Colombia Highlights 9 Nights / 10 Days Day 1 Bogota On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel Bogota set at an altitude of 2600m with the high ranges of the Cordillera Mountains lying to its east It is sometimes referred to as the "Athens of the Americas" due to the Bogotanos' reputation for politeness and civility Day 2 Bogota - Villa Leyva (B) Explore the mountaintop neighbourhood of Monserrate;ride the gondola cable car, admire landmarks such as Parque Santander and Plaza Bolivar in La Candelaria, the oldest part of the city; and further sights around the city. Head north to the town of Zipaquirá. Once here, venture into a salt mine located more than 656 feet (200 meters) below the surface and admire this impressive piece of Colombian architecture. Visit two underground cathedrals carved out of salt. Continue on to Villa de Leyva which is one of the most beautiful colonial villages in Colombia. Declared National Monument in 1945, the village has been preserved in it's entirely with cobblestone roads, tiled roofs and whitewashed buildings. Day 3 Villa Leyva (B) Tour around the major sites on the outskirts of Villa de Leyva including the fossil museum, palentology museum and winery (entrance fees would need to be paid direct if you wish to enter) Discover one of the most important paleontology regions in South America. This valley is an ancient ocean floor, home to many dinosaur fossils, as well as thousands of ammonites from the Cretaceous period. Evidence is found everywhere including decorations in floors and buildings. Then visit El Infiernito, a dry area with waterholes, and the Paleontological Museum which displays the most important assortment of fossils in South America. Here we find the most complete Kronosaurus fossil known to date. Continue all the way to El Monasterio, a magnificent structure originally built in 1620 that was visited by Simon Bolivar himself. It has a great collection of religious and colonial art, as well as Muisca Indian displays – all adorned with fossils from the area. Return to Villa the Leyva to relax in its time suspended streets and coffee shops. Day 4 Villa Leyva - Salento (B) Return to Bogota airport and fly to Armenia with Avianca Airlines.This afternoon a visit to the El Ocaso Coffee Farm , then continue through the stunning coffee landscape to Salento.
Day 5 Salento (B,L) Enjoy a hike into the Cocora Valley. Between the slanted green hills of Cocora Valley, the world's tallest palm trees comically protrude out from the Earth. Many colourful birds in this area In Salento, Calle Real has colourful buildings and craft shops so time to explore this afternoon Day 6 Salento - Medellin (B) Depart from the hotel by bus to Medellin . On arrival make your own way by taxi ( own expense) to the hotel The city of Medellin sits in a narrow valley originally inhabited by the Aburras Indians. It is the second largest city in Colombia and is said to be, "One of the most beautiful cities in South America." by experienced travellers who have discovered the magic of Colombia. Medellin's pleasant spring-like climate year round, makes it known as 'La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera' or "City of the Eternal Spring". Medellin is a safe, modern city filled with sophistication and charm from its Spanish heritage. It is known for its cultural diversity, the warmth of its people, the amazing views, the reliable climate, clear blue skies and beautiful sunsets. Day 7 Medellin (B) Morning tour of the city by bike - a delightful way to see the city Medellin by bike tour with English Speaking guide (Including water & snacks)- This bike tour is about 19 km (12 miles) long and most of the route is flat, there is only one challenging climb, the "Cerro Nutibara", that is rewarded with fantastic views. You will not be in a rush at any point of the tour. Use the bicycle lanes and go past some Medellin emblematic spots like the Stadium, the Bare foot Park, Plaza Mayor, Ciudad del Rio or El Poblado. ( alternatively you do not wish to do the tour by bike , it will be arranged by car with driver/guide ) Day 8 Medellin - Cartagena (B) You will be transferred to the airport this morning for Avianca Airlines flight to Cartagena.On arrival transfer to your hotel Cartagena de Indias, a lovely walled city which has preserved its colonial heritage and UNESCO World Heritage site. Cartagena was the major trading port from South America to Spain and saw numerous battles for control as its key position as a trading port. Its captivating streets move to a laid back Caribbean rhythm Afternoon Walking tour of the old city.Gold-crafting Indigenous tribes, Spanish colonialism, pirates and corsairs, African slaves, fortifications, Catholicism and The Inquisition, immigrants, Independence, cholera, drugs, crime, beauty pageants, books, art and movies: Cartagena has led a very interesting life! With such a fascinating and turbulent history, you can bet your arepa e huevo that there are plenty of must-see sites and sights for visitors. This tour has a historical focus and we cover the key sites within Centro Histórico and San Diego. We also cover topics such as the architecture, the art, music, food and culture. Day 9 Cartagena(B) Day at leisure. Possible optional day trip to the Rosario Islands Day 10 Depart Cartagena (B) You will be transferred to the airport |
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Dates & Prices Departures: Daily Prices Per Person NZ$ 2023-4 3 Star 4 star Double Double Jan - Dec $2895 $3095 Single supplement on request 2024 prices subject to change Inclusions: Accommodation in hotel category of your choice – all rooms with private facilities, local service charges & hotel taxes, transfers and tours as specified in the itinerary on a seat in coach basis with local English speaking guides, domestic airfares Bogota-Armenia & Medellin-Cartagena, breakfast daily plus other meals as specified in the itinerary. Exclusions: Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities, airport taxes, excess baggage charges, meals not specified in itinerary. |
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