Classic Colombia Tour: Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena

Arrive at any time. We will pick you up at the airport and drive you to your hotel in Bogotá. Depending on the traffic, the drive from the airport takes around 30-45 minutes.

At the hotel, we will review your itinerary again to ensure everything is clear, help with anything you need, and share practical information about Bogotá and Colombia. Then, depending on your arrival time, you may have some time to explore the city on your own or relax. 

Bogotá is located at 2,600 metres, so we recommend taking it easy during the first couple of days.

Overnight: Bogotá Meal Plan: No meals included

Zipaquira is located about 50km north of Bogota. It will take us approximately 1 hour to reach our destination. The small town of Zipaquira is famous for its salt mine and the Cathedral built inside one of the tunnel networks that was left behind when commercial mining operations stopped.

We will spend about 1.5 to 2 hours inside the Salt Cathedral. First, we will progress through the Stations of the Cross from the entrance to the main dome. At each station, you will see a symbolic representation of events from Jesus Christ’s last journey before his crucifixion. At the end of this walk, we will reach the main dome and the cathedral's three naves, which are connected by a gigantic crack that symbolises the birth and death of Christ.

After our visit to the cathedral, we will begin our journey back to Bogota. We will capture spectacular panoramic views of the city from the top of Cerro de Monserrate; we will also visit some of the most iconic places in Bogota's historic centre. We will have the chance to admire the world's largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold at the Gold Museum and check the artistic work of Fernando Botero, Colombia's most famous painter and sculptor, at the Museo Botero. We will also glimpse the diversity of architectural styles on display in the historic neighbourhood of La Candelaria.

Note: The Gold Museum is closed on Mondays, and the Botero Museum is closed on Tuesdays

Overnight: Bogotá Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Tour to Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, Tour in La Candelaria and Monserrate

We will pick you up from your hotel to start the day tour to the charming town of Choachí, about 90 minutes from Bogotá, where we’ll dive into an authentic coffee experience. We’ll begin with a traditional Colombian lunch at the farm, followed by getting dressed like real coffee pickers, with a poncho, hat, and rubber boots if the weather calls for it, before starting our tour of the coffee farm. There, we’ll learn about organic farming practices, the geography of coffee cultivation in both the region and across the country, and how these sustainable methods contribute to high-quality production. We’ll also see how natural fertilisers are made to nourish and protect the crops, not without first planting our very own coffee tree.

With this foundation, we’ll step into the heart of the experience. Through a series of interactive stations, we’ll explore the world of coffee with all five senses: captivating aromas, rich textures, and complex flavours that each tell a story. Every step, from seed to cup, highlights the richness of Colombia’s coffee ecosystem and its positive impact on our health and the environment.

We’ll wrap up the tour with a talk about the different types of coffee found in the market and how to choose the best quality. At the end of this incredible experience in the Choachí community, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Medellín. Upon arrival, you’ll be comfortably taken to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after your journey.

Overnight: Medellín Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Coffee Farm Visit

In the morning, we will take you to Comuna 13, previously one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Medellin. This area has undergone an impressive transformation and is now considered safe to visit.  We will ride multiple outdoor escalators that help people move through the community more easily. We will also see all the murals and bright graffiti and learn about the meaning and symbolism behind these works of art. You will see for yourself how a community once marked by immense struggle has blossomed into a colourful cultural spot in Medellin.

After visiting Comuna 13, we will go to Santa Elena to visit a local flower farm. Santa Elena is a small town known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. Santa Elena is also famed for its annual flower festival, which showcases the region’s floral beauty and cultural festivities. 

The flower farm you will visit has sprawling grounds, vibrant blooms, and owners ready to welcome you with open arms. Visitors can try traditional Colombian snacks such as arepas or empanadas in the charming main house. Next, learn about the full flower cultivation process and why horticulture matters in this part of Colombia. You will also join a hands-on flower-arranging activity and learn how locals compete to create stunning arrangements for annual parades that draw visitors from around the world. At the end of the day, we will drop you back off at your hotel.

Overnight: Medellín Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Tour to Comuna 13 and Flowers Farm in Santa Elena

We will pick you up from your hotel in Medellín and drive for about 2.5 hours to Guatapé. With its vibrant colours and proximity to the water, Guatapé is a popular vacation spot for Colombians. The main square features a beautiful traditional church and small shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.

Just a few minutes from the city lies El Peñol de Guatapé. This 200-meter-high granite monolith was once revered by indigenous peoples. Workers have built a staircase on the side of the rock, allowing visitors to climb over 600 steps to the top. The ascent is not difficult, but could be challenging for people with knee problems. Once at the top, a picturesque view of the emerald-green water awaits.

In the city, you will also participate in an interactive workshop where you can design and paint your own Zócalo. This workshop lets you unleash your creativity and take home a unique, personal souvenir. Under the guidance of local artisans, you will gain fascinating insights into the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional works of art.

We'll also take a boat trip on the reservoir around Guatapé and El Peñol. Your guide will tell you more about the importance of this body of water, and you'll have the opportunity to watch other tourists and locals enjoying water sports and other activities. A boat trip is a wonderful way to see the area from a different perspective.

In the late afternoon, we will transfer you to your hotel.

Overnight: Medellín Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Tour to Guatapé

After breakfast, we will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival, you’ll dive straight into the flavours of the Caribbean with a guided street‑food tour through the colourful streets of the Old City. As you wander past vibrant plazas and colonial façades, you’ll taste some of Cartagena’s most iconic bites: tropical fruits cut fresh at street stalls, crispy empanadas, stuffed arepas, and traditional carimañolas made from yucca. You’ll also try raspao, a refreshing shaved‑ice treat flavoured with local syrups, and finish with a smooth cup of Colombian coffee.

Throughout the tour, your guide will share the stories behind each dish and reveal how African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences shaped Cartagena’s unique culinary identity. More than a tasting experience, this walk offers an authentic window into daily life—meeting local vendors, discovering hidden corners of the historic centre, and experiencing the city’s culture through its most beloved flavours.

Overnight: Cartagena Meal Plan: Breakfast, Street food

Included activities:   Street-food in Cartagena

In the morning, we will go to La Boquilla, a small fishing village located 7 km north of Cartagena. La Boquilla sits on the northern tip of a narrow peninsula, bordered by the sea on one side and the Ciénaga de Tesca on the other.     

At La Boquilla, we will take a trip in a wooden canoe through the mangrove forest in La Ciénaga de Tesca. During this trip, you will see some native and migratory birds and learn about the flora and other fauna found in this ecosystem. You will learn local fishing techniques like how to cast a net and set crab traps.

After learning to fish in the mangrove forest, we will enjoy a traditional lunch. This is where you will learn more about the locals’ day-to-day lives, their fishing tools and their culture. Lunch will be a delicious seafood meal, popular along Colombia’s Caribbean coast. We will finish this tour after lunch around 2 pm and drop you back off at your hotel in Cartagena.

Overnight: Cartagena Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included activities:   Tour to La Boquilla

You have the day to carry on exploring Cartagena on your own. You can wander around the cobbled streets in the historic city, visit some colonial churches, go to Getsemaní to see its colourful graffiti, and enjoy a great meal at any of the city's excellent and diverse restaurants. 

Overnight: Cartagena Meal Plan: Breakfast

Your adventure in Colombia ends today. At the time required, we will  transfer you to the airport.

Note: Check out before 12 pm

Meal Plan: Breakfast

You can visit Colombia year-round because of its varied geography and climate. The best time for your trip depends on the destinations you want to visit, your preferred activities and your travel dates. Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena each have different climates and weather patterns, so we can advise you based on your planned dates.

Yes. The itinerary works well for couples looking for a private Colombia holiday that combines culture, food, nature, and authentic experiences. Because the trip is private and customisable, we can adapt the pace and experiences to your preferences.

The itinerary can be adapted for families, depending on the children's ages and interests. When planning your trip, your travel expert can suggest suitable activities, accommodation and pacing for your family.

The tour can be adapted to suit different mobility levels and preferred travel pace. However, some experiences involve walking, uneven surfaces, stairs or outdoor activities. Let us know about any mobility requirements when planning your trip so we can adapt the itinerary where possible.

Yes. We can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most other dietary requirements. Please inform us in advance so we can prepare accordingly.

You’ll stay in mid-range and upper mid-range hotels offering comfort, excellent locations, and a touch of local character. Upgrades are available upon request.

Yes. We can discuss and adapt the accommodation based on your preferences, availability, and budget. We can suggest alternatives if you would prefer a different style or level of accommodation.

Yes. All experiences, transfers, and guided visits are fully private, allowing you to travel at your own pace.

Absolutely. This is a tailor-made tour, and we can adjust activities, accommodation, and dietary needs to suit your preferences.

Yes.  We can adjust the number of nights and destinations depending on how much time you have available and what you would like to experience.

Yes. The itinerary can be arranged around your preferred travel dates, subject to availability of accommodation, guides and domestic flights.

Yes. The itinerary can be extended or modified to include other parts of Colombia. Depending on your interests and available time, we can discuss adding destinations before, during or after the Bogotá–Medellín–Cartagena route.

There is a moderate amount of walking during city tours and some experiences. Certain activities, such as exploring Comuna 13, walking around historic centres or visiting Guatapé, may involve hills, stairs or uneven surfaces. We can discuss your preferred activity level when tailoring the itinerary.

Pack light, comfortable clothing and layers suitable for Colombia’s different climates. Bogotá is cooler, while Medellín has a mild climate and Cartagena is hot and humid, so lightweight clothing combined with a light jacket or sweater is useful. Sun protection is essential.

All day tours and transfers included in the itinerary are insured, providing added security and peace of mind during scheduled activities. For complete protection, we strongly recommend arranging suitable international travel insurance for the full duration of your trip.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers.

Before your trip begins, we create a dedicated chat group with our operations team so you can easily reach us before, during, and after your journey. Once in Colombia, our team is available daily to assist with anything you may need. You will also be accompanied by a bilingual local guide who provides cultural insight and on-the-ground support. 

We take special care of our guests, so you always feel supported, safe, and fully immersed in the local experience.

Once you contact us, we can discuss your travel dates, interests and requirements and make any necessary changes to the itinerary. We then prepare your personalised trip details and pricing. Once you are happy with the arrangements, you can confirm your trip with the required deposit.

Colombia has changed significantly over the past decades, and many destinations are now well established for international tourism. As with any destination, travellers should take sensible precautions and follow local advice. Travelling with local guides and pre-arranged private transportation can also make your journey easier and more comfortable.