Colombia Local Experiences Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Bogotá
This is the start of an exciting journey through a country that has so much diversity and beautiful places it will take your breath away. We will give you a warm welcome at the airport and your private driver will bring you to your centrally located hotel in the capital city of Colombia. Hotel Muisca. (-/-/-)
This is the start of an exciting journey through a country that has so much diversity and beautiful places it will take your breath away. We will give you a warm welcome at the airport and your private driver will bring you to your centrally located hotel in the capital city of Colombia. Hotel Muisca. (-/-/-)
Day 2: City Walking tour Bogotá
Today you will visit the historic downtown of Bogotá “La Candelaria” with its magnificent churches, the government palace and the "Plaza Bolivar.” Furthermore, you will visit the museum of Botero (closed on Tuesdays) where you can marvel at the many great art works of the famous Colombian artist – for example the “Mona Lisa” in exaggerated shape.
Then you will head up the Monserrate hill. The cable car takes you up to the top of Monserrate, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the bustling metropolis of Bogotá. Here you will visit the church which is located on top of the mountain and enjoy an amazing view of the huge capital city. (B/-/-)
Today you will visit the historic downtown of Bogotá “La Candelaria” with its magnificent churches, the government palace and the "Plaza Bolivar.” Furthermore, you will visit the museum of Botero (closed on Tuesdays) where you can marvel at the many great art works of the famous Colombian artist – for example the “Mona Lisa” in exaggerated shape.
Then you will head up the Monserrate hill. The cable car takes you up to the top of Monserrate, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the bustling metropolis of Bogotá. Here you will visit the church which is located on top of the mountain and enjoy an amazing view of the huge capital city. (B/-/-)
Day 3: Biking Tour Bogotá
Today you will take part in the Ciclovia and explore the city of Bogota by bike. The “Ciclovia” takes place on Sundays and holidays in the capital city and about 200km of main roads are closed for everyone who wants to be active with his bike, jogging, on rollerblades, going out with the dog or the whole family! In many parks there are also free aerobic classes where everyone can take part! Enjoy a great local unique experience by being part of Bogotá’s Ciclovia! |
You will also visit Usaquen. This area is Locality number 1 in Bogotá and is located to the northeast of the city. Until 1.777 it was an indigenous village and its inhabitants were displaced to the south due to a local law emitted by the Spaniards. Today is a bohemian area with lots of bars and restaurants, keeping its charm from colonial times. Your visit to this area of the city includes a walking tour around it, visiting the church, main square and main streets. On Sunday mornings there is a nice market to visit where you can find handicrafts and fruits from all over the country.
Day 4: Hacienda Coloma Day trip – Coffee tour
If you want to learn about the fascinating process of growing and producing Colombian coffee, you can do so just about 90 minutes away from Bogota. At Hacienda Coloma you will find much more than a colonial house and beautiful surroundings, you will be able see the entire process of coffee production, with the guidance of a professional grower.
The 60-90 minute tour begins with the coffee plant seed, and then crosses a fully grown plantation of Arabica shade-grown coffee, where among beautiful orchids you will see the many kinds of coffee plants available in Colombia. The most traditional and time-consuming processes, extracting, then washing, drying and hand picking the beans, take place at the beneficiadero. Sun or machine-dried, you will learn how to thresh the outer shell of coffee beans with your own hands. Lastly, you will see the final and critical step that determines coffee quality: roasting, a slow process that gives coffee its characteristic colour, aroma and taste. A warm cup of coffee will be waiting for you at the end of the tour. (B/L/-)
If you want to learn about the fascinating process of growing and producing Colombian coffee, you can do so just about 90 minutes away from Bogota. At Hacienda Coloma you will find much more than a colonial house and beautiful surroundings, you will be able see the entire process of coffee production, with the guidance of a professional grower.
The 60-90 minute tour begins with the coffee plant seed, and then crosses a fully grown plantation of Arabica shade-grown coffee, where among beautiful orchids you will see the many kinds of coffee plants available in Colombia. The most traditional and time-consuming processes, extracting, then washing, drying and hand picking the beans, take place at the beneficiadero. Sun or machine-dried, you will learn how to thresh the outer shell of coffee beans with your own hands. Lastly, you will see the final and critical step that determines coffee quality: roasting, a slow process that gives coffee its characteristic colour, aroma and taste. A warm cup of coffee will be waiting for you at the end of the tour. (B/L/-)
Day 5: Flight to Cartagena & Cartagena Walking Tour (historical centre & Getsemani) + Street food tour
After exploring this beautiful region of Colombia, you will continue your journey to the Caribbean Coast to Cartagena (flight not included) which is one of the main tourist attractions in Colombia, also known as the "Pearl of the Caribbean". It preserves the past and the memories of the struggles of that time. Besides you will experience the attractions, Cartagena offers such as cultural festivals, beautiful beaches, fine dining, a lively nightlife and a significant hotel and tourism infrastructure.
During your walking tour through the old city you will pass the representing streets and squares of the colonial city. Visit the church and the monastery of San Pedro Claver, the palest of inquisition, the gold museum of Zenú (closed on Mondays), the cathedral, the church of Santo Domingo, and the barricade of Santo Domingo, Santiago and San Francisco Javier as well as other famous places. Enjoy strolling through charming, romantic alleys and admire impressive colonial buildings as well as the city wall and the castle of San Felipe de Barajas, which was built during Spanish colonial times. The Inquisition Palace and the historic clock tower also bear memories of old times which make them liven up again in current times. Besides enjoy the nice warm breeze and relax in one of the beautiful natural parks in Cartagena. Cartagena de Indias is an impressive city that holds the secrets of its history in its walls, in the balconies of its buildings and its narrow cobblestone streets.
After exploring this beautiful region of Colombia, you will continue your journey to the Caribbean Coast to Cartagena (flight not included) which is one of the main tourist attractions in Colombia, also known as the "Pearl of the Caribbean". It preserves the past and the memories of the struggles of that time. Besides you will experience the attractions, Cartagena offers such as cultural festivals, beautiful beaches, fine dining, a lively nightlife and a significant hotel and tourism infrastructure.
During your walking tour through the old city you will pass the representing streets and squares of the colonial city. Visit the church and the monastery of San Pedro Claver, the palest of inquisition, the gold museum of Zenú (closed on Mondays), the cathedral, the church of Santo Domingo, and the barricade of Santo Domingo, Santiago and San Francisco Javier as well as other famous places. Enjoy strolling through charming, romantic alleys and admire impressive colonial buildings as well as the city wall and the castle of San Felipe de Barajas, which was built during Spanish colonial times. The Inquisition Palace and the historic clock tower also bear memories of old times which make them liven up again in current times. Besides enjoy the nice warm breeze and relax in one of the beautiful natural parks in Cartagena. Cartagena de Indias is an impressive city that holds the secrets of its history in its walls, in the balconies of its buildings and its narrow cobblestone streets.
Then bring your appetites and an adventurous attitude. We hit the streets to experience food the way Cartageneros do. Whether you are searching a stopover snack or something more substantial, a healthy start or a sweet dessert, Cartagena's streets provide everything! One of the very best ways to gain an insight into the daily lives and culture of the locals is to experience their culinary culture. The 2 hour tour will get you up close and personal with the real Cartagena as the street sellers fill our bellies with their delicacies and warm our hearts with their hospitality.
Now some examples to stimulate your appetite:
Exotic tropical fruits like lulo, granadilla, nispero, papaya and guayabana Fried arepas, papas rellenas, empanadas, kibbeh, buñuelos and carimañolas Pork chicharrones Bollo de mazorca Matrimonio Lemonades and tamarindo juices Agua de coco Peto and avena Raspao and salpicón Cocadas, arequipo and enyucado Coffee and more…! Overnight at Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia. (B/-/-) |
Day 6: Visit to the fishervillage Boquilla including a visit to a local school and the canoe tour in the mangrove forest
In “La Boquilla”, an Afro- Cartagena village of fishermen is where you will go through an ethno- touristic walk, which will allow you to learn more about the history of this fishing village, dating from more than 250 years, with market cultural traditions, with the joy that characterizes the people of the Colombian Caribbean coast. This ethno- touristic tour is a walk through the streets, cobbled and sandy alleys, where important stops will be made, which mark the life of this afro village of fishermen. In the afternoon you will have the chance to enjoy an amazing trip in a wooden canoe with a local captain, through the mangrove natural tunnels (The Love, The Happiness and Remember tunnels) in the Cienaga de Juan Polo Swamp. During this tour the local guide will explain more about the ecosystem of the Mangroves (flora and wildlife). You will also visit a local school. (B/-/-)
In “La Boquilla”, an Afro- Cartagena village of fishermen is where you will go through an ethno- touristic walk, which will allow you to learn more about the history of this fishing village, dating from more than 250 years, with market cultural traditions, with the joy that characterizes the people of the Colombian Caribbean coast. This ethno- touristic tour is a walk through the streets, cobbled and sandy alleys, where important stops will be made, which mark the life of this afro village of fishermen. In the afternoon you will have the chance to enjoy an amazing trip in a wooden canoe with a local captain, through the mangrove natural tunnels (The Love, The Happiness and Remember tunnels) in the Cienaga de Juan Polo Swamp. During this tour the local guide will explain more about the ecosystem of the Mangroves (flora and wildlife). You will also visit a local school. (B/-/-)
Day 7: Cooking class & Salsa or champeta night tour
Gastronomy is an important part of the local culture and the Cartageneros are proud of their Caribbean cuisine. Apart from tasting it, what would be better than learning how to prepare seafood, coconut rice and other specialties of Cartagena´s cuisine? The cooking class takes place in a colonial house in the historical city center or in Getsemaní. The Chef will give us a presentation about the ingredients before he will teach us how to prepare typical dishes. The class takes about two hours. Afterwards, we will eat together. Optional: We can buy the ingredients for the cooking class at the local Bazurto market together.
Gastronomy is an important part of the local culture and the Cartageneros are proud of their Caribbean cuisine. Apart from tasting it, what would be better than learning how to prepare seafood, coconut rice and other specialties of Cartagena´s cuisine? The cooking class takes place in a colonial house in the historical city center or in Getsemaní. The Chef will give us a presentation about the ingredients before he will teach us how to prepare typical dishes. The class takes about two hours. Afterwards, we will eat together. Optional: We can buy the ingredients for the cooking class at the local Bazurto market together.
Then you will enjoy a tour around the Caribbean rhythms. You can choose between Salsa or Champeta tour.
Night Tour: Salsa-Route
Cartagena has a history of Cuban musical and cultural influence. Specialized salsa collectors opened clubs and bars to share with their friends more than 30 years ago. With us you get to visit real living patrimony: El Koreano has been there for more than 40 years; El Safari, for 30; and Joseph Black´s Charanga, at least 15. Travel around Vueltabajero, a living salsa museum and meet expert salsa hosts, dancers, and specialists. We include full transportation provided by TRANS ARRIEROS from and to your hotel, at least 4 hours of nightlife and fun, 3 drinks (non-alcoholic or beers), a salsa speaker, two dancers for you to learn from and enjoy with, and a delicious snack stop.
Night Tour: Champeta-Route
Cartagena has an incredible pop culture, based on the local adaptation of African music. Champeta is the name of a local lusty rhythm that people in Cartagena adore. There is a huge concert almost every weekday! Featuring EL REY DE ROCHA, the most important MEGA SOUND SYSTEM in Cartagena, taking our tour will really show you the move. It includes transportation, drinks, a snack, expert guides and dancers and a gift so you can remember the champeta culture.
¡A journey in body and soul to their energy and passion! (B/L/-)
Night Tour: Salsa-Route
Cartagena has a history of Cuban musical and cultural influence. Specialized salsa collectors opened clubs and bars to share with their friends more than 30 years ago. With us you get to visit real living patrimony: El Koreano has been there for more than 40 years; El Safari, for 30; and Joseph Black´s Charanga, at least 15. Travel around Vueltabajero, a living salsa museum and meet expert salsa hosts, dancers, and specialists. We include full transportation provided by TRANS ARRIEROS from and to your hotel, at least 4 hours of nightlife and fun, 3 drinks (non-alcoholic or beers), a salsa speaker, two dancers for you to learn from and enjoy with, and a delicious snack stop.
Night Tour: Champeta-Route
Cartagena has an incredible pop culture, based on the local adaptation of African music. Champeta is the name of a local lusty rhythm that people in Cartagena adore. There is a huge concert almost every weekday! Featuring EL REY DE ROCHA, the most important MEGA SOUND SYSTEM in Cartagena, taking our tour will really show you the move. It includes transportation, drinks, a snack, expert guides and dancers and a gift so you can remember the champeta culture.
¡A journey in body and soul to their energy and passion! (B/L/-)
Day 8: Transfer Cartagena - Finca La Jorara (shared service)
Today you will continue to Santa Marta. It is the oldest settlement in the Colombian Caribbean it well-preserved its colonial flair. One can truly imagine the pirates wandering through the old streets. This is the perfect spot to learn more about the former Colony and to visit Spanish-style buildings that date back to the times when indigenous people first met European settlers
We will take you to Finca La Jorara , which is only 30 minutes away from Tayrona National Park. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or you can also choose to enjoy all kinds of activities like: rafting over the Palomino river, horseback riding along the coast, rappeling into the marvelous waterfalls and many more activities like: diving, snorkeling, canopy, biking, surfing, tubing and canoeing or to visit an indigenous community. Finca La Jorara is located in a privileged and strategic zone of la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The closest area from the coast to the snow peaks. With an exclusive beach, natural pools, and a stunning view from the mountains to the sea. There are huge plantations of organic exotic fruits, which our guest can enjoy during their stay. The rooms are comfortable and surrounded by impressive nature. (B/-/-)
Today you will continue to Santa Marta. It is the oldest settlement in the Colombian Caribbean it well-preserved its colonial flair. One can truly imagine the pirates wandering through the old streets. This is the perfect spot to learn more about the former Colony and to visit Spanish-style buildings that date back to the times when indigenous people first met European settlers
We will take you to Finca La Jorara , which is only 30 minutes away from Tayrona National Park. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or you can also choose to enjoy all kinds of activities like: rafting over the Palomino river, horseback riding along the coast, rappeling into the marvelous waterfalls and many more activities like: diving, snorkeling, canopy, biking, surfing, tubing and canoeing or to visit an indigenous community. Finca La Jorara is located in a privileged and strategic zone of la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The closest area from the coast to the snow peaks. With an exclusive beach, natural pools, and a stunning view from the mountains to the sea. There are huge plantations of organic exotic fruits, which our guest can enjoy during their stay. The rooms are comfortable and surrounded by impressive nature. (B/-/-)
Day 9: Day Trip Tayrona National Park (Pueblito) with english speaking guide including snorkeling, lunch & entrance fees Tayrona National Park
Hike to el Pueblito (snorkelling included): Today you can enjoy an eco-adventure between mountains, jungle and beaches. During this day hike you will get to know the beauties of the Tayrona National Park. Here you are at a meaningful place. In the shadow of tropical trees, in the middle of the silence of the ruins of terraces, houses, canals, bridges, stairs and architectural buildings you will be a mute witness of the outstanding civilization “Los Tayronas“. (B/L/-).
Day 10: Free day (optional activities: visit indigenous community or tour on river Rio Don Diego)
Today you can explore this beautiful area on your own or book one of the optional tours. (B/-/-)
Visit indigenous communities (from Finca La Jorara) Now you can live a whole day experience that will let you know the ancestral customs and rites of the indigenous communities that inhabiting the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Discover the knowledge of environmental conservation and natural wealth that has this magical place, through ancient communities that consider this mountain the centre of the planet. The journey will be rewarding and you will have a unique perspective on the force that lavishes this great mountain. You can appreciate and enjoy a lush green jungle full of life and marvel at its snowy peaks, with crystalline rivers covered by forests, clean and fresh air. Price per person: 87 USD
Workshop Mochillas (from Finca La Jorara) Experience the culture of Tayrona, where the ancient inhabitants of “La Sierra” left us their ancestral heritage, represented by the indigenous communities of Kogi, Wiwa, Arhuaca and Konkuano. Women sew and decorated their handbags “mochilas” in relation to their dreams, personalities and the gods they believe in, to open their way to the world. During this workshop you can learn how to present your dreams on the bags. Price per person: 39 USD
Tour Rio Don Diego (from Finca La Jorara) Live an amazing adventurous and natural experience at Don Diego River. This experience will allow you to have an intimate close up with nature in its most pure state. Feel the thrill of landscapes seating on a float on the river flowing into the sea, you will see howler monkeys, a variety of birds, butterflies and even the snowy peaks! You will arrive to a virgin beach that has a beautiful landscape. Price per person: 27 USD
Day Trip to Riohacha „Flamengos & Wayuu Culture“(from Finca La Jorara) During this tour at the northern point of Colombia “La Guajira” you can enjoy amazing and diverse landscapes. Furthermore you can watch exotic birds and flamingos. Discover the magic of “La Guajira” and learn more about the culture and the way of living of the indigenous community Wayuu. Price per person: 147 USD
Day 11: Flight to Bogotá (not included) / departure
Today it is time to say goodbye to the beautiful country of Colombia which has surely enchanted you with its diverse, beautiful landscapes and its friendly people. You will return to Santa Marta and will be taken to the airport, where you will take your flight and head back home with a lot of new impressions and experiences that will last a lifetime. (B/-/-)
Note: you can deduct a day at Finca La Jorana if you prefer - or even all of the night there and end in Cartagena.
Hike to el Pueblito (snorkelling included): Today you can enjoy an eco-adventure between mountains, jungle and beaches. During this day hike you will get to know the beauties of the Tayrona National Park. Here you are at a meaningful place. In the shadow of tropical trees, in the middle of the silence of the ruins of terraces, houses, canals, bridges, stairs and architectural buildings you will be a mute witness of the outstanding civilization “Los Tayronas“. (B/L/-).
Day 10: Free day (optional activities: visit indigenous community or tour on river Rio Don Diego)
Today you can explore this beautiful area on your own or book one of the optional tours. (B/-/-)
Visit indigenous communities (from Finca La Jorara) Now you can live a whole day experience that will let you know the ancestral customs and rites of the indigenous communities that inhabiting the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Discover the knowledge of environmental conservation and natural wealth that has this magical place, through ancient communities that consider this mountain the centre of the planet. The journey will be rewarding and you will have a unique perspective on the force that lavishes this great mountain. You can appreciate and enjoy a lush green jungle full of life and marvel at its snowy peaks, with crystalline rivers covered by forests, clean and fresh air. Price per person: 87 USD
Workshop Mochillas (from Finca La Jorara) Experience the culture of Tayrona, where the ancient inhabitants of “La Sierra” left us their ancestral heritage, represented by the indigenous communities of Kogi, Wiwa, Arhuaca and Konkuano. Women sew and decorated their handbags “mochilas” in relation to their dreams, personalities and the gods they believe in, to open their way to the world. During this workshop you can learn how to present your dreams on the bags. Price per person: 39 USD
Tour Rio Don Diego (from Finca La Jorara) Live an amazing adventurous and natural experience at Don Diego River. This experience will allow you to have an intimate close up with nature in its most pure state. Feel the thrill of landscapes seating on a float on the river flowing into the sea, you will see howler monkeys, a variety of birds, butterflies and even the snowy peaks! You will arrive to a virgin beach that has a beautiful landscape. Price per person: 27 USD
Day Trip to Riohacha „Flamengos & Wayuu Culture“(from Finca La Jorara) During this tour at the northern point of Colombia “La Guajira” you can enjoy amazing and diverse landscapes. Furthermore you can watch exotic birds and flamingos. Discover the magic of “La Guajira” and learn more about the culture and the way of living of the indigenous community Wayuu. Price per person: 147 USD
Day 11: Flight to Bogotá (not included) / departure
Today it is time to say goodbye to the beautiful country of Colombia which has surely enchanted you with its diverse, beautiful landscapes and its friendly people. You will return to Santa Marta and will be taken to the airport, where you will take your flight and head back home with a lot of new impressions and experiences that will last a lifetime. (B/-/-)
Note: you can deduct a day at Finca La Jorana if you prefer - or even all of the night there and end in Cartagena.
2017 Price per person double occupancy: US$1909 (minimum of 2 people)
Included:
* Prices are based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling together throughout the whole journey * All transfers, entrance fees and excursions as mentioned in the description * Accommodation as mentioned in the descroption * Local English speaking guides for tours & Spanish speaking drivers for transfers * tour leader free of charge included (except his costs for the national flights) * Meals as mentioned in the description / Hotels always have breakfast included Not Included: * Domestic and International flights & taxes * Optional Tours * Soft and alcoholic drinks * Tips, extras and personal expenses * Meals not mentioned in itinerary * Laundry services, local and international phone calls |
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Rate National Flights: (approximately):
Please note that prices & availability are subject to change and can only be guaranteed with the booking.
* Day 5: Bogotá - Cartagena 08:48-10:20
* Day 11: Santa Marta - Bogotá 15:01-16:26
Price per person: US$ 200
- Mentioned rates might be modified due to currency devaluation
- The mentioned services are subject to availability. Unless indicated differently
Please note that prices & availability are subject to change and can only be guaranteed with the booking.
* Day 5: Bogotá - Cartagena 08:48-10:20
* Day 11: Santa Marta - Bogotá 15:01-16:26
Price per person: US$ 200
- Mentioned rates might be modified due to currency devaluation
- The mentioned services are subject to availability. Unless indicated differently