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Essence of Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena in 9 Days

Essence of Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena in 9 Days

Colombia • 9 Days / 08 Nights •

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£1,869/pp
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Photos of the trip

On this trip

What you will do

  1. Two nights in Bogotá
  2. A guided tour of Medellín and Plaza Botero
  3. Three nights in Cartagena on the Caribbean coast
  4. A guided tour of colonial Cartagena
  5. Private airport transfers throughout
  6. Both internal flights included

Dates and prices

When do you want to go?

  • Return flights
  • 9 Days / 08 Nights

Not included: travel insurance, tips and optional trips. See everything the price covers

Your stay

Where you stay

Ibis Bogotá Museo , 3-star

3-star hotel in Bogotá, or similar.

Medellín

Poblado Alejandría , 3-star

3-star hotel in Medellín, or similar.

Bahía Cartagena hotel , 3-star

3-star hotel in Cartagena, or similar.

Itinerary

Day by day

Day 1 Arrival Bogotá

Arrive at El Dorado International Airport (BOG), where a private transfer will take you to your hotel. Once settled, take the rest of the day to relax and start soaking in the unique atmosphere of Colombia's capital, a city where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

Day 2 Bogotá

Wake up to breakfast in the hotel. Enjoy a free day to explore Bogotá at your own pace. Take this time to relax, experience the city's atmosphere, or join the optional tour to complement your stay (not included). It's the perfect opportunity to discover more of Colombia's vibrant capital in your own way. Bogotá: Private City Tour (Min 2 pax, hotel pick-up at 9:00 am, duration 4hrs) Discover Bogotá in a half-day walking tour that reveals the essence of Colombia's capital. Explore the vibrant La Candelaria district, with its colorful colonial streets and welcoming atmosphere. Visit the Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by some of the city's most important historical landmarks. The tour continues with a visit to the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, both offering a fascinating glimpse into Colombia's rich artistic and cultural heritage.

Day 3 Bogotá - Medellín

After breakfast, check out of your hotel. At the scheduled time, a private transfer will take you from your hotel to El Dorado International Airport (BOG) for your departure flight to Medellin, which we book for you. Upon arrival at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), a private transfer will be waiting to take you comfortably to your hotel in the city. At the hotel, you will receive assistance with your luggage and check-in, ensuring a smooth and welcoming start to your stay in Medellín.

Day 4 Medellín: City Tour

Wake up to breakfast in the hotel. Discover Medellín on a 4-hour city tour that will take you through the most iconic landmarks of the "City of Eternal Spring," immersing you in its history, traditions, and vibrant culture. Begin in the historic downtown area, walking along lively streets and visiting the famous Plaza Botero, an open-air museum featuring the renowned sculptures of master Fernando Botero, vivid symbols of Medellín's art and identity. Along the way, admire other remarkable architectural highlights that reflect the city's transformation and charm. Next, board the Metro Cable and enjoy stunning panoramic views as you ascend to Santo Domingo, a district offering an exceptional perspective of Medellin from above. Experience a city of contrasts, creativity, and resilience, proof of how innovation and community spirit have shaped one of Colombia's most inspiring destinations.

Day 5 Medellín

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Medellín at your own pace. Stroll through its charming neighborhoods, visit local cafés, or shop for unique handicrafts and Colombian coffee. You may also take this opportunity to join an optional experience (not included), such as a salsa dancing class, where you'll learn the rhythm and moves that reflect the joyful spirit of Colombian culture. Dance Experience: Private Salsa Class (Min 2 pax, hotel pick-up at 8:00 am, duration 4hrs) Immerse yourself in the vibrant essence of Colombian culture with our Private Salsa Class, designed to take you straight to the heart of the rhythm and joy that define Colombia. Guided by a professional instructor, you'll learn the fundamental steps of salsa and other Colombian rhythms in a session customized to your level, whether you're a complete beginner or already have some experience on the dance floor. Let yourself be carried away by the infectious energy and flavor of Colombian music in this personalized experience, perfect for discovering something truly authentic and for showing off your new dance moves!

Day 6 Medellín - Cartagena

After breakfast, check out of your hotel. At the scheduled time, a private transfer will take you from your hotel to José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) for your departure flight to Cartagena, which we book for you. Upon arrival at Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), our representative will be waiting to assist you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and begin soaking in the warm Caribbean atmosphere of this enchanting city, a place where history, culture, and the sea blend perfectly.

Day 7 Cartagena: City Tour

Wake up to breakfast in the hotel. Discover the fascinating history and charm of Cartagena de Indias on a guided tour aboard a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Your expert guide will share stories about the city's colonial past and insights into local daily life. We'll begin with a panoramic drive along Castillo Grande Bay, admiring its elegant Moorish and Republican-style architecture. Next, we'll visit the Convent of La Popa, perched atop the hill, where you'll enjoy the best panoramic views of Cartagena. Continue to the impressive San Felipe de Barajas Fortress, the greatest example of colonial military engineering in South America. Afterward, we'll stop at Las Bóvedas, a historic site now home to colorful handicraft shops, perfect for local souvenirs. Finally, enjoy a guided walking tour through the Walled City, exploring its plazas, cobblestone streets, and beautiful colonial buildings that tell the story of this UNESCO World Heritage gem. An unmissable experience to truly connect with the soul of Cartagena!

Day 8 Cartagena

Breakfast at the hotel. Take this day to relax and enjoy Cartagena at your own rhythm. Stroll through its picturesque streets, feel the vibrant Caribbean atmosphere, or unwind at your hotel. If you wish, you may spend the day at one of the beautiful nearby beaches or join an optional excursion (not included) to explore more of this captivating destination. Whatever you choose, enjoy the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation that makes Cartagena truly unique. Emerald Tour: (Min 2 pax, hotel pick-up at 8:00 am, duration 4hrs, operates daily except Sunday) Embark on a fascinating journey into the world of Colombian emeralds and uncover the secrets behind one of the country's most treasured gems. Begin your experience at the Emerald Museum, where history, geology, and craftsmanship come together to tell the story of these captivating green stones, from their formation deep within the earth to their transformation into dazzling jewels. Afterward, continue to Cartagena's historic center, where a renowned jewelry house will welcome you to admire an exclusive collection of emerald creations. You'll have the opportunity to appreciate the artistry behind each piece, and, if you wish, take home a sparkling reminder of Colombia's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Day 9 Cartagena Departure

After breakfast, at the scheduled time, transfer from your hotel to Rafael Núñez International Airport for your departure flight. We hope you enjoyed your stay in Cartagena and take with you unforgettable memories of Colombia's Caribbean charm.

In the price

What the price covers

  • Return flights from the UK, into Bogotá and home from Cartagena, with a checked bag each way
  • Internal flights from Bogotá to Medellín and from Medellín to Cartagena, with a checked bag
  • Spanish and English-speaking local guide on Days 4 and 7
  • 8 nights' accommodation
  • 8 Breakfasts
  • Private transfers from and to El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
  • Private transfers from and to José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)
  • Private transfers from and to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG)
  • Shared transportation during the tours
  • All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Medellin city tour (Day 4); Cartagena city tour (Day 7)

The detail

Good to know

The full trip description

This holiday covers three Colombian cities, with the flights between them booked by us. It starts with two nights in Bogotá, with a free day in the capital. You then fly to Medellín for three nights. A four-hour city tour there starts in the old centre and Plaza Botero. Cartagena is next, also for three nights. A guided tour covers the bay of Castillo Grande and the colonial city. Each city has free time for optional trips, which are paid locally. The tours are shared, with a Spanish and English-speaking guide. Private transfers meet every flight. Eight nights in 3-star hotels and breakfast daily are included. You can start on most days.

Not included

  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Gratuities
  • Optional Activities / Highlights
  • Meals and drinks not specifically stated as included

Visa fees. Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise). Optional tours. Any visit not mentioned in the programme. Porterage and gratuities. Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the programme. Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any). Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc

More information

Price per person sharing a double room in the standard hotel category. Other hotel categories are available at a supplement. Single rooms on request. The land arrangements are confirmed by the supplier, TUI Musement Colombia, within two working days of booking. The two internal flights are booked by us and included. Flights are priced into Bogotá and home from Cartagena. Bogotá is at about 2,600 metres. Check the entry rules for your passport before booking.

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from £1,869/pp