa de leyva zipaquirá bogotá

COLOMBIA

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day 4 | Villa de Leyva - Bogotá Cartagena After breakfast, return to Bogotá. On the way, take a break in the Saint Ecce Homo Monastery. Founded by the Dominicans in 1620, this was an important point of evangelization in a region populated by infidel Indigenous communities. Arrival at El Dorado Airport in Bogotá for departure flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival, transfer and check in the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 5 | Cartagena - Half Day Panoramic City Tour Start with a panoramic view of the city from La Popa Monastery and Church. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140 m.a.m.s.l. from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the

city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and know how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convert and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, follow to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center to display local handcrafts. Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 6 | Cartagena Free day. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 7 | Cartagena - Panamá City Breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight to Panama City. Arrival to Panama City. Pick up at the airport by a bilingual guide who will help you with the transfer to the Hotel and will

also provide important information regarding the rest of the trip. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | Panamá City - Half Day Miraflores Locks and Panama View After breakfast, visit to the Panama Canal, a magnificent work of engineering, in fact, the greatest and most expensive human feat, the one Balboa had dreamt about since 1513. After 30 and 40 minutes of route, you will reach the Visitor Center of Miraflores Locks, from which you will be able to see in detail ships moving along the canal and the way it operates. Forthwith, you will visit the Amador Causeway, one of the best panoramic views of the city. The tour continues at the neighbourhoods located at the foot of Ancón Hill, the highest point in the city, which belonged sometime to the socalled “Canal Zone” where U.S. army officers and officials lived in during the U.S. administration of the canal. Lastly, there will be a brief stop for contemplating an incredible view showing on one hand the modern skyscrapers, and on the other hand its wonderful gulf. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

day 9 | Panamá City - Half Day Community Emberá Katumá After breakfast at the hotel, the tour starts with the transfer to the little pier of the Gatún River, where you will board a pirogue, a motor canoe, to arrive to the community of Emberá Katumá. During the journey you will be able to see in detail the splendid jungle and if you are lucky, its monkeys, butterflies, herons and turtles. Upon your arrival, you will be received by the Indian Chief of the community who will tell you the history of the Tribe and its cultural wealth and that of its traditions. The Emberá are native of the Darién, who in turn come from the Choco, Colombia. They live at the edge of the river in little communities of thatch-roofed palafittes named tambos, for counteracting humidity and avoiding floods. Afterwards, a typical lunch will be served to you and you will enjoy a folkloric show with traditional music and dances. meals: B / L* / -

* Light lunch based on fried fish.

day 10 | Panamá City - Departure Breakfast at the hotel and early transfer to the Tocumen international Airport of Panama City for international flight. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

8 days - 7 nights

2 Classic colombia: BOGOTÁ | COFFEE REGION | CARTAGENA day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, at one time a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has collected over four centuries. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros, so called to honour one of the earliest movements for independence from Spain towards the end of the XVII Century. The visit continues with the Museo Botero, a colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Museo del Oro which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is considered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In

TOUR CIRCUITS

2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display. Free afternoon for individual activities (we recommend visiting the city’s various museums). Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Pereira Buenavista - San Alberto Plantation and Coffee Processing - Pereira Transfer to the airport and flight to Pereira. Arrival, transfer and hotel check-in. Half day visiting the coffee plantations along the steep hills typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view the green carpet of coffee plants that spread out as far as the horizon interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers. Visit to Hacienda San Alberto one of the coffee estates typical of the region and located near the town of Buenavista Quindío. The tour begins with an introductory talk about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The route continues through the plantations, appreciating the work of the coffee pickers as well as understanding the famous humid coffee that is characteristic of Colombian coffee. Walk through the coffee plantations and learn about the production system in minute detail, including the harvest, the drying to the sun and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain Range which has been declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO and that offers the perfect climatic conditions for coffee growing. Free remainder of the afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | Pereira - Valle del Cocora & Filandia - Pereira After breakfast, leave for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the department of Quindío. This makes part of the Parque

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pereira FILANDIA

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Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm” (Ceroxylon quincense), the national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60m. Around here a great number of species of birds live, in particular some types of hummingbird and the orejíamarillo or the palm parrot (Ognorhynchus icteroti) which is endangered. Upon arrival in the valley, either hiking or on horseback (not included), head into the cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindío while walking along an ecological pathway which takes one past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshipped this tree. Then you can have a typical lunch (not included) and enjoy some free time here. In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento to

enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colorful balconies, the calle real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint. Then, transfer to the traditional village of Filandia to enjoy a city tour that includes the viewpoint, the colonial homes, the Plaza de Bolivar and the coffee shops. Here, enjoy some time soaking up the regional atmosphere and perhaps some local spirits before returning to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 5 | Pereira - Cartagena Breakfast. Transfer to Pereira airport for departure flight to Cartagena (via Bogotá). Upon arrival, transfer and hotel check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 6 | Cartagena - Half Day Panoramic City Tour Start with a panoramic view of the

city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn about how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convent and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and

owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, follow to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center to appreciate local handcraft. Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 7 | Cartagena Free day for individual activities. A full day tour to the Archipiélago del Rosario is recommended. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | Cartagena - Bogotá Breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

13 days - 12 nights

3 discover colombia: BOGOTÁ | VILLA DE LEYVA | COFFEE TRIANGLE | TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK | CARTAGENA day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, and at one time as a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has been collected over four centuries. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros named after those who participated in the XVII Century in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. The visit continues with the Museo Botero, a colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Museo del Oro which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is con-

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sidered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display. Free afternoon for individual activities (we recommend visiting the city’s various museums). Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Zipaquirá Villa de Leyva After breakfast, departure from Bogotá to the north, towards Zipaquirá. After a journey of roughly 1.15 hours reach the impressive Salt Cathedral, a true achievement of engineering. The name Zipaquirá refers to Zipa, the leader of the Muisca tribe and the overlord of these rich salt mines. The trip will begin in a tunnel that passes the fourteen Stations of the Cross and continues on to a dome. In the central nave is the main altar, above which is a cross measuring 16m in height and 10m in breadth, it is the largest cross made from salt in the world. Continue on a 2-hour trip to Villa de Leyva in the afternoon. Arrival and hotel check-in. Villa de Leyva, one of the area’s most beautiful towns, was founded in 1572 by Hernán Suárez de Villalobos who named it after Andrés Días Venero de Leyva, the first president of Nueva Granada. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | Villa de Leyva - Bogotá Pereira After breakfast, return to Bogotá. On the way, take a break in the Saint Ecce Homo Monastery. Founded by the Dominicans in 1620, this was an important point of evangelization in a region populated by infidel Indigenous communities. Arrival at El Dorado Airport in Bogotá for departure flight to Pereira. Upon arrival, transfer and check in the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

paRque nacional tayrona

santa marta

cartagena

villa de leyva pereira FILANDIA

flight

road trip

zipaquirá bogotá

day 5 | Pereira - Valle del Cocora & Filandia - Pereira After breakfast, leave for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the department of Quindío. This makes part of the Parque Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm” (Ceroxylon quincense), the national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60m. Around here a great number of species of birds live, in particular some types of hummingbird and the orejíamarillo or the palm parrot (Ognorhynchus icteroti) which is endangered. Upon arrival in the valley, either hiking or on horseback (not included), head into the cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindío while walking along an ecological pathway which takes one past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshipped this tree. Then you can have a typical lunch (not included) and enjoy some free time here. In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento to enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colorful balconies, the calle real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint. Then, transfer to the traditional village of Filandia to enjoy a city tour that includes the viewpoint, the colonial homes, the Plaza de Bolivar and the

coffee shops. Here, enjoy some time soaking up the regional atmosphere and perhaps some local spirits before returning to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 6 | Pereira - Buenavista San Alberto Plantation and Coffee Processing - Pereira After breakfast, half day visiting the coffee plantations along the steep hills typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view the green carpet of coffee plants that spread out as far as the horizon interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers Visit to Hacienda San Alberto one of the coffee estates typical of the region and located near the town of Buenavista Quindío. The tour begins with an introductory talk about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The route continues through the plantations, appreciating the work of the coffee pickers as well as understanding the famous humid coffee that is characteristic of Colombian coffee. Walk through the coffee plantations and learn about the production system in minute detail, including the harvest, the drying to the sun and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain Range which has been declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO and that offers the perfect climatic conditions for coffee growing.

Free remainder of the afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 7 | Pereira - Santa Marta Tayrona Breakfast. Transfer to Pereira airport for departure flight to Santa Marta (via Bogotá). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Tayrona and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / days 8 & 9 | Tayrona National Park Free day to relax, for beach activities or to organize excursions such as snorkeling or horseback riding. Overnight stay in the lodge. meals: B / - / day 10 | Tayrona National Park Cartagena After breakfast, 5-hour transfer to Cartagena. Arrival and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 11 | Cartagena -Half Day Panoramic City Tour Start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most

important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn about how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convent and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, follow to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center to appreciate local handcraft. Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 12 | Cartagena Free day for individual activities. A full day tour to the Archipiélago del Rosario is recommended. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 13 | Cartagena Morning transfer to Cartagena airport after breakfast. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

11 days - 10 nights

4 colombia by the sea: CARTAGENA | ROSARIO OR BARÚ ISLAND | SAN ANDRÉS ISLAND | PROVIDENCIA ISLAND day 1 | Cartagena Upon arrival at Cartagena airport on a national or international flight, transfer and hotel check-in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Cartagena Half Day Panoramic City Tour Start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convert and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, follow to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center to display local handcrafts. Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 3 | Cartagena - Rosario Islands & Barú After breakfast, transfer in a regular or private boat to the hotel of your choice on Barú or Rosario Island. After roughly a 1-hour boat trip, arrival and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | Rosario Islands & Barú Free day to relax on the beach. If you are on Barú we recommend the

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beaches of Playa Blanca, Playita de Cholón, Playa de los Muertos and Playa Bobo. On the Rosario islands, we recommend a visit the reef of the archipelago of Nuestra Señora del Rosario as well as the islands of Tesoro, Múcura and Maravilla. Enjoy snorkeling and other water sports, observation of the local flora and fauna and scuba diving amongst others things. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 5 | Rosario Islands & Barú Cartagena In the afternoon, departure by boat to Cartagena. Upon arrival at Cartagena pier, transfer to the hotel and check in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 6 | Cartagena - San Andrés Island After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for direct flight to San Andrés. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check-in. The archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina is located to the northwest of the Colombian mainland in the Caribbean and was declared a UNESCO Biosphere reserve in 2000. It is believed that the islands were first discovered by Christopher Columbus on his second journey, but they were administered by the English from 1631. This led to a period of colonisation, in particular, by people of African descent. In 1670 the infamous Welsh pirate Henry Morgan established his base on the island of Providencia and there are still some here who believe the legends that some of his treasures remain buried here. Due to the history of the archipelago the language spoken on the islands is a patois, the mixture of English and Spanish.San Andres Island is the largest island in the archipelago and is the administrative and financial centre and has drawn in tourists for several decades. It is well known for its beaches, some with pink coral in the sand, the sea of seven colours with its clear turquoise blue waters in varying tones. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

providencia

SAN ANDRÉS

islas del rosario o barú

flight

road trip boat

cartagena

day 7 | San Andrés Island Free day at your disposal to enjoy the beach and the activities available on the island such as a 10-minute boat trip out to Johnny Cay where it is able to see more than 30 different types of fish. The island has an area called “playa de cedro” which aids against the erosion of the beaches from waves and strong winds making this the refuge on the island for many sea birds. Visit the Aquarium as well. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | San Andrés Island Providencia Island Transfer to San Andrés airport for a

20-minute flight to Providencia. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and check-in. Free remainder of the day for beach activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 9 | Providencia Island Breakfast and free day for spending time on the beach or exploring other beaches on the island. It is suggested that you pay a to visit Santa Catalina Island connected to Providencia by a beautiful and brightly painted wooden bridge called the “Puente de Amor” or take a boat ride to explore the hidden bays on the island. Declared a protected biosphere by UNESCO this is

one of the most accessible and well preserved coral reefs in the world. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 10 | Providencia Island Breakfast and free day for spending time on the beach or exploring other beaches on the island. We suggest that you make the hike up to the “Peak” a 360 m high point on the island to admire fine 360-degree views of the island, the coral reefs and the multi-colour sea. Most of the freshwater found on the island is found here on this mountain. On the hike you will walk through a rainforest that is home

to many species of tropical birds. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 11 | Providencia Island San Andrés Island - Cartagena Breakfast in the hotel and transfer to the airport for flight to San Andres. meals: B / - / OPTIONAL: It is possible to include Tayrona National Park within this itinerary.

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

11 days - 10 nights

5 colombia nature: BOGOTÁ | THE AMAZON | MEDELLÍN | NUQUÍ day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has built over four centuries. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros who participated towards the end of the XVII Century in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. The visit continues with the Museo Botero, a colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Museo del Oro which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is considered as one of

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the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake ones senses to the objects on display and it belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). Free afternoon for individual activities (we recommend visiting the city’s various museums). Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Leticia Private transfer from the hotel to Eldorado Airport for flight to Leticia. Upon arrival in Leticia, transfer to the hotel and check-in. In the afternoon, approximately 2 hours walking city tour of the small city centre of Leticia, the capital of Colombian Amazonas department. The visit starts in the Museo Etnográfico del Hombre Amazónico where there is a collection of objects and utensils used by the indigenous cultures from this region. Continuing to the city’s parks and wander its streets with plenty of time to browse handicrafts shops and pick up a local brew of “chuchuhuaza”, an Amazonian aphrodisiac made from an endemic species of tree. Return to hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / D day 4 | Leticia - Calanoa After breakfast, transfer to the pier for shared boat transfer to Calanoa which takes about 30 minutes. Visit the Mocagua community, lunch and tour around the village and their painted houses. Return to Calanoa for a walking tour through the jungle and then return by canoe along Matamata stream, which has limits with the Amacayacu Natural National Park. Dinner. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 5 | Calanoa - Puerto Nariño Calanoa Depart in the morning for a trip along the Amazon River. Visit to Puerto Nariño, the second largest town in the department of Amazonas after Leticia.

MEDELLÍN

bogotá

nuquí

amacayacu national park flight

road trip boat

puerto nariño calanoa

leticia

The town is a curious mix of colonists and native people. It is considered as the cradle of the Amazon given its unequalled natural, cultural and harmonious setting. Later, travel on up the river to Tarapoto Lake where, it might be possible to see a great deal of interesting species such as the grey and pink river dolphins. Return to Calanoa and dinner. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 6 | Calanoa - Leticia - Medellín After breakfast depart to Leticia by boat. Visit Omagua Reserve to experience canopy activities within the jungle. Return to Leticia and private transport to airport for flight to Medellín (via Bogotá). Upon arrival in Medellín, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 7 | Medellín - La Miel Eco-hike The city of Medellín is surrounded by green hills and easily you can experience the Andean nature a few minutes ride away from the city. Just

45 minutes from the city, in Envigado, this activity begins with an eco-trail that will take you to “La Miel” waterfall. The hike takes about 90 minutes following a small river to reach this waterfall (20m) through the dense Andean cloud forest. During the journey, you will cross the river several times and at the end you can bathe in the waterfall if desired. Enjoy this natural activity, admiring the Andean flora and fauna offered by the nature reserve “La Miel”. Free afternoon. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | Medellín - Nuquí After breakfast, transfer to the local airport for flight to Nuquí. Reception at Nuquí Airport and transfer to the dock for an approximately 45-minute boat transfer to Ecolodge El Cantil and check-in.In the afternoon, walk to the waterfall Cascada del Amor. It is 400m from El Cantil, a stroll in the jungle, until you arrive at a paradise where crystalline waters tumble over a 4m high waterfall. Walk a few minutes

further on into the jungle to see the Mellizas Waterfall. Lastly, enjoy empty beaches near to the river. Return to the hotel and dinner. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / D Note: The flights from Medellín to Nuquí or Bahía Solano have a luggage restriction of 1 carry-on bag of 5 kg and 1 checked bag of 10 kg.

day 9 | Nuquí In the morning take a leisurely walk over level terrain for 3km admiring the pelicans and other birds found here and walk past streams that splice the beaches in order to reach the ocean. Arrive at the thermal springs and take a bathe in waters that reach a comfortable 32 ºC temperature. In the afternoon, head out for some whale watching for 2 hours all depending on where the whales are. meals: B / L / D

day 10 | Nuquí In the morning walk to Rio Terco following it into the jungle, this hike is a true adventure. Marvel as the contrasts in the vegetation and fauna become more apparent and enjoy the sounds of the jungle and pure nature. For this tour a good level of fitness is required. In the afternoon, head out for some whale watching for 2 hours all depending on where the whales are. meals: B / L / D Note: Whale watching is possible from July to October. The order of excursions may vary.

day 11 | Nuquí - Bogotá Morning departure after breakfast by boat to Nuquí and transfer to the airport. Departure by flight to Bogotá (via Medellín). meals: B / - / -

Note: Whale watching is possible from July to October. The order of excursions may vary.

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

12 days - 11 nights

6 colombia, history & archaelogy: BOGOTÁ | SAN AGUSTÍN | POPAYÁN | CARTAGENA day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Check-in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “sta tely homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has been collected over four centuries. The Capilla del Sagrario is located just beside the Cathedral and is a gem of religious architecture and which houses valuable pieces of colonial religious art by Gregorio Vasquez de Arce y Ceballos. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. The central area of the Capitol, known as the Salon Eliptico, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal plazas are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, president on four occasions, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian national anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros to remember those who participated towards the end of the XVII Century in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic. The visit continues with the Museo Botero, a colonial house filled with

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works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Museo del Oro which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is considered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display and it belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Zipaquirá & Guatavita Depart from Bogotá and head north passing the towns of Tocancipá and Gachancipá, travel for approximately 1:30 hours until reaching the legendary Guatavita Lake. The lake is located within the forest reserve of Cacique Guatavita and Cuchilla de Peñas Blancas. In this magical and mystical place, formerly inhabited by the Muisca people, it is possible to observe a great variety of flora and fauna endemic to the high-altitude Andean woodlands. See hummingbirds, hawks, blackbirds flitting between the trees. There is also a great variety of interesting trees with exotic names such as Mano de Oso, Uvos de Monte and Té de Bogotá. The legend of El Dorado came about from Muisca traditions. When the Muisca elected a new cacique or chief he would be accompanied to the lake bathed first in honey and then in gold dust before being launched out into the lake on a raft with offerings of gold and precious stones to later throw them into the depths of the water. This ceremony and act of transformation created the legend known as El Dorado. Visit the town of Guatavita and the

cartagena

zipaquirá bogotá

guatavita

tatacoa desert popayán

neiva san josé de isnos san agustín

flight

road trip

lake of Tominé, striking with its white painted houses, beautiful square and tranquility. Sunday is market day and so there is much more activity in town. After lunch, depart towards Zipaquirá. After a journey of roughly 45 minutes reach the impressive Salt Cathedral, a true achievement of engineering. The name Zipaquirá refers to Zipa, the leader of the Muisca tribe and the chief of these rich salt mines. The excursion will begin by visiting the cathedral in a tunnel that passes the fourteen Stations of the Cross and continues on to the dome. The dome is lit in such a way that it allows one to contemplate the universe and the relationship between man and nature. Later, reach the enormous cross carved into the saline rock and finally the three naves of the Cathedral that represent the birth, life and death of Christ. In the central nave is the main altar, above which is the cross that measures 16m in height and 10m in breadth, made by the Colombian artist Carlos Enrique Rodriguez. This is the largest cross made from salt in the world. Next, we visit the mine where there is an excellent auditorium that can seat up to two hundred people, host film screenings and events such as fashion shows. The trip ends at a mirror of water where it is possible to experience the amazing visual effects of water on carved saline rock. Return to Bogotá. Overnight stay. meals: B /L / Note: Guatavita Lake is closed on Mondays except when Monday is a national holiday, in that case it is closed on Tuesday.

day 4 | Bogotá - Neiva - Tatacoa Desert - San Agustín Transfer to the local airport for flight to Neiva. Arrival at Neiva airport and immediate transfer to the north to visit the town of Villavieja and the Museo Paleontológico. Then, visit the Tatacoa Desert crossing crevices eroded by wind and water. The trip continues 217km to the south

over a paved road to San Agustín. This scenic journey allows enjoying views of the extensive floodplains of the Magdalena River valley from 700masl all the way up to 1730masl and in balmy temperatures of 20ºC just as in San Agustín. After a journey of roughly 6 hours arrive at San Agustin, check into the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 5 | San Agustín - Full Day San Agustín Archaelogical Park & Magdalena Strait Morning visit to San Agustín Archeological Park, World Heritage Site declared by the UNESCO in 1995. See these enormous stone statues up close with your own eyes. The raised plateaus are manmade and have been created specifically for the stone monuments, making where you are treading, holy and sacred ground. You will walk on to the ceremonial Fuente de Lavapatas before heading up the hill to the Lavapatas terrace from which you can enjoy a remarkable view over the surrounding countryside. Also visit the small Museo Arqueológico. After lunch (not included), visit to the wonderful Colombian massif and the source of the Magadalena River, a spectacular rocky gorge that forces the river to pass through only 2.20 meters. Drive back to San Agustín and short visit to the town. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 6 | San Agustín - Full Day Isnos - San Agustín After breakfast, set off for the rural town of Isnos to see further Archaeological Parks such as the Alto de los Ídolos and the Alto de Las Piedras where there are some well-preserved tombs that still show some of the original paintwork and some of the largest stone figures found so far. Moving between these sights gives you the breathtaking view of the Macizo Co-

lombiano and the incredible waterfalls of Salto del Mortiño (180 Mts) and Salto de Bordones (320 Mts). Then, visit La Chaquira, a very special place is in the edge of a river canyon mixing a beautiful geographical site with an archeological site, where is a woman’s figure carved in a large rock. Drive back to San Agustín and short visit to the town. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / NOTE: Alto de los Ídolos Archaeological Park is tempory closed until 31.07.20 and this visit will be replaced by a tour of the city in San Agustín or a visit to the Mirador de Chenguilo or the Obando Museum.

day 7 | San Agustín - Popayán After breakfast, leave on a 6 hours unpaved drive to Popayán, the capital of the department of Cauca. Enjoy the journey surrounded by the Andean scenery of mountains and high-altitude plains. Arrival at Popayán and checkin. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | Popayán - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic center of town founded in 1537, concentrating on Parque Caldas. Around the Parque Caldas are the main religious and government edifices, as well as the city’s original buildings such as the Torre del Reloj, considered one of the symbols of the city, built between 1673 and 1682 and set in 1737. Continue towards the Puente de Humilladero, built in 1873 to facilitate access from the city center to El Callejón (currently barrio Bolívar) up a steep rise, particularly for those pilgrims making the journey on their knees. Visit to the Iglesia de Santo Domingo, a baroque style church designed by the Spanish architect Antonio García and commissioned by the Arboleda family, the Iglesia de San Francisco, considered the most beautiful baroque church in town, and the Panteón de

los Próceres. Visit the Museo de Arte Religioso, which houses an interesting collection of religious art, and the Casa Museo Mosquera, the Settecento style house that belonged to General Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera. Return to hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: An optional excursion to the Silvia market can be offered (only on Tuesdays).

day 9 | Popayán - Cartagena After breakfast, transfer to the local airport for flight to Cartagena (vía Bogotá). Upon arrival, transfer and hotel check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 10 | Cartagena - Half Day Walking Tour in Cartagena Half day visit to the city’s colonial district, starting in Parque Bolívar, which is surrounded by large trees and four fountains with a statue of El Libertador in the center. Around the square, the Museo del Oro, which exhibits preHispanic objects, and the Palace of the Inquisition, recognizable from its baroque entrance door. The meetings of the tribunal took place in the palace, and it housed the prison and torture chambers for the alleged opponents of the Catholic Church. The visit continues to the Santo Domingo church and the cathedral to end in Las Fortificaciones. Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 11 | Cartagena Free day for individual activities. An excursion to the Archipiélago del Rosario is recommended. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 12 | Cartagena - Bogotá Breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

17 days - 16 nights

7 colombia by road: BOGOTÁ | SAN AGUSTÍN | POPAYÁN | CALI | COFFEE TRIANGLE | MEDELLÍN | CARTAGENA | TAyRONA NATIONAL PARK day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Check-in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has been collected over four centuries. The Capilla del Sagrario is located just beside the Cathedral and is a gem of religious architecture and which houses valuable pieces of colonial religious art by Gregorio Vasquez de Arce y Ceballos. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. The central area of the Capitol, known as the Salon Eliptico, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal plazas are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, president on four occasions, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian national anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros, thus named to remember those who participated in one of the first independence movements towards the end of the XVII Century. The visit continues with the Museo

TOUR CIRCUITS

Botero, a colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Museo del Oro which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is considered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display and it belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). Free afternoon for individual activities (we recommend visiting the city’s various museums). Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Neiva Tatacoa Desert - San Agustín In the morning, transfer to the local airport for flight to Neiva. Arrival at Neiva airport and immediate transfer to the north to visit the town of Villavieja and the Paleontological Museum. Then, visit the Tatacoa Desert crossing crevasses eroded by wind and water. The trip continues 217km to the south over a paved road until San Agustín. This scenic journey allows enjoying views of the extensive floodplains of the Magdalena River valley from 700 m.a.m.s.l. all the way up to 1730 m.a.m.s.l. and in balmy temperatures of 20ºC just as in San Agustín. After a journey roughly 6 hours arrive at San Agustin, check into the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | San Agustín - Full Day San Agustín Archaelogical Park and Magdalena Strait Morning visit to San Agustín Archeological Park, World Heritage Site declared by the UNESCO in 1995. See these enormous stone statues up

PARQUE NACIONAL tayrona santa marta cartagena islas del rosario o barú

MEDELLÍN

pereira filandia

cali popayán

tatacoa desert

neiva

san agustín

flight

road trip

bogotá

close with your own eyes; how the each raised plateau is man-made and has been created specifically for the stone monuments, making where you are treading, holy and sacred ground. Walk on to the ceremonial Fuente de Lavapatas before heading up the hill to the Lavapatas terrace from which you can enjoy a remarkable view over the surrounding countryside. Also visit the small Museo Arqueológico. Then visit the wonderful Colombian massif and of the source of the Magadalena River, a spectacular rocky gorge that forces the river to pass through only 2.20 meters. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 5 | San Agustín - Popayán After breakfast, leave on an approximately 5-hour unpaved transfer to Popayán, the capital of the department of Cauca. Enjoy the journey surrounded by the Andean scenery of mountains and high-altitude plains. Upon arrival check-in and. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: An optional excursion to the Silvia market can be offered (only on Tuesdays).

day 6 | Popayán - Half Day City Tour - Cali Half day visit to the historic center of town founded in 1537, concentrating on Parque Caldas. Around the Parque Caldas are the main religious and government edifices, as well as the city’s original buildings such as the Torre del Reloj, considered one of the symbols of the city, built between 1673 and 1682 and set in 1737. Continue towards the Puente de Humilladero, built in 1873 to facilitate access from the city center to El Callejón (currently barrio Bolívar) up a steep rise, particularly for those pilgrims making the journey on their knees. The Morro de Tulcán, Popayán’s main archaeological site, is next and consists of a preColumbian truncated pyramid. Visit the Iglesia de Santo Domingo, a baroque style church designed by the Spanish architect Antonio García and commissioned by the Arboleda family, the Iglesia de San Francisco, considered the most beautiful baroque church in town, and the Panteón de los Próceres. Resting in the pantheon are the remains of some of the most illustrious sons of Popayán, including Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera and the botanist Francisco José de Caldas. Visit the Museo de Arte Religioso, which

houses an interesting collection of religious art, and the Casa Museo Mosquera, the Settecento style house that belonged to General Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera. Then, transfer to Cali, arrival after approximately 3 hours, arrival and checkin. Cali is the third largest city in Colombia. Officially known as Santiago de Cali, this is the capital of the department of Valle del Cauca and is a city that enjoys a warm climate, as well as being known for its exciting salsa and warm hospitality due to its friendly and good-natured citizens. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 7 | Cali - Half Day City Tour Coffee Triangle Half day visit to the most important historic and cultural sights in the city such as the Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura, built in the XIX century and known as being of a creole yet classic design with a capacity for 1200 spectators; the Casa Proartes; the Centro Cultural; the Museo de Oro Calima, known for its fine golden ceremonial ornaments created by the Calima people in pre-Hispanic times; and finally, the viewpoint in Cali’s historical San Antonio district and for a breathtaking view of the city and visit the antique church of the same name. The Iglesia San Antonio houses some well preserved and interesting artwork and wooden sculptures from the Escuela de Quito. The visit continues also to the Iglesia Sebastián de Belalcazar and the Iglesia de la Ermita. Continuing to other interesting sights of the city such as the architectural complex of “la Merced”, the first construction in the city; the Plazoleta de San Francisco, striking with its Mudejar style tower; the Plaza de Caycedo, the city’s main square; La Tertulia Museum; and the monument to Cristo Rey on the Cerro los Cristales. Then, transfer to Pereira. After approximately 3 hours, arrival and check-in in a typical hacienda. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | Pereira - Buenavista San Alberto Plantation and Coffee Processing - Pereira Half day visiting the coffee plantations along the steep hills typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view the green carpet of coffee plants that spread out as far as the horizon interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers. Visit to Hacienda San Alberto one of the coffee estates typical of the re-

gion and located near the town of Buenavista Quindío. The tour begins with an introductory talk about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The route continues through the plantations, appreciating the work of the coffee pickers as well as understanding the famous humid coffee that is characteristic of Colombian coffee. Walk through the coffee plantations and learn about the production system in minute detail, including the harvest, the drying to the sun and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain Range which has been declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO and that offers the perfect climatic conditions for coffee growing. The harvest in Colombia takes around a year, although the main period is between October and May/June. Most of the plantations in Colombia produce Arabica beans which produce a delicate and light tasting coffee which is widely recognized and consumed. The process begins from when the bean is planted and takes approximately 75 days to germination. The seedling is then placed in a plastic bag and placed in partial sunlight until its base dries. Two years after plantation the tree bears its first fruit which is harvested when the bean is red in color and dry and ripe. Once the fruit has been picked, the pulp is stripped away, and the bean is cleaned and dried in the sun (the big haciendas now use a special machinery to strip and dry the beans in a short period of time). The beans are exported or dried in preparation for sale, before being ground up and made ready for human consumption. Free remainder of the afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 9 | Pereira - Valle del Cocora & Filandia - Pereira After breakfast, leave for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the department of Quindío. This makes part of the Parque Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm” (Ceroxylon quincense), the national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60m. Around here a great number of species of birds live, in particular some types of hummingbird and the orejíamarillo or the palm parrot (Ognorhyn-

chus icteroti) which is endangered. Upon arrival in the valley, either hiking or on horseback (not included), head into the cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindío while walking along an ecological pathway which takes one past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshipped this tree. Then you can have a typical lunch (not included) and enjoy some free time here. In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento to enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colorful balconies, the calle real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint. Then, transfer to the traditional village of Filandia to enjoy a city tour that includes the viewpoint, the colonial homes, the Plaza de Bolivar and the coffee shops. Here, enjoy some time soaking up the regional atmosphere and perhaps some local spirits before returning to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 10 | Pereira - Medellín After breakfast, go on an approximately 6-hour transfer to Medellín. Arrival and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 11 | Medellín - Half Day Medellín’s Social Transformation Tour Half day tour to visit those places that best represent the social transformation that has taken place in Medellín. The tour will show the symbolic areas of Medellín from the 1980s, when the city was one of the most dangerous in the world, up to today many projects that fostered the city’s change. Enjoy an exciting tour through the history and present of Medellin and learn more about the transformation of this fascinating metrópolis. 20 years ago, Medellin was one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Back in the early 90s, when the hunt for Pablo Escobar took place, the head of Medellin’s drug cartel was at its peak. Thus, the reign of “El Patrón” came to its end. Until the turn of the millennium the struggles about Escobar’s successor continued, but since 2002 Medellin began to change. Intelligent local politicians started to invest heavily in infrastructure and public education. Today the “City of Eternal Spring” is one of the most innovative metropolises in the world. Visit the barrio San Javier, which used to be one of the most unsafe suburbs

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

of Medellín Located some 7km from the city centre, it is a clear example of the social transformation that has taken place in the last few years. Arrive here by the metrocable car that joins the north-east area with the city centre, which has been life changing to many of the inhabitants of Medellín. Learn more about the city’s transformation after the death of Pablo Escobar and also get to know the innovative transport-system in the poorer neighborhoods at first hand. Explore Medellin’s newest invention: the electric stairways of the district Comuna 13, discover stories about its past by visiting the most important places marked by historical events and see some graffiti that symbolizes a form of expression of the community. Here it is possible to have a beautiful view over the city from the balconies of San Javier. Then, go on to La Plazoleta located in the city centre, in an area that fell into decline in the 1980s and today houses 23 sculptures of Fernando Botero, donated by this famous local artist in year 2000. Since that time, the city has undergone a social and cultural transformation around these works placed in a public space.Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay.meals: B / - / day 12 | Medellín - Cartagena After breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch a flight to Cartagena. Arrival in Cartagena, transfer to the hotel, checkin and overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

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day 13 | Cartagena - Half Day Panoramic City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to Cartagena starting with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convert and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, follow to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center to appreciate local handcraft. Return to the hotel and free remainder of the day for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

day 14 | Cartagena - Full Day Archipiélago Islas del Rosario National Park - Cartagena All day excursion to one of the islands of the Archipiélago del Rosario, located approximately 1 hour (45km) by boat from Cartagena. During the transfer, observe the impressive and beautiful landscapes of the islands with its clear waters and gentle breezes. Upon arrival to one of these islands, you will have free time to enjoy the beach, snorkel and relax. Lunch is served on the island and in the afternoon, return to Cartagena. The Rosario and San Bernardo National Park is located in the Caribbean Sea and is ringed by coral reefs and lapped by clear blue waters and is the habitat for a large variety of marine fauna. Three ecosystems thrive here: coastal lagoons, the mangroves surrounding them, and tropical forest and the average year-round temperature is 24.7 ºC. In addition, this is one of 46 National Parks in Colombia and it was created to protect one of the most important coral reefs bordering the Colombian Caribbean coastline: the Nuestra Señora del Rosario archipelago as well as the islands of Tesoro, Rosario, Barú, Múcura and Maravilla. Covering 120,000 hectares, the park consists of 23 coral islands and islets were formed some 5000 years ago, due to ancient volcanic activity that pushed up the continental shelf and create these coral reefs. During the colonial period, the islands were peopled by African slaves who dedicated their time to fish and gather

mollusks. Nowadays, the islands are a tourist destination for their natural wealth and beaches. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / Notes: This excursion can be offered in different islands and the place where it is taken varies according to the confirmation. On the return trip the boat will be going against the current, so it is possible for some water to splash into the boat. This being said, passengers may get wet. We suggest for you to sit on the right side of the boat.

day 15 | Cartagena - Tayrona National Park After breakfast, four to five-hour transfer to Tayrona National. Arrival and check-in. Rest of the day free to relax. Overnight day. meals: B / - / day 16 | Tayrona National Park Free day to relax on the beach or enjoy individual activities such as mini treks to Pueblito, snorkeling, or rent horses as a means of visiting other beaches. meals: B / - / day 17 | Tayrona National Park Santa Marta - Bogotá After breakfast, 1-hour transfer to Santa Marta airport to take flight to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

colombian journeys TOUR CIRCUITS

101

14 days - 13 nights

8 colombia colonial towns: BOGOTÁ | VILLA DE LEYVA | BARICHARA | MOMPoX | CARTAGENA day 1 | Bogotá Arrival at El Dorado airport in Bogotá with an international flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Check-in. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour with Monserrate Enjoy a half day visit to the historic centre of Bogotá known as La Candelaria. This archaic suburb has great significance in the country´s history due to its cultural heritage and is also a great example of Spanish colonial time architecture. Visit the main square Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great emancipator Simon Bolivar is located. The plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes such as a marketplace, a bullring and it was also the place where many executions were held. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the same spot where the first church was built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artifacts such as textiles and artworks, collection that has been built over four centuries. The Capilla del Sagrario is located just beside the Cathedral and is a gem of religious architecture, it houses valuable pieces of colonial religious art by Gregorio Vasquez de Arce y Ceballos. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it was the first example of republican civil architecture. The central area of the Capitol, known as the Elliptic Hall, is where congress meets and is the actual chamber for politicians and the Senate. In the internal squares are busts of former presidents such as General Tomás Cipriano Mosquera, president over four terms, and Rafael Núñez, the composer of the Colombian National Anthem. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are buildings such as the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros, named after the leaders that participated towards the end of the XVII Century in some of the first movements towards independence from Spain and the formation of the Republic.

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The visit continues with the Botero Museum, a colonial house exhibiting some of Fernando Botero´s works of art and in addition pieces from his own personal collection that includes works by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Gold Museum which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Gold Museum is considered one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been operating since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete renovation making it possible for visitors to enjoy an interactive experience. The Museum belongs to the International Network of Museums (ICOM). End the visit in the Santuario de Monserrate, a symbol of Bogotá. Ride the cable car or funicular up to it, at 500 mts above Bogotá (total of 3140masl). The site offers the incredible panorama of the city on one side and the Andes on the other. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Zipaquira Villa de Leyva Depart from Bogotá and head north, towards Zipaquirá. After a journey of roughly 1.15 hours reach the impressive Salt Cathedral, a true achievement of engineering. The name Zipaquirá refers to Zipa, the leader of the Muisca tribe and the chief of these rich salt mines. The excursion will begin by visiting the cathedral in a tunnel that passes the fourteen Stations of the Cross and continues on to the dome. The dome is lit in such a way that it allows one to contemplate the universe and the relationship between man and nature. Later, reach the enormous cross carved into the saline rock and finally the three naves of the Cathedral that represent the birth, life and death of Christ. In the central nave is the main altar, above which is the cross that measures 16m in height and 10m in breadth, made by the Colombian artist Carlos Enrique Rodriguez. This is the largest cross made from salt in the

cartagena Mompox

bucaramanga barichara bogotá

vuelo

carretera

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world. Next, we visit the mine where there is an excellent auditorium that can seat up to two hundred people, host film screenings and events such as fashion shows. The trip ends at a mirror of water where it is possible to experience the amazing visual effects of water on carved saline rock. Continue on a 2-hour trip to Villa de Leyva in the afternoon. Upon arrival to Villa de Leyva check in at the hotel. Villa de Leyva, one of the area’s most beautiful towns, was founded in 1572 by Hernàn Suàrez de Villalobos who named it after Andrès Dìas Venero de Leyva, the first president of Nueva Granada. In colonial times, Villa de Leyva played a central role in independence developments and the Viceroy and his entourage spent much time here. Today, the city is a colonial jewel with a main square measuring 14.000 m2 surrounded by Spanish style houses, small alleys, cobblestone streets and the XVII century parochial church. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | Villa de Leyva and surroundings Enjoy this colonial jewel visiting its cultural and ecological attractions such as the Colonial Art Museum; the Monastery and Convent del Carmen and the Museum of Maestro Acuña, which exhibits works of this important painter, sculptor and writer, who along with other artists, created the Bachue movement, which sought to recover the roots of our Chibcha ancestors. Then visit The Fossil Museum, founded in 1977 and located 5,5 km away from Villa de Leyva. The museum was built exactly at the place where a kronosaurus, a marine reptile of more than 120 million years and 20 metres in length, was discovered. On the outskirts of the town, there is also “El Infiernito”, a pre-Hispanic Muisca site, where around 30 stone columns known as megaliths are located. It is believed that these columns are about 2,200 years old, and that this space was reserved for the cult of fertility by the phallic shape of the stones, others, on the other hand, affirm that it was used as an astronomical observatory. A few kilometres from Villa de Leyva, not to be missed is the Convento del Santo Ecce Homo founded by the Dominicans in 1620 and considered a most outstanding Spanish legacy. The pavement is made of local stone full of fossils and ammonites, and the chapel has a magnificent golden altarpiece with a small Ecce homo image. Return

to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / -

NOTE: Only the Santo Ecce Homo, El Infiernito, and The Fossil tickets are included.

day 5 | Villa De Leyva - Barichara Depart Villa de Leyva and travel for approximately 5 hours to Barichara. On arrival to Barichara transfer to hotel for check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 6 | Barichara - Half Day City Tour Barichara and Guane This town was declared a National Architectural Monument in 1975 for the well-preserved urban structure and colonial Spanish-style architecture. The houses are expansive and encompass a cloister style design around internal gardens, intricate stonework and clay tiles on the rooftops. The cobblestone streets speak volumes for the culture and the population of this Santanderean town that is known for its cuisine, stonemasonry, weaving, tobacco growing and gathering “hormigas culonas”, large ants (fried up and eaten and considered an aphrodisiac). Pick up at the hotel to start your trip to Guane, a small town located on a tiny plateau beside the hills and alongside the majestic Suarez River. This journey can be made by car or on foot (approximately 2 hours) along the old Camino Real which extends 5km connecting the Guane with the town of Barichara. This ancient pathway was made by the pre-Columbian indigenous and it was paved in stones the German Geo Von Lengerke in 1867. While treading the footsteps of an ancestral culture, appreciate beautiful landscapes, valleys and fossils, besides seeing the way of life of the peasants and their crops. If you do it by car, after 20-minute drive, arrive in Guane. This perfectly preserved colonial village, with a preColumbian past, dating to the XVII century is at an altitude of 1100m. Visit Isaias Duarte Cancino Paleontological and Archaeological Museum to see fossils from the region, various pieces from the Guanes indigenous people, where a mummy of a girl stands out, religious antiquities and objects from different eras. Also, visit the Santa Lucia Church made in stone, the fossil and sabajón stores (typical drink of the region) and the Central Plaza. The tour continues by car to Barichara for a tour on foot or by car in the town centre. The Plaza Principal is elegantly ringed by tall palm trees and leafy foliage, and on the western

edge of the park is the Alcaldia, a truly colonial edifice with large balconies, internal stone columns and the monument to the Hormiga Culona in its central patio. The churches of note are La Inmaculada Concepción and San Lorenzo Mártie which have altars bathed in gold. At the top of the town is the Capilla de Santa Barbara built at the end of the XVIII century and on one side is a huge ceiba tree. This tree was scared to the indigenous Guane people that inhabited these lands prior to the arrival of the Spanish. The Parque para Las Artes Jorge Delgado Sierra is littered with interesting stone sculptures contributed by both local artists and international ones. The Casa Natal de Aquileo Parra, the 11th President of Colombia, is today a small museum and also an elderly peoples’ recreation centre where they can work on handicrafts. There are outstanding viewpoints from which one can enjoy views of the Suarez river valley as well as the town’s streets and architectural offerings. Afterwards, visit the Casa de Arte de Oficios, where local artists display their works such as cotton and fique weavings. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / NOTES: The walk from Barichara to Guane has a moderate difficulty level. The path is mostly descent with short climbs. It starts at 1,300 m.a.s.l. to 1,020 m.a.s.l. Suitable for any type of age. It is recommended up to 75 years old, with good physical and health conditions. Isaías Duarte Cancino Paleontological and Archaeological Museum in Guane is closed on Wednesdays, but the closing day may change without prior notice. On Tuesday in Barichara the churches, chapels, the cemetery and the Arts Park, are closed. We suggest not offering this tour Tuesday

342 hectares. The heat of this region tempered only by a refreshing breeze is ideal for hiking the pathways and trails which lead to various attractions in this rugged and unique terrain. A cable car runs for 6,3km of the canyon over a period of 30 minutes. This is one of the largest and longest cable car rides in the world. Within the park it’s worth taking the time to visit the replica Santander town, the Guane Museum, the Monument to Santaderean culture, the Viewpoint and the Goat and Ostrich park amongst other things. Later continue the journey to Bucaramanga the capital city of Santander, with approximate travel time of 1 hour. Arrival at the hotel and check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 8 | Bucaramanga - Cartagena Today after breakfast, transfer to the airport for flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival at Cartagena reception and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 9 | Cartagena - Mompox Leave Cartagena in the early morning to go on a 6 - 7 hours journey to Mompox (approximately 330 km). On the way, pass the towns of San Juan Nepomuceno; the imposing and majestic Montes de Maria that rise up from the savannah and San Jacinto, a famous town for its wicker artistry as the well-known “Vueltiao” hat. Continuing to Carmen de Bolivar, Plato, Nueva Granada, Santa Ana and arrival to Mompox. Then, after transfer to the hotel and check-in, have some time to relax and freshen up in your hotel and enjoy the wonders of Mompox, a magical place where time has stood still. meals: - / - / -

or Wednesday. Very often some tourist sites

NOTES: Does not include entrance or tour

and workshops in Barichara and Guane

to any of the mentioned towns. There is the

closed without notice. These handle irregular

possibility of taking a ferry in the port of Ma-

opening hours and we cannot guarantee en-

gangue to Mompox. Ferries from Magangué

try to all the mentioned sites.

to Mompox departs at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Time

day 7 | Barichara - Visit to Chicamocha National Park - Bucaramanga Leave Barichara and head towards Bucaramanga making a stopover at the theme park which is part of the Chicamocha National Park approximately 1 hour from Barichara and on the road that leads to Bucaramanga. This is home of the majestic Chicamocha Cayon and in the background runs the river with the same name that created the second largest cayon in the world. The park extends for approximately

schedule might change without previous notice. However, this transfer can not be guaranteed by the ferry seats and will generally be carried out by land.

day 10 | Mompox and surroundings The visit will start in moto-taxi, a local transportation of a motorcycle and cart hybrid that fits 4 to 5 people, among these antiquated streets through the main sights of this town, where it is possible to appreciate and study the colonial architecture, unique due to its blend of mudéjar and baroque styles.

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Mompox are still very much alive. The white tombs are lined up one above the other and form walls of memories around a central chapel. Strolling here in the hours of dusk pass locals seated calmly in front of their homes enjoying the breeze in their rocking chairs. Then, experience of such beauty frozen in time, visit the filigree workshops and observe how craftsmen make such intricate jewellery from threads of silver and gold, a tradition in Mompox that is passed down from generation to generation and is world famous. Then go on a five minutes transfer by moto taxi to the boat launch. Embark a wooden boat with an outboard motor and head off to the Ciénega de Pijino located about 20 minutes away from Mompox. Upon arriving at the Cienega the trip continues on through these wetlands to truly appreciate the wide array of flora and fauna as well as to take a dip in the Magdalena River. Enjoy this encounter in a land so rich in bird life and on the small motorboat you get up close to exotic species such as howler monkeys, birds and iguanas all the while taking in spectacular scenery.

Return to the hotel and overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 11 | Mompox - Cartagena After an early breakfast transfer back to Cartagena (approximately 330 km). After 6-7 hours journey, arrival to Cartagena de Indias. meals: B / - / day 12 | Cartagena - Half Day City Tour Panoramic Start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe Fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa” It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn how the castle

was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then continue on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convert and Church of San Pedro Claver which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, continue to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center where one can appreciate local handcraft. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 13 | Cartagena Free day for individual activities. A full day tour to the Archipiélago del Rosario is recommended. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 14 | Cartagena - Bogotá Breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

Torres del Paine

11 days - 10 nights

9 highlights of colombia: BOGOTÁ | COFFEE REGION | MEDELLÍN | CARTAGENA day 1 | Bogotá Arrival to El Dorado airport in Bogotá on an intercontinental flight. Reception and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: - / - / day 2 | Bogotá - Half Day City Tour After breakfast, half day visit to the historic centre known as La Candelaria. This antiquated barrio is of great architectural and cultural heritage and is made up of old “stately homes” or large Spanish colonial buildings with iron windows, thick and sturdy wooden doors, balconies and internal patios with beautiful yet hidden gardens. Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, where a statue of the great liberator Simon Bolivar is located. This Plaza, originally called the Plaza Mayor, was used for civil and military purposes, as a marketplace, at one time a bullring and a gallows. The Cathedral, on the eastern side of the plaza, is constructed on the remains of the first church built in Bogotá in 1539 and houses an important collection of religious artefacts such as textiles and artwork that has collected over four centuries. The Capitol, built between 1847 and 1926, shows its renaissance and neoclassical influences with its carved stonework and tall columns and, it is the first republican piece of civil architecture. Around the Plaza de Bolivar are the Palacio de Justicia, the Mayor of Bogotá’s offices called the Edificio Liévano, the oldest school in the county called San Bartolome and the Casa de los Comuneros, so called to honour one of the earliest movements for independence from Spain towards the end of the XVII Century. The visit continues with the Museo Botero, a colonial house filled with works of art done by and donated by Fernando Botero in addition to artwork from his own personal collection that includes pieces by Picasso, Renoir, Dalí Matisse, Monet and Giacometti. Next is the Museo del Oro which has a permanent exhibition of some 32,000 pieces of gold, 20,000 stones, ceramics and textiles all precious to the Quimbaya, Calima, Tayrona, Sinu, Muisca, Tolima, Tumaco and Magdalena cultures. The Museo del Oro is considered as one of the most important museums of its type internationally and it has been functioning since 1939. In 2007 it underwent a complete

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overhaul to make this an interactive museum that would awake senses to the objects on display. Free afternoon for individual activities (we recommend visit several museums in the city). Overnight stay. meals: B / - / Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesday.

day 3 | Bogotá - Pereira Buenavista - San Alberto Plantation and Coffee Processing - Pereira Transfer to the airport and flight to Pereira. Arrival, transfer and hotel check-in. Half day visiting the coffee plantations along the steep hills typical of this area. On a secondary pathway view the green carpet of coffee plants that spread out as far as the horizon interrupted only by fincas and heliconia flowers Visit to Hacienda San Alberto one of the coffee estates typical of the region and located near the town of Buenavista Quindío. The tour begins with an introductory talk about coffee, its preparation, toasting, the characteristics of quality and the properties that allows for such a variety of coffees in the world. The route continues through the plantations, appreciating the work of the coffee pickers as well as understanding the famous humid coffee that is characteristic of Colombian coffee. Walk through the coffee plantations and learn about the production system in minute detail, including the harvest, the drying to the sun and treatment in this land of volcanic terrain along the Central Andes Mountain Range which has been declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO and that offers the perfect climatic conditions for coffee growing. Free remainder of the afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 4 | Pereira - Valle del Cocora & Filandia - Pereira After breakfast, leave for the Valle de Cocora which is located in the central mountains of the department of Quindío. This makes part of the Parque Nacional de los Nevados and is the ideal place to marvel at the “Quindian wax palm” (Ceroxylon quincense), the

cartagena

GUATAPÉ

MEDELLÍN manizales

pereira

filandia

bogotá

flight

road trip

national tree of Colombia. This tree can reach a staggering height of 60m. Around here a great number of species of birds live, in particular some types of hummingbird and the orejíamarillo or the palm parrot (Ognorhynchus icteroti) which is endangered. Upon arrival in the valley, either hiking or on horseback (not included), head into the cloud forest to enjoy the biodiversity of flora and fauna. On the return journey, cross the River Quindío while walking along an ecological pathway which takes one past the tallest wax palms in the world. Learn why the indigenous people here worshipped this tree. Then you can have a typical lunch (not included) and enjoy some free time here. In the afternoon, continue 10km towards the traditional town of Salento to enjoy a city tour that visits the Plaza de Bolívar with its colorful balconies, the Calle Real, the handicrafts shops and the Cocora viewpoint. Then, transfer to the traditional village of Filandia to enjoy a city tour that includes the viewpoint, the colonial homes, the Plaza de Bolivar and the coffee shops. Here, enjoy some time soaking up the regional atmosphere and perhaps some local spirits before returning to the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 5 | Pereira - Orchids Farm La Romelia - Medellín After breakfast, transfer to the city of Medellín, which is 6 hours from Pereira. On the route visit Finca Romelia, just outside of La Cabaña - close to Manizales, to observe their wonderful collection of orchids. The owners, José and Maria have dedicated the vast majority of their lives to the agriculture, collection and preservation of orchids (amongst other plants), coupled with the conservation and preservation of the flora and fauna of the region. They have over 6,000 orchids and 832 different species as well as a variety of carnivorous plants, bonsais and have seen 165 different species of wild birds on the grounds. The tour begins with a walk around the grounds of the Finca where visitors

can observe cultivation of avocados and citrus plants and enjoy the native forests of this beautiful part of the coffee region. Guests are then taken around the orchid nursery and farmhouse where the cultivation process is explained as well as an explanation of the Finca’s contribution to preservation projects. Visitors will then have a chance to try some of the produce grown on the farm. Continue towards Medellín. Upon arrival, transfer and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 6 | Medellín - Half Day Medellín’s Social Transformation Tour After breakfast, half day tour to visit those places that best represent the social transformation that has taken place in Medellín. The tour will show the symbolic areas of Medellín from the 1980s, when the city was one of the most dangerous in the world, up to today many projects that fostered the city’s change. Enjoy an exciting tour through the history and present of Medellín and learn more about the transformation of this fascinating metropolis. 20 years ago, Medellín was one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Back in the early 90s, when the hunt for Pablo Escobar took place, the head of Medellín’s drug cartel was at its peak. Thus, the reign of “El Patrón” came to its end. Until the turn of the millennium the struggles about Escobar’s successor continued, but since 2002 Medellín began to change. Intelligent local politicians started to invest heavily in infrastructure and public education. Today the “City of Eternal Spring” is one of the most innovative metropolises in the world. Visit the barrio San Javier, which used to be one of the most unsafe suburbs of Medellín Located some 7km from the city centre, it is a clear example of the social transformation that has taken place in the last few years. Arrive here by the metrocable car that joins the north-east area with the city centre, which has been life changing to many of the inhabitants of Medellín. Learn more about the city’s transformation

after the death of Pablo Escobar and also get to know the innovative transport-system in the poorer neighborhoods at first hand. Explore Medellín’s newest invention: the electric stairways of the district Comuna 13, discover stories about its past by visiting the most important places marked by historical events and see some graffiti that symbolizes a form of expression of the community. Here it is possible to have a beautiful view over the city from the balconies of San Javier. Then, go on to La Plazoleta located in the city centre, in an area that fell into decline in the 1980s and today houses 23 sculptures of Fernando Botero, donated by this famous local artist in year 2000. Since that time, the city has undergone a social and cultural transformation around these works placed in a public space. Back to the hotel. Free afternoon. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 7 | Medellín - Full Day El Peñol Rock and Guatapé - Medellín Leaving Medellín and heading to the town of Guatapé in order to visit the enormous rock. Guatapé is located in the outskirts of Medellín and has a reservoir created by the Colombian government for a hydro-electric dam, in the middle of the reservoir it is the Peñol Rock. The Peñol Rock is possibly a meteorite due to its size. From the top by foot up the stairs if you are full of energy (there are 654 steps to get to the top), the whole Guatapé reservation can be seen, this is an optional activity. Visit the picturesque village of Guatapé where all of the houses are painted in quaint pastel colours. The way to El Peñol takes around 2 hours, during which passengers can appreciate the outstanding landscape of Antioquia. After lunch, visit to the Guatapé reservoir, which tour of 30 minutes is made by boat. Return to Medellín. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / day 8 | Medellín - Cartagena After breakfast, transfer to Medellín airport for departure by direct flight to

Cartagena. Upon arrival, transfer and hotel check-in. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 9 | Cartagena - Half Day Panoramic City Tour Start with a panoramic view of the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Formerly known as the “Popa del Galeon” and famous for resembling the stern of a galleon. Constructed in 1606 this church and monastery are located at a height of 140masl from where one can enjoy 360º views of the city and the sea as well as the port zone, one of the most important in the Caribbean. Continuing to the San Felipe fortress, erected in honor of the poet from Cartagena, Don Luis Carlos López, made famous for his sonnet “A mi ciudad nativa”. It was built on San Lázaro hill to defend the city from pirate attacks. Walk around the fortress and learn about how the castle was constructed, the engineering feats, the tunnels, underground galleries and passageways. Then, go on to the Ciudad Vieja (old city) to visit the Convent and Church of the San Pedro Claver compound which was built in the middle of the XVII century and owes its name to the “apóstol de los esclavos”. Lastly, follow to the handicrafts zone of the Bovedas, a collection of archways built into the city wall of Cartagena and that were used until the end of the 1700s to house armaments and then later as a prison in the XIX century. Nowadays it’s an artisan center to appreciate local handcraft. Free afternoon for individual activities. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 10 | Cartagena Free day for individual activities. A full day tour to the Archipiélago del Rosario is recommended. Overnight stay. meals: B / - / day 10 | Cartagena - Bogotá Breakfast and transfer to the airport for flight to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

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6 days - 5 nights

1 TREKKING IN EL COCUY NATIONAL PARK El Cocuy National Park is located roughly a 10 to 12 hour journey by bus to the north east of Bogotá. This National Park comprises of two parallel chains of mountains with more than 22 snow peaks that extend over an area of approximately 306,000 hectares. Landscapes offer heights ranging from 600m up to 5,339m. Silent summits, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls and cliffs make up the scenery of this trip. Hard working and humble mountain folk continue to live here amidst this area of wild beauty and amazing remote territories. Theirs is a truly beautiful land which is worth being discovered and protected. This is a high altitude paradise for hikers and climbers in Colombia. day 1 | Bogotá - El Cocuy Departure at 8:00 p.m. from Bogotá on a regular or private bus to El Cocuy (10-12 hours from Bogotá). meals: - / - / day 2 | El Cocuy - El Cocuy Viewpoint Arrival at El Cocuy at 2,800 meters above sea level. Check-in and breakfast at the hotel. All hotels here offer basic yet clean and comfortable accommodation (basic amenities, standard rooms with private facilities and hot water). Start with an acclimatization trek to El Cocuy Viewpoint: 3800m Cerro Muhammad. Lunch in the village of El Cocuy. Free afternoon. Dinner and rest at the hotel. meals: B / L / D

day 3 | Pulpito del Diablo Glacier and Pan de Azúcar Peak Breakfast. Departure from El Cocuy in a private vehicle to the entrance of the National Park (1:30 hours). Continue by foot on a 45-minute trek to the Cabañas of the National Park in Valle del Lagunillas. Then, set off from here for 6 to 7-hour trek to the edge of the Pulpito del Diablo Glacier and then the imposing Pan de Azúcar peak which reaches an altitude of 5,000 meters. Return to El Cocuy. Dinner and accommodation. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Laguna Grande de la Sierra After breakfast, departure from El Cocuy in a private vehicle to the entrance of the National Park. Trek to Laguna Grande de la Sierra and arrive at the snow line at the Concave peak. (5000 m). Here you will see the emblematic landscape of the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy. Views from here stretch over peaks and different stone balconies and finally come to rest on the Laguna Grande. At sunset, the spectacle of colours and reflections is unforgettable. Return to El Cocuy. Dinner and accommodation. meals: B / L / D day 5 | Ritacuba Blanco After breakfast, departure from El Cocuy in a private vehicle to the entrance of the National Park. Trek around the trails which lead to the sector of Ritacuba Blanco. Here you will make the ascent to the edge of the Ritacuba Blanco glacier peak. Return to El Cocuy. Dinner and accommodation. meals: B / L / day 6 | Cocuy - Bogotá Return by regular bus or private transfer to Bogotá. meals: B / - / -

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SOME IMPORTANT DETAILS: Currently, camping and overnight stays are prohibited within El Cocuy National Park. Regular buses depart from Bogotá or private transfers can be organized. The average altitude at Sierra Nevada de El Cocuy is 4000 m.a.m.s.l. This tour it is not recommendable for people with cardiac or lung deficiency. It is recommendable to avoid high season (end of December, the beginning of January and Easter Week) as campsite might be busy as well as the rainy season from end of September, October and November. Dry season is December to April and July to August and is the best time to visit the National Park. Even though, during dry month can also rain and/or being very fogy. Temperature can drop below -0ºC during the night. Travelers should bring their own sleeping bag. Camping equipment will be provided by us. One expert guide in the area will be provided each 4 travellers.

4 days - 3 nights

2 EXPEDITION TO LA ALTA GUAJIRA A trip to the extreme northern tip of Colombia between the desert, salt marshes, thorny paths, sand dunes, deserted beaches and stunning seas. It’s not all about the scenery as the other side to La Guajira is above all about the discovery of the indigenous Wayúu culture, its traditions, living and gastronomy. Calm days, peaceful and starry skies are the order of the day...the only thing that rushes is the wind which whistles constantly over the dunes and through the rancherias. La Guajira was of no interest to the Spanish crown due to its climatic conditions, isolation and the valiant advocacy of the Indigenous people here. Alonso de Ojeda was the Conquistador to admire the coast of the peninsula and it became a favourite scenario for pirates such as the Englishman Sir Francis Drake. During this adventure, visit indigenous communities and discover magnificent landscapes. By taking part in this trip, you promote social enterprise, not dependent on extractive mining. Approximately 17 local people benefit from every tour. day 1 | Riohacha - Cabo de La Vela Arrival to Riohacha airport and immediate departure for Cabo de La Vela. On the way you pass through Uribia, the indigenous capital of Colombia, have an explanation of the place and visit an artisan center to admire the patient weaving of beautiful hammocks and bags. The trip continues on a dirt road that runs parallel to the railway used by the trains that transport coal from the mine to the port of Bolívar where it is exported on cargo ships. Beyond the railway, the road goes into the desert sporadically interrupted by cacti and Wayúu housing. Arrival to Cabo de La Vela. Visit the Sacred Hill of the Wayúu Community, the Kamaichi Hill, the Golden Beach and enjoy the sunset at El Faro. Checkin to a rustic but well-kept accommodation. Cabo de La Vela is considered by the Wayúu religion as the road where the souls of the dead begin their journey into the unknown. meals: - / L / D day 2 | Nazareth Departure from Cabo de La Vela towards Alta Guajira, direct to Naza-

reth. Take an unpaved road through San Martin, Puerto Nuevo, Bahía Portete and stop in Pusheo. Lunch. Tour around the Guajiro desert and visit the Macuira National Natural Park. Entrance to the Médano de Aleiwolu, activities with children in Ranchería and visit the craft center. Walk to the dune inside the Macuira. Dinner and accommodation in Nazareth in a hostel with swimming pool. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Punta Gallinas After breakfast, journey towards Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America. From Cabo de La Vela onwards, forget conventional roads and use the hidden paths that only local inhabitants manage to recognize. You will see inhospitable nature and run into herds of goats owned by local herdsmen or find solitary walkers who seem to appear from out of nowhere. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a tour through the dunes of Taroa, which could easily transport you to the Sahara, and get to know the lighthouse that is located further north of South America. Lunch is taken at Alexandra or Luz Mila Lodging. After lunch, afternoon of weaving with artisan women in Bahía Hondita, boat ride to visit the islets, possible sighting of flamingos according to season and sunset at Punta Aguja. Overnight stay in a bed or a hammock, depending on your preference. Punta Gallinas, the northernmost area of the peninsula, where the magic of the wind, the solitude and the color of the sea are hypnotic, offering impressive starry nights that keeps us company in our sleep. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Manaure and Mayapo Riohacha Breakfast and departure to the salt marshes of Manaure, enormous salt pools whose tonalities change from white to deep purple. The strong sun and wind generate evaporation that leaves long white stretches which, through the manual work of the Wayúu community, turn into shiny white hills. Afternoon in a Rancheria with the Wayúu indigenous community, lunch at the Mayapo beaches and sunset at Mayapo. Return to Riohacha. meals: B / L / -

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5 días - 4 noches

3 TREKKING CIUDAD PERDIDA ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK Ciudad Perdida or Teyuna is at the base of Pico Bolívar and Pico Colón within the national park and is surrounded by exuberant nature, a perfect habitat for various bird species. Ciudad Perdida was the most important urban center for the ancient Tayrona culture. The city, a true feat of engineering, was built on a system of terraces connected by stone paths and supported by a canal circuit. At the time, the population was of between 1.400 and 3.000 who lived in circular stone houses with thatched roofs on about 250 terraces. Today’s inhabitants, such as the Kogui, Arhuaca and Wiwa, are descendants of the Tayrona and continue to preserve their traditions. day 1 | Santa Marta Mamey Region Departure from Santa Marta or Tayrona Park in a 4X4 jeep to Machete Pelao. Hike in the Mamey Region with mules to carry the bags. Lunch in a peasant farm in the Vereda of Honduras. Hike to the first Wiwa Indigenous camp on the shores of Buritaca River. Dinner and accommodation in hammock in the Indigenous camp. meals: - / L / D day 2 | Mutanyi - Buritaca River Hike in the valley of Buritaca stopping by the Kogui Village of Mutanyi and the Vereda of Koskunguena with a beautiful panorama over the Sierra Nevada. Crossing of the Buritaca River up to the farm of a Mamo Kogui’s (spiritual head). Lunch, swimming in Buritaca River and a beautiful waterfall. Dinner and accommodation in hammocks in the Mamo Kogui’s farm. meals: B / L / D day 3 | Ciudad Perdida Archaeological Park This spectacular city was built by the Tayrona between 500 and 1.700 A.C. The Ciudad Perdida is considered the nucleus of the Tayrona culture: it probably was the capital of the region. On the banks of the Buritaca river, it extends for 2 km2 between 800 and 1.300 meters above sea level, in the foothill

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of Cerro Correa. The central part consists of a stairway that starts in the river bank and reaches the mountain top branching out to the left and the right towards the numerous terraces and platforms that served to build ceremonial centres, houses and storage. The site has been submitted for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visit of the site, its numerous terraces, ceremonial centres in the middle of the jungle. Lunch on the shores of a waterfall with miraculous properties according to the legend. Return to previous day camp. Dinner and accommodation in hammock in the farm. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Mamey Region Hiking in the Sierra Nevada and return to the Mamey Region. Lunch near Mutanyi. Dinner and accommodation in hammock in the Indigenous camp. meals: B / L / D day 5 | Santa Marta o Parque Tayrona Four-hour trek t to the village of Machete Pelao visiting a magnificent waterfall on the route. Lunch and return to Santa Marta or the Tayrona Park. meals: B / L / -

Approximate trekking hours and kilometres: day 1: El Mamey-Camp 1: 4 hours: 6.

day 2: Camp 1-Camp 3: 8 hours 14.7 km.

day 3: Camp 3-Lost City-Camp 2: 7 hours 6 km.

day 4: Camp 2- Camp 1: 4 hours 9.7 km.

day 5: Camp 1- El Mamey: 4 hours 6.8 km.

5 days - 4 nights

4 COLOMBIAN MASSIF, MAGDALENA RIVER & Puracé NATIONAL NATURAL PARK The Colombian Massif, also called Nudo de Almaguer, is a mountain range covering the departments of Cauca, Huila and Nariño.

and snacks on the road Back to the same rural house of the night before. Dinner and overnight. meals: B / L / D

day 1 | Bogotá - Pitalito San Agustín - Quinchana Meeting at the airport with the tour leader. Flight Bogotá - Pitalito. Transfer to San Agustín. Lunch during the transfer. Arrive to San Agustin and take a Willys Jeep 4x4 to the village of Quinchana (30 km on unpaved road). At 5:00 p.m. arrive to Quinchana; walk around the town and visit some ancient statues carved in stone, very similar to those of San Agustin. Arrival and check in at a rural house. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: - / L / D

day 5 | Páramo de Las Papas Cusiyaco Lagoon - Páramo de Las Papas After breakfast, start a demanding walk to the beautiful Cusiyaco Lagoon, source of the important Caquetá River. Walk through cloud forest and paramo. Return to the same rural house. Lunch during the excursion. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D

day 2 | Quinchana - San Antonio After breakfast, begin a 5-hour trek to San Antonio, a farm in the peak of the Andean mountain, which is surrounded by exotic orchids. Enjoy the river Magdalena along some parts of the trail. Arrival to a rural house and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | San Antonio - Páramo de Las Papas Early in the morning begin a 6 hour walk through a narrow and muddy path surrounded by orchids, vines and foggy forest. Walk along the area called El Chontadural and the steep hill of Aguarisca. Lunch during the excursion. Arrival at the rural lodge which is very near to the Puracé National Park. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Páramo de Las Papas La Magdalena Lake - Páramo de Las Papas After breakfast, head to La Magdalena Lake where the source of the Magdalena River is found in the Puracé National Park. This is a Paramo ecosystem, which means it is very high above sea level, with vegetation adapted to cold weather and a very beautiful landscape. This is a protected area, due to its environmental importance. Lunch

day 6 | Páramo de Las Papas San Antonio Back to San Antonio along the same path of Day 2. Lunch during the excursion. Dinner and overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 7 | San Antonio San Agustín Archaeological Park Pitalito - Bogotá After breakfast transfer to San Agustin Archaeological Park, World Heritage Site declared by the UNESCO in 1995. See these enormous stone statues up close with your own eyes; how each raised plateau is man-made and has been created specifically for the stone monuments, making where you are treading, holy and sacred ground. Return by car to Pitalito. Lunch on the road. Flight back to Bogotá. meals: B / L / INCLUDES: Professional guidance. Local guides. Income and permits in National Parks of Colombia. Accommodation in rural houses. 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners. Entrance to San Agustin Archaeological Park. Travel policy for mountain sports. Horses available for riding. Mules. Transport Bogotá - Quinchana - Bogotá.

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5 days - 4 nights

5 CERROS DE MAVECURE Found out in the great jungle plains of the Inírida region there are three incongruous rock structures known as the Tepuyes which stand out erratically against the scenery. As if superimposed against the Colombian jungle, these granite Tepuyes are named: El Mono, El Pajarito and El Mavecure and for this reason they are referred to as the Cerros de Mavecure. Here, you will have the opportunity to interact with local indigenous communities and learn their traditions and culture. day 1 | Puerto Inírida - Venado Community Arrival in Inírida, lunch and transport to the harbor. Departure in a speedboat to La Ceiba community. On the way, you may see pink and grey river dolphins in the Matraca lagoon, Caño Bocón and Caño Caimán. You will see the Starch and Caranacoa indigenous communities and arrive at the reservation to observe its fascinating project Abejas sin Aguijón (Bees without sting). Overnight in an indigenous hut. meals: - / L / D day 2 | Cerros de Mavecure After breakfast embark for the table-top mountains of Mavecure, Llanito Pájaro and Mono (Tepuy). This is a sacred place for the native people. Continue climbing up the Tepuy to appreciate the view over the landscape of the region. After a cold packed lunch on the trailhead, rest up your aching joints with a bathe in the Caño San Joaquín. Return to the Venado community. Overnight in an indigenous hut. meals: B / L / D

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day 3 | Cerros de Mavecure Remanso Community After breakfast, visit the Remanso community and climb up the Cerro Diablo. After lunch, walk through the savannah of Inírida. Overnight in an indigenous hut. meals: B / L / D day 4 | Cerros de Mavecure MORU After breakfast visit the source of the Orinoco River. Recognize the fluvial star of Inírida and the natural water tributaries of Inirida, Guaviare, Atabapo and Orinoco. Pass by the Amanayen inspection in the department of Vichada. On the way, enjoy bathing in the waters of the Atabapo River and in the Piedra de Maviso on the border with Venezuela. Finally arrive at the MORU Nature Reservation to have lunch. In the afternoon visit the La Primavera community and view the caves that flow into the Lajas Lisas community. Overnight in hammocks at MORU. meals: B / L / D day 5 | Cerros de Mavecure Mateven Jungle - Puerto Inirida After breakfast, hike in the MORU Nature Reserve to see the Mataven Forest. After lunch, you transfer back to the Inírida airport. meals: B / L / -

5 days - 4 nights

6 SAN JOSé DEL GUAVIARE OVERFLIGHT IN CHIRIBIQUETE San José del Guaviare is located on a border between the Eastern Plains and the Amazon rainforest. With an average temperature of 25ºC, the capital of the department of Guaviare is a destination that allows knowing forests, savannas and rivers. Here, you will see strange rock formations in “La ciudad de la piedra” and Cerro Azul, a place where indigenous made pictograms on stones. This natural environment also offers to ecotourism lovers overfly The Chiribiquete National Natural Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2018. It is located in the northwest corner of the Colombian Amazon Basin, between jungle territories of the departments of Caquetá and Guaviare. It is recognized for its extension, mountainous formations, preservation, and little human intervention, which makes it perfect for protecting endangered species and research of new unidentified species. In this place, you will observe natural landscapes of high scenic value because it is one of the richest as it is one of the richest territories in biodiversity worldwide. day 1 | Bogotá - San José del Guaviare Meeting at Los Héroes Shopping Center in Bogotá. Transfer from northern Bogotá to Guaymaral Airport in this same city. There, you will take a plane to José Enrique Gonzales Airport in San José del Guaviare (JSE). Upon arrival, transfer to the National Parks office for a welcome talk and conference on Chiribiquete mountain range. Having all the necessary information and material, the overflight will be made to Chiribiquete mountain range (2 hours of total flight and one hour of overflight over the park). From the air, you will appreciate one of the most interesting natural treasures in the region: the tepuyes or table-top mountains. These are one of the oldest geological formations on the planet dating back more than 1.3 billion years ago. Also, the table-top mountain is made up of quartzite rocks, sandstones, and granites. Its height can exceed 2,000 meters and is characterized by flat surfaces and large vertical walls that give rise to its famous cliffs. Transfer back to the hotel to enjoy dinner and rest. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D

day 2 | San José del Guaviare Ciudad de Piedra Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by 4x4 jeep to Ciudad de Piedra, tunnel sector and Caño Lajas. In Ciudad de Piedra you may see a whimsical nature design that resembles streets and avenues crossed by rocks that it will exalt your imagination. In Los Tuneles sector, you will see rocky outcrop with shapes and positions that seem to defy the laws of physics. Also, you may identify that the rocks form imposing caves and labyrinths because of their shapes and large size. Transfer back to the hotel to enjoy dinner and rest. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 3 | San José del Guaviare Cerro Azul Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by 4x4 jeep to Cerro Azul 47 km from San José del Guaviare. This place is known for an imposing mural of cave paintings over a thousand years old. Upon arrival, you will take a walk of approximately 30 minutes to appreciate a set of red pictograms that indigenous painted on the rocks. Also, you will see the archaeological evidence of pre-Hispanic interactions between different villages of the Amazon and the Orinoquía and the relationship between these towns and the natural environment that have been found there. Then, you will pass through an open cave and ascend until you will reach a panoramic viewpoint that displays the entire jungle. Return to the hotel and dinner. Overnight stay. meals: B / L / D day 4 | San José del Guaviare Bogotá Today, you will have free time to make different activities in San José del Guaviare and its surroundings. You may take a walking tour in the city or go to the port on the Guaviare River to appreciate the views (activities not included in the package). Transfer to the San José del Guaviare Airport (SJE) and return to Bogotá to the starting point at Los Héroes Shopping Center. meals: B / L / Note: By regulation, overflight activity will be allowed during the months of January, June, July, October, December. The dates must be confirmed.

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D E L F I N O

T O U R S

VENEZUELA

You r re lia b l e p a r tn e r fo r i n b o u n d and de st in at ion m a n a g e m e n t s e r v i c e s i n Ve n e z ue la m a r ke t i n g @ d e l f i n o t o u rs . c o m w w w. d e l f i n o t o u rs . c o m

INFORMATION GETTING THERE

BY AIR Colombia offers optimal air connections with Europe, North and South America. Colombian Airlines are Avianca, Latam Airlines, Copa Airlines, Easy Fly, Wingo, Satena and Viva Air. Which offer connections with Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Fort Lauderdale, Washington, Mexico City, Curaçao, Caracas, Aruba, Panama City, San José de Costa Rica, La Habana, Quito, Guayaquil, Lima, Santiago, Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo; Additionally, American Airlines, Spirit, Jet Blue Airways, United Airlines and Delta fly from their respective hubs in the USA. Aerolíneas Argentinas, Copa Airlines, Latam Airlines and Tame fly from South America; Copa Airlines from Central America and Avianca, Iberia, Air France, KLM and Lufthansa from Europe. USEFUL CONTACTS A ir F ranc e P H O N E : +57. 1.650 6002 A DD R E S S : Carrera 9A No 99 - 07. Torre 1. Piso 5, Bogotá. W E B : www.airfrance.com A vianca P H O N E : +57. 1. 401 3434 T O L L F R EE : 018000 953434 A DD R E S S : Calle 26 No 59-15, Bogotá W E B : www.avianca.com A m e rican A irlin e s P H O N E : +57. 1. 745 7646 A DD R E S S : Calle 100 No 18A - 30, Bogotá W E B : www.aa.com C opa A irlin e s P H O N E : +57. 1. 320 9090 A DD R E S S : Carrera 9A con Calle 99-02, Local 108, Edif. City Bank, Bogotá W E B : www.copaair.com I b e ria P H O N E : +57. 1. 508 7515 A DD R E S S : Carrera 19A No. 85-11, Bogotá W E B : www.iberia.com/co L ATA M

+57.1. 745 2020 Carrera 11 con Calle 84 - 09, Local 2. www.latam.com

PHONE:

A DD R E S S : WEB:

L ufthansa P H O N E : +57.1. 296 6333 A DD R E S S : Calle 100 N 8A-49, Torre B, Piso 8 World Trade Center, Bogotá W E B : www.lufthansa.com KLM

+57.1.650 6008 Carrera 9A Nro. 99-07, Torre 1 Piso 5 www.klm.com

PHONE:

A DD R E S S : WEB:

116 information

R yanair - A ir Europa +57.1. 743 3232 A DD R E S S : Calle 92 No. 11 - 51, Local 1 W E B : www.ryanair.com PHONE:

S at e na P H O N E : +57.1. 605 2222 A DD R E S S : Av. El Dorado No. 103 - 08, entrada 1, interior 11 W E B : www.satena.com TA P

+57.1.745 8882 Carrera 7 No 70 - 24, Local 105 www.flytap.com

PHONE:

A DD R E S S : WEB:

W ingo

+57. 1.307 8133 Cra. 103 No. 25F - 12, Bogotá www.wingo.com

PHONE:

A DD R E S S : WEB:

BY LAND Colombia has road connections with Venezuela and Ecuador. From Venezuela, entrance is possible to Cúcuta from San Antonio del Táchira and to Macao from Maracaibo. The least popular entry points are Puerto Carreño, Colombia and Puerto Páez or Puerto Ayacucho in Venezuela. Ecuador is connected from Tulcán to Ipiales in Colombia through the Carretera Panamericana. It is possible to reach Colombia from Brazil via Leticia through crossings of the Tabatinga river. There are also boats from Manaos (about four days) and Iquitos in Perú. BY SEA Colombia has four main ports, three in the Caribbean Sea: Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta, and another one in the Pacific Sea: Buenaventura. Some maritime companies dock in Colombian ports, mostly Cartagena’s, coming from the Gulf of Mexico and different places of Europe. DOCUMENTS AND VISAS To enter Colombia, you need a valid passport. A visa is not required for stays up to 90 days but is required for longer stays and must be requested in the respective Colombian consulate. It is also possible to request a 30 day extension from the DIAN (Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales de Colombia). Check with your embassy if you require a visa to enter Colombia. CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE RATES The unit of Colombian currency is the Colombian Peso. The notes are in denominations of $1.000, $2.000, $5.000, $10.000, $20.000, $50.000 and $100.000; and the coins are $20, $50, $100, $200, $500 and $1.000. The exchange rate fluctuates from day to day and has the U.S. dollar as the official reference rate. Payment is made on the basis of the official daily rate, after discounting commissions and services, which vary between 2 and 3%. We recommend changing only in authorized money exchange bureau or “casas de cambio”, in banks and hotels and never on the street. The USA dollar is the easiest currency to exchange.

| May 1 | May 13 C hristi | June 3 H e art | June 11

Traveler’s checks are rarely used as it is difficult to change them outside of Bogotá. The most convenient brand to use is American Express, but they need to be changed in a bank and these have limited bank hours. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most important tourist destinations where Visa and Master Card can also be used in cash machines or “cajeros automáticos” to withdraw cash.

L abor Day

AIRPORT TAXES A Departure tax of USD$66 is currently levied on international flights. At the moment, international tourist (not resident in Colombia) do have an exemption on this tax.

T h e A ssumption of O ur L a d y

IMMUNIZATION Most immunizations are not necessary to travel to Colombia. Nevertheless, travelers who visit jungle areas and natural parks are recommended to vaccinate against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and tetanus. Yellow fever vaccine is NOT mandatory, the requirement is only for travelers who are traveling to or returning from the following countries; Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Brazil. We suggest this vaccine be applied at least 10 days before traveling the following tourist destinations: La Guajira, Santa Marta, Aracataca, Lost City, Tayrona National Natural Park, Amazonas, Nuquí, Caño Cristales and Cerros de Mavecure. We remind you this vaccine is not suitable for anyone who is HIV positive, pregnant women, adults over 60 or children under 6 months of age. We suggest asking your physician or a specialized center for more detailed information.

C hristmas

TIME All of Colombia is on the same time zone, 5 or 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time depending on the season. ELECTRICITY All of Colombia uses 110 volt electricity with US type flat two pin plugs. It is best to bring an adapter. CLIMATE Colombia is located near the Equator which allows for relatively minor climate variations over the year. Temperatures vary according to altitude creating different climate zones:

T h e A sc e nsion C orpus S acr e d

S aint P e t e r an d S aint P aul I n d e p e n d e nc e Day B attl e of B oyacá

| July 20 | August 7

| October 12 | November 1

| June 29

| August 15

C olumbus Day A ll S aints

| November 11 | December 8

I n d e p e n d e nc e of C artag e na I mmaculat e C onc e ption

| December 25

Colombia is prolific in carnivals, festivals and popular celebrations, all rich in tradition and culture. Main celebrations are: | Beginning of January in Pasto | January in Manizales H ay F e stival | January in Cartagena B arranquilla C arnival | February or March in Barranquilla I nt e rnational F ilm F e stival | February or March in Cartagena I b e ro A m e rican T h e atr e F e stival | March or April in Bogotá, every two years F e stival d e la L e y e n d a V all e nata | April in Valledupar M e d e llín ´ s C olombia M o d a | July in Medellín B ogotá I nt e rnational B ook F air | August in Bogotá F low e r F air | August in Medellín W in d an d K it e f e stival | August in Villa de Leyva N ational B e auty C ont e st | November in Cartagena C ali F air | December in Cali C arnaval d e B lancos y N e gros F e ria d e M anizal e s

INTERNAL TRANSPORTATION El Dorado Airport (Bogotá) is the main international hub and has connections to the most important tourist areas and cities. Most frequent air routes are Cartagena, San Andrés, Santa Marta, Riohacha, Cúcuta, Montería, Medellín, Cali, Pasto, Neiva, Pereira, Armenia, Valledupar and Leticia. Main domestic airlines are Avianca, LAN, Copa Airlines, Satena, Aires, Searca, Easyfly, Viva Air and Wingo.

Warm: Temperatures above 24°C in altitudes lower than 1.000 meters, which comprises 80 % of the territory. Tempered: Temperatures between 17°C and 24°C above 1.000 and 2.000 meters Cold: Temperatures between 12°C and 17°C above 2.000 and 3.000 meters. Páramo (altiplano): Temperatures below12°C with altitudes above3.000 meters.

Colombia has an extensive internal road network which is relatively safe and in good condition. Nevertheless, in some areas, air transport is preferable. Numerous bus connections between the various cities offer night routes.

Altitudes also generate differences in temperature between day and night.

B ritish Embassy P H O N E : +57.1. 326 8300 A DD R E S S : Carrera 9 con Calle 76-49 WEB: www.gov.uk/government/world/organisations/british-embassy-colombia

Clearly, as the altitude increases, so does the difference in climate. There are no variations in the low lands where days and nights are warm. Colombia experiences two seasons: the “dry” season or summer and the “rainy” season or winter. The length of the seasons and the amount of rain vary according to the regions. The Andes, for instance, have two dry and two rainy seasons a year. The main dry season stretches from December to March and July and August are rainy as well. The Llanos have a dry season from December to March and are rainy over the rest of the year. There is no uniform climate in the Amazon which is quite rainy all year round. OFFICIAL HOLIDAYS N ew Y ear ’ s E ve | January 1 T h e T hr e e W is e M e n | January 6 S aint J os e ph | March 19 East e r | March or April D e claration of I n d e p e n d e nc e

| April 19

EMBASSIES IN BOGOTÁ

Embassy of F ranc e P H O N E : +57.1.638 1400 A DD R E S S : Carrera 11 con Calle 93-12 WEB: www.ambafrance-co.org Embassy of I taly P H O N E : +57.1.218 6680 / 218 7206 A DD R E S S : Calle 93B con Carrera 9-92 W E B : http://www.ambbogota.esteri.it Embassy of S pain P H O N E : +57.1.628 3910 A DD R E S S : Calle 92 con Carrera 12 - 68 W E B : www.exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/Bogotá/es/Paginas/inicio.aspx

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S wiss Embassy P H O N E : +57.1.349 7230 A DD R E S S : Carrera 9 con Calle 74 - 08, Edif. Profinanzas W E B : www.eda.admin.ch/bogota Embassy of th e U nit e d S tat e s of A m e rica P H O N E : + 57.1.275 2000 A DD R E S S : Calle 24 Bis con Carrera 48-50 W E B : co.usembassy.gov Embassy of J apan P H O N E : +57.1.317 5001 A DD R E S S : Carrera 7 No. 71 - 21 Torre B Piso 11 W E B : www.colombia.emb-japan.go.jp Embassy of G e rmany P H O N E : +57.1.423 2600 A DD R E S S : Calle 110 No. 9 - 25, Piso 11, Edificio Torre Empresarial Pacific, P.H. W E B : www.bogota.diplo.de

In accordance with provisions set out and required under article 17 of

Law 679 of 2001, Colombian Journeys warns tourists that the exploitation

and sexual abuse of underage persons in the country carries penal and administrative sanctions in terms of the current legislation. G E N E R A L C O O R D I N AT I O N :

Guillermo Villoria T EX T:

Guillermo Villoria, Adrana Gรณmez and Laura Mantilla. P H O T O G R A P H Y:

Files of the hotels G R A P H I C DE S I G N :

Claudia Leal PRINTING:

Zetta Comunicadores

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