Colombia Discovery

Colombia Discovery

32 Views
15 Days From

$5921

Colombia Discovery

15 Days Starting in Bogota, Colombia and ending in Cartagena, Colombia

Visiting: Bogota, Valle del Cocora, Pereira, Medellin, Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park, Cartagena

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

1381

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Kosher, Jain, Meat

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5921

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Colombia Discovery" tour and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Colombia. Begin your journey in the bustling capital of Bogota, exploring its historic center, markets, and museums. Discover the underground marvel of the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira before heading to the lush Valle de Cocora and the charming towns of Salento and Filandia. Experience the rich coffee culture in Pereira, then travel to Medellin to admire its innovative urban design and vibrant street art. Continue to the Caribbean coast, visiting the historic city of Santa Marta and the stunning Tayrona National Park. Conclude your adventure in the enchanting port city of Cartagena, with its colonial architecture, lively street food, and cultural experiences. This tour offers a perfect blend of urban exploration, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic centre of Bogota, La Candelaria, and visit the Botero and Gold museums.

  • Visit the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, built 200 meters below ground in a former salt mine.

  • Hike through the wax palm forest in Valle de Cocora and visit the traditional towns of Salento and Filandia.

  • Tour the coffee plantations in Pereira and enjoy a tasting session guided by a master taster.

  • Take the cable car up Cerro Nutibara in Medellin for panoramic views and explore the city's street art.

  • Climb La Piedra del Peñol for views across a huge reservoir and visit the colorful town of Guatape.

  • Explore the exotic coastline of Tayrona National Park and take a boat cruise to Playa Cristal.

  • Discover Cartagena's historic centre, San Felipe Fortress, and enjoy a rum tasting experience.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Fly To Bogota

Location: Bogota, Bogota

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly to Colombia's vibrant capital, Bogota, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, taking some time to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Explore Bogota

Location: Bogota, Bogota

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

The beating heart of Colombia, Bogota is an engaging and enchanting place to explore.

Begin at Paloquemo market, where you’ll get to taste some of the local produce, before

heading to the historic centre, La Candelaria, to admire the grand colonial architecture and impressive cathedral. Visit the Botero and Gold museums then enjoy some local delicacies for lunch. Ride the cable car up to the mountaintop Santuario de Monserrate, where you will enjoy spectacular views over the city.

Day 3: Salt Cathedral

Location: Bogota

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Just outside Bogota is one of Colombia’s most unusual attractions; the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira. Built 200 metres below ground in a former salt mine and beautifully illuminated, this cavernous space is considered an outstanding example of modern Colombian architecture. Return to Bogota and catch your flight to Pereira.

Day 4: Valle Del Cocora

Location: Valle del Cocora

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Head into the Central Mountains and the beautiful landscapes of the Valle de Cocora. Take an easy hike through a wax palm forest to discover the diverse range of flora and fauna that calls it home, including the Quindío wax palm, Colombia’s national tree. Spend the afternoon in the traditional towns of Salento and Filandia, both full of colourful colonial architecture and handicraft shops, including a visit to a basket weaving workshop.

Day 5: Coffee Plantations

Location: Pereira

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Pereira is part of the Colombia's Coffee Axis and the UNESCO-listed Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia. Spend the morning out exploring the landscapes of the coffee estates and pay a visit to a typical hacienda where you'll enjoy an informative tour followed by a tasting session, guided by a master taster.

Day 6: Travel To Medellin

Location: Medellin

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to the airport and fly to the hillside city of Medellin.

Day 7: Discover Medellin

Location: Medellin

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Colombia's second largest city Medellin, where you will spend the day seeing the city's sights, taking the cable car up Cerro Nutibara for panoramic views, admiring the sculptures of Colombian artist Fernando Botero, exploring the pioneering city transport system that links the suburbs to the city centre, and admiring some excellent street art. You will also participate in a musical experience before enjoying a cooking demonstration for lunch.

Day 8: Around Medellin

Location: Medellin

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel out of the city to explore the surrounding region. Stop at La Piedra del Peñol, a towering rock monolith that was once worshipped by the local indigenous community. The 700-step climb to the top is optional, but those who do it will be rewarded with views across a huge reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam built in the 1970s. Continue to the town of Guatape where you'll wander the streets lined with vividly coloured buildings. Return to Medellin.

Day 9: Fly To Santa Marta

Location: Santa Marta

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Medellin and fly to the Caribbean seaside city of Santa Marta. In the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, whose peaks can be seen from the beach, Santa Marta was founded in 1525, making it one of South America's oldest cities. On arrival, you'll explore the beautiful old colonial district before heading out of the city to the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the bays of Rodadero and the fishing village of Taganga.

Day 10: Tayrona National Park

Location: Tayrona National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Explore the exotic coastline of the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona today, winding through tropical forest before arriving at the Sea of the Seven Wave, a natural viewpoint from which to enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Walk a short way along a stretch of golden sand backed by lush rainforest to reach the boat which will take you on a cruise over to Playa Cristal, a beach of extraordinary beauty where you can take a refreshing dip.

Day 11: Travel To Cartagena

Location: Cartagena

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel by road this morning from Santa Marta to the Caribbean port of Cartagena, where the afternoon will be spent exploring the city, its vibrant historic centre, and its tastiest eats on a delicious street food tour.

Day 12: The Jewel Of The Indies

Location: Cartagena

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, your city tour will start with panoramic views over the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa. Continue to San Felipe Fortress and the Convent and Church of San Pedro Claver in the Ciudad Vieja (old city). Browse the the wares of the artisan centre housed in the Bovedas, before a rum tasting experience during which you can try a variety of favourites, followed by a fun salsa lesson before dinner.

Day 13: Visit La Boquilla

Location: Cartagena

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Explore La Boquilla, a steadfast Afro-descendant fishing village preserving its cultural heritage for over two centuries. Immerse yourself in a workshop that connects you with Afro-Colombian drum rhythms through hands-on interaction. Following this experience, indulge in a serene catamaran sunset cruise before dinner in the heart of the walled city.

Day 14-15 Fly Cartagena To Uk

Location: Bogota, Bogota

Meals Included: Breakast

Fly from Cartagena to the UK, arriving home the following day.

What's Included

  • Airport Transfer

    You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel upon arrival in Bogota.

  • Meals

    Meals are included throughout the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours are included for all major attractions such as Paloquemo market, La Candelaria, Botero and Gold museums, Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, Valle Del Cocora, coffee plantations, Medellin, La Piedra del Peñol, Guatape, Santa Marta, Tayrona National Park, Cartagena, and La Boquilla.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels throughout the tour.

  • Internal Flights

    Internal flights between Bogota, Pereira, Medellin, and Santa Marta are included.

  • Transportation

    All transportation within Colombia, including transfers and road travel, is included.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to all included attractions and sites are covered.

  • Activities

    Activities such as a cable car ride, cooking demonstration, musical experience, basket weaving workshop, coffee tasting session, rum tasting experience, salsa lesson, and catamaran sunset cruise are included.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Colombia are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees and any other travel documentation costs are not included.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes flights between major cities such as Bogota, Pereira, Medellin, and Santa Marta, as well as road travel from Santa Marta to Cartagena.

Experiences

Take a Street Food Tour of Cartagena

Stroll through the beautiful streets of Cartagena whilst exploring its excellent array of snacks and delicacies on a street food tour, from exotic tropical fruits to deep-fried los fritos and sweet cocadas.


Learn about 'The World's Best Coffee'

Learn all about one of Colombia's most famous exports, the humble coffee bean, with a visit to an estate in the 'Coffee Triangle', where you'll see the process from bean to cup and taste some of the world's best coffee.


Explore the history & flavours of rum

Savour and appreciate the rich flavours and history of rum. Sample a variety of local versions of this beloved spirit, each with a distinct character, ranging from smooth and mellow to bold and robust, led by knowledgeable experts who will give insight into the production process.


Check out our Q&As

  • What can I expect to see and do in Bogota?

    In Bogota, you will explore the Paloquemo market, taste local produce, visit the historic centre La Candelaria, admire grand colonial architecture and the impressive cathedral, visit the Botero and Gold museums, enjoy local delicacies for lunch, and ride the cable car up to the mountaintop Santuario de Monserrate for spectacular views over the city.

  • What is special about the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira?

    The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira is built 200 meters below ground in a former salt mine and is beautifully illuminated. It is considered an outstanding example of modern Colombian architecture.

  • What activities are included in the Valle Del Cocora visit?

    In Valle Del Cocora, you will take an easy hike through a wax palm forest to discover diverse flora and fauna, including the Quindío wax palm, Colombia's national tree. You will also visit the traditional towns of Salento and Filandia, explore their colorful colonial architecture and handicraft shops, and visit a basket weaving workshop.

  • What will I experience at the coffee plantations in Pereira?

    In Pereira, you will explore the landscapes of the coffee estates, visit a typical hacienda, and enjoy an informative tour followed by a tasting session guided by a master taster.

  • What are the highlights of the Medellin city tour?

    In Medellin, you will see the city's sights, take the cable car up Cerro Nutibara for panoramic views, admire the sculptures of Colombian artist Fernando Botero, explore the pioneering city transport system, admire excellent street art, participate in a musical experience, and enjoy a cooking demonstration for lunch.

  • What can I do around Medellin?

    Around Medellin, you can explore the surrounding region, stop at La Piedra del Peñol, a towering rock monolith, and optionally climb 700 steps to the top for views across a huge reservoir. You will also visit the town of Guatape and wander the streets lined with vividly colored buildings.

  • What will I see in Santa Marta?

    In Santa Marta, you will explore the beautiful old colonial district, visit the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the bays of Rodadero, and the fishing village of Taganga.

  • What activities are included in Tayrona National Park?

    In Tayrona National Park, you will explore the exotic coastline, wind through tropical forest, enjoy the view from the Sea of the Seven Waves, walk along a stretch of golden sand backed by lush rainforest, and take a boat cruise to Playa Cristal, where you can take a refreshing dip.

  • What will I experience in Cartagena?

    In Cartagena, you will explore the city, its vibrant historic centre, and enjoy a delicious street food tour. You will also have panoramic views over the city from the Monasterio and Iglesia de La Popa, visit San Felipe Fortress, the Convent and Church of San Pedro Claver, and the artisan centre in the Bovedas. Additionally, you will have a rum tasting experience and a fun salsa lesson before dinner.

  • What is special about La Boquilla?

    La Boquilla is a steadfast Afro-descendant fishing village that has preserved its cultural heritage for over two centuries. You will participate in a workshop connecting you with Afro-Colombian drum rhythms through hands-on interaction, followed by a serene catamaran sunset cruise before dinner in the heart of the walled city.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

Reviews of this operator

Feefo Rated Customer  

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26-Mar-2020

This was our first tour with you and from start to finish we were guided by Isaac who made sure everything went smoothly. He was laid back - but on the ball - always available and very informative.

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21-Mar-2020

We were hoping this tour would be the holiday of a lifetime and it certainly was. Our guide, Corina, was fantastic and evry country we visited had something special. FANTASTIC

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William  

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12-Nov-2022

A superb trip which ticked all our boxes and covered all the main experiences you would wish for on a trip to Japan! We were looked after by excellent local guides. All of our accommodation was very good. With all meals included we got the chance to experience the local cuisine

Alastair  

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06-Jan-2023

Vietnam at Christmas, Excellent Experience From start to finish Vietnam at Christmas was amazing, The tour group, Local Guide Loc, we must have been blessed as the weather was excellent only one day of rain. Tour Group 11/10 Guide 11/10 Hotels 8/10 Food 8/10 Itineary10/10 Faboulous experience on Christmas in Vietnam

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24-Mar-2020

Great Country. Good range of different things to do and places to see - temples to beaches to wildlife. Hotels ranged from adequate to excellent. Food quality and variety was better than we expected A really good tour guide and our fellow travellers were excellent company. Would recommend despite the impact of Corona Virus cutting out a few later trips but that was beyond anyone's ability to control..

Excellent

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Including UK Flights

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Tuesday - Tuesday

Sep 16, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$10359 $9714

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

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$7147

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 18, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$8759 $8114

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 18, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$8746

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 18, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$10359 $9714

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

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$8372

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$9662 $9017

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

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$9946

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$11236 $10591

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

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$8372

Tuesday - Tuesday

May 05, 2026 - May 19, 2026
$9662 $9017

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Tuesday - Tuesday

May 05, 2026 - May 19, 2026
$9946

Tuesday - Tuesday

May 05, 2026 - May 19, 2026
$11236 $10591

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Tuesday - Tuesday

Sep 15, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$8372

Tuesday - Tuesday

Sep 15, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$9662 $9017

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Tuesday - Tuesday

Sep 15, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$9946

Tuesday - Tuesday

Sep 15, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$11236 $10591

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 17, 2026 - Dec 01, 2026
$8372

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 17, 2026 - Dec 01, 2026
$9662 $9017

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 17, 2026 - Dec 01, 2026
$9946

Tuesday - Tuesday

Nov 17, 2026 - Dec 01, 2026
$11236 $10591

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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