Explore a country of great diversity, culture, natural beauty, and passionate people. Admire the richness of ancient times at the newly-renovated Gold Museum in Bogota, walk the quaint streets of Colonial Cartagena, and soak the sun in the spectacular Tayrona Park in Santa Marta.
Daily arrivals in Bogota, all Year-Round
A Journey by Private Car & Guide
7 Days / 6 Nights
Highlights
- Explore the historic La Candelaria district in Bogotá, with its colonial streets, museums, and vibrant plazas
- Take in sweeping views over Bogotá from Monserrate, set high above the city in the Andes
- Wander through Cartagena’s walled city, where colorful buildings, balconies, and lively squares create a rich atmosphere
- Enjoy evenings in Cartagena’s old town with local music, dining, and a warm Caribbean ambiance
- Relax on the white-sand beaches of the Rosario Islands, surrounded by clear turquoise waters
- Swim, snorkel, or unwind in a quiet island setting just off the coast
- Discover the coastal charm of Santa Marta, with its easy pace and access to both sea and mountains
- Explore Tayrona National Park, where jungle-covered hills meet secluded beaches and scenic trails
- Walk through tropical forest paths leading to hidden coves and natural viewpoints
Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Bogota
Arrival at El Dorado International Airport. A guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel.
Day 2 - Bogota
Breakfast and transfer to the colonial section of La Candelaria and short stops for photographs at Plaza de Bolivar, the main square of Bogota. Surrounding the square, you will find the Cathedral, the Palace of Congress, the Palacio Cardenalicio (the Cardinal’s Palace), the colonial church of El Sagrario, the House of Independence, the Palace of Justice and City Hall. The next stop is the famous Gold Museum, repository of the world’s greatest collection of pre-Hispanic Indian gold crafts. Lastly, a visit to the FERNANDO BOTERO Museum, which houses many of the paintings and sculptures of this famous contemporary Colombian artist. Following the museum visit, a sightseeing drive through the northern residential area of the city and, across a fertile plateau, to the town of Cajicá, with a short photo-op at the main square. After lunch on to the wondrous underground cathedral carved in a salt mine near the town of Zipaquirá. Return to Bogota.(b,l)
NOTE: The Gold Museum closes Mondays and the Botero Museum Tuesdays.
Day 3 - Bogota / Cartagena
Morning: Early breakfast and transfer to the airport for the flight to Cartagena; your guide will be there to meet you and to take you to your hotel.
Afternoon: Drive from the hotel to the Convent of La Popa, built in the early 17th century on La Popa Hill, from which you can take in a beautiful view of the city and the bay. Continuation of the tour with a stopover at San Felipe Fortress, erected in the 17th century to protect the city. After a close look at the construction technique, a jaunt to the walled colonial city and time off at the handicraft stores of Las Bovedas. From there a walk along the quaint streets for a close-up view of the old homes and beautiful balconies, and a visit to the Convent of San Pedro Claver. After the convent, return to the hotel for the night. (b)
Day 4 - Cartagena / Rosario Islands / Cartagena
Breakfast and morning transfer to the tourist pier and departure by motorboat to the beautiful islands of El Rosario, located 1 1/2 hrs south of the Bay of Cartagena. These islands, home to a very important complex of coral banks populated by a great variety of reef fauna, have been declared a National Natural Park. Their white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters complement the impressive scenery. Then, off to swim, snorkel, or sack out on a hammock. After lunch, return to Cartagena. (b,l)
Day 5 - Cartagena / Santa Marta
Breakfast and a 3-4 – hour transfer to Santa Marta, with a view of El Totumo Volcano along the way. Transfer to your hotel and check-in. Free afternoon and overnight. (b)
Day 6 - Santa Marta / Tayrona National Park / Santa Marta
Breakfast and departure by private transportation from the hotel for a 45-minute drive along the Pan-American Highway to the Bay of Cañaverales, in Tayrona National Natural Park. From here, a one-hour trek through jungles and beaches to Arrecifes, a place of extraordinary beauty, white sand and perfect waves for a refreshing swim. Lunch included and return to Santa Marta in the afternoon. (b,l)
Day 7 - Santa Marta / Bogota or Cartagena / Depart Colombia
Breakfast and, later in the day, transfer to the airport for the flight to your next destination. (b)